The Pentagon or the US department of defence, in its report on Afghanistan, has said Afghanistan-Pakistan border region remains a sanctuary for various terror groups.

These groups include al-Qa’ida Core (AQ), al-Qa’ida in the Indian Subcontinent (AQIS), Lashkar-e-Tayyiba (LeT), Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), and ISIS-Khorasan (ISIS-K).&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/un-concerned-afghan-violence-aimed-at-derailing-peace-talks-310176">Also read|&nbsp;UN concerned Afghan violence aimed at derailing peace talks</a>

The report said, "Terrorist sanctuaries on both sides of the Afghanistan-Pakistan border present security challenges for both countries (Afghanistan and Pakistan), pose a threat to regional security and stability, and threaten U.S. national security interests."

Highlighting US interest in Afghanistan, the report said, Washington wants to "ensure the country is never again used as a safe haven from which terrorists can attack the United States, or our Allies or interests abroad" and "accordingly, the primary U.S. Government objective in Afghanistan is to support the Afghan government's effort to obtain a durable political settlement that ends the war and mitigates terrorist threats emanating from Afghanistan."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/want-peaceful-democratic-afghanistan-with-rights-for-women-minorities-khalid-noor-310052">Also read|&nbsp;Want peaceful, democratic Afghanistan with rights for women, minorities: Khalid Noor</a>

The report also highlighted the "close ties" al-Qa’ida's regional affiliate—al-Qa’ida in the Indian Subcontinent (AQIS) has maintained with Taliban.&nbsp;

Last month a United Nations report said that about 6,500 Pakistanis as foreign terrorist fighters are present in Afghanistan including 1,000 belonging to Pakistan based terror groups like Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba.

Most of the Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba fighters are co-located with Taliban fighters and are hand in glove with them, the report said.

The UN monitoring team in its annual technical update to United Nations Security Council said, "The number of foreign terrorist fighters in search of a purpose and livelihood in Afghanistan, including up to 6,500 Pakistanis, will render this a complex challenge, which will require careful monitoring.

The Pentagon or the US department of defence, in its report on Afghanistan, has said Afghanistan-Pakistan border region remains a sanctuary for various terror groups.

The Pentagon or the US department of defence, in its report on Afghanistan, has said Afghanistan-Pakistan border region remains a sanctuary for various terror groups. These groups include al-Qa’ida Core (AQ), al-Qa’ida in the Indian Subcontinent (AQIS), Lashkar-e-Tayyiba (LeT), Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), and ISIS-Khorasan (ISIS-K). Also read| UN concerned Afghan violence aimed at derailing peace talks The report said, "Terrorist sanctuaries on both sides of the Afghanistan-Pakistan border present security challenges for both countries (Afghanistan and Pakistan), pose a threat to regional security and stability, and threaten U.S. national security interests." Highlighting US interest in Afghanistan, the report said, Washington wants to "ensure the country is never again used as a safe haven from which terrorists can attack the United States, or our Allies or interests abroad" and "accordingly, the primary U.S. Government objective in Afghanistan is to support the Afghan government's effort to obtain a durable political settlement that ends the war and mitigates terrorist threats emanating from Afghanistan." Also read| Want peaceful, democratic Afghanistan with rights for women, minorities: Khalid Noor The report also highlighted the "close ties" al-Qa’ida's regional affiliate—al-Qa’ida in the Indian Subcontinent (AQIS) has maintained with Taliban. Last month a United Nations report said that about 6,500 Pakistanis as foreign terrorist fighters are present in Afghanistan including 1,000 belonging to Pakistan based terror groups like Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba. Most of the Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba fighters are co-located with Taliban fighters and are hand in glove with them, the report said. The UN monitoring team in its annual technical update to United Nations Security Council said, "The number of foreign terrorist fighters in search of a purpose and livelihood in Afghanistan, including up to 6,500 Pakistanis, will render this a complex challenge, which will require careful monitoring.

Afghan-Pak border sanctuary for terror groups: Pentagon

The third round of India-China military talks on Tuesday lasted for 12 hours with the focus being on defining the details of "disengagement".&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/india-china-standoff-why-both-sides-cannot-use-military-capability-along-lac-309651">In Pics:&nbsp;&nbsp;India-China standoff: Why both sides cannot use military capability along LAC</a>

The talks between the commander of the Leh-based 14 Corps Lieutenant General Harinder Singh and commander of the South Xinjiang military region Major General Liu Lin comes even as tensions continue between India and China after the deadly face-off last week that left 20 Indian soldiers dead.

Sources said, "There are four pockets of friction right now. Only slight reduction of troops on these, minuscule."

Both sides had agreed on disengagement after June 6 corps commander meet, but China attempted to unilaterally change the situation on the ground on June 15 that led to the violent face-off.

"Concentration and mobilisation of troops continues and hasn’t shown signs of abating," sources said, highlighting that it will be "a long haul, well into the winter".

The second round of corps commander meet had occurred on June 22.&nbsp;

Diplomatic talks are also expected to happen soon. During the 15th round of Working Mechanism for Consultation &amp; Coordination on India-China Border Affairs (WMCC) last week, both sides agreed "to maintain communication both at diplomatic and military level including under the framework of WMCC to resolve the existing situation peacefully."

The third round of India-China military talks on Tuesday lasted for 12 hours with the focus being on defining the details of "disengagement". In Pics: India-China standoff: Why both sides cannot use military capability along LAC The talks between the commander of the Leh-based 14 Corps Lieutenant General Harinder Singh and commander of the South Xinjiang military region Major General Liu Lin comes even as tensions continue between India and China after the deadly face-off last week that left 20 Indian soldiers dead.

The third round of India-China military talks on Tuesday lasted for 12 hours with the focus being on defining the details of "disengagement". In Pics: India-China standoff: Why both sides cannot use military capability along LAC The talks between the commander of the Leh-based 14 Corps Lieutenant General Harinder Singh and commander of the South Xinjiang military region Major General Liu Lin comes even as tensions continue between India and China after the deadly face-off last week that left 20 Indian soldiers dead. Sources said, "There are four pockets of friction right now. Only slight reduction of troops on these, minuscule." Both sides had agreed on disengagement after June 6 corps commander meet, but China attempted to unilaterally change the situation on the ground on June 15 that led to the violent face-off. "Concentration and mobilisation of troops continues and hasn’t shown signs of abating," sources said, highlighting that it will be "a long haul, well into the winter". The second round of corps commander meet had occurred on June 22. Diplomatic talks are also expected to happen soon. During the 15th round of Working Mechanism for Consultation & Coordination on India-China Border Affairs (WMCC) last week, both sides agreed "to maintain communication both at diplomatic and military level including under the framework of WMCC to resolve the existing situation peacefully."

India-China standoff: Mobilisation of troops continues along LAC, say Indian sources to WION

lndra Mani Pandey has been appointed as the next Indian envoy to UN bodies and other international organisations in Geneva. A sensitive post, he will represent India in more than 25 important organisations of UN in Geneva including World Health Organisation and the United Nations Human Rights Council.

He will have an important task at hand given&nbsp;calls are growing for reforms at the World Health Organisation due to its failure to deal with the COVID pandemic. India was appointed as the chair of the executive committed of the WHO this year at the World Health Assembly earlier this year. New Delhi was among more than 60 countries to&nbsp;back a resolution that called for finding the source of COVID crisis.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/europes-world-view-german-eu-envoys-call-for-more-multilateralism-amid-coronavirus-crisis-309945" hreflang="en">Europe's world view: German, EU envoys call for more multilateralism amid coronavirus crisis</a>

Pandey will also represent India at International Labour Organisation, Universal Postal Union, one of the oldest arms of UN that even predates UN, International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), International Organization for Standardization (ISO), World Meteorological Organisation (WMO), World Intellectual Property Organisation, International Parliamentary Union,&nbsp;United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs.

Pandey, an&nbsp;Arabic speaker has served in Cairo, Syria in initial days and was later the first Secretary in Islamabad, Kabul and in Geneva at the Mission to Conference on Disarmament. He has also served as India's consul general in&nbsp;Guangzhou, Deputy chief of mission in Paris DCM Paris, Ambassador to Muscat.&nbsp;His last posting was as AS in the D &amp; ISA Division.

The previous envoy to these UN bodies in Geneva was&nbsp;Rajiv K&nbsp;Chander who&nbsp;completed his three-year team. Under his leadership, India was able to successfully thwart Pakistan's&nbsp;attempt to rake Kashmir at Human Rights Council after the abrogation of Article 370 that removed special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir in August 2019. Pakistani FM had himself reached to UNHRC calling for a special session, something that did not get much of a support.

lndra Mani Pandey has been appointed as the next Indian envoy to UN bodies and other international organisations in Geneva. A sensitive post, he will represent India in more than 25 important organisations of UN in Geneva including World Health Organisation and the United Nations Human Rights Council.

lndra Mani Pandey has been appointed as the next Indian envoy to UN bodies and other international organisations in Geneva. A sensitive post, he will represent India in more than 25 important organisations of UN in Geneva including World Health Organisation and the United Nations Human Rights Council. He will have an important task at hand given calls are growing for reforms at the World Health Organisation due to its failure to deal with the COVID pandemic. India was appointed as the chair of the executive committed of the WHO this year at the World Health Assembly earlier this year. New Delhi was among more than 60 countries to back a resolution that called for finding the source of COVID crisis. Also read: Europe's world view: German, EU envoys call for more multilateralism amid coronavirus crisis Pandey will also represent India at International Labour Organisation, Universal Postal Union, one of the oldest arms of UN that even predates UN, International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), International Organization for Standardization (ISO), World Meteorological Organisation (WMO), World Intellectual Property Organisation, International Parliamentary Union, United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs. Pandey, an Arabic speaker has served in Cairo, Syria in initial days and was later the first Secretary in Islamabad, Kabul and in Geneva at the Mission to Conference on Disarmament. He has also served as India's consul general in Guangzhou, Deputy chief of mission in Paris DCM Paris, Ambassador to Muscat. His last posting was as AS in the D & ISA Division. The previous envoy to these UN bodies in Geneva was Rajiv K Chander who completed his three-year team. Under his leadership, India was able to successfully thwart Pakistan's attempt to rake Kashmir at Human Rights Council after the abrogation of Article 370 that removed special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir in August 2019. Pakistani FM had himself reached to UNHRC calling for a special session, something that did not get much of a support.

Amid focus on WHO, India appoints new envoy to United Nations bodies in Geneva

Indian and Sri Lankan authorities on Monday and Tuesday held talks on rescheduling Sri Lanka’s repayment to India and the country's $1.1 billion currency swap request to abate the economic impact of COVID crisis.

A spokesperson for the Indian mission in Sri Lanka said, "In the context of the situation concerning Sri Lankan economy’s external sector, the two countries have been engaged in close and constructive discussions" on the issue.&nbsp;

Indian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka Gopal Baglay held discussions at senior levels in Colombo on Sri Lanka’s requirements.

The statement said, "In the post-COVID world, India remains committed to partner Sri Lanka closely for the latter’s sustained economic recovery and shared prosperity."

The matter has been raised at the leadership level during PM Modi's telephonic conversation with Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa last month on 23 May. During the talks, the Sri Lankan President requested the Indian government to provide USD 1.1 billion special SWAP facility to top up USD 400 million under SAARC Facility.&nbsp;

The Indian readout said, "Prime Minister assured the Sri Lankan President that India would continue to provide all possible support to Sri Lanka for mitigating the effects of the pandemic."

President Rajapaksa also sought Indian help to revive key infrastructure projects in the Indian Ocean Island country including hastening up the construction of the East Terminal of the Colombo Port.

Indian and Sri Lankan authorities on Monday and Tuesday held talks on rescheduling Sri Lanka’s repayment to India and the country's $1.1 billion currency swap request to abate the economic impact of COVID crisis.

Indian and Sri Lankan authorities on Monday and Tuesday held talks on rescheduling Sri Lanka’s repayment to India and the country's $1.1 billion currency swap request to abate the economic impact of COVID crisis. A spokesperson for the Indian mission in Sri Lanka said, "In the context of the situation concerning Sri Lankan economy’s external sector, the two countries have been engaged in close and constructive discussions" on the issue. Indian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka Gopal Baglay held discussions at senior levels in Colombo on Sri Lanka’s requirements. The statement said, "In the post-COVID world, India remains committed to partner Sri Lanka closely for the latter’s sustained economic recovery and shared prosperity." The matter has been raised at the leadership level during PM Modi's telephonic conversation with Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa last month on 23 May. During the talks, the Sri Lankan President requested the Indian government to provide USD 1.1 billion special SWAP facility to top up USD 400 million under SAARC Facility. The Indian readout said, "Prime Minister assured the Sri Lankan President that India would continue to provide all possible support to Sri Lanka for mitigating the effects of the pandemic." President Rajapaksa also sought Indian help to revive key infrastructure projects in the Indian Ocean Island country including hastening up the construction of the East Terminal of the Colombo Port.

Covid-19: India, Sri Lanka hold talks on Colombo's debt repayment

India and Bhutan have signed concession agreement on the 600 MW Kholongchhu hydroelectric project (KHEL).

The project will be the first-ever Joint Venture project to be implemented in Bhutan. The partners of the project are India's Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam Limited(SJVNL) and Druk Green Power Corporation Limited (DGPC).

Speaking at the signing ceremony via video conference, India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar said, "commencement of the construction activities of the Project will create economic and employment opportunities in Bhutan in this critical time."

KHEL will be the first Joint Venture company to be implemented under an Inter-Governmental Agreement (IGA) signed in 2014.

"Cooperation in the development of the hydropower sector in Bhutan is the centrepiece of the mutually beneficial economic cooperation between Bhutan and India. Hydropower projects are of paramount importance for both our countries as they will serve to further integrate our economies, bring further prosperity and enhance energy security for both the countries" Bhutan's foreign minister Tandi Dorji said.

On debt financing he called on the "JV partner from the Indian side would need to take the lead" and sought support and "intervention of the Government of India to ensure that the project secures access to the most viable financing at the earliest."

Kholongchu is expected to generate about 2568.88 million units annually.

Calling, Kholongchhu "continuation of our bilateral cooperation" Indian envoy to Bhutan Ruchira Kamboj highlighted previous such cooperation on hydro projects like Chukha, Kurichhu, Tala and Mangdechhu all of which "stand as proud examples...epitomising the core of this friendship: partnership for a greater good."

Adding, "With this 7th hydro project (Puna-I and Puna-II working in progress) we further the noble visions of both His Majesty and Prime Minister Modi as we develop even greater trust between our two countries."

India recently completed 720 MW Mangdechhu Hydro Electric Power Project and both sides are in process of expediting the completion of other ongoing projects including the1200MW Punatsangchhu-1 &amp; 1020MW Punatsangchhu-2.

During PM Modi's visit to Bhutan in August 2019, he along with Bhutan's PM inaugurated the 720 MW Mangdechhu Hydroelectric Project.

India and Bhutan have signed concession agreement on the 600 MW Kholongchhu hydroelectric project (KHEL). The project will be the first-ever Joint Venture project to be implemented in Bhutan.

India and Bhutan have signed concession agreement on the 600 MW Kholongchhu hydroelectric project (KHEL). The project will be the first-ever Joint Venture project to be implemented in Bhutan. The partners of the project are India's Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam Limited(SJVNL) and Druk Green Power Corporation Limited (DGPC). Speaking at the signing ceremony via video conference, India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar said, "commencement of the construction activities of the Project will create economic and employment opportunities in Bhutan in this critical time." KHEL will be the first Joint Venture company to be implemented under an Inter-Governmental Agreement (IGA) signed in 2014. "Cooperation in the development of the hydropower sector in Bhutan is the centrepiece of the mutually beneficial economic cooperation between Bhutan and India. Hydropower projects are of paramount importance for both our countries as they will serve to further integrate our economies, bring further prosperity and enhance energy security for both the countries" Bhutan's foreign minister Tandi Dorji said. On debt financing he called on the "JV partner from the Indian side would need to take the lead" and sought support and "intervention of the Government of India to ensure that the project secures access to the most viable financing at the earliest." Kholongchu is expected to generate about 2568.88 million units annually. Calling, Kholongchhu "continuation of our bilateral cooperation" Indian envoy to Bhutan Ruchira Kamboj highlighted previous such cooperation on hydro projects like Chukha, Kurichhu, Tala and Mangdechhu all of which "stand as proud examples...epitomising the core of this friendship: partnership for a greater good." Adding, "With this 7th hydro project (Puna-I and Puna-II working in progress) we further the noble visions of both His Majesty and Prime Minister Modi as we develop even greater trust between our two countries." India recently completed 720 MW Mangdechhu Hydro Electric Power Project and both sides are in process of expediting the completion of other ongoing projects including the1200MW Punatsangchhu-1 & 1020MW Punatsangchhu-2. During PM Modi's visit to Bhutan in August 2019, he along with Bhutan's PM inaugurated the 720 MW Mangdechhu Hydroelectric Project.

India, Bhutan sign agreement on 600 MW Kholongchhu hydroelectric project

Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has alleged that India wants to topple his government after he issued the new Nepal map that shows Indian territories of Kalapani, Lipulekh and Limpiyadhura as Nepali territories.&nbsp;

Speaking at an event in Kathmandu, Nepal PM said, "listen to the media in Delhi..activities have been stepped up in hotels and at the Indian mission (In Kathmandu) suggests what's happening... If anyone dreams of unseating the prime minister of this country for publishing the map and including the map in the constitution...Don't even think of it!"

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepal-to-reopen-its-second-border-point-with-china-for-supply-of-essential-goods-309055" hreflang="en">Nepal to reopen its second border point with China for supply of essential goods</a>

Calling it an&nbsp;attempt&nbsp;to overthrow this&nbsp;"illusion", Nepal PM highlighted how his government was toppled in the past for signing transit agreement with China.

The comments come&nbsp;amid mounting pressure on Oli&nbsp;within his party and in the country over failures at several fronts including inaction on dealing COVID crisis and&nbsp;corruption charges.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepal-21-patients-escape-covid-quarantine-facility-593-fresh-cases-recorded-308955" hreflang="en">Nepal: 21 patients escape COVID quarantine facility; 593 fresh cases recorded</a>

Their were several protest all across Nepal&nbsp;over many of these issues. At the standing committee meeting of the ruling Nepal communist party, Oli faced criticism from Pushpa Kamal Dahal who is the co-chair of the party.

Oli's comments against India are not new, and in the past, he as alleged the COVID cases in his country are due to the number of people coming from India to which New Delhi had expressed surprised. 
&nbsp;

Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has alleged that India wants to topple his government after he issued the new Nepal map that shows Indian territories of Kalapani, Lipulekh and Limpiyadhura as Nepali territories.

Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has alleged that India wants to topple his government after he issued the new Nepal map that shows Indian territories of Kalapani, Lipulekh and Limpiyadhura as Nepali territories. Speaking at an event in Kathmandu, Nepal PM said, "listen to the media in Delhi..activities have been stepped up in hotels and at the Indian mission (In Kathmandu) suggests what's happening... If anyone dreams of unseating the prime minister of this country for publishing the map and including the map in the constitution...Don't even think of it!" Also read: Nepal to reopen its second border point with China for supply of essential goods Calling it an attempt to overthrow this "illusion", Nepal PM highlighted how his government was toppled in the past for signing transit agreement with China. The comments come amid mounting pressure on Oli within his party and in the country over failures at several fronts including inaction on dealing COVID crisis and corruption charges. Also read: Nepal: 21 patients escape COVID quarantine facility; 593 fresh cases recorded Their were several protest all across Nepal over many of these issues. At the standing committee meeting of the ruling Nepal communist party, Oli faced criticism from Pushpa Kamal Dahal who is the co-chair of the party. Oli's comments against India are not new, and in the past, he as alleged the COVID cases in his country are due to the number of people coming from India to which New Delhi had expressed surprised.

India trying to topple Nepal's government, says Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli

India on Saturday questioned the intent of Pakistan's proposal on the opening of the Kartarpur corridor saying two-day notice period to open the corridor goes against the bilateral agreement that provides for the seven day notice period.

India on Saturday questioned the intent of Pakistan's proposal on the opening of the Kartarpur corridor saying two-day notice period to open the corridor goes against the bilateral agreement that provides for the seven day notice period. Indian government sources said, " It is to be noted that Pakistan is trying to create a mirage of goodwill by proposing to resume Kartarpur corridor on 29 June at the short notice of 2 days" Explaining "bilateral Agreement provides for information to be shared by India with Pakistan side at least 7 days before the date of travel. This would need India to open up the registration process well in advance." Cross border travel has been temporarily suspended as part of measures to prevent the spread of coronavirus by India. New Delhi will take "further view would be taken in consultation with health authorities and other stakeholders concerned" like the home ministry. Sources also highlighted, "Pakistan has not built the bridge on their side across the flood plains of Ravi river despite having committed to it in the bilateral agreement. With the advent of monsoon, it would need to be evaluated whether pilgrim movement is possible through the corridor in a safe and secure manner." India has also expressed concerns over Pakistan limiting the corridor to Sikh pilgrims while under the agreement it is supposed to be open for all Indian pilgrims and those holding OCI cards. Pakistani Foreign Ministry Shah Mahmood Qureshi in a tweet said, "As places of worship open up across the world, Pakistan prepares to reopen the Kartarpur Sahib Corridor for all Sikh pilgrims, conveying to the Indian side our readiness to reopen the corridor on 29 June 2020, the occasion of the death anniversary of Maharaja Ranjeet Singh." Pakistan says it has invited India to work out necessary Standard Operating procedure (SOP) for reopening of the Corridor. The operations at the corridor were suspended in March after India and Pakistan announced countrywide lockdown to deal with COVID crisis. In November 2018, India, Pakistan announced the establishment of a direct border-crossing linking Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Kartarpur, the final resting place of Sikh faith founder Guru Nanak, to Dera Baba Nanak in Punjab's Gurdaspur district. Kartarpur is located in Pakistan's Narowal district across the Ravi river, about four km from Dera Baba Nanak, India. After three meetings between Indian and Pakistani officials in March, July, September of 2019 to decide the modalities the corridor was inaugurated in November 2019 on the occasion of 550th Birth Anniversary of Baba Guru Nanak.

Kartarpur corridor reopening: Pak going against bilateral commitments, creating mirage of goodwill, says India

Intelligence alarm bells have rung after more than 200 youth from Jammu and Kashmir with Pakistani visa have been found missing with authorities fearing that Pakistan has been trying to train them to create trouble in the Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir.

Pakistan&nbsp;high commission since January 2017 has given Pakistani visas to 399 youth from J&amp;K, of which whereabouts of 218 are unknown.

Intel sources told WION, "Pakistan has been targeting the youth from J&amp;K by training, equipping and arming them to carry out terrorist attacks in J&amp;K" on the lines of Pulwama attack of 14th February 2019. While Pakistan has been training youth from the Union territory for terror attacks but later claiming that they are ‘local resistance fighters’.&nbsp;

India had thwarted many incidents in the past few months with terrorists who had infiltrated back going to Pakistan on the visa issued by the mission in Delhi.

Security forces had neutralised five&nbsp;terrorists on April 5. Among the five terrorists eliminated -- three, Adil Hussain Mir, Umar Nazir Khan and Sajjad Ahmed Hurrah were from J&amp;K and had travelled to Pakistan in April 2018 on visa issued by the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi.

India earlier this week had announced that it will reduce the staff strength of Pakistan Hgh commission in New Delhi by 50 per cent&nbsp;since it was "engaged in acts of espionage" and "maintained dealings with terrorist organisations".

In case of apprehension of DSP, J&amp;K Police Devender Singh along with Hizbul Mujahideen terrorists -- Naveed Babu and Asif Ahmad the NIA in its investigation found one assistant at Pakistan high commission Shafaqat was in touch with them and was the main conduit for hawala transactions.

In another case, name of Mudassar Iqbal Cheema, the First Secretary Press at the Pakistani mission came up during NIA investigation in the J&amp;K terror funding case.

Cheema, who was at the mission from September 2015 to November 2016, had given Zahoor Ahmad Shah Watali, the main accused in the case Rs 70 lacs in 2 instalments. Watali was the main conduit to send money to Hurriyat leaders from the Pakistani high commission.

Pakistani officials have also been found in espionage activity. On 31st May, 2 Pakistani high commission officials were caught red-handed trying to indulge in espionage activity in the heart of Delhi in Karol Bagh. Both were expelled within 24 hours. WION was the first channel to break that story.

Intelligence alarm bells have rung after more than 200 youth from Jammu and Kashmir with Pakistani visa have been found missing with authorities fearing that Pakistan has been trying to train them to create trouble in the Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir.

Intelligence alarm bells have rung after more than 200 youth from Jammu and Kashmir with Pakistani visa have been found missing with authorities fearing that Pakistan has been trying to train them to create trouble in the Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir. Pakistan high commission since January 2017 has given Pakistani visas to 399 youth from J&K, of which whereabouts of 218 are unknown. Intel sources told WION, "Pakistan has been targeting the youth from J&K by training, equipping and arming them to carry out terrorist attacks in J&K" on the lines of Pulwama attack of 14th February 2019. While Pakistan has been training youth from the Union territory for terror attacks but later claiming that they are ‘local resistance fighters’. India had thwarted many incidents in the past few months with terrorists who had infiltrated back going to Pakistan on the visa issued by the mission in Delhi. Security forces had neutralised five terrorists on April 5. Among the five terrorists eliminated -- three, Adil Hussain Mir, Umar Nazir Khan and Sajjad Ahmed Hurrah were from J&K and had travelled to Pakistan in April 2018 on visa issued by the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi. India earlier this week had announced that it will reduce the staff strength of Pakistan Hgh commission in New Delhi by 50 per cent since it was "engaged in acts of espionage" and "maintained dealings with terrorist organisations". In case of apprehension of DSP, J&K Police Devender Singh along with Hizbul Mujahideen terrorists -- Naveed Babu and Asif Ahmad the NIA in its investigation found one assistant at Pakistan high commission Shafaqat was in touch with them and was the main conduit for hawala transactions. In another case, name of Mudassar Iqbal Cheema, the First Secretary Press at the Pakistani mission came up during NIA investigation in the J&K terror funding case. Cheema, who was at the mission from September 2015 to November 2016, had given Zahoor Ahmad Shah Watali, the main accused in the case Rs 70 lacs in 2 instalments. Watali was the main conduit to send money to Hurriyat leaders from the Pakistani high commission. Pakistani officials have also been found in espionage activity. On 31st May, 2 Pakistani high commission officials were caught red-handed trying to indulge in espionage activity in the heart of Delhi in Karol Bagh. Both were expelled within 24 hours. WION was the first channel to break that story.

Over 200 missing youth with Pakistan visa alarm Indian intelligence

India and Russia have agreed to resolve issues around the production of Ka-226T and AK203 projects and fast track it. Fast-tracking for the production of Ka 226T and AK203 was discussed during Indian defence minister visit to Moscow earlier this week.&nbsp;

Sources told WION, "The parties have resolved and will make all efforts to fast-track the launching of these projects".

Ka-226 T helicopter project announced in 2014 is expected to replace Indian army's light utility helicopters Cheetah and Chetek. The main aim of the project is on "Make in India" production of KA 22T helicopters with Indian companies expected to take large scale part in the project. Many of local Indian vendors are expected to become the suppliers as the Russian-Indian joint venture has signed MoUs with a number of companies.

Sources said, “India will be able to receive some crucial helicopter technologies" with "integration of various helicopter systems being possible"&nbsp;

While the intergovernmental agreements were signed are a long time ago, a formal contract is still not signed and the actual project's launch is still pending.

Ka 226t will be produced at a factory in Bengaluru. The maximum speed of Ka226t is 220km/h and can carry a weight of 3600kg with a payload of 785 kg.

AK203 is the variant of Kalashnikov family of rifles and will be produced at the Indo Russia Rifles Private Limited (IRRPL) rifle manufacturing facility in Korwa, Amethi. Compared to earlier Kalashnikov rifles, AK203 is considered to have better accuracy.

The rifle has customizability due to use of the Picatinny rail, which enables instalment on the basic rifle of additional equipment and therefore can be quickly adapted for the various components of the Indian Forces. The gun has been already tested under the conditions of extreme heat and cold.

India and Russia have agreed to resolve issues around the production of Ka-226T and AK203 projects and fast track it. Fast-tracking for the production of Ka 226T and AK203 was discussed during Indian defence minister visit to Moscow earlier this week.

India and Russia have agreed to resolve issues around the production of Ka-226T and AK203 projects and fast track it. Fast-tracking for the production of Ka 226T and AK203 was discussed during Indian defence minister visit to Moscow earlier this week. Sources told WION, "The parties have resolved and will make all efforts to fast-track the launching of these projects". Ka-226 T helicopter project announced in 2014 is expected to replace Indian army's light utility helicopters Cheetah and Chetek. The main aim of the project is on "Make in India" production of KA 22T helicopters with Indian companies expected to take large scale part in the project. Many of local Indian vendors are expected to become the suppliers as the Russian-Indian joint venture has signed MoUs with a number of companies. Sources said, “India will be able to receive some crucial helicopter technologies" with "integration of various helicopter systems being possible" While the intergovernmental agreements were signed are a long time ago, a formal contract is still not signed and the actual project's launch is still pending. Ka 226t will be produced at a factory in Bengaluru. The maximum speed of Ka226t is 220km/h and can carry a weight of 3600kg with a payload of 785 kg. AK203 is the variant of Kalashnikov family of rifles and will be produced at the Indo Russia Rifles Private Limited (IRRPL) rifle manufacturing facility in Korwa, Amethi. Compared to earlier Kalashnikov rifles, AK203 is considered to have better accuracy. The rifle has customizability due to use of the Picatinny rail, which enables instalment on the basic rifle of additional equipment and therefore can be quickly adapted for the various components of the Indian Forces. The gun has been already tested under the conditions of extreme heat and cold.

India, Russia to fast track Ka-226T chopper and AK203 rifle production; India to receive helicopter technology

The wife of kidnapped Afghan Sikh has written to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi requesting assistance from the Indian government for the release of her husband. Nidan Singh Sachdeva was kidnapped on June 17 from Chamkani, Paktia in eastern Afghanistan.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/afghanistan/sikh-abducted-in-afghanistan-afghan-american-sikhs-seek-indias-support-307775">Also Read:&nbsp;Sikh abducted in Afghanistan, Afghan American Sikhs seek India's support</a>

Mahrwanti wrote to India's prime minister on 25th June saying, "Government&nbsp;of India is requested to provide us appropriate assistance and take appropriate action as deemed fit".

"I request you to kindly repatriate him back to New Delhi immediately after his release and grant us Indian citizenship at the earliest," she added.&nbsp;

Nidan Singh was kidnapped from Gurdwara Tala Sahib, Chamkani in Afghanistan. He was there to maintain the Gurdwara where according to history Guru Nanak Dev, founder of Sikhism had visited. &nbsp;He was the lone person managing and performing community service in the Gurudwara.&nbsp;

Singh and his family of 6 - wife, two&nbsp;sons and three&nbsp;daughters had moved to India in 1992 due to civil unrest in Afghanistan and have been staying in New Delhi as refugees. While the identity of abductors is not known, Paktia is the epicentre of the Taliban and has been a safe haven for terror groups like the Haqqani network.&nbsp;

He was a cook by profession in Delhi and used to earn a livelihood by undertaking meal orders for langar community kitchens.&nbsp;

India had "strongly condemn" the abduction of Nidan Singh with the ministry of external affairs in a release saying, "The targeting and persecution of the minority community members by terrorists at the behest of their external supporters is a matter of grave concern."

The Indian government is in touch with the Afghan government on the issue and is hoping the "government of Afghanistan would be able to secure safe and early release of Nidan Singh.”, MEA said.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

The wife of kidnapped Afghan Sikh has written to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi requesting assistance from the Indian government for the release of her husband.

The wife of kidnapped Afghan Sikh has written to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi requesting assistance from the Indian government for the release of her husband. Nidan Singh Sachdeva was kidnapped on June 17 from Chamkani, Paktia in eastern Afghanistan. Also Read: Sikh abducted in Afghanistan, Afghan American Sikhs seek India's support Mahrwanti wrote to India's prime minister on 25th June saying, "Government of India is requested to provide us appropriate assistance and take appropriate action as deemed fit". "I request you to kindly repatriate him back to New Delhi immediately after his release and grant us Indian citizenship at the earliest," she added. Nidan Singh was kidnapped from Gurdwara Tala Sahib, Chamkani in Afghanistan. He was there to maintain the Gurdwara where according to history Guru Nanak Dev, founder of Sikhism had visited. He was the lone person managing and performing community service in the Gurudwara. Singh and his family of 6 - wife, two sons and three daughters had moved to India in 1992 due to civil unrest in Afghanistan and have been staying in New Delhi as refugees. While the identity of abductors is not known, Paktia is the epicentre of the Taliban and has been a safe haven for terror groups like the Haqqani network. He was a cook by profession in Delhi and used to earn a livelihood by undertaking meal orders for langar community kitchens. India had "strongly condemn" the abduction of Nidan Singh with the ministry of external affairs in a release saying, "The targeting and persecution of the minority community members by terrorists at the behest of their external supporters is a matter of grave concern." The Indian government is in touch with the Afghan government on the issue and is hoping the "government of Afghanistan would be able to secure safe and early release of Nidan Singh.”, MEA said.

Wife of kidnapped Afghan Sikh writes to PM Modi; calls for granting Indian citizenship

German state government has slammed Pakistan on its proliferation record. According to a report by the&nbsp;southwest German state of Baden-Württemberg,&nbsp;Pakistan continues to engage in the proliferation of nuclear weapons of mass destruction and is trying to obtain know-how through illegal procurement from the country.&nbsp;

Annual report by the Office for the Protection of the Constitution of Baden-Württemberg said, “Iran, Pakistan, North Korea and Syria are still pursuing such efforts. They aim to complete existing arsenals, perfect the range, deployability and effectiveness of their weapons and develop new weapons systems. They are trying to obtain the necessary products and relevant know-how, inter alia, through illegal procurement efforts in Germany."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/coronavirus-black-market-flourishes-in-pakistan-as-greed-replaces-compassion-308356" hreflang="en">Coronavirus black market flourishes in Pakistan as greed replaces compassion</a>

The report that gives the key developments on proliferation front for last year and was released on June 16 said, "As one of the leading industrial nations and home to numerous high-tech companies", Germany is an important area of operation for these countries.&nbsp;

Pakistan has been under the scanner for nuclear proliferation. 2004 saw the country's nuclear architect AQ Khan confessing his role in global proliferation including supplying designs to countries like North Korea. On Pakistan, the report said, "the country's nuclear program is directed against arch-enemy&nbsp;India".

The report highlighted that in order to circumvent existing export restrictions and embargoes, the countries mentioned in the report have developed new procurement methods. Under these methods, they can procure goods in Germany and Europe with the help of "cover companies" and transport dual-use goods.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/new-delhi-planning-attack-on-islamabad-to-distract-from-china-row-pak-fms-latest-bizarre-claim-308339" hreflang="en">New Delhi planning attack on Islamabad to distract from China row: Pak FM's latest bizarre claim</a>

The report explained, "production and proliferation" of weapons of mass destruction is "serious threat to peace and international security" and authorities have the "goal of preventing risk states from building and developing weapons of mass destruction and corresponding carrier systems".

Potential proliferation sources of know-how, according to the report include universities, non-university research institutions and research and training departments of companies.

German state government has slammed Pakistan on its proliferation record. According to a report by the southwest German state of Baden-Württemberg, Pakistan continues to engage in the proliferation of nuclear weapons of mass destruction and is trying to obtain know-how through illegal procurement from the country.

German state government has slammed Pakistan on its proliferation record. According to a report by the southwest German state of Baden-Württemberg, Pakistan continues to engage in the proliferation of nuclear weapons of mass destruction and is trying to obtain know-how through illegal procurement from the country. Annual report by the Office for the Protection of the Constitution of Baden-Württemberg said, “Iran, Pakistan, North Korea and Syria are still pursuing such efforts. They aim to complete existing arsenals, perfect the range, deployability and effectiveness of their weapons and develop new weapons systems. They are trying to obtain the necessary products and relevant know-how, inter alia, through illegal procurement efforts in Germany." Also read: Coronavirus black market flourishes in Pakistan as greed replaces compassion The report that gives the key developments on proliferation front for last year and was released on June 16 said, "As one of the leading industrial nations and home to numerous high-tech companies", Germany is an important area of operation for these countries. Pakistan has been under the scanner for nuclear proliferation. 2004 saw the country's nuclear architect AQ Khan confessing his role in global proliferation including supplying designs to countries like North Korea. On Pakistan, the report said, "the country's nuclear program is directed against arch-enemy India". The report highlighted that in order to circumvent existing export restrictions and embargoes, the countries mentioned in the report have developed new procurement methods. Under these methods, they can procure goods in Germany and Europe with the help of "cover companies" and transport dual-use goods. Also read: New Delhi planning attack on Islamabad to distract from China row: Pak FM's latest bizarre claim The report explained, "production and proliferation" of weapons of mass destruction is "serious threat to peace and international security" and authorities have the "goal of preventing risk states from building and developing weapons of mass destruction and corresponding carrier systems". Potential proliferation sources of know-how, according to the report include universities, non-university research institutions and research and training departments of companies.

German state govt slams Pakistan for trying to obtain nuclear know-how illegally

The flow of water from Bhutan to the Indian state of Assam continues with locals pitching in to make sure irrigation channels are maintained. Namgay Tshering the Bhutanese finance minister in a Facebook post has said, authorities in his country, "have been doing best to ensure the continuous supply of water to our farmer friends of India from Daifam-Udalguri, Samrang-Bhangtar, Motonga-BokaJulee and Samdrupjongkhar town - Patkikulee".

The finance minister's post began with "Neighbourhood first" and highlighted the "close friendship between the people of Bhutan &amp; India".

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Bhutanese side has been doing repairs in channels to ensure smooth flow of water to Assam. The Bhutanese authorities-- District Administration, Subdivision Administration, Mayor Office, members of the COVID19 task force, volunteers from government servants, members of local communities of Bhutan have been doing this for last 3 months so that water supplies to the Indian state continue.

Earlier the irrigation channel used to be maintained by farmers from across the border. However, due to COVID-19 situation and restrictions on movement across the border, the irrigation channel was not able to maintain. The Bhutanese officials and local communities then stepped to maintain the irrigation Channels.

Jomotshangkha dungkhag, which is Bhutanese sub-district that borders Assam, maintains irrigation canals for Indian farmers. According to the local authorities, so far nine irrigation channels and two drinking water sources have been maintained which have been supplying adequate water to the Indian side.

The flow of water from Bhutan to the Indian state of Assam continues with locals pitching in to make sure irrigation channels are maintained. Namgay Tshering the Bhutanese finance minister in a Facebook post has said, authorities in his country, "have been doing best to ensure the continuous supply of water to our farmer friends of India from Daifam-Udalguri, Samrang-Bhangtar, Motonga-BokaJulee and Samdrupjongkhar town - Patkikulee".

The flow of water from Bhutan to the Indian state of Assam continues with locals pitching in to make sure irrigation channels are maintained. Namgay Tshering the Bhutanese finance minister in a Facebook post has said, authorities in his country, "have been doing best to ensure the continuous supply of water to our farmer friends of India from Daifam-Udalguri, Samrang-Bhangtar, Motonga-BokaJulee and Samdrupjongkhar town - Patkikulee". The finance minister's post began with "Neighbourhood first" and highlighted the "close friendship between the people of Bhutan & India". × Bhutanese side has been doing repairs in channels to ensure smooth flow of water to Assam. The Bhutanese authorities-- District Administration, Subdivision Administration, Mayor Office, members of the COVID19 task force, volunteers from government servants, members of local communities of Bhutan have been doing this for last 3 months so that water supplies to the Indian state continue. Earlier the irrigation channel used to be maintained by farmers from across the border. However, due to COVID-19 situation and restrictions on movement across the border, the irrigation channel was not able to maintain. The Bhutanese officials and local communities then stepped to maintain the irrigation Channels. Jomotshangkha dungkhag, which is Bhutanese sub-district that borders Assam, maintains irrigation canals for Indian farmers. According to the local authorities, so far nine irrigation channels and two drinking water sources have been maintained which have been supplying adequate water to the Indian side.

Bhutanese authorities pitch in to make sure flow of water to India continues

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Zee News Rajasthan

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Sidhant Sibal

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