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The outgoing German envoy to Delhi Walter J. Lindner has said that India can't be "finger pointed" for importing Russian oil and that "every country has different history, different position, dependencies". Indian commercial traders are increasingly trying to get cheap Russian oil as western sanctions are imposed on Moscow in the aftermath of its invasion of Ukraine. Speaking to WION's Diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Envoy Lindner said, "We in Europe had a very strong and big dependency from Russian energy, we still have. So, what we are doing, is to try to reduce, reduce, reduce and by end of August we will have zero imports of Russian oil. Coal is gone right now".

He said that India should be "invited all the time to G7". Germany is the chair of the grouping this year and will be hosting the summit from 26 to 28 June 2022 at Schloss Elmau in the Bavarian Alps. Indian PM Modi travels to the G7 summit in Germany later this month. Last month too he was in Berlin for the inter-governmental consultations.

A well-known Indophile, the envoy in the past is&nbsp;a top German diplomat and Germany's foreign secretary to India. As his three&nbsp;and half year stint in India comes to a close, he retires soon.&nbsp;

What is interesting is his first impression of India came from watching the 1971 "Concert for Bangladesh" by George Harrison and Ravi Shankar. The young Walter J. Lindner worked as a truck driver and in McDonald's to collect money to visit India. Asked about his love for India, in his last interview as the envoy, he said, "Now I am leaving as an ambassador, but this travel is by no means over, so it (India) will be destination for me for next 20 years and I will come back." He is a trained musician.&nbsp;

WION: What has been the most challenging part of your India tenure?

Walter J. Lindner: I think the last three and a half years for everyone, not only diplomats, journalists, everyone has been very different because you know I arrived in spring 2019 and we had normal diplomatic life, we had the chancellor here, members of the parliament and interaction with many people but then came Covid and it took away 2 years of interacting with people. It was lockdown, you could not fly, you could not meet people.&nbsp;

2 years were gone and then we had Ukraine and which always dominated discussions. This is kind of a very peculiar 3 and half year period. We started well with the chancellor coming here and we ended 3 and half years well with your PM coming to Germany and coming to Germany again in a few weeks. So I think, things have started to be normal again, at least normalisation is starting and so I am looking for my successor.

WION: The Indian PM is expected to visit Germany for the G7. How do you see Indian PM Modi's presence and what will be the key priority for the summit?

Walter J. Lindner: I think it is very important that India is there, and already for a few years, India has been a permanent invitee there. It is important, given the 1.3 billion people in the country, the importance of India, it is just fair that it is there. It adds to an extra point of view because G7 are mostly the industrialised countries, we have a big country like India from the south, it adds to a totally different aspect.&nbsp;

A lot of focus will be on the Ukraine crisis. If you are in Europe, this is dominating the talk. PMs know it, it has been the case in many meetings. This will be dominating, also the post covid situation how do we deal with pandemics, how do we make things better in the future and how do we deal with renewable energy, green economy issue because after we have the restart of the economies. Then we have terrorism and global developments.

WION: Do you think India should become a permanent member of the G7 in the near future?

Walter J. Lindner: I think first, India should be a permanent member of the Security Council because that is where it belongs. G7 is a particular group of countries which are developed and high developing countries, so I think this is not a question.&nbsp;

The important thing is at the security council it should be a permanent member and should be invited all the time to the G7 and then it will be the president of the G20 next year. This is very important because whatever is discussed at the G7 has an impact on the G20 so if the two presidents, Germany now and India next are in sync then next year I think it will be very helpful for the international development.

WION: You mentioned the Russian invasion of Ukraine. How do you see India's position, particularly India importing cheap Russian crude oil?

Walter J. Lindner: Every country has a different history, different positions, and dependencies. We in Europe had a very strong and big dependency on Russian energy, (which) we still have. So, what we are doing, is to try to reduce, reduce, reduce and by end of August, we will have zero imports of Russian oil.&nbsp;

Coal is gone right now and then by end of next year, we will have zero imports of Russian gas. So, we do a lot there, but India has much less import from Russia, and I think we should not finger point India, but rather emphasise that we have reduced to zero our European dependency on Russian energy and then other nations in the world will do the same.

WION: You are an Indophile, you love India can you tell me about how it all started...

Walter J. Lindner: It started 45 years ago during the hippie time when we in Europe considered India as a country where you have spiritual attraction and where you have people totally dedicated to life values and while in the west, we were more into making money and economy progress. This was the philosophy 40 years ago.&nbsp;

We had authors Hermann Hesse, his book Siddhartha and then solidarity concerts which led us European, or western youth to find India as the travel destination. So, I have worked as a taxi driver, truck driver, and at Mcdonald's just to get money to travel to India.&nbsp;

40 years ago, I visited India and experienced it for myself. Now I am leaving as an ambassador, but this travel is by no means over, so it will be a destination for me for the next 20 years and I will come back.

WION: And what happens to Amby, the famous red ambassador car you travelled around in Delhi...and your non-diplomatic way of reaching out?

Walter J. Lindner: Amby, as much as I love her, she belongs to India. I would not bring her to the snow of Germany or ice roads. It will remain here but as for what will be her fate in future, I will talk to her and see if my successor gets along well with her. If he does and agrees, he might accompany her. Her will and wish. We must ask if she wants to retire in a cool place here but I think we need to respect her will.

WION: How do you think global geopolitics will change because of the Russian invasion of Ukraine?

Walter J. Lindner: Back in the 90s when the wall came down, there was a period of 10-20 years...we have now reached a status where things are going better. We have the global development goals, the end of history, no more cold war, Gorbachev, Bill Clinton...we thought things were moving in the right direction. They were there for a while, but nobody expected Putin to initiate this incredible brutal war. Now the consequence of this is not good, the peace we had in the early years of the 2000s--we were investing money into development, cultural projects, and rather not into the military.&nbsp;

Consequently, now many nations will spend much more money on the military, and this money is needed for other things which we must finance; (like) climate change, and development. So, this kind of militarisation of international politics is not a good development.

WION: And you think China can follow in Russia's steps?

Walter J. Lindner: Well, I don't want to mention a particular country but what is important to tell Putin is that this is not your success story for you. You made a big mistake. Other nations, I don't want to name them, think twice-- if they think in future, that well, we (will) follow a model like Putin, invade an innocent nation and get away with it. If we show Putin, you can't do this, we show it to countries which might think they can (also) do this.

The outgoing German envoy to Delhi Walter J. Lindner has said that India can't be "finger pointed" for importing Russian oil and that "every country has different history, different position, dependencies".

The outgoing German envoy to Delhi Walter J. Lindner has said that India can't be "finger pointed" for importing Russian oil and that "every country has different history, different position, dependencies". Indian commercial traders are increasingly trying to get cheap Russian oil as western sanctions are imposed on Moscow in the aftermath of its invasion of Ukraine. Speaking to WION's Diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Envoy Lindner said, "We in Europe had a very strong and big dependency from Russian energy, we still have. So, what we are doing, is to try to reduce, reduce, reduce and by end of August we will have zero imports of Russian oil. Coal is gone right now". He said that India should be "invited all the time to G7". Germany is the chair of the grouping this year and will be hosting the summit from 26 to 28 June 2022 at Schloss Elmau in the Bavarian Alps. Indian PM Modi travels to the G7 summit in Germany later this month. Last month too he was in Berlin for the inter-governmental consultations. A well-known Indophile, the envoy in the past is a top German diplomat and Germany's foreign secretary to India. As his three and half year stint in India comes to a close, he retires soon. What is interesting is his first impression of India came from watching the 1971 "Concert for Bangladesh" by George Harrison and Ravi Shankar. The young Walter J. Lindner worked as a truck driver and in McDonald's to collect money to visit India. Asked about his love for India, in his last interview as the envoy, he said, "Now I am leaving as an ambassador, but this travel is by no means over, so it (India) will be destination for me for next 20 years and I will come back." He is a trained musician. WION: What has been the most challenging part of your India tenure? Walter J. Lindner: I think the last three and a half years for everyone, not only diplomats, journalists, everyone has been very different because you know I arrived in spring 2019 and we had normal diplomatic life, we had the chancellor here, members of the parliament and interaction with many people but then came Covid and it took away 2 years of interacting with people. It was lockdown, you could not fly, you could not meet people. 2 years were gone and then we had Ukraine and which always dominated discussions. This is kind of a very peculiar 3 and half year period. We started well with the chancellor coming here and we ended 3 and half years well with your PM coming to Germany and coming to Germany again in a few weeks. So I think, things have started to be normal again, at least normalisation is starting and so I am looking for my successor. WION: The Indian PM is expected to visit Germany for the G7. How do you see Indian PM Modi's presence and what will be the key priority for the summit? Walter J. Lindner: I think it is very important that India is there, and already for a few years, India has been a permanent invitee there. It is important, given the 1.3 billion people in the country, the importance of India, it is just fair that it is there. It adds to an extra point of view because G7 are mostly the industrialised countries, we have a big country like India from the south, it adds to a totally different aspect. A lot of focus will be on the Ukraine crisis. If you are in Europe, this is dominating the talk. PMs know it, it has been the case in many meetings. This will be dominating, also the post covid situation how do we deal with pandemics, how do we make things better in the future and how do we deal with renewable energy, green economy issue because after we have the restart of the economies. Then we have terrorism and global developments. WION: Do you think India should become a permanent member of the G7 in the near future? Walter J. Lindner: I think first, India should be a permanent member of the Security Council because that is where it belongs. G7 is a particular group of countries which are developed and high developing countries, so I think this is not a question. The important thing is at the security council it should be a permanent member and should be invited all the time to the G7 and then it will be the president of the G20 next year. This is very important because whatever is discussed at the G7 has an impact on the G20 so if the two presidents, Germany now and India next are in sync then next year I think it will be very helpful for the international development. WION: You mentioned the Russian invasion of Ukraine. How do you see India's position, particularly India importing cheap Russian crude oil? Walter J. Lindner: Every country has a different history, different positions, and dependencies. We in Europe had a very strong and big dependency on Russian energy, (which) we still have. So, what we are doing, is to try to reduce, reduce, reduce and by end of August, we will have zero imports of Russian oil. Coal is gone right now and then by end of next year, we will have zero imports of Russian gas. So, we do a lot there, but India has much less import from Russia, and I think we should not finger point India, but rather emphasise that we have reduced to zero our European dependency on Russian energy and then other nations in the world will do the same. WION: You are an Indophile, you love India can you tell me about how it all started... Walter J. Lindner: It started 45 years ago during the hippie time when we in Europe considered India as a country where you have spiritual attraction and where you have people totally dedicated to life values and while in the west, we were more into making money and economy progress. This was the philosophy 40 years ago. We had authors Hermann Hesse, his book Siddhartha and then solidarity concerts which led us European, or western youth to find India as the travel destination. So, I have worked as a taxi driver, truck driver, and at Mcdonald's just to get money to travel to India. 40 years ago, I visited India and experienced it for myself. Now I am leaving as an ambassador, but this travel is by no means over, so it will be a destination for me for the next 20 years and I will come back. WION: And what happens to Amby, the famous red ambassador car you travelled around in Delhi...and your non-diplomatic way of reaching out? Walter J. Lindner: Amby, as much as I love her, she belongs to India. I would not bring her to the snow of Germany or ice roads. It will remain here but as for what will be her fate in future, I will talk to her and see if my successor gets along well with her. If he does and agrees, he might accompany her. Her will and wish. We must ask if she wants to retire in a cool place here but I think we need to respect her will. WION: How do you think global geopolitics will change because of the Russian invasion of Ukraine? Walter J. Lindner: Back in the 90s when the wall came down, there was a period of 10-20 years...we have now reached a status where things are going better. We have the global development goals, the end of history, no more cold war, Gorbachev, Bill Clinton...we thought things were moving in the right direction. They were there for a while, but nobody expected Putin to initiate this incredible brutal war. Now the consequence of this is not good, the peace we had in the early years of the 2000s--we were investing money into development, cultural projects, and rather not into the military. Consequently, now many nations will spend much more money on the military, and this money is needed for other things which we must finance; (like) climate change, and development. So, this kind of militarisation of international politics is not a good development. WION: And you think China can follow in Russia's steps? Walter J. Lindner: Well, I don't want to mention a particular country but what is important to tell Putin is that this is not your success story for you. You made a big mistake. Other nations, I don't want to name them, think twice-- if they think in future, that well, we (will) follow a model like Putin, invade an innocent nation and get away with it. If we show Putin, you can't do this, we show it to countries which might think they can (also) do this.

Can't 'finger point' India, says German Envoy Lindner on Russian oil import

India registered more than 4,000 coronavirus actions after nearly three months, taking country’s total tally of COVID-19 cases to 4,31,68,585, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Friday.

With the addition of 4,041 new cases in a span of 24 hours, the active cases touched 21,177, while the national COVID-19 recovery rate was 98.74 per cent, the ministry said.

The death toll also climbed to 5,24,651 with 10 fresh fatalities, the data stated. The active cases comprise 0.05 per cent of the total infections.

Among the Indian states, western Maharashtra has been registering more than 1,000 COVID-19 cases in the past four days. The state had recorded 1,081 cases on Wednesday, the number dipped to 1,048 on Thursday. Of the new 1,048 cases, Mumbai recorded 704 cases, which accounts for 67 per cent of the total cases in Maharashtra. On Wednesday, the city had recorded 739 infections.

Delhi, on the other hand, recorded 373 fresh COVID-19 cases, and two deaths on Thursday.

India's COVID-19 tally had crossed the 2-million mark on August 7, 2020, 3-millions on August 23, 4-million on September 5 and 5-million on September 16. It went past 6-million on September 28, 7-million on October 11, crossed 8-million on October 29, 9-million on November 20 and surpassed 100-million mark on December 19.

The country crossed the grim milestone of 200 million on May 4 and 300 million on June 23 last year.

As per the health ministry, India conducted 4,25,379 COVID-19 tests in the last 24 hours. The country has so far conducted 8.5 billion tests, as per the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) data.

The country has administered more than 19 billion vaccine doses so far under the Nationwide Vaccination Drive.

Watch WION's live TV here:

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India registered more than 4,000 coronavirus actions after nearly three months, taking country’s total tally of COVID-19 cases to 4,31,68,585, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Friday.

India registered more than 4,000 coronavirus actions after nearly three months, taking country’s total tally of COVID-19 cases to 4,31,68,585, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Friday. With the addition of 4,041 new cases in a span of 24 hours, the active cases touched 21,177, while the national COVID-19 recovery rate was 98.74 per cent, the ministry said. The death toll also climbed to 5,24,651 with 10 fresh fatalities, the data stated. The active cases comprise 0.05 per cent of the total infections. Among the Indian states, western Maharashtra has been registering more than 1,000 COVID-19 cases in the past four days. The state had recorded 1,081 cases on Wednesday, the number dipped to 1,048 on Thursday. Of the new 1,048 cases, Mumbai recorded 704 cases, which accounts for 67 per cent of the total cases in Maharashtra. On Wednesday, the city had recorded 739 infections. Delhi, on the other hand, recorded 373 fresh COVID-19 cases, and two deaths on Thursday. India's COVID-19 tally had crossed the 2-million mark on August 7, 2020, 3-millions on August 23, 4-million on September 5 and 5-million on September 16. It went past 6-million on September 28, 7-million on October 11, crossed 8-million on October 29, 9-million on November 20 and surpassed 100-million mark on December 19. The country crossed the grim milestone of 200 million on May 4 and 300 million on June 23 last year. As per the health ministry, India conducted 4,25,379 COVID-19 tests in the last 24 hours. The country has so far conducted 8.5 billion tests, as per the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) data. The country has administered more than 19 billion vaccine doses so far under the Nationwide Vaccination Drive. Watch WION's live TV here:

India registers over 4,000 Covid infections after nearly 3 months; 10 deaths in 24 hours

Even as world bicycle day was marked on Friday, Denmark's ambassador Freddy Svane hoped that use of cycle will be as normal in Delhi has it has been in Copenhagen. Copenhagen is known as the as the bicycle capital of the world with it being the dominate mode of transportation in the Danish capital.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-eu-bans-most-russian-oil-targets-putins-alleged-girlfriend-with-sanctions-484812" hreflang="en">EU bans most Russian oil, targets Putin's alleged girlfriend with sanctions</a>

Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal, envoy Svane said, "it is important, everybody can do, every town, every city has to do it. It boils to political willingness and next week in fact I am going to meet Delhi CM Kejriwal, and he has asked me to talk about bicycling and hopefully one day it is safe to ride a bike, morning to evening in Delhi, that is my hope". A term-- Copenhagenization also exists that means other cities trying to follow the example set by the city and increase the usage of cycles.

Denmark embassy, the housing ministry, and Public Health Foundation of India on Friday morning organized an event involving cyclist. A mural depicting cycles and its role in a greener planet was also painted on the wall of the Danish embassy in Delhi. &nbsp;The Ambassador said, "In order to deal with climate change we need to go back in the past and bicycling and cycling was part of our past and I think all of us have grown up with bicycle. so, this is the way forward and for sure, let's turn into modern fashion that we will use our own bikes, it is good for the health, good for the climate and good for the society. &nbsp;

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He also talked about the recent visit of PM Modi to his country. He said "I think it was the best visit ever, signifying the green strategic partnership is really the direction we need not only for India, Denmark and beyond that and it is very, very important. I think our 2 prime ministers, took a ride for greener, better, and greater future.". PM was in Copenhagen last month for the 2nd India Nordic summit.

Even as world bicycle day was marked on Friday, Denmark's ambassador Freddy Svane hoped that use of cycle will be as normal in Delhi has it has been in Copenhagen.

Even as world bicycle day was marked on Friday, Denmark's ambassador Freddy Svane hoped that use of cycle will be as normal in Delhi has it has been in Copenhagen. Copenhagen is known as the as the bicycle capital of the world with it being the dominate mode of transportation in the Danish capital. Also read | EU bans most Russian oil, targets Putin's alleged girlfriend with sanctions Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal, envoy Svane said, "it is important, everybody can do, every town, every city has to do it. It boils to political willingness and next week in fact I am going to meet Delhi CM Kejriwal, and he has asked me to talk about bicycling and hopefully one day it is safe to ride a bike, morning to evening in Delhi, that is my hope". A term-- Copenhagenization also exists that means other cities trying to follow the example set by the city and increase the usage of cycles. Denmark embassy, the housing ministry, and Public Health Foundation of India on Friday morning organized an event involving cyclist. A mural depicting cycles and its role in a greener planet was also painted on the wall of the Danish embassy in Delhi. The Ambassador said, "In order to deal with climate change we need to go back in the past and bicycling and cycling was part of our past and I think all of us have grown up with bicycle. so, this is the way forward and for sure, let's turn into modern fashion that we will use our own bikes, it is good for the health, good for the climate and good for the society. Also read | HK students rebel, hide 'goddess of democracy' statues around campus He also talked about the recent visit of PM Modi to his country. He said "I think it was the best visit ever, signifying the green strategic partnership is really the direction we need not only for India, Denmark and beyond that and it is very, very important. I think our 2 prime ministers, took a ride for greener, better, and greater future.". PM was in Copenhagen last month for the 2nd India Nordic summit.

On world bicycle day, Denmark envoy hopes Copenhagen model can be adopted in Delhi

Iran's foreign minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian will be on India visit next week, with key focus expected to be on connectivity especially via Chabahar port, and on the situation on Afghanistan. This will be Amir-Abdollahian's first visit ever to India since taking charge last year. He was expected to visit India earlier this year, but that got postponed as External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar was confirmed with covid.&nbsp;

Chabahar remains the key focus area of engagement as India is developing the 1st Phase of Shahid Beheshti Port at Chabahar. After operations began at the Chabahar port in December 2018, the port has handled more than 8200 TEUs and 1.28 million tonnes of bulk cargo.

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The visit comes even as in a significant development, Indian government team led by joint secretary in Pakistan Afghanistan Iran division of ministry of external affairs JP Singh was in Kabul. This was the first ever Indian govt team in Kabul since Taliban takeover of Afghanistan last year.

Last month both the foreign ministers had telephonic conversation in which EAM invited the Iranian counterpart to visit Delhi. During the conversation, both the ministers discussed situation in Afghanistan, Yemen, and Ukraine.

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Interestingly, on Friday Indian foreign minister made an interesting comment on sanctions on Iran oil vis a vis India importing oil from Russia. Speaking at an event in Slovakia, he said, "If countries in Europe, the west and the US are so concerned why don't they allow Iranian, Venezuelan oil to come into the market. I mean they have squeezed every other source of oil we have and then say oky guys you should not go into the market and get the best oil for your people. I don't think that is fair"

Iran's foreign minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian will be on India visit next week, with key focus expected to be on connectivity especially via Chabahar port, and on the situation on Afghanistan.

Iran's foreign minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian will be on India visit next week, with key focus expected to be on connectivity especially via Chabahar port, and on the situation on Afghanistan. This will be Amir-Abdollahian's first visit ever to India since taking charge last year. He was expected to visit India earlier this year, but that got postponed as External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar was confirmed with covid. Chabahar remains the key focus area of engagement as India is developing the 1st Phase of Shahid Beheshti Port at Chabahar. After operations began at the Chabahar port in December 2018, the port has handled more than 8200 TEUs and 1.28 million tonnes of bulk cargo. Also read | EU bans most Russian oil, targets Putin's alleged girlfriend with sanctions The visit comes even as in a significant development, Indian government team led by joint secretary in Pakistan Afghanistan Iran division of ministry of external affairs JP Singh was in Kabul. This was the first ever Indian govt team in Kabul since Taliban takeover of Afghanistan last year. Last month both the foreign ministers had telephonic conversation in which EAM invited the Iranian counterpart to visit Delhi. During the conversation, both the ministers discussed situation in Afghanistan, Yemen, and Ukraine. Also read | Elon Musk may cut 10% jobs in Tesla, he has 'super bad feeling' about economy Interestingly, on Friday Indian foreign minister made an interesting comment on sanctions on Iran oil vis a vis India importing oil from Russia. Speaking at an event in Slovakia, he said, "If countries in Europe, the west and the US are so concerned why don't they allow Iranian, Venezuelan oil to come into the market. I mean they have squeezed every other source of oil we have and then say oky guys you should not go into the market and get the best oil for your people. I don't think that is fair"

Iran Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian to visit India next week

In India, a pair of advocates have moved the Supreme Court seeking a ban on the sale of loose cigarettes, and an increase in the age of smoking from the current 18 to 21.&nbsp;The advocates Shubham Awasthi and Sapta Rishi Mishra claim that in India the number of smokers has steadily gone up over the last two decades. Calling it an epidemic the duo said that India for the age group of 16-64, now ranks second in the smokers' category.&nbsp;As per the plea young people are now increasingly getting addicted to tobacco products, thinking they look "cool".

It added that youngsters "see adults smoking and it becomes a rite of passage or their inducement to initiate smoking to show that they are matured now."&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;WHO outlines the negative impact of the tobacco industry on world no tobacco day

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The plea cited a study on the burden of second-hand smoke borne by the nation.&nbsp;

"That a study published in the Journal of Nicotine and Tobacco Research has flagged the severe economic burden of second-hand smoke exposure in India. The study revealed that second hand smoke causes Rs 567 billion in health care costs annually. This accounts for eight per cent of total annual health care expenditure, on top of Rs 1,773 billion in annual economic burden from tobacco use."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-no-tobacco-day-2022-a-threat-to-environment-483731">World No Tobacco Day 2022: 'A threat to environment'</a>

As per the plea, human rights principles can also be invoked as a justification for protecting youngsters from active smoking. It goes on to say that most "smokers" start at a young age when they lack the capacity for rational, long-term decision making, that they start smoking under peer pressure, and end up being addicted to the nicotine.

Seeking an increase in the legality age for smoking from 18 years to 21 years, the plea also asks for a ban on the sale of loose cigarettes, removal of cigarette vendors near public buildings, educational institutions and places of worship etc.

It also sought guidelines for the closing of dedicated smoking zones at airports, restaurants etc.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In India, a pair of advocates have moved the Supreme Court seeking a ban on the sale of loose cigarettes, and an increase in the age of smoking from the current 18 to 21.

In India, a pair of advocates have moved the Supreme Court seeking a ban on the sale of loose cigarettes, and an increase in the age of smoking from the current 18 to 21. The advocates Shubham Awasthi and Sapta Rishi Mishra claim that in India the number of smokers has steadily gone up over the last two decades. Calling it an epidemic the duo said that India for the age group of 16-64, now ranks second in the smokers' category. As per the plea young people are now increasingly getting addicted to tobacco products, thinking they look "cool". It added that youngsters "see adults smoking and it becomes a rite of passage or their inducement to initiate smoking to show that they are matured now." Watch | WHO outlines the negative impact of the tobacco industry on world no tobacco day The plea cited a study on the burden of second-hand smoke borne by the nation. "That a study published in the Journal of Nicotine and Tobacco Research has flagged the severe economic burden of second-hand smoke exposure in India. The study revealed that second hand smoke causes Rs 567 billion in health care costs annually. This accounts for eight per cent of total annual health care expenditure, on top of Rs 1,773 billion in annual economic burden from tobacco use." Also read | World No Tobacco Day 2022: 'A threat to environment' As per the plea, human rights principles can also be invoked as a justification for protecting youngsters from active smoking. It goes on to say that most "smokers" start at a young age when they lack the capacity for rational, long-term decision making, that they start smoking under peer pressure, and end up being addicted to the nicotine. Seeking an increase in the legality age for smoking from 18 years to 21 years, the plea also asks for a ban on the sale of loose cigarettes, removal of cigarette vendors near public buildings, educational institutions and places of worship etc. It also sought guidelines for the closing of dedicated smoking zones at airports, restaurants etc. (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.

In India PIL seeks increase of smoking age from 18 to 21, says youngsters start to smoke to look 'cool'

‘Fit India Freedom Rider Cycle Rally’ was launched by Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports Anurag Thakur from Major Dhyan Chand Stadium, Delhi on the occasion of World Bicycle Day 2022, as he himself peddled a distance of 7.5kms with 750 cyclists.

"Cycling can play the biggest role in the Fit India campaign. On World Bicycle Day, we are giving a clear message that everyone should make cycling a part of their daily life. Cycling will keep you healthy and help build a clean India," Thakur said in a release.&nbsp;

"On the world bicycle day, across the country, thousands of cyclists have joined us for the camping for fit India movement, Khelo India movement, Clean India movement and Health India movement. By using the bicycle you can cut down the pollution level, you can stay fit and you can also promote the clean India campaign because there will be less pollution or no pollution by the use of bicycles," he added.

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Here’s how Fit India organised <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FitIndiaFreedomRider?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FitIndiaFreedomRider</a> Cycle Rally at Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium, New Delhi on the occasion of World Bicycle Day 
 
Take a look at the glimpses from the event 🤩<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CyclingForIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CyclingForIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FitIndiaMovement?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FitIndiaMovement</a> <a href="https://t.co/Uku2bErmSY">pic.twitter.com/Uku2bErmSY</a>
— Fit India Movement (@FitIndiaOff) <a href="https://twitter.com/FitIndiaOff/status/1532645664596799488?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 3, 2022</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Apart from Thakur, Union Minister of Law and Justice Kiren Rijiju, Minister for Health &amp; Family Welfare Mansukh Mandviya, MoS for culture and external affairs Meenakshi Lekhi, and MPs Manoj Tiwari, Harsh Vardhan and Ramesh Bidhuri also attended the event.

More than 9.68 lakh kilometres of distance will be covered by 1.29 lakh young cyclists through the proposed bicycle rallies organized today on World Bicycle Day 2022.

The aim of cycle rallies organized in the country is to encourage and motivate people to adopt cycling in their daily lives for physical fitness and keep them immune to health disorders including obesity, stress, anxiety, and diseases.

The cycle rallies across India on World Bicycle Day have been organized by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports as part of the celebration of Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav-India@75.

[with inputs from agencies]

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‘Fit India Freedom Rider Cycle Rally’ was launched by Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports Anurag Thakur from Major Dhyan Chand Stadium, Delhi on the occasion of World Bicycle Day 2022, as he himself peddled a distance of 7.

‘Fit India Freedom Rider Cycle Rally’ was launched by Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports Anurag Thakur from Major Dhyan Chand Stadium, Delhi on the occasion of World Bicycle Day 2022, as he himself peddled a distance of 7.5kms with 750 cyclists. "Cycling can play the biggest role in the Fit India campaign. On World Bicycle Day, we are giving a clear message that everyone should make cycling a part of their daily life. Cycling will keep you healthy and help build a clean India," Thakur said in a release. "On the world bicycle day, across the country, thousands of cyclists have joined us for the camping for fit India movement, Khelo India movement, Clean India movement and Health India movement. By using the bicycle you can cut down the pollution level, you can stay fit and you can also promote the clean India campaign because there will be less pollution or no pollution by the use of bicycles," he added. Here’s how Fit India organised #FitIndiaFreedomRider Cycle Rally at Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium, New Delhi on the occasion of World Bicycle Day Take a look at the glimpses from the event 🤩#CyclingForIndia #FitIndiaMovement pic.twitter.com/Uku2bErmSY — Fit India Movement (@FitIndiaOff) June 3, 2022 × Apart from Thakur, Union Minister of Law and Justice Kiren Rijiju, Minister for Health & Family Welfare Mansukh Mandviya, MoS for culture and external affairs Meenakshi Lekhi, and MPs Manoj Tiwari, Harsh Vardhan and Ramesh Bidhuri also attended the event. More than 9.68 lakh kilometres of distance will be covered by 1.29 lakh young cyclists through the proposed bicycle rallies organized today on World Bicycle Day 2022. The aim of cycle rallies organized in the country is to encourage and motivate people to adopt cycling in their daily lives for physical fitness and keep them immune to health disorders including obesity, stress, anxiety, and diseases. The cycle rallies across India on World Bicycle Day have been organized by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports as part of the celebration of Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav-India@75. [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.

Anurag Thakur launches ‘Fit India Freedom Rider Cycle Rally’

A 29-year-old bank manager hailing from Rajasthan was shot dead by a terrorist of banned Lashkar-e-Taiba inside his office premises in South Kashmir’s Kulgam district on Thursday. Sine January, 16 people have lost their lives in targeted killings in the valley, there has also been a series of terror attacks on people.

Target Killing in Kashmir: Bank manager from Rajasthan shot dead in Kulgam district

Tearing apart Pakistan for raising the Jammu and Kashmir issue in the UN Security Council, India said that its neighbouring country is a live example of how a nation continues to evade accountability for serious crimes of genocide and ethnic cleansing in&nbsp;Bangladesh.

Dr Kajal Bhat, Counsellor and Legal Adviser in India’s Permanent Mission to the UN, was retorting to comments made by the representative of at the UN Security Council open debate on “Strengthening accountability and justice for serious violations of international law”.

The debate was chaired by Council President Albania.

Bhat said that she was constrained to respond to some of the falsehoods and malicious propaganda spread by the representative of Pakistan as they are accustomed to doing like a “broken record”.

“The irony is perhaps lost on the representative of Pakistan, given their shameful history of committing genocide in what was then East Pakistan, and what is now Bangladesh, over 50 years back for which there has not even been an acknowledgement, much less apology or accountability,” Bhat said.

To ask them to reflect on this is perhaps asking too much, but the least they could do is not sully the dignity of this Council, Bhat said and noted that innocent women, children, academics and intellectuals were treated as weapons of war during ‘Operation Searchlight’.

She further said that the reign of terror unleashed by Pakistan on the population of the then East Pakistan resulted in thousands killed brutally and several thousands of women raped.

Speaking a day earlier in the council, Minister for State for External Affairs Dr Rajkumar Ranjan Singh had said that accountability and justice cannot be linked to political expediencies.

“The representative of Pakistan presents a live example to the Security Council of how a state continues to evade accountability for serious crimes of genocide and ethnic cleansing. To ask them to reflect on this is perhaps asking too much, but the least they could do is not sully the dignity of this Council,” she said.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Tearing apart Pakistan for raising the Jammu and Kashmir issue in the UN Security Council, India said that its neighbouring country is a live example of how a nation continues to evade accountability for serious crimes of genocide and ethnic cleansing in Bangladesh.

Tearing apart Pakistan for raising the Jammu and Kashmir issue in the UN Security Council, India said that its neighbouring country is a live example of how a nation continues to evade accountability for serious crimes of genocide and ethnic cleansing in Bangladesh. Dr Kajal Bhat, Counsellor and Legal Adviser in India’s Permanent Mission to the UN, was retorting to comments made by the representative of at the UN Security Council open debate on “Strengthening accountability and justice for serious violations of international law”. The debate was chaired by Council President Albania. Bhat said that she was constrained to respond to some of the falsehoods and malicious propaganda spread by the representative of Pakistan as they are accustomed to doing like a “broken record”. “The irony is perhaps lost on the representative of Pakistan, given their shameful history of committing genocide in what was then East Pakistan, and what is now Bangladesh, over 50 years back for which there has not even been an acknowledgement, much less apology or accountability,” Bhat said. To ask them to reflect on this is perhaps asking too much, but the least they could do is not sully the dignity of this Council, Bhat said and noted that innocent women, children, academics and intellectuals were treated as weapons of war during ‘Operation Searchlight’. She further said that the reign of terror unleashed by Pakistan on the population of the then East Pakistan resulted in thousands killed brutally and several thousands of women raped. Speaking a day earlier in the council, Minister for State for External Affairs Dr Rajkumar Ranjan Singh had said that accountability and justice cannot be linked to political expediencies. “The representative of Pakistan presents a live example to the Security Council of how a state continues to evade accountability for serious crimes of genocide and ethnic cleansing. To ask them to reflect on this is perhaps asking too much, but the least they could do is not sully the dignity of this Council,” she said. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here:

Pak live example of how to evade accountability for genocide, ethnic cleansing: India at UN

A 24-year-old Indian girl is going to have a special wedding. Well, it will definitely be unique of sorts as she is set to marry herself on June 11, media reports said. Yes, there will not be any groom or any kind of baraat. The girl, Kshama Bindu, is poised to have a traditional-style wedding. It will have several rituals, like pheras, sindoor&nbsp;and others. It is also special as it will probably be first self-marriage or sologamy in Indian state of Gujarat. “I never wanted to get married. But I did want to become a bride. So, I decided to marry myself. Maybe, I am the first to set an example of self-love in our country,” Kshama told TOI. &nbsp;

“Self-marriage is a commitment to be there for yourself and unconditional love for oneself. It’s also an act of self-acceptance. People marry someone they love. I love myself and hence, this wedding,” added Kshama, who works with a private firm. The girl understands that some people may consider self-marriages irrelevant. “But what I am actually trying to portray is that women matter,” she said. &nbsp;

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According to the girl, the parents, who are open-minded, have also given their blessings for the wedding, which will be conducted at a temple in Gotri. Not just this, she has also scripted five vows for the wedding and looks to go for a two-week honeymoon in Goa. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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A 24-year-old Indian girl is going to have a special wedding. Well, it will definitely be unique of sorts as she is set to marry herself on June 11, media reports said.

A 24-year-old Indian girl is going to have a special wedding. Well, it will definitely be unique of sorts as she is set to marry herself on June 11, media reports said. Yes, there will not be any groom or any kind of baraat. The girl, Kshama Bindu, is poised to have a traditional-style wedding. It will have several rituals, like pheras, sindoor and others. It is also special as it will probably be first self-marriage or sologamy in Indian state of Gujarat. “I never wanted to get married. But I did want to become a bride. So, I decided to marry myself. Maybe, I am the first to set an example of self-love in our country,” Kshama told TOI. “Self-marriage is a commitment to be there for yourself and unconditional love for oneself. It’s also an act of self-acceptance. People marry someone they love. I love myself and hence, this wedding,” added Kshama, who works with a private firm. The girl understands that some people may consider self-marriages irrelevant. “But what I am actually trying to portray is that women matter,” she said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE According to the girl, the parents, who are open-minded, have also given their blessings for the wedding, which will be conducted at a temple in Gotri. Not just this, she has also scripted five vows for the wedding and looks to go for a two-week honeymoon in Goa. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

In a first, 24-year-old Indian girl opts for ‘rare’ self-marriage. Read details here

Indian-origin man in Singapore pleaded guilty to two charges of breaching coronavirus (COVID-19) safety measures during last year's New Year celebrations, India-based news agency PTI reported on Wednesday (June 1) citing The Straits Times newspaper. He has been fined 4,000 Singaporean dollars.&nbsp;

The 19-year-old man, identified as Kotra Venkata Sai Rohankrishna, breached COVID-19 (Temporary Measures) (Control Order) Regulations 2020 last year when he attended the New Year's Eve party dressed in a Spiderman costume.&nbsp;

The newspaper reported that Sai Rohankrishna and three of his friends joined a crowd in Clarke Quay to film footage for his YouTube Channel.&nbsp;

The video was apparently uploaded a few days later and in the footage, Sai Rohankrishna can be seen flouting COVID-19 safe management measures. He engaged the crowd.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/in-2011-billionaire-elon-musk-promised-to-send-man-to-mars-in-next-10-years-netizens-seek-update-484049">In 2011, billionaire Elon Musk promised to send man to Mars in next 10 years. Netizens seek update</a>

In the court documents, Deputy Public Prosecutor Jeremy Bin said that create a video for his YouTube channel sometime on or before New Year's Eve last year. He interviewed intoxicated members of the public for the video.&nbsp;

Reports have mentioned that Kotra was in a Spiderman costume to attract attention to himself. He also did not wear a face mask under the costume. The face masks were then required under COVID-19 regulations.&nbsp;

The media report added that from about 11.30 pm to around 12.15 am the next day, the four of them gathered with numerous members of the public at various locations in Clarke Quay. &nbsp;

While putting a fine on Kotra, the Deputy Public Prosecutor said in his written sentencing submissions that Kotra had organised the outing and that the breach was premeditated.&nbsp;

Bin added, "Based on the nature of the breach and the accused's culpability, a fine is sufficient. Nevertheless, the accused was the mastermind in the present case. His culpability is the highest of any person in the Clarke Quay incident charged thus far."&nbsp;

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Indian-origin man in Singapore pleaded guilty to two charges of breaching coronavirus (COVID-19) safety measures during last year's New Year celebrations, India-based news agency PTI reported on Wednesday (June 1) citing The Straits Times newspaper.

Indian-origin man in Singapore pleaded guilty to two charges of breaching coronavirus (COVID-19) safety measures during last year's New Year celebrations, India-based news agency PTI reported on Wednesday (June 1) citing The Straits Times newspaper. He has been fined 4,000 Singaporean dollars. The 19-year-old man, identified as Kotra Venkata Sai Rohankrishna, breached COVID-19 (Temporary Measures) (Control Order) Regulations 2020 last year when he attended the New Year's Eve party dressed in a Spiderman costume. The newspaper reported that Sai Rohankrishna and three of his friends joined a crowd in Clarke Quay to film footage for his YouTube Channel. The video was apparently uploaded a few days later and in the footage, Sai Rohankrishna can be seen flouting COVID-19 safe management measures. He engaged the crowd. ALSO READ | In 2011, billionaire Elon Musk promised to send man to Mars in next 10 years. Netizens seek update In the court documents, Deputy Public Prosecutor Jeremy Bin said that create a video for his YouTube channel sometime on or before New Year's Eve last year. He interviewed intoxicated members of the public for the video. Reports have mentioned that Kotra was in a Spiderman costume to attract attention to himself. He also did not wear a face mask under the costume. The face masks were then required under COVID-19 regulations. The media report added that from about 11.30 pm to around 12.15 am the next day, the four of them gathered with numerous members of the public at various locations in Clarke Quay. While putting a fine on Kotra, the Deputy Public Prosecutor said in his written sentencing submissions that Kotra had organised the outing and that the breach was premeditated. Bin added, "Based on the nature of the breach and the accused's culpability, a fine is sufficient. Nevertheless, the accused was the mastermind in the present case. His culpability is the highest of any person in the Clarke Quay incident charged thus far." 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.

A Spiderman? Indian-origin man fined for flouting Covid rules in Singapore

Terrorists shot and killed a bank manager from Rajasthan in Kulgam, Jammu and Kashmir, in the Valley's second targeted attack in three days. 
 
As he was being transported to the hospital following the attack, Vijay Kumar, the manager of Elaqahi Dehati Bank, lost his last breath.

"Terrorists fired upon a bank manager at Ellaqie Dehati Bank at Areh Mohanpora in Kulgam district. He received grievous gunshot injuries in this terror incident. He is a resident of Hanumangarh, Rajasthan," ANI quoted J&amp;K police as saying. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/hindu-teacher-shot-dead-ouside-government-school-in-kashmir-483774">Also read | Hindu teacher shot dead outside government school in Kashmir</a>

They stated that the area had been cordoned off. 
 
This occurs after Rajni Bala, a teacher, was killed in Kulgam the day before.

Meanwhile, Hindus working in Kashmir organised a demonstration in Jammu, demanding protection for their community members.

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Terrorists shot and killed a bank manager from Rajasthan in Kulgam, Jammu and Kashmir, in the Valley's second targeted attack in three days. As he was being transported to the hospital following the attack, Vijay Kumar, the manager of Elaqahi Dehati Bank, lost his last breath.

Terrorists shot and killed a bank manager from Rajasthan in Kulgam, Jammu and Kashmir, in the Valley's second targeted attack in three days. As he was being transported to the hospital following the attack, Vijay Kumar, the manager of Elaqahi Dehati Bank, lost his last breath. "Terrorists fired upon a bank manager at Ellaqie Dehati Bank at Areh Mohanpora in Kulgam district. He received grievous gunshot injuries in this terror incident. He is a resident of Hanumangarh, Rajasthan," ANI quoted J&K police as saying. Also read | Hindu teacher shot dead outside government school in Kashmir They stated that the area had been cordoned off. This occurs after Rajni Bala, a teacher, was killed in Kulgam the day before. Meanwhile, Hindus working in Kashmir organised a demonstration in Jammu, demanding protection for their community members. 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.

Jammu and Kashmir: Bank manager from Rajasthan shot dead in Kulgam

In a first since the Taliban takeover of Afghanistan, an Indian government team is currently in Kabul to oversee humanitarian assistance. They are also expected to meet senior members of the Taliban leadership.

The Indian team is led by the Joint Secretary, Pakistan Afghanistan Iran (PAI) division of the Ministry of External Affairs, JP Singh. Last year, on the sidelines of the Moscow format of talks on Afghanistan in Delhi, JP Singh had meet Taliban leadership.

The development comes even as New Delhi has been sending assistance to the Afghan people despite not recognising the Taliban regime.

India doesn't recognise the Taliban regime but that hasn't stopped it from reaching out to Afghan people with wheat, vaccines—polio and Covid—and winter clothing. In the aftermath of the Taliban takeover in August last year, India had shut its mission in the country.

In a statement, the Ministry of External Affairs said, "During the visit, the team will meet representatives of the international organisations involved in the distribution of the humanitarian assistance.”

India has sent several shipments of humanitarian assistance consisting of 20,000 MTs of wheat, 13 tons of medicines, 500,000 doses of Covid vaccine and winter clothing to Afghanistan. These consignments were handed over to the India Gandhi Children Hospital, Kabul, and UN specialized agencies including WHO and WFP.

India had also gifted one million doses of India-made COVAXIN to Iran to administer to Afghan refugees in Iran.

Important to note that during their stay, the Indian team is “expected to visit various places where Indian programmes/projects are being implemented", the MEA release said.

India has built the Afghan Parliament and the India-Afghanistan friendship dam in western Herat Province. Along with this, New Delhi has also taken up 116 high impact community development projects in 31 provinces of the country.

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In a first since the Taliban takeover of Afghanistan, an Indian government team is currently in Kabul to oversee humanitarian assistance. They are also expected to meet senior members of the Taliban leadership.

In a first since the Taliban takeover of Afghanistan, an Indian government team is currently in Kabul to oversee humanitarian assistance. They are also expected to meet senior members of the Taliban leadership. The Indian team is led by the Joint Secretary, Pakistan Afghanistan Iran (PAI) division of the Ministry of External Affairs, JP Singh. Last year, on the sidelines of the Moscow format of talks on Afghanistan in Delhi, JP Singh had meet Taliban leadership. The development comes even as New Delhi has been sending assistance to the Afghan people despite not recognising the Taliban regime. India doesn't recognise the Taliban regime but that hasn't stopped it from reaching out to Afghan people with wheat, vaccines—polio and Covid—and winter clothing. In the aftermath of the Taliban takeover in August last year, India had shut its mission in the country. In a statement, the Ministry of External Affairs said, "During the visit, the team will meet representatives of the international organisations involved in the distribution of the humanitarian assistance.” India has sent several shipments of humanitarian assistance consisting of 20,000 MTs of wheat, 13 tons of medicines, 500,000 doses of Covid vaccine and winter clothing to Afghanistan. These consignments were handed over to the India Gandhi Children Hospital, Kabul, and UN specialized agencies including WHO and WFP. India had also gifted one million doses of India-made COVAXIN to Iran to administer to Afghan refugees in Iran. Important to note that during their stay, the Indian team is “expected to visit various places where Indian programmes/projects are being implemented", the MEA release said. India has built the Afghan Parliament and the India-Afghanistan friendship dam in western Herat Province. Along with this, New Delhi has also taken up 116 high impact community development projects in 31 provinces of the country. 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.

First time since Taliban takeover, Indian team lands in Kabul to oversee humanitarian assistance

The Kashmir valley is on edge. Sine January, 16 people have lost their lives in targeted killings, there has also been a series of terror attacks on people. In the latest, a bank manager from Rajasthan was shot dead in Kulgam.

India: 16 targeted killings in Kashmir valley since January

The sudden surge in COVID-19 cases in the state of Maharashtra has left the administration worried. On Thursday, the state recorded 1,045 virus&nbsp;cases and active cases stood at 4,599. The state’s positivity rate stands at 4 per cent.&nbsp;

In fact, on June 1, the state had recorded 1,081 fresh COVID-19 cases, the highest daily rise in three months. While, a month ago, on May 1, the state had only 169 cases and 955 active cases.&nbsp;

In view of rising COVID-19 cases in the state, the Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray had called a meeting of the COVID-19 task force today to discuss possible reasons for the sudden surge and how the&nbsp;further spread can be averted. &nbsp;

Speaking at the state COVID-19 task force meeting amid a rise in the number of cases over the past few days, Thackeray said the government will keep a watch over the situation for 15 days. He has also appealed to people to wear masks in public places, vaccinate themselves and follow discipline if they do not want restrictions or lockdown again.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

He has also requested people especially aged between 12-18 years and senior citizens to get vaccinated and also take booster shots. In the meeting, the CM also directed officials to increase daily testing. Currently, around 25,000-26,000 COVID19 tests are conducted daily. &nbsp;

The capital city of Mumbai is showing worrying numbers especially with monsoon around the corner. On June 1, the city witnessed the highest single-day jump in 116 days after 739 people tested positive for the virus. On June 2, it recorded 704 cases with no deaths. &nbsp;

The Mumbai Civic Body (BMC) commissioner Iqbal Singh Chahal has already directed officials to intensify testing for COVID-19 on a war footing and ask the staff of jumbo field hospitals to be vigilant in view of the significant rise in cases over the past few weeks. &nbsp;

However, experts say there is nothing to panic and the rise in cases could be due to multiple reasons. Vaccination coverage has slowed down and is poor in the under-18 and booster dose segments. Experts believe if proper discipline is followed like wearing masks especially in public places, then cases can come down drastically. &nbsp;

The Maharashtra administration has also warned citizens that if proper disciplined is not followed then the wearing of masks will be made compulsory again across the state. &nbsp;

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The sudden surge in COVID-19 cases in the state of Maharashtra has left the administration worried. On Thursday, the state recorded 1,045 virus cases and active cases stood at 4,599.

The sudden surge in COVID-19 cases in the state of Maharashtra has left the administration worried. On Thursday, the state recorded 1,045 virus cases and active cases stood at 4,599. The state’s positivity rate stands at 4 per cent. In fact, on June 1, the state had recorded 1,081 fresh COVID-19 cases, the highest daily rise in three months. While, a month ago, on May 1, the state had only 169 cases and 955 active cases. In view of rising COVID-19 cases in the state, the Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray had called a meeting of the COVID-19 task force today to discuss possible reasons for the sudden surge and how the further spread can be averted. Speaking at the state COVID-19 task force meeting amid a rise in the number of cases over the past few days, Thackeray said the government will keep a watch over the situation for 15 days. He has also appealed to people to wear masks in public places, vaccinate themselves and follow discipline if they do not want restrictions or lockdown again. He has also requested people especially aged between 12-18 years and senior citizens to get vaccinated and also take booster shots. In the meeting, the CM also directed officials to increase daily testing. Currently, around 25,000-26,000 COVID19 tests are conducted daily. The capital city of Mumbai is showing worrying numbers especially with monsoon around the corner. On June 1, the city witnessed the highest single-day jump in 116 days after 739 people tested positive for the virus. On June 2, it recorded 704 cases with no deaths. The Mumbai Civic Body (BMC) commissioner Iqbal Singh Chahal has already directed officials to intensify testing for COVID-19 on a war footing and ask the staff of jumbo field hospitals to be vigilant in view of the significant rise in cases over the past few weeks. However, experts say there is nothing to panic and the rise in cases could be due to multiple reasons. Vaccination coverage has slowed down and is poor in the under-18 and booster dose segments. Experts believe if proper discipline is followed like wearing masks especially in public places, then cases can come down drastically. The Maharashtra administration has also warned citizens that if proper disciplined is not followed then the wearing of masks will be made compulsory again across the state. 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.

Maharashtra witnesses sudden surge in COVID-19 cases

Hardik Patel, a former Congress politician, is expected to join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Thursday. Patel tweeted ahead of his formal induction into the party that he is "going to start a new chapter from today" and that he "shall work as a tiny soldier under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership."

In a tweet in Hindi, Patel, Gujarat's Patidar quota warrior, said: "With the feelings of national interest, state interest, public interest and social interest, I am going to start a new chapter from today."

"I will work as a small soldier under the leadership of the successful Prime Minister Narendra Modi," he added.

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राष्ट्रहित, प्रदेशहित, जनहित एवं समाज हित की भावनाओं के साथ आज से नए अध्याय का प्रारंभ करने जा रहा हूँ। भारत के यशस्वी प्रधानमंत्री श्री नरेन्द्र भाई मोदी जी के नेतृत्व में चल रहे राष्ट्र सेवा के भगीरथ कार्य में छोटा सा सिपाही बनकर काम करूँगा।
— Hardik Patel (@HardikPatel_) <a href="https://twitter.com/HardikPatel_/status/1532189431754547200?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 2, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Hardik rose to prominence in politics in 2015, when he led the Patidar reservation agitation in Gujarat, developing a campaign in the run-up to the state Assembly elections in 2017.&nbsp;

Patel initially sought OBC recognition for the Patidar group.&nbsp;

Following that, it became a demand for reservations for the Economically Weaker Section (EWS).&nbsp;

During the Patidar quota agitation, the Anandiben Patel-led Gujarat government continued to slap cases on Hardik, accusing him of fomenting trouble.&nbsp;

Anandiben Patel, the state's then-chief minister, was caught off guard by his arrival on the political scene.&nbsp;

Anandiben Patel announced her retirement from the position in 2016. Patel joined the Congress Party in the presence of Rahul Gandhi ahead of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections.

In the year 2020, he was appointed as the working president of the Gujarat Pradesh Congress Committee. He eventually left the party in 2022 after accusing Congress leadership of ignoring him when making critical choices.&nbsp;

Patel resigned from the party on May 19 this year, claiming that Gujarat Congress leaders were more concerned with ensuring that the leaders who came from Delhi to Gujarat got "chicken sandwich" on schedule than with addressing real issues in the state. He further said that Gujarat Congress leaders "sitting in the AC chambers" tried to sabotage his political efforts.

Meanwhile, Gujarat Congress head Jagdish Thakor has alleged that Patel decided to leave the party because he was frightened of facing jail time for sedition charges. The entrance of Hardik into the BJP is crucial because the Assembly elections are scheduled for this year. 
&nbsp;

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Hardik Patel, a former Congress politician, is expected to join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Thursday. Patel tweeted ahead of his formal induction into the party that he is "going to start a new chapter from today" and that he "shall work as a tiny soldier under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership.

Hardik Patel, a former Congress politician, is expected to join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Thursday. Patel tweeted ahead of his formal induction into the party that he is "going to start a new chapter from today" and that he "shall work as a tiny soldier under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership." In a tweet in Hindi, Patel, Gujarat's Patidar quota warrior, said: "With the feelings of national interest, state interest, public interest and social interest, I am going to start a new chapter from today." "I will work as a small soldier under the leadership of the successful Prime Minister Narendra Modi," he added. राष्ट्रहित, प्रदेशहित, जनहित एवं समाज हित की भावनाओं के साथ आज से नए अध्याय का प्रारंभ करने जा रहा हूँ। भारत के यशस्वी प्रधानमंत्री श्री नरेन्द्र भाई मोदी जी के नेतृत्व में चल रहे राष्ट्र सेवा के भगीरथ कार्य में छोटा सा सिपाही बनकर काम करूँगा। — Hardik Patel (@HardikPatel_) June 2, 2022 × Hardik rose to prominence in politics in 2015, when he led the Patidar reservation agitation in Gujarat, developing a campaign in the run-up to the state Assembly elections in 2017. Patel initially sought OBC recognition for the Patidar group. Following that, it became a demand for reservations for the Economically Weaker Section (EWS). During the Patidar quota agitation, the Anandiben Patel-led Gujarat government continued to slap cases on Hardik, accusing him of fomenting trouble. Anandiben Patel, the state's then-chief minister, was caught off guard by his arrival on the political scene. Anandiben Patel announced her retirement from the position in 2016. Patel joined the Congress Party in the presence of Rahul Gandhi ahead of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. In the year 2020, he was appointed as the working president of the Gujarat Pradesh Congress Committee. He eventually left the party in 2022 after accusing Congress leadership of ignoring him when making critical choices. Patel resigned from the party on May 19 this year, claiming that Gujarat Congress leaders were more concerned with ensuring that the leaders who came from Delhi to Gujarat got "chicken sandwich" on schedule than with addressing real issues in the state. He further said that Gujarat Congress leaders "sitting in the AC chambers" tried to sabotage his political efforts. Meanwhile, Gujarat Congress head Jagdish Thakor has alleged that Patel decided to leave the party because he was frightened of facing jail time for sedition charges. The entrance of Hardik into the BJP is crucial because the Assembly elections are scheduled for this year. 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.

Will work as small soldier under PM Modi's leadership, says Hardik Patel ahead of joining BJP

More than 70 percent of river monitoring stations in India have alarming levels of heavy toxic metals like iron and nickel, a latest report said on Thursday.

The 'State of India's Environment -2022' report revealed that 40 percent of the river monitoring stations have high levels of total coliform and 15 percent have biochemical oxygen demand beyond permissible limits, which indicate poor wastewater treatment from industry, agriculture and domestic households.

The report, released ahead of World Environment Day to be celebrated on June 5, said that more than a third of India's coastline, spread across 6,907 km, witnessed soil erosion between 1990 and 2018 due to rise in sea level and anthropogenic activities.

India has almost 30 percent of its geographical area under degradation, triggered by various factors which include climate change.

The soil health remains deficient in several key macro and micro-nutrients that are key for sustainable agriculture, it said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-york-mass-shooting-suspect-is-indicted-on-a-domestic-terrorism-charge-484305" hreflang="en">New York mass shooting: Suspect is indicted on a domestic terrorism charge</a>

It warned that while the cost of cultivation has increased, the income from it has gown down.

The cost of cultivation has increased by almost 35 percent between 2012-13 and 2018-19, but the share of income from cultivation in an agricultural household has diminished from 48 percent in 2012-13 to 37 percent in 2018-19, it said.

"At the same time, half of all agricultural households are under debt. As per government data, on an average, at least 29 farmers and farm labourers commit suicide in the country daily," the report said.

Scientists said that forest cover in 244 out of 638 assessed districts across India's 27 states and five union territories has shrunk between 2019 and 2021.

By 2050, the entire forest cover might become a climate hotspot, it said.

The report, prepared by India's environmental think tank Centre for Science and Environment (CSE), made some startling revelations on the various environmental issues in India.

India witnessed an unprecedented heatwave this year, as in impact of climate change, which caused massive crop damage and deaths. &nbsp;

In 2022, India recorded its hottest March. This triggered an early onslaught of heatwaves.

As per the report, the country reported 280 heatwave days between March 11 and May 18, the highest in the past 10 years. This is almost double of what the country experienced in 2012, the second highest heatwave year in the past decade.

Climate triggers more internal displacements than conflicts in the world now and India is the fourth worst hit after China, the Philippines and Bangladesh.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/oil-slides-on-report-of-saudi-arabia-ready-to-pump-more-if-russian-output-sinks-484383" hreflang="en">Oil slides on report of Saudi Arabia ready to pump more if Russian output sink</a>

It said that more than 1.7 million Indians die due to diseases attributable to unhealthy diet and that 71 percent of the country's population cannot afford a healthy diet.

The report said that only five large states in India which are Telangana, Maharashtra, Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh, and two small states -Mizoram and Telangana- show good overall performance in Health Index that looks at key health indicators and existing infrastructure.

In the energy sector, the report said that one-third of all carbon emissions come from burning coal, making it the single largest contributor to climate change in the world. India has the world's second largest operational coal plants capacity, after China.

"By 2050, the world must reduce its GHG emissions from coal by 99 per cent to restrict the temperature rise to 1.5 degree C by 2100," it said.

India recycled 12 percent and burnt 20 percent of the 3.5 million tonnes of plastic waste it generated in 2019-20, the report said, adding that there is no information on the remaining 68 percent of plastic waste, which most likely ends up in dumpsites and landfills.

The report said that reducing air pollution to meet the World Health Organization's levels would add 2.2 years to global life expectancy and in India, the life expectancy will go up by 5.9 years if the country meets the WHO levels of PM2.5.

In the last 50 years since the Stockholm conference in 1972 started a global debate around environment, the world has seen a 38-fold increase in environmental laws but the condition of the planet continues to worsen, a latest report said on Thursday.

The 'State of India's Environment -2022' report released ahead of World Environment Day to be celebrated on June 5, revealed that India's performance on climate action slipped between 2019 and 2020.

Globally, the report said that annual CO2 emissions have reached 36.7 billion tonnes, which is more than double of what was emitted in 1972 and it will have an impact on the planet's health and biodiversity in the next 50 years, unless corrective measures are fast-tracked.

It warned that with eight years left to meet the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 2030, under the United Nations, India’s preparedness remains far from satisfactory.

The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, was adopted by all United Nations Member States in 2015, which provides a shared blueprint for peace and prosperity for people and the planet, now and into the future.

There are 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which are an urgent call for action by all countries - developed and developing - in a global partnership.

It said that India has identified 295 primary indicators, but it is monitoring only 115 of these.

Performance of all the states and union territories remains poor in the 13th SDG which is climate action.

"In essence, India is not even monitoring progress on 61 per cent of its indicators. For instance, there are 41 indicators identified under SDG 8, which deals with sustained and inclusive economic growth and productive employment. India monitors just nine of them. It is silent on crucial indicators such as the growth of registered micro, small and medium-sized enterprises," the report said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-will-break-into-pieces-ex-pm-khan-warns-of-civil-war-if-polls-not-announced-484372" hreflang="en">Pak could split into 3 parts &amp; also lose nuclear deterrent capabilities: Khan</a>

There are 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which are an urgent call for action by all countries - developed and developing - in a global partnership.

The report, prepared by India's environmental think tank Centre for Science and Environment (CSE), made some startling revelations on the various environmental issues in India.

It said that India has identified 295 primary indicators, but it is monitoring only 115 of these.

Performance of all the states and union territories remains poor in the 13th SDG which is climate action. 
"In essence, India is not even monitoring progress on 61 per cent of its indicators. For instance, there are 41 indicators identified under SDG 8, which deals with sustained and inclusive economic growth and productive employment. India monitors just nine of them. It is silent on crucial indicators such as the growth of registered micro, small and medium-sized enterprises," the report said.

India witnessed an unprecedented heatwave this year, as in impact of climate change, which caused massive crop damage and deaths. &nbsp;

In 2022, India recorded its hottest March. This triggered an early onslaught of heatwaves. The country reported 280 heatwave days between March 11 and May 18, the highest in the past 10 years. This is almost double of what the country experienced in 2012, the second highest heatwave year in the past decade.

According to the report, 74 percent of river monitoring stations in India have alarming levels of heavy toxic metals like iron and nickel.

40 percent of the stations have high levels of total coliform, and 15 percent have biochemical oxygen demand beyond permissible limits, which indicate poor wastewater treatment from industry, agriculture and domestic households.

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More than 70 percent of river monitoring stations in India have alarming levels of heavy toxic metals like iron and nickel, a latest report said on Thursday. The 'State of India's Environment -2022' report revealed that 40 percent of the river monitoring stations have high levels of total coliform and 15 percent have biochemical oxygen demand beyond permissible limits, which indicate poor wastewater treatment from industry, agriculture and domestic households.

More than 70 percent of river monitoring stations in India have alarming levels of heavy toxic metals like iron and nickel, a latest report said on Thursday. The 'State of India's Environment -2022' report revealed that 40 percent of the river monitoring stations have high levels of total coliform and 15 percent have biochemical oxygen demand beyond permissible limits, which indicate poor wastewater treatment from industry, agriculture and domestic households. The report, released ahead of World Environment Day to be celebrated on June 5, said that more than a third of India's coastline, spread across 6,907 km, witnessed soil erosion between 1990 and 2018 due to rise in sea level and anthropogenic activities. India has almost 30 percent of its geographical area under degradation, triggered by various factors which include climate change. The soil health remains deficient in several key macro and micro-nutrients that are key for sustainable agriculture, it said. Also read | New York mass shooting: Suspect is indicted on a domestic terrorism charge It warned that while the cost of cultivation has increased, the income from it has gown down. The cost of cultivation has increased by almost 35 percent between 2012-13 and 2018-19, but the share of income from cultivation in an agricultural household has diminished from 48 percent in 2012-13 to 37 percent in 2018-19, it said. "At the same time, half of all agricultural households are under debt. As per government data, on an average, at least 29 farmers and farm labourers commit suicide in the country daily," the report said. Scientists said that forest cover in 244 out of 638 assessed districts across India's 27 states and five union territories has shrunk between 2019 and 2021. By 2050, the entire forest cover might become a climate hotspot, it said. The report, prepared by India's environmental think tank Centre for Science and Environment (CSE), made some startling revelations on the various environmental issues in India. India witnessed an unprecedented heatwave this year, as in impact of climate change, which caused massive crop damage and deaths. In 2022, India recorded its hottest March. This triggered an early onslaught of heatwaves. As per the report, the country reported 280 heatwave days between March 11 and May 18, the highest in the past 10 years. This is almost double of what the country experienced in 2012, the second highest heatwave year in the past decade. Climate triggers more internal displacements than conflicts in the world now and India is the fourth worst hit after China, the Philippines and Bangladesh. Also read | Oil slides on report of Saudi Arabia ready to pump more if Russian output sink It said that more than 1.7 million Indians die due to diseases attributable to unhealthy diet and that 71 percent of the country's population cannot afford a healthy diet. The report said that only five large states in India which are Telangana, Maharashtra, Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh, and two small states -Mizoram and Telangana- show good overall performance in Health Index that looks at key health indicators and existing infrastructure. In the energy sector, the report said that one-third of all carbon emissions come from burning coal, making it the single largest contributor to climate change in the world. India has the world's second largest operational coal plants capacity, after China. "By 2050, the world must reduce its GHG emissions from coal by 99 per cent to restrict the temperature rise to 1.5 degree C by 2100," it said. India recycled 12 percent and burnt 20 percent of the 3.5 million tonnes of plastic waste it generated in 2019-20, the report said, adding that there is no information on the remaining 68 percent of plastic waste, which most likely ends up in dumpsites and landfills. The report said that reducing air pollution to meet the World Health Organization's levels would add 2.2 years to global life expectancy and in India, the life expectancy will go up by 5.9 years if the country meets the WHO levels of PM2.5. In the last 50 years since the Stockholm conference in 1972 started a global debate around environment, the world has seen a 38-fold increase in environmental laws but the condition of the planet continues to worsen, a latest report said on Thursday. The 'State of India's Environment -2022' report released ahead of World Environment Day to be celebrated on June 5, revealed that India's performance on climate action slipped between 2019 and 2020. Globally, the report said that annual CO2 emissions have reached 36.7 billion tonnes, which is more than double of what was emitted in 1972 and it will have an impact on the planet's health and biodiversity in the next 50 years, unless corrective measures are fast-tracked. It warned that with eight years left to meet the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 2030, under the United Nations, India’s preparedness remains far from satisfactory. The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, was adopted by all United Nations Member States in 2015, which provides a shared blueprint for peace and prosperity for people and the planet, now and into the future. There are 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which are an urgent call for action by all countries - developed and developing - in a global partnership. It said that India has identified 295 primary indicators, but it is monitoring only 115 of these. Performance of all the states and union territories remains poor in the 13th SDG which is climate action. "In essence, India is not even monitoring progress on 61 per cent of its indicators. For instance, there are 41 indicators identified under SDG 8, which deals with sustained and inclusive economic growth and productive employment. India monitors just nine of them. It is silent on crucial indicators such as the growth of registered micro, small and medium-sized enterprises," the report said. Also read | Pak could split into 3 parts & also lose nuclear deterrent capabilities: Khan There are 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which are an urgent call for action by all countries - developed and developing - in a global partnership. The report, prepared by India's environmental think tank Centre for Science and Environment (CSE), made some startling revelations on the various environmental issues in India. It said that India has identified 295 primary indicators, but it is monitoring only 115 of these. Performance of all the states and union territories remains poor in the 13th SDG which is climate action. "In essence, India is not even monitoring progress on 61 per cent of its indicators. For instance, there are 41 indicators identified under SDG 8, which deals with sustained and inclusive economic growth and productive employment. India monitors just nine of them. It is silent on crucial indicators such as the growth of registered micro, small and medium-sized enterprises," the report said. India witnessed an unprecedented heatwave this year, as in impact of climate change, which caused massive crop damage and deaths. In 2022, India recorded its hottest March. This triggered an early onslaught of heatwaves. The country reported 280 heatwave days between March 11 and May 18, the highest in the past 10 years. This is almost double of what the country experienced in 2012, the second highest heatwave year in the past decade. According to the report, 74 percent of river monitoring stations in India have alarming levels of heavy toxic metals like iron and nickel. 40 percent of the stations have high levels of total coliform, and 15 percent have biochemical oxygen demand beyond permissible limits, which indicate poor wastewater treatment from industry, agriculture and domestic households. 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.

India's performance on climate action slipped between 2019 and 2020: Report

16 civilians have been killed in targeted attacks in the Kashmir Valley since January. Small arms like pistols used in all attacks

Sixteen civilians have been killed in the Kashmir Valley Since January. The rise in target killings is a big challenge for the security forces. The use of small arms like pistols is the new modus operandi of terror groups.&nbsp;

Earlier today, at around 10:30 am (local time), a terrorist barged into the bank premises of the Ellaquai Dehati Bank branch at Areh Mohanpora in Kulgam district and shot dead the bank manager Identified as Vijay Kumar, 29.&nbsp;

Kumar belonged to the Rajasthan state of India. He was posted with the Ellaquai Dehati Bank at Areh Mohanpora in Kulgam district for the last 3 years.&nbsp;

Jammu and Kashmir Police released CCTV footage of the incident, in which terrorists can be seen entering the bank premises and shooting the bank manager from a point-blank range with a pistol.&nbsp;

"Terrorists fired upon a bank employee (manager) at Ellaqie Dehati Bank at Areh Mohanpora village in Kulgam district. He received grievous gunshot injuries in this terror incident. He is a resident of Hanumangarh, Rajasthan. Area cordoned off"' said Vijay Kumar, IG Kashmir.&nbsp;

The incident happened just two days after the killing of a Hindu schoolteacher in the same district of Kulgam. A schoolteacher was shot dead by terrorists in the Gopalpora area of South Kashmir’s Kulgam district on May 31.&nbsp;

The teacher was identified as Rajni Bala and was shot dead right outside the Government high school, Gopalpora. Rajni Bala was a migrant Hindu scheduled caste and a teacher by profession and was posted in Kulgam in 2017.&nbsp;

Rajni’s husband had dropped her on the main road that day and as she entered the lane, two terrorists shot her from a close range with a pistol. The locals had rushed to the spot and taken her to hospital, but she didn't make it.&nbsp;

The local news agencies have said that the terror outfit, The resistance Front 'TRF' has claimed the responsibility for the attack. The Political parties in the valley have condemned the attack on the Bank Manager.&nbsp;

"So very sorry to hear about the targeted killing of Vijay Kumar. Tweeting to condemn an attack and condole a death are becoming a mind-numbingly regular thing. It’s heart-breaking to see families destroyed like this," said Omar Abdullah, Former CM of Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

On May 25, Famous Kashmiri television, and social media actress Ambreen Bhat was killed by terrorists right outside her house. Her 10-year-old nephew had sustained bullet injuries as well. Ambreen was associated with TV for over 18 years, and she was the lone bread earner of the house. Her Father kept saying that Ambreen was his son during her funeral. The Jammu and Kashmir Police had said that three Lashkar terrorists were involved in the killing on Ambreen. She was shot at from a close range with a pistol.&nbsp;

On May 12, a Kashmiri Pandit, Rahul Bhat was shot dead by terrorists inside his Tehsil office. Rahul was an employee of the revenue department in Kashmir. He had been given a job under the PM package for the rehabilitation of Kashmiri Pandits in the Valley. Police said that Rahul was shot at by 02 terrorists using pistols for the crime.

The Government in a meeting yesterday decided that all the non-locals and minority community employees will be posted in secure locations in the Valley. However, the Kashmir Pandit community has been demanding that they should be shifted to the Jammu region till the condition in the valley becomes conducive.&nbsp;

16 civilians have been killed in targeted attacks in the Kashmir Valley since January. Small arms like pistols used in all attacks Sixteen civilians have been killed in the Kashmir Valley Since January.

16 civilians have been killed in targeted attacks in the Kashmir Valley since January. Small arms like pistols used in all attacks Sixteen civilians have been killed in the Kashmir Valley Since January. The rise in target killings is a big challenge for the security forces. The use of small arms like pistols is the new modus operandi of terror groups. Earlier today, at around 10:30 am (local time), a terrorist barged into the bank premises of the Ellaquai Dehati Bank branch at Areh Mohanpora in Kulgam district and shot dead the bank manager Identified as Vijay Kumar, 29. Kumar belonged to the Rajasthan state of India. He was posted with the Ellaquai Dehati Bank at Areh Mohanpora in Kulgam district for the last 3 years. Jammu and Kashmir Police released CCTV footage of the incident, in which terrorists can be seen entering the bank premises and shooting the bank manager from a point-blank range with a pistol. "Terrorists fired upon a bank employee (manager) at Ellaqie Dehati Bank at Areh Mohanpora village in Kulgam district. He received grievous gunshot injuries in this terror incident. He is a resident of Hanumangarh, Rajasthan. Area cordoned off"' said Vijay Kumar, IG Kashmir. The incident happened just two days after the killing of a Hindu schoolteacher in the same district of Kulgam. A schoolteacher was shot dead by terrorists in the Gopalpora area of South Kashmir’s Kulgam district on May 31. The teacher was identified as Rajni Bala and was shot dead right outside the Government high school, Gopalpora. Rajni Bala was a migrant Hindu scheduled caste and a teacher by profession and was posted in Kulgam in 2017. Rajni’s husband had dropped her on the main road that day and as she entered the lane, two terrorists shot her from a close range with a pistol. The locals had rushed to the spot and taken her to hospital, but she didn't make it. The local news agencies have said that the terror outfit, The resistance Front 'TRF' has claimed the responsibility for the attack. The Political parties in the valley have condemned the attack on the Bank Manager. "So very sorry to hear about the targeted killing of Vijay Kumar. Tweeting to condemn an attack and condole a death are becoming a mind-numbingly regular thing. It’s heart-breaking to see families destroyed like this," said Omar Abdullah, Former CM of Jammu and Kashmir. On May 25, Famous Kashmiri television, and social media actress Ambreen Bhat was killed by terrorists right outside her house. Her 10-year-old nephew had sustained bullet injuries as well. Ambreen was associated with TV for over 18 years, and she was the lone bread earner of the house. Her Father kept saying that Ambreen was his son during her funeral. The Jammu and Kashmir Police had said that three Lashkar terrorists were involved in the killing on Ambreen. She was shot at from a close range with a pistol. On May 12, a Kashmiri Pandit, Rahul Bhat was shot dead by terrorists inside his Tehsil office. Rahul was an employee of the revenue department in Kashmir. He had been given a job under the PM package for the rehabilitation of Kashmiri Pandits in the Valley. Police said that Rahul was shot at by 02 terrorists using pistols for the crime. The Government in a meeting yesterday decided that all the non-locals and minority community employees will be posted in secure locations in the Valley. However, the Kashmir Pandit community has been demanding that they should be shifted to the Jammu region till the condition in the valley becomes conducive.

India: 16 civilians killed in target attacks in Kashmir Valley since January

News outlets have posted a terrifying 71-second video of an attack on a bank manager in Kulgam, Jammu &amp; Kashmir. A man dressed in black and wearing a face mask gazing inside the bank on a couple of occasions and then appearing to depart is shown in the video, which was captured on a cell phone and recorded CCTV footage and played on a computer screen. He storms again into the bank near the conclusion, this time armed with a gun and a bag. He appears uncertain, almost walking away, but then turns around and fires.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | J&amp;K: Terrorist fires at bank manager at Ellaqie Dehati Bank at Areh Mohanpora in Kulgam district. 
 
The bank manager later succumbed to his injuries. 
 
(CCTV visuals) <a href="https://t.co/uIxVS29KVI">pic.twitter.com/uIxVS29KVI</a>
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J&amp;K | Security forces outside Ellaqie Dehati Bank at Areh Mohanpora in Kulgam district where bank manager was shot dead by terrorists. Search operation underway. 
 
(Visuals deferred by unspecified time) <a href="https://t.co/xC4sG1acnn">pic.twitter.com/xC4sG1acnn</a>
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The man killed in today's incident was an employee of the Ellaquai Dehati Bank in Kulgam, according to police. He was from the state of Rajasthan.

This is the second civilian attack in Jammu and Kashmir this week; a school teacher was shot dead in Kulgam on Monday.

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News outlets have posted a terrifying 71-second video of an attack on a bank manager in Kulgam, Jammu & Kashmir. A man dressed in black and wearing a face mask gazing inside the bank on a couple of occasions and then appearing to depart is shown in the video, which was captured on a cell phone and recorded CCTV footage and played on a computer screen.

News outlets have posted a terrifying 71-second video of an attack on a bank manager in Kulgam, Jammu & Kashmir. A man dressed in black and wearing a face mask gazing inside the bank on a couple of occasions and then appearing to depart is shown in the video, which was captured on a cell phone and recorded CCTV footage and played on a computer screen. He storms again into the bank near the conclusion, this time armed with a gun and a bag. He appears uncertain, almost walking away, but then turns around and fires. #WATCH | J&K: Terrorist fires at bank manager at Ellaqie Dehati Bank at Areh Mohanpora in Kulgam district. The bank manager later succumbed to his injuries. (CCTV visuals) pic.twitter.com/uIxVS29KVI — ANI (@ANI) June 2, 2022 × J&K | Security forces outside Ellaqie Dehati Bank at Areh Mohanpora in Kulgam district where bank manager was shot dead by terrorists. Search operation underway. (Visuals deferred by unspecified time) pic.twitter.com/xC4sG1acnn — ANI (@ANI) June 2, 2022 × The man killed in today's incident was an employee of the Ellaquai Dehati Bank in Kulgam, according to police. He was from the state of Rajasthan. This is the second civilian attack in Jammu and Kashmir this week; a school teacher was shot dead in Kulgam on Monday. 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.

Chilling footage shows man who shot dead bank manager in J&K's Kulgam

Congress President Sonia Gandhi tested COVID-19 positive, a day later of the summons issued by the Enforcement Directorate to her in the National Herald case.

Gandhi has to appear before the probe agency on June 8.

Congress leader Randeep Surjewala informed that Sonia Gandhi has developed some symptoms and has isolated herself and has been given requisite medical attention.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sonia-gandhi-appoints-navjot-singh-sidhu-as-chief-of-punjab-congress-398928">Sonia Gandhi appoints Navjot Singh Sidhu as Chief of Punjab Congress</a>

"Congress president Sonia Gandhi tests positive for COVID-19. She has developed mild fever and some symptoms and has isolated herself and has been given requisite medical attention. As of today, her date of appearance before ED on June 8 stands as it is," Surjewala told ANI.

Congress General Secretary KC Venugopal also tested COVID-19 positive. Rahul and Sonia Gandhi were issued a summons by the ED on Wednesday in connection with the National Herald case, which was closed by the investigating agency in 2015.

The federal agency`s move followed the questioning of senior Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge and Congress Treasurer Pawan Bansal in April this year in New Delhi in connection with its money laundering probe into the National Herald case.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Pak wants 'healthy trade' ties with India

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The agency then recorded the statements of both the Congress leaders then under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). The National Herald is published by Associated Journals Limited (AJL) and owned by Young Indian Pvt Limited (YIL). While Kharge is the CEO of YIL, Bansal is the Managing Director of AJL.

The ED is currently investigating the shareholding pattern and financial transactions as well as the role of party functionaries in the functioning of AJL and YIL.

The YIL promoters include Congress President Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/999-want-rahul-gandhi-as-congress-president-randeep-surjewala-350824">99.9% want Rahul Gandhi as Congress president: Randeep Surjewala</a>

BJP MP Subramanian Swamy had alleged that the Gandhis cheated and misappropriated funds, with YIL paying only Rs 50 lakh to obtain the right to recover Rs 90.25 crore that AJL owed to the Congress.

He had filed a complaint with a Delhi court earlier. Following the court taking cognisance of an Income Tax Department probe against YIL on Swamy`s petition, the ED also registered a fresh case under PMLA.

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Congress President Sonia Gandhi tested COVID-19 positive, a day later of the summons issued by the Enforcement Directorate to her in the National Herald case. Gandhi has to appear before the probe agency on June 8.

Congress President Sonia Gandhi tested COVID-19 positive, a day later of the summons issued by the Enforcement Directorate to her in the National Herald case. Gandhi has to appear before the probe agency on June 8. Congress leader Randeep Surjewala informed that Sonia Gandhi has developed some symptoms and has isolated herself and has been given requisite medical attention. Also read | Sonia Gandhi appoints Navjot Singh Sidhu as Chief of Punjab Congress "Congress president Sonia Gandhi tests positive for COVID-19. She has developed mild fever and some symptoms and has isolated herself and has been given requisite medical attention. As of today, her date of appearance before ED on June 8 stands as it is," Surjewala told ANI. Congress General Secretary KC Venugopal also tested COVID-19 positive. Rahul and Sonia Gandhi were issued a summons by the ED on Wednesday in connection with the National Herald case, which was closed by the investigating agency in 2015. The federal agency`s move followed the questioning of senior Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge and Congress Treasurer Pawan Bansal in April this year in New Delhi in connection with its money laundering probe into the National Herald case. Watch | Gravitas: Pak wants 'healthy trade' ties with India The agency then recorded the statements of both the Congress leaders then under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). The National Herald is published by Associated Journals Limited (AJL) and owned by Young Indian Pvt Limited (YIL). While Kharge is the CEO of YIL, Bansal is the Managing Director of AJL. The ED is currently investigating the shareholding pattern and financial transactions as well as the role of party functionaries in the functioning of AJL and YIL. The YIL promoters include Congress President Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi. Also read | 99.9% want Rahul Gandhi as Congress president: Randeep Surjewala BJP MP Subramanian Swamy had alleged that the Gandhis cheated and misappropriated funds, with YIL paying only Rs 50 lakh to obtain the right to recover Rs 90.25 crore that AJL owed to the Congress. He had filed a complaint with a Delhi court earlier. Following the court taking cognisance of an Income Tax Department probe against YIL on Swamy`s petition, the ED also registered a fresh case under PMLA. 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.

COVID-19: Sonia Gandhi tests positive, ahead of ED questioning in National Herald case

Believe it or not, Osama bin Laden is making headlines again. Well, he is not alive but his picture has caused some ripples in Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. In the incident, an officer of a state-run power distribution company, who seems to have been impressed by the al-Qaeda founder, has been suspended on Wednesday, media reports said. The official had placed the picture of bin Laden in his office and has reportedly described him as "world's best junior engineer", the officials said. &nbsp;

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Picture of Osama Bin Laden in the office of power department SDO in UP's Farrukhabad district. "World's best junior engineer" is the title bestowed to him. Sources claim the photo has now been removed after the matter surfaced in media. <a href="https://t.co/atae0kQbGF">pic.twitter.com/atae0kQbGF</a>
— Piyush Rai (@Benarasiyaa) <a href="https://twitter.com/Benarasiyaa/status/1531893304517767168?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 1, 2022</a></blockquote>
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The official, Ravindra Prakash Gautam, who works as sub-divisional officer (SDO) with the Dakshinanchal Vidyut Vitran Nigam Ltd (DVVNL), had placed a note below the picture. The note read "Respected Osama bin Laden, world's best junior engineer", as per the officials. &nbsp;

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When this picture with the message went viral on social media, senior district officials took cognizance of the matter and suspended Gautam. The picture has also been removed from the office. &nbsp;

"Managing Director of DVVNL has suspended SDO Ravindra Prakash Gautam following an inquiry into the incident," said Farrukhabad District Magistrate Sanjay Kumar Singh. Gautam defended his act and told PTI, "Anyone can be an idol. Osama was the best junior engineer in the world. The picture has been removed, but I have several copies of it."&nbsp; &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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Believe it or not, Osama bin Laden is making headlines again. Well, he is not alive but his picture has caused some ripples in Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. In the incident, an officer of a state-run power distribution company, who seems to have been impressed by the al-Qaeda founder, has been suspended on Wednesday, media reports said.

Believe it or not, Osama bin Laden is making headlines again. Well, he is not alive but his picture has caused some ripples in Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. In the incident, an officer of a state-run power distribution company, who seems to have been impressed by the al-Qaeda founder, has been suspended on Wednesday, media reports said. The official had placed the picture of bin Laden in his office and has reportedly described him as "world's best junior engineer", the officials said. Picture of Osama Bin Laden in the office of power department SDO in UP's Farrukhabad district. "World's best junior engineer" is the title bestowed to him. Sources claim the photo has now been removed after the matter surfaced in media. pic.twitter.com/atae0kQbGF — Piyush Rai (@Benarasiyaa) June 1, 2022 × The official, Ravindra Prakash Gautam, who works as sub-divisional officer (SDO) with the Dakshinanchal Vidyut Vitran Nigam Ltd (DVVNL), had placed a note below the picture. The note read "Respected Osama bin Laden, world's best junior engineer", as per the officials. WATCH WION LIVE HERE When this picture with the message went viral on social media, senior district officials took cognizance of the matter and suspended Gautam. The picture has also been removed from the office. "Managing Director of DVVNL has suspended SDO Ravindra Prakash Gautam following an inquiry into the incident," said Farrukhabad District Magistrate Sanjay Kumar Singh. Gautam defended his act and told PTI, "Anyone can be an idol. Osama was the best junior engineer in the world. The picture has been removed, but I have several copies of it." (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Indian officer idolises al-Qaeda founder Osama bin Laden as ‘world’s best junior engineer’, gets suspended

With the announcement of the final results of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Civil Services Examination (CSE), congratulatory messages begin to pour in. But alongside, a large number of fake accounts on social media like Twitter in the name of the toppers also crop up. These accounts are generally made within 24 hours of the announcement of the results. The scenario seems to have become common for the last few years. The much-awaited results this year were announced on Monday. In it, around 685 candidates passed the highly-competitive CSE 2021 with flying colours.&nbsp;

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Have spent 8 years on this platform. Can say with surety that creation of fake accounts on the name of UPSC toppers is an old normal. 😂
— Harshil Mehta (@MehHarshil) <a href="https://twitter.com/MehHarshil/status/1441978217640853507?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
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What is special about CSE 2021 is that the top three positions have been secured by women. Shruti Sharma from Delhi has bagged the top spot, Ankita Agarwal from West Bengal secured second spot and the third has been claimed by Gamini Singla of Punjab. It has happened for the first time in seven years. &nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/upsc-cse-2021-results-women-secure-top-three-ranks-685-qualify-civil-services-exam-483472" hreflang="en">UPSC CSE 2021 Results: Women secure top three ranks, 685 qualify civil services exam</a>

On this, IAS officer Somesh Upadhyay had posted on Twitter in 2020, “When real UPSC toppers will come to create accounts on social media, they will not find any username.” &nbsp;

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Soon after Shruti Sharma topped UPSC, People started creating fake accounts in her name. Beware! 👇🏽 <a href="https://t.co/X4vZ9jNRdv">https://t.co/X4vZ9jNRdv</a>
— Mohammed Zubair (@zoo_bear) <a href="https://twitter.com/zoo_bear/status/1531320600014114816?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 30, 2022</a></blockquote>
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On Tuesday, an account of a person named Shruti Sharma, which resembles this year’s topper, shared a post on Twitter from handle @ShrutiSharmaUP that “There are a lot of fake accounts being made on my name on Twitter and many times these fake accounts are able to gain a lot of followers #UPSC”.

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There are lot of fake accounts being made on my name on Twitter and many times these fake accounts are able to gain a lot of followers <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UPSC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UPSC</a>
— Shruti Sharma (@ShrutiSharmaUP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ShrutiSharmaUP/status/1531495785669414912?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 31, 2022</a></blockquote>
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(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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With the announcement of the final results of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Civil Services Examination (CSE), congratulatory messages begin to pour in.

With the announcement of the final results of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Civil Services Examination (CSE), congratulatory messages begin to pour in. But alongside, a large number of fake accounts on social media like Twitter in the name of the toppers also crop up. These accounts are generally made within 24 hours of the announcement of the results. The scenario seems to have become common for the last few years. The much-awaited results this year were announced on Monday. In it, around 685 candidates passed the highly-competitive CSE 2021 with flying colours. Have spent 8 years on this platform. Can say with surety that creation of fake accounts on the name of UPSC toppers is an old normal. 😂 — Harshil Mehta (@MehHarshil) September 26, 2021 × What is special about CSE 2021 is that the top three positions have been secured by women. Shruti Sharma from Delhi has bagged the top spot, Ankita Agarwal from West Bengal secured second spot and the third has been claimed by Gamini Singla of Punjab. It has happened for the first time in seven years. Also Read | UPSC CSE 2021 Results: Women secure top three ranks, 685 qualify civil services exam On this, IAS officer Somesh Upadhyay had posted on Twitter in 2020, “When real UPSC toppers will come to create accounts on social media, they will not find any username.” Soon after Shruti Sharma topped UPSC, People started creating fake accounts in her name. Beware! 👇🏽 https://t.co/X4vZ9jNRdv — Mohammed Zubair (@zoo_bear) May 30, 2022 × On Tuesday, an account of a person named Shruti Sharma, which resembles this year’s topper, shared a post on Twitter from handle @ShrutiSharmaUP that “There are a lot of fake accounts being made on my name on Twitter and many times these fake accounts are able to gain a lot of followers #UPSC”. There are lot of fake accounts being made on my name on Twitter and many times these fake accounts are able to gain a lot of followers #UPSC — Shruti Sharma (@ShrutiSharmaUP) May 31, 2022 × WATCH WION LIVE HERE (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

After UPSC results’ announcement, numerous fake accounts in toppers’ names surface on social media  

Israel Defence minister Benny Gantz who will be reaching India shortly will have a packed day on Thursday as he meets Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his counterpart Rajnath Singh. Minister Gantz is joined by Chief of Staff Maayan Israeli, Head of the Directorate for International Defense Cooperation Brig. Gen. (Res.) Yair Kulas, Director of the Policy and POL-MIL Bureau Dror Shalom, and military Secretary BG Yaki Dolf. During the visit both sides will be signing "an LOI marking 30 years of diplomatic and defence ties between Israel and India", his office said.

He will his day on Thursday by paying homage at National War Memorial in New Delhi, following which he will hold talks with Defence Minister Singh. He will also be given a Guard of honour. At around 5 pm.&nbsp;

The visit happens as both countries are celebrating 30 years of establishment of diplomatic ties. India and Israel established full diplomatic relations on 29th January 1992 and earlier this year a commemorative logo was launched. February saw iconic buildings in India and Israel--the gateway of India in Mumbai, the Teen Murti Haifa Chowk in Delhi and the Masada Fortress in Israel being lit up in Indian and Israeli colours.

India and Israel have increased defence engagement. As part of regular goodwill visits of Indian ships, three Indian naval ships from the Western Fleet made a port call in Haifa in May 2017. INS Tarangini, a naval training ship, made a port call in Haifa in September 2018. India participated in the multilateral Airforce exercise BlueFlag-2021 held in October 2021 in Israel. India’s Defense Research and Development Organization and Israel’s Directorate of Defense R&amp;D, signed Bilateral Innovation Agreement in November 2021.

Last year saw several high-level visits, which includes visits of External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar (October 2021), the then Indian Army Chief Gen. M.M. Naravane (Nov 2021) and Air Chief R.K.S.Bhadauria (August 2021).

PM Modi had visited Israel in 2017 which saw the relationship being upgraded to a strategic partnership. The then Prime Minister of Israel Benjamin Netanyahu made a return visit to India in 2018.&nbsp;

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Israel Defence minister Benny Gantz who will be reaching India shortly will have a packed day on Thursday as he meets Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his counterpart Rajnath Singh.

Israel Defence minister Benny Gantz who will be reaching India shortly will have a packed day on Thursday as he meets Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his counterpart Rajnath Singh. Minister Gantz is joined by Chief of Staff Maayan Israeli, Head of the Directorate for International Defense Cooperation Brig. Gen. (Res.) Yair Kulas, Director of the Policy and POL-MIL Bureau Dror Shalom, and military Secretary BG Yaki Dolf. During the visit both sides will be signing "an LOI marking 30 years of diplomatic and defence ties between Israel and India", his office said. He will his day on Thursday by paying homage at National War Memorial in New Delhi, following which he will hold talks with Defence Minister Singh. He will also be given a Guard of honour. At around 5 pm. The visit happens as both countries are celebrating 30 years of establishment of diplomatic ties. India and Israel established full diplomatic relations on 29th January 1992 and earlier this year a commemorative logo was launched. February saw iconic buildings in India and Israel--the gateway of India in Mumbai, the Teen Murti Haifa Chowk in Delhi and the Masada Fortress in Israel being lit up in Indian and Israeli colours. India and Israel have increased defence engagement. As part of regular goodwill visits of Indian ships, three Indian naval ships from the Western Fleet made a port call in Haifa in May 2017. INS Tarangini, a naval training ship, made a port call in Haifa in September 2018. India participated in the multilateral Airforce exercise BlueFlag-2021 held in October 2021 in Israel. India’s Defense Research and Development Organization and Israel’s Directorate of Defense R&D, signed Bilateral Innovation Agreement in November 2021. Last year saw several high-level visits, which includes visits of External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar (October 2021), the then Indian Army Chief Gen. M.M. Naravane (Nov 2021) and Air Chief R.K.S.Bhadauria (August 2021). PM Modi had visited Israel in 2017 which saw the relationship being upgraded to a strategic partnership. The then Prime Minister of Israel Benjamin Netanyahu made a return visit to India in 2018. 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.

Israeli Defence Minister Benny Gantz to meet PM Modi and Rajnath Singh on Thursday

It has been an extraordinary time for students of class 12 in India who have been reeling under anxiety and stress with the unconventional online mode of education. It's time now for the students to dive into the fierce competition of getting admission in the university of their choice for higher studies.

CUET: Indian students set for entrance test

In a bid to boost its geo-economic strategy, Pakistan is looking for regional partners to forge partnerships which includes its neighbor India. The newly inducted Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said that Islamabad is looking for connectivity-based partners.

'Trade mutually benefit for both nations,' Pakistan seeks trade ties with India

The Mumbai city recorded 505 new covid - 19 cases on Tuesday, showing a five-fold increase in cases in the past one month, increasing all India tally to 2745 new cases. On 1 May, 92 covid cases were recorded in the city.

The test positivity rate in the city has jumped to six per cent, the civic body Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), said today. It has asked officials to immediately increase testing "on war footing".

Testing labs have also been asked to be proactive and fully staffed." Daily new cases have tremendously increased in Mumbai, with monsoon around the corner, we will now see a rapid rise in symptomatic cases," it warned.

Iqbal Singh Chahal, BMC commissioner said that the jumbo facility at Malad will be put to use on priority for covid related hospitalisations.

The BMC has further instructed to ramp us the vaccination drive for teenagers and has also placed emphasis on booster dose delivery. It has asked both public and private hospitals to be on alert and increase bed capacity in case hospitalisations increase.

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Mumbai 739 covid cases today. <a href="https://t.co/VfXQrOqA2F">pic.twitter.com/VfXQrOqA2F</a>
— Manoj Gadnis (@MGadnis) <a href="https://twitter.com/MGadnis/status/1532003791578333184?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 1, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Maharashtra Health Minister Rajesh Tope said there was no need to panic, but advised to follow covid related precautions and SOPs.

“Out of 36 districts in Maharashtra, only Mumbai and Pune are seeing a rise in the number of cases, but nothing to worry as such since the rate of hospitalisation is low,” he added.

Tope said, “The necessary arrangements are in place and there is no harm in keeping everything ready. The health department is monitoring the situation.”

The Maharashtra government had lifted all Covid restrictions, including the mask mandate, on 2 April, when the state celebrated ‘Gudi Padwa’.

[ With inputs from agencies] 
&nbsp;

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The Mumbai city recorded 505 new covid - 19 cases on Tuesday, showing a five-fold increase in cases in the past one month, increasing all India tally to 2745 new cases.

The Mumbai city recorded 505 new covid - 19 cases on Tuesday, showing a five-fold increase in cases in the past one month, increasing all India tally to 2745 new cases. On 1 May, 92 covid cases were recorded in the city. The test positivity rate in the city has jumped to six per cent, the civic body Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), said today. It has asked officials to immediately increase testing "on war footing". Testing labs have also been asked to be proactive and fully staffed." Daily new cases have tremendously increased in Mumbai, with monsoon around the corner, we will now see a rapid rise in symptomatic cases," it warned. Iqbal Singh Chahal, BMC commissioner said that the jumbo facility at Malad will be put to use on priority for covid related hospitalisations. The BMC has further instructed to ramp us the vaccination drive for teenagers and has also placed emphasis on booster dose delivery. It has asked both public and private hospitals to be on alert and increase bed capacity in case hospitalisations increase. Mumbai 739 covid cases today. pic.twitter.com/VfXQrOqA2F — Manoj Gadnis (@MGadnis) June 1, 2022 × Maharashtra Health Minister Rajesh Tope said there was no need to panic, but advised to follow covid related precautions and SOPs. “Out of 36 districts in Maharashtra, only Mumbai and Pune are seeing a rise in the number of cases, but nothing to worry as such since the rate of hospitalisation is low,” he added. Tope said, “The necessary arrangements are in place and there is no harm in keeping everything ready. The health department is monitoring the situation.” The Maharashtra government had lifted all Covid restrictions, including the mask mandate, on 2 April, when the state celebrated ‘Gudi Padwa’. [ 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.

Mumbai sees five-fold increase in covid cases

A 24-year-old transwoman Mayasri saw it as huge recognition and a moment of pride for her LGBTQ community when she addressed the audience as a panellist at the recently concluded Bharat Drone Mahotsav, held in New Delhi. The transwoman B.Sc Computer Science Graduate hailing from Tamil Nadu took part in the event as India's first trans woman drone pilot and shared the stage in a panel discussion with eminent CEOs, and researchers from the aerospace sector. Mayasri doesn't stop with flying various types of multi-rotor drones(used for mapping, surveillance, agro-spraying, seed dispersal etc), she is also a qualified training instructor.&nbsp;

Despite having completed her B.Sc Computer Science degree with a distinction, she struggled to find work as a trans woman and was a victim of social stigma. A major turning point in her life was an opportunity to pursue a Drone Piloting course, certified by India's Directorate General of Civil Aviation. Mayasri and fourteen other members from the LGBTQ community completed the course at Chennai's Center for Aerospace Research, Anna University and were certified as Pilot and trainers under the Remote Pilot Training Organisation (RPTO).&nbsp;

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24-yo Mayasri is India’s first Trans woman drone pilot (150kg drones used for mapping, Agri etc) 
 
A BSc comp Sci grad, she was disowned by fam. Today she lives a life of dignity &amp; trains cops, others in flying 
She’s mentored by <a href="https://twitter.com/IAF_MCC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IAF_MCC</a> Retd Officer <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/chennai?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#chennai</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/tamilnadu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#tamilnadu</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/india?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#india</a> <a href="https://t.co/5waLObSzp3">pic.twitter.com/5waLObSzp3</a>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1531627464165761024?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 31, 2022</a></blockquote>
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"The National Drone Festival in Delhi was the biggest stage that I was stepping onto in my life and I was overwhelmed by emotions, as I was in a panel with Doctorates, CEOs and researchers. Thanks to Wing Commander Srikanth, people like me have come a long way - from being disowned by family and remaining unemployed, to living a life of dignity as a drone pilot and trainer" Mayasri told WION. With immense pride, she adds that her students include Police personnel, members of the Agricultural industry and persons from different walks of life.&nbsp;

Elaborating on how he enrolled LGBTQ community members into the course, Wing Cdr KR Srikanth(Retd) said that he was keen on giving back to all sections of society(not only men and women) and wanted to ensure employability for even the marginalized. "Indian Oil Corporation had granted their CSR funds to pay for the training of the fifteen trans persons. the training module included theory, simulated flying and real-world flying and testing of their skills. Daksha Unmanned Systems, CEO, Ramanathan has employed six trans persons as pilots and trainers, whereas other drone companies will be employing more of them soon" he told WION.&nbsp;

Open to those aged between 18 and 65, the RTPO course allows participants to pilot drones(multi-rotor) that weigh less than 25kg (small category) or drones that weigh between 25and 250kg(medium category). With drones being used in various sectors and their applications set to expand, licensed drone pilots and trainers are a much sought-after resource.&nbsp;

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A 24-year-old transwoman Mayasri saw it as huge recognition and a moment of pride for her LGBTQ community when she addressed the audience as a panellist at the recently concluded Bharat Drone Mahotsav, held in New Delhi.

A 24-year-old transwoman Mayasri saw it as huge recognition and a moment of pride for her LGBTQ community when she addressed the audience as a panellist at the recently concluded Bharat Drone Mahotsav, held in New Delhi. The transwoman B.Sc Computer Science Graduate hailing from Tamil Nadu took part in the event as India's first trans woman drone pilot and shared the stage in a panel discussion with eminent CEOs, and researchers from the aerospace sector. Mayasri doesn't stop with flying various types of multi-rotor drones(used for mapping, surveillance, agro-spraying, seed dispersal etc), she is also a qualified training instructor. Despite having completed her B.Sc Computer Science degree with a distinction, she struggled to find work as a trans woman and was a victim of social stigma. A major turning point in her life was an opportunity to pursue a Drone Piloting course, certified by India's Directorate General of Civil Aviation. Mayasri and fourteen other members from the LGBTQ community completed the course at Chennai's Center for Aerospace Research, Anna University and were certified as Pilot and trainers under the Remote Pilot Training Organisation (RPTO). 24-yo Mayasri is India’s first Trans woman drone pilot (150kg drones used for mapping, Agri etc) A BSc comp Sci grad, she was disowned by fam. Today she lives a life of dignity & trains cops, others in flying She’s mentored by @IAF_MCC Retd Officer #chennai #tamilnadu #india pic.twitter.com/5waLObSzp3 — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) May 31, 2022 × "The National Drone Festival in Delhi was the biggest stage that I was stepping onto in my life and I was overwhelmed by emotions, as I was in a panel with Doctorates, CEOs and researchers. Thanks to Wing Commander Srikanth, people like me have come a long way - from being disowned by family and remaining unemployed, to living a life of dignity as a drone pilot and trainer" Mayasri told WION. With immense pride, she adds that her students include Police personnel, members of the Agricultural industry and persons from different walks of life. Elaborating on how he enrolled LGBTQ community members into the course, Wing Cdr KR Srikanth(Retd) said that he was keen on giving back to all sections of society(not only men and women) and wanted to ensure employability for even the marginalized. "Indian Oil Corporation had granted their CSR funds to pay for the training of the fifteen trans persons. the training module included theory, simulated flying and real-world flying and testing of their skills. Daksha Unmanned Systems, CEO, Ramanathan has employed six trans persons as pilots and trainers, whereas other drone companies will be employing more of them soon" he told WION. Open to those aged between 18 and 65, the RTPO course allows participants to pilot drones(multi-rotor) that weigh less than 25kg (small category) or drones that weigh between 25and 250kg(medium category). With drones being used in various sectors and their applications set to expand, licensed drone pilots and trainers are a much sought-after resource. 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.

Ex-IAF Officer gives wings to transgenders and trains them to be drone pilots, instructors

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