Ahead of US President Donald Trump's India, a village few kilometres away from Delhi is abuzz with activity. The village, located in Haryana's Gurugram, is named after former US President Jimmy Carter and is called Carterpuri. The village was visited by former President Carter on January 3, 1978, along with his wife Rosalynn Carter.

Atack Singh Baghel, who was 24 when Carter came to the village, told WION, "It was festivity in the village when he came. He called on village panchayat and presented the proposal of renaming the village Carterpuri".

Carter had visited the village since his mother Lillian Gordy Carter had been stationed in the village in the 1960s as a social worker.

Kartar Singh Baghel, Atack's elder brother said, "communication continued between the white house and the village for a long time later." "It became a personal relationship and we used to tell, a man from this village is in the white house," he added.&nbsp;

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Later that month, Jimmy Carter wrote to Bup Singh Yada, headman of Carterpuri saying, "I very much appreciated the warm hospitality and friendship which you and all the people of Carterpuri extended to me when I visited your village".

Thanking further, he said, "It was, without doubt, one of the high points of my entire foreign travel and represented an experience I shall not soon forget".

The former First Lady also wrote to Carterpuri, saying "Jimmy and I were pleased to receive the lovely gifts on the occasion of our visit to India. They will always remind us of our wonderful time in Carterpuri... thank you so much for these gifts and for your gracious hospitality"

Carter was the third US president to visit India.

The entire next generation of Carterpuri village has grown up with the memories of former US President Jimmy Carter's India visit.

A villager named Ritu told WION, "Many people have been telling about his visit. There are many such memories here in the village. He was welcomed with great joy".&nbsp;

Ahead of US President Donald Trump's India, a village few kilometres away from Delhi is abuzz with activity. The village, located in Haryana's Gurugram, is named after former US President Jimmy Carter and is called Carterpuri.

Ahead of US President Donald Trump's India, a village few kilometres away from Delhi is abuzz with activity. The village, located in Haryana's Gurugram, is named after former US President Jimmy Carter and is called Carterpuri. The village was visited by former President Carter on January 3, 1978, along with his wife Rosalynn Carter. Atack Singh Baghel, who was 24 when Carter came to the village, told WION, "It was festivity in the village when he came. He called on village panchayat and presented the proposal of renaming the village Carterpuri". Carter had visited the village since his mother Lillian Gordy Carter had been stationed in the village in the 1960s as a social worker. Kartar Singh Baghel, Atack's elder brother said, "communication continued between the white house and the village for a long time later." "It became a personal relationship and we used to tell, a man from this village is in the white house," he added. × Later that month, Jimmy Carter wrote to Bup Singh Yada, headman of Carterpuri saying, "I very much appreciated the warm hospitality and friendship which you and all the people of Carterpuri extended to me when I visited your village". Thanking further, he said, "It was, without doubt, one of the high points of my entire foreign travel and represented an experience I shall not soon forget". The former First Lady also wrote to Carterpuri, saying "Jimmy and I were pleased to receive the lovely gifts on the occasion of our visit to India. They will always remind us of our wonderful time in Carterpuri... thank you so much for these gifts and for your gracious hospitality" Carter was the third US president to visit India. The entire next generation of Carterpuri village has grown up with the memories of former US President Jimmy Carter's India visit. A villager named Ritu told WION, "Many people have been telling about his visit. There are many such memories here in the village. He was welcomed with great joy".

Carterpuri, an Indian village named after former US President 

Washington is looking for Indian support as it sets to sign the peace accord with the Taliban on February 29.&nbsp;

A senior US administration official said, "But we certainly would look to India to support this peace process - an important country in the region, important to the overall stability of the region."

The official explained, "we would just encourage India, as we are all regional countries, to do whatever it can to support this peace process so that it can be successful and we can potentially end 19 years of military, diplomatic, economic engagement."

Adding, "You know, that we can end the military engagement. We will be continuing our diplomatic and economic engagement, which has been there over the last 19 years."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-taliban-expected-to-sign-peace-deal-on-february-29-mike-pompeo-282024">US, Taliban expected to sign peace deal on February 29 - Mike Pompeo</a>

As part of the agreement, a reduction of violence plan kicked off on Friday midnight Kabul time and will last for seven days.

When asked if Afghanistan will come up during US President's, especially on Indian troops, the official said, "I think if the issue comes up, that is what would be the request from the President."

India has made it clear that it will never send troops to the landlocked South Asian country.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-deputy-leader-says-committed-to-peace-in-op-ed-281883">Taliban deputy leader says 'committed' to peace in op-ed</a>

Asked about the US Taliban agreement, Amar Sinha, India's former envoy to Afghanistan said, "India and other regional partners have an important role now in exerting themselves with all political personalities in Afghanistan to retain unity and a common sense of purpose."

He said, "Seems the agreement with the US may be signed on 29 Feb if the reduction of violence holds this week. So a week that would test Taliban intentions and ability to offer peace to its Afghan brethren."

Adding, "More problematic is the shape and composition of the intra Afghan talks since the politics in Kabul has got further complicated."

New Delhi is a major development partner of Kabul and is helping in infrastructure development in Afghanistan and has built the Parliament building in Kabul and India-Afghanistan friendship dam in the western province of Herat. &nbsp;

Washington is looking for Indian support as it sets to sign the peace accord with the Taliban on February 29. A senior US administration official said, "But we certainly would look to India to support this peace process - an important country in the region, important to the overall stability of the region.

Washington is looking for Indian support as it sets to sign the peace accord with the Taliban on February 29. A senior US administration official said, "But we certainly would look to India to support this peace process - an important country in the region, important to the overall stability of the region." The official explained, "we would just encourage India, as we are all regional countries, to do whatever it can to support this peace process so that it can be successful and we can potentially end 19 years of military, diplomatic, economic engagement." Adding, "You know, that we can end the military engagement. We will be continuing our diplomatic and economic engagement, which has been there over the last 19 years." Also read: US, Taliban expected to sign peace deal on February 29 - Mike Pompeo As part of the agreement, a reduction of violence plan kicked off on Friday midnight Kabul time and will last for seven days. When asked if Afghanistan will come up during US President's, especially on Indian troops, the official said, "I think if the issue comes up, that is what would be the request from the President." India has made it clear that it will never send troops to the landlocked South Asian country. Also read: Taliban deputy leader says 'committed' to peace in op-ed Asked about the US Taliban agreement, Amar Sinha, India's former envoy to Afghanistan said, "India and other regional partners have an important role now in exerting themselves with all political personalities in Afghanistan to retain unity and a common sense of purpose." He said, "Seems the agreement with the US may be signed on 29 Feb if the reduction of violence holds this week. So a week that would test Taliban intentions and ability to offer peace to its Afghan brethren." Adding, "More problematic is the shape and composition of the intra Afghan talks since the politics in Kabul has got further complicated." New Delhi is a major development partner of Kabul and is helping in infrastructure development in Afghanistan and has built the Parliament building in Kabul and India-Afghanistan friendship dam in the western province of Herat.

Washington looks for Indian support ahead of Taliban-US deal

No clearance has been given by the Chinese government yet for the relief material India wanted to send to Wuhan. India also wants to bring back another batch of Indian students from the coronavirus-hit city.

Sources told WION, India is ready to send relief package as mentioned in the PM's letter to Chinese President Xi Jinping to deal with the coronavirus epidemic but there is "some reluctance by the Chinese side to give clearance" which New Delhi is "unable to figure out".&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-confirms-two-more-deaths-among-13-new-coronavirus-cases-282011">Iran confirms two more deaths among 13 new coronavirus cases</a>

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Adding, there is "unexplainable silence" on the part of the Chinese government as to why clearance is not given.

India is ready with Indian Air Force's C17 with relief supplies for China and to bring back many of its over 100 nationals in the Chinese city which has been the epicentre of the coronavirus outbreak. The flight is expected to bring back foreign nationals as well.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/death-toll-in-chinas-coronavirus-rise-south-korea-confirms-more-cases-281895">Death toll in China's coronavirus rise; South Korea confirms more cases</a>

PM Modi in his letter to the Chinese President earlier this month expressed solidarity with China and had indicated that New Delhi is ready for any assistance to Beijing to deal with the coronavirus epidemic.

Two Air India flights, on January 31 and February 1, brought back more than 640 Indians and 7 Maldivian citizens. &nbsp;

No clearance has been given by the Chinese government yet for the relief material India wanted to send to Wuhan. India also wants to bring back another batch of Indian students from the coronavirus-hit city.

No clearance has been given by the Chinese government yet for the relief material India wanted to send to Wuhan. India also wants to bring back another batch of Indian students from the coronavirus-hit city. Sources told WION, India is ready to send relief package as mentioned in the PM's letter to Chinese President Xi Jinping to deal with the coronavirus epidemic but there is "some reluctance by the Chinese side to give clearance" which New Delhi is "unable to figure out". Also read: Iran confirms two more deaths among 13 new coronavirus cases × Adding, there is "unexplainable silence" on the part of the Chinese government as to why clearance is not given. India is ready with Indian Air Force's C17 with relief supplies for China and to bring back many of its over 100 nationals in the Chinese city which has been the epicentre of the coronavirus outbreak. The flight is expected to bring back foreign nationals as well. Also read: Death toll in China's coronavirus rise; South Korea confirms more cases PM Modi in his letter to the Chinese President earlier this month expressed solidarity with China and had indicated that New Delhi is ready for any assistance to Beijing to deal with the coronavirus epidemic. Two Air India flights, on January 31 and February 1, brought back more than 640 Indians and 7 Maldivian citizens.

No clearance yet by Beijing for India's relief assistance to China 

Bangladesh's new High Commissioner to India Muhammad Imran has said ties between New Delhi and Dhaka are passing through a "golden chapter".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-expresses-confidence-in-india-bangladesh-ties-says-both-working-shoulder-to-shoulder-269579">Also Read:&nbsp;PM Modi expresses confidence in India-Bangladesh</a>

Speaking to WION on the sidelines of Language Martyrs' Day being celebrated at Bangladesh High Commission, High Commissioner Muhammad Imran said, "Bangladesh-India are passing through the golden chapter and during my tenure, I will take it to greater heights."

Language Martyrs' Day or Language Movement Day is marked every year in Bangladesh on February 21. The day in 1952 saw massive protests in then east Pakistan over the imposition of Urdu by West Pakistan leading to many deaths.

Elaborating about the Language Martyrs' Day, the high commissioner said," It is one of the most important days in our history. On February 21, 1952, people sacrificed lives on the streets of Dhaka. From then onwards, we celebrate this day, we observe this day as Martyrs'&nbsp;day. It was an inspiration for our independence and our father of nation Sheikh Mujibur Rahman participated in this movement and he guided the nation towards independence."

In 1999 UNESCO declared the day as international Mothers Language Day.

The high commissioner added, "spirit is we should not let any language to die because languages are reservoirs of tangible and intangible heritage of mankind, so we must take care of every language of the world and on this day, I urge let us protect smaller languages especially because they are more vulnerable."&nbsp;

The comments on India-Bangladesh ties comes weeks before PM Modi is expected to visit Bangladesh.

Bangladesh's new High Commissioner to India Muhammad Imran has said ties between New Delhi and Dhaka are passing through a "golden chapter". Also Read: PM Modi expresses confidence in India-Bangladesh Speaking to WION on the sidelines of Language Martyrs' Day being celebrated at Bangladesh High Commission, High Commissioner Muhammad Imran said, "Bangladesh-India are passing through the golden chapter and during my tenure, I will take it to greater heights.

Bangladesh's new High Commissioner to India Muhammad Imran has said ties between New Delhi and Dhaka are passing through a "golden chapter". Also Read: PM Modi expresses confidence in India-Bangladesh Speaking to WION on the sidelines of Language Martyrs' Day being celebrated at Bangladesh High Commission, High Commissioner Muhammad Imran said, "Bangladesh-India are passing through the golden chapter and during my tenure, I will take it to greater heights." Language Martyrs' Day or Language Movement Day is marked every year in Bangladesh on February 21. The day in 1952 saw massive protests in then east Pakistan over the imposition of Urdu by West Pakistan leading to many deaths. Elaborating about the Language Martyrs' Day, the high commissioner said," It is one of the most important days in our history. On February 21, 1952, people sacrificed lives on the streets of Dhaka. From then onwards, we celebrate this day, we observe this day as Martyrs' day. It was an inspiration for our independence and our father of nation Sheikh Mujibur Rahman participated in this movement and he guided the nation towards independence." In 1999 UNESCO declared the day as international Mothers Language Day. The high commissioner added, "spirit is we should not let any language to die because languages are reservoirs of tangible and intangible heritage of mankind, so we must take care of every language of the world and on this day, I urge let us protect smaller languages especially because they are more vulnerable." The comments on India-Bangladesh ties comes weeks before PM Modi is expected to visit Bangladesh.

Golden chapter in India-Bangladesh ties underway, says new High Commissioner Muhammad Imran

Ahead of US President Donald Trump's visit, India has said that both sides don't want to rush into a trade deal and the deal is not stuck.&nbsp;

A government source told WION that "both sides want to reach an understanding with outcomes that balance both sides" and US and India "don't want to rush into the deal as the issues are complicated with many decisions having an impact on people's lives and long term economic consequences".

The source added, "we look to the future and seek to achieve a win-win solution for both side" and as we do that, we don't want comprises and are "not in a hurry to rush into a trade deal on the eve of the visit".

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ahead-of-trumps-agra-visit-500-cusecs-of-water-released-into-yamuna-to-tackle-foul-smell-281629">Ahead of Trump's Agra visit, 500 cusecs of water released into Yamuna to tackle 'foul smell'</a>

Asked, if the deal is stuck, the source said, "not correct to say India-US trade deal is stuck. It is an ongoing process. Both ministers have agreed to talk and look at a larger Free trade agreement".

Earlier today, US President Trump said, he looks forward to a major trade deal later.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/trump-signals-very-big-trade-deal-with-india-before-us-presidential-elections-281582">Trump signals 'very big' trade deal with India before US presidential elections</a>

Trump said, "Well, we can have a trade deal with India, but I’m really saving the big deal for later on. We’re doing a very big trade deal with India. We’ll have it. I don’t know if it’ll be done before the election, but we’ll have a very big deal with India."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/preparations-in-full-swing-ahead-of-us-president-donald-trumps-india-visit-281468">India to spend Rs 1.5 crore a minute during US president's Ahmedabad visit</a>

India-US trade has been growing more than 10 per cent per annum over the past 2 years and the trade deficit has been declining and expected to reduce as New Delhi imports more US oil and gas and purchase of civilian planes. The US is India's 6th largest importer of crude oil and India is now its 4th largest customer.

India is also keen that US restores Generalized System of Preferences (GSP), which is Washington's largest and oldest US trade preference program which was withdrawn last year for India.

Ahead of US President Donald Trump's visit, India has said that both sides don't want to rush into a trade deal and the deal is not stuck. A government source told WION that "both sides want to reach an understanding with outcomes that balance both sides" and US and India "don't want to rush into the deal as the issues are complicated with many decisions having an impact on people's lives and long term economic consequences".

Ahead of US President Donald Trump's visit, India has said that both sides don't want to rush into a trade deal and the deal is not stuck. A government source told WION that "both sides want to reach an understanding with outcomes that balance both sides" and US and India "don't want to rush into the deal as the issues are complicated with many decisions having an impact on people's lives and long term economic consequences". The source added, "we look to the future and seek to achieve a win-win solution for both side" and as we do that, we don't want comprises and are "not in a hurry to rush into a trade deal on the eve of the visit". Also read: Ahead of Trump's Agra visit, 500 cusecs of water released into Yamuna to tackle 'foul smell' Asked, if the deal is stuck, the source said, "not correct to say India-US trade deal is stuck. It is an ongoing process. Both ministers have agreed to talk and look at a larger Free trade agreement". Earlier today, US President Trump said, he looks forward to a major trade deal later. Also read: Trump signals 'very big' trade deal with India before US presidential elections Trump said, "Well, we can have a trade deal with India, but I’m really saving the big deal for later on. We’re doing a very big trade deal with India. We’ll have it. I don’t know if it’ll be done before the election, but we’ll have a very big deal with India." Also read: India to spend Rs 1.5 crore a minute during US president's Ahmedabad visit India-US trade has been growing more than 10 per cent per annum over the past 2 years and the trade deficit has been declining and expected to reduce as New Delhi imports more US oil and gas and purchase of civilian planes. The US is India's 6th largest importer of crude oil and India is now its 4th largest customer. India is also keen that US restores Generalized System of Preferences (GSP), which is Washington's largest and oldest US trade preference program which was withdrawn last year for India.

'Not in a hurry for a trade deal,' says India ahead of Trump's visit

Indian Navy is scaling up its cooperation with Myanmar and has offered training of the personnel of the country's Navy. The offer was made during Navy Chief Admiral Karambir Singh's visit to the neighbouring country from February 17 to 20.

During the visit, Admiral Karambir Singh held talks with Commander-in-Chief of Myanmar's Navy Admiral Tin Aung San and called on Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services Senior General Min Aung Hlaing. He also met with the political leadership and called on State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi.

Myanmar Navy is a member of the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS) and participates in the activities conducted under its construct.

Admiral Karambir Singh also interacted with the trainees of National Defence College in Myanmar's capital Nay Pyi Taw and visited the Naval Dockyard and Training Command of the Myanmar Navy in Yangon.

Both Indian and Myanmar's Navy interact with each other through the medium of staff talks, Joint Working Group Meeting on Maritime Cooperation and other operational interactions which include port visits, coordinated Patrols, bilateral exercises, training and hydrography. 
&nbsp;

Indian Navy is scaling up its cooperation with Myanmar and has offered training of the personnel of the country's Navy. The offer was made during Navy Chief Admiral Karambir Singh's visit to the neighbouring country from February 17 to 20.

Indian Navy is scaling up its cooperation with Myanmar and has offered training of the personnel of the country's Navy. The offer was made during Navy Chief Admiral Karambir Singh's visit to the neighbouring country from February 17 to 20. During the visit, Admiral Karambir Singh held talks with Commander-in-Chief of Myanmar's Navy Admiral Tin Aung San and called on Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services Senior General Min Aung Hlaing. He also met with the political leadership and called on State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi. Myanmar Navy is a member of the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS) and participates in the activities conducted under its construct. Admiral Karambir Singh also interacted with the trainees of National Defence College in Myanmar's capital Nay Pyi Taw and visited the Naval Dockyard and Training Command of the Myanmar Navy in Yangon. Both Indian and Myanmar's Navy interact with each other through the medium of staff talks, Joint Working Group Meeting on Maritime Cooperation and other operational interactions which include port visits, coordinated Patrols, bilateral exercises, training and hydrography.

Indian Navy to scale up training of Myanmar Navy personnel 

China has hoped India will review the measures on people-to-people movement put in by New Delhi in the aftermath of the coronavirus outbreak&nbsp;

Speaking in New Delhi, Chinese envoy Sun Weidong said, we "hope the Indian side could review the epidemic situation in an objective, rational and calm manner" and implement "the consensus and instructions of the two leaders... resume personal normal exchanges and trade between the two countries".

In a revised travel advisory for coronavirus, India's health ministry had advised Indians to refrain from travelling to China. Also, in the case of travel, on return from China, people could face a quarantine.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-cases-top-500-on-cruise-ship-off-japan-281384">Coronavirus cases top 500 on cruise ship off Japan</a>

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The Chinese envoy also thanked the Indian side for the support. He said, "We appreciate and thank the solidarity and support rendered by India."

"At this difficult moment, I am deeply touched by the kindness of Indian friends and I can feel the sincere friendship between the two nations," he said.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Modi had sent a letter of condolence to Chinese President Xi Jinping and lauded the tremendous effort made by the Chinese government to deal with the coronavirus outbreak.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-outbreak-fresh-events-spark-a-fresh-round-of-bioweapon-theories-281412">Coronavirus outbreak - Fresh events spark another round of bioweapon theory</a>

The Chinese Embassy has established a contact mechanism with the Indian Health Ministry and is updating on the developments on the epidemic.

On the 80 Indians, mostly students, in Wuhan, the envoy said that his government is taking "good care" of them and the "universities have designated personnel to deliver masks and other protective materials to the students and send food and daily necessities to their residence regularly."&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

China has hoped India will review the measures on people-to-people movement put in by New Delhi in the aftermath of the coronavirus outbreak Speaking in New Delhi, Chinese envoy Sun Weidong said, we "hope the Indian side could review the epidemic situation in an objective, rational and calm manner" and implement "the consensus and instructions of the two leaders.

China has hoped India will review the measures on people-to-people movement put in by New Delhi in the aftermath of the coronavirus outbreak Speaking in New Delhi, Chinese envoy Sun Weidong said, we "hope the Indian side could review the epidemic situation in an objective, rational and calm manner" and implement "the consensus and instructions of the two leaders... resume personal normal exchanges and trade between the two countries". In a revised travel advisory for coronavirus, India's health ministry had advised Indians to refrain from travelling to China. Also, in the case of travel, on return from China, people could face a quarantine. Also read: Coronavirus cases top 500 on cruise ship off Japan × The Chinese envoy also thanked the Indian side for the support. He said, "We appreciate and thank the solidarity and support rendered by India." "At this difficult moment, I am deeply touched by the kindness of Indian friends and I can feel the sincere friendship between the two nations," he said. Prime Minister Modi had sent a letter of condolence to Chinese President Xi Jinping and lauded the tremendous effort made by the Chinese government to deal with the coronavirus outbreak. Also read: Coronavirus outbreak - Fresh events spark another round of bioweapon theory The Chinese Embassy has established a contact mechanism with the Indian Health Ministry and is updating on the developments on the epidemic. On the 80 Indians, mostly students, in Wuhan, the envoy said that his government is taking "good care" of them and the "universities have designated personnel to deliver masks and other protective materials to the students and send food and daily necessities to their residence regularly."

China asks India to review measures taken in the backdrop of coronavirus outbreak 

India has strongly protested ceasefire violation by Pakistan on Friday that killed one Indian citizen in Poonch sector of Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

In a note of protest to Pakistan High Commission, the Ministry of External Affairs condemned the "indiscriminate and deliberate firing of heavy calibre weapons including artillery and mortars" in which Pak forces targetted civilian areas. The note said such targetting of civilians areas is against all "established humanitarian norms and professional military conduct".

Indian civilian named Dadardin, who was a resident of Shahpur village, was killed due to Pak ceasefire violation. Two civilians were also injured in the ceasefire violation.

India, while asking Islamabad to investigate "heinous acts" of targeting innocent civilians, called it to instruct its forces to "desist from such acts immediately." New Delhi also raised its concern regarding Pak support to cross border infiltration of terrorists, "including through covering fire."

Pakistan forces have carried out more than 497 unprovoked ceasefire violations so far in 2020.&nbsp;

India has strongly protested ceasefire violation by Pakistan on Friday that killed one Indian citizen in Poonch sector of Jammu and Kashmir. In a note of protest to Pakistan High Commission, the Ministry of External Affairs condemned the "indiscriminate and deliberate firing of heavy calibre weapons including artillery and mortars" in which Pak forces targetted civilian areas.

India has strongly protested ceasefire violation by Pakistan on Friday that killed one Indian citizen in Poonch sector of Jammu and Kashmir. In a note of protest to Pakistan High Commission, the Ministry of External Affairs condemned the "indiscriminate and deliberate firing of heavy calibre weapons including artillery and mortars" in which Pak forces targetted civilian areas. The note said such targetting of civilians areas is against all "established humanitarian norms and professional military conduct". Indian civilian named Dadardin, who was a resident of Shahpur village, was killed due to Pak ceasefire violation. Two civilians were also injured in the ceasefire violation. India, while asking Islamabad to investigate "heinous acts" of targeting innocent civilians, called it to instruct its forces to "desist from such acts immediately." New Delhi also raised its concern regarding Pak support to cross border infiltration of terrorists, "including through covering fire." Pakistan forces have carried out more than 497 unprovoked ceasefire violations so far in 2020.

India protests ceasefire violation by Pakistan; calls killing of civilian against professional military conduct 

On January 31 and February 1, India led the evacuation of more than 650 people including 7 Maldivians from Wuhan, the epicentre of coronavirus than has killed many in China.&nbsp;

The operation was led by Air India's Captain Amitabh Singh. Speaking to WION, he narrated his experience and talked about what made this operation full of dangers.&nbsp;

WION: Your experience as you led this operation?

Captain Amitabh Singh: It was very challenging. And however, Air India has been involved in many evacuations earlier, we were able to pull this off very nicely. We were informed just a day and a half before evacuation was to start which was January 30. The biggest challenge initially was to get visas for all the crew, staff which were going. In fact, finally, we got our visas in the Mid Night, some of the crew got it next morning at about 7 am. The second challenge was to coordinate with ministries. Coordinating in short period. 3rd challenge was since it was a medical evacuation, it was an epidemic, obviously, we wanted to ensure the safety of our crew and staff and it was of paramount importance. 
&nbsp; 
WION: How was Wuhan&nbsp;and the ground situation in the city?

Captain Amitabh Singh: Normally, whenever you fly into the city, there is radiotelephonic chat and you are ready. Here, it was a deathly silence and we were the only aircraft flying in the air and no traffic delays. And before we landed, in fact, what we saw was the city was well lit up. But one vehicle insight, not one soul in sight, it was absolutely like a death city. And that was eerie and uncomfortable. And once we landed, the airport was in dark, we were the only aircraft that was moving and that was unique. When we parked and shut down the aircraft, only 2 people, who came to receive us and doors were closed till the authorities were satisfied that all the systems were in place.

WION: You took two flights back, what was the reaction of passengers?

Captain Amitabh Singh: The passengers were very very tired, they had been waiting for the flight for the past few hours. And they had travelled long distances and it took them 3 hours to go through immigration and customs and medical assessment. So it was a big relief, they were very tired and as they got on board it was a sigh of relief. And especially when they took off, we could see them clapping.&nbsp;

WION: Air India has led evacuations from Yemen, Libya, Nepal. What was different this time?

Captain Amitabh Singh: Air India has done a lot of evacuations from war-torn areas. They have also done evacuations due to natural disasters. But here the unique thing was an epidemic. And that was something that was worrisome. However, we had very good support from our own medical department, and from the ministry of health, doctors from Ram Manohar Lohia and Safardarjung hospitals were present to support us and none of us gets impacted. We had protective suits, we had masks, glasses everything.

WION: How is the crew, because the crew was put on a break?

Captain Amitabh Singh: Happy to tell u, we are all fine. For 7 days we were in-home quarantine. We are back in action. Some of the flight crew, not going to Europe and all at the moment, so doing just domestic flights and that is for 14 days and after that everything will be normal.

On January 31 and February 1, India led the evacuation of more than 650 people including 7 Maldivians from Wuhan, the epicentre of coronavirus than has killed many in China.

On January 31 and February 1, India led the evacuation of more than 650 people including 7 Maldivians from Wuhan, the epicentre of coronavirus than has killed many in China. The operation was led by Air India's Captain Amitabh Singh. Speaking to WION, he narrated his experience and talked about what made this operation full of dangers. WION: Your experience as you led this operation? Captain Amitabh Singh: It was very challenging. And however, Air India has been involved in many evacuations earlier, we were able to pull this off very nicely. We were informed just a day and a half before evacuation was to start which was January 30. The biggest challenge initially was to get visas for all the crew, staff which were going. In fact, finally, we got our visas in the Mid Night, some of the crew got it next morning at about 7 am. The second challenge was to coordinate with ministries. Coordinating in short period. 3rd challenge was since it was a medical evacuation, it was an epidemic, obviously, we wanted to ensure the safety of our crew and staff and it was of paramount importance. WION: How was Wuhan and the ground situation in the city? Captain Amitabh Singh: Normally, whenever you fly into the city, there is radiotelephonic chat and you are ready. Here, it was a deathly silence and we were the only aircraft flying in the air and no traffic delays. And before we landed, in fact, what we saw was the city was well lit up. But one vehicle insight, not one soul in sight, it was absolutely like a death city. And that was eerie and uncomfortable. And once we landed, the airport was in dark, we were the only aircraft that was moving and that was unique. When we parked and shut down the aircraft, only 2 people, who came to receive us and doors were closed till the authorities were satisfied that all the systems were in place. WION: You took two flights back, what was the reaction of passengers? Captain Amitabh Singh: The passengers were very very tired, they had been waiting for the flight for the past few hours. And they had travelled long distances and it took them 3 hours to go through immigration and customs and medical assessment. So it was a big relief, they were very tired and as they got on board it was a sigh of relief. And especially when they took off, we could see them clapping. WION: Air India has led evacuations from Yemen, Libya, Nepal. What was different this time? Captain Amitabh Singh: Air India has done a lot of evacuations from war-torn areas. They have also done evacuations due to natural disasters. But here the unique thing was an epidemic. And that was something that was worrisome. However, we had very good support from our own medical department, and from the ministry of health, doctors from Ram Manohar Lohia and Safardarjung hospitals were present to support us and none of us gets impacted. We had protective suits, we had masks, glasses everything. WION: How is the crew, because the crew was put on a break? Captain Amitabh Singh: Happy to tell u, we are all fine. For 7 days we were in-home quarantine. We are back in action. Some of the flight crew, not going to Europe and all at the moment, so doing just domestic flights and that is for 14 days and after that everything will be normal.

Man who led India's Wuhan evacuation operation speaks out; calls the city 'death city', operation a challenging one

India is all geared up as Pakistan is all set to raise Kashmir at the 43rd session of Human Rights Council that will take place in Geneva from February 24 to March 20.&nbsp;

Pakistani foreign minister SM Qureshi will be leading his country's delegation for the meet, with India also expected to send a high-level delegation.

This is for the second time Pakistan FM will be travelling to Geneva to raise Kashmir after New Delhi removed special status for the erstwhile state in August.&nbsp;

Pakistan was keen to bring a resolution on Kashmir in the council that time but failed to get any support.

August saw India Pakistan clash at the council as Islamabad raised the issue which New Delhi said is a matter internal to it.&nbsp;

Last year, the Indian delegation was led by secretary east Vijay Thakur Singh and included the then Indian envoy to Pakistan Ajay Bisaria.

India is all geared up as Pakistan is all set to raise Kashmir at the 43rd session of Human Rights Council that will take place in Geneva from February 24 to March 20.

India is all geared up as Pakistan is all set to raise Kashmir at the 43rd session of Human Rights Council that will take place in Geneva from February 24 to March 20. Pakistani foreign minister SM Qureshi will be leading his country's delegation for the meet, with India also expected to send a high-level delegation. This is for the second time Pakistan FM will be travelling to Geneva to raise Kashmir after New Delhi removed special status for the erstwhile state in August. Pakistan was keen to bring a resolution on Kashmir in the council that time but failed to get any support. August saw India Pakistan clash at the council as Islamabad raised the issue which New Delhi said is a matter internal to it. Last year, the Indian delegation was led by secretary east Vijay Thakur Singh and included the then Indian envoy to Pakistan Ajay Bisaria.

India gears up as Pakistan all set to rake Kashmir at United Nations Human Rights Council

India had offered evacuation of citizens of all neighbouring countries from Wuhan, the epicentre of the coronavirus.&nbsp;

Speaking in the upper house of the Indian Parliament, India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar said, "Regarding the question on Pakistan, at the time when our two flights were going, we had told all the students and the larger community in Wuhan that we were prepared not only to bring back Indians stuck in Wuhan but bring back all the people of our neighbouring countries who would like to come back."

Adding, "This was an offer which was made to all our neighbours. But of them, 7 nationals of Maldives chose to avail of the offer, I would like the honourable members to know the offer was made to all the neighbouring countries."

India had evacuated 654 passengers from Wuhan on January 31 and &nbsp;February 1 which included 7 Maldivian citizens and one Bangladeshi citizen. ITBP, which is hosting one of the quarantine camps for the evacuees, confirmed that all foreign nations have tested negative for the virus that has killed more than 600 in China.

While it has been confirmed no offer came from Pakistan, the foreign ministry has said, if the situation arises, it can look into it.

Indian Parliament also lauds 2 Indian diplomats from Indian mission in Beijing-- Deepak Padmakumar &amp; M.Balakrishnan who played a crucial role in operation Wuhan Evacuation by New Delhi.&nbsp;

The external affairs ministry said: "I would like to place on record, for understanding and appreciation that, 2 embassy official also went from Beijing to Wuhan at considerable risk."

Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha Harivansh Narayan Singh responded saying, "entire house joins in applauding the efforts".

80 Indians citizens are in Wuhan currently, which includes 70 Indian students who choose to stay in Wuhan and 10 students who were not allowed to board Air India flight since they showed symptoms.&nbsp;

So far India has confirmed only 3 cases of the virus, from the southern Indian state of Kerala. It has also been confirmed 6 Indians are on board the quarantined cruise ship Diamond Princesses, off the coast of Japan. Around 3700 people on the ship with 61 confirmed with Wuhan Coronavirus.

India had offered evacuation of citizens of all neighbouring countries from Wuhan, the epicentre of the coronavirus. Speaking in the upper house of the Indian Parliament, India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar said, "Regarding the question on Pakistan, at the time when our two flights were going, we had told all the students and the larger community in Wuhan that we were prepared not only to bring back Indians stuck in Wuhan but bring back all the people of our neighbouring countries who would like to come back.

India had offered evacuation of citizens of all neighbouring countries from Wuhan, the epicentre of the coronavirus. Speaking in the upper house of the Indian Parliament, India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar said, "Regarding the question on Pakistan, at the time when our two flights were going, we had told all the students and the larger community in Wuhan that we were prepared not only to bring back Indians stuck in Wuhan but bring back all the people of our neighbouring countries who would like to come back." Adding, "This was an offer which was made to all our neighbours. But of them, 7 nationals of Maldives chose to avail of the offer, I would like the honourable members to know the offer was made to all the neighbouring countries." India had evacuated 654 passengers from Wuhan on January 31 and February 1 which included 7 Maldivian citizens and one Bangladeshi citizen. ITBP, which is hosting one of the quarantine camps for the evacuees, confirmed that all foreign nations have tested negative for the virus that has killed more than 600 in China. While it has been confirmed no offer came from Pakistan, the foreign ministry has said, if the situation arises, it can look into it. Indian Parliament also lauds 2 Indian diplomats from Indian mission in Beijing-- Deepak Padmakumar & M.Balakrishnan who played a crucial role in operation Wuhan Evacuation by New Delhi. The external affairs ministry said: "I would like to place on record, for understanding and appreciation that, 2 embassy official also went from Beijing to Wuhan at considerable risk." Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha Harivansh Narayan Singh responded saying, "entire house joins in applauding the efforts". 80 Indians citizens are in Wuhan currently, which includes 70 Indian students who choose to stay in Wuhan and 10 students who were not allowed to board Air India flight since they showed symptoms. So far India has confirmed only 3 cases of the virus, from the southern Indian state of Kerala. It has also been confirmed 6 Indians are on board the quarantined cruise ship Diamond Princesses, off the coast of Japan. Around 3700 people on the ship with 61 confirmed with Wuhan Coronavirus.

On evacuation of Pakistani students from Wuhan, EAM says was prepared to bring back everyone from the neighbourhood

India has mooted a train service to ferry Pakistani pilgrims who will be coming for annual Urs of Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti at Ajmer Sharif.&nbsp;

This can be considered as a window for the resumption of suspended train services between India and Pakistan and a positive development in the back of strained ties since last year.

Pakistan had last year discontinued the train and bus services between both the countries after New Delhi removed special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir in August.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/on-evacuation-of-pakistani-students-from-wuhan-eam-says-was-prepared-to-bring-back-everyone-from-the-neighbourhood-279282">On evacuation of Pakistani students from Wuhan, EAM says was prepared to bring back everyone from the neighbourhood</a>

Both Samjhauta Express, connecting Lahore with Delhi, and Thar Express - which connects Khokhrapar in Pakistan with Munabao in Barmer district of Rajasthan were shut down by Islamabad.

The 9-day, 808th Urs of Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti will begin from February 24 and will go on till March 5.

The train service is expected to take Pakistani pilgrims from Attari to Ajmer. Pakistan is still to respond to the Indian proposal. Thousands of Pak pilgrims visit Ajmer each year for the annual Urs. The proposed connectivity can ease the pilgrimage.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

India has mooted a train service to ferry Pakistani pilgrims who will be coming for annual Urs of Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti at Ajmer Sharif. This can be considered as a window for the resumption of suspended train services between India and Pakistan and a positive development in the back of strained ties since last year.

India has mooted a train service to ferry Pakistani pilgrims who will be coming for annual Urs of Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti at Ajmer Sharif. This can be considered as a window for the resumption of suspended train services between India and Pakistan and a positive development in the back of strained ties since last year. Pakistan had last year discontinued the train and bus services between both the countries after New Delhi removed special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir in August. Also read: On evacuation of Pakistani students from Wuhan, EAM says was prepared to bring back everyone from the neighbourhood Both Samjhauta Express, connecting Lahore with Delhi, and Thar Express - which connects Khokhrapar in Pakistan with Munabao in Barmer district of Rajasthan were shut down by Islamabad. The 9-day, 808th Urs of Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti will begin from February 24 and will go on till March 5. The train service is expected to take Pakistani pilgrims from Attari to Ajmer. Pakistan is still to respond to the Indian proposal. Thousands of Pak pilgrims visit Ajmer each year for the annual Urs. The proposed connectivity can ease the pilgrimage.

Ajmer Sharif Urs: India moots train service for Pak pilgrims, opens window for resumption of suspended services

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Zee News Rajasthan

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Sidhant Sibal

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