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Kashmir Valley has broken all the previous records of tourist arrivals in the last three months. The valley saw more than 3,40,000 tourist arrivals in the months of January, February and March. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The March month saw the maximum tourist arrivals of 1,80,000 tourists. After years, such a huge number of tourist arrivals have been witnessed in the Kashmir Valley. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The tourist rush pushed the government to increase the number of flights running at Srinagar Airport. Around 92 flights operate daily from Srinagar airport with the passengers numbering around 15,000. &nbsp; &nbsp;

In the last seven days of April, 58,000 tourists have come to the valley. The Tulip Garden was opened in the last week of March and on April 2, more than 50,000 people thronged the garden. &nbsp; &nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-from-april-10-all-above-18-years-eligible-for-booster-doses-of-covid-19-vaccine-469351" hreflang="en">India: From April 10, all adults eligible for booster doses of COVID vaccine</a>

''We had around 60,000 tourists coming in the month of January. In February, it went up to 1,00,000 and in March, we had a record-breaking number of 1,80,000 tourists coming to this place. In the last 7 days of April, we have already had 58,000 tourist arrivals. Around 8,000 arrivals are happening per day. So, in the last three months, it has crossed the 3,00,000 number. It's very encouraging to see our efforts yielding results. We expect more tourists to come in future,'' said Ahsan Ul Haq, Deputy Director, Tourism. &nbsp; &nbsp;

Around 3,00,000 tourists have visited the Tulip Garden so far. The government says looking at the figures, it seems all the previous records of people thronging the garden will be broken. The travel agents in the valley say that all five- and four-star hotels and properties are fully booked for next two months. Even the mid-range hotels are booked till June. &nbsp; &nbsp;

''Tulip Garden was opened recently, and we have had a good season. It started from January and continued through February. All our hotels and houseboats are completely booked, and bookings have been made for the next two months. Kashmir is completely sold out. We have a good flow of tourists now and till June, everything in the valley is booked and we are sure all previous records will be broken,'' said Waseem Gousani, travel agent. &nbsp; &nbsp;

Spring is one of the most beautiful times to visit the valley. The Jammu and Kashmir tourism department organised many spring festivals to attract more and more tourists and prolong the spring season. This year, the department hasn't confined the spring season only for tulips but other gardens as well. &nbsp; &nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Indian wedding season: 4 million weddings, Rs 5 trillion business

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The tourists from across the country are enjoying these beautiful gardens and hill stations of the Kashmir Valley. &nbsp; &nbsp;

''It's very nice and different. People scare you a lot but it's very safe because of the Indian army. It's very secure, I can see a lot of tourists coming here. It's fun. I found a lot of people in Gulmarg. Post covid tourism has increased everywhere. I want to tell everyone to pack your bag and come,'' said Sheryl Louis, a tourist. &nbsp; &nbsp;

The tourists present in the valley said that they are happy to see Kashmir tourism flourishing after so many years. ''It's a beautiful place and I wish many people would come here. It's really a paradise and we only used to see this on TV and Bollywood films. It's worth visiting and experiencing it yourself. It will help local people and they will earn their livelihood. Locals will get a lot of business. Due to covid, they must have lost a lot of business and now, they are recovering. It's like nature is calling us. We have seen people from across India visiting here. We are happy over here and it was fun,'' said Asumita Louis, another tourist. &nbsp; &nbsp;

''It's a dream come true and it's very beautiful. There was no fear. Every place here is beautiful. There is so much tourist rush, we had to be in a queue at Gondola Gulmarg for more than one and a half hours. We went to Pahalgam and Gulmarg. Everyone needs to come here and experience this,'' said Jyoti Mehrotra, another tourist. &nbsp; &nbsp;

The tourist inflow has surprised all the officials, who work with the tourism department. Officials working at the gardens of Srinagar say that they have never seen such a rush. &nbsp; &nbsp;

''This year, all records have been broken. Last Saturday, we saw a huge number of tourists, around 10,000 people visited us that day. Due to Ramadan, we can see locals aren't coming in huge numbers but tourists in huge numbers are still coming. Everyday around 3,000 tourists come to this garden,'' said Khurshid Ahmad, official, Nishat Garden.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The government hopes, the numbers will increase more in the coming months.

Kashmir Valley has broken all the previous records of tourist arrivals in the last three months. The valley saw more than 3,40,000 tourist arrivals in the months of January, February and March.

Kashmir Valley has broken all the previous records of tourist arrivals in the last three months. The valley saw more than 3,40,000 tourist arrivals in the months of January, February and March. The March month saw the maximum tourist arrivals of 1,80,000 tourists. After years, such a huge number of tourist arrivals have been witnessed in the Kashmir Valley. The tourist rush pushed the government to increase the number of flights running at Srinagar Airport. Around 92 flights operate daily from Srinagar airport with the passengers numbering around 15,000. In the last seven days of April, 58,000 tourists have come to the valley. The Tulip Garden was opened in the last week of March and on April 2, more than 50,000 people thronged the garden. Also Read | India: From April 10, all adults eligible for booster doses of COVID vaccine ''We had around 60,000 tourists coming in the month of January. In February, it went up to 1,00,000 and in March, we had a record-breaking number of 1,80,000 tourists coming to this place. In the last 7 days of April, we have already had 58,000 tourist arrivals. Around 8,000 arrivals are happening per day. So, in the last three months, it has crossed the 3,00,000 number. It's very encouraging to see our efforts yielding results. We expect more tourists to come in future,'' said Ahsan Ul Haq, Deputy Director, Tourism. Around 3,00,000 tourists have visited the Tulip Garden so far. The government says looking at the figures, it seems all the previous records of people thronging the garden will be broken. The travel agents in the valley say that all five- and four-star hotels and properties are fully booked for next two months. Even the mid-range hotels are booked till June. ''Tulip Garden was opened recently, and we have had a good season. It started from January and continued through February. All our hotels and houseboats are completely booked, and bookings have been made for the next two months. Kashmir is completely sold out. We have a good flow of tourists now and till June, everything in the valley is booked and we are sure all previous records will be broken,'' said Waseem Gousani, travel agent. Spring is one of the most beautiful times to visit the valley. The Jammu and Kashmir tourism department organised many spring festivals to attract more and more tourists and prolong the spring season. This year, the department hasn't confined the spring season only for tulips but other gardens as well. Watch: Indian wedding season: 4 million weddings, Rs 5 trillion business × The tourists from across the country are enjoying these beautiful gardens and hill stations of the Kashmir Valley. ''It's very nice and different. People scare you a lot but it's very safe because of the Indian army. It's very secure, I can see a lot of tourists coming here. It's fun. I found a lot of people in Gulmarg. Post covid tourism has increased everywhere. I want to tell everyone to pack your bag and come,'' said Sheryl Louis, a tourist. The tourists present in the valley said that they are happy to see Kashmir tourism flourishing after so many years. ''It's a beautiful place and I wish many people would come here. It's really a paradise and we only used to see this on TV and Bollywood films. It's worth visiting and experiencing it yourself. It will help local people and they will earn their livelihood. Locals will get a lot of business. Due to covid, they must have lost a lot of business and now, they are recovering. It's like nature is calling us. We have seen people from across India visiting here. We are happy over here and it was fun,'' said Asumita Louis, another tourist. ''It's a dream come true and it's very beautiful. There was no fear. Every place here is beautiful. There is so much tourist rush, we had to be in a queue at Gondola Gulmarg for more than one and a half hours. We went to Pahalgam and Gulmarg. Everyone needs to come here and experience this,'' said Jyoti Mehrotra, another tourist. The tourist inflow has surprised all the officials, who work with the tourism department. Officials working at the gardens of Srinagar say that they have never seen such a rush. ''This year, all records have been broken. Last Saturday, we saw a huge number of tourists, around 10,000 people visited us that day. Due to Ramadan, we can see locals aren't coming in huge numbers but tourists in huge numbers are still coming. Everyday around 3,000 tourists come to this garden,'' said Khurshid Ahmad, official, Nishat Garden. The government hopes, the numbers will increase more in the coming months.

Tourism in Kashmir breaks all records as 3,40,000 visitors throng valley in 3 months 

'Shakuntala', a satellite built in India by an Indian start-up Pixxel, was recently launched into orbit by Elon Musk's SpaceX. This launch occurred on a foreign rocket. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The satellite, which weighed 15kg, was designed and built in India. It was tested at various foreign facilities, amid the COVID-19 lockdown. However, the next satellite made by Pixxel, has already been tested at an ISRO facility and is awaiting to be launched through ISRO's PSLV rocket. &nbsp;

Notably, the testing of the satellite at an ISRO lab was made possible as a part of the Space Sector Reforms that the Indian Government has rolled out since mid-2020. As a part of these reforms, Indian companies could seek ISRO's technical assistance while designing and developing rockets and satellites and also test their hardware at ISRO facilities for a nominal cost. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/a-new-beginning-first-private-astronauts-mission-to-head-for-iss-on-april-8-469079" hreflang="en">A new beginning? First private astronauts’ mission to ISS set for launch on April 8</a>

According to Awais Ahmed, CEO and Founder, Pixxel, their maiden satellite 'Shakuntala' made use of foreign facilities, whereas 'Anand' and other satellites that are in the pipeline are to be built and tested in India. &nbsp;&nbsp;

"In terms of components, we are currently using 60% Indian and 40% foreign components. Our imports mainly consist the solar panels, batteries and reaction wheels. Anand (to be launched) was tested at ISRO's UR Rao Satellite Centre in Bengaluru and is awaiting launch from India's spaceport in Sriharikota. Testing it at ISRO facilities helps us save on costs and the burden of having to go abroad for testing or even setting up a test facility," he said. &nbsp;

Pixxel's maiden satellite was to be launched on ISRO's PSLV rocket, but that did not materialise owing to the pandemic and the impact it had on India's launch activity. The possibility of launching on-board the SpaceX Transporter rideshare mission was then considered by the start-up. While Pixxel's next satellite is to be launched through ISRO's PSLV rocket. &nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Future of the aviation sector: First of its kind electric aircraft certified for training

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However, a major factor that companies look into while launching their satellites are also the per kg launch cost. While ISRO is understood to charge around $25,000 per kg of payload on its PSLV rocket, SpaceX is understood to charge barely $5000 per kg of payload on its Falcon 9 rocket. With India expected to launch a low-cost, easy-to-build, 500 kg payload class Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV), it is expected that the per kg launch cost would reduce to a certain extent, thus making it an attractive option for customers. While SpaceX offers low cost per kg, it is notable they do not often have rideshare missions to accommodate smaller satellites, even on a commercial basis. In comparison, ISRO managed to accommodate co-passenger satellites in almost all of its PSLV launches. &nbsp;

Having received $25 million in funding, Pixxel is confident that they would be able to launch their first constellation of two technology demonstrator and six fully commercial satellites, which comprise the first phase. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The start-up hopes to have a constellation of 20 hyperspectral imaging satellites in orbit by early 2024. "With the kind of infrastructure and experience available in India in the space domain, a lot of global investors are looking towards India. The important part is for the space start-ups to sustain themselves by earning revenue from providing their services to customers," Awais added.&nbsp;

'Shakuntala', a satellite built in India by an Indian start-up Pixxel, was recently launched into orbit by Elon Musk's SpaceX. This launch occurred on a foreign rocket.

'Shakuntala', a satellite built in India by an Indian start-up Pixxel, was recently launched into orbit by Elon Musk's SpaceX. This launch occurred on a foreign rocket. The satellite, which weighed 15kg, was designed and built in India. It was tested at various foreign facilities, amid the COVID-19 lockdown. However, the next satellite made by Pixxel, has already been tested at an ISRO facility and is awaiting to be launched through ISRO's PSLV rocket. Notably, the testing of the satellite at an ISRO lab was made possible as a part of the Space Sector Reforms that the Indian Government has rolled out since mid-2020. As a part of these reforms, Indian companies could seek ISRO's technical assistance while designing and developing rockets and satellites and also test their hardware at ISRO facilities for a nominal cost. Also Read: A new beginning? First private astronauts’ mission to ISS set for launch on April 8 According to Awais Ahmed, CEO and Founder, Pixxel, their maiden satellite 'Shakuntala' made use of foreign facilities, whereas 'Anand' and other satellites that are in the pipeline are to be built and tested in India. "In terms of components, we are currently using 60% Indian and 40% foreign components. Our imports mainly consist the solar panels, batteries and reaction wheels. Anand (to be launched) was tested at ISRO's UR Rao Satellite Centre in Bengaluru and is awaiting launch from India's spaceport in Sriharikota. Testing it at ISRO facilities helps us save on costs and the burden of having to go abroad for testing or even setting up a test facility," he said. Pixxel's maiden satellite was to be launched on ISRO's PSLV rocket, but that did not materialise owing to the pandemic and the impact it had on India's launch activity. The possibility of launching on-board the SpaceX Transporter rideshare mission was then considered by the start-up. While Pixxel's next satellite is to be launched through ISRO's PSLV rocket. Watch: Future of the aviation sector: First of its kind electric aircraft certified for training × However, a major factor that companies look into while launching their satellites are also the per kg launch cost. While ISRO is understood to charge around $25,000 per kg of payload on its PSLV rocket, SpaceX is understood to charge barely $5000 per kg of payload on its Falcon 9 rocket. With India expected to launch a low-cost, easy-to-build, 500 kg payload class Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV), it is expected that the per kg launch cost would reduce to a certain extent, thus making it an attractive option for customers. While SpaceX offers low cost per kg, it is notable they do not often have rideshare missions to accommodate smaller satellites, even on a commercial basis. In comparison, ISRO managed to accommodate co-passenger satellites in almost all of its PSLV launches. Having received $25 million in funding, Pixxel is confident that they would be able to launch their first constellation of two technology demonstrator and six fully commercial satellites, which comprise the first phase. The start-up hopes to have a constellation of 20 hyperspectral imaging satellites in orbit by early 2024. "With the kind of infrastructure and experience available in India in the space domain, a lot of global investors are looking towards India. The important part is for the space start-ups to sustain themselves by earning revenue from providing their services to customers," Awais added.

Indian start-up's satellite gets tested at ISRO facility, awaits launch through PSLV rocket  

According to the Bengaluru police, six schools on the outskirts of the Indian city received bomb threats on Friday.

The buildings were then cleared, and police, together with bomb disposal and dog squads, went to the schools to conduct search operations.

The bomb threats were discovered on the schools' official email addresses.

The threats were initially directed at Ebenezer International School, which is located inside the Hebbagodi police station limits, and Vincent Pallotti International School, which is located within the Hennur police station limits.&nbsp;

According to police sources, the threat was also issued to Gopalan Public School in Mahadevapura, Delhi Public School in Varthur, New Academy School in Marathahalli, and The Indian Public School in Govindapura.

One of the threat messages read: "A powerful bomb has been planted in your school, attention it is not a joke, this is not joke, a very powerful bomb has been planted in your school, immediately call the police and sappers, hundreds of lives may suffer, including yours, do not delay, now everything is only in your hands!" The email was forwarded from 'barons.masarfm@gmail.com'.

Tension prevailed in the area as parents rushed to the schools.

Bengaluru Police Commissioner Kamal Pant said the police department took the appropriate steps in response to the bomb threats and that the situation is now under control.

The bomb threats have prompted police to launch an inquiry.

The event has caused concern among parents as the state's SSLC (Class 10) exams begin.

Additional Commissioner (West) A. Subramanyeshwara Rao said that "99 per cent of bomb threats like these turn out to be hoax later and there was no need for parents and students to get panicky. Search operations were being conducted in the premises of the schools without disturbing the ongoing examinations."

(With inputs from agencies)

According to the Bengaluru police, six schools on the outskirts of the Indian city received bomb threats on Friday. The buildings were then cleared, and police, together with bomb disposal and dog squads, went to the schools to conduct search operations.

According to the Bengaluru police, six schools on the outskirts of the Indian city received bomb threats on Friday. The buildings were then cleared, and police, together with bomb disposal and dog squads, went to the schools to conduct search operations. The bomb threats were discovered on the schools' official email addresses. The threats were initially directed at Ebenezer International School, which is located inside the Hebbagodi police station limits, and Vincent Pallotti International School, which is located within the Hennur police station limits. According to police sources, the threat was also issued to Gopalan Public School in Mahadevapura, Delhi Public School in Varthur, New Academy School in Marathahalli, and The Indian Public School in Govindapura. One of the threat messages read: "A powerful bomb has been planted in your school, attention it is not a joke, this is not joke, a very powerful bomb has been planted in your school, immediately call the police and sappers, hundreds of lives may suffer, including yours, do not delay, now everything is only in your hands!" The email was forwarded from 'barons.masarfm@gmail.com'. Tension prevailed in the area as parents rushed to the schools. Bengaluru Police Commissioner Kamal Pant said the police department took the appropriate steps in response to the bomb threats and that the situation is now under control. The bomb threats have prompted police to launch an inquiry. The event has caused concern among parents as the state's SSLC (Class 10) exams begin. Additional Commissioner (West) A. Subramanyeshwara Rao said that "99 per cent of bomb threats like these turn out to be hoax later and there was no need for parents and students to get panicky. Search operations were being conducted in the premises of the schools without disturbing the ongoing examinations." (With inputs from agencies)

Several Bengaluru schools get bomb threat mail, police on the job

The Indian Ministry of Health and Family Welfare announced on Friday that prophylactic doses (booster doses) of the COVID-19 vaccine will be available for all adults starting on Sunday, April 10, at private vaccination centres.&nbsp;

All those who are over 18 years of age and have completed 9 months after the administration of the second dose, will be eligible for a precaution dose. The government said in a release that this facility would be available in all private vaccination centres.&nbsp;

The ministry also stated that the ongoing "free vaccination programme" at government vaccination centres, which includes vaccinating eligible people with the first and second doses of vaccines, as well as providing precaution doses to healthcare workers, frontline workers, and senior citizens (those over 60 years old), would be continued and accelerated.&nbsp;

The third dose will be the same as the second dose, so those who had Covaxin will receive Covaxin, and those who had Covishield will receive a Covishield third dose.&nbsp;

According to the Union Health Ministry, around 96 percent of people over the age of 15 have gotten at least one COVID-19 vaccine shot, with approximately 83 percent receiving both doses.

Watch | India approves 2 more COVID-19 vaccines and an anti-covid pill Molnupiravir

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According to the report, more than 24 million prophylactic doses have been given to healthcare staff, frontline workers, and people over the age of 60, according to the report.

In addition, 45 percent of the population aged 12 to 14 received the first dose. 
 
Watch | India to vaccinate 12-14 year old against COVID-19

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(With inputs from agencies)

The Indian Ministry of Health and Family Welfare announced on Friday that prophylactic doses (booster doses) of the COVID-19 vaccine will be available for all adults starting on Sunday, April 10, at private vaccination centres.

The Indian Ministry of Health and Family Welfare announced on Friday that prophylactic doses (booster doses) of the COVID-19 vaccine will be available for all adults starting on Sunday, April 10, at private vaccination centres. All those who are over 18 years of age and have completed 9 months after the administration of the second dose, will be eligible for a precaution dose. The government said in a release that this facility would be available in all private vaccination centres. The ministry also stated that the ongoing "free vaccination programme" at government vaccination centres, which includes vaccinating eligible people with the first and second doses of vaccines, as well as providing precaution doses to healthcare workers, frontline workers, and senior citizens (those over 60 years old), would be continued and accelerated. The third dose will be the same as the second dose, so those who had Covaxin will receive Covaxin, and those who had Covishield will receive a Covishield third dose. According to the Union Health Ministry, around 96 percent of people over the age of 15 have gotten at least one COVID-19 vaccine shot, with approximately 83 percent receiving both doses. Watch | India approves 2 more COVID-19 vaccines and an anti-covid pill Molnupiravir According to the report, more than 24 million prophylactic doses have been given to healthcare staff, frontline workers, and people over the age of 60, according to the report. In addition, 45 percent of the population aged 12 to 14 received the first dose. Watch | India to vaccinate 12-14 year old against COVID-19 (With inputs from agencies)

India: From April 10, all above 18 years eligible for booster doses of COVID-19 vaccine

Key infrastructure in Indian coastal cities may submerge by 2050 as per a new analysis by RMSI, a global risk management firm. These cities include Mumbai, Chennai, Kochi, Vishakhapatnam, Thiruvanathapuram, and Mangalore.

Haji Ali mosque, Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust, Western Expressway, Bandra-Worli Sea-link, and Queen's necklace on Marine Drive are the critical properties and road networks that are facing the risk of submergence in Mumbai alone.

The findings of the analysis have been published in the report titled ''Climate Change 2021: The Physical Science Basis.''

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Experts at RMSI used a coastal flood model to map the inundations levels based on various sea-level rise forecasts after creating a high-resolution digital terrain model (topography).

Earlier, the UN's Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) had predicted a significant level of sea-rise in India. Meanwhile, a report by the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) the north Indian Ocean will rise by approximately 300 mm (a foot).

According to Roxy Mathew Koll, climate scientist, Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology, ''While we talk about sea-level rise, that is not the only factor that can inundate coastal cities. At 1°C global change, coastal regions are already facing the brunt of climate change with increasing intense cyclones, storm surges, and heavy rainfall events that lead to coastal flooding.''

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/many-indian-cities-including-mumbai-will-likely-be-underwater-by-2100-nasa-404449">Also read |&nbsp;Many Indian cities including Mumbai will likely be underwater by 2100: NASA</a>

&nbsp;''While cyclones on the west coast have increased by 52 per cent&nbsp;over the last four decades, extreme rains causing floods have seen a threefold rise since the 1950s. By 2050, the global temperature change will be close to 2°C, and these cyclones and heavy rains are projected to intensify further, putting the coastal cities in danger.''

''The accelerated sea-level rise can compound coastal flooding due to these events, raising the water level and resulting in floods that cover larger areas for longer times. We need to urgently monitor and study these compound events (where multiple extremes overlap) so that we can prepare our early warning systems for efficient disaster management,'' he added.

Pushpendra Johari, senior VP, Sustainability, RMSI Pvt Ltd said, ''How much water will go inland is a function of what kind of continental shelf we have. The impact of sea level rise will be different in different parts. No client asked us to do these modelling studies. Because the IPCC report suggested Indian coastal cities could be in danger, we felt we should quantify these findings.''

''We intend to reach out to affected state governments and we will definitely share the findings with the World Bank and National Disaster Management Authority.''

“We considered RCP 4.5 which is an intermediate scenario. Sea level is expected to rose at least 2050 and then stabilise,” he added.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Key infrastructure in Indian coastal cities may submerge by 2050 as per a new analysis by RMSI, a global risk management firm. These cities include Mumbai, Chennai, Kochi, Vishakhapatnam, Thiruvanathapuram, and Mangalore.

Key infrastructure in Indian coastal cities may submerge by 2050 as per a new analysis by RMSI, a global risk management firm. These cities include Mumbai, Chennai, Kochi, Vishakhapatnam, Thiruvanathapuram, and Mangalore. Haji Ali mosque, Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust, Western Expressway, Bandra-Worli Sea-link, and Queen's necklace on Marine Drive are the critical properties and road networks that are facing the risk of submergence in Mumbai alone. The findings of the analysis have been published in the report titled ''Climate Change 2021: The Physical Science Basis.'' Experts at RMSI used a coastal flood model to map the inundations levels based on various sea-level rise forecasts after creating a high-resolution digital terrain model (topography). Earlier, the UN's Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) had predicted a significant level of sea-rise in India. Meanwhile, a report by the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) the north Indian Ocean will rise by approximately 300 mm (a foot). According to Roxy Mathew Koll, climate scientist, Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology, ''While we talk about sea-level rise, that is not the only factor that can inundate coastal cities. At 1°C global change, coastal regions are already facing the brunt of climate change with increasing intense cyclones, storm surges, and heavy rainfall events that lead to coastal flooding.'' Also read | Many Indian cities including Mumbai will likely be underwater by 2100: NASA ''While cyclones on the west coast have increased by 52 per cent over the last four decades, extreme rains causing floods have seen a threefold rise since the 1950s. By 2050, the global temperature change will be close to 2°C, and these cyclones and heavy rains are projected to intensify further, putting the coastal cities in danger.'' ''The accelerated sea-level rise can compound coastal flooding due to these events, raising the water level and resulting in floods that cover larger areas for longer times. We need to urgently monitor and study these compound events (where multiple extremes overlap) so that we can prepare our early warning systems for efficient disaster management,'' he added. Pushpendra Johari, senior VP, Sustainability, RMSI Pvt Ltd said, ''How much water will go inland is a function of what kind of continental shelf we have. The impact of sea level rise will be different in different parts. No client asked us to do these modelling studies. Because the IPCC report suggested Indian coastal cities could be in danger, we felt we should quantify these findings.'' ''We intend to reach out to affected state governments and we will definitely share the findings with the World Bank and National Disaster Management Authority.'' “We considered RCP 4.5 which is an intermediate scenario. Sea level is expected to rose at least 2050 and then stabilise,” he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Key infrastructure in Indian coastal cities may submerge by 2050

India logged 1,109 new coronavirus infections taking the total tally of COVID-19 cases to 4,30,33,067, while the active cases dipped to 11,492, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Friday.

The death toll climbed to 5,21,573 with 43 fresh fatalities, the data updated at 8 am stated.

The active cases comprise 0.03 per cent of the total infections, while the national COVID-19 recovery rate remained at 98.76 per cent, the ministry said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-covid-xe-variant-in-india-yet-government-clarifies-469066">No Covid XE variant in India yet, government clarifies</a>

A reduction of 147 cases has been recorded in the active COVID-19 caseload in a span of 24 hours.

The daily positivity rate was recorded as 0.24 per cent and the weekly positivity rate as 0.23 per cent, according to the ministry.

The number of people who have recuperated from the disease surged to 4,25,00,002, while the case fatality rate was recorded at 1.21 per cent.

The cumulative doses administered in the country so far under the nationwide COVID-19 vaccination drive has exceeded 185.38 crore.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: India abstains despite Russia's warning

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India's COVID-19 tally had crossed the 20-lakh mark on August 7, 2020, 30 lakh on August 23, 40 lakh on September 5 and 50 lakh on September 16. It went past 60 lakh on September 28, 70 lakh on October 11, crossed 80 lakh on October 29, 90 lakh on November 20 and surpassed the one-crore mark on December 19. The country crossed the grim milestone of two crores on May 4 and three crores on June 23 last year.

The 43 new fatalities include 36 from Kerala.

A total of 5,21,573 deaths have been reported so far in the country including 1,47,806 from Maharashtra, 68,264 from Kerala, and 40,056 from Karnataka, 38,025 from Tamil Nadu, 26,155 from Delhi, 23,498 from Uttar Pradesh and 21,200 from West Bengal.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/till-further-notice-tata-group-owned-air-india-suspends-non-stop-flights-to-russia-469222">Till further notice, Tata Group-owned Air India suspends non-stop flights to Russia &nbsp;</a>

The ministry stressed that more than 70 per cent of the deaths occurred due to comorbidities.

"Our figures are being reconciled with the Indian Council of Medical Research," the ministry said on its website, adding that the state-wise distribution of figures is subject to further verification and reconciliation.

India logged 1,109 new coronavirus infections taking the total tally of COVID-19 cases to 4,30,33,067, while the active cases dipped to 11,492, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Friday.

India logged 1,109 new coronavirus infections taking the total tally of COVID-19 cases to 4,30,33,067, while the active cases dipped to 11,492, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Friday. The death toll climbed to 5,21,573 with 43 fresh fatalities, the data updated at 8 am stated. The active cases comprise 0.03 per cent of the total infections, while the national COVID-19 recovery rate remained at 98.76 per cent, the ministry said. Also read | No Covid XE variant in India yet, government clarifies A reduction of 147 cases has been recorded in the active COVID-19 caseload in a span of 24 hours. The daily positivity rate was recorded as 0.24 per cent and the weekly positivity rate as 0.23 per cent, according to the ministry. The number of people who have recuperated from the disease surged to 4,25,00,002, while the case fatality rate was recorded at 1.21 per cent. The cumulative doses administered in the country so far under the nationwide COVID-19 vaccination drive has exceeded 185.38 crore. Watch | Gravitas: India abstains despite Russia's warning India's COVID-19 tally had crossed the 20-lakh mark on August 7, 2020, 30 lakh on August 23, 40 lakh on September 5 and 50 lakh on September 16. It went past 60 lakh on September 28, 70 lakh on October 11, crossed 80 lakh on October 29, 90 lakh on November 20 and surpassed the one-crore mark on December 19. The country crossed the grim milestone of two crores on May 4 and three crores on June 23 last year. The 43 new fatalities include 36 from Kerala. A total of 5,21,573 deaths have been reported so far in the country including 1,47,806 from Maharashtra, 68,264 from Kerala, and 40,056 from Karnataka, 38,025 from Tamil Nadu, 26,155 from Delhi, 23,498 from Uttar Pradesh and 21,200 from West Bengal. Also read | Till further notice, Tata Group-owned Air India suspends non-stop flights to Russia The ministry stressed that more than 70 per cent of the deaths occurred due to comorbidities. "Our figures are being reconciled with the Indian Council of Medical Research," the ministry said on its website, adding that the state-wise distribution of figures is subject to further verification and reconciliation.

COVID-19: India records 1,109 new cases

Amid the economic crisis in Sri Lanka, Indian High commissioner to the country Gopal Baglay has said he doesn't see "a situation of refugees or exodus".

The country has seen economic turmoil that has led to political instability with the cabinet resigning last weekend.

India and Maldives are the closest neighbours of the Indian Ocean island country.

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Addressing a group of journalists virtually, HC Baglay explained, "there are few reports of few persons maybe few families reaching our eastern coast" but "fact of the matter is that there are families ties on both sides. People have relatives and families, like some cases mother and father are there and children living here, or vice versa, marriage ties or other relations like people coming to study here or going to study there . It is not surprising to see that people do seek comfort in such ties.".

Amid the crisis, since January, India has provided $2.4 billion in financial assistance to Sri Lanka. This included a credit swap of US$ 400 million, &nbsp;deferment of an Asian Clearing Union payment of over $515 million, and&nbsp;two&nbsp;lines of credits-- $1 billion for food, and $500 million for fuel.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/india-our-big-brother-grateful-to-pm-modi-sri-lankas-sanath-jayasuriya-amid-economic-crisis-469085" hreflang="en">India our big brother, grateful to PM Modi: Jayasuriya amid economic crisis</a>

The High Commissioner highlighted that "India's model of development is very demand-driven..based on the requirement of recipient country".

The first consignment of Rice from India is expected to reach Sri Lanka this weekend. First-order is 40,000 MT of rice, and the consignment is under the $1 billion line of credit signed last month in Delhi.

The High commissioner said, "India has come forward with humanitarian assistance to Sri Lanka. It is India's closest maritime neighbour" and&nbsp;Delhi's ties with "Sri Lanka are the confluence of thee factors: Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, doctrine of Sagar and Neighbourhood First"

In the almost 20 minute long presser, the envoy also dismissed social media reports of the Indian army being sent to the country terming it "baseless".

Asked about some countries being responsible for current situation in the Indian Ocean Island country, Baglay said,"Can't comment on Sri Lanka's ties with other countries..Sri Lanka has to see how ties with countries impact them" even as he pointed to New Delhi's positive role. China-led debt crisis in Sri Lanka has been grabbing headlines for months now.

Amid the economic crisis in Sri Lanka, Indian High commissioner to the country Gopal Baglay has said he doesn't see "a situation of refugees or exodus". The country has seen economic turmoil that has led to political instability with the cabinet resigning last weekend.

Amid the economic crisis in Sri Lanka, Indian High commissioner to the country Gopal Baglay has said he doesn't see "a situation of refugees or exodus". The country has seen economic turmoil that has led to political instability with the cabinet resigning last weekend. India and Maldives are the closest neighbours of the Indian Ocean island country. Addressing a group of journalists virtually, HC Baglay explained, "there are few reports of few persons maybe few families reaching our eastern coast" but "fact of the matter is that there are families ties on both sides. People have relatives and families, like some cases mother and father are there and children living here, or vice versa, marriage ties or other relations like people coming to study here or going to study there . It is not surprising to see that people do seek comfort in such ties.". Amid the crisis, since January, India has provided $2.4 billion in financial assistance to Sri Lanka. This included a credit swap of US$ 400 million, deferment of an Asian Clearing Union payment of over $515 million, and two lines of credits-- $1 billion for food, and $500 million for fuel. Also read | India our big brother, grateful to PM Modi: Jayasuriya amid economic crisis The High Commissioner highlighted that "India's model of development is very demand-driven..based on the requirement of recipient country". The first consignment of Rice from India is expected to reach Sri Lanka this weekend. First-order is 40,000 MT of rice, and the consignment is under the $1 billion line of credit signed last month in Delhi. The High commissioner said, "India has come forward with humanitarian assistance to Sri Lanka. It is India's closest maritime neighbour" and Delhi's ties with "Sri Lanka are the confluence of thee factors: Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, doctrine of Sagar and Neighbourhood First" In the almost 20 minute long presser, the envoy also dismissed social media reports of the Indian army being sent to the country terming it "baseless". Asked about some countries being responsible for current situation in the Indian Ocean Island country, Baglay said,"Can't comment on Sri Lanka's ties with other countries..Sri Lanka has to see how ties with countries impact them" even as he pointed to New Delhi's positive role. China-led debt crisis in Sri Lanka has been grabbing headlines for months now.

Don't see refugees arising out of crisis, India's High Commissioner of Sri Lanka Gopal Baglay

The Deputy Speaker of the Tibetan Parliament in exile Mrs Dolma Tsering Teykhang has met over 30 Indian Parliamentarians or MPs and Taiwan's ambassador to India in a high-level engagement starting 4th April. The meeting comes days after Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi was on India visit. Speaking to our Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Mrs Dolma Tsering said focus of her visit was to ,"appraise them about the critical human rights situation inside Tibet and other thing is culture and religion situation in Tibet is getting extinct in its birthplace" and also "environment situation inside the Tibetan plateau". The top Tibetan official had met MPs from all major national parties of India--BJP, AAP and Congress with large number of MPs from India's north east. The last Tibetan Parliament in exile delegation visited Delhi in December. During that visit, the delegation had met Indian MPs riling up the Chinese embassy which had sent strongly worded letter over the development. New Delhi had then asked embassy to behave and that such letters are inappropriate. On her meeting with Taiwan envoy, Deputy Speaker of the Tibetan Parliament in exile said, "We had a great exchange of views how best we have the exchange of students, how best we can make the Taiwanese people interact with the Tibetan people, so that people to people relation is built and friendship is flourished. " During Delhi meet, she met, Kiren Rijiju who is the convener of north eastern Parliamentarians, Dr Rajkumar Ranjan singh who is also minister of state in Ministry of external affairs. She slammed the recent visit of Chinese FM, explaining, "visit was just kind of a drama to show, you can do business but we can talk about the border later on."

Days after Chinese FM visit, top Tibetan official meets Indian MPs, Taiwan envoy in Delhi

Nearly 4 million weddings to be solemnised from April-July period in India. After past two summer seasons were hit by pandemic-related curbs. As per estimates, 5 lakh weddings will spend an average of Rs 200,000 on the event. The next three months will be critical for the wedding ecosystem in India.

Indian wedding season: 4 million weddings, Rs 5 trillion business

From April 1, 2022, Tata Group-owned Air India has suspended its Delhi-Moscow non-stop flight. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Earlier, the flight used to run twice a week. Now, there will be no direct connectivity between India and Russia, said an ANI report quoting sources. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-nations-suspends-russia-from-human-rights-body-over-ukraine-469196">Over reports of abuses in Ukraine, UNGA suspends Russia from human rights body</a>

In a Facebook post, Russian Embassy in India, said, "Dear fellow citizens. Please note that Air India has stopped selling tickets on the Delhi-Moscow-Delhi route. The prospects for the resumption of flights remain uncertain at the moment." &nbsp;&nbsp;

The funds for tickets, which were purchased earlier, for the cancelled flights will be returned to passengers in full, as per the Air India office. &nbsp;

The reason for the suspension of the flight is not known yet. &nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;India's neutrality on test at United Nations General Assembly

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"In connection with the abolition by the Government of India restrictions on international air traffic, it is possible to freely use transit routes to Russia through Tashkent, Istanbul, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Doha and other available destinations," the statement read. &nbsp;

Explaining India's stand in the Russia-Ukraine conflict in the Lok Sabha, Union Minister for External Affairs S Jaishankar on Wednesday, said, "In terms of diplomacy, India continues to press forcefully for an immediate cessation of hostilities and an end to violence. We encourage talks between Ukraine and Russia, including at the level of their Presidents. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has spoken to both of them in this regard." &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

From April 1, 2022, Tata Group-owned Air India has suspended its Delhi-Moscow non-stop flight. Earlier, the flight used to run twice a week. Now, there will be no direct connectivity between India and Russia, said an ANI report quoting sources.

From April 1, 2022, Tata Group-owned Air India has suspended its Delhi-Moscow non-stop flight. Earlier, the flight used to run twice a week. Now, there will be no direct connectivity between India and Russia, said an ANI report quoting sources. Also Read: Over reports of abuses in Ukraine, UNGA suspends Russia from human rights body In a Facebook post, Russian Embassy in India, said, "Dear fellow citizens. Please note that Air India has stopped selling tickets on the Delhi-Moscow-Delhi route. The prospects for the resumption of flights remain uncertain at the moment." The funds for tickets, which were purchased earlier, for the cancelled flights will be returned to passengers in full, as per the Air India office. The reason for the suspension of the flight is not known yet. Watch: India's neutrality on test at United Nations General Assembly × "In connection with the abolition by the Government of India restrictions on international air traffic, it is possible to freely use transit routes to Russia through Tashkent, Istanbul, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Doha and other available destinations," the statement read. Explaining India's stand in the Russia-Ukraine conflict in the Lok Sabha, Union Minister for External Affairs S Jaishankar on Wednesday, said, "In terms of diplomacy, India continues to press forcefully for an immediate cessation of hostilities and an end to violence. We encourage talks between Ukraine and Russia, including at the level of their Presidents. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has spoken to both of them in this regard." (With inputs from agencies)

Till further notice, Tata Group-owned Air India suspends non-stop flights to Russia  

India's state-run Hindustan Aeronautics Limited(HAL) has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding with Israel Aerospace Industries(IAI) to convert passenger aircraft into Multi Mission Tanker Transport aircraft, in India.&nbsp;

Under this pact which is aimed at boosting the Make-in-India initiative, HAL will convert pre-owned passenger aircraft into aerial refuelling tankers with cargo and transport capabilities. This will provide India's defence ecosystem with new capabilities and cost-effective solutions.&nbsp;

Aerial refuelling tankers are crucial in extending the range of fighters and other aircraft, as the latter can carry on with their mission, without having to land and make a refuelling stop.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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India's <a href="https://twitter.com/HALHQBLR?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HALHQBLR</a> &amp; Israel's <a href="https://twitter.com/ILAerospaceIAI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ILAerospaceIAI</a> sign MoU to convert used <a href="https://twitter.com/BoeingAirplanes?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BoeingAirplanes</a> 767 into Multi Mission Tanker transport, as part of Make-in-India 
IAI has converted 250+ civil aircraft for strategic use 
 
Air-air refueling tankers extend range of fighters,othr Ac 
(IAI pic) <a href="https://t.co/TG17MbgQu2">pic.twitter.com/TG17MbgQu2</a>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1511674320908562433?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 6, 2022</a></blockquote>
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A formal Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in this regard was signed in Delhi by Mr D. Maiti, CEO (MiG Complex), HAL and Mr Yaacov Berkovitz, VP &amp; GM Aviation Group, IAI in the presence of Mr Chandraker Bharati, JS (Aero), MoD.&nbsp;

“We are glad to join hands with our long-standing partner IAI in this venture of MMTT conversion business which is one of the strategic diversification avenues identified by HAL”, says Mr R. Madhavan, CMD, HAL. 
&nbsp; 
Boaz Levy, President IAI and CEO in his message said, “We are proud to come together with our counterparts to bring our best value MMTT solution in India, while utilizing local resources to manufacture and market the platform. By collaborating with HAL and bringing conversion directly to India, we are supporting the ‘Make in India’ campaign”. 
&nbsp; 
As per the IAI, their Boeing767 conversion process converts pre-owned B767 aircraft into aerial tankers for a variety of different military missions, all with Air-to-Air refuelling capabilities.&nbsp;

Customers are offered multiple, flexible solutions to choose from, adapting the aircraft for cargo, VIP, passengers or intelligence systems, as desired. Each aircraft configuration includes a special cargo door and built-in cargo pallet capabilities, as well as passenger seats and consoles that can be rapidly installed or removed.&nbsp;

In converting passenger aircraft to Special Freighters for special missions, IAI has converted over 250 aircraft to date, many with an unbeatable safety record and high utilization rates, they added.

WATCH |&nbsp;Airbus, Qatar feud enters UK court spotlight

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&nbsp;

India's state-run Hindustan Aeronautics Limited(HAL) has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding with Israel Aerospace Industries(IAI) to convert passenger aircraft into Multi Mission Tanker Transport aircraft, in India.

India's state-run Hindustan Aeronautics Limited(HAL) has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding with Israel Aerospace Industries(IAI) to convert passenger aircraft into Multi Mission Tanker Transport aircraft, in India. Under this pact which is aimed at boosting the Make-in-India initiative, HAL will convert pre-owned passenger aircraft into aerial refuelling tankers with cargo and transport capabilities. This will provide India's defence ecosystem with new capabilities and cost-effective solutions. Aerial refuelling tankers are crucial in extending the range of fighters and other aircraft, as the latter can carry on with their mission, without having to land and make a refuelling stop. India's @HALHQBLR & Israel's @ILAerospaceIAI sign MoU to convert used @BoeingAirplanes 767 into Multi Mission Tanker transport, as part of Make-in-India IAI has converted 250+ civil aircraft for strategic use Air-air refueling tankers extend range of fighters,othr Ac (IAI pic) pic.twitter.com/TG17MbgQu2 — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) April 6, 2022 × A formal Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in this regard was signed in Delhi by Mr D. Maiti, CEO (MiG Complex), HAL and Mr Yaacov Berkovitz, VP & GM Aviation Group, IAI in the presence of Mr Chandraker Bharati, JS (Aero), MoD. “We are glad to join hands with our long-standing partner IAI in this venture of MMTT conversion business which is one of the strategic diversification avenues identified by HAL”, says Mr R. Madhavan, CMD, HAL. Boaz Levy, President IAI and CEO in his message said, “We are proud to come together with our counterparts to bring our best value MMTT solution in India, while utilizing local resources to manufacture and market the platform. By collaborating with HAL and bringing conversion directly to India, we are supporting the ‘Make in India’ campaign”. As per the IAI, their Boeing767 conversion process converts pre-owned B767 aircraft into aerial tankers for a variety of different military missions, all with Air-to-Air refuelling capabilities. Customers are offered multiple, flexible solutions to choose from, adapting the aircraft for cargo, VIP, passengers or intelligence systems, as desired. Each aircraft configuration includes a special cargo door and built-in cargo pallet capabilities, as well as passenger seats and consoles that can be rapidly installed or removed. In converting passenger aircraft to Special Freighters for special missions, IAI has converted over 250 aircraft to date, many with an unbeatable safety record and high utilization rates, they added. WATCH | Airbus, Qatar feud enters UK court spotlight ×

India and Israel to convert passenger aircraft into strategic transporters, as part of Make in India

A threat intelligence firm has claimed that China-backed state hackers have been attacking the Indian power grid system near Ladakh in recent months.

A report released by Recorded Future on Wednesday claimed that the attacks are part of China’s cyber-espionage battle against India, reports Bloomberg.

The report further stated that at least seven “load dispatch” centres located near the India-China border in Ladakh have been under Chinese surveillance for several months.

“In recent months, we observed likely network intrusions targeting at least seven Indian State Load Despatch Centres (SLDCs) responsible for carrying out real-time operations for grid control and electricity dispatch within these respective states. Notably, this targeting has been geographically concentrated, with the identified SLDCs located in North India, in proximity to the disputed India-China border in Ladakh," Recorded Future said in its report.

The firm said that the Indian government has been alerted of their findings before publishing the report.

One of the hacking groups, RedEcho, which targeted one of the load dispatch centres previously, shares a “strong overlap” with a hacking group that US has tied to the Chinese government, the report noted.

“The prolonged targeting of Indian power grid assets by Chinese state-linked groups offers limited economic espionage or traditional intelligence gathering opportunities,” the Recorded Future report states.

“We believe this is instead likely intended to enable information gathering surrounding critical infrastructure and/or pre-positioning for future activity.”

There have been concerns within the Indian establishment on the capability of the Chinese government to wage a cyber war.

This was repeatedly highlighted by the former Chief of Defence Staff late Bipin Rawat who pointed out gaps between the countries with regards to technology while adding that India has been catching up.

"We know that China is capable of launching cyberattacks on us and that it can disrupt a large amount of our systems. What we are trying to do is to create a system which would ensure cyber defence," he said in April last year.

He said the aim has been to create firewalls to deal with the cyberattacks and that the issue is being addressed in a "serious way".

(With inputs from agencies)

A threat intelligence firm has claimed that China-backed state hackers have been attacking the Indian power grid system near Ladakh in recent months. A report released by Recorded Future on Wednesday claimed that the attacks are part of China’s cyber-espionage battle against India, reports Bloomberg.

A threat intelligence firm has claimed that China-backed state hackers have been attacking the Indian power grid system near Ladakh in recent months. A report released by Recorded Future on Wednesday claimed that the attacks are part of China’s cyber-espionage battle against India, reports Bloomberg. The report further stated that at least seven “load dispatch” centres located near the India-China border in Ladakh have been under Chinese surveillance for several months. “In recent months, we observed likely network intrusions targeting at least seven Indian State Load Despatch Centres (SLDCs) responsible for carrying out real-time operations for grid control and electricity dispatch within these respective states. Notably, this targeting has been geographically concentrated, with the identified SLDCs located in North India, in proximity to the disputed India-China border in Ladakh," Recorded Future said in its report. The firm said that the Indian government has been alerted of their findings before publishing the report. One of the hacking groups, RedEcho, which targeted one of the load dispatch centres previously, shares a “strong overlap” with a hacking group that US has tied to the Chinese government, the report noted. “The prolonged targeting of Indian power grid assets by Chinese state-linked groups offers limited economic espionage or traditional intelligence gathering opportunities,” the Recorded Future report states. “We believe this is instead likely intended to enable information gathering surrounding critical infrastructure and/or pre-positioning for future activity.” There have been concerns within the Indian establishment on the capability of the Chinese government to wage a cyber war. This was repeatedly highlighted by the former Chief of Defence Staff late Bipin Rawat who pointed out gaps between the countries with regards to technology while adding that India has been catching up. "We know that China is capable of launching cyberattacks on us and that it can disrupt a large amount of our systems. What we are trying to do is to create a system which would ensure cyber defence," he said in April last year. He said the aim has been to create firewalls to deal with the cyberattacks and that the issue is being addressed in a "serious way". (With inputs from agencies)

China-backed hackers waged cyberattacks on Indian power grid system near Ladakh: Report

The offshore wind energy test facility, which is being set up by India's National Institute of Wind Energy (NIWE) in Tamil Nadu's Dhanushkodi, is regarded as the first such project in the Asia-Pacific region. &nbsp;

Funded by the Government of India, this project is expected to come up in two years and will involve the setting up of two wind turbines of over 8MW (megawatt) capacity, in order to perform studies and collect data on the feasibility of large-scale projects of this kind. &nbsp;

Such facilities are required to test turbines for specific Indian conditions, as against European conditions, where most tests are conducted by default. Notably, wind turbines from Europe don’t perform at their optimum in India, given the difference in conditions.&nbsp;

“We will be setting up an offshore wind energy test bed and research centre at Dhanushkodi (a narrow strip of land in Tamil Nadu's Ramanathapuram District). We have got 75 acres of land allotted for the project. Generally, turbines are tested only in Europe and their wind profile is different. Testing here in Indian conditions will give us confidence to re-design the turbines for best performance in Indian conditions. In Europe, the average windspeed is around 10 meters per second, whereas it is around 7.5-9m/s in India,” Dr Balaraman Kannan, Director General, NIWE, elaborated to WION.&nbsp;

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Asia-Pacific's first-ever Offshore Wind energy test facility to come up in 2yrs, at this narrow strip of land Dhanushkodi, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TamilNadu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TamilNadu</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a> : Dir Gen, <a href="https://twitter.com/niwe_chennai?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@niwe_chennai</a> told me 
Costing Rs350cr, the 75acre facility will have 2 turbines of 8GW capacity each,enabling advanced R&amp;D,tests <a href="https://t.co/ruIK2WmEB2">pic.twitter.com/ruIK2WmEB2</a>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1512092124468023302?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 7, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Being built at a total cost of Rs 3500 million, bids for the two turbines (to be installed at the test facility) will be soon issued to original equipment manufacturers. The relevant agencies are considering turbines that can each generate anywhere between 8-12 MW. With a coastline that spans 7,500 km and immense energy requirements, India has great potential to develop offshore and near shore wind energy projects.&nbsp;

Notably, the Government of India has made a commitment at the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP26) to combat climate change and global warming, by setting itself a target of 500 GW of renewable energy by 2030. Of this 500 GW, wind alone comprises 140 GW. However, industry body Indian Wind Turbine Manufacturers Association (IWTMA) feels that much more can be done to ramp up wind energy projects in India and to utilize the capacity and expertise of the Indian wind Power industry.&nbsp;

According to Tulsi Tanti, Chairman, IWTMA, the wind energy capacity addition during 2022-23 is expected to be about 1,500-1,600 MW and the next year it will be about 2,000-2,500 MW. Last fiscal, the total wind power capacity that was added in the country was about 883 MW. However, the generation capacity addition is very low as compared to the industry’s turbine manufacturing capacity of 10,000 MW per annum. The industry body also said that India's wind energy sector has achieved 80 percent indigenisation, in line with the 'Atmanirbhar Bharat'(self-reliant India) initiative. They also added that Tamil Nadu(which is regarded as pioneer of Wind energy in India) has an offshore wind power generation potential of 35GW and that wind power installations can come up both nearshore and offshore.&nbsp;

'Windergy India 2022’, a mega wind energy trade fair is to be held in Delhi between April 27 and 29 and is meant to enhance the wind energy eco-system by facilitating quicker migration to clean energy. The event will witness the participation of Government Officials from India, Denmark and industry representatives.&nbsp;

The offshore wind energy test facility, which is being set up by India's National Institute of Wind Energy (NIWE) in Tamil Nadu's Dhanushkodi, is regarded as the first such project in the Asia-Pacific region.

The offshore wind energy test facility, which is being set up by India's National Institute of Wind Energy (NIWE) in Tamil Nadu's Dhanushkodi, is regarded as the first such project in the Asia-Pacific region. Funded by the Government of India, this project is expected to come up in two years and will involve the setting up of two wind turbines of over 8MW (megawatt) capacity, in order to perform studies and collect data on the feasibility of large-scale projects of this kind. Such facilities are required to test turbines for specific Indian conditions, as against European conditions, where most tests are conducted by default. Notably, wind turbines from Europe don’t perform at their optimum in India, given the difference in conditions. “We will be setting up an offshore wind energy test bed and research centre at Dhanushkodi (a narrow strip of land in Tamil Nadu's Ramanathapuram District). We have got 75 acres of land allotted for the project. Generally, turbines are tested only in Europe and their wind profile is different. Testing here in Indian conditions will give us confidence to re-design the turbines for best performance in Indian conditions. In Europe, the average windspeed is around 10 meters per second, whereas it is around 7.5-9m/s in India,” Dr Balaraman Kannan, Director General, NIWE, elaborated to WION. Asia-Pacific's first-ever Offshore Wind energy test facility to come up in 2yrs, at this narrow strip of land Dhanushkodi, #TamilNadu #India : Dir Gen, @niwe_chennai told me Costing Rs350cr, the 75acre facility will have 2 turbines of 8GW capacity each,enabling advanced R&D,tests pic.twitter.com/ruIK2WmEB2 — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) April 7, 2022 × Being built at a total cost of Rs 3500 million, bids for the two turbines (to be installed at the test facility) will be soon issued to original equipment manufacturers. The relevant agencies are considering turbines that can each generate anywhere between 8-12 MW. With a coastline that spans 7,500 km and immense energy requirements, India has great potential to develop offshore and near shore wind energy projects. Notably, the Government of India has made a commitment at the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP26) to combat climate change and global warming, by setting itself a target of 500 GW of renewable energy by 2030. Of this 500 GW, wind alone comprises 140 GW. However, industry body Indian Wind Turbine Manufacturers Association (IWTMA) feels that much more can be done to ramp up wind energy projects in India and to utilize the capacity and expertise of the Indian wind Power industry. According to Tulsi Tanti, Chairman, IWTMA, the wind energy capacity addition during 2022-23 is expected to be about 1,500-1,600 MW and the next year it will be about 2,000-2,500 MW. Last fiscal, the total wind power capacity that was added in the country was about 883 MW. However, the generation capacity addition is very low as compared to the industry’s turbine manufacturing capacity of 10,000 MW per annum. The industry body also said that India's wind energy sector has achieved 80 percent indigenisation, in line with the 'Atmanirbhar Bharat'(self-reliant India) initiative. They also added that Tamil Nadu(which is regarded as pioneer of Wind energy in India) has an offshore wind power generation potential of 35GW and that wind power installations can come up both nearshore and offshore. 'Windergy India 2022’, a mega wind energy trade fair is to be held in Delhi between April 27 and 29 and is meant to enhance the wind energy eco-system by facilitating quicker migration to clean energy. The event will witness the participation of Government Officials from India, Denmark and industry representatives.

Asia-Pacific's first-ever offshore wind energy test facility to come up in India

Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana (PMGKAY), which provides free foodgrains to poor people, played a key role in keeping extreme poverty in India at the lowest level of 0.8 per cent during the pandemic-hit 2020, according to a working paper of the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

The working paper titled 'Pandemic, Poverty, and Inequality: Evidence from India' presents estimates of poverty and consumption inequality in India for each of the years 2004-5 through the pandemic year 2020-21.

"Extreme poverty was as low as 0.8 per cent in the pre-pandemic year 2019, and food transfers were instrumental in ensuring that it remained at that low level in the pandemic year 2020," it said.

Under PMGKAY, which was launched in March 2020, the central government provides 5 kilograms of foodgrains per month for free. The additional free grain is over and above the normal quota provided under the National Food Security Act (NFSA) at a highly subsidised rate of Rs 2-3 per kilogram. PMGKAY has been extended till September 2022.

The working paper, prepared by Surjit S Bhalla, Karan Bhasin and Arvind Virmani, said that in the pandemic year 2020-21, extreme poverty was at its lowest level ever at 0.8 per cent of the population.

"Further, as early as 2016-17, extreme poverty had reached a low 2 per cent level. According to the more appropriate but 68 per cent higher Low Middle Income (LMI) poverty line of PPP (purchasing power parity) USD 3.2 a day, poverty in India registered 14.8 per cent in the pre-pandemic year 2019-20.

"This achievement is put in perspective by noting that in 2011-12, the official poverty level for the lower PPP USD 1.9 line was 12.2 per cent," it noted.

The working paper also said that for the first time in several decades, extreme poverty -- those falling below the USD 1.9 per person per day in terms of purchasing power parity -- in the world increased in the pandemic year 2020.

As per the working paper, the pandemic support measures instituted by the government were critical in preventing any increase in the prevalence of extreme poverty and that food subsidies have reduced poverty on a consistent basis since the enactment of the FSA in 2013 and the co-incidental increase in the efficiency of targeting via Aadhaar.

Further, it said the effect of the subsidy adjustments on poverty is striking.

"Real inequality, as measured by the Gini coefficient, has declined to near its lowest level reached in the last forty years - it was 0.284 in 1993-94 and in 2020-21 it reached 0.292.

"Possibly the more surprising result from the incorporation of food subsidies into the calculation of poverty is that extreme poverty has stayed below (or equal to) 1 per cent for the last three years," it said.

Post-food subsidy inequality at 0.294 is now very close to its lowest level of 0.284 observed in 1993-94, the working paper said, adding that in 2020, for the first time since the inception of the PDS system, the government was supplying, in full, the basic food ration needed to the bottom two-thirds of the population.

The food support (rations) was increased during the pandemic - the food grain ration was doubled for each recipient from 5 kg of wheat (or rice) per month to 10 kilograms in 2020, it added.

The author of the paper noted that an important implication of their results is that extreme poverty has been virtually eliminated, and both the government of India and the World Bank should formally switch to the LMI country poverty line of USD 3.2 PPP.

They also observed that the social safety net provided by the expansion of India's food subsidy programme absorbed a major part of the pandemic shock.&nbsp;

Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana (PMGKAY), which provides free foodgrains to poor people, played a key role in keeping extreme poverty in India at the lowest level of 0.

Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana (PMGKAY), which provides free foodgrains to poor people, played a key role in keeping extreme poverty in India at the lowest level of 0.8 per cent during the pandemic-hit 2020, according to a working paper of the International Monetary Fund (IMF). The working paper titled 'Pandemic, Poverty, and Inequality: Evidence from India' presents estimates of poverty and consumption inequality in India for each of the years 2004-5 through the pandemic year 2020-21. "Extreme poverty was as low as 0.8 per cent in the pre-pandemic year 2019, and food transfers were instrumental in ensuring that it remained at that low level in the pandemic year 2020," it said. Under PMGKAY, which was launched in March 2020, the central government provides 5 kilograms of foodgrains per month for free. The additional free grain is over and above the normal quota provided under the National Food Security Act (NFSA) at a highly subsidised rate of Rs 2-3 per kilogram. PMGKAY has been extended till September 2022. The working paper, prepared by Surjit S Bhalla, Karan Bhasin and Arvind Virmani, said that in the pandemic year 2020-21, extreme poverty was at its lowest level ever at 0.8 per cent of the population. "Further, as early as 2016-17, extreme poverty had reached a low 2 per cent level. According to the more appropriate but 68 per cent higher Low Middle Income (LMI) poverty line of PPP (purchasing power parity) USD 3.2 a day, poverty in India registered 14.8 per cent in the pre-pandemic year 2019-20. "This achievement is put in perspective by noting that in 2011-12, the official poverty level for the lower PPP USD 1.9 line was 12.2 per cent," it noted. The working paper also said that for the first time in several decades, extreme poverty -- those falling below the USD 1.9 per person per day in terms of purchasing power parity -- in the world increased in the pandemic year 2020. As per the working paper, the pandemic support measures instituted by the government were critical in preventing any increase in the prevalence of extreme poverty and that food subsidies have reduced poverty on a consistent basis since the enactment of the FSA in 2013 and the co-incidental increase in the efficiency of targeting via Aadhaar. Further, it said the effect of the subsidy adjustments on poverty is striking. "Real inequality, as measured by the Gini coefficient, has declined to near its lowest level reached in the last forty years - it was 0.284 in 1993-94 and in 2020-21 it reached 0.292. "Possibly the more surprising result from the incorporation of food subsidies into the calculation of poverty is that extreme poverty has stayed below (or equal to) 1 per cent for the last three years," it said. Post-food subsidy inequality at 0.294 is now very close to its lowest level of 0.284 observed in 1993-94, the working paper said, adding that in 2020, for the first time since the inception of the PDS system, the government was supplying, in full, the basic food ration needed to the bottom two-thirds of the population. The food support (rations) was increased during the pandemic - the food grain ration was doubled for each recipient from 5 kg of wheat (or rice) per month to 10 kilograms in 2020, it added. The author of the paper noted that an important implication of their results is that extreme poverty has been virtually eliminated, and both the government of India and the World Bank should formally switch to the LMI country poverty line of USD 3.2 PPP. They also observed that the social safety net provided by the expansion of India's food subsidy programme absorbed a major part of the pandemic shock.

India's food subsidy programme kept extreme poverty low in pandemic-hit 2020: IMF working paper

Employees of India Inc may be in for a pleasant surprise as prices climb, as many companies plan to offer salary increases that exceed pre-pandemic levels at a time when there is a severe skills shortage and the economy is picking up.

According to a survey by recruiting agency Michael Page India, which covered more than 500 large, medium, and small companies across 13 main industry sectors, the average salary increase this year will be 9%, up from 7% in the pre-pandemic year of 2019.

According to the Michael Page India Salary Report 2022, startups and new-age enterprises, including unicorns and soonicorns, are likely to steal the show with an average predicted salary hike of 12 percent.&nbsp;

According to the research, growth areas include banking and financial services, real estate and construction, and manufacturing.

According to the report, due to the growth of e-commerce and other sectors experiencing digital transformation, senior-level professionals with computer science degrees will be in a strong position to bargain for some of the top paying jobs in India, according to the report.

Watch | Gravitas: Are You Happy With Your Last Salary Hike?

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According to the research, data scientists (particularly those with machine learning experience), web developers, and cloud architects will be in great demand, especially if they have a bachelor's or master's degree from a top-rated university.

It further stated that engineers are projected to earn higher average pay than professionals with identical educational backgrounds in other job areas.

The Michael Page Compensation Report 2022 is based on statistics and facts gleaned from the company's own data and network in India, including job advertisements and placements from 2021, as well as salary forecasts for 2022.&nbsp;

The report further stated that companies are now looking to retain top performers with various offers, including shorter - quarterly or half-yearly) - appraisal cycles, promotions, variable pay-outs, stock incentives, retention bonuses, and mid-term increments.

Large and traditional businesses in IT/IT-enabled services, manufacturing and engineering, healthcare and life sciences, retail, global in-house centres (GICs), fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG), and banking and financial services (BFSI) will see average increases of 8-12 percent.&nbsp;

High-performing individuals and employees with niche skills can expect above-average increments (20-25 per cent or even more on a case-by-case basis) as most organisations have become nimble to retain their top talent, the report added.

The overall mood is positive as there is a general feeling that the pandemic is behind us. The hiring market has seen an impressive rebound, with companies competing against one another to attract and hire the best talent.

"The mega boost results from rising attrition, a huge talent shortage and a dearth of in-demand skills that predominantly drive the salaries higher," Michael Page, Managing Director India Ankit Agarwala, said.

He noted that professionals with niche skills would get higher salary hikes due to a massive shortage of such talent in the market.

"Remuneration may be important, but it is not everything in talent attraction corporations that will focus on people's first strategy from leadership communication. Mental well-being and flexible opportunities will ultimately win the war of talent," he added.

(With inputs from PTI)

Employees of India Inc may be in for a pleasant surprise as prices climb, as many companies plan to offer salary increases that exceed pre-pandemic levels at a time when there is a severe skills shortage and the economy is picking up.

Employees of India Inc may be in for a pleasant surprise as prices climb, as many companies plan to offer salary increases that exceed pre-pandemic levels at a time when there is a severe skills shortage and the economy is picking up. According to a survey by recruiting agency Michael Page India, which covered more than 500 large, medium, and small companies across 13 main industry sectors, the average salary increase this year will be 9%, up from 7% in the pre-pandemic year of 2019. According to the Michael Page India Salary Report 2022, startups and new-age enterprises, including unicorns and soonicorns, are likely to steal the show with an average predicted salary hike of 12 percent. According to the research, growth areas include banking and financial services, real estate and construction, and manufacturing. According to the report, due to the growth of e-commerce and other sectors experiencing digital transformation, senior-level professionals with computer science degrees will be in a strong position to bargain for some of the top paying jobs in India, according to the report. Watch | Gravitas: Are You Happy With Your Last Salary Hike? According to the research, data scientists (particularly those with machine learning experience), web developers, and cloud architects will be in great demand, especially if they have a bachelor's or master's degree from a top-rated university. It further stated that engineers are projected to earn higher average pay than professionals with identical educational backgrounds in other job areas. The Michael Page Compensation Report 2022 is based on statistics and facts gleaned from the company's own data and network in India, including job advertisements and placements from 2021, as well as salary forecasts for 2022. The report further stated that companies are now looking to retain top performers with various offers, including shorter - quarterly or half-yearly) - appraisal cycles, promotions, variable pay-outs, stock incentives, retention bonuses, and mid-term increments. Large and traditional businesses in IT/IT-enabled services, manufacturing and engineering, healthcare and life sciences, retail, global in-house centres (GICs), fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG), and banking and financial services (BFSI) will see average increases of 8-12 percent. High-performing individuals and employees with niche skills can expect above-average increments (20-25 per cent or even more on a case-by-case basis) as most organisations have become nimble to retain their top talent, the report added. The overall mood is positive as there is a general feeling that the pandemic is behind us. The hiring market has seen an impressive rebound, with companies competing against one another to attract and hire the best talent. "The mega boost results from rising attrition, a huge talent shortage and a dearth of in-demand skills that predominantly drive the salaries higher," Michael Page, Managing Director India Ankit Agarwala, said. He noted that professionals with niche skills would get higher salary hikes due to a massive shortage of such talent in the market. "Remuneration may be important, but it is not everything in talent attraction corporations that will focus on people's first strategy from leadership communication. Mental well-being and flexible opportunities will ultimately win the war of talent," he added. (With inputs from PTI)

Indian companies to give an average pay hike of 8-12 per cent in 2022, says report

Former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir and Vice President of National Conference Omar Abdullah has been questioned by Enforcement Directorate (ED) in New Delhi on Thursday. According to a source in the ED, the questioning was done in a case related to Jammu and Kashmir Bank. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The National Conference has called it ‘vicious vilification campaign’. NC has said that central government has made a habit of misusing investigative agencies. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Abdullah appeared before the investigators of the agency at around 11 am at its headquarters. The leader was earlier summoned by the agency. He was asked to visit its office on Thursday. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-companies-to-give-an-average-pay-hike-of-8-12-per-cent-in-2022-says-report-469103" hreflang="en">Indian companies to give an average pay hike of 8-12 per cent in 2022, says report</a>

“The central government has made a habit of misusing investigative agencies, and this is another step in the same direction. No political party that puts up meaningful opposition to the BJP has been spared, whether it is the ED, CBI, NIA, NCB - all have been used for political purposes,” said National conference in a statement. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The National conference said that Omar Abdullah despite Ramzan and Delhi not being his place of residence, didn’t postpone the date of questioning and went ahead with it. They have said that elections might take place in Jammu Kashmir this year, and due to this, BJP is using agencies to target other party leaders. &nbsp;&nbsp;

“There was a time when elections were announced by the EC but now it seems that elections are announced by the ED. Over recent years, we have seen that wherever state elections are due, agencies like the ED move in and target those parties who pose a challenge to the BJP. This summons to our Vice President is in the same vein. We have no doubt that this fishing expedition will yield no concrete results to the BJP and the people will give a ringing endorsement to the national conference as and when required,” said National Conference. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The ED hasn’t given out any further details about the case Omar was questioned for. &nbsp;

Watch | Gravitas: Petrol, Diesel prices soar in India

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The officials seem to be taking statement of Abdullah, who has been accused of opening several accounts in the Jammu and Kashmir Bank, through close aides, like Ahsan Mirza, who was authorised to sign cheques, an ANI report said. &nbsp;

Mirza, was also appointed "treasurer" of JK Cricket Association (JKCA) by Abdullah when he was president even when Mirza was not an elected office-bearer. &nbsp;

Parallel accounts of the association were also opened in connivance with a senior executive of the bank, sources claimed. &nbsp;

In July 2019, the ED had also questioned Abdullah on the statements of Mirza and other associates, who were earlier questioned by the agency.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir and Vice President of National Conference Omar Abdullah has been questioned by Enforcement Directorate (ED) in New Delhi on Thursday.

Former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir and Vice President of National Conference Omar Abdullah has been questioned by Enforcement Directorate (ED) in New Delhi on Thursday. According to a source in the ED, the questioning was done in a case related to Jammu and Kashmir Bank. The National Conference has called it ‘vicious vilification campaign’. NC has said that central government has made a habit of misusing investigative agencies. Abdullah appeared before the investigators of the agency at around 11 am at its headquarters. The leader was earlier summoned by the agency. He was asked to visit its office on Thursday. Also Read: Indian companies to give an average pay hike of 8-12 per cent in 2022, says report “The central government has made a habit of misusing investigative agencies, and this is another step in the same direction. No political party that puts up meaningful opposition to the BJP has been spared, whether it is the ED, CBI, NIA, NCB - all have been used for political purposes,” said National conference in a statement. The National conference said that Omar Abdullah despite Ramzan and Delhi not being his place of residence, didn’t postpone the date of questioning and went ahead with it. They have said that elections might take place in Jammu Kashmir this year, and due to this, BJP is using agencies to target other party leaders. “There was a time when elections were announced by the EC but now it seems that elections are announced by the ED. Over recent years, we have seen that wherever state elections are due, agencies like the ED move in and target those parties who pose a challenge to the BJP. This summons to our Vice President is in the same vein. We have no doubt that this fishing expedition will yield no concrete results to the BJP and the people will give a ringing endorsement to the national conference as and when required,” said National Conference. The ED hasn’t given out any further details about the case Omar was questioned for. Watch | Gravitas: Petrol, Diesel prices soar in India × The officials seem to be taking statement of Abdullah, who has been accused of opening several accounts in the Jammu and Kashmir Bank, through close aides, like Ahsan Mirza, who was authorised to sign cheques, an ANI report said. Mirza, was also appointed "treasurer" of JK Cricket Association (JKCA) by Abdullah when he was president even when Mirza was not an elected office-bearer. Parallel accounts of the association were also opened in connivance with a senior executive of the bank, sources claimed. In July 2019, the ED had also questioned Abdullah on the statements of Mirza and other associates, who were earlier questioned by the agency. (With inputs from agencies)

ED quizzes Omar Abdullah; NC calls it Centre's ‘vicious vilification campaign’  

India now has a record-high number of billionaires: Here's a list of top 10 richest in 2022

The Indian government has denied reports of the first case of XE variant of Covid in western Maharashtra state.

The response came hours after the state government said it detected India’s first XE variant in Mumbai city.

"Hours after report of detection of XE variant of Coronavirus in Mumbai, @MoHFW_INDIA has said present evidence does not suggest the presence of the new variant," PIB Maharashtra said in a tweet, referring to the clarification by the Union health ministry.

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.<a href="https://twitter.com/MoHFW_INDIA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MoHFW_INDIA</a> Clarification on Reported Case of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID</a> XE Variant in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Mumbai?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Mumbai</a>: 
 
➡️ Hours after report of detection of XE variant of Coronavirus in Mumbai, <a href="https://twitter.com/MoHFW_INDIA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MoHFW_INDIA</a> has said present evidence does not suggest the presence of the new variant.<a href="https://twitter.com/PIB_India?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PIB_India</a><a href="https://twitter.com/COVIDNewsByMIB?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@COVIDNewsByMIB</a> 
 
(1/3)🧵
— PIB in Maharashtra 🇮🇳 (@PIBMumbai) <a href="https://twitter.com/PIBMumbai/status/1511721304344260612?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 6, 2022</a></blockquote>
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XE is recombinant of Omicron BA.1 and BA.2 sublineages of COVID-19.

The health ministry said the individual who supposedly tested positive for XE variant is a fully vaccinated 50-year-old woman with no comorbidity and asymptomatic.

According to reports, she had come from South Africa on February 10 and had no prior travel history. Her identity has been kept confidential.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explainer-who-warns-about-new-omicron-hybrid-xe-is-it-more-transmissible-467582">Explainer: WHO warns about new Omicron hybrid XE: Is it more transmissible?</a>

The ministry reportedly clarified that the woman had tested negative for the virus upon arrival.

So far, only UK had detected the XE variant. According to the World Health Organisation, the new Covid may be more transmissible than the BA.2 sublineage of COVID-19.

"The XE recombinant (BA.1-BA.2), was first detected in the United Kingdom on January 19 and 600 sequences have been reported and confirmed since," the WHO had said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-india-detects-first-case-of-omicron-xe-variant-in-mumbai-468855">COVID-19: India detects first case of Omicron XE variant in Mumbai</a>

“Early estimates based on limited preliminary data suggest that XE has a community growth rate advantage of about 10% as compared to BA.2. However, this finding requires further confirmation. Some media have misreported the potential growth advantage of 10% as 10 times. This is incorrect. If the 10% increase in growth is confirmed, this variant would be 1.1 times more transmissible, not 10 times,” the UN health body said.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Indian government has denied reports of the first case of XE variant of Covid in western Maharashtra state. The response came hours after the state government said it detected India’s first XE variant in Mumbai city.

The Indian government has denied reports of the first case of XE variant of Covid in western Maharashtra state. The response came hours after the state government said it detected India’s first XE variant in Mumbai city. "Hours after report of detection of XE variant of Coronavirus in Mumbai, @MoHFW_INDIA has said present evidence does not suggest the presence of the new variant," PIB Maharashtra said in a tweet, referring to the clarification by the Union health ministry. .@MoHFW_INDIA Clarification on Reported Case of #COVID XE Variant in #Mumbai: ➡️ Hours after report of detection of XE variant of Coronavirus in Mumbai, @MoHFW_INDIA has said present evidence does not suggest the presence of the new variant.@PIB_India@COVIDNewsByMIB (1/3)🧵 — PIB in Maharashtra 🇮🇳 (@PIBMumbai) April 6, 2022 × XE is recombinant of Omicron BA.1 and BA.2 sublineages of COVID-19. The health ministry said the individual who supposedly tested positive for XE variant is a fully vaccinated 50-year-old woman with no comorbidity and asymptomatic. According to reports, she had come from South Africa on February 10 and had no prior travel history. Her identity has been kept confidential. Also read | Explainer: WHO warns about new Omicron hybrid XE: Is it more transmissible? The ministry reportedly clarified that the woman had tested negative for the virus upon arrival. So far, only UK had detected the XE variant. According to the World Health Organisation, the new Covid may be more transmissible than the BA.2 sublineage of COVID-19. "The XE recombinant (BA.1-BA.2), was first detected in the United Kingdom on January 19 and 600 sequences have been reported and confirmed since," the WHO had said. Also read | COVID-19: India detects first case of Omicron XE variant in Mumbai “Early estimates based on limited preliminary data suggest that XE has a community growth rate advantage of about 10% as compared to BA.2. However, this finding requires further confirmation. Some media have misreported the potential growth advantage of 10% as 10 times. This is incorrect. If the 10% increase in growth is confirmed, this variant would be 1.1 times more transmissible, not 10 times,” the UN health body said. (With inputs from agencies)

No Covid XE variant in India yet, government clarifies

With 1,033 new coronavirus infections being reported in a day, India's total tally of COVID-19 cases rose to 4,30,31,958, while the active cases dipped to 11,639, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Thursday.

The death toll climbed to 5,21,530 with 43 fresh fatalities, the data updated at 8 am stated.

The active cases comprise 0.03 per cent of the total infections, while the national COVID-19 recovery rate remained at 98.76 per cent, the ministry said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-india-detects-first-case-of-omicron-xe-variant-in-mumbai-468855">COVID-19: India detects first case of Omicron XE variant in Mumbai</a>

A reduction of 232 cases has been recorded in the active COVID-19 caseload in a span of 24 hours.

The daily positivity rate was recorded as 0.21 per cent and the weekly positivity rate as 0.22 per cent, according to the ministry.

The number of people who have recuperated from the disease surged to 4,24,98,789 while the case fatality rate was recorded at 1.21 per cent.

The cumulative doses administered in the country so far under the nationwide COVID-19 vaccination drive has exceeded 185.20 crore.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Is it time to go mask-less?

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India's COVID-19 tally had crossed the 20-lakh mark on August 7, 2020, 30 lakh on August 23, 40 lakh on September 5 and 50 lakh on September 16. It went past 60 lakh on September 28, 70 lakh on October 11, crossed 80 lakh on October 29, 90 lakh on November 20 and surpassed the one-crore mark on December 19. The country crossed the grim milestone of two crore on May 4 and three crore on June 23 last year.

The 43 new fatalities include 32 from Kerala.

A total of 5,21,530 deaths have been reported so far in the country including 1,47,800 from Maharashtra, 68,228 from Kerala, 40,056 from Karnataka, 38,025 from Tamil Nadu, 26,155 from Delhi, 23,497 from Uttar Pradesh and 21,200 from West Bengal.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/second-booster-shot-protects-against-covid-19-but-effect-remains-short-lived-study-468788">Second booster shot protects against COVID-19 but effect remains short-lived: Study</a>

The ministry stressed that more than 70 per cent of the deaths occurred due to comorbidities.

"Our figures are being reconciled with the Indian Council of Medical Research," the ministry said on its website, adding that state-wise distribution of figures is subject to further verification and reconciliation.

With 1,033 new coronavirus infections being reported in a day, India's total tally of COVID-19 cases rose to 4,30,31,958, while the active cases dipped to 11,639, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Thursday.

With 1,033 new coronavirus infections being reported in a day, India's total tally of COVID-19 cases rose to 4,30,31,958, while the active cases dipped to 11,639, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Thursday. The death toll climbed to 5,21,530 with 43 fresh fatalities, the data updated at 8 am stated. The active cases comprise 0.03 per cent of the total infections, while the national COVID-19 recovery rate remained at 98.76 per cent, the ministry said. Also read | COVID-19: India detects first case of Omicron XE variant in Mumbai A reduction of 232 cases has been recorded in the active COVID-19 caseload in a span of 24 hours. The daily positivity rate was recorded as 0.21 per cent and the weekly positivity rate as 0.22 per cent, according to the ministry. The number of people who have recuperated from the disease surged to 4,24,98,789 while the case fatality rate was recorded at 1.21 per cent. The cumulative doses administered in the country so far under the nationwide COVID-19 vaccination drive has exceeded 185.20 crore. Watch | Gravitas: Is it time to go mask-less? India's COVID-19 tally had crossed the 20-lakh mark on August 7, 2020, 30 lakh on August 23, 40 lakh on September 5 and 50 lakh on September 16. It went past 60 lakh on September 28, 70 lakh on October 11, crossed 80 lakh on October 29, 90 lakh on November 20 and surpassed the one-crore mark on December 19. The country crossed the grim milestone of two crore on May 4 and three crore on June 23 last year. The 43 new fatalities include 32 from Kerala. A total of 5,21,530 deaths have been reported so far in the country including 1,47,800 from Maharashtra, 68,228 from Kerala, 40,056 from Karnataka, 38,025 from Tamil Nadu, 26,155 from Delhi, 23,497 from Uttar Pradesh and 21,200 from West Bengal. Also read | Second booster shot protects against COVID-19 but effect remains short-lived: Study The ministry stressed that more than 70 per cent of the deaths occurred due to comorbidities. "Our figures are being reconciled with the Indian Council of Medical Research," the ministry said on its website, adding that state-wise distribution of figures is subject to further verification and reconciliation.

COVID-19: India logs 1,033 new cases, active cases dipped to 11,639

After the recent attacks across India's Kashmir Valley, the district administration in Srinagar has issued an order for the business establishments to install CCTV Cameras outside their shops and premises. The step has been taken to keep a check on terror, criminal, anti-social and anti-national activities.&nbsp;

As per the issued order, the prevailing persistent threat, relating to recently increased incidents of selective targeting of the innocent citizens in Jammu and Kashmir by the anti-national and subversive elements, requires several measures including the use of appropriate technologies to safeguard life and property.&nbsp;

"The benefits of advancements in technology are being reaped by every sector be it education, investment, management, health, or public service and many states/UTs of the Union of India now employ video surveillance as a tool to monitor public movements and to prevent crime and terrorism," read a part of the order copy.&nbsp;

The administration believes installing CCTV cameras across the city would help keep a check on terror or criminal activity. "The role of CCTV cameras in improving safety and security cannot be undermined because they not only help in deterrence, surveillance and detection of crime but are very important tools for the law enforcement agencies in the prosecution and bringing the culprit/offender to the book," the order further read.&nbsp;

The DC Srinagar in the order has stated that he exercises the powers conferred upon him by virtue of section 144 Cr. P C, 1973. And has asked for strict compliance by the owners of such establishments and market associations of such markets whether registered or not, who shall within a period of two weeks (14 days) from the date of publication of this order shall take the following steps.&nbsp;

"Ensure that the CCTV system installed is in always working condition, 24 x 7 even when the establishment is closed. The CCTV system should be of good quality with minimum resolution of 1920 X 1080, Minimum Illumination of 0.01 Lux, Focal length 3.6 mm, built in IR and retention period of 30 days, with feature to playback as well as download the recording," the order read.&nbsp;

It states that they provide the CCTV footage to the police and other law enforcement agencies whenever demanded.&nbsp;

After the recent attacks across India's Kashmir Valley, the district administration in Srinagar has issued an order for the business establishments to install CCTV Cameras outside their shops and premises.

After the recent attacks across India's Kashmir Valley, the district administration in Srinagar has issued an order for the business establishments to install CCTV Cameras outside their shops and premises. The step has been taken to keep a check on terror, criminal, anti-social and anti-national activities. As per the issued order, the prevailing persistent threat, relating to recently increased incidents of selective targeting of the innocent citizens in Jammu and Kashmir by the anti-national and subversive elements, requires several measures including the use of appropriate technologies to safeguard life and property. "The benefits of advancements in technology are being reaped by every sector be it education, investment, management, health, or public service and many states/UTs of the Union of India now employ video surveillance as a tool to monitor public movements and to prevent crime and terrorism," read a part of the order copy. The administration believes installing CCTV cameras across the city would help keep a check on terror or criminal activity. "The role of CCTV cameras in improving safety and security cannot be undermined because they not only help in deterrence, surveillance and detection of crime but are very important tools for the law enforcement agencies in the prosecution and bringing the culprit/offender to the book," the order further read. The DC Srinagar in the order has stated that he exercises the powers conferred upon him by virtue of section 144 Cr. P C, 1973. And has asked for strict compliance by the owners of such establishments and market associations of such markets whether registered or not, who shall within a period of two weeks (14 days) from the date of publication of this order shall take the following steps. "Ensure that the CCTV system installed is in always working condition, 24 x 7 even when the establishment is closed. The CCTV system should be of good quality with minimum resolution of 1920 X 1080, Minimum Illumination of 0.01 Lux, Focal length 3.6 mm, built in IR and retention period of 30 days, with feature to playback as well as download the recording," the order read. It states that they provide the CCTV footage to the police and other law enforcement agencies whenever demanded.

India: Srinagar administration orders CCTVs installation outside shops, markets amid rise in terror attacks

Five years after its maiden developmental flight in 2017, India's heaviest rocket GSLV Mk3 will be used for launching a commercial satellite in 2022. This is significant given how India has only been utilizing variants of its most-reliable PSLV rocket for commercial missions thus far.&nbsp;

While the PSLV is capable of placing satellites weighing nearly 1,750kg into Polar orbits(where strategic satellites and imaging satellites are placed), whereas the GSLV rocket can place 4-ton class satellites into the Geosynchronous Transfer orbit(GTO).&nbsp;

Satellites placed in GTO are eventually moved to the Geosynchronous orbits, which are approximately 36,000kms above the earth's equator, where communication and weather-monitoring satellites belong. &nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-and-israel-to-convert-passenger-aircraft-into-strategic-transporters-as-part-of-make-in-india-468989">India and Israel to convert passenger aircraft into strategic transporters, as part of Make in India</a>

ISRO has been launching foreign satellites and those of its customers only on PSLV rockets, because of the rocket's high reliability of delivering as many as 52 successful missions out of 54 launches.&nbsp;

In case of the GSLV Mk 3, it has been launched four times and performed the mission objectives successfully on all four attempts, but all of these have been to fulfil India's national requirements and not those of customers.

Notably, it is the human-rated version(specially modified to carry astronauts) of the same GSLV Mk3 that will be used for India's Gaganyaan Mission to send astronauts to space.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
In 2022, India will be performing six rocket launch missions - two launches of PSLV, two developmental flights of the new Small Satellite Launch Vehicle(SSLV), one launch of GSLV, one launch of GSLV Mk3.

In terms of satellite missions, ISRO is looking at launching EOS-6 Earth Observation Satellite, NVS-01 Navigation satellite for NavIC, one communication satellite mission GSAT-24.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/isro-team-to-probe-suspected-chinese-rocket-debris-that-fell-in-maharashtra-village-468775">ISRO team to probe suspected Chinese rocket debris that fell in Maharashtra village</a>

These details were revealed in India's lower house of parliament by Jitendra Singh, the Minister overseeing the Department of Space. Accomplishing these six launches in 2022 would mean that ISRO is launching all of its current operational vehicles in a single year.(SSLV is not yet operational, but will make its debut) 
&nbsp;&nbsp; 
However, some big-ticket, highly-anticipated missions such as Chandrayaan-3, Aditya L-1, first unmanned flight of Gaganyaan etc. don't find a mention in this list.&nbsp;

Notably, Minister Jitendra Singh himself had made an announcement earlier this year regarding Chandrayaan-3 being launched in August 2022. According to ISRO, the pandemic and resultant lockdowns had caused disruption and delay to the Indian state-run space agency's launch activity.&nbsp;

Five years after its maiden developmental flight in 2017, India's heaviest rocket GSLV Mk3 will be used for launching a commercial satellite in 2022. This is significant given how India has only been utilizing variants of its most-reliable PSLV rocket for commercial missions thus far.

Five years after its maiden developmental flight in 2017, India's heaviest rocket GSLV Mk3 will be used for launching a commercial satellite in 2022. This is significant given how India has only been utilizing variants of its most-reliable PSLV rocket for commercial missions thus far. While the PSLV is capable of placing satellites weighing nearly 1,750kg into Polar orbits(where strategic satellites and imaging satellites are placed), whereas the GSLV rocket can place 4-ton class satellites into the Geosynchronous Transfer orbit(GTO). Satellites placed in GTO are eventually moved to the Geosynchronous orbits, which are approximately 36,000kms above the earth's equator, where communication and weather-monitoring satellites belong. ALSO READ | India and Israel to convert passenger aircraft into strategic transporters, as part of Make in India ISRO has been launching foreign satellites and those of its customers only on PSLV rockets, because of the rocket's high reliability of delivering as many as 52 successful missions out of 54 launches. In case of the GSLV Mk 3, it has been launched four times and performed the mission objectives successfully on all four attempts, but all of these have been to fulfil India's national requirements and not those of customers. Notably, it is the human-rated version(specially modified to carry astronauts) of the same GSLV Mk3 that will be used for India's Gaganyaan Mission to send astronauts to space. In 2022, India will be performing six rocket launch missions - two launches of PSLV, two developmental flights of the new Small Satellite Launch Vehicle(SSLV), one launch of GSLV, one launch of GSLV Mk3. In terms of satellite missions, ISRO is looking at launching EOS-6 Earth Observation Satellite, NVS-01 Navigation satellite for NavIC, one communication satellite mission GSAT-24. ALSO READ | ISRO team to probe suspected Chinese rocket debris that fell in Maharashtra village These details were revealed in India's lower house of parliament by Jitendra Singh, the Minister overseeing the Department of Space. Accomplishing these six launches in 2022 would mean that ISRO is launching all of its current operational vehicles in a single year.(SSLV is not yet operational, but will make its debut) However, some big-ticket, highly-anticipated missions such as Chandrayaan-3, Aditya L-1, first unmanned flight of Gaganyaan etc. don't find a mention in this list. Notably, Minister Jitendra Singh himself had made an announcement earlier this year regarding Chandrayaan-3 being launched in August 2022. According to ISRO, the pandemic and resultant lockdowns had caused disruption and delay to the Indian state-run space agency's launch activity.

Six launches in 2022, ISRO to launch all rockets in its fleet - SSLV, PSLV, GSLV, Mk3

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At the United Nations Security Council meeting on Ukraine on Tuesday, India has condemned the killing of civilians in Bucha and has supported an independent investigation into it.

Bucha, a suburb of Ukraine's capital Kyiv was under Russian occupation during the ongoing war and as its troops left the area, the dead bodies of several civilians were discovered. Russia has been held responsible for the killings, something Moscow has been dismissing but hasn't found many takers of that.

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Speaking at the meeting, India's Permanent Representative to United Nations T.S. Tirumurti said, "Recent reports of civilian killings in Bucha are deeply disturbing. We unequivocally condemn these killings and support the call for an independent investigation." Several images and videos have emerged of bodies strewn across the town, many of them which had hand-tied in the back. Ukraine had requested an International Criminal Court investigation into developments in Bucha. According to the mayor of the town, 300 of its inhabitants were found dead.

Expressing concern, Ambassador T.S. Tirumurti said, "The situation in Ukraine has not shown any significant improvement since the Council last discussed the issue. The security situation has only deteriorated, as well as its humanitarian consequences." Tuesday's UNSC meet saw Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy addressing the top UN body giving details about what happened in the town.

Also see |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/satellite-images-show-civilian-deaths-in-ukraines-bucha-street-468514">Satellite images show civilian deaths in Ukraine's Bucha street</a>

The Indian envoy pointed out how, "India has been sending humanitarian supplies to Ukraine and its Neighbours, which include medicines and other essential relief material" and Delhi "stands ready to provide more medical supplies to Ukraine in the coming days." India has sent 90 Tonnes of humanitarian supplies to Ukraine, which includes medicines and essentials.&nbsp;

During the address, Ambassador Tirumurti pointed to the "impact of the crisis is being felt beyond the region with increasing food and energy costs, especially for many developing countries. "Since the war energy prices, especially oil prices have substantially increased adding to the overall increased inflation globally. This has particularly hit hard developing and low-income countries emerging from the covid pandemic.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bucha-killings-are-fake-propaganda-says-putins-ally-dmitry-medvedev-468582" hreflang="en">Bucha killings are fake propaganda says Putin's ally Dmitry Medvedev</a>

India has been calling for direct talks between Russia and Ukraine for an immediate cessation of violence. PM Modi has spoken to Russian President Putin and President Zelenskyy several times, calling for dialogue. Indian envoy to the UN explained, "When innocent human lives are at stake, diplomacy must prevail as the only viable option. In this context, we take note of the ongoing efforts, including the meetings held recently between the Parties."

Tuesday's meeting saw an address by Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, Under-Secretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs Rosemary Dicarlo and Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Martin Griffiths. There have been several meetings of the UNSC on Ukraine since January. While India has abstained on all votes at such meetings, it has been calling for respect for territorial integrity and sovereignty of states.
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At the United Nations Security Council meeting on Ukraine on Tuesday, India has condemned the killing of civilians in Bucha and has supported an independent investigation into it.

At the United Nations Security Council meeting on Ukraine on Tuesday, India has condemned the killing of civilians in Bucha and has supported an independent investigation into it. Bucha, a suburb of Ukraine's capital Kyiv was under Russian occupation during the ongoing war and as its troops left the area, the dead bodies of several civilians were discovered. Russia has been held responsible for the killings, something Moscow has been dismissing but hasn't found many takers of that. Speaking at the meeting, India's Permanent Representative to United Nations T.S. Tirumurti said, "Recent reports of civilian killings in Bucha are deeply disturbing. We unequivocally condemn these killings and support the call for an independent investigation." Several images and videos have emerged of bodies strewn across the town, many of them which had hand-tied in the back. Ukraine had requested an International Criminal Court investigation into developments in Bucha. According to the mayor of the town, 300 of its inhabitants were found dead. Expressing concern, Ambassador T.S. Tirumurti said, "The situation in Ukraine has not shown any significant improvement since the Council last discussed the issue. The security situation has only deteriorated, as well as its humanitarian consequences." Tuesday's UNSC meet saw Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy addressing the top UN body giving details about what happened in the town. Also see | Satellite images show civilian deaths in Ukraine's Bucha street The Indian envoy pointed out how, "India has been sending humanitarian supplies to Ukraine and its Neighbours, which include medicines and other essential relief material" and Delhi "stands ready to provide more medical supplies to Ukraine in the coming days." India has sent 90 Tonnes of humanitarian supplies to Ukraine, which includes medicines and essentials. During the address, Ambassador Tirumurti pointed to the "impact of the crisis is being felt beyond the region with increasing food and energy costs, especially for many developing countries. "Since the war energy prices, especially oil prices have substantially increased adding to the overall increased inflation globally. This has particularly hit hard developing and low-income countries emerging from the covid pandemic. Also read | Bucha killings are fake propaganda says Putin's ally Dmitry Medvedev India has been calling for direct talks between Russia and Ukraine for an immediate cessation of violence. PM Modi has spoken to Russian President Putin and President Zelenskyy several times, calling for dialogue. Indian envoy to the UN explained, "When innocent human lives are at stake, diplomacy must prevail as the only viable option. In this context, we take note of the ongoing efforts, including the meetings held recently between the Parties." Tuesday's meeting saw an address by Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, Under-Secretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs Rosemary Dicarlo and Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Martin Griffiths. There have been several meetings of the UNSC on Ukraine since January. While India has abstained on all votes at such meetings, it has been calling for respect for territorial integrity and sovereignty of states.

At UNSC, India condemns killing in Ukraine's Bucha, supports independent investigation

An 82-year-old retired government employee has built a temple for his pet dog ‘Tom’ on his farm in Indian state of Tamil Nadu, an ANI report said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Muthu, who lives in Sivaganga’s Manamadurai, was heartbroken after the death of the animal. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/what-is-cuet-2022-application-process-for-entrance-exam-for-undergraduate-courses-begins-in-india-468849" hreflang="en">What is CUET 2022? Application process for entrance exam for undergraduate courses begins in India</a>

Muthu said, "I had Tom since 2010 and I loved him more than my child. Unfortunately, in 2021, he died. So, we are making an idol of him. For the past three generations, there has been no one in my family without a dog. My grandparents and my father were all dog lovers." &nbsp;

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Family in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/sivaganga?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#sivaganga</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TamilNadu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TamilNadu</a> built a granite statue in memory of their pet dog, perform puja, offer prayers twice a week.. He had been with family for 11yrs &amp; died in 2021..Now is the 1st yr anniv..they also hope to build a small temple for their "son"<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DogsofTwittter?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DogsofTwittter</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/dogs?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#dogs</a> <a href="https://t.co/R9JQTFF8dw">pic.twitter.com/R9JQTFF8dw</a>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1511292819725422596?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 5, 2022</a></blockquote>
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The man seems to have broken all kinds of barriers in showing his love for the late pet dog by building temple in his memory.

Watch:&nbsp;A father's labour of love: Vietnamese father converts van into a wooden tank&nbsp;

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Muthu's son Manoj, said, "All of a sudden, Tom developed health issues and died without responding to treatment in January 2021 and my father decided to make a temple for him and took Rs 80,000 from his savings to get a marble statue made. As of now, we offer garland to the statue on auspicious days and on all Fridays." &nbsp;&nbsp;

The temple has also been attracting several visitors from the area. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

An 82-year-old retired government employee has built a temple for his pet dog ‘Tom’ on his farm in Indian state of Tamil Nadu, an ANI report said. Muthu, who lives in Sivaganga’s Manamadurai, was heartbroken after the death of the animal.

An 82-year-old retired government employee has built a temple for his pet dog ‘Tom’ on his farm in Indian state of Tamil Nadu, an ANI report said. Muthu, who lives in Sivaganga’s Manamadurai, was heartbroken after the death of the animal. Also Read: What is CUET 2022? Application process for entrance exam for undergraduate courses begins in India Muthu said, "I had Tom since 2010 and I loved him more than my child. Unfortunately, in 2021, he died. So, we are making an idol of him. For the past three generations, there has been no one in my family without a dog. My grandparents and my father were all dog lovers." Family in #sivaganga #TamilNadu built a granite statue in memory of their pet dog, perform puja, offer prayers twice a week.. He had been with family for 11yrs & died in 2021..Now is the 1st yr anniv..they also hope to build a small temple for their "son"#DogsofTwittter #dogs pic.twitter.com/R9JQTFF8dw — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) April 5, 2022 × The man seems to have broken all kinds of barriers in showing his love for the late pet dog by building temple in his memory. Watch: A father's labour of love: Vietnamese father converts van into a wooden tank × Muthu's son Manoj, said, "All of a sudden, Tom developed health issues and died without responding to treatment in January 2021 and my father decided to make a temple for him and took Rs 80,000 from his savings to get a marble statue made. As of now, we offer garland to the statue on auspicious days and on all Fridays." The temple has also been attracting several visitors from the area. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: Indian man constructs temple for pet dog in Tamil Nadu state 

In India, two terrorists were killed in an encounter in South Kashmir's Tral area. Jammu and Kashmir police said that the terrorists belonged to Ansar Ul Gazwatul Hind and Lashkar-e-Taiba terror outfit.

In India, two terrorists were killed in an encounter in South Kashmir's Tral area. Jammu and Kashmir police said that the terrorists belonged to Ansar Ul Gazwatul Hind and Lashkar-e-Taiba terror outfit. The encounter started in the early hours today when security forces received a tip-off about the presence of terrorists in the area. Cordon and search operation was launched and during the search operation, terrorists fired on security forces resulting in a gun battle. Jammu and Kashmir Police also stated that the same terrorists were involved in the killing of a sarpanch recently in the Khonmoh area of Srinagar. "AGuH terrorist Safat Muzzaffar Sofi @ Muavia and LeT’s terrorist Umer Teli @ Talha killed in Tral. Before shifting to Tral area both were involved in several terror crimes in Srinagar city including recent killing of Sarpanch (Sameer Ahmad) in Khanmoh Srinagar," said Vijay Kumar, IG Kashmir Police. Earlier, the Jammu and Kashmir Police's DG Dilbagh Singh had said that 42 terrorists were killed in the last 3 months in the Kashmir Valley. He also said that 32 Foreign terrorists mostly Pakistani’s were killed in the year 2021. ''In the past three months we have killed 42 terrorists and we are also acting against a lot of OGW's.32 foreign terrorists were killed in 2021 who had come from Pakistan. This year also we have managed to kill a good number of foreign terrorists," said Dilbagh Singh, DGP JK Police. The security forces have intensified operations across the valley after a spate of attacks took place in South Kashmir.

India: Two terrorists killed in Tral encounter in Kashmir

There is some exciting news for fans of Indian singer and songwriter Lucky Ali. His new project, 'Intezaar', releases on April 6, where he has collaborated with Mikey McCleary. Here's what Ali told WION about his latest project.

Indian musician Lucky Ali speaks to WION about his latest project 'Intezaar'

Civic bodies in the Indian capital Delhi, and the state of Uttar Pradesh have triggered debate over the proposed meat ban in India during the Navratri festival.

The debate over the proposed meat ban in India during the Navratri festival rages on

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