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<p>Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Wednesday (April 13) responded to US Secretary of State Antony Blinken's "rise in human rights abuses" in India remarks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the joint presser after the 2+2 dialogue of top US and Indian ministers on Monday, Blinken had said the United States is monitoring some recent "concerning developments" in India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He especially called out the so-called rise in "human rights abuses" and alleged that such incidents are carried out by government, police and prison officials. But he didn't give any evidence to support his claims.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-invited-by-germany-for-g7-summit-in-june-470657">India invited by Germany for G7 summit in June</a></strong></p>

<p>At that time, Jaishankar didn't respond but on Wednesday, during a press brief, he said that India also takes a view on other people's human rights situation, including that of the United States. He added that India constantly raises such matters concerning the Indian community.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Jaishankar said, "Look, people are entitled to have views about us. But we are also equally entitled to have views about their views and about the interests, and the lobbies and the vote banks which drive that. So, whenever there is a discussion, I can tell you that we will not be reticent about speaking out." &nbsp;</p>

<p>"I would tell you that we also take our views on other people's human rights situation, including that of the United States. So, we take up a human rights issues when they arise in this country, especially when they pertain to our community. And in fact, we had a case yesterday...that's really where we stand on that," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/whatsapp-gets-approval-to-hike-users-to-100-mn-for-payments-service-in-india-says-report-470816">WhatsApp payment service gets nod for 100 mn users in India: Report</a></strong></p>

<p>Jaishankar's reaction came a day after two Sikh men were attacked in the New York borough of Queens on Tuesday. A few days ago, reports had emerged that another Sikh man was assaulted in the same neighbourhood.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Data states that more than 500,000 Sikhs are estimated to be living in the US as the community makes up the world's fifth-largest religious community.&nbsp;</p>

<p>If we talk about the Indian community as a whole, there is a rise in incidents of hate crimes against the Indian community in the US.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per NY State Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar, the first Punjabi American ever elected to the New York State Office, the incidents have increased by "200% in recent years".&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | Gravitas: Human Rights: Time for America to look within?</strong></p>

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Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Wednesday (April 13) responded to US Secretary of State Antony Blinken's "rise in human rights abuses" in India remarks.

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Wednesday (April 13) responded to US Secretary of State Antony Blinken's "rise in human rights abuses" in India remarks. During the joint presser after the 2+2 dialogue of top US and Indian ministers on Monday, Blinken had said the United States is monitoring some recent "concerning developments" in India. He especially called out the so-called rise in "human rights abuses" and alleged that such incidents are carried out by government, police and prison officials. But he didn't give any evidence to support his claims. ALSO READ | India invited by Germany for G7 summit in June At that time, Jaishankar didn't respond but on Wednesday, during a press brief, he said that India also takes a view on other people's human rights situation, including that of the United States. He added that India constantly raises such matters concerning the Indian community. Jaishankar said, "Look, people are entitled to have views about us. But we are also equally entitled to have views about their views and about the interests, and the lobbies and the vote banks which drive that. So, whenever there is a discussion, I can tell you that we will not be reticent about speaking out." "I would tell you that we also take our views on other people's human rights situation, including that of the United States. So, we take up a human rights issues when they arise in this country, especially when they pertain to our community. And in fact, we had a case yesterday...that's really where we stand on that," he added. ALSO READ | WhatsApp payment service gets nod for 100 mn users in India: Report Jaishankar's reaction came a day after two Sikh men were attacked in the New York borough of Queens on Tuesday. A few days ago, reports had emerged that another Sikh man was assaulted in the same neighbourhood. Data states that more than 500,000 Sikhs are estimated to be living in the US as the community makes up the world's fifth-largest religious community. If we talk about the Indian community as a whole, there is a rise in incidents of hate crimes against the Indian community in the US. As per NY State Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar, the first Punjabi American ever elected to the New York State Office, the incidents have increased by "200% in recent years". WATCH | Gravitas: Human Rights: Time for America to look within? ×

'We look at US human rights too': Jaishankar refers to recent attacks on Indian community

<p>The&nbsp;Chair of the European Parliament's Committee on International Trade&nbsp;Bernd Lange, who was on a visit to Delhi had hoped for the early conclusion of a free trade agreement between India and the EU. Speaking to WION's Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Member of the European Parliament&nbsp;Lange said, "you in India have elections in 2024, we have European election in 2024 so it will be great to have an agreement before that election campaign will start. So mid or end next year, as I said political will there".</p>

<p>This is the first such major visit of the European Parliament delegation to India since the Russian invasion of Ukraine on 24th&nbsp;February. A 7-member delegation of the European parliament's international trade committee, led by MEP Lange was in Delhi during which they met Finance Minister Sitharaman, Trade minister Goyal, NITI Aayog chief Rajiv Kumar and top ministry of external affairs officials including Secretary (West) Sanjay Verma, Sandeep Chakraborty, Joint Secretary (Europe West) and Secretary (Economic Relations) Dammu Ravi.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amidst-row-surrounding-uk-fm-rishi-sunak-wife-akshata-indias-infosys-exits-russia-470800" hreflang="en">Amidst row surrounding UK FM Rishi Sunak &amp; wife Akshata, India’s Infosys exits Russia</a></strong></p>

<p>Asked about European dependency on Russian energy, he explained,"&nbsp;want to be independent of fossil fuel supply from Russia in a reasonable time frame". Without taking China's name he said,"&nbsp;Now we are faced with the situation globally that lot of countries are using trade as a weapon."</p>

<p>WION: What brings you here to Delhi?</p>

<p>Bernd Lange: The international trade committee in the European Parliament is an important committee on scrutiny of any negotiation on the trade agreement and at the end of the day we have to say yes or no, or change a trade agreement. It is wise to have a fact-finding mission at the beginning of trade negotiations.</p>

<p>WION: What was your key focus during the various meetings?</p>

<p>Bernd Lange: The situation now is different than we had, in our last attempt to have a trade agreement 10 years ago. Now we are faced with the situation globally that lot of countries are using trade as a weapon. We are faced with a situation in which a lot of countries are using trade in a management way, some protective measures, specifically regarding pandemics. So, I guess it's time to rethink the relations between India and the EU as the 2 biggest democratic entities worldwide and this is also one result of my meetings here in Delhi. There is an open mind to restart negotiation in a different way between India and the EU.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-invited-by-germany-for-g7-summit-in-june-470657" hreflang="en">India invited by Germany for G7 summit in June</a></strong></p>

<p>WION: How hopeful you are about negotiations on India-EU FTA?</p>

<p>Bernd Lange: We have no red lines in our minds. If it's clear, negotiations will be given and taken. We have to find compromises on the question of services in Europe or questions on tariffs for European cars coming to India. A lot of items where we have to negotiate, if there is a will on both sides, then it can happen very fast. You in India have elections in 2024, we have a European election in 2024 so it will be great to have an agreement before the election campaigns start. So mid or end next year, as I said political will there, might be realistic.</p>

<p>WION: So you hopeful, that by mid of next year, FTA can be concluded?</p>

<p>Bernd Lange: Can be concluded, depends on negotiation rounds, willing to find a compromise, of course, we are not starting with zero. There are experiences with other trade agreements, India concluded just with Australia, we are negotiating with Mexico, Chile, New Zealand, and Australia. So, there are some standards, it's a question of which kind of speed we will take.</p>

<p>WION: The Russian invasion of Ukraine, did you discuss with the Indian side here and what exactly you told them?</p>

<p>Bernd Lange: The European position is very clear, the Russian aggression, invasion of Ukraine is an illegal movement. After Russian troops raped, it is all clear that Russian soldiers were part of war crimes against civilians in Ukraine therefore we want to stop the war immediately, we are using sanctions against Russia to push them for stopping the war. Worldwide we have different views on this, our position is quite clear and evident, this is an unacceptable move from the Russian leader and we expect democratic thinking people in a coalition against this war. Nevertheless, I can understand different views of course, I can understand a lot of wars are also happening on the social media.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;European leaders flock to Ukraine after US President Joe Biden calls Russian invasion a genocide</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/european-leaders-flock-to-ukraine-after-us-president-joe-biden-calls-russian-invasion-a-genocide-470877/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>WION: Do you think trade with Russia will be difficult, not only for a European investor but also for investors anywhere in the world, including India?</p>

<p>Bernd Lange: The Russian aggression against Ukraine will indeed&nbsp;have&nbsp;consequences for the world trade organizations. Just a few hours ago the WTO published a study that they expect the world trade will decrease, maybe up to 50 per cent because of this war. We may also see a change in investment. Lots of change we have to face.</p>

<p>WION: Energy linkages between Europe to Russia continue, how does Europe plan to decrease it?</p>

<p>Bernd Lange: I guess regardless of this war, there was a clear perspective from the EU to be independent of fossil fuels. We want to transform into a climate-neutral industrial society in 2050, so there were a lot of attempts to change the energy supply already and we have sped up the process for that. We will be independent of fossil fuel supplies specifically from Russia in a reasonable time frame, and I guess, a lot of possibility of cooperation. I know, the perspective of renewable energy in India and it will produce green hydrogen. We have a demand for green hydrogen. Prospective of creating, really the possibility of establishing a different kind of renewable and also have new trade relations based on green energy is a prospective for Bilateral Relations and also globally. This war, this transformation will change the global energy supply totally.</p>


The Chair of the European Parliament's Committee on International Trade Bernd Lange, who was on a visit to Delhi had hoped for the early conclusion of a free trade agreement between India and the EU.

The Chair of the European Parliament's Committee on International Trade Bernd Lange, who was on a visit to Delhi had hoped for the early conclusion of a free trade agreement between India and the EU. Speaking to WION's Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Member of the European Parliament Lange said, "you in India have elections in 2024, we have European election in 2024 so it will be great to have an agreement before that election campaign will start. So mid or end next year, as I said political will there". This is the first such major visit of the European Parliament delegation to India since the Russian invasion of Ukraine on 24th February. A 7-member delegation of the European parliament's international trade committee, led by MEP Lange was in Delhi during which they met Finance Minister Sitharaman, Trade minister Goyal, NITI Aayog chief Rajiv Kumar and top ministry of external affairs officials including Secretary (West) Sanjay Verma, Sandeep Chakraborty, Joint Secretary (Europe West) and Secretary (Economic Relations) Dammu Ravi. Also read | Amidst row surrounding UK FM Rishi Sunak & wife Akshata, India’s Infosys exits Russia Asked about European dependency on Russian energy, he explained," want to be independent of fossil fuel supply from Russia in a reasonable time frame". Without taking China's name he said," Now we are faced with the situation globally that lot of countries are using trade as a weapon." WION: What brings you here to Delhi? Bernd Lange: The international trade committee in the European Parliament is an important committee on scrutiny of any negotiation on the trade agreement and at the end of the day we have to say yes or no, or change a trade agreement. It is wise to have a fact-finding mission at the beginning of trade negotiations. WION: What was your key focus during the various meetings? Bernd Lange: The situation now is different than we had, in our last attempt to have a trade agreement 10 years ago. Now we are faced with the situation globally that lot of countries are using trade as a weapon. We are faced with a situation in which a lot of countries are using trade in a management way, some protective measures, specifically regarding pandemics. So, I guess it's time to rethink the relations between India and the EU as the 2 biggest democratic entities worldwide and this is also one result of my meetings here in Delhi. There is an open mind to restart negotiation in a different way between India and the EU. Also read | India invited by Germany for G7 summit in June WION: How hopeful you are about negotiations on India-EU FTA? Bernd Lange: We have no red lines in our minds. If it's clear, negotiations will be given and taken. We have to find compromises on the question of services in Europe or questions on tariffs for European cars coming to India. A lot of items where we have to negotiate, if there is a will on both sides, then it can happen very fast. You in India have elections in 2024, we have a European election in 2024 so it will be great to have an agreement before the election campaigns start. So mid or end next year, as I said political will there, might be realistic. WION: So you hopeful, that by mid of next year, FTA can be concluded? Bernd Lange: Can be concluded, depends on negotiation rounds, willing to find a compromise, of course, we are not starting with zero. There are experiences with other trade agreements, India concluded just with Australia, we are negotiating with Mexico, Chile, New Zealand, and Australia. So, there are some standards, it's a question of which kind of speed we will take. WION: The Russian invasion of Ukraine, did you discuss with the Indian side here and what exactly you told them? Bernd Lange: The European position is very clear, the Russian aggression, invasion of Ukraine is an illegal movement. After Russian troops raped, it is all clear that Russian soldiers were part of war crimes against civilians in Ukraine therefore we want to stop the war immediately, we are using sanctions against Russia to push them for stopping the war. Worldwide we have different views on this, our position is quite clear and evident, this is an unacceptable move from the Russian leader and we expect democratic thinking people in a coalition against this war. Nevertheless, I can understand different views of course, I can understand a lot of wars are also happening on the social media. Watch | European leaders flock to Ukraine after US President Joe Biden calls Russian invasion a genocide WION: Do you think trade with Russia will be difficult, not only for a European investor but also for investors anywhere in the world, including India? Bernd Lange: The Russian aggression against Ukraine will indeed have consequences for the world trade organizations. Just a few hours ago the WTO published a study that they expect the world trade will decrease, maybe up to 50 per cent because of this war. We may also see a change in investment. Lots of change we have to face. WION: Energy linkages between Europe to Russia continue, how does Europe plan to decrease it? Bernd Lange: I guess regardless of this war, there was a clear perspective from the EU to be independent of fossil fuels. We want to transform into a climate-neutral industrial society in 2050, so there were a lot of attempts to change the energy supply already and we have sped up the process for that. We will be independent of fossil fuel supplies specifically from Russia in a reasonable time frame, and I guess, a lot of possibility of cooperation. I know, the perspective of renewable energy in India and it will produce green hydrogen. We have a demand for green hydrogen. Prospective of creating, really the possibility of establishing a different kind of renewable and also have new trade relations based on green energy is a prospective for Bilateral Relations and also globally. This war, this transformation will change the global energy supply totally.

Chair of EU Parliament's trade panel hopes for early FTA with India

<p>WhatsApp seems to have got regulatory approval to increase users by more than double for its payments service to 100 million in India, a Reuters report said citing sources on Wednesday. &nbsp;</p>

<p>On Wednesday, the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) seems to have told the Meta Platforms Inc's company that it can hike the users to 100 million, the sources said. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Presently, there are 40 million users. In a statement to Reuters, the NPCI has confirmed the development. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/600-year-old-hindu-deity-idols-worth-millions-seized-in-indias-puducherry-470752" hreflang="en">600-year-old Hindu deity idols worth millions seized in India’s Puducherry</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>This approval from the NPCI is sure to come as a relief to the company, which has more than 500 million users in India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In 2020, the NPCI had given approval to WhatsApp for launching the payments service. The company has made concerted efforts to comply with Indian regulations. These include data storage norms requiring all payments-related data to be stored locally. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;WION Exclusive: Fourth consecutive G7 invite for India since 2019</strong></p>

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<p>The firm had started with 20 million users. In November last year, the limit was raised to 40 million. &nbsp;</p>

<p>In India's digital payment market, Paytm, Walmart’s PhonePe and Alphabet Inc's Google Pay are other big players. &nbsp;</p>

<p>India has witnessed a huge rise in the online transactions, e-wallet and lending services in the recent years. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


WhatsApp seems to have got regulatory approval to increase users by more than double for its payments service to 100 million in India, a Reuters report said citing sources on Wednesday.

WhatsApp seems to have got regulatory approval to increase users by more than double for its payments service to 100 million in India, a Reuters report said citing sources on Wednesday. On Wednesday, the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) seems to have told the Meta Platforms Inc's company that it can hike the users to 100 million, the sources said. Presently, there are 40 million users. In a statement to Reuters, the NPCI has confirmed the development. Also Read: 600-year-old Hindu deity idols worth millions seized in India’s Puducherry This approval from the NPCI is sure to come as a relief to the company, which has more than 500 million users in India. In 2020, the NPCI had given approval to WhatsApp for launching the payments service. The company has made concerted efforts to comply with Indian regulations. These include data storage norms requiring all payments-related data to be stored locally. Watch: WION Exclusive: Fourth consecutive G7 invite for India since 2019 × The firm had started with 20 million users. In November last year, the limit was raised to 40 million. In India's digital payment market, Paytm, Walmart’s PhonePe and Alphabet Inc's Google Pay are other big players. India has witnessed a huge rise in the online transactions, e-wallet and lending services in the recent years. (With inputs from agencies)

WhatsApp payment service gets nod for 100 mn users in India: Report

<p>Germany has informally intimated New Delhi its intent to invite India for the G7 summit.</p>

<p>A formal invite is expected soon from Berlin to India. The summit is due to take place from June 26-28&nbsp;at Schloss Elmau in the Bavarian Alps. Germany is the chair of the grouping for this year and holds the meeting amid the Russian invasion of Ukraine.</p>

<p>It is the fourth time India has been consecutively invited to the G7 summit since 2019. &nbsp;France in 2019 had invited India for the G7 ‘Biarritz Summit’ as “a goodwill partner”.</p>

<p>In 2020, President Donald Trump had invited PM Modi to the G7 outreach summit at Camp David. The summit was to take place in June 2020 however due to the COVID-19&nbsp;crisis it could not take place.</p>

<p>Last year the UK had invited India for the G7 summit, but PM Modi could not travel due to the second COVID-19 wave in the&nbsp;country. PM Modi participated in the summit virtually.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the German government has dismissed reports of Berlin not keen to invite New Delhi for the summit due to its Russian policy amid the Ukraine war. It's believed that Germany is planning to not only invite India for the June summit but some other countries also.</p>

<p>India was first invited to&nbsp;the G7 outreach summit in 2003 when the then Indian PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee was invited by France. From 2005 to 2009, India has been annually invited to the G7 outreach summit with PM Manmohan Singh representing India.</p>

<p>Germany, this year's G7 host has had close ties with Delhi. EAM Jaishankar was in Munich in February this year for the security conference.&nbsp;During his visit,&nbsp;Jaishankar&nbsp;met his German counterpart.</p>

<p>PM Modi is expected to travel to the country in early May for the 6th Inter-governmental Consultations(IGC). The then German Chancellor Angela Merkel had visited India from October 31 - November 1, 2019 for consultations which takes place every two&nbsp;years alternately between the two&nbsp;countries.</p>

<p>This year's IGC is taking place after a gap of three&nbsp;years because of the pandemic. It&nbsp;will also be the first in-person meeting between PM Modi and the new German Chancellor Olaf Scholz. The PM will also travel to Denmark for the India Nordic in-person summit.</p>


Germany has informally intimated New Delhi its intent to invite India for the G7 summit. A formal invite is expected soon from Berlin to India. The summit is due to take place from June 26-28 at Schloss Elmau in the Bavarian Alps.

Germany has informally intimated New Delhi its intent to invite India for the G7 summit. A formal invite is expected soon from Berlin to India. The summit is due to take place from June 26-28 at Schloss Elmau in the Bavarian Alps. Germany is the chair of the grouping for this year and holds the meeting amid the Russian invasion of Ukraine. It is the fourth time India has been consecutively invited to the G7 summit since 2019. France in 2019 had invited India for the G7 ‘Biarritz Summit’ as “a goodwill partner”. In 2020, President Donald Trump had invited PM Modi to the G7 outreach summit at Camp David. The summit was to take place in June 2020 however due to the COVID-19 crisis it could not take place. Last year the UK had invited India for the G7 summit, but PM Modi could not travel due to the second COVID-19 wave in the country. PM Modi participated in the summit virtually. Meanwhile, the German government has dismissed reports of Berlin not keen to invite New Delhi for the summit due to its Russian policy amid the Ukraine war. It's believed that Germany is planning to not only invite India for the June summit but some other countries also. India was first invited to the G7 outreach summit in 2003 when the then Indian PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee was invited by France. From 2005 to 2009, India has been annually invited to the G7 outreach summit with PM Manmohan Singh representing India. Germany, this year's G7 host has had close ties with Delhi. EAM Jaishankar was in Munich in February this year for the security conference. During his visit, Jaishankar met his German counterpart. PM Modi is expected to travel to the country in early May for the 6th Inter-governmental Consultations(IGC). The then German Chancellor Angela Merkel had visited India from October 31 - November 1, 2019 for consultations which takes place every two years alternately between the two countries. This year's IGC is taking place after a gap of three years because of the pandemic. It will also be the first in-person meeting between PM Modi and the new German Chancellor Olaf Scholz. The PM will also travel to Denmark for the India Nordic in-person summit.

India invited by Germany for G7 summit in June

<p>In the wake of accusations levelled against Rishi Sunak over the alleged Russian link, Indian IT firm behemoth Infosys has announced to move its business out of the Russian market.</p>

<p>There has been growing pressure on UK’s Finance Minister Rishi Sunak over Infosys, the company co-founded by his father-in-law, not moving out of Russia following the Ukrainian war.</p>

<p>He has also been facing pressure over his wife Akshata Murty, the daughter of Infosys’ co-founder, Narayan Murthy, reportedly holding 0.9 per cent shares of the firm.</p>

<p>It has been alleged that she did not pay tax on earnings from outside Britain, news agency Reuters reported.</p>

<p>On Wednesday, the company announced that it was "transitioning" out of the Russian market.</p>

<p>During a media briefing, Infosys chief executive and managing director Salil Parekh said, “Given what is going on in the region, we have started to transition all of our work from our centres in Russia to our centres outside Russia."</p>

<p>"We have no work with any Russian client today and we have no plans for any work with any Russian client going ahead," he added.</p>

<p>Parekh said the company was "very concerned" about the situation in Ukraine and had committed $1 million in humanitarian aid.</p>

<p>Infosys has been facing heat to cease operations after many IT firms suspended their operations. It had been maintaining "a small team... based out of Russia that services some of our global clients" until now.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-russia-war-rishi-sunaks-wife-akshata-murthy-under-scanner-over-infosys-shares-467642"><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;Ukraine-Russia war: Rishi Sunak's wife Akshata Murthy under scanner over Infosys shares</a></p>

<p>Notably, during an interview to Sky News, he was whether his family was “potentially benefiting” from Russian President Vladimir Putin’s regime, to which Sunak replied, “I don’t think that’s the case, and as I said the operations of all companies are up to them.</p>

<p>“We’ve put in place significant sanctions and all the companies we are responsible for are following those as they rightly should, sending a very strong message to Putin’s aggression," he had replied.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Rishi Sunak grilled over alleged Russia link</strong></p>

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<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>


In the wake of accusations levelled against Rishi Sunak over the alleged Russian link, Indian IT firm behemoth Infosys has announced to move its business out of the Russian market.

In the wake of accusations levelled against Rishi Sunak over the alleged Russian link, Indian IT firm behemoth Infosys has announced to move its business out of the Russian market. There has been growing pressure on UK’s Finance Minister Rishi Sunak over Infosys, the company co-founded by his father-in-law, not moving out of Russia following the Ukrainian war. He has also been facing pressure over his wife Akshata Murty, the daughter of Infosys’ co-founder, Narayan Murthy, reportedly holding 0.9 per cent shares of the firm. It has been alleged that she did not pay tax on earnings from outside Britain, news agency Reuters reported. On Wednesday, the company announced that it was "transitioning" out of the Russian market. During a media briefing, Infosys chief executive and managing director Salil Parekh said, “Given what is going on in the region, we have started to transition all of our work from our centres in Russia to our centres outside Russia." "We have no work with any Russian client today and we have no plans for any work with any Russian client going ahead," he added. Parekh said the company was "very concerned" about the situation in Ukraine and had committed $1 million in humanitarian aid. Infosys has been facing heat to cease operations after many IT firms suspended their operations. It had been maintaining "a small team... based out of Russia that services some of our global clients" until now. Also read | Ukraine-Russia war: Rishi Sunak's wife Akshata Murthy under scanner over Infosys shares Notably, during an interview to Sky News, he was whether his family was “potentially benefiting” from Russian President Vladimir Putin’s regime, to which Sunak replied, “I don’t think that’s the case, and as I said the operations of all companies are up to them. “We’ve put in place significant sanctions and all the companies we are responsible for are following those as they rightly should, sending a very strong message to Putin’s aggression," he had replied. Watch | Gravitas: Rishi Sunak grilled over alleged Russia link (With inputs from agencies)

Amidst row surrounding UK FM Rishi Sunak & wife Akshata, India’s Infosys exits Russia

<p>Acting on information about antique Hindu deity idols being kept without legal documents at a location in Puducherry has led to a prized catch for the Tamil Nadu’s idol wing in CID Police. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the cops, teams from Chennai conducted searches at a premise on Suffren Road, Puducherry on Tuesday (April 12) and seized three antique metal idols of Hindu deities. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/killer-of-indian-student-arrested-with-large-cache-of-guns-at-home-says-canadian-police-470735" hreflang="en">Killer of Indian student arrested with large ‘cache of guns’: Canadian Police</a></strong></p>

<p>Estimated to be over 600 years old (from the transition period of Chola and Vijayanagara dynasty), the idols are suspected to have been stolen from Hindu temples, before 1980. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The idols depicting 'Nataraja', 'Veendhara Siva' and 'Vishnu' are said to have previously been in the possession of late Joseph Colombani of Puducherry. However, no legal documents related to their possession were available at the premises. &nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Three <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Hindu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Hindu</a> deity(600yr old) metal idols valued at Rs.12cr seized from <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Pondicherry?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Pondicherry</a><br />
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Nataraja, Veendhara Shiva, Vishnu idols were once in possession of Late Joseph Colombani, say cops;<br />
Nataraja idol weighs 23kg, others 15kg each<br />
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Attempt to smuggle to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/France?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#France</a> had once failed <a href="https://t.co/A3gYQYZUMe">pic.twitter.com/A3gYQYZUMe</a></p>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1514207623423606784?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 13, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>Weighing 23 kg and measuring around two-and-a-half feet in height, the Nataraja idol alone is valued at Rs 60 million, whereas the other two idols that also measure about the same height and weight 15 kg are worth Rs 30 million each. Investigation is underway to ascertain the origin of these idols and the respective temples that they belong to. It was also revealed that the accused had made failed attempts to smuggle the idols to France. &nbsp;</p>

<p>According to Vijay, co-founder, India Pride Project,&nbsp;an NGO that works towards restitution of Indian antiquities, the recent seizures once again bring the focus on the need for collectors to register antiques in their possession. "The Antiquities and Art Treasures Act (AAT 1972) clearly defined antiquities as any artefacts over 100 years of age. The ASI designated registering officer will authenticate the artefact, conduct an enquiry on its provenance (ascertain the legitimacy of ownership) and once registered, the antiquity can be freely bought and sold within India via a registered dealership," he told WION. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch | WION Exclusive: Germany to invite India to G7 summit</strong></p>

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<p>Vijay said that such idols are anyway not permitted to be exported as India has banned the export of any artefact that is over 100 years old. &nbsp; &nbsp;</p>

<p>Non-registration of such artefacts is the primary cause for such criminality and combined with dodgy acquisition standards lead to a high exposure risk for criminal proceedings, when caught. Holders of antiques must know the law of the land and there is no excuse for not doing so, he pointed out.&nbsp;</p>


Acting on information about antique Hindu deity idols being kept without legal documents at a location in Puducherry has led to a prized catch for the Tamil Nadu’s idol wing in CID Police.

Acting on information about antique Hindu deity idols being kept without legal documents at a location in Puducherry has led to a prized catch for the Tamil Nadu’s idol wing in CID Police. According to the cops, teams from Chennai conducted searches at a premise on Suffren Road, Puducherry on Tuesday (April 12) and seized three antique metal idols of Hindu deities. Also Read: Killer of Indian student arrested with large ‘cache of guns’: Canadian Police Estimated to be over 600 years old (from the transition period of Chola and Vijayanagara dynasty), the idols are suspected to have been stolen from Hindu temples, before 1980. The idols depicting 'Nataraja', 'Veendhara Siva' and 'Vishnu' are said to have previously been in the possession of late Joseph Colombani of Puducherry. However, no legal documents related to their possession were available at the premises. Three #Hindu deity(600yr old) metal idols valued at Rs.12cr seized from #Pondicherry Nataraja, Veendhara Shiva, Vishnu idols were once in possession of Late Joseph Colombani, say cops; Nataraja idol weighs 23kg, others 15kg each Attempt to smuggle to #France had once failed pic.twitter.com/A3gYQYZUMe — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) April 13, 2022 × Weighing 23 kg and measuring around two-and-a-half feet in height, the Nataraja idol alone is valued at Rs 60 million, whereas the other two idols that also measure about the same height and weight 15 kg are worth Rs 30 million each. Investigation is underway to ascertain the origin of these idols and the respective temples that they belong to. It was also revealed that the accused had made failed attempts to smuggle the idols to France. According to Vijay, co-founder, India Pride Project, an NGO that works towards restitution of Indian antiquities, the recent seizures once again bring the focus on the need for collectors to register antiques in their possession. "The Antiquities and Art Treasures Act (AAT 1972) clearly defined antiquities as any artefacts over 100 years of age. The ASI designated registering officer will authenticate the artefact, conduct an enquiry on its provenance (ascertain the legitimacy of ownership) and once registered, the antiquity can be freely bought and sold within India via a registered dealership," he told WION. Watch | WION Exclusive: Germany to invite India to G7 summit × Vijay said that such idols are anyway not permitted to be exported as India has banned the export of any artefact that is over 100 years old. Non-registration of such artefacts is the primary cause for such criminality and combined with dodgy acquisition standards lead to a high exposure risk for criminal proceedings, when caught. Holders of antiques must know the law of the land and there is no excuse for not doing so, he pointed out.

600-year-old Hindu deity idols worth millions seized in India’s Puducherry  

<p>Amid a disrupted food chain supply in parts of the world which has been triggered due to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, India is all set to set up its wheat export.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the latest development, Egypt has confirmed that it is planning to add wheat from India to 16 other national import origins accepted by its state grains buyer, this month.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Egypt, which is considered the world's biggest wheat importer, is seeking to reconsider its purchases which have been largely disrupted after Russia attacked Ukraine, damaging several crucial ports.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Reuters reported citing an official statement by the Supply Ministry that a delegation from Egypt's Agriculture Ministry is in India "looking at phytosanitary measures and examining Indian grains in preparation for the accreditation of India as a wheat import origin."&nbsp;</p>

<p>In Egypt, the General Authority for Supply Commodities (GASC) set the tenders for the purchase of the grain as purchases go toward heavily subsidised bread for the people.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Important to note here that India's export of agricultural products has touched $40.87 billion in the first 10 months of the current fiscal and it is 25.14 per cent more than the last financial year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Exports of some other major agricultural products like wheat, sugar and cotton have registered a substantial increase during the current year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the last week of March, India's Union Minister of State for Commerce Anupriya Singh Patel said in Lok Sabha: "During the period between April 2021 to January 2022 of the current financial year, exports of agricultural products have amounted to $40.87 billion compared to USD 32.66 billion over the corresponding period of previous year, registering an increase of 25.14."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH&nbsp;| 'Moscow will continue its invasion of Ukraine until 'noble aims' are fulfilled,' says Putin</strong></p>

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Amid a disrupted food chain supply in parts of the world which has been triggered due to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, India is all set to set up its wheat export.

Amid a disrupted food chain supply in parts of the world which has been triggered due to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, India is all set to set up its wheat export. In the latest development, Egypt has confirmed that it is planning to add wheat from India to 16 other national import origins accepted by its state grains buyer, this month. Egypt, which is considered the world's biggest wheat importer, is seeking to reconsider its purchases which have been largely disrupted after Russia attacked Ukraine, damaging several crucial ports. Reuters reported citing an official statement by the Supply Ministry that a delegation from Egypt's Agriculture Ministry is in India "looking at phytosanitary measures and examining Indian grains in preparation for the accreditation of India as a wheat import origin." In Egypt, the General Authority for Supply Commodities (GASC) set the tenders for the purchase of the grain as purchases go toward heavily subsidised bread for the people. Important to note here that India's export of agricultural products has touched $40.87 billion in the first 10 months of the current fiscal and it is 25.14 per cent more than the last financial year. Exports of some other major agricultural products like wheat, sugar and cotton have registered a substantial increase during the current year. In the last week of March, India's Union Minister of State for Commerce Anupriya Singh Patel said in Lok Sabha: "During the period between April 2021 to January 2022 of the current financial year, exports of agricultural products have amounted to $40.87 billion compared to USD 32.66 billion over the corresponding period of previous year, registering an increase of 25.14." WATCH | 'Moscow will continue its invasion of Ukraine until 'noble aims' are fulfilled,' says Putin ×

Egypt planning to add India as a wheat import origin this month: Report

<p>AIADMK Coordinator and Former Deputy Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, O Panneerselvam has written to External Affairs Minister Dr.S. Jaishankar, seeking help over the release of Indian fishermen from Sri Lanka.</p>

<p>This is regarding 13 fishermen hailing from Tamil Nadu, who were captured and arrested by the Sri Lankan Navy on 23rd March this year. According to Panneerselvam, the innocent fishermen were eking out their livelihood on the high seas.</p>

<p>"The Sri Lankan Court has fixed a fine of Rupees one crore&nbsp;each as a bail amount to release the poor fishermen of Tamil Nadu. The fishermen of Tamil Nadu venture out to sea for fishing only with the constant fear of being attacked by the Sri Lankan Navy. Fixing of Rupees one crore each as the bail amount to release the arrested fishermen is adding fuel to the fire," read the letter.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Panneerselvam requested the immediate intervention of the External Affairs Minister, to secure the release of all the fishermen from Tamil Nadu and their fishing boats.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This comes at a time when the island nation is facing its worst-ever economic crisis since its independence. Amid the economic crisis in Sri Lanka, India has extended many a helping hand to the Indian ocean littoral state. On Tuesday (April 12), it was reported that the stock of 11,000 MT of rice from India reached Colombo.</p>

<p>This was announced ahead of the country's New Year celebrations, which will be celebrated on April 14. &nbsp;</p>

<p>In addition to a $1 billion line of credit, India provided food medicines and other essential commodities to the Government of Sri Lanka.</p>

<p>India has also extended a $500 million credit line to purchase fuel, besides 2,70,000 MT of petrol, diesel has already arrived in Sri Lanka.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(Rs.1 crore = $1,31,265&nbsp;approx)</em></p>


AIADMK Coordinator and Former Deputy Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, O Panneerselvam has written to External Affairs Minister Dr.S. Jaishankar, seeking help over the release of Indian fishermen from Sri Lanka.

AIADMK Coordinator and Former Deputy Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, O Panneerselvam has written to External Affairs Minister Dr.S. Jaishankar, seeking help over the release of Indian fishermen from Sri Lanka. This is regarding 13 fishermen hailing from Tamil Nadu, who were captured and arrested by the Sri Lankan Navy on 23rd March this year. According to Panneerselvam, the innocent fishermen were eking out their livelihood on the high seas. "The Sri Lankan Court has fixed a fine of Rupees one crore each as a bail amount to release the poor fishermen of Tamil Nadu. The fishermen of Tamil Nadu venture out to sea for fishing only with the constant fear of being attacked by the Sri Lankan Navy. Fixing of Rupees one crore each as the bail amount to release the arrested fishermen is adding fuel to the fire," read the letter. Panneerselvam requested the immediate intervention of the External Affairs Minister, to secure the release of all the fishermen from Tamil Nadu and their fishing boats. This comes at a time when the island nation is facing its worst-ever economic crisis since its independence. Amid the economic crisis in Sri Lanka, India has extended many a helping hand to the Indian ocean littoral state. On Tuesday (April 12), it was reported that the stock of 11,000 MT of rice from India reached Colombo. This was announced ahead of the country's New Year celebrations, which will be celebrated on April 14. In addition to a $1 billion line of credit, India provided food medicines and other essential commodities to the Government of Sri Lanka. India has also extended a $500 million credit line to purchase fuel, besides 2,70,000 MT of petrol, diesel has already arrived in Sri Lanka. (Rs.1 crore = $1,31,265 approx)

Lankan Court demands Rs.1crore for release of Indian fishermen, OPS writes to Jaishankar seeking help

<p>The police in Toronto claimed to have arrested a man suspected of killing 21-year-old Indian student Kartik Vasudev near the Sherbourne subway station last week.</p>

<p>The killer has been identified as 39-year-old Richard Jonathan Edwin, who is charged in another murder case that took place just two days after Vasudev was shot dead</p>

<p>According to police, Edwin’s second victim was Elijah Eleazar Mahepath (35), who was walking westbound on the north side of Dundas Street East near George Street.</p>

<p>Edwin was arrested Sunday evening with a cache of loaded guns at his disposal, police said.</p>

<p>Briefing the reporters on Tuesday, Toronto police chief James Ramer said both the attacks were random killings and completely “unprovoked”.</p>

<p>"Kartik was just outside the Sherbourne subway station last Thursday when he was approached by a stranger...Unprovoked, this man shot Kartik multiple times, killing him," Ramer told reporters.</p>

<p>“Any death is tragic, but these men were completely innocent, and their murders were absolutely random acts of violence," he added.</p>

<p>Police said that Edwin has no prior murder cases against him and was in “lawful” possession of these guns.</p>

<p>Ramer believes that had the suspect not been caught sooner, there could have been a string of random attacks across the city.</p>

<p>"When, I don't know, but he had an arsenal at home. Frankly, I believe this might have just been a first step," Ramer said.</p>

<p>The police have now launched a probe to find out about his background and if he is associated with any organisation.</p>

<p>Vasudev hailed from Ghaziabad city in Uttar Pradesh. He had moved to Canada in January to pursue higher studies, according to his family.</p>

<p>He was shot on Thursday evening at the Glen Road entrance to Sherbourne TTC station in St James Town. He was rushed to a hospital where he succumbed to his injuries.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Canada: Suspected killer of Indian student Kartik Vasudev arrested</strong></p>

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<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>


The police in Toronto claimed to have arrested a man suspected of killing 21-year-old Indian student Kartik Vasudev near the Sherbourne subway station last week.

The police in Toronto claimed to have arrested a man suspected of killing 21-year-old Indian student Kartik Vasudev near the Sherbourne subway station last week. The killer has been identified as 39-year-old Richard Jonathan Edwin, who is charged in another murder case that took place just two days after Vasudev was shot dead According to police, Edwin’s second victim was Elijah Eleazar Mahepath (35), who was walking westbound on the north side of Dundas Street East near George Street. Edwin was arrested Sunday evening with a cache of loaded guns at his disposal, police said. Briefing the reporters on Tuesday, Toronto police chief James Ramer said both the attacks were random killings and completely “unprovoked”. "Kartik was just outside the Sherbourne subway station last Thursday when he was approached by a stranger...Unprovoked, this man shot Kartik multiple times, killing him," Ramer told reporters. “Any death is tragic, but these men were completely innocent, and their murders were absolutely random acts of violence," he added. Police said that Edwin has no prior murder cases against him and was in “lawful” possession of these guns. Ramer believes that had the suspect not been caught sooner, there could have been a string of random attacks across the city. "When, I don't know, but he had an arsenal at home. Frankly, I believe this might have just been a first step," Ramer said. The police have now launched a probe to find out about his background and if he is associated with any organisation. Vasudev hailed from Ghaziabad city in Uttar Pradesh. He had moved to Canada in January to pursue higher studies, according to his family. He was shot on Thursday evening at the Glen Road entrance to Sherbourne TTC station in St James Town. He was rushed to a hospital where he succumbed to his injuries. Watch | Canada: Suspected killer of Indian student Kartik Vasudev arrested (With inputs from agencies)

Alleged killer of Indian student arrested with large ‘cache of guns at home’, says Canadian Police

Five days after a 21-year-old Indian student was shot dead in Canada, the police in Toronto have now claimed to have arrested the man who killed Kartik Vasudev, a management student from India's northern state of Uttar Pradesh, the police has now identified the suspect.

Canada: Suspected killer of Indian student Kartik Vasudev arrested

<p>India's western state of Maharashtra may experience electricity crisis&nbsp;due to shortage in coal supply, the state energy minister Nitin Raut said.</p>

<p>"Many states are facing coal shortage due to reduced production in coal mines. Even if coal becomes available, rakes for its transportation are not available," Raut said.</p>

<p>The minister said expenditure on electricity has gone up even as power consumers are yet to clear the pending dues.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-march-electricity-shortage-worst-since-coal-crisis-in-october-467206">Also Read:&nbsp;India's March electricity shortage worst since coal crisis in October</a></p>

<p>"We have to be dependent on thermal power generation projects for electricity. We have to do load shedding to some extent," the minister added.</p>

<p>Reports claim global thermal coal prices have remained high due to the Ukraine-Russia war with sanctions imposed on Russian coal.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/is-india-leaning-toward-continued-import-of-russian-coking-coal-465988">Also Read:&nbsp;Is India leaning toward continued import of Russian coking coal?</a></p>

<p>Reports say power supply shortages have been recorded in Jharkhand, Haryana, Punjab, J&amp;K and Madhya Pradesh.</p>

<p>News agency Reuters reported that the shortage of trains to deliver coal to power plants has also led supply crisis with Indian Railways committing 415 trains per day which is 8.4 per cent lower than the 453 required.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, PTI quoted coal aecretary Anil Kumar Jain as saying that "coal block allocatees have a golden opportunity for increasing coal production as the price of imported coal is very high and demand of thermal coal will increase due to increase in electricity demand in the country."</p>

<p>(With inputs from Agencies)</p>


India's western state of Maharashtra may experience electricity crisis due to shortage in coal supply, the state energy minister Nitin Raut said. "Many states are facing coal shortage due to reduced production in coal mines.

India's western state of Maharashtra may experience electricity crisis due to shortage in coal supply, the state energy minister Nitin Raut said. "Many states are facing coal shortage due to reduced production in coal mines. Even if coal becomes available, rakes for its transportation are not available," Raut said. The minister said expenditure on electricity has gone up even as power consumers are yet to clear the pending dues. Also Read: India's March electricity shortage worst since coal crisis in October "We have to be dependent on thermal power generation projects for electricity. We have to do load shedding to some extent," the minister added. Reports claim global thermal coal prices have remained high due to the Ukraine-Russia war with sanctions imposed on Russian coal. Also Read: Is India leaning toward continued import of Russian coking coal? Reports say power supply shortages have been recorded in Jharkhand, Haryana, Punjab, J&K and Madhya Pradesh. News agency Reuters reported that the shortage of trains to deliver coal to power plants has also led supply crisis with Indian Railways committing 415 trains per day which is 8.4 per cent lower than the 453 required. Meanwhile, PTI quoted coal aecretary Anil Kumar Jain as saying that "coal block allocatees have a golden opportunity for increasing coal production as the price of imported coal is very high and demand of thermal coal will increase due to increase in electricity demand in the country." (With inputs from Agencies)

Electricity crisis: Many states facing coal shortage, says Maharashtra minister

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


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

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

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

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


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

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

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

<p>To show how much it cares about its employees, an Indian IT firm gifted BMW cars, each costing around US $130,000, to honour their loyalty and commitment to the company.</p>

<p>Five senior executives of global software-as-a-service company Kissflow Inc, which is headquartered in southern Chennai city, received BMW 530d on Friday.</p>

<p>The company appreciated them for assisting their boss in 'digging gold' and making the firm weather the COVID-19 storm that threatened the firm’s existence, as even some of the investors were doubtful of the firm’s success.</p>

<p>According to Kissflow Inc CEO Suresh Sambandam, these five employees were with him right from the inception of the company and stayed with him during the course of the journey, news agency PTI reported.</p>

<p>“There were difficult times. Even during the pandemic, the investors were not sure whether this company will sustain and build a future. Today we are very happy that we have paid back the investors and now it has become a fully owned privately held company," he was quoted as saying.</p>

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<p>Notably, not many were aware of the event on Friday, even those who received the cars were kept in the dark.</p>

<p>All the employees who were present at the event reportedly thought that they were being called in to discuss the future of the company.</p>

<p>"The cars are for these five who were with me when I dug 100 feet for gold (setting up Kissflow while others left the organisation midway)," Sambandam said.</p>

<p>When asked if the other would be handsomely rewarded, Sambandam, owner of a BMW 6 Series vehicle said, "this is an inspiration to them. We want to motivate them (to perform much better). We take care of our employees much better".</p>

<p>"For example, there is no sick leave or casual leave here unlike other companies. It is just one leave for them. If they do not want to come and work, they can work from home. There is no attendance system like biometric system and all...we know our employees", he said.</p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>


To show how much it cares about its employees, an Indian IT firm gifted BMW cars, each costing around US $130,000, to honour their loyalty and commitment to the company.

To show how much it cares about its employees, an Indian IT firm gifted BMW cars, each costing around US $130,000, to honour their loyalty and commitment to the company. Five senior executives of global software-as-a-service company Kissflow Inc, which is headquartered in southern Chennai city, received BMW 530d on Friday. The company appreciated them for assisting their boss in 'digging gold' and making the firm weather the COVID-19 storm that threatened the firm’s existence, as even some of the investors were doubtful of the firm’s success. According to Kissflow Inc CEO Suresh Sambandam, these five employees were with him right from the inception of the company and stayed with him during the course of the journey, news agency PTI reported. “There were difficult times. Even during the pandemic, the investors were not sure whether this company will sustain and build a future. Today we are very happy that we have paid back the investors and now it has become a fully owned privately held company," he was quoted as saying. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kissflow (@kissflowinc) × Notably, not many were aware of the event on Friday, even those who received the cars were kept in the dark. All the employees who were present at the event reportedly thought that they were being called in to discuss the future of the company. "The cars are for these five who were with me when I dug 100 feet for gold (setting up Kissflow while others left the organisation midway)," Sambandam said. When asked if the other would be handsomely rewarded, Sambandam, owner of a BMW 6 Series vehicle said, "this is an inspiration to them. We want to motivate them (to perform much better). We take care of our employees much better". "For example, there is no sick leave or casual leave here unlike other companies. It is just one leave for them. If they do not want to come and work, they can work from home. There is no attendance system like biometric system and all...we know our employees", he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: This Indian IT firm gifted BMW cars to employees for their loyalty

Bolstering security and democracy in Asia pacific region was also part of the dialogue between the Indian foreign and defense ministers and their US counterparts. Indian and US officials discussed ways to ensure a free open and inclusive Indo-Pacific.

United States and India hails Indo-Pacific cooperation, China and Russia dominate talks

<p>Ali Kashif Jan, the Pakistani handler of the 2016 terror attack on Pathankot air base, has been designated as a terrorist by the government.</p>

<p>Jan alias Jan Ali Kashif is the third terrorist to have been designated as a terrorist by the central government in the last five days.</p>

<p>The Union home ministry said in a notification than Jan was the handler of Punjab's Pathankot air force station terror attack in January 2016 in which seven security personnel and one civilian were killed.</p>

<p>Jan, 42, is the operational commander and part of the core planning committee of the dreaded terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM). He continues to operate from the launching pads located in Pakistan and is involved in recruitment of cadres for their training and coordinate attack plans at targets in India, the home ministry said.</p>

<p>Jan is also accused in various cases registered and being investigated by the National Investigation Agency. He had been declared proclaimed offender in these cases.</p>

<p>After the terror attack at the Pathankot air base, a five-member team of Pakistani investigators had visited the air base and collected evidence for three days and met witnesses and survivors.</p>

<p>However, after the Pakistani team returned home, it put the blame on India for the attack.</p>

<p>Jan was born on January 30, 1982 and a resident of Charsadda, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in Pakistan.</p>

<p>A Red Corner Notice was also issued against him. Jan is now 34th individual who has been designated as terrorist by the government.</p>

<p>On April 8, the government had designated Hafiz Talha Saeed, a key leader of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and the son of 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks mastermind Hafiz Saeed, a terrorist.</p>

<p>On Monday, Pakistani national Mohiuddin Aurangzeb Alamgir, who was involved in the terror attack on a CRPF bus in Pulwama in Jammu and Kashmir in 2019, was designated as a terrorist.</p>

<p>The JeM has been responsible for a series of deadly attacks in India, mostly in Jammu and Kashmir, in which scores of civilians and security personnel have been killed over the years.</p>

<p>JeM founder Maulana Masood Azhar, who was released by India in exchange for the release of a hijacked Indian Airlines flight from Kandahar in 1999, is one of the most wanted terrorists in India, along with LeT founder Hafiz Saeed and the LeT 'operational commander' Zakiur Rehman Lakhvi.</p>

<p>India has been consistently seeking Azhar's custody but Pakistan has refused to comply.</p>

<p>The JeM is listed as a terrorist organisation under the First Schedule of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, or the UAPA.</p>

<p>The UAPA has been enacted to provide for more effective prevention of certain unlawful activities of associations and individuals and for dealing with terrorist activities and for matters connected therewith.</p>

<p>The act empowers the central government to notify the name of an individual in its Fourth Schedule if it believes that he is involved in terrorism.&nbsp;</p>


Ali Kashif Jan, the Pakistani handler of the 2016 terror attack on Pathankot air base, has been designated as a terrorist by the government. Jan alias Jan Ali Kashif is the third terrorist to have been designated as a terrorist by the central government in the last five days.

Ali Kashif Jan, the Pakistani handler of the 2016 terror attack on Pathankot air base, has been designated as a terrorist by the government. Jan alias Jan Ali Kashif is the third terrorist to have been designated as a terrorist by the central government in the last five days. The Union home ministry said in a notification than Jan was the handler of Punjab's Pathankot air force station terror attack in January 2016 in which seven security personnel and one civilian were killed. Jan, 42, is the operational commander and part of the core planning committee of the dreaded terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM). He continues to operate from the launching pads located in Pakistan and is involved in recruitment of cadres for their training and coordinate attack plans at targets in India, the home ministry said. Jan is also accused in various cases registered and being investigated by the National Investigation Agency. He had been declared proclaimed offender in these cases. After the terror attack at the Pathankot air base, a five-member team of Pakistani investigators had visited the air base and collected evidence for three days and met witnesses and survivors. However, after the Pakistani team returned home, it put the blame on India for the attack. Jan was born on January 30, 1982 and a resident of Charsadda, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in Pakistan. A Red Corner Notice was also issued against him. Jan is now 34th individual who has been designated as terrorist by the government. On April 8, the government had designated Hafiz Talha Saeed, a key leader of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and the son of 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks mastermind Hafiz Saeed, a terrorist. On Monday, Pakistani national Mohiuddin Aurangzeb Alamgir, who was involved in the terror attack on a CRPF bus in Pulwama in Jammu and Kashmir in 2019, was designated as a terrorist. The JeM has been responsible for a series of deadly attacks in India, mostly in Jammu and Kashmir, in which scores of civilians and security personnel have been killed over the years. JeM founder Maulana Masood Azhar, who was released by India in exchange for the release of a hijacked Indian Airlines flight from Kandahar in 1999, is one of the most wanted terrorists in India, along with LeT founder Hafiz Saeed and the LeT 'operational commander' Zakiur Rehman Lakhvi. India has been consistently seeking Azhar's custody but Pakistan has refused to comply. The JeM is listed as a terrorist organisation under the First Schedule of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, or the UAPA. The UAPA has been enacted to provide for more effective prevention of certain unlawful activities of associations and individuals and for dealing with terrorist activities and for matters connected therewith. The act empowers the central government to notify the name of an individual in its Fourth Schedule if it believes that he is involved in terrorism.

India designates Pak handler of 2016 Pathankot air base attack as terrorist

Top officials from the world's two largest democracies held ministerial-level talks in Washington after their leaders from India and the United States discussed their differences over the Ukraine war.

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Top officials from the world's two largest democracies held ministerial-level talks in Washington after their leaders from India and the United States discussed their differences over the Ukraine war. WION's principal correspondent Siddhant Sibal brings in more on this.

India | MEA: Our monthly purchase of Russian oil less than Europe's in a day

Signs of climate change are evident. A heat wave like never before has gripped the northern and central belt in India, temperatures are soaring as high as 45 degrees Celsius. India recorded its warmest March in 122 years and April is going to be no better.

India records warmest March in 122 years, orange alert imposed

<p>After India, US 2+2 dialogue in Washington both sides issued&nbsp;a joint statement calling on&nbsp;"Pakistan to take immediate, sustained, and irreversible action to ensure that no territory under its control is used for terrorist attacks."</p>

<p>On India's determination to purchase the S-400 missile defence system from Russia, US secretary of State Antony Blinken said: "We have not made determination potential sanctions or waivers under CAATSA law."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/our-purchases-for-the-month-would-be-less-than-what-europe-does-in-an-afternoon-jaishankar-on-russian-oil-470374">Also Read |&nbsp;Our purchase&nbsp;of Russian oil&nbsp;would be less than what Europe does in an afternoon: Jaishankar</a></p>

<p>The US secretary of state reiterated that he had urged all nations not to undertake weapons delivery from Russia during the 2+2 ministerial dialogue between the defence and foreign ministers of India and the United States.</p>

<p>However, Blinken acknowledged that India and Russia have a "long history and long relationship" in defence equipment trade.</p>

<p>"That relationship took hold at a time when we were not able and willing to be a partner to India. Now we are both able and willing to be such a partner to be the security partner of choice for India," Blinken said.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;India-US 2+2 meeting: Ukraine war looms large&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>US defence secretary Lloyd Austin said the Biden administration has&nbsp;been "actively" discussing "military modernisation with India".</p>

<p>Austin had stated&nbsp;earlier that India uses several Russian-made weapons, including tanks and missile systems and has signed military deals including the purchase of S-400 missile defence system.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-us-22-dialogue-a-momentous-moment-in-global-affairs-470362">Also Read:&nbsp;India-US 2+2 dialogue a 'momentous moment' in global affairs</a></p>

<p>The US defence secretary announced that India and the US had signed a bilateral space situational awareness arrangement on the sidelines of the India-US 2+2 ministerial dialogue.</p>

<p>"We recently concluded an agreement to work together on air-launched unmanned aerial vehicles through our Defence Technology and Trade Initiative," Austin informed.</p>

<p>The US defence secretary said he welcomed Indian Navy's decision to join the combined maritime forces in Bahrain while reminding that the Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group had conducted the first-ever combined anti-submarine warfare and air exercise with the Indian Navy and Air Force last year.</p>

<p>(With inputs from Agencies)</p>


After India, US 2+2 dialogue in Washington both sides issued a joint statement calling on "Pakistan to take immediate, sustained, and irreversible action to ensure that no territory under its control is used for terrorist attacks.

After India, US 2+2 dialogue in Washington both sides issued a joint statement calling on "Pakistan to take immediate, sustained, and irreversible action to ensure that no territory under its control is used for terrorist attacks." On India's determination to purchase the S-400 missile defence system from Russia, US secretary of State Antony Blinken said: "We have not made determination potential sanctions or waivers under CAATSA law." Also Read | Our purchase of Russian oil would be less than what Europe does in an afternoon: Jaishankar The US secretary of state reiterated that he had urged all nations not to undertake weapons delivery from Russia during the 2+2 ministerial dialogue between the defence and foreign ministers of India and the United States. However, Blinken acknowledged that India and Russia have a "long history and long relationship" in defence equipment trade. "That relationship took hold at a time when we were not able and willing to be a partner to India. Now we are both able and willing to be such a partner to be the security partner of choice for India," Blinken said. Watch: India-US 2+2 meeting: Ukraine war looms large US defence secretary Lloyd Austin said the Biden administration has been "actively" discussing "military modernisation with India". Austin had stated earlier that India uses several Russian-made weapons, including tanks and missile systems and has signed military deals including the purchase of S-400 missile defence system. Also Read: India-US 2+2 dialogue a 'momentous moment' in global affairs The US defence secretary announced that India and the US had signed a bilateral space situational awareness arrangement on the sidelines of the India-US 2+2 ministerial dialogue. "We recently concluded an agreement to work together on air-launched unmanned aerial vehicles through our Defence Technology and Trade Initiative," Austin informed. The US defence secretary said he welcomed Indian Navy's decision to join the combined maritime forces in Bahrain while reminding that the Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group had conducted the first-ever combined anti-submarine warfare and air exercise with the Indian Navy and Air Force last year. (With inputs from Agencies)

India-US 2+2 talks: CAATSA waiver for Russian S-400 system, Pak support for terror discussed

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

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

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

<p>The Indian Defence Ministry on Tuesday announced that the indigenous anti-tank guided missile 'Helina' has been successfully tested.</p>

<p>It said in an official statement, “In continuation to validation trials conducted at Pokhran, proof of efficacy at high altitudes paves the way for its integration on ALH. The trials were witnessed by senior Army commanders and senior scientists of DRDO.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>The second round of testing was conducted at high-altitude ranges as ''part of user validation trials'' by teams of scientists from the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the Indian Army, and the Indian Air Force (IAF).</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Indigenously developed <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ATGM?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ATGM</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HELINA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HELINA</a> was successfully flight-tested from a helicopter at high-altitude ranges, today.<br />
The flight-test was jointly conducted by the teams of scientists of <a href="https://twitter.com/DRDO_India?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DRDO_India</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianArmy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianArmy</a> and the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianAirForce?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianAirForce</a><br />
Read here: <a href="https://t.co/e3Y8c2K9Xs">https://t.co/e3Y8c2K9Xs</a> <a href="https://t.co/TMMrvBf2F9">pic.twitter.com/TMMrvBf2F9</a></p>
— A. Bharat Bhushan Babu (@SpokespersonMoD) <a href="https://twitter.com/SpokespersonMoD/status/1513478431501164544?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 11, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>The missile is equipped with variants of the ALH Dhruv chopper. It is guided by an Imaging Infra-Red (IIR) Seeker operating in the Lock on Before Launch mode.</p>

<p>DRDO officials said, ''It is one of the most advanced anti-tank weapons in the world.''</p>

<p>According to Air Vice Marshal Anil Golani (retd), additional director general, Centre for Air Power Studies, “The successful test demonstrates our indigenous weapon building prowess. Now the focus should be on integrating the missile on the helicopter, production and operationalisation of the weapon in the armed forces.”&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-us-22-dialogue-pak-action-on-terror-caatsa-law-on-russian-s-400-missiles-for-india-470386" hreflang="en">India-US 2+2 dialogue: Pak action on terror, CAATSA on Russian S-400 missiles</a></strong></p>

<p>For performing a commendable job in difficult conditions, Secretary Department of Defence RD and Chairman DRDO Dr G Satheesh Reddy congratulated the teams.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Defence Ministry said Helina has all-weather day and night capability. It can defeat battle tanks with conventional armour as well as with explosive reactive armour.</p>

<p>Earlier, India had successfully tested a stand-off anti-tank (SANT) missile four months ago. It has a range of 10 km.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh had said, “Anyone can now break into the security system of a country with the help of different communication methods. No matter how strong the system is, if it is linked to another country, there is a possibility of a security breach. Newer defence systems and platforms are electronic and software-intensive. They can be controlled or subverted from anywhere.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>''Under ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan’, we have provisions which provide suitable opportunities and environment to foreign companies to invest, collaborate, set up joint ventures and earn profit,'' he added.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Indian Defence Ministry on Tuesday announced that the indigenous anti-tank guided missile 'Helina' has been successfully tested. It said in an official statement, “In continuation to validation trials conducted at Pokhran, proof of efficacy at high altitudes paves the way for its integration on ALH.

The Indian Defence Ministry on Tuesday announced that the indigenous anti-tank guided missile 'Helina' has been successfully tested. It said in an official statement, “In continuation to validation trials conducted at Pokhran, proof of efficacy at high altitudes paves the way for its integration on ALH. The trials were witnessed by senior Army commanders and senior scientists of DRDO.” The second round of testing was conducted at high-altitude ranges as ''part of user validation trials'' by teams of scientists from the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the Indian Army, and the Indian Air Force (IAF). Indigenously developed #ATGM #HELINA was successfully flight-tested from a helicopter at high-altitude ranges, today. The flight-test was jointly conducted by the teams of scientists of @DRDO_India, #IndianArmy and the #IndianAirForce Read here: https://t.co/e3Y8c2K9Xs pic.twitter.com/TMMrvBf2F9 — A. Bharat Bhushan Babu (@SpokespersonMoD) April 11, 2022 × The missile is equipped with variants of the ALH Dhruv chopper. It is guided by an Imaging Infra-Red (IIR) Seeker operating in the Lock on Before Launch mode. DRDO officials said, ''It is one of the most advanced anti-tank weapons in the world.'' According to Air Vice Marshal Anil Golani (retd), additional director general, Centre for Air Power Studies, “The successful test demonstrates our indigenous weapon building prowess. Now the focus should be on integrating the missile on the helicopter, production and operationalisation of the weapon in the armed forces.” Also read | India-US 2+2 dialogue: Pak action on terror, CAATSA on Russian S-400 missiles For performing a commendable job in difficult conditions, Secretary Department of Defence RD and Chairman DRDO Dr G Satheesh Reddy congratulated the teams. The Defence Ministry said Helina has all-weather day and night capability. It can defeat battle tanks with conventional armour as well as with explosive reactive armour. Earlier, India had successfully tested a stand-off anti-tank (SANT) missile four months ago. It has a range of 10 km. Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh had said, “Anyone can now break into the security system of a country with the help of different communication methods. No matter how strong the system is, if it is linked to another country, there is a possibility of a security breach. Newer defence systems and platforms are electronic and software-intensive. They can be controlled or subverted from anywhere.” ''Under ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan’, we have provisions which provide suitable opportunities and environment to foreign companies to invest, collaborate, set up joint ventures and earn profit,'' he added. (With inputs from agencies)

India successfully tests indigenous anti-tank guided missile 'Helina'

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


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

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

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

<p>India’s indigenous 17-seater Dornier 228 plane began its maiden commercial operations on Tuesday, giving a significant boost to its ‘Make in India’ ambitions.</p>

<p>The flight was accompanied by senior government officials and ministers, including Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia and law minister Kiren Rijiju.</p>

<p>The flight will connect Assam’s Dibrugarh and Arunachal’s Pasighat and is set to boost air connectivity in the northeastern region.</p>

<p>In the coming months, the services will be further expanded to Tezu, Mechuka, Ziro and Tuting in Arunachal with the Dibrugarh airport as the hub station.</p>

<p>In phase II, the service will connect Mechuka, Vijaynagar and other places.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The historic flight lands at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ArunachalPradesh?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ArunachalPradesh</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MakeInIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MakeInIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Dornier?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Dornier</a> Aircraft of <a href="https://twitter.com/allianceair?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@allianceair</a> for commercial passenger operated for the first time in India.With dignitaries on board it arrived today at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Pasighat?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Pasighat</a> which marks the beginning of new ear in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NorthEast?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NorthEast</a> India <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/aviation?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#aviation</a> <a href="https://t.co/ksGVyuNrFb">pic.twitter.com/ksGVyuNrFb</a></p>
— Regional Executive Dir. AAI, North-East Region (@aairedner) <a href="https://twitter.com/aairedner/status/1513786723653677064?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 12, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>The flight is being operated by Alliance Air under the government-promoted UDAN scheme that seeks to provide air connectivity and aviation infrastructure in the remote parts of India.</p>

<p>In February, the government-run Alliance Air had signed an agreement with government-owned Hindustan Aeronautics Limited to lease two 17-seater Dornier 228 aircraft. The airline received its first Dornier 228 plane on April 7.</p>

<p>“Development of North Eastern Region (NER) is not only of strategic importance, but is also part of India’s growth story. Connectivity in NER is very essential and Under “Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagrik (UDAN)”, the Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS), Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) has identified NER as a priority area. This has helped in enhancing inter and intra connectivity for the NER,” the government said in a press release.</p>

<p>Under the scheme, new airports are getting developed and old airports are getting upgraded.</p>

<p>“Considering the hilly terrain, helicopter operations under UDAN scheme have been given focus for connectivity,” the press release said.</p>

<p>The Dornier 228 plane uses Advanced Landing Grounds (ALG) maintained by the Indian Air Force.</p>

<p>It is a twin-turboprop short take-off and landing utility aircraft. The aircraft has a wingspan of 16.97 m, overall length of 16.56 m, and overall height of 4.86 m.</p>


India’s indigenous 17-seater Dornier 228 plane began its maiden commercial operations on Tuesday, giving a significant boost to its ‘Make in India’ ambitions. The flight was accompanied by senior government officials and ministers, including Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia and law minister Kiren Rijiju.

India’s indigenous 17-seater Dornier 228 plane began its maiden commercial operations on Tuesday, giving a significant boost to its ‘Make in India’ ambitions. The flight was accompanied by senior government officials and ministers, including Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia and law minister Kiren Rijiju. The flight will connect Assam’s Dibrugarh and Arunachal’s Pasighat and is set to boost air connectivity in the northeastern region. In the coming months, the services will be further expanded to Tezu, Mechuka, Ziro and Tuting in Arunachal with the Dibrugarh airport as the hub station. In phase II, the service will connect Mechuka, Vijaynagar and other places. The historic flight lands at #ArunachalPradesh#MakeInIndia #Dornier Aircraft of @allianceair for commercial passenger operated for the first time in India.With dignitaries on board it arrived today at #Pasighat which marks the beginning of new ear in #NorthEast India #aviation pic.twitter.com/ksGVyuNrFb — Regional Executive Dir. AAI, North-East Region (@aairedner) April 12, 2022 × The flight is being operated by Alliance Air under the government-promoted UDAN scheme that seeks to provide air connectivity and aviation infrastructure in the remote parts of India. In February, the government-run Alliance Air had signed an agreement with government-owned Hindustan Aeronautics Limited to lease two 17-seater Dornier 228 aircraft. The airline received its first Dornier 228 plane on April 7. “Development of North Eastern Region (NER) is not only of strategic importance, but is also part of India’s growth story. Connectivity in NER is very essential and Under “Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagrik (UDAN)”, the Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS), Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) has identified NER as a priority area. This has helped in enhancing inter and intra connectivity for the NER,” the government said in a press release. Under the scheme, new airports are getting developed and old airports are getting upgraded. “Considering the hilly terrain, helicopter operations under UDAN scheme have been given focus for connectivity,” the press release said. The Dornier 228 plane uses Advanced Landing Grounds (ALG) maintained by the Indian Air Force. It is a twin-turboprop short take-off and landing utility aircraft. The aircraft has a wingspan of 16.97 m, overall length of 16.56 m, and overall height of 4.86 m.

India’s indigenous Dornier plane starts off its maiden commercial ops from Assam to Arunachal

<p>Just hours after US President Joe Biden spoke to India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a virtual summit, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said,&nbsp;"It is important that all countries, especially those with leverage, press Putin to end the war" referring to the Ukraine war.</p>

<p>"It's also important that democracy stand together and speak with one voice to defend the values that we share," the US Secretary of state added.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/narendra-modi-and-joe-hold-virtual-talks-to-discuss-russia-ukraine-war-470320">Also Read: Modi and Joe Biden hold virtual talks, discuss Russia-Ukraine war and other issues</a></p>

<p>Defending India's position on buying Russian oil, India's external affairs minister S. Jaishankar&nbsp;said: "We buy some energy necessary for our energy security. But I suspect, looking at figures, our purchases for the month would be less than what Europe does in an afternoon."</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Ukraine invasion: What Modi told Biden</strong></p>

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<p>The US said energy imports from Russia are not banned&nbsp;and India is not violating US sanctions.</p>

<p>"Quad is a great stabiliser," Jaishankar added. Amid sanctions on Russia, Blinken said&nbsp;the Biden administration still has "not made determination potential sanctions or waivers under CAATSA law" with India intent on buying the S-400 missile defence system from Russia.</p>

<p>"India is the third-largest consumer of energy..we increased energy trade with India," Blinken informed.</p>

<p>S. Jaishankar&nbsp;said the India US 2+2 ministerial had helped to "strategise on mitigating the volatility and unpredictability that the world is currently experiencing".</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-us-22-dialogue-a-momentous-moment-in-global-affairs-470362">Also Read:&nbsp;India-US 2+2 dialogue a 'momentous moment' in global affairs</a></p>

<p>In a joint statement after India, US 2+2 dialogue in Washington both sides called on "Pakistan to take immediate, sustained, and irreversible action to ensure that no territory under its control is used for terrorist attacks."</p>

<p>(With inputs from Agencies)</p>


Just hours after US President Joe Biden spoke to India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a virtual summit, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said, "It is important that all countries, especially those with leverage, press Putin to end the war" referring to the Ukraine war.

Just hours after US President Joe Biden spoke to India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a virtual summit, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said, "It is important that all countries, especially those with leverage, press Putin to end the war" referring to the Ukraine war. "It's also important that democracy stand together and speak with one voice to defend the values that we share," the US Secretary of state added. Also Read: Modi and Joe Biden hold virtual talks, discuss Russia-Ukraine war and other issues Defending India's position on buying Russian oil, India's external affairs minister S. Jaishankar said: "We buy some energy necessary for our energy security. But I suspect, looking at figures, our purchases for the month would be less than what Europe does in an afternoon." Watch | Ukraine invasion: What Modi told Biden The US said energy imports from Russia are not banned and India is not violating US sanctions. "Quad is a great stabiliser," Jaishankar added. Amid sanctions on Russia, Blinken said the Biden administration still has "not made determination potential sanctions or waivers under CAATSA law" with India intent on buying the S-400 missile defence system from Russia. "India is the third-largest consumer of energy..we increased energy trade with India," Blinken informed. S. Jaishankar said the India US 2+2 ministerial had helped to "strategise on mitigating the volatility and unpredictability that the world is currently experiencing". Also Read: India-US 2+2 dialogue a 'momentous moment' in global affairs In a joint statement after India, US 2+2 dialogue in Washington both sides called on "Pakistan to take immediate, sustained, and irreversible action to ensure that no territory under its control is used for terrorist attacks." (With inputs from Agencies)

Our purchases for the month would be less than what Europe does in an afternoon: Jaishankar on Russian oil

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

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

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

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