Calling the ban on Chinese apps a "digital strike", Union Minister Communications Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad on Thursday said India wants peace, but if someone casts an evil eye, the country is capable of giving a befitting reply.

Hailing the "strong" leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he asserted, if our country has lost 20 soldiers, the toll is double on the Chinese side.

"Now you can hear about only two 'Cs' - Coronaviris and China. We believe in peace and solve problems through discussion, but if somebody casts an evil eye on India, we will give a befitting reply...If our 20 jawans have sacrificed their lives, then the toll is double on the Chinese side.

"You all must have noticed that they have not come out with any figure," Prasad, also the Union electronics and information technology minister, said addressing a virtual rally for the people of Bengal.

Recalling how India had responded after terror attacks in the recent past, Prasad, said, You all must remember how we had retaliated after Uri and Pulwama (terror strikes). When our PM is saying that the sacrifice of our jawans won't go in vain, it has a meaning. Our government has the will to deliver."

Insisting that India carried out a "digital strike" to protect the data of countrymen, Prasad sought to know why the TMC was opposing the ban on Chinese apps.

"We are witnessing a strange trend in Bengal; the ruling TMC had earlier asked why we were not banning the apps, now they want to know why we are banning the apps. This is strange, why can't they stand with the government at the time of crisis," he said.

Trinamool Congress MP Nusrat Jahan had on Wednesday termed the Centre's decision to ban 59 Chinese apps including TikTok an "eyewash and an impulsive decision", and said the Union government should substitute them with Indian apps as the livelihood of many people associated with these applications had been affected.

He also attacked the CPI-M over its "silence" on the Sino-Indian border confrontation.

"I am surprised why the CPI-M has not criticised China. Is it the same CPI-M that it was in 1962?" he said.

Calling the ban on Chinese apps a "digital strike", Union Minister Communications Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad on Thursday said India wants peace, but if someone casts an evil eye, the country is capable of giving a befitting reply.

Calling the ban on Chinese apps a "digital strike", Union Minister Communications Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad on Thursday said India wants peace, but if someone casts an evil eye, the country is capable of giving a befitting reply. Hailing the "strong" leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he asserted, if our country has lost 20 soldiers, the toll is double on the Chinese side. "Now you can hear about only two 'Cs' - Coronaviris and China. We believe in peace and solve problems through discussion, but if somebody casts an evil eye on India, we will give a befitting reply...If our 20 jawans have sacrificed their lives, then the toll is double on the Chinese side. "You all must have noticed that they have not come out with any figure," Prasad, also the Union electronics and information technology minister, said addressing a virtual rally for the people of Bengal. Recalling how India had responded after terror attacks in the recent past, Prasad, said, You all must remember how we had retaliated after Uri and Pulwama (terror strikes). When our PM is saying that the sacrifice of our jawans won't go in vain, it has a meaning. Our government has the will to deliver." Insisting that India carried out a "digital strike" to protect the data of countrymen, Prasad sought to know why the TMC was opposing the ban on Chinese apps. "We are witnessing a strange trend in Bengal; the ruling TMC had earlier asked why we were not banning the apps, now they want to know why we are banning the apps. This is strange, why can't they stand with the government at the time of crisis," he said. Trinamool Congress MP Nusrat Jahan had on Wednesday termed the Centre's decision to ban 59 Chinese apps including TikTok an "eyewash and an impulsive decision", and said the Union government should substitute them with Indian apps as the livelihood of many people associated with these applications had been affected. He also attacked the CPI-M over its "silence" on the Sino-Indian border confrontation. "I am surprised why the CPI-M has not criticised China. Is it the same CPI-M that it was in 1962?" he said.

Strange trend in Bengal: Ravi Shankar Prasad questions TMC over app ban

Payments on Unified Payments Interface (UPI) in June hit an all-time high of 1.34 billion in terms of volume with transactions worth nearly Rs 2.62 lakh crore, as per National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) data.

On a month-on-month basis, it registered 8.94 per cent growth from 1.23 billion in May.

UPI payments had fallen to 999.57 million in terms of volume with transactions worth Rs 1.51 lakh crore in April, following the coronavirus-induced lockdown that halted almost all services, except essentials.

Online payments slowly gathered pace from May&nbsp;with staggered opening of the economy. In May, the number of UPI transactions stood at 1.23 billion valued at Rs 2.18 lakh crore, showed the NPCI data.

In June, the volume in terms of transactions touched the highest level so far, as per the data available, with the first set of data dating back to April 2016 -- with nil transaction.

The number of transactions through all the available means on NPCI platform&nbsp;was in upwards of 1 billion since October 2019 before dipping to 999.57 million in April this year. However, it soon regained the 1 billion-plus transaction volume in May.

NPCI was incorporated in 2008 as an umbrella organisation for operating retail payments and settlement systems in India. It has created a robust payment and settlement infrastructure in the country.

It facilitates payments through a bouquet of retail payment products such as RuPay Card, Immediate Payment Service (IMPS), UPI, Bharat Interface for Money (BHIM), BHIM Aadhaar, National Electronic Toll Collection (NETC Fastag) and Bharat BillPay.

NPCI also launched UPI 2.0 to offer more secure and comprehensive services to consumers and merchants.

Payments on Unified Payments Interface (UPI) in June hit an all-time high of 1.34 billion in terms of volume with transactions worth nearly Rs 2.62 lakh crore, as per National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) data.

Payments on Unified Payments Interface (UPI) in June hit an all-time high of 1.34 billion in terms of volume with transactions worth nearly Rs 2.62 lakh crore, as per National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) data. On a month-on-month basis, it registered 8.94 per cent growth from 1.23 billion in May. UPI payments had fallen to 999.57 million in terms of volume with transactions worth Rs 1.51 lakh crore in April, following the coronavirus-induced lockdown that halted almost all services, except essentials. Online payments slowly gathered pace from May with staggered opening of the economy. In May, the number of UPI transactions stood at 1.23 billion valued at Rs 2.18 lakh crore, showed the NPCI data. In June, the volume in terms of transactions touched the highest level so far, as per the data available, with the first set of data dating back to April 2016 -- with nil transaction. The number of transactions through all the available means on NPCI platform was in upwards of 1 billion since October 2019 before dipping to 999.57 million in April this year. However, it soon regained the 1 billion-plus transaction volume in May. NPCI was incorporated in 2008 as an umbrella organisation for operating retail payments and settlement systems in India. It has created a robust payment and settlement infrastructure in the country. It facilitates payments through a bouquet of retail payment products such as RuPay Card, Immediate Payment Service (IMPS), UPI, Bharat Interface for Money (BHIM), BHIM Aadhaar, National Electronic Toll Collection (NETC Fastag) and Bharat BillPay. NPCI also launched UPI 2.0 to offer more secure and comprehensive services to consumers and merchants.

UPI payments in India hit all-time high of 1.34 billion transactions in June

Former Karnataka Chief Minister and JD(S) leader H D Kumaraswamy on Thursday slammed the BJP government in the state for its failure to protect the citizens from coronavirus.

In a series of tweets, Kumaraswamy hit out at chief minister B S Yediyurappa and ministers for wasting their time in issuing contradictory statements instead of taking lessons from the Kerala government.

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It is shocking to see COVID-19 patients being turned down by the hospitals due to lack of beds. The government has failed in its duty to protect the citizens. 
1/5
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"It is shocking to see COVID-19 patients being turned down by the hospitals due to lack of beds. The government has failed in its duty to protect the citizens," Kumaraswamy tweeted.

He also said for the past three months Yediyurappa and his cabinet colleagues have been talking even as the escalated COVID-19 numbers stare them in the face.

Stating that Karnataka suffers due to lack of coordination in the cabinet, Kumaraswamy cautioned, "If the government doesn't get its act together, the day is not far when COVID-19 patients would be condemned to die on the streets. We are already seeing heart-wrenching stories of patients denied treatment."

He appealed to the government to consider the suggestions he had made earlier and asked it to rise above party politics amid rising coronavirus cases in Bengaluru. 
&nbsp;

Former Karnataka Chief Minister and JD(S) leader H D Kumaraswamy on Thursday slammed the BJP government in the state for its failure to protect the citizens from coronavirus.

Former Karnataka Chief Minister and JD(S) leader H D Kumaraswamy on Thursday slammed the BJP government in the state for its failure to protect the citizens from coronavirus. In a series of tweets, Kumaraswamy hit out at chief minister B S Yediyurappa and ministers for wasting their time in issuing contradictory statements instead of taking lessons from the Kerala government. It is shocking to see COVID-19 patients being turned down by the hospitals due to lack of beds. The government has failed in its duty to protect the citizens. 1/5 — H D Kumaraswamy (@hd_kumaraswamy) July 2, 2020 × "It is shocking to see COVID-19 patients being turned down by the hospitals due to lack of beds. The government has failed in its duty to protect the citizens," Kumaraswamy tweeted. He also said for the past three months Yediyurappa and his cabinet colleagues have been talking even as the escalated COVID-19 numbers stare them in the face. Stating that Karnataka suffers due to lack of coordination in the cabinet, Kumaraswamy cautioned, "If the government doesn't get its act together, the day is not far when COVID-19 patients would be condemned to die on the streets. We are already seeing heart-wrenching stories of patients denied treatment." He appealed to the government to consider the suggestions he had made earlier and asked it to rise above party politics amid rising coronavirus cases in Bengaluru.

Shocking to see COVID-19 patients being turned down by hospitals: Kumaraswamy

India needs foreign direct investments worth Rs 50 to 60 lakh crore and the money can be tapped mainly through infrastructure projects as well as MSME sector to accelerate the wheels of coronavirus-hit economy, according to Union minister Nitin Gadkari.

Emphasising that at this juncture Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) is the need of the hour, the senior minister said such funds would benefit the country as there is a need for pumping in liquidity into the market.

Economic activities have been significantly disrupted in the wake of the pandemic and subsequent lockdowns that were in place to curb spreading of infections.

"Country at this juncture needs liquidity. Without liquidity our economy's wheel will not accelerate... Rs 50-60 lakh crore foreign investment is needed in the country under present circumstances to boost the economy," the Road Transport, Highways and MSME Minister said.

Infrastructure sector including highways, airports, inland waterways, railways, logistic parks, broad gauge and metro, apart from Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) can attract large scale foreign investment, he noted.

"FDI in MSME, Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs) and banks are needed... In the highways sector, we are trying to bring foreign investment," he said.

Gadkari further said that talks are on with investors from Dubai and the US for various sectors, including MSMEs.

"Some MSMEs are already listed on the BSE. I have talked to investors in Dubai and the US to come and invest in such MSMEs based on their three-year turnover, GST track record, IT record and good rating. Investing in these can result in rich dividends as these do exports also," he said.

"We need to boost our technology for increasing growth and need to focus on enhancing exports. The Prime Minister's thrust is also on reducing dependence on imports and boosting exports. In this infrastructure can play a crucial role," he said.

While noting that the present situation is very serious as the entire world is facing problems, Gadkari stressed on the need to work on a war-footing basis on infrastructure front.

Further, the minister noted that public private partnerships can help harness huge funds and would have a cascading impact by generating more employment and boosting the economy.

Besides, the minister said that 22 green highways were being build, including the Rs 1 lakh crore Delhi-Mumbai Expressway on a new alignment.

Citing the example of Delhi-Mumbai Expressway, he said talks were on with the Maharashtra government to shift about 1.5 lakh leather workers to Thane in a proposed leather cluster along the highway which will have the most modern facilities including schools and hospitals besides affordable housing under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana.

"The development of backward area will alleviate poverty and accelerate development. Socio-economic thought is behind this," he said.

The Centre has announced Rs 20 lakh crore economic stimulus package, including Rs 8.01 lakh crore of liquidity measures announced by the Reserve Bank since March.

On Tuesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Ann Yojana (PMGKAY), a free ration scheme, would be extended for 80 crore people till the November end.

India needs foreign direct investments worth Rs 50 to 60 lakh crore and the money can be tapped mainly through infrastructure projects as well as MSME sector to accelerate the wheels of coronavirus-hit economy, according to Union minister Nitin Gadkari.

India needs foreign direct investments worth Rs 50 to 60 lakh crore and the money can be tapped mainly through infrastructure projects as well as MSME sector to accelerate the wheels of coronavirus-hit economy, according to Union minister Nitin Gadkari. Emphasising that at this juncture Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) is the need of the hour, the senior minister said such funds would benefit the country as there is a need for pumping in liquidity into the market. Economic activities have been significantly disrupted in the wake of the pandemic and subsequent lockdowns that were in place to curb spreading of infections. "Country at this juncture needs liquidity. Without liquidity our economy's wheel will not accelerate... Rs 50-60 lakh crore foreign investment is needed in the country under present circumstances to boost the economy," the Road Transport, Highways and MSME Minister said. Infrastructure sector including highways, airports, inland waterways, railways, logistic parks, broad gauge and metro, apart from Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) can attract large scale foreign investment, he noted. "FDI in MSME, Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs) and banks are needed... In the highways sector, we are trying to bring foreign investment," he said. Gadkari further said that talks are on with investors from Dubai and the US for various sectors, including MSMEs. "Some MSMEs are already listed on the BSE. I have talked to investors in Dubai and the US to come and invest in such MSMEs based on their three-year turnover, GST track record, IT record and good rating. Investing in these can result in rich dividends as these do exports also," he said. "We need to boost our technology for increasing growth and need to focus on enhancing exports. The Prime Minister's thrust is also on reducing dependence on imports and boosting exports. In this infrastructure can play a crucial role," he said. While noting that the present situation is very serious as the entire world is facing problems, Gadkari stressed on the need to work on a war-footing basis on infrastructure front. Further, the minister noted that public private partnerships can help harness huge funds and would have a cascading impact by generating more employment and boosting the economy. Besides, the minister said that 22 green highways were being build, including the Rs 1 lakh crore Delhi-Mumbai Expressway on a new alignment. Citing the example of Delhi-Mumbai Expressway, he said talks were on with the Maharashtra government to shift about 1.5 lakh leather workers to Thane in a proposed leather cluster along the highway which will have the most modern facilities including schools and hospitals besides affordable housing under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana. "The development of backward area will alleviate poverty and accelerate development. Socio-economic thought is behind this," he said. The Centre has announced Rs 20 lakh crore economic stimulus package, including Rs 8.01 lakh crore of liquidity measures announced by the Reserve Bank since March. On Tuesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Ann Yojana (PMGKAY), a free ration scheme, would be extended for 80 crore people till the November end.

India needs FDI investments worth Rs 50 to 60 lakh crore: Gadkari

Amazon founder Jeff Bezos’s net worth zoomed to $171.6 billion on Wednesday after the company's stocks surged 4.4 per cent.

The Amazon founder's ex-wife Mackenzie Bezos who had taken 4 per cent stake in Amazon after the couple divorced saw her fortunes rocket to $56.9 billion making her the second richest woman in the world. Bezos owns 11 per cent of stocks in Amazon.

<a href="Also Read: Amid coronavirus pandemic, billionaires get richer as Americans lose jobs">Also Read:&nbsp;Amid coronavirus pandemic, billionaires get richer as Americans lose jobs</a>

Bezos had earlier touched a high of $167.7 billion in 2018 making his current fortune the highest since his divorce even though he had ceded shares to his wife.

Bezos's fortune has grown a whopping $56.7 billion in six months partly due to consumer&nbsp;shift towards purchasing products through the e-retailer amid the coronavirus pandemic leading to lockdowns in several parts of the world.

Amazon had earlier announced that it would pay $500 million as one-time bonuses to its frontline employees who were working during the coronavirus pandemic even as workers in Germany went on strike over safety concerns.

In fact, the coronavirus crisis has come as a boon for another company founder as Tencent founder Pony Ma, 48, knocked out Alibaba founder Jack Ma as the richest man in China.&nbsp;

Pony Ma's company which makes video games benefited from the lockdown in China as people&nbsp;stayed home and played the popular games including&nbsp;"Honour of Kings", "PUBG Mobile" and "Clash of Clans" as the company cashed&nbsp;in on the changing online behaviour.

Pony Ma's fortune went up to $50 billion overpowering Jack Ma's $48 billion fortune even as China continues to grapple with the virus.

Amazon founder Jeff Bezos’s net worth zoomed to $171.6 billion on Wednesday after the company's stocks surged 4.4 per cent. The Amazon founder's ex-wife Mackenzie Bezos who had taken 4 per cent stake in Amazon after the couple divorced saw her fortunes rocket to $56.

Amazon founder Jeff Bezos’s net worth zoomed to $171.6 billion on Wednesday after the company's stocks surged 4.4 per cent. The Amazon founder's ex-wife Mackenzie Bezos who had taken 4 per cent stake in Amazon after the couple divorced saw her fortunes rocket to $56.9 billion making her the second richest woman in the world. Bezos owns 11 per cent of stocks in Amazon. Also Read: Amid coronavirus pandemic, billionaires get richer as Americans lose jobs Bezos had earlier touched a high of $167.7 billion in 2018 making his current fortune the highest since his divorce even though he had ceded shares to his wife. Bezos's fortune has grown a whopping $56.7 billion in six months partly due to consumer shift towards purchasing products through the e-retailer amid the coronavirus pandemic leading to lockdowns in several parts of the world. Amazon had earlier announced that it would pay $500 million as one-time bonuses to its frontline employees who were working during the coronavirus pandemic even as workers in Germany went on strike over safety concerns. In fact, the coronavirus crisis has come as a boon for another company founder as Tencent founder Pony Ma, 48, knocked out Alibaba founder Jack Ma as the richest man in China. Pony Ma's company which makes video games benefited from the lockdown in China as people stayed home and played the popular games including "Honour of Kings", "PUBG Mobile" and "Clash of Clans" as the company cashed in on the changing online behaviour. Pony Ma's fortune went up to $50 billion overpowering Jack Ma's $48 billion fortune even as China continues to grapple with the virus.

Amazon founder Jeff Bezos net worth zooms to $171.6 billion amid pandemic; ex-wife Mackenzie becomes second richest woman

President Vladimir Putin constitutional reform plan is set to extend his rule till 2036 as Russians have already given him 77.92 per cent of their votes The reform plan allows the Russian president to run twice again for office after his current six-year term ends in 2024.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-voters-overwhelmingly-back-putins-reform-plan-to-rule-until-2036-310054">Also Read:&nbsp;Russian voters overwhelmingly back Putin's reform plan to rule until 2036</a>

Russia's two houses of parliament had already stamped their approval but Putin chose the will of the people to put his powers on the line. Putin is headed for a big majority as are being counted in Russia.

There are however several key elements including controversial plans in Putin's reform agenda.

Key highlights:

The plan seeks to ban same-sex marriages.

It emphasises inclusion of "belief in God'' as a "core value"

The new plan also gives primacy of Russian law over international law, a move which is likely to have consequences later.

It gives priority to the Russian constitution over international treaties.

The new laws also bans&nbsp;cabinet ministers, judges and lawmakers from holding second citizenship or permanent residency abroad.&nbsp;

It has set Russia's minimum wage over the poverty line and seeks to adjust pensions to the inflation rate every year.

It also grants Russia’s lower house of Parliament the authority to appoint the prime minister and cabinet ministers and disallows the president from rejecting the nominations.

President Vladimir Putin constitutional reform plan is set to extend his rule till 2036 as Russians have already given him 77.92 per cent of their votes The reform plan allows the Russian president to run twice again for office after his current six-year term ends in 2024.

President Vladimir Putin constitutional reform plan is set to extend his rule till 2036 as Russians have already given him 77.92 per cent of their votes The reform plan allows the Russian president to run twice again for office after his current six-year term ends in 2024. Also Read: Russian voters overwhelmingly back Putin's reform plan to rule until 2036 Russia's two houses of parliament had already stamped their approval but Putin chose the will of the people to put his powers on the line. Putin is headed for a big majority as are being counted in Russia. There are however several key elements including controversial plans in Putin's reform agenda. Key highlights: The plan seeks to ban same-sex marriages. It emphasises inclusion of "belief in God'' as a "core value" The new plan also gives primacy of Russian law over international law, a move which is likely to have consequences later. It gives priority to the Russian constitution over international treaties. The new laws also bans cabinet ministers, judges and lawmakers from holding second citizenship or permanent residency abroad. It has set Russia's minimum wage over the poverty line and seeks to adjust pensions to the inflation rate every year. It also grants Russia’s lower house of Parliament the authority to appoint the prime minister and cabinet ministers and disallows the president from rejecting the nominations.

Putin's reform plan highlights: Ban same-sex marriages, primacy of Russian law

As India banned 59 Chinese apps on Monday, China's commerce ministry said that China has not "adopted any restrictive and discriminatory measures against Indian products and services".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-quits-chinese-social-network-weibo-all-posts-profile-picture-removed-309928">Also Read:&nbsp;PM Modi quits Chinese social network Weibo; all posts, profile picture removed</a>

The Commerce ministry said it hoped India corrects its "discriminatory actions against Chinese companies immediately."

Ministry of Commerce spokesman Gao Feng said in an online briefing that India's action was&nbsp;in violation of WTO rules.

In a similar move, China's foreign ministry had earlier said it was "strongly concerned" over India's ban on Chinese apps.

Watch Video:

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India had banned several Chinese apps including the popular Tik Tok, UC browser, ShareIT, Baidu map, Helo, WeChat, Weibo, Clash of Kings.

"This move will safeguard the interests of crores of Indian mobile and internet users. This decision is a targeted move to ensure safety and sovereignty of Indian cyberspace," the government had said.

The United States backed India's move with the secretary of state Mike Pompeo saying that "India's ban on certain mobile apps that can serve as appendages of the CCP surveillance state."

"India's clean app approach will boost India's sovereignty and will also boost India's integrity and national security, as the Indian government cell itself has stated," the US secretary of state asserted.

Tik Tok defended its position in a statement and said that the company "continues to comply with all data privacy and security requirements under Indian law and have not shared any information of our users in India with any foreign government, including the Chinese government."

The company which has huge followers in India further added that it had "democratized the internet" by making it available in &nbsp;14 Indian languages by giving a platform to artists, storytellers and performers.

As India banned 59 Chinese apps on Monday, China's commerce ministry said that China has not "adopted any restrictive and discriminatory measures against Indian products and services".

As India banned 59 Chinese apps on Monday, China's commerce ministry said that China has not "adopted any restrictive and discriminatory measures against Indian products and services". Also Read: PM Modi quits Chinese social network Weibo; all posts, profile picture removed The Commerce ministry said it hoped India corrects its "discriminatory actions against Chinese companies immediately." Ministry of Commerce spokesman Gao Feng said in an online briefing that India's action was in violation of WTO rules. In a similar move, China's foreign ministry had earlier said it was "strongly concerned" over India's ban on Chinese apps. Watch Video: India had banned several Chinese apps including the popular Tik Tok, UC browser, ShareIT, Baidu map, Helo, WeChat, Weibo, Clash of Kings. "This move will safeguard the interests of crores of Indian mobile and internet users. This decision is a targeted move to ensure safety and sovereignty of Indian cyberspace," the government had said. The United States backed India's move with the secretary of state Mike Pompeo saying that "India's ban on certain mobile apps that can serve as appendages of the CCP surveillance state." "India's clean app approach will boost India's sovereignty and will also boost India's integrity and national security, as the Indian government cell itself has stated," the US secretary of state asserted. Tik Tok defended its position in a statement and said that the company "continues to comply with all data privacy and security requirements under Indian law and have not shared any information of our users in India with any foreign government, including the Chinese government." The company which has huge followers in India further added that it had "democratized the internet" by making it available in 14 Indian languages by giving a platform to artists, storytellers and performers.

Haven't adopted discriminatory measures against Indian products, says China on apps banned by India

Social networking giant Facebook has launched its latest feature "Avatars"&nbsp;in India which allows users to make graphic images of themselves, the new tool has characteristics of Bitmoji stickers used in Snapchat.

Facebook said Avatars supports faces, hairstyles and outfits that are customized for users in India. The launch comes just a day after&nbsp;the Indian government banned 59 Chinese apps over national security concerns with Tik Tok facing the government's ire even as its followers swelled in India.

Alibaba, Bytedance, Baidu and Tencent who had launched apps in India have come under the government's spotlight.

The new Facebook feature allows uses to create a digital persona that’s uniquely representative enabling them&nbsp;to share a range of emotions and expressions. Facebook is looking to personalise the user experience as it looks to drive its user base in India and&nbsp;seeks to move away from simple GIFs and stickers.

Avatars posts can also be shared on WhatsApp chats including as Facebook's profile picture with users now allowed to set specific hair and facial features according to their preference. The users can in fact also create avatars from another user's cartoon-like representation.

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These Facebook avatars are so cute! 
Look at mine. 🤭 <a href="https://t.co/M8VP83MLcW">pic.twitter.com/M8VP83MLcW</a>
— Parul ⁷⟭⟬ (@parul__1997) <a href="https://twitter.com/parul__1997/status/1278184524510199808?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 1, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The users in India were quick to lap up the new feature as they posted their ‘Avatars’ to show off to their friends as Facebook hopes it becomes another addictive feature for its fanbase in India.

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Facebook trend it is 😂 
I am this type of Avatar .. what is yours ?🤔<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Trending?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Trending</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Facebook?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Facebook</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/facebookapp?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@facebookapp</a> <a href="https://t.co/moQK73yfNF">pic.twitter.com/moQK73yfNF</a>
— Soumili Deb (@DebSoumili) <a href="https://twitter.com/DebSoumili/status/1278207112229695488?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 1, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The feature allows a user to change skin tone, put on new makeup and clothes with everything available on Android, iOS devices where users can use their Facebook account.

&nbsp;

Social networking giant Facebook has launched its latest feature "Avatars" in India which allows users to make graphic images of themselves, the new tool has characteristics of Bitmoji stickers used in Snapchat.

Social networking giant Facebook has launched its latest feature "Avatars" in India which allows users to make graphic images of themselves, the new tool has characteristics of Bitmoji stickers used in Snapchat. Facebook said Avatars supports faces, hairstyles and outfits that are customized for users in India. The launch comes just a day after the Indian government banned 59 Chinese apps over national security concerns with Tik Tok facing the government's ire even as its followers swelled in India. Alibaba, Bytedance, Baidu and Tencent who had launched apps in India have come under the government's spotlight. The new Facebook feature allows uses to create a digital persona that’s uniquely representative enabling them to share a range of emotions and expressions. Facebook is looking to personalise the user experience as it looks to drive its user base in India and seeks to move away from simple GIFs and stickers. Avatars posts can also be shared on WhatsApp chats including as Facebook's profile picture with users now allowed to set specific hair and facial features according to their preference. The users can in fact also create avatars from another user's cartoon-like representation. These Facebook avatars are so cute! Look at mine. 🤭 pic.twitter.com/M8VP83MLcW — Parul ⁷⟭⟬ (@parul__1997) July 1, 2020 × The users in India were quick to lap up the new feature as they posted their ‘Avatars’ to show off to their friends as Facebook hopes it becomes another addictive feature for its fanbase in India. Facebook trend it is 😂 I am this type of Avatar .. what is yours ?🤔#Trending @Facebook @facebookapp pic.twitter.com/moQK73yfNF — Soumili Deb (@DebSoumili) July 1, 2020 × The feature allows a user to change skin tone, put on new makeup and clothes with everything available on Android, iOS devices where users can use their Facebook account.

Facebook's Avatars allows users in India to create own digital profile

The coronavirus pandemic claimed 507 lives in the last 24 hours with 18,653 new coronavirus cases.

The number of COVID-19 cases in the country has shot up to &nbsp;5,85,493 including 2,20,114 active cases, India's health ministry informed with the death toll rising to 17,400.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amid-unlock-20-karnataka-government-orders-lockdown-in-containment-zones-309804">Also Read:&nbsp;Amid Unlock 2.0, Karnataka government orders lockdown in containment zones</a>

India's health ministry said that 3,47,979 have been cured of the virus.

Maharashtra which has been hit hardest due to the virus reported 245 deaths and 4,878 new coronavirus cases today with the total number of cases in the state rising to 1,74,761 including 75,979 active cases.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://13.235.153.162/videos/hard-reset-indian-film-industry-after-covid-19-309689/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Meanwhile, Maharashtra's capital Mumbai reported 903 new coronavirus cases and 36 deaths in the last 24 hours with the total number of cases rising to 77,197 including 2,84,73 active cases.

There have been 4,554 deaths due to the virus in India's financial capital.

India's national capital reported 2,199 new coronavirus cases and 62 deaths in the last 24 hours with the total number of cases rising to 8,7360 including 2,62,70 active cases

The death toll due to virus in Delhi has gone up to 2,742. The Delhi government said that 5,31,752 tests have been done so far.

Gujarat reported 620 coronavirus cases and 20 deaths in the last 24 hours with the number of cases in the state rising to 32,446. There have been &nbsp;1,848 deaths due to the virus in the state.

The coronavirus pandemic claimed 507 lives in the last 24 hours with 18,653 new coronavirus cases. The number of COVID-19 cases in the country has shot up to 5,85,493 including 2,20,114 active cases, India's health ministry informed with the death toll rising to 17,400.

The coronavirus pandemic claimed 507 lives in the last 24 hours with 18,653 new coronavirus cases. The number of COVID-19 cases in the country has shot up to 5,85,493 including 2,20,114 active cases, India's health ministry informed with the death toll rising to 17,400. Also Read: Amid Unlock 2.0, Karnataka government orders lockdown in containment zones India's health ministry said that 3,47,979 have been cured of the virus. Maharashtra which has been hit hardest due to the virus reported 245 deaths and 4,878 new coronavirus cases today with the total number of cases in the state rising to 1,74,761 including 75,979 active cases. Watch: Meanwhile, Maharashtra's capital Mumbai reported 903 new coronavirus cases and 36 deaths in the last 24 hours with the total number of cases rising to 77,197 including 2,84,73 active cases. There have been 4,554 deaths due to the virus in India's financial capital. India's national capital reported 2,199 new coronavirus cases and 62 deaths in the last 24 hours with the total number of cases rising to 8,7360 including 2,62,70 active cases The death toll due to virus in Delhi has gone up to 2,742. The Delhi government said that 5,31,752 tests have been done so far. Gujarat reported 620 coronavirus cases and 20 deaths in the last 24 hours with the number of cases in the state rising to 32,446. There have been 1,848 deaths due to the virus in the state.

Coronavirus: India reports 507 deaths in 24 hours; toll rises to 17,400

As India heralded Unlock 2.0, the Karnataka government said that all government offices, corporations, except those operating and maintaining essential services, shall remain closed on all Saturdays till August 2.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/unlock-20-the-definitive-list-on-all-you-can-cannot-do-309617">Also Read - Unlock 2.0: The definitive list on all you can &amp; cannot do</a>

Lockdown shall continue to remain in force in the containment zones, it asserted

Meanwhile, the Tamil Nadu government said that only small temples in rural areas with an annual income of less than Rs 10,000, small mosques, dargahs, churches and other religious places will be allowed for public worship from July 1.

The government emphasised that similar establishments in Greater Chennai Police Commissionerate areas and in containment zones will not be allowed to open.

The West Bengal government extended lockdown measures in containment zones till July 31 amid rising COVID-19 cases. The state government said cinema halls, schools, colleges, gyms, entertainment parks, political religious and other large gatherings will be prohibited during this time.

Minister of Railways said that it will expand 350 local trains in Mumbai from Wednesday as Unlock 2.0 takes effect.

(With ANI inputs)

As India heralded Unlock 2.0, the Karnataka government said that all government offices, corporations, except those operating and maintaining essential services, shall remain closed on all Saturdays till August 2.

As India heralded Unlock 2.0, the Karnataka government said that all government offices, corporations, except those operating and maintaining essential services, shall remain closed on all Saturdays till August 2. Also Read - Unlock 2.0: The definitive list on all you can & cannot do Lockdown shall continue to remain in force in the containment zones, it asserted Meanwhile, the Tamil Nadu government said that only small temples in rural areas with an annual income of less than Rs 10,000, small mosques, dargahs, churches and other religious places will be allowed for public worship from July 1. The government emphasised that similar establishments in Greater Chennai Police Commissionerate areas and in containment zones will not be allowed to open. The West Bengal government extended lockdown measures in containment zones till July 31 amid rising COVID-19 cases. The state government said cinema halls, schools, colleges, gyms, entertainment parks, political religious and other large gatherings will be prohibited during this time. Minister of Railways said that it will expand 350 local trains in Mumbai from Wednesday as Unlock 2.0 takes effect. (With ANI inputs)

Amid Unlock 2.0, Karnataka government orders lockdown in containment zones

A US judge temporarily stopped the publication of a book by Trump's niece which is being touted as a "tell-all" book on the US president.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/should-claims-made-in-boltons-new-book-be-trusted-308631">Also Read:&nbsp;Should claims made in Bolton's new book be trusted?</a>

According to the order, the book will not be published at least till July 10. &nbsp;Mary Trump, 55, and her publisher&nbsp;Simon &amp; Schuster are set to defend the publication of the book at a later date.

The Trump team had earlier asked the judge to set a temporary restraining order which was rejected. A court in New York had earlier rejected attempts to block the book.

The Trump administration had earlier tried to block the president's former national security advisor John Bolton's book.

Robert Trump, the US president's brother told the New York court that the book violated a non-disclosure agreement Mary had signed in 2001.

Mary's lawyers said they will appeal the judgement.

"The trial court's temporary restraining order is only temporary but it still is a prior restraint on core political speech that flatly violates the First Amendment," Mary's lawyer &nbsp;Theodore Boutrous, said in a statement.

"This book, which addresses matters of great public concern and importance about a sitting president in an election year, should not be suppressed even for one day," Boutrous added.

The controversial, "tell-all" book reportedly reveals&nbsp;Trump's tax plans and other details of the Trump family.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

A US judge temporarily stopped the publication of a book by Trump's niece which is being touted as a "tell-all" book on the US president. Also Read: Should claims made in Bolton's new book be trusted?

A US judge temporarily stopped the publication of a book by Trump's niece which is being touted as a "tell-all" book on the US president. Also Read: Should claims made in Bolton's new book be trusted? According to the order, the book will not be published at least till July 10. Mary Trump, 55, and her publisher Simon & Schuster are set to defend the publication of the book at a later date. The Trump team had earlier asked the judge to set a temporary restraining order which was rejected. A court in New York had earlier rejected attempts to block the book. The Trump administration had earlier tried to block the president's former national security advisor John Bolton's book. Robert Trump, the US president's brother told the New York court that the book violated a non-disclosure agreement Mary had signed in 2001. Mary's lawyers said they will appeal the judgement. "The trial court's temporary restraining order is only temporary but it still is a prior restraint on core political speech that flatly violates the First Amendment," Mary's lawyer Theodore Boutrous, said in a statement. "This book, which addresses matters of great public concern and importance about a sitting president in an election year, should not be suppressed even for one day," Boutrous added. The controversial, "tell-all" book reportedly reveals Trump's tax plans and other details of the Trump family.

New York judge temporarily blocks 'tell-all' book by Trump's niece

At least 19 people were killed after a powerful explosion hit a clinic in northern Tehran.

The blast occurred at the Sina At'har health care centre. Authorities sent medical units to the area immediately as &nbsp;plume of black smoke filled the sky.

According to reports, firefighters recovered six bodies with several still wounded. The blaze was later brought under control with reports indicating that the building caught fire after an explosion occurred as the gas canisters caught fire in the clinic's basement.

Iran's capital Tehran was earlier hit with&nbsp;an explosion near a military complex. &nbsp; 
&nbsp;

At least 19 people were killed after a powerful explosion hit a clinic in northern Tehran. The blast occurred at the Sina At'har health care centre. Authorities sent medical units to the area immediately as plume of black smoke filled the sky.

At least 19 people were killed after a powerful explosion hit a clinic in northern Tehran. The blast occurred at the Sina At'har health care centre. Authorities sent medical units to the area immediately as plume of black smoke filled the sky. According to reports, firefighters recovered six bodies with several still wounded. The blaze was later brought under control with reports indicating that the building caught fire after an explosion occurred as the gas canisters caught fire in the clinic's basement. Iran's capital Tehran was earlier hit with an explosion near a military complex.

At least 19 dead as explosion hits clinic in Iran

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