<p>A former researcher at a high-profile cryptocurrency group was sentenced to five years and three months in prison on Tuesday for conspiring to help North Korea evade US&nbsp;sanctions using cryptocurrency, federal prosecutors in Manhattan said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Virgil Griffith was arrested in 2019 and pleaded guilty last September to conspiring to violate the International Emergency Economic Powers Act by travelling to North Korea to present on blockchain technology.</p>

<p>Griffith formerly worked for the Ethereum Foundation, a non-profit that works to support the technology behind the cryptocurrency ether.</p>

<p>The sentence, imposed by US&nbsp;District Judge Kevin Castel, was the minimum amount of prison time prosecutors had sought. Griffith had asked for a sentence of two years. Castel also fined Griffith $100,000, below the $1 million prosecutors suggested.</p>

<p>Griffith's attorney Brian Klein said in a statement that while the sentence was disappointing, the judge "acknowledged Virgil's commitment to moving forward with his life productively and that he is a talented person who has a lot to contribute."</p>

<p>US&nbsp;Attorney Damian Williams said in a statement on Tuesday that "justice has been served."</p>

<p>Griffith, who has a doctorate from the California Institute of Technology, travelled to North Korea via China in April 2019 to deliver a presentation at the Pyongyang Blockchain and Cryptocurrency Conference, despite being denied permission by the U.S. Department of State to go, according to prosecutors.</p>

<p>Prosecutors said Griffith understood the information could be used to evade sanctions the U.S. had imposed on North Korea over its development of nuclear weapons technology.</p>

<p>"The most important feature of blockchains is that they are open. And the DPRK can't be kept out no matter what the USA or the UN says," Griffith said during the presentation, according to prosecutors, using the initials of North Korea's official name.</p>

<p>The Ethereum Foundation said at the time of Griffith's arrest that it had not approved or supported his travel to North Korea.</p>


A former researcher at a high-profile cryptocurrency group was sentenced to five years and three months in prison on Tuesday for conspiring to help North Korea evade US sanctions using cryptocurrency, federal prosecutors in Manhattan said.

A former researcher at a high-profile cryptocurrency group was sentenced to five years and three months in prison on Tuesday for conspiring to help North Korea evade US sanctions using cryptocurrency, federal prosecutors in Manhattan said. Virgil Griffith was arrested in 2019 and pleaded guilty last September to conspiring to violate the International Emergency Economic Powers Act by travelling to North Korea to present on blockchain technology. Griffith formerly worked for the Ethereum Foundation, a non-profit that works to support the technology behind the cryptocurrency ether. The sentence, imposed by US District Judge Kevin Castel, was the minimum amount of prison time prosecutors had sought. Griffith had asked for a sentence of two years. Castel also fined Griffith $100,000, below the $1 million prosecutors suggested. Griffith's attorney Brian Klein said in a statement that while the sentence was disappointing, the judge "acknowledged Virgil's commitment to moving forward with his life productively and that he is a talented person who has a lot to contribute." US Attorney Damian Williams said in a statement on Tuesday that "justice has been served." Griffith, who has a doctorate from the California Institute of Technology, travelled to North Korea via China in April 2019 to deliver a presentation at the Pyongyang Blockchain and Cryptocurrency Conference, despite being denied permission by the U.S. Department of State to go, according to prosecutors. Prosecutors said Griffith understood the information could be used to evade sanctions the U.S. had imposed on North Korea over its development of nuclear weapons technology. "The most important feature of blockchains is that they are open. And the DPRK can't be kept out no matter what the USA or the UN says," Griffith said during the presentation, according to prosecutors, using the initials of North Korea's official name. The Ethereum Foundation said at the time of Griffith's arrest that it had not approved or supported his travel to North Korea.

US crypto researcher sentenced to five years for helping North Korea evade sanctions

<p>New Zealand welcomed hundreds of travellers from Australia with emotional scenes on Wednesday as it opened its borders to its trans-Tasmanian neighbour for the first time since mid-2021.</p>

<p>Maori cultural performers greeted travellers while families and friends hugged and cried at the Auckland International Airport where two flights from Australia landed this morning. Those waiting in the arrivals lounge held up boards saying "Hello &amp; Kia Ora &amp; G'day &amp; Welcome".</p>

<p>"Just so, so excited to be back, and all I really want to do is spend time with the family really," Jane Cheeseman told the New Zealand Herald, as she and her two children were reunited with her sister ahead of Easter holiday.</p>

<p>New Zealand had some of the toughest curbs in the world during the pandemic and its borders have been closed for most of the time since March 2020, except for a short-lived travel bubble with Australia last year that was suspended after a few months as COVID-19 spread.</p>

<p>But the government has started to ease these increasingly unpopular measures, hoping to boost tourism and ease labour shortages now that Omicron is widespread domestically.</p>

<p>Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern told Australia's Channel 7 she was "extraordinarily excited" about the reopening.</p>

<p>"I can't actually imagine or remember a time when we would have been just so excited to be welcoming our Australian family back to our shores. It's very genuine," she added.</p>

<p>Air New Zealand said it was running 11 near-full flights from Australia on Wednesday.</p>

<p>"This is the first step in welcoming international visitors back to our shores and we couldn't be more excited for both New Zealand and Air New Zealand," the airline's chief customer and sales officer, Leanne Geraghty, said in a statement.</p>

<p><strong>RULES FOR TRAVELLERS</strong></p>

<p>Foreigners were previously banned from entering New Zealand, and until February citizens looking to return had to either make emergency requests to the government or secure a spot in state quarantine facilities.</p>

<p>Most travellers coming into the country have to undertake pre-departure and arrival testing, while most foreigners are also required to be fully vaccinated.</p>

<p>Tourists from visa-waiver countries including the United States, Britain and Singapore will be able to visit from May 1. The border will remain closed for all other visitors until October.</p>

<p>Chris Hipkins, COVID-19 Response Minister, said curbs in the country would be further eased as the number of new cases fall.</p>

<p>From Thursday, there will be no restrictions on the number of people attending indoor events and there will be some easing on where masks have to be worn.</p>

<p>New Zealand, which has a population of just over 5 million, reported 9,542 new cases in the past 24 hours, well below a peak of more than 20,000 new cases a day. It has recorded just 497 deaths from COVID since the start of the outbreak.&nbsp;</p>


New Zealand welcomed hundreds of travellers from Australia with emotional scenes on Wednesday as it opened its borders to its trans-Tasmanian neighbour for the first time since mid-2021.

New Zealand welcomed hundreds of travellers from Australia with emotional scenes on Wednesday as it opened its borders to its trans-Tasmanian neighbour for the first time since mid-2021. Maori cultural performers greeted travellers while families and friends hugged and cried at the Auckland International Airport where two flights from Australia landed this morning. Those waiting in the arrivals lounge held up boards saying "Hello & Kia Ora & G'day & Welcome". "Just so, so excited to be back, and all I really want to do is spend time with the family really," Jane Cheeseman told the New Zealand Herald, as she and her two children were reunited with her sister ahead of Easter holiday. New Zealand had some of the toughest curbs in the world during the pandemic and its borders have been closed for most of the time since March 2020, except for a short-lived travel bubble with Australia last year that was suspended after a few months as COVID-19 spread. But the government has started to ease these increasingly unpopular measures, hoping to boost tourism and ease labour shortages now that Omicron is widespread domestically. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern told Australia's Channel 7 she was "extraordinarily excited" about the reopening. "I can't actually imagine or remember a time when we would have been just so excited to be welcoming our Australian family back to our shores. It's very genuine," she added. Air New Zealand said it was running 11 near-full flights from Australia on Wednesday. "This is the first step in welcoming international visitors back to our shores and we couldn't be more excited for both New Zealand and Air New Zealand," the airline's chief customer and sales officer, Leanne Geraghty, said in a statement. RULES FOR TRAVELLERS Foreigners were previously banned from entering New Zealand, and until February citizens looking to return had to either make emergency requests to the government or secure a spot in state quarantine facilities. Most travellers coming into the country have to undertake pre-departure and arrival testing, while most foreigners are also required to be fully vaccinated. Tourists from visa-waiver countries including the United States, Britain and Singapore will be able to visit from May 1. The border will remain closed for all other visitors until October. Chris Hipkins, COVID-19 Response Minister, said curbs in the country would be further eased as the number of new cases fall. From Thursday, there will be no restrictions on the number of people attending indoor events and there will be some easing on where masks have to be worn. New Zealand, which has a population of just over 5 million, reported 9,542 new cases in the past 24 hours, well below a peak of more than 20,000 new cases a day. It has recorded just 497 deaths from COVID since the start of the outbreak.

With hugs, tears and Maori performers, New Zealand welcomes Australian visitors as curbs ease

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<p>A <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41591-022-01744-z">study</a> published on Monday (April 11) in the journal&nbsp;<em>Nature Medicine</em>&nbsp;suggests that the magic mushroom's drug psilocybin can help treat depression, leading to long-term improvements in the severe symptoms.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The small study states that the psychedelic compound found in magic mushrooms can help people stop having or getting stuck in negative patterns of thinking.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Magic mushrooms are also called shrooms or mushrooms. They&nbsp;are&nbsp;a type of mushroom that contains the drugs psilocybin or psilocin and these drugs cause hallucinations after consuming.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The study 'Increased global integration in the brain after psilocybin therapy for depression' focuses on the need for new and improved treatments for depression. The study was conducted by the Imperial College of London.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Depression is a medical illness that negatively affects how a person feels, thinks or acts. Although, it is a highly prevalent mental health condition. The incidence of depression has increased during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The study tells that psilocybin therapy shows antidepressant potential.&nbsp;Although, the study also stated that psilocybin therapy's therapeutic actions are not well understood.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Professor David Nutt, head of the Imperial Centre for Psychedelic Research, said as quoted by Daily Mail: "These findings are important because for the first time we find that psilocybin works differently from conventional antidepressants — making the brain more flexible and fluid, and less entrenched in the negative thinking&nbsp;patterns associated with depression."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"This supports our initial predictions and confirms psilocybin could be a real alternative approach to depression treatments," Nutt added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The study assessed the subacute impact of psilocybin on brain function in two clinical trials - the first was an open-label trial of orally administered psilocybin and the second trial was a double-blind phase II randomised controlled trial comparing psilocybin therapy with escitalopram.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A part of the study read: "In both trials, the antidepressant response to psilocybin was rapid, sustained and correlated with decreases in fMRI brain network modularity, implying that psilocybin’s antidepressant action may depend on a global increase in brain network integration."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Fight heat wave with these 7 items in your diet</strong></p>

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A study published on Monday (April 11) in the journal Nature Medicine suggests that the magic mushroom's drug psilocybin can help treat depression, leading to long-term improvements in the severe symptoms.

A study published on Monday (April 11) in the journal Nature Medicine suggests that the magic mushroom's drug psilocybin can help treat depression, leading to long-term improvements in the severe symptoms. The small study states that the psychedelic compound found in magic mushrooms can help people stop having or getting stuck in negative patterns of thinking. Magic mushrooms are also called shrooms or mushrooms. They are a type of mushroom that contains the drugs psilocybin or psilocin and these drugs cause hallucinations after consuming. The study 'Increased global integration in the brain after psilocybin therapy for depression' focuses on the need for new and improved treatments for depression. The study was conducted by the Imperial College of London. Depression is a medical illness that negatively affects how a person feels, thinks or acts. Although, it is a highly prevalent mental health condition. The incidence of depression has increased during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. The study tells that psilocybin therapy shows antidepressant potential. Although, the study also stated that psilocybin therapy's therapeutic actions are not well understood. Professor David Nutt, head of the Imperial Centre for Psychedelic Research, said as quoted by Daily Mail: "These findings are important because for the first time we find that psilocybin works differently from conventional antidepressants — making the brain more flexible and fluid, and less entrenched in the negative thinking patterns associated with depression." "This supports our initial predictions and confirms psilocybin could be a real alternative approach to depression treatments," Nutt added. The study assessed the subacute impact of psilocybin on brain function in two clinical trials - the first was an open-label trial of orally administered psilocybin and the second trial was a double-blind phase II randomised controlled trial comparing psilocybin therapy with escitalopram. A part of the study read: "In both trials, the antidepressant response to psilocybin was rapid, sustained and correlated with decreases in fMRI brain network modularity, implying that psilocybin’s antidepressant action may depend on a global increase in brain network integration." WATCH | Fight heat wave with these 7 items in your diet ×

Magic mushrooms can fight depression as study says psychedelic compound boosts brain's functional networks

<p>Amid the economic crisis in Sri Lanka, India has extended a helping hand to the island nation. On Tuesday (April 12) news agencies reported that the stock of 11,000 MT of rice from India reached Colombo. This was announced ahead of the county's New year celebrations, which will take place on April 14. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Eldos Mathew Punnose, who is the Central Public Information Officer, Indian High Commission in Sri Lanka told ANI: "11000 MT rice from India reached Colombo by ship Chen Glory today ahead of New Year celebration in Sri Lanka."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"16,000 MT of rice was supplied by India to Sri Lanka in the past week itself. These supplies which mark a special bond between two nations will continue," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-designates-pak-handler-of-2016-pathankot-air-base-attack-as-terrorist-470600">India designates Pak handler of 2016 Pathankot air base attack as terrorist</a></strong></p>

<p>"In addition to $1 billion credit line, India supported food medicines and other essential commodities guided by the priority of govt of Sri Lanka. India has also extended USD 500 million credit line to purchase fuel, under this around 2,70,000 MT of petrol, diesel has already arrived in Sri Lanka."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Our relationship with Sri Lanka is multidimensional and it is comprehensive in nature. We are good friends and good neighbours," the Indian high commission official added. '</p>

<p>The Indian high commission official added, "Our relationship with Sri Lanka is multidimensional and it is comprehensive in nature. We are good friends and good neighbours."&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Watch: 11,000 MT of Rice from India reaches Sri Lanka earlier in the day. Rice is part of India's $ 1 Bn line of credit.<br />
<br />
Video Csty: Ministry of Trade , Govt of Sri Lanka <a href="https://t.co/HWEfQRdMDj">https://t.co/HWEfQRdMDj</a> <a href="https://t.co/noeTjDOaKh">pic.twitter.com/noeTjDOaKh</a></p>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1513921245074829316?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 12, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Sri Lanka | 11,000 MT of rice from India reached Colombo before New Year celebrations in the country<br />
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This consignment comes under the $1 billion credit line extended by India. Already 16,000 MT have been supplied under this credit line: Eldos Mathew Punnoose <a href="https://t.co/PwNy7Ir3jW">pic.twitter.com/PwNy7Ir3jW</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1513853020928626689?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 12, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>While speaking to media, the Chairman of State trading corporation, Yoga Perera said that many countries have come forward to help and negotiations going on but India was the first country under credit line delivering the consignment to help Sri Lanka at this time.</p>

<p>Sri Lanka is going through a difficult phase with the economy plunging to record lows. Protests have taken place across the country to call for Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa to step down.&nbsp;</p>

<p>People showed anger at soaring inflation and lengthy power cuts.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


Amid the economic crisis in Sri Lanka, India has extended a helping hand to the island nation. On Tuesday (April 12) news agencies reported that the stock of 11,000 MT of rice from India reached Colombo.

Amid the economic crisis in Sri Lanka, India has extended a helping hand to the island nation. On Tuesday (April 12) news agencies reported that the stock of 11,000 MT of rice from India reached Colombo. This was announced ahead of the county's New year celebrations, which will take place on April 14. Eldos Mathew Punnose, who is the Central Public Information Officer, Indian High Commission in Sri Lanka told ANI: "11000 MT rice from India reached Colombo by ship Chen Glory today ahead of New Year celebration in Sri Lanka." "16,000 MT of rice was supplied by India to Sri Lanka in the past week itself. These supplies which mark a special bond between two nations will continue," he added. ALSO READ | India designates Pak handler of 2016 Pathankot air base attack as terrorist "In addition to $1 billion credit line, India supported food medicines and other essential commodities guided by the priority of govt of Sri Lanka. India has also extended USD 500 million credit line to purchase fuel, under this around 2,70,000 MT of petrol, diesel has already arrived in Sri Lanka." "Our relationship with Sri Lanka is multidimensional and it is comprehensive in nature. We are good friends and good neighbours," the Indian high commission official added. ' The Indian high commission official added, "Our relationship with Sri Lanka is multidimensional and it is comprehensive in nature. We are good friends and good neighbours." Watch: 11,000 MT of Rice from India reaches Sri Lanka earlier in the day. Rice is part of India's $ 1 Bn line of credit. Video Csty: Ministry of Trade , Govt of Sri Lanka https://t.co/HWEfQRdMDj pic.twitter.com/noeTjDOaKh — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) April 12, 2022 × Sri Lanka | 11,000 MT of rice from India reached Colombo before New Year celebrations in the country This consignment comes under the $1 billion credit line extended by India. Already 16,000 MT have been supplied under this credit line: Eldos Mathew Punnoose pic.twitter.com/PwNy7Ir3jW — ANI (@ANI) April 12, 2022 × While speaking to media, the Chairman of State trading corporation, Yoga Perera said that many countries have come forward to help and negotiations going on but India was the first country under credit line delivering the consignment to help Sri Lanka at this time. Sri Lanka is going through a difficult phase with the economy plunging to record lows. Protests have taken place across the country to call for Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa to step down. People showed anger at soaring inflation and lengthy power cuts. (With inputs from agencies)

Sri Lanka economic crisis: 11,000 MT rice from India reaches Colombo ahead of Lanka's New Year

<p>Elon Musk was sued on Tuesday by former&nbsp;Twitter&nbsp;Inc shareholders who claim they missed out on the recent run-up in its stock price because he waited too long to disclose a 9.2% stake in the social media company.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a proposed class action filed in Manhattan federal court, the shareholders said Musk, the chief executive of electric car company Tesla Inc, made "materially false and misleading statements and omissions" by failing to reveal he had invested in&nbsp;Twitter&nbsp;by March 24 as required under federal law.</p>

<p>Twitter&nbsp;shares rose 27% on April 4, to $49.97 from $39.31, after Musk disclosed his stake, which investors viewed as a vote of confidence from the world's richest person in San Francisco-based&nbsp;Twitter.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Former shareholders led by Marc Rasella said the delayed disclosure let Musk buy more&nbsp;Twitter&nbsp;shares at lower prices, while defrauding them into selling at "artificially deflated" prices.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The lawsuit seeks unspecified compensatory and punitive damages.</p>

<p>A lawyer for Musk had no immediate comment. Tesla is not a defendant.</p>

<p>U.S. securities law requires investors to disclose within 10 days when they have acquired 5% of a company, which in Musk's case would have been March 24.</p>

<p>Twitter&nbsp;announced on April 5 that Musk would join its board of directors, but this week said he had decided not to.</p>

<p>By not joining the board, Musk, a prolific&nbsp;Twitter&nbsp;user, can keep buying shares without being bound by his agreement with the company to limit his stake to 14.9%.</p>

<p>Some analysts have suggested Musk could push&nbsp;Twitter&nbsp;to make changes, or even pursue an unsolicited bid for the company.</p>

<p>Rasella said he sold 35&nbsp;Twitter&nbsp;shares for $1,373, or an average price of $39.23, between March 25 and 29. Musk is worth $265.1 billion, according to Forbes magazine.</p>

<p>The case is Rasella v Musk, U.S. District Court, Southern District of New York, No. 22-03026.&nbsp;</p>


Elon Musk was sued on Tuesday by former Twitter Inc shareholders who claim they missed out on the recent run-up in its stock price because he waited too long to disclose a 9.

Elon Musk was sued on Tuesday by former Twitter Inc shareholders who claim they missed out on the recent run-up in its stock price because he waited too long to disclose a 9.2% stake in the social media company. In a proposed class action filed in Manhattan federal court, the shareholders said Musk, the chief executive of electric car company Tesla Inc, made "materially false and misleading statements and omissions" by failing to reveal he had invested in Twitter by March 24 as required under federal law. Twitter shares rose 27% on April 4, to $49.97 from $39.31, after Musk disclosed his stake, which investors viewed as a vote of confidence from the world's richest person in San Francisco-based Twitter. Former shareholders led by Marc Rasella said the delayed disclosure let Musk buy more Twitter shares at lower prices, while defrauding them into selling at "artificially deflated" prices. The lawsuit seeks unspecified compensatory and punitive damages. A lawyer for Musk had no immediate comment. Tesla is not a defendant. U.S. securities law requires investors to disclose within 10 days when they have acquired 5% of a company, which in Musk's case would have been March 24. Twitter announced on April 5 that Musk would join its board of directors, but this week said he had decided not to. By not joining the board, Musk, a prolific Twitter user, can keep buying shares without being bound by his agreement with the company to limit his stake to 14.9%. Some analysts have suggested Musk could push Twitter to make changes, or even pursue an unsolicited bid for the company. Rasella said he sold 35 Twitter shares for $1,373, or an average price of $39.23, between March 25 and 29. Musk is worth $265.1 billion, according to Forbes magazine. The case is Rasella v Musk, U.S. District Court, Southern District of New York, No. 22-03026.

Here's why Elon Musk is sued by Twitter shareholders

<p>India's Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) got Subhash Shankar Parab deported from Egypt to India on Tuesday (April 12) after a long diplomatic and legal process.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Parab is a key accused in connection with the multi-billion dollar Punjab National Bank (PNB) scam in 2018, involving diamantaire Nirav Modi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Officials have stated that a CBI team had gone to Cairo to bring back 50-year-old Parab, who was allegedly kept in illegal confinement in the Egyptian capital city.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Officials added that Parab was the Deputy General Manager (Finance) in Firestar Diamond. He landed in Mumbai early after "deportation".&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the officials, Parab was absconding ever since the case involving diamantaire Nirav Modi&nbsp;and his uncle Mehul Choksi came to light.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India had issued an Interpol Red Notice against Parab to track him and bring him back.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India-based news agencies reported that authorities received information that Parab was kept in illegal confinement by Nirav Modi's men.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As noted by Interpol, charges on Nirav Modi are punishments of criminal conspiracy, criminal breach of trust by public servant, or by banker merchant or agent, cheating and dishonesttly inducing delivery of property, prevention of corruption act.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Officials stated that after a long diplomatic and legal process, the CBI managed to secure "administrative extradition" or deportation of Parab.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Officials believe Parab could spill the beans on the country's biggest banking scam allegedly perpetrated by Nirav Modi and Choksi with a combined loss of Rs13,000 crore.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier, the investigation revealed that the duo is wanted for allegedly siphoning off public money from the state-run PNB, using the Letters of Undertaking.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The investigations revealed that messages for fraudulent LoUs were sent to overseas banks by misusing Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunications (SWIFT), an international messaging system for banking, and without making their subsequent entries in PNB's internal software 'Finacle', thus bypassing any scrutiny of such funds in the bank.&nbsp;</p>

<p>An LoU is a guarantee given by an issuing bank to Indian banks having branches abroad to grant a short-term credit to the applicant.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In case of default, the bank issuing the LoU has to pay the liability to the credit-giving bank along with accruing interest.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The companies of Nirav Modi and Choksi took loans from banks abroad on the basis of these LoUs but did not repay them, thus transferring the liability to PNB.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Nirav Modi is in a London prison after repeated denial of bail and is contesting extradition to India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Choksi had taken the citizenship of Antigua and Barbuda in 2017 using the Citizenship by Investment programme even before fleeing India in the first week of January 2018.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;India's import of Russian oil remains point of contention between New Delhi and Washington</strong></p>

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<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


India's Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) got Subhash Shankar Parab deported from Egypt to India on Tuesday (April 12) after a long diplomatic and legal process.

India's Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) got Subhash Shankar Parab deported from Egypt to India on Tuesday (April 12) after a long diplomatic and legal process. Parab is a key accused in connection with the multi-billion dollar Punjab National Bank (PNB) scam in 2018, involving diamantaire Nirav Modi. Officials have stated that a CBI team had gone to Cairo to bring back 50-year-old Parab, who was allegedly kept in illegal confinement in the Egyptian capital city. Officials added that Parab was the Deputy General Manager (Finance) in Firestar Diamond. He landed in Mumbai early after "deportation". According to the officials, Parab was absconding ever since the case involving diamantaire Nirav Modi and his uncle Mehul Choksi came to light. India had issued an Interpol Red Notice against Parab to track him and bring him back. India-based news agencies reported that authorities received information that Parab was kept in illegal confinement by Nirav Modi's men. As noted by Interpol, charges on Nirav Modi are punishments of criminal conspiracy, criminal breach of trust by public servant, or by banker merchant or agent, cheating and dishonesttly inducing delivery of property, prevention of corruption act. Officials stated that after a long diplomatic and legal process, the CBI managed to secure "administrative extradition" or deportation of Parab. Officials believe Parab could spill the beans on the country's biggest banking scam allegedly perpetrated by Nirav Modi and Choksi with a combined loss of Rs13,000 crore. Earlier, the investigation revealed that the duo is wanted for allegedly siphoning off public money from the state-run PNB, using the Letters of Undertaking. The investigations revealed that messages for fraudulent LoUs were sent to overseas banks by misusing Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunications (SWIFT), an international messaging system for banking, and without making their subsequent entries in PNB's internal software 'Finacle', thus bypassing any scrutiny of such funds in the bank. An LoU is a guarantee given by an issuing bank to Indian banks having branches abroad to grant a short-term credit to the applicant. In case of default, the bank issuing the LoU has to pay the liability to the credit-giving bank along with accruing interest. The companies of Nirav Modi and Choksi took loans from banks abroad on the basis of these LoUs but did not repay them, thus transferring the liability to PNB. Nirav Modi is in a London prison after repeated denial of bail and is contesting extradition to India. Choksi had taken the citizenship of Antigua and Barbuda in 2017 using the Citizenship by Investment programme even before fleeing India in the first week of January 2018. ALSO WATCH | India's import of Russian oil remains point of contention between New Delhi and Washington × (With inputs from agencies)

Who is Subhash Shankar Parab? Nirav Modi's close aide deported to India from Egypt

<p>The ongoing Russia-Ukraine war has created a sense of urgency among the other countries to strengthen their defence capabilities, especially in Europe.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For example, recent reports stated that Finland and Sweden are poised to join the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) as soon as possible.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As quoted by The Times, US officials said that NATO membership for both Nordic countries was "a topic of conversation and multiple sessions" during talks between the alliance's foreign ministers of Sweden and Finland last week.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-boris-johnsons-visit-us-says-joe-biden-doesnt-currently-have-any-plans-to-travel-to-ukraine-470275">After Boris Johnson's visit, US says Joe Biden 'doesn't currently have any plans' to travel to Ukraine</a></strong></p>

<p>However, Russia has warned both nations about the potential bids. On Monday (April 11), the Kremlin said that the possible accession of Sweden and Finland to the NATO military alliance would not bring stability to Europe.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We have repeatedly said that the alliance remains a tool geared towards confrontation … and its further expansion will not bring additional security to the European continent," news agency Reuters quoted Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov as saying.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He made the remarks to the reporters during a conference call after he was asked about the possibility of Sweden and Finland joining NATO.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-says-india-not-violating-any-sanctions-by-importing-russian-oil-470364">US says India not violating any sanctions by importing Russian oil</a></strong></p>

<p>NATO Secretary-General, Jens Stoltenberg, has said it would be possible to allow Finland and Sweden in "quite quickly" but NATO has not commented on what a fast-track process would be.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Atlantic Council Senior Fellow, Rachel Rizzo said in case both the countries apply for membership, their accession would need to be agreed by all 30 allies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“They work so closely with NATO in terms of exercises and in light of the Russian invasion, enhanced intelligence sharing that I do think that the relationship that NATO has already with Finland and Sweden means that there is a certain amount of protection that those two countries already have," she said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Ukraine invasion: What Modi told Biden</strong></p>

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<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


The ongoing Russia-Ukraine war has created a sense of urgency among the other countries to strengthen their defence capabilities, especially in Europe. For example, recent reports stated that Finland and Sweden are poised to join the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) as soon as possible.

The ongoing Russia-Ukraine war has created a sense of urgency among the other countries to strengthen their defence capabilities, especially in Europe. For example, recent reports stated that Finland and Sweden are poised to join the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) as soon as possible. As quoted by The Times, US officials said that NATO membership for both Nordic countries was "a topic of conversation and multiple sessions" during talks between the alliance's foreign ministers of Sweden and Finland last week. ALSO READ | After Boris Johnson's visit, US says Joe Biden 'doesn't currently have any plans' to travel to Ukraine However, Russia has warned both nations about the potential bids. On Monday (April 11), the Kremlin said that the possible accession of Sweden and Finland to the NATO military alliance would not bring stability to Europe. "We have repeatedly said that the alliance remains a tool geared towards confrontation … and its further expansion will not bring additional security to the European continent," news agency Reuters quoted Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov as saying. He made the remarks to the reporters during a conference call after he was asked about the possibility of Sweden and Finland joining NATO. ALSO READ | US says India not violating any sanctions by importing Russian oil NATO Secretary-General, Jens Stoltenberg, has said it would be possible to allow Finland and Sweden in "quite quickly" but NATO has not commented on what a fast-track process would be. Atlantic Council Senior Fellow, Rachel Rizzo said in case both the countries apply for membership, their accession would need to be agreed by all 30 allies. “They work so closely with NATO in terms of exercises and in light of the Russian invasion, enhanced intelligence sharing that I do think that the relationship that NATO has already with Finland and Sweden means that there is a certain amount of protection that those two countries already have," she said. WATCH | Gravitas: Ukraine invasion: What Modi told Biden × (With inputs from agencies)

'Will not bring security to Europe': Russia warns Finland and Sweden against joining NATO

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<p>India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken met on Monday (April 11) and exchanged views on the current global situation and discussed bilateral cooperation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Jaishankar and Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh are in the United States for the India-US 2+2 ministerial dialogue which was held on Monday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Taking to his Twitter account, Jaishankar wrote: "Began the day with a breakfast meeting with @SecBlinken. Wide ranging exchange of views on the global situation, regional hotspots and bilateral cooperation. Took place with the comfort and openness of true strategic partners."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Jaishankar said that the 2+2 Dialogue would enable both sides to undertake a comprehensive review of cross-cutting issues in the India-US bilateral agenda related to foreign policy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The talks will also strengthen defence and security with the objective of providing strategic guidance and a vision for further consolidating the relationship.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The 2+2 Dialogue will also provide an opportunity to exchange views about important regional and global developments and how we can work together to address issues of common interest and concern," he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>This 2+2 ministerial dialogue between India and US is the first under the Biden administration being hosted by Blinken and US Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Blinken said, "These 2+2 meetings have already played a key role in strengthening our bilateral relationship...Today's discussions will build upon previous productive meetings that we've had. It's a momentous moment in global affairs."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Blinken added, "Today, we'll discuss pressing issues, shared global challenges - incl Russia's war against Ukraine, ending COVID-19 pandemic, climate crisis, upholding a free, open democratic, secure &amp; prosperous Indo-Pacific Region."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>US will stand by India</strong></p>

<p>Austin assured India that the US will continue to stand by it in the face of threats from China. He said, "Beijing is eroding the security of the Indo-Pacific region from its construction of dual-use infrastructure along your border to its unlawful claims in the South China Sea, and we will continue to stand alongside you as you defend your sovereign interest."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Austin hailed the India-US 2+2 dialogue and said that they were meeting "at a critical moment in the US-India defence partnership".</p>

<p>He said: "Our partnership is based on a shared vision of a free and open Indo-Pacific region, one grounded in principles such as the rule of law and national sovereignty. We`re facing urgent and mounting challenges to this shared vision."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"China is attempting to challenge and undermine the sovereignty of its neighbours," he said.</p>

<p>Rajnath Singh, who was greeted by an honour guard at the Pentagon, did not mention China or Russia in his response, which was in Hindi with English language interpretation.</p>

<p>He said that "our visit here shall take India-US comprehensive strategic partnership to the next level".&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added, "Major defence partnership is one of the most important pillars of India-US strategic relations. India has critical roles to play in Indian Ocean Region&amp;wider Indo-Pacific following Act East and Neighbourhood First policies."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Modi-Biden virtual meet</strong></p>

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Joe Biden discussed Ukraine during the virtual meet on Monday. The two leaders had an extensive exchange of views on several regional and global issues, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, global economic recovery, climate action, recent developments in South Asia and the Indo-Pacific region, and the situation in Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: The growing challenges in India's neighbourhood</strong></p>

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India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken met on Monday (April 11) and exchanged views on the current global situation and discussed bilateral cooperation.

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken met on Monday (April 11) and exchanged views on the current global situation and discussed bilateral cooperation. Jaishankar and Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh are in the United States for the India-US 2+2 ministerial dialogue which was held on Monday. Taking to his Twitter account, Jaishankar wrote: "Began the day with a breakfast meeting with @SecBlinken. Wide ranging exchange of views on the global situation, regional hotspots and bilateral cooperation. Took place with the comfort and openness of true strategic partners." Jaishankar said that the 2+2 Dialogue would enable both sides to undertake a comprehensive review of cross-cutting issues in the India-US bilateral agenda related to foreign policy. The talks will also strengthen defence and security with the objective of providing strategic guidance and a vision for further consolidating the relationship. "The 2+2 Dialogue will also provide an opportunity to exchange views about important regional and global developments and how we can work together to address issues of common interest and concern," he said. This 2+2 ministerial dialogue between India and US is the first under the Biden administration being hosted by Blinken and US Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin. Meanwhile, Blinken said, "These 2+2 meetings have already played a key role in strengthening our bilateral relationship...Today's discussions will build upon previous productive meetings that we've had. It's a momentous moment in global affairs." Blinken added, "Today, we'll discuss pressing issues, shared global challenges - incl Russia's war against Ukraine, ending COVID-19 pandemic, climate crisis, upholding a free, open democratic, secure & prosperous Indo-Pacific Region." US will stand by India Austin assured India that the US will continue to stand by it in the face of threats from China. He said, "Beijing is eroding the security of the Indo-Pacific region from its construction of dual-use infrastructure along your border to its unlawful claims in the South China Sea, and we will continue to stand alongside you as you defend your sovereign interest." Austin hailed the India-US 2+2 dialogue and said that they were meeting "at a critical moment in the US-India defence partnership". He said: "Our partnership is based on a shared vision of a free and open Indo-Pacific region, one grounded in principles such as the rule of law and national sovereignty. We`re facing urgent and mounting challenges to this shared vision." "China is attempting to challenge and undermine the sovereignty of its neighbours," he said. Rajnath Singh, who was greeted by an honour guard at the Pentagon, did not mention China or Russia in his response, which was in Hindi with English language interpretation. He said that "our visit here shall take India-US comprehensive strategic partnership to the next level". He added, "Major defence partnership is one of the most important pillars of India-US strategic relations. India has critical roles to play in Indian Ocean Region&wider Indo-Pacific following Act East and Neighbourhood First policies." Modi-Biden virtual meet Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Joe Biden discussed Ukraine during the virtual meet on Monday. The two leaders had an extensive exchange of views on several regional and global issues, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, global economic recovery, climate action, recent developments in South Asia and the Indo-Pacific region, and the situation in Ukraine. WATCH | Gravitas: The growing challenges in India's neighbourhood ×

India-US 2+2 dialogue a 'momentous moment' in global affairs

<p>The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has shared a stunning image on its official Instagram handle, leaving the social media users in complete awe.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The image is so intriguing that one of the users wrote that it "looks like alien footprints on mars". Mars? Yes, the image is certainly from the Red Planet.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The image posted by NASA is a new image of a Mars crater.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the post, NASA wrote: "The Martian crater marks the spot. You’re looking at 0° longitude on Mars—the Greenwich Observatory equivalent on the Red Planet."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The post added that the Greenwich Observatory marks Earth’s Prime Meridian, which is a north-south line that defines where east meets west and is used as the zero reference line for astronomical observations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>NASA revealed that the larger crater that sits within this crater, called the Airy Crater, originally defined zero longitude for Mars.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, as higher resolution photos became available, a smaller feature was needed. This crater, called Airy-0 (zero) was selected because it did not need to adjust existing maps.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The space agency noted that the image was captured by the High-Resolution Imaging Science Experiment (HiRISE), on the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter. The map is projected here at a scale of 50 centimetres (19.7 inches) per pixel.&nbsp;</p>

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The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has shared a stunning image on its official Instagram handle, leaving the social media users in complete awe.

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has shared a stunning image on its official Instagram handle, leaving the social media users in complete awe. The image is so intriguing that one of the users wrote that it "looks like alien footprints on mars". Mars? Yes, the image is certainly from the Red Planet. The image posted by NASA is a new image of a Mars crater. In the post, NASA wrote: "The Martian crater marks the spot. You’re looking at 0° longitude on Mars—the Greenwich Observatory equivalent on the Red Planet." The post added that the Greenwich Observatory marks Earth’s Prime Meridian, which is a north-south line that defines where east meets west and is used as the zero reference line for astronomical observations. NASA revealed that the larger crater that sits within this crater, called the Airy Crater, originally defined zero longitude for Mars. However, as higher resolution photos became available, a smaller feature was needed. This crater, called Airy-0 (zero) was selected because it did not need to adjust existing maps. The space agency noted that the image was captured by the High-Resolution Imaging Science Experiment (HiRISE), on the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter. The map is projected here at a scale of 50 centimetres (19.7 inches) per pixel. View this post on Instagram A post shared by NASA (@nasa) ×

'Looks like alien footprints': NASA posts stunning image. Read details here

<p>Last year in September, US carmaker Ford announced that it will stop manufacturing vehicles in India due to accumulating losses of more than $2 billion. Ford had two manufacturing plants in India - one in Sanand (Gujarat) and one in Chennai (Tamil Nadu).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Now, the shuttered factories may be reborn and contribute to the nation's EV push. The Economic Times newspaper reported last week that the government in Tamil Nadu is "holding talks with Ford" to explore if its factory there can be "converted to a plant manufacturing and exporting electric vehicles".&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report also quoted Ford as saying that it was "exploring the possibility of using a plant in India as an export base."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Another report by the same media outlet, which was published three weeks ago, noted that Tata Motors is in advanced negotiations to take over Ford India's Sanand plant in Gujarat.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Ford Motor Co said on Monday (April 11) it has signed a preliminary deal to buy lithium from a Lake Resources NL facility in Argentina, marking the first time the automaker has publicly announced where it will procure the electric vehicle battery metal.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The deal is a major bet by Ford on direct lithium extraction (DLE), a relatively new breed of technology that filters the metal from brines and uses far less acreage than open-pit mines and evaporation ponds.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ford Chief Executive Jim Farley said in February that his company was working on deals to secure supply of key raw materials for batteries such as lithium, nickel, rare earths and copper.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"This is one of several agreements we're exploring to help Ford secure raw materials to support our aggressive EV acceleration plan," said Ford spokesperson Jennifer Flake.&nbsp;</p>

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<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Last year in September, US carmaker Ford announced that it will stop manufacturing vehicles in India due to accumulating losses of more than $2 billion. Ford had two manufacturing plants in India - one in Sanand (Gujarat) and one in Chennai (Tamil Nadu).

Last year in September, US carmaker Ford announced that it will stop manufacturing vehicles in India due to accumulating losses of more than $2 billion. Ford had two manufacturing plants in India - one in Sanand (Gujarat) and one in Chennai (Tamil Nadu). Now, the shuttered factories may be reborn and contribute to the nation's EV push. The Economic Times newspaper reported last week that the government in Tamil Nadu is "holding talks with Ford" to explore if its factory there can be "converted to a plant manufacturing and exporting electric vehicles". The report also quoted Ford as saying that it was "exploring the possibility of using a plant in India as an export base." Another report by the same media outlet, which was published three weeks ago, noted that Tata Motors is in advanced negotiations to take over Ford India's Sanand plant in Gujarat. Meanwhile, Ford Motor Co said on Monday (April 11) it has signed a preliminary deal to buy lithium from a Lake Resources NL facility in Argentina, marking the first time the automaker has publicly announced where it will procure the electric vehicle battery metal. The deal is a major bet by Ford on direct lithium extraction (DLE), a relatively new breed of technology that filters the metal from brines and uses far less acreage than open-pit mines and evaporation ponds. Ford Chief Executive Jim Farley said in February that his company was working on deals to secure supply of key raw materials for batteries such as lithium, nickel, rare earths and copper. "This is one of several agreements we're exploring to help Ford secure raw materials to support our aggressive EV acceleration plan," said Ford spokesperson Jennifer Flake. × (With inputs from agencies)

In electric vehicle push, Ford's closed factories in India may be reopened: Report

<p>The rescue operations have ended after a fatal accident at the Trikut Ropeway service in Jharkhand's Deoghar in India took place on Sunday, authorities said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The cars collided when one of them became partly dislodged from its cable. None of the cars fell to the ground but both became immobilised.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Reports have stated that the accident occurred due to the breaking of the sap of the ropeway operated on the mountain.&nbsp;</p>

<p>All the tourists trapped in cable cars have been rescued, while one more person fell off a helicopter when she was being winched up. The death toll in the incident is reported to be three.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Three people have died in the mishap, including two tourists who fell from helicopters on Monday and Tuesday during rescue attempts, while 12 injured people are undergoing treatment at hospitals," officials said as quoted by news agencies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Additional Director General of Police RK Mallick told India-based news agency PTI, "Of the remaining 15 people trapped in cable cars, 14 have been rescued while a woman fell off the chopper during the course of rescue operation."&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;<br />
The woman has been identified as 60-year-old Shobha Devi, who was apparently declared dead on being taken to a hospital.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The rescue operations were undertaken jointly by the Indian Air Force (IAF), Army, Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and the district personnel.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The aerial tramway takes pilgrims to the top of a hill called Trikut, which Hindus consider holy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Jharkhand High Court on Tuesday took suo motu cognizance of the mishap and ordered an inquiry into the matter. The court will hear the matter on April 26. The state has to file a detailed inquiry report through an affidavit.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IAF?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IAF</a> carried out rescue of stranded passengers on the Trikut Hills ropeway in Deoghar district of Jharkhand on 11 &amp; 12 Apr 22. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IAF?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IAF</a> Mi-17V5 &amp; ALH Mk III heptrs flew 28 sorties &amp; 26 hrs during this activity.</p>
— Indian Air Force (@IAF_MCC) <a href="https://twitter.com/IAF_MCC/status/1513808410327674884?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 12, 2022</a></blockquote>
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The rescue operations have ended after a fatal accident at the Trikut Ropeway service in Jharkhand's Deoghar in India took place on Sunday, authorities said. The cars collided when one of them became partly dislodged from its cable.

The rescue operations have ended after a fatal accident at the Trikut Ropeway service in Jharkhand's Deoghar in India took place on Sunday, authorities said. The cars collided when one of them became partly dislodged from its cable. None of the cars fell to the ground but both became immobilised. Reports have stated that the accident occurred due to the breaking of the sap of the ropeway operated on the mountain. All the tourists trapped in cable cars have been rescued, while one more person fell off a helicopter when she was being winched up. The death toll in the incident is reported to be three. "Three people have died in the mishap, including two tourists who fell from helicopters on Monday and Tuesday during rescue attempts, while 12 injured people are undergoing treatment at hospitals," officials said as quoted by news agencies. Additional Director General of Police RK Mallick told India-based news agency PTI, "Of the remaining 15 people trapped in cable cars, 14 have been rescued while a woman fell off the chopper during the course of rescue operation." The woman has been identified as 60-year-old Shobha Devi, who was apparently declared dead on being taken to a hospital. The rescue operations were undertaken jointly by the Indian Air Force (IAF), Army, Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and the district personnel. The aerial tramway takes pilgrims to the top of a hill called Trikut, which Hindus consider holy. Meanwhile, Jharkhand High Court on Tuesday took suo motu cognizance of the mishap and ordered an inquiry into the matter. The court will hear the matter on April 26. The state has to file a detailed inquiry report through an affidavit. #IAF carried out rescue of stranded passengers on the Trikut Hills ropeway in Deoghar district of Jharkhand on 11 & 12 Apr 22. #IAF Mi-17V5 & ALH Mk III heptrs flew 28 sorties & 26 hrs during this activity. — Indian Air Force (@IAF_MCC) April 12, 2022 ×

VIDEO | Jharkhand ropeway accident: Three dead, trapped tourists rescued; HC orders inquiry

<p>The United States on Monday (April 11) said that energy imports are not banned from Russia and India is not violating any sanctions by purchasing energy from Moscow.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The remarks were made during a White House press briefing after US President Joe Biden and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a virtual meeting and discussed several issues.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"This was a constructive call, it was a productive call. It's a relationship that is vitally important to the United States and to the president. I would not see it as an adversarial call," said the White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki during Monday's news conference.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-us-22-dialogue-a-momentous-moment-in-global-affairs-470362">India-US 2+2 dialogue a 'momentous moment' in global affairs</a></strong></p>

<p>On being asked whether Biden has urged&nbsp;India to limit importing Russian energy, Psaki said, "Energy imports are not banned and they don't violate our sanctions. We certainly recognise that every country is going to take a step in their interest."&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, she added that Biden has told PM Modi that it was not in India's interest to increase its imports of energy from Russia. She added, "I will let Prime Minister Modi and Indians speak on that. It's only 1-2 per cent at this point in time, they export 10 per cent from the United States. It is no violation of any sanctions or anything along those lines."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Following Western sanctions on Russian entities in the wake of the Ukraine war, India purchased at least 13 million barrels of Russian crude oil at a discounted rate.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-desires-peace-and-stability-pm-modi-congratulates-newly-elected-pakistan-pm-shehbaz-sharif-470328">'India desires peace and stability': PM Modi congratulates newly elected Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif</a></strong></p>

<p>Psaki also mentioned other aspects related to India's response&nbsp;and the humanitarian support&nbsp;it has provided to Ukraine amid the ongoing war.</p>

<p>She said the US has seen India speak out more forcefully against Russia's invasion of Ukraine, particularly "as it relates to the horrific photos that we saw around Bucha".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We have seen them to take steps to provide humanitarian assistance and a range of assistance, but it is something we always encourage leaders to do - to speak out, to be vocal, to ensure they are on the right side of history," she said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Ukraine invasion: What Modi told Biden</strong></p>

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<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The United States on Monday (April 11) said that energy imports are not banned from Russia and India is not violating any sanctions by purchasing energy from Moscow.

The United States on Monday (April 11) said that energy imports are not banned from Russia and India is not violating any sanctions by purchasing energy from Moscow. The remarks were made during a White House press briefing after US President Joe Biden and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a virtual meeting and discussed several issues. "This was a constructive call, it was a productive call. It's a relationship that is vitally important to the United States and to the president. I would not see it as an adversarial call," said the White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki during Monday's news conference. ALSO READ | India-US 2+2 dialogue a 'momentous moment' in global affairs On being asked whether Biden has urged India to limit importing Russian energy, Psaki said, "Energy imports are not banned and they don't violate our sanctions. We certainly recognise that every country is going to take a step in their interest." However, she added that Biden has told PM Modi that it was not in India's interest to increase its imports of energy from Russia. She added, "I will let Prime Minister Modi and Indians speak on that. It's only 1-2 per cent at this point in time, they export 10 per cent from the United States. It is no violation of any sanctions or anything along those lines." Following Western sanctions on Russian entities in the wake of the Ukraine war, India purchased at least 13 million barrels of Russian crude oil at a discounted rate. ALSO READ | 'India desires peace and stability': PM Modi congratulates newly elected Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif Psaki also mentioned other aspects related to India's response and the humanitarian support it has provided to Ukraine amid the ongoing war. She said the US has seen India speak out more forcefully against Russia's invasion of Ukraine, particularly "as it relates to the horrific photos that we saw around Bucha". "We have seen them to take steps to provide humanitarian assistance and a range of assistance, but it is something we always encourage leaders to do - to speak out, to be vocal, to ensure they are on the right side of history," she said. WATCH | Gravitas: Ukraine invasion: What Modi told Biden × (With inputs from agencies)

US says India not violating any sanctions by importing Russian oil

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