<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on a two-day visit to Kerala, flagged off the state's first Vande Bharat Express train from here on Tuesday. Modi flagged off the train from the Thiruvananthapuram Central Railway station here at 11.10 AM.</p>

<p>Prior to flagging off the Vande Bharat Express from platform 1 of the railway station, he interacted with a group of school children inside one of the coaches of the train.</p>

<p>Kerala Governor Arif Mohammed Khan, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and Congress MP Shashi Tharoor were also present with the PM as he interacted with the students inside the train.</p>

<p>The children showed Modi paintings and sketches of him and the Vande Bharat train made by them.</p>

<p>Hundreds of people also gathered on the opposite side platform to see the PM flag off the train.</p>

<p>The Vande Bharat Express, which will connect the state capital with the northernmost Kasaragod district of Kerala, has been projected by many as an alternative to the LDF government's ambitious semi-high-speed rail corridor, SilverLine.</p>

<p>The PM flew down from Kochi in the morning and was given a grand reception by BJP leaders and workers on his arrival at the Thiruvananthapuram airport here.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Kerala: PM Narendra Modi along with Governor Arif Mohammed Khan, CM Pinarayi Vijayan and MP Shashi Tharoor arrives at Thiruvananthapuram Central railway station where he will be flagging off the Vande Bharat Express train. <a href="https://t.co/i5eVgSSrl2">pic.twitter.com/i5eVgSSrl2</a></p>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">First Vande Bharat Express of Kerala, water metro in Kochi and other initiatives launched today will further the state's development journey. <a href="https://t.co/9mrLOSG1Wy">pic.twitter.com/9mrLOSG1Wy</a></p>
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/1650754676235837440?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 25, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The entire state capital was under a tight security net, with the deployment of hundreds of police personnel and stringent traffic restrictions, as the PM travelled from the airport to the railway station.</p>

<p>His entire nearly six km journey from the airport to the railway station was akin to a road show with the PM standing on the footboard of his vehicle and waving to the people on the roadside as they showered him with flowers.</p>

<p>After the flagging off of the train, he is scheduled to launch several other developmental projects, including the Kochi Water Metro service, from the Kerala Central Stadium here.</p>

<p>He will lay the foundation stones of various projects, like the electrified Dindigul-Palani-Palakkad section and the country's first Digital Science Park, and dedicate them to the nation at a ceremony to be held at the Central Stadium here.</p>

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on a two-day visit to Kerala, flagged off the state's first Vande Bharat Express train from here on Tuesday. Modi flagged off the train from the Thiruvananthapuram Central Railway station here at 11.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on a two-day visit to Kerala, flagged off the state's first Vande Bharat Express train from here on Tuesday. Modi flagged off the train from the Thiruvananthapuram Central Railway station here at 11.10 AM. Prior to flagging off the Vande Bharat Express from platform 1 of the railway station, he interacted with a group of school children inside one of the coaches of the train. Kerala Governor Arif Mohammed Khan, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and Congress MP Shashi Tharoor were also present with the PM as he interacted with the students inside the train. The children showed Modi paintings and sketches of him and the Vande Bharat train made by them. Hundreds of people also gathered on the opposite side platform to see the PM flag off the train. The Vande Bharat Express, which will connect the state capital with the northernmost Kasaragod district of Kerala, has been projected by many as an alternative to the LDF government's ambitious semi-high-speed rail corridor, SilverLine. The PM flew down from Kochi in the morning and was given a grand reception by BJP leaders and workers on his arrival at the Thiruvananthapuram airport here. #WATCH | Kerala: PM Narendra Modi along with Governor Arif Mohammed Khan, CM Pinarayi Vijayan and MP Shashi Tharoor arrives at Thiruvananthapuram Central railway station where he will be flagging off the Vande Bharat Express train. pic.twitter.com/i5eVgSSrl2 — ANI (@ANI) April 25, 2023 × First Vande Bharat Express of Kerala, water metro in Kochi and other initiatives launched today will further the state's development journey. pic.twitter.com/9mrLOSG1Wy — PMO India (@PMOIndia) April 25, 2023 × The entire state capital was under a tight security net, with the deployment of hundreds of police personnel and stringent traffic restrictions, as the PM travelled from the airport to the railway station. His entire nearly six km journey from the airport to the railway station was akin to a road show with the PM standing on the footboard of his vehicle and waving to the people on the roadside as they showered him with flowers. After the flagging off of the train, he is scheduled to launch several other developmental projects, including the Kochi Water Metro service, from the Kerala Central Stadium here. He will lay the foundation stones of various projects, like the electrified Dindigul-Palani-Palakkad section and the country's first Digital Science Park, and dedicate them to the nation at a ceremony to be held at the Central Stadium here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

PM Modi flags off Kerala's first Vande Bharat Express train

Indians or NRIs’ as we call them have given Indians yet another Milestone to cherish in our eyes sent over a hundred billion dollars to India last year. A World Bank report showed India became the first country to reach the 100 billion dollar landmark in money inflow but what does it mean for India and its economy here's a report to tell you more.

Remittances into India breach $100 billion mark

In an exclusive interview with WION's Sidhant Sibal, the Lithuanian Ambassador to India Diana Mickeviciene has termed China's ambassador to France's comments on the sovereignty of Baltic states as "unacceptable." She also added that China should not repeat the narrative of an aggressive nation.

'China should not repeat the narrative of an aggressive nation', says Lithuania Ambassador to India

<p>Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar said that it is "very difficult" to engage with a neighbour who practices cross-border terrorism. Jaishankar's remarks came during a joint press briefing with Janaina Tewaney, the foreign minister of Panama, in Panama City.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Jaishankar on Monday arrived in Panama City for a two-day visit and was received by Panama's Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs Vladimir Francos. Taking to his official Twitter handle, Jaishankar wrote, "Arrived in Panama City. Thank Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs @VladimirFrancoS for the warm reception. Look forward to a packed bilateral and multilateral agenda."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, on Pakistan, Jaishankar said: "We've always said that they have to deliver on the commitment to not sponsor and carry out cross-border terrorism. We continue to hope that one day we would reach that stage."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/iran-defence-minister-to-visit-india-this-week-for-sco-meet-ambassador-iraj-elahi-585822">Iran defence minister to visit India this week for SCO Meet: Ambassador Iraj Elahi</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The foreign minister's remark is extremely crucial ahead of Pakistan Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto's visit to the Indian state of Goa for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) FMs meeting on May 4-5. The SCO is an eight-member political and security bloc that includes Russia and China.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The visit will be the first trip to India by a top Pakistani minister since then prime minister Nawaz Sharif attended Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's swearing-in in 2014. India for years has claimed that Pakistan helps Islamist separatists who have attacked Indian security forces in various regions, mostly in Kashmir.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A bilateral visit took place in 2015 when PM Modi made an unexpected detour to Lahore, but India-Pakistan relations dipped within a month of the visit over the terror attack at the Indian Air Force base at Pathankot, which deteriorated further after India's reaction to the attack - the "surgical strikes" - in 2016.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Imran Khan government took several drastic steps, like recalling ambassadors to cutting off trade ties, after the abrogation of Article 370 that changed the constitutional status of Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch Jaishankar's comments:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">"It is very difficult to engage with a neighbor who practices cross-border terrorism against us," says EAM Jaishankar ahead of Pakistan FM Bilawal Bhutto's visit to Goa for SCO FMs meet next week <a href="https://t.co/4w9pYZHNpc">pic.twitter.com/4w9pYZHNpc</a></p>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1650677725747900417?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 25, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Jaishankar and Panama's Foreign Minister Janaina Tewaney held a joint press conference on Monday after holding discussions on several bilateral issues related to health and trade. Addressing the joint briefing, Jaishankar said India and Panama discussed what can be done to expand the cooperation and how Indian Pharmaceuticals can be brought to Panama.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Jaishankar said, "In the last three years, Indian pharmacy has made a change in the world. In Covid we supplied vaccines, and we exported medicines to most of the developed world. Covid has taught us not to be dependent on very limited centres of production, on supply chains that can be disrupted so it is very important that there are more regional capacities, it is particularly important in health. It is not just trading, as research goes into it, we discussed how we can bring Indian pharmaceuticals to India," the EAM added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

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Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar said that it is "very difficult" to engage with a neighbour who practices cross-border terrorism. Jaishankar's remarks came during a joint press briefing with Janaina Tewaney, the foreign minister of Panama, in Panama City.

Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar said that it is "very difficult" to engage with a neighbour who practices cross-border terrorism. Jaishankar's remarks came during a joint press briefing with Janaina Tewaney, the foreign minister of Panama, in Panama City. Jaishankar on Monday arrived in Panama City for a two-day visit and was received by Panama's Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs Vladimir Francos. Taking to his official Twitter handle, Jaishankar wrote, "Arrived in Panama City. Thank Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs @VladimirFrancoS for the warm reception. Look forward to a packed bilateral and multilateral agenda." Meanwhile, on Pakistan, Jaishankar said: "We've always said that they have to deliver on the commitment to not sponsor and carry out cross-border terrorism. We continue to hope that one day we would reach that stage." ALSO READ | Iran defence minister to visit India this week for SCO Meet: Ambassador Iraj Elahi The foreign minister's remark is extremely crucial ahead of Pakistan Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto's visit to the Indian state of Goa for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) FMs meeting on May 4-5. The SCO is an eight-member political and security bloc that includes Russia and China. The visit will be the first trip to India by a top Pakistani minister since then prime minister Nawaz Sharif attended Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's swearing-in in 2014. India for years has claimed that Pakistan helps Islamist separatists who have attacked Indian security forces in various regions, mostly in Kashmir. A bilateral visit took place in 2015 when PM Modi made an unexpected detour to Lahore, but India-Pakistan relations dipped within a month of the visit over the terror attack at the Indian Air Force base at Pathankot, which deteriorated further after India's reaction to the attack - the "surgical strikes" - in 2016. The Imran Khan government took several drastic steps, like recalling ambassadors to cutting off trade ties, after the abrogation of Article 370 that changed the constitutional status of Jammu and Kashmir. Watch Jaishankar's comments: "It is very difficult to engage with a neighbor who practices cross-border terrorism against us," says EAM Jaishankar ahead of Pakistan FM Bilawal Bhutto's visit to Goa for SCO FMs meet next week pic.twitter.com/4w9pYZHNpc — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) April 25, 2023 × Jaishankar and Panama's Foreign Minister Janaina Tewaney held a joint press conference on Monday after holding discussions on several bilateral issues related to health and trade. Addressing the joint briefing, Jaishankar said India and Panama discussed what can be done to expand the cooperation and how Indian Pharmaceuticals can be brought to Panama. Jaishankar said, "In the last three years, Indian pharmacy has made a change in the world. In Covid we supplied vaccines, and we exported medicines to most of the developed world. Covid has taught us not to be dependent on very limited centres of production, on supply chains that can be disrupted so it is very important that there are more regional capacities, it is particularly important in health. It is not just trading, as research goes into it, we discussed how we can bring Indian pharmaceuticals to India," the EAM added. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Very difficult to engage with neighbour who practices cross-border terror: India's Jaishankar

<p>Russia launched "a special military operation" in Ukraine last year in February and the conflict kept escalating ever since. Ukraine lobbied the allies for military aid, especially long-range missiles, advanced fighter jets and battle tanks. The Western nations balked for some time over fears of direct conflict with Russia, but eventually, they agreed to provide them to some extent, to help Kyiv against Moscow's aggression. The allies have provided a mix of cutting-edge, as well as, older technology to create multi-layered defences for the war-torn nation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Now the latest report suggests that Ukraine has been disassembling many fighter jets it received from European nations such as Slovakia and Poland. Sputnik, cited a report published by a British weekly newspaper, The Economist, which suggested that a large part of the MiG-29 fighter jets that Poland and Slovakia sent to Ukraine can be of use only if disassembled for spare parts. They were recently handed over to Ukraine and apparently were not in flyable condition. In recent weeks, Poland and Slovakia transferred about eight MiG-29s.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky urged the allies to supply fighter jets as soon as possible, but the EU and the United States remained mum. Earlier this month, Ukrainian Air Force Command spokesman Yuriy Ignat said that Ukraine would like to get F-16 fighters as the supply of other Western aircraft could take more time.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-lavrov-warns-about-world-being-on-dangerous-threshold-at-un-gets-criticised-by-the-west-585850">Russia’s Lavrov warns about world being on ‘dangerous threshold’, gets criticised by the West at UN</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Rising Pro-China footprint in Latin America&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Ukraine's military capacity</strong></h2>

<p>The recent leaks of secret documents from the Pentagon raised questions over Ukraine's military capacity and its ability to make significant gains in an upcoming counteroffensive. The documents also raised doubts over Kyiv's capacity to keep defending against Russian strikes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The top secret document seen by news agencies and several media outlets said that tough Russian defences and "enduring Ukrainian deficiencies in training and munitions supplies probably will strain progress and exacerbate casualties during the offensive".&nbsp;</p>

<p>The document labelled "top secret", detailed the poor condition of Ukrainian air defences. It is a vital cog of Ukraine's military at this moment as it helps in protecting against Russian strikes and preventing Moscow's forces from gaining control of the skies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The document state that around 89 per cent of Ukrainian medium and high-range air defences was made up of SA-10 and SA-11 Soviet-era systems that could soon run short of ammunition. The authenticity of which could not immediately be confirmed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The document projected that Ukraine's SA-11s would be out of missiles by late March, and its SA-10s by early May, based on the estimation of munitions use at the time.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</strong></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

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Russia launched "a special military operation" in Ukraine last year in February and the conflict kept escalating ever since. Ukraine lobbied the allies for military aid, especially long-range missiles, advanced fighter jets and battle tanks.

Russia launched "a special military operation" in Ukraine last year in February and the conflict kept escalating ever since. Ukraine lobbied the allies for military aid, especially long-range missiles, advanced fighter jets and battle tanks. The Western nations balked for some time over fears of direct conflict with Russia, but eventually, they agreed to provide them to some extent, to help Kyiv against Moscow's aggression. The allies have provided a mix of cutting-edge, as well as, older technology to create multi-layered defences for the war-torn nation. Now the latest report suggests that Ukraine has been disassembling many fighter jets it received from European nations such as Slovakia and Poland. Sputnik, cited a report published by a British weekly newspaper, The Economist, which suggested that a large part of the MiG-29 fighter jets that Poland and Slovakia sent to Ukraine can be of use only if disassembled for spare parts. They were recently handed over to Ukraine and apparently were not in flyable condition. In recent weeks, Poland and Slovakia transferred about eight MiG-29s. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky urged the allies to supply fighter jets as soon as possible, but the EU and the United States remained mum. Earlier this month, Ukrainian Air Force Command spokesman Yuriy Ignat said that Ukraine would like to get F-16 fighters as the supply of other Western aircraft could take more time. ALSO READ | Russia’s Lavrov warns about world being on ‘dangerous threshold’, gets criticised by the West at UN WATCH | Rising Pro-China footprint in Latin America × Ukraine's military capacity The recent leaks of secret documents from the Pentagon raised questions over Ukraine's military capacity and its ability to make significant gains in an upcoming counteroffensive. The documents also raised doubts over Kyiv's capacity to keep defending against Russian strikes. The top secret document seen by news agencies and several media outlets said that tough Russian defences and "enduring Ukrainian deficiencies in training and munitions supplies probably will strain progress and exacerbate casualties during the offensive". The document labelled "top secret", detailed the poor condition of Ukrainian air defences. It is a vital cog of Ukraine's military at this moment as it helps in protecting against Russian strikes and preventing Moscow's forces from gaining control of the skies. The document state that around 89 per cent of Ukrainian medium and high-range air defences was made up of SA-10 and SA-11 Soviet-era systems that could soon run short of ammunition. The authenticity of which could not immediately be confirmed. The document projected that Ukraine's SA-11s would be out of missiles by late March, and its SA-10s by early May, based on the estimation of munitions use at the time. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Is Ukraine disassembling fighter jets sent by Slovakia and Poland to use spare parts?

<p>An annual report has found that military expenditure across the world hit an all-time high of $2.24tn (£1.8tn) in 2022, a year when there was an increase in dangerous nuclear weapons rhetoric amidst the ongoing war in Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A leading conflict and armaments think tank said on Monday (April 24) that Russia's war in Ukraine drove the biggest annual increase in expenditure in Europe since the end of the Cold War three decades ago.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) said that the rise in Europe helped global military expenditures reach an eighth straight record — or 2.2 per cent of the world's gross domestic product.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-china-steps-up-threats-australia-unveils-biggest-defence-reform-since-world-war-ii-585568">As China steps up threats, Australia unveils biggest defence reform since World War II</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>As quoted by Paris-based news agency AFP, researcher Nan Tian, who is one of the study's co-authors, said: "It's driven by the war in Ukraine, (which is) driving European budget spending upwards, but also the unresolved and worsening tensions in East Asia between the US and China."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The boost in military expenditures can be seen in the aftermath of countries rushing to bolster their defences after Russia's invasion of Ukraine, which began in February last year following years of growing tensions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As quoted by Reuters, SIPRI Senior Researcher Diego Lopes da Silva said: "This included multi-year plans to boost spending from several governments. As a result, we can reasonably expect military expenditure in Central and Western Europe to keep rising in the years ahead."&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Total global <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MilitarySpending?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MilitarySpending</a> increased by 3.7% in real terms in 2022, to reach a new high of $2240 billion—the highest level ever recorded in SIPRI data. New SIPRI data out now.<br />
<br />
Press Release ➡️<a href="https://t.co/CUMd384wvl">https://t.co/CUMd384wvl</a><br />
Explore the interactive graphic ➡️<a href="https://t.co/Idxdu8MNQ1">https://t.co/Idxdu8MNQ1</a> <a href="https://t.co/oRKLYe9sIT">pic.twitter.com/oRKLYe9sIT</a></p>
— SIPRI (@SIPRIorg) <a href="https://twitter.com/SIPRIorg/status/1650280892970024960?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Military expenditure in Europe saw its steepest year-on-year increase (⬆️13%) in at least 30 years. Ukraine’s🇺🇦 military spending rose by 640% to $44 billion in 2022 ➡️ <a href="https://t.co/CUMd3854kT">https://t.co/CUMd3854kT</a><br />
<br />
Explore the interactive map of Europe ➡️ <a href="https://t.co/3yjLK4aWVJ">https://t.co/3yjLK4aWVJ</a> <a href="https://t.co/ImQ7Beva7C">pic.twitter.com/ImQ7Beva7C</a></p>
— SIPRI (@SIPRIorg) <a href="https://twitter.com/SIPRIorg/status/1650318645376196608?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The 15 top spenders in 2022 together accounted for 82% of world <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MilitaryExpenditure?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MilitaryExpenditure</a>, or $1842 billion. The <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/USA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#USA</a>🇺🇸and <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/China?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#China</a>🇨🇳remained the two largest spenders, accounting for 39% and 13%, respectively ➡️ <a href="https://t.co/qBe5MZu9fi">https://t.co/qBe5MZu9fi</a><br />
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Explore the top 15 ➡️ <a href="https://t.co/GRbPi3w6kr">https://t.co/GRbPi3w6kr</a> <a href="https://t.co/Cx4J973HkU">pic.twitter.com/Cx4J973HkU</a></p>
— SIPRI (@SIPRIorg) <a href="https://twitter.com/SIPRIorg/status/1650356390374920194?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Moscow claimed that it has launched a "special military operation" to liberate it from the neo-Nazi regime and it also said that the operation was necessary to safeguard it against what it sees as a hostile and aggressive West.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ukraine condemned the military incursion and, in the aftermath, its allies started pumping in advanced and precision weapons in the form of military aid to the war-hit nation.&nbsp;Ukraine and its allies say Russia is waging an unprovoked war aimed at grabbing territory.&nbsp;</p>

<p>SIPRI data suggested that Ukraine's military spending rose 640 per cent in 2022, the largest annual increase recorded in the Stockholm-based research report, which dates back to 1949, with that total not including the vast amounts of financial military aid provided by the West.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | Former Russian President Medvedev threatens to scrap grain deal if G7 bans export&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>As per SIPRI's estimate, military aid to Ukraine from the United States accounted for 2.3 per cent of total US military spending in 2022.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report also weighed in on Russia's military spending, which grew by an estimated 9.2 per cent. Notably, SIPRI said that the figures were "highly uncertain given the increasing opaqueness of financial authorities" since its war in Ukraine began.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As quoted by Reuters, Lucie Beraud-Sudreau, Director of SIPRI's Military Expenditure and Arms Production Programme, said: "The difference between Russia's budgetary plans and its actual military spending in 2022 suggests the invasion of Ukraine has cost Russia far more than it anticipated."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

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An annual report has found that military expenditure across the world hit an all-time high of $2.24tn (£1.8tn) in 2022, a year when there was an increase in dangerous nuclear weapons rhetoric amidst the ongoing war in Ukraine.

An annual report has found that military expenditure across the world hit an all-time high of $2.24tn (£1.8tn) in 2022, a year when there was an increase in dangerous nuclear weapons rhetoric amidst the ongoing war in Ukraine. A leading conflict and armaments think tank said on Monday (April 24) that Russia's war in Ukraine drove the biggest annual increase in expenditure in Europe since the end of the Cold War three decades ago. The Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) said that the rise in Europe helped global military expenditures reach an eighth straight record — or 2.2 per cent of the world's gross domestic product. ALSO READ | As China steps up threats, Australia unveils biggest defence reform since World War II As quoted by Paris-based news agency AFP, researcher Nan Tian, who is one of the study's co-authors, said: "It's driven by the war in Ukraine, (which is) driving European budget spending upwards, but also the unresolved and worsening tensions in East Asia between the US and China." The boost in military expenditures can be seen in the aftermath of countries rushing to bolster their defences after Russia's invasion of Ukraine, which began in February last year following years of growing tensions. As quoted by Reuters, SIPRI Senior Researcher Diego Lopes da Silva said: "This included multi-year plans to boost spending from several governments. As a result, we can reasonably expect military expenditure in Central and Western Europe to keep rising in the years ahead." Total global #MilitarySpending increased by 3.7% in real terms in 2022, to reach a new high of $2240 billion—the highest level ever recorded in SIPRI data. New SIPRI data out now. Press Release ➡️https://t.co/CUMd384wvl Explore the interactive graphic ➡️https://t.co/Idxdu8MNQ1 pic.twitter.com/oRKLYe9sIT — SIPRI (@SIPRIorg) April 23, 2023 × Military expenditure in Europe saw its steepest year-on-year increase (⬆️13%) in at least 30 years. Ukraine’s🇺🇦 military spending rose by 640% to $44 billion in 2022 ➡️ https://t.co/CUMd3854kT Explore the interactive map of Europe ➡️ https://t.co/3yjLK4aWVJ pic.twitter.com/ImQ7Beva7C — SIPRI (@SIPRIorg) April 24, 2023 × The 15 top spenders in 2022 together accounted for 82% of world #MilitaryExpenditure, or $1842 billion. The #USA🇺🇸and #China🇨🇳remained the two largest spenders, accounting for 39% and 13%, respectively ➡️ https://t.co/qBe5MZu9fi Explore the top 15 ➡️ https://t.co/GRbPi3w6kr pic.twitter.com/Cx4J973HkU — SIPRI (@SIPRIorg) April 24, 2023 × Moscow claimed that it has launched a "special military operation" to liberate it from the neo-Nazi regime and it also said that the operation was necessary to safeguard it against what it sees as a hostile and aggressive West. Ukraine condemned the military incursion and, in the aftermath, its allies started pumping in advanced and precision weapons in the form of military aid to the war-hit nation. Ukraine and its allies say Russia is waging an unprovoked war aimed at grabbing territory. SIPRI data suggested that Ukraine's military spending rose 640 per cent in 2022, the largest annual increase recorded in the Stockholm-based research report, which dates back to 1949, with that total not including the vast amounts of financial military aid provided by the West. WATCH | Former Russian President Medvedev threatens to scrap grain deal if G7 bans export × As per SIPRI's estimate, military aid to Ukraine from the United States accounted for 2.3 per cent of total US military spending in 2022. The report also weighed in on Russia's military spending, which grew by an estimated 9.2 per cent. Notably, SIPRI said that the figures were "highly uncertain given the increasing opaqueness of financial authorities" since its war in Ukraine began. As quoted by Reuters, Lucie Beraud-Sudreau, Director of SIPRI's Military Expenditure and Arms Production Programme, said: "The difference between Russia's budgetary plans and its actual military spending in 2022 suggests the invasion of Ukraine has cost Russia far more than it anticipated." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Global military expenditure reaches new record high in 2022

<p>Amid furore caused by an envoy's remarks, China conceded on Monday (April 24) that it respected the "sovereign state status" of all ex-Soviet countries. The remarks from the Chinese foreign ministry came after Ukraine slammed the "absurd" remarks by China’s ambassador to France on ex-Soviet nations, who basically questioned their sovereignty. Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning told reporters that Beijing "respects the sovereign state status of the participating republics after the dissolution of the Soviet Union."</p>

<p>The remarks over sovereignty were made by Lu Shaye as he suggested that the countries that emerged after the fall of the Soviet Union "don't have effective status under international law because there is not an international agreement confirming their status as sovereign nations."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/global-military-expenditure-reaches-new-record-high-in-2022-585572">Global military expenditure reaches new record high in 2022</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>His remarks came during an interview which aired on French television on Friday. The comments sparked a wave of outrage across Europe as France and the Baltic states of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania have also condemned the official.&nbsp;</p>

<p>European Union foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said that the remarks were "unacceptable". Borrell further added in a tweet that the EU "can only suppose these declarations do not represent China's official policy."&nbsp;</p>

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<p>In a response to the controversy, Mao told journalists: "China respects the sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of all countries and upholds the purposes and principles of the UN Charter. After the collapse of the Soviet Union, China was one of the first countries to establish diplomatic relations with relevant countries."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Since the establishment of diplomatic ties, China has always adhered to the principle of mutual respect and equality to develop bilateral, friendly and cooperative relations," the Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman further added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The Chinese side respects the status of the member states as sovereign states after the dissolution of the Soviet Union."</p>

<p>While responding to a reporter, Mao said, "The country you mentioned (Ukraine) is a full member of the United Nations, and only sovereign states can become full members of the United Nations." &nbsp;</p>

<p>She stated that this is international "common sense" and in accordance with the purposes and principles of the UN Charter and the five principles of peaceful coexistence, China has established and developed sound state-to-state relations with Ukraine. She noted that any attempt to "sow dissension, interfere or undermine China's relations with relevant countries will have ulterior motives and will not succeed".&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-china-steps-up-threats-australia-unveils-biggest-defence-reform-since-world-war-ii-585568">As China steps up threats, Australia unveils biggest defence reform since World War II</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>Reactions to Lu's comments&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Lithuanian Foreign Minister Gabrielius Landsbergis wrote on Twitter that "if anyone is still wondering why the Baltic States don't trust China to 'broker peace in Ukraine', here's a Chinese ambassador arguing that Crimea is Russian and our countries' borders have no legal basis."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

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Amid furore caused by an envoy's remarks, China conceded on Monday (April 24) that it respected the "sovereign state status" of all ex-Soviet countries. The remarks from the Chinese foreign ministry came after Ukraine slammed the "absurd" remarks by China’s ambassador to France on ex-Soviet nations, who basically questioned their sovereignty.

Amid furore caused by an envoy's remarks, China conceded on Monday (April 24) that it respected the "sovereign state status" of all ex-Soviet countries. The remarks from the Chinese foreign ministry came after Ukraine slammed the "absurd" remarks by China’s ambassador to France on ex-Soviet nations, who basically questioned their sovereignty. Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning told reporters that Beijing "respects the sovereign state status of the participating republics after the dissolution of the Soviet Union." The remarks over sovereignty were made by Lu Shaye as he suggested that the countries that emerged after the fall of the Soviet Union "don't have effective status under international law because there is not an international agreement confirming their status as sovereign nations." ALSO READ | Global military expenditure reaches new record high in 2022 His remarks came during an interview which aired on French television on Friday. The comments sparked a wave of outrage across Europe as France and the Baltic states of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania have also condemned the official. European Union foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said that the remarks were "unacceptable". Borrell further added in a tweet that the EU "can only suppose these declarations do not represent China's official policy." Watch this report: × In a response to the controversy, Mao told journalists: "China respects the sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of all countries and upholds the purposes and principles of the UN Charter. After the collapse of the Soviet Union, China was one of the first countries to establish diplomatic relations with relevant countries." "Since the establishment of diplomatic ties, China has always adhered to the principle of mutual respect and equality to develop bilateral, friendly and cooperative relations," the Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman further added. "The Chinese side respects the status of the member states as sovereign states after the dissolution of the Soviet Union." While responding to a reporter, Mao said, "The country you mentioned (Ukraine) is a full member of the United Nations, and only sovereign states can become full members of the United Nations." She stated that this is international "common sense" and in accordance with the purposes and principles of the UN Charter and the five principles of peaceful coexistence, China has established and developed sound state-to-state relations with Ukraine. She noted that any attempt to "sow dissension, interfere or undermine China's relations with relevant countries will have ulterior motives and will not succeed". ALSO READ | As China steps up threats, Australia unveils biggest defence reform since World War II Reactions to Lu's comments Lithuanian Foreign Minister Gabrielius Landsbergis wrote on Twitter that "if anyone is still wondering why the Baltic States don't trust China to 'broker peace in Ukraine', here's a Chinese ambassador arguing that Crimea is Russian and our countries' borders have no legal basis." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

China caves in after outrage, says it respects ex-Soviet states as sovereign nations

<p>The United States Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia, Donald Lu, said that President Joe Biden is expected to travel to India for the G20 Summit in September. The official said that 2023 is going to be a "big year" for the India-US relationship and the leadership in the G-20 has expanded New Delhi's capacity to stand as a force for good in the world.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While speaking with India-based news agency PTI in Washington DC, Lu said, "This is gonna be a big year for the India-US relationship. India is hosting the G20 and the US is hosting APEC, Japan the G7." As the president of the G-20, India is working on pushing forward a positive agenda for the summit.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ahead-of-g7-summit-japans-lgbtqia-community-demand-legalisation-of-same-sex-marriage-585495">Ahead of G7 summit, Japan's LGBTQIA+ community demand legalisation of same-sex marriage</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>"We have lots of QUAD members who are taking on leadership roles and it provides us with opportunities to bring our countries closer," Lu added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I know our President is looking forward to travelling to India in September. That will be his first trip to India as part of the G-20 Leaders Summit. We’re really excited about what’s to come in the next few months," Lu said, further adding that only a little over three months into this new year and "we've had a number of really exciting things that happened".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Lu was referring to recent crucial visits to India such as the visits of Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, and Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo. The India-US Forum was organised in the Indian capital and it was attended by several senior administration officials.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>He said. "In March Dr Jaishankar hosted his QUAD counterparts for a ministerial meeting and extraordinary public events at the Raisina Dialogue with all four foreign ministers together. It was the first such public discussion with QUAD foreign ministers and really drove home how our four countries are coming together to support the people of the Indo-Pacific."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Lu said: "And then lastly, this month, the arrival of our new Ambassador Eric Garcetti. He has already received a really warm welcome from our Indian and American staff at the US Embassy. Once he presents his credentials, he is looking forward to meeting with the rest of India and I think India will find that he is young, he is enthusiastic, and he's eager to bring our relations to new heights."&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added, "We are really thankful for the tremendous work India has done by hosting the G-20 Foreign Ministerial meeting last month, and we look forward to actively participating in the many future G-20 meetings coming up this year, including the New Delhi Leaders Summit in September."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

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The United States Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia, Donald Lu, said that President Joe Biden is expected to travel to India for the G20 Summit in September.

The United States Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia, Donald Lu, said that President Joe Biden is expected to travel to India for the G20 Summit in September. The official said that 2023 is going to be a "big year" for the India-US relationship and the leadership in the G-20 has expanded New Delhi's capacity to stand as a force for good in the world. While speaking with India-based news agency PTI in Washington DC, Lu said, "This is gonna be a big year for the India-US relationship. India is hosting the G20 and the US is hosting APEC, Japan the G7." As the president of the G-20, India is working on pushing forward a positive agenda for the summit. ALSO READ | Ahead of G7 summit, Japan's LGBTQIA+ community demand legalisation of same-sex marriage "We have lots of QUAD members who are taking on leadership roles and it provides us with opportunities to bring our countries closer," Lu added. "I know our President is looking forward to travelling to India in September. That will be his first trip to India as part of the G-20 Leaders Summit. We’re really excited about what’s to come in the next few months," Lu said, further adding that only a little over three months into this new year and "we've had a number of really exciting things that happened". Lu was referring to recent crucial visits to India such as the visits of Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, and Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo. The India-US Forum was organised in the Indian capital and it was attended by several senior administration officials. Watch this report: × He said. "In March Dr Jaishankar hosted his QUAD counterparts for a ministerial meeting and extraordinary public events at the Raisina Dialogue with all four foreign ministers together. It was the first such public discussion with QUAD foreign ministers and really drove home how our four countries are coming together to support the people of the Indo-Pacific." Lu said: "And then lastly, this month, the arrival of our new Ambassador Eric Garcetti. He has already received a really warm welcome from our Indian and American staff at the US Embassy. Once he presents his credentials, he is looking forward to meeting with the rest of India and I think India will find that he is young, he is enthusiastic, and he's eager to bring our relations to new heights." He added, "We are really thankful for the tremendous work India has done by hosting the G-20 Foreign Ministerial meeting last month, and we look forward to actively participating in the many future G-20 meetings coming up this year, including the New Delhi Leaders Summit in September." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US President Joe Biden to visit India for G20 Summit in September: Report

<p>A man in the United States has won the lottery - not once, not twice... but three times. The 52-year-old man, whose identity has not been revealed, won $50,000 playing Pick 5 for the third time within a year. Media reports mentioned that he even used the same numbers as he put a $1 straight bet on the number - 48548.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As quoted by media reports, the Charles County man told the Maryland Lottery on Wednesday that "it hit last year and it hit again". He mentioned that his wife suggested playing the number and they kept winning with it.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A news release from the Maryland Lottery stated that the man has won his third $50,000 lottery prize in 11 months. Previously, he won $100,000 on two tickets he bought on a May 18, 2022, midday drawing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>People have nicknamed him "Big Winner" because of the lottery wins and he further added that he thinks most lottery winners "erroneously stop playing because they believe they won't be able to win more than once".&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said: "I play the Lottery all the time. You never know. You can't win if you are not in it."&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Waldorf Man Wins Three Top Pick 5 Prizes Months Apart With Same Number <a href="https://t.co/U2awEwFfPw">https://t.co/U2awEwFfPw</a> <a href="https://t.co/24LlaWtOmP">pic.twitter.com/24LlaWtOmP</a></p>
— The BayNet (@thebaynetcom) <a href="https://twitter.com/thebaynetcom/status/1649050978484883458?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 20, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>He even hinted that he will keep on playing despite winning the amount for a third time. Media reports mentioned that he and his wife are planning to use the money from his latest win on a vacation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The store from where he bought the ticket is named Big Mouth Beer, Wine and Liquor in Waldorf and it is getting a $500 bonus.&nbsp;</p>

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A man in the United States has won the lottery - not once, not twice... but three times. The 52-year-old man, whose identity has not been revealed, won $50,000 playing Pick 5 for the third time within a year.

A man in the United States has won the lottery - not once, not twice... but three times. The 52-year-old man, whose identity has not been revealed, won $50,000 playing Pick 5 for the third time within a year. Media reports mentioned that he even used the same numbers as he put a $1 straight bet on the number - 48548. As quoted by media reports, the Charles County man told the Maryland Lottery on Wednesday that "it hit last year and it hit again". He mentioned that his wife suggested playing the number and they kept winning with it. A news release from the Maryland Lottery stated that the man has won his third $50,000 lottery prize in 11 months. Previously, he won $100,000 on two tickets he bought on a May 18, 2022, midday drawing. People have nicknamed him "Big Winner" because of the lottery wins and he further added that he thinks most lottery winners "erroneously stop playing because they believe they won't be able to win more than once". He said: "I play the Lottery all the time. You never know. You can't win if you are not in it." Waldorf Man Wins Three Top Pick 5 Prizes Months Apart With Same Number https://t.co/U2awEwFfPw pic.twitter.com/24LlaWtOmP — The BayNet (@thebaynetcom) April 20, 2023 × He even hinted that he will keep on playing despite winning the amount for a third time. Media reports mentioned that he and his wife are planning to use the money from his latest win on a vacation. The store from where he bought the ticket is named Big Mouth Beer, Wine and Liquor in Waldorf and it is getting a $500 bonus. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Good fortune: US man wins lottery not just once but three times...using the same numbers

<p>In a major breakthrough, Punjab police arrested radical preacher <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-waris-punjab-de-chief-amritpal-singh-arrested-in-punjab-claims-report-585217">Amritpal Singh</a></strong> on Sunday (April 23) from Moga's Rode village after days of a man-hunt when he finally surrendered. The same day, Singh was shifted to Dibrugarh in the northeastern Indian&nbsp;state of Assam via a special flight from Bhatinda air force station. He has been kept in a high-security prison just like his other eight aides.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Police urged common people to maintain peace and harmony, to not share fake news, and always verify before sharing anything as there were speculations that the arrest of Amritpal might trigger violent protests across the state of Punjab. But amid all this, some were wondering why Amritpal was sent to the Dibrugarh Central Jail, and not kept in Punjab or New Delhi.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Amritpal's arrest&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Amritpal and his aides have been arrested under the National Security Act (NSA). The radical preacher was taken into custody in the early hours of April 23. He surrendered after as he came out of the gurdwara in Rode, Bhindranwale's native village. He was in traditional attire that included a sheathed sword and videos shared on social media purportedly showed that he addressed a gathering at the gurdwara. It is the same place which he took over last year as the chief of Waris Punjab De.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Amritpal and his aides face several criminal cases related to spreading disharmony among classes, attempting to murder, attack police personnel and creating obstructions in the lawful discharge of duty by public servants. Indian intelligence agencies have said that the Sikh separatist has been sourcing weapons from Pakistan through its spy agency Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) and trying to divide Punjab on communal lines. Amritpal Singh also faces allegations that he&nbsp;had been allegedly leading young people towards a "gun culture."&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Dibrugarh Jail</h2>

<p>Local media outlets reported quoted sources that the main reason behind Amritpal and his aides being taken to the other end of the nation is to avoid any ruckus, which may fuel protests in the aftermath of the arrests. The sources mentioned that it is unlikely that the jails in which they are currently kept have gangsters associated with them or the separatist movement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The sources also said that in Dibrugarh jail, there will be a language barrier for Amritpal - another reason to prevent him from connecting with other inmates and authorities. The high-security prison is the same place northeast rebels used to be kept earlier. It is said to be a very secure prison and the sources noted that the local Sikh community is not sympathetic to the Khalistan movement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A senior official told the news agency PTI that a heavily-guarded convoy reached the prison with Singh. He said: "He has been kept in a special cell under tight security. A team from Punjab Police is present in the jail along with personnel of Assam Police."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The official said that a multi-tier security arrangement has been made at the Central Jail. He said: "The jail compound has been surrounded by Assam Police's elite Black Cat Commandos, CRPF and other security personnel."&nbsp;So far, the Assam Police has not yet made any official statement about the security.<strong>&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>The official further explained that the Dibrugarh Central Jail was constructed in 1859-60 by the British on 15.54 acres of land and it is one of the oldest and most well-fortified prisons with reports stating that this jail has never had a major prison break incident in its nearly 170-year history. The source also mentioned that the jail's location - the centre of the town &nbsp;- is also an advantage for authorities to stop any escape attempts. After Amrilpal and his aides were housed there, the security in and around the jail premises has been beefed up.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Local media reports claimed that new CCTV cameras were installed in front of the cells holding Amritpal Singh's aides to constantly monitor their movements.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A senior official told PTI: "The Dibrugarh Central jail compound has been surrounded by Assam Police's elite Black Cat Commandos, CRPF and other security personnel. He (Singh) has been kept in a special cell under very tight security. A team from Punjab Police is present in the jail along with personnel of Assam Police."&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AmritpalSingh?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AmritpalSingh</a> arrested in Moga, Punjab.<br />
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Further details will be shared by <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PunjabPolice?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PunjabPolice</a><br />
<br />
Urge citizens to maintain peace and harmony, Don't share any fake news, always verify and share.</p>
— Punjab Police India (@PunjabPoliceInd) <a href="https://twitter.com/PunjabPoliceInd/status/1649960198348627968?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Amritpal's surrender&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) claimed on Sunday that Amritpal surrendered before the police as per the advice of Akal Takht Jathedar Giani Harpreet Singh. The party said in a statement: "Following the peaceful manner in which Waris Punjab De chief Amritpal Singh handed himself over to the law, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government should proceed against him only as per law and put an immediate end to the prosecution and harassment of innocent Sikhs."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The party referred to March 25, when the Jathedar of Akal Takht, had asked Amritpal to surrender before the police and cooperate with the investigation.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em>&nbsp;</p>

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In a major breakthrough, Punjab police arrested radical preacher Amritpal Singh on Sunday (April 23) from Moga's Rode village after days of a man-hunt when he finally surrendered.

In a major breakthrough, Punjab police arrested radical preacher Amritpal Singh on Sunday (April 23) from Moga's Rode village after days of a man-hunt when he finally surrendered. The same day, Singh was shifted to Dibrugarh in the northeastern Indian state of Assam via a special flight from Bhatinda air force station. He has been kept in a high-security prison just like his other eight aides. Police urged common people to maintain peace and harmony, to not share fake news, and always verify before sharing anything as there were speculations that the arrest of Amritpal might trigger violent protests across the state of Punjab. But amid all this, some were wondering why Amritpal was sent to the Dibrugarh Central Jail, and not kept in Punjab or New Delhi. Amritpal's arrest Amritpal and his aides have been arrested under the National Security Act (NSA). The radical preacher was taken into custody in the early hours of April 23. He surrendered after as he came out of the gurdwara in Rode, Bhindranwale's native village. He was in traditional attire that included a sheathed sword and videos shared on social media purportedly showed that he addressed a gathering at the gurdwara. It is the same place which he took over last year as the chief of Waris Punjab De. Amritpal and his aides face several criminal cases related to spreading disharmony among classes, attempting to murder, attack police personnel and creating obstructions in the lawful discharge of duty by public servants. Indian intelligence agencies have said that the Sikh separatist has been sourcing weapons from Pakistan through its spy agency Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) and trying to divide Punjab on communal lines. Amritpal Singh also faces allegations that he had been allegedly leading young people towards a "gun culture." Dibrugarh Jail Local media outlets reported quoted sources that the main reason behind Amritpal and his aides being taken to the other end of the nation is to avoid any ruckus, which may fuel protests in the aftermath of the arrests. The sources mentioned that it is unlikely that the jails in which they are currently kept have gangsters associated with them or the separatist movement. The sources also said that in Dibrugarh jail, there will be a language barrier for Amritpal - another reason to prevent him from connecting with other inmates and authorities. The high-security prison is the same place northeast rebels used to be kept earlier. It is said to be a very secure prison and the sources noted that the local Sikh community is not sympathetic to the Khalistan movement. A senior official told the news agency PTI that a heavily-guarded convoy reached the prison with Singh. He said: "He has been kept in a special cell under tight security. A team from Punjab Police is present in the jail along with personnel of Assam Police." The official said that a multi-tier security arrangement has been made at the Central Jail. He said: "The jail compound has been surrounded by Assam Police's elite Black Cat Commandos, CRPF and other security personnel." So far, the Assam Police has not yet made any official statement about the security. Watch this report: × The official further explained that the Dibrugarh Central Jail was constructed in 1859-60 by the British on 15.54 acres of land and it is one of the oldest and most well-fortified prisons with reports stating that this jail has never had a major prison break incident in its nearly 170-year history. The source also mentioned that the jail's location - the centre of the town - is also an advantage for authorities to stop any escape attempts. After Amrilpal and his aides were housed there, the security in and around the jail premises has been beefed up. Local media reports claimed that new CCTV cameras were installed in front of the cells holding Amritpal Singh's aides to constantly monitor their movements. A senior official told PTI: "The Dibrugarh Central jail compound has been surrounded by Assam Police's elite Black Cat Commandos, CRPF and other security personnel. He (Singh) has been kept in a special cell under very tight security. A team from Punjab Police is present in the jail along with personnel of Assam Police." #AmritpalSingh arrested in Moga, Punjab. Further details will be shared by #PunjabPolice Urge citizens to maintain peace and harmony, Don't share any fake news, always verify and share. — Punjab Police India (@PunjabPoliceInd) April 23, 2023 × Amritpal's surrender The Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) claimed on Sunday that Amritpal surrendered before the police as per the advice of Akal Takht Jathedar Giani Harpreet Singh. The party said in a statement: "Following the peaceful manner in which Waris Punjab De chief Amritpal Singh handed himself over to the law, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government should proceed against him only as per law and put an immediate end to the prosecution and harassment of innocent Sikhs." The party referred to March 25, when the Jathedar of Akal Takht, had asked Amritpal to surrender before the police and cooperate with the investigation. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Explained: Why Sikh separatist Amritpal Singh is being kept in Assam's Dibrugarh jail

Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu and his Chinese counterpart Li Shangfu will be visiting India's capital New Delhi for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation or the SCO Defence Ministers' meeting. The upcoming visit by both the ministers will be the first.

SCO summit: Russia and China defence ministers to visit India, meeting to be held on April 27-28

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<p>Noor Jehan, an ailing elephant in Pakistan's Karachi Zoo succumbed to critical injuries she received recently, but her death has revived criticisms over the dire state of the nation's zoos. Experts, vets and animal welfare advocates had tried to save the animal, but in vain.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What happened to Noor Jehan?</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

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<p>Noor Jehan's death at the age of 17 is heartbreaking as she was an African elephant whose average lifespan is 60 to 70 years. She had many more years to live.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She recently underwent emergency treatment for a tumour which had crippled her back legs. She became trapped in her enclosure's pool during her recovery period.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The animal charity welfare stated that zoo workers hauled out the 3.5-tonne pachyderm but she could not stand and lay stricken for nine days, "a life-threatening situation for elephants". The statement further noted that experts were even considering euthanasia but before a decision was taken "she succumbed to her critical condition".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Four Paws, an international animal welfare organisation, said, "After fighting for 9 days, she succumbed to her critical condition. She spent too long lying on the ground – a life-threatening situation for elephants." The Austria-based animal organisation had been advising local and international veterinarians on her treatment.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The animal welfare also tweeted that Jehan's story was a "reminder of the suffering that captive wild animals endure in Pakistan and around the world. We hope that the authorities in Pakistan will take this as an example and do better for captive wild animals in the future."&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>State of zoos in Pakistan</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Viral images of Noor Jehan helplessly lying on her side when she was unwell were heartbreaking and also led to widespread criticism of the zoo authorities. It also led to reports in the local media that Karachi Zoo may be shut down permanently. Four Paws said it may be a watershed moment for the well-being of wild animals in captivity in the South Asian nation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The campaigners pushing to close the wildlife show in southern Karachi city highlighted Noor Jehan's misery as evidence of Pakistani zoos' disregard for animal welfare.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Media reports of several deadly incidents underline the poor state of zoos across the country. Noor Jehan's incident is not the first one: two lions died of asphyxiation in recent years in Pakistan when keepers used smoke to try to lure them out of their den. Several white tiger cubs have also died.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A report in 2019 claimed that some 206 birds and 76 other animals died in 2017, while 122 birds and 45 other animals died in 2018. Multiple deaths were also reported in the Peshawar Zoo since it was inaugurated in February 2018.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier this month, the director of the Karachi Zoo was fired due to reports of neglect. A court ordered the closure of the Islamabad Zoo in 2020 - the same zoo where the elephant Kaavan was kept.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In March, Karachi Zoo's Golden Tabby tiger died at 21 and according to sources, the animal had been ill for a long time and apparently failed to receive proper care.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the entire Noor Jehan saga, Four Paws veterinarian Amir Khalil said that Karachi Zoo did not meet international standards. He also urged that Madhubala, the healthy elephant remaining at the zoo, be relocated to avert a second tragedy. The vet urged to provide Madhubala with a more species-appropriate place and give her a chance at a better life.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What's happening at the Karachi Zoo?</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>A report published last month mentioned that zoos across the nation suffer maintenance issues. Reports have emerged of food and staff shortages at a zoo in Karachi city. The animals kept there are said to be malnourished and living in cramped enclosures.</p>

<p>Pakistan is currently in the grip of an extreme economic crisis, burdened with external debt totaling more than $115 billion, surging inflation, and weak development prospects, among other issues.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The dire state of the economy has&nbsp;an impact not only on humans but also on animals as reports of animal food shortages at Karachi Zoo sparked outrage on social media platforms and among animal rights advocates.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Reports noted that the zoo encompasses 43 acres of land and houses 750 animals and birds in 117 separate cages. Tipu Sharif, an animal rescuer who visited Karachi Zoo multiple times, described the zoo habitat as "unsatisfactory". The zoo was founded during British colonial authority.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sharif told Deutsche Welle: "They are malnourished. The management does not have adequate resources to feed them and the food that is supplied to the animals is of not excellent quality. The animals don't have the right kind of space for the type of animals that they are."&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Lack of funds and shortage of staff&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The DW report also mentioned that the zoo also appears to be facing a staff shortage. A zoo employee told Germany's state-owned broadcaster on the condition of anonymity that the zoo has only 14 keepers to feed animals, take care of them and clean cages.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Officials at the zoo say the animals are suffering because there are no adequate funds. A report by the news agency PTI quoted one official as saying: "What can we do without a proper budget? The money generated is not enough to feed all the animals properly and keep the zoo neat and clean."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Several other reports have also highlighted the cruelty shown by the zookeepers and the administration of the Karachi Zoo towards the animals.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

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Noor Jehan, an ailing elephant in Pakistan's Karachi Zoo succumbed to critical injuries she received recently, but her death has revived criticisms over the dire state of the nation's zoos.

Noor Jehan, an ailing elephant in Pakistan's Karachi Zoo succumbed to critical injuries she received recently, but her death has revived criticisms over the dire state of the nation's zoos. Experts, vets and animal welfare advocates had tried to save the animal, but in vain. What happened to Noor Jehan? Noor Jehan's death at the age of 17 is heartbreaking as she was an African elephant whose average lifespan is 60 to 70 years. She had many more years to live. She recently underwent emergency treatment for a tumour which had crippled her back legs. She became trapped in her enclosure's pool during her recovery period. The animal charity welfare stated that zoo workers hauled out the 3.5-tonne pachyderm but she could not stand and lay stricken for nine days, "a life-threatening situation for elephants". The statement further noted that experts were even considering euthanasia but before a decision was taken "she succumbed to her critical condition". Four Paws, an international animal welfare organisation, said, "After fighting for 9 days, she succumbed to her critical condition. She spent too long lying on the ground – a life-threatening situation for elephants." The Austria-based animal organisation had been advising local and international veterinarians on her treatment. The animal welfare also tweeted that Jehan's story was a "reminder of the suffering that captive wild animals endure in Pakistan and around the world. We hope that the authorities in Pakistan will take this as an example and do better for captive wild animals in the future." State of zoos in Pakistan Viral images of Noor Jehan helplessly lying on her side when she was unwell were heartbreaking and also led to widespread criticism of the zoo authorities. It also led to reports in the local media that Karachi Zoo may be shut down permanently. Four Paws said it may be a watershed moment for the well-being of wild animals in captivity in the South Asian nation. The campaigners pushing to close the wildlife show in southern Karachi city highlighted Noor Jehan's misery as evidence of Pakistani zoos' disregard for animal welfare. Media reports of several deadly incidents underline the poor state of zoos across the country. Noor Jehan's incident is not the first one: two lions died of asphyxiation in recent years in Pakistan when keepers used smoke to try to lure them out of their den. Several white tiger cubs have also died. A report in 2019 claimed that some 206 birds and 76 other animals died in 2017, while 122 birds and 45 other animals died in 2018. Multiple deaths were also reported in the Peshawar Zoo since it was inaugurated in February 2018. Earlier this month, the director of the Karachi Zoo was fired due to reports of neglect. A court ordered the closure of the Islamabad Zoo in 2020 - the same zoo where the elephant Kaavan was kept. In March, Karachi Zoo's Golden Tabby tiger died at 21 and according to sources, the animal had been ill for a long time and apparently failed to receive proper care. During the entire Noor Jehan saga, Four Paws veterinarian Amir Khalil said that Karachi Zoo did not meet international standards. He also urged that Madhubala, the healthy elephant remaining at the zoo, be relocated to avert a second tragedy. The vet urged to provide Madhubala with a more species-appropriate place and give her a chance at a better life. What's happening at the Karachi Zoo? A report published last month mentioned that zoos across the nation suffer maintenance issues. Reports have emerged of food and staff shortages at a zoo in Karachi city. The animals kept there are said to be malnourished and living in cramped enclosures. Pakistan is currently in the grip of an extreme economic crisis, burdened with external debt totaling more than $115 billion, surging inflation, and weak development prospects, among other issues. The dire state of the economy has an impact not only on humans but also on animals as reports of animal food shortages at Karachi Zoo sparked outrage on social media platforms and among animal rights advocates. Reports noted that the zoo encompasses 43 acres of land and houses 750 animals and birds in 117 separate cages. Tipu Sharif, an animal rescuer who visited Karachi Zoo multiple times, described the zoo habitat as "unsatisfactory". The zoo was founded during British colonial authority. Sharif told Deutsche Welle: "They are malnourished. The management does not have adequate resources to feed them and the food that is supplied to the animals is of not excellent quality. The animals don't have the right kind of space for the type of animals that they are." Lack of funds and shortage of staff The DW report also mentioned that the zoo also appears to be facing a staff shortage. A zoo employee told Germany's state-owned broadcaster on the condition of anonymity that the zoo has only 14 keepers to feed animals, take care of them and clean cages. Officials at the zoo say the animals are suffering because there are no adequate funds. A report by the news agency PTI quoted one official as saying: "What can we do without a proper budget? The money generated is not enough to feed all the animals properly and keep the zoo neat and clean." Several other reports have also highlighted the cruelty shown by the zookeepers and the administration of the Karachi Zoo towards the animals. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Explained: Dying animals, lack of funds - distressing state of Pakistan zoos

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