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With a focus on technology and critical minerals,&nbsp;Australian PM Scott Morrison will announce Rs 1500 crore investment package in India at the India Australia virtual summit that will take place on Monday.

The summit will happen around noon, India time.&nbsp;&nbsp;The last such virtual summit between the two&nbsp;leaders took place in June 2020. At that time, amid the Covid crisis, it was the first such virtual summit PM Modi had with any foreign leader. During that summit, the relationship was raised to a comprehensive strategic partnership.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/eam-jaishankar-to-visit-munich-paris-india-australia-france-fms-trilateral-on-anvil-452012">Also read |&nbsp;EAM Jaishankar to visit Munich, Paris; India, Australia, France FMs trilateral on anvil</a>

The package is the largest ever Australian govt investment in India. The break up includes Rs 193 crores in clean technology and critical minerals cooperation for the production of renewable energy technologies firming up India's capacity in the sector. The amount is also the largest of component of the package.

Australia is expecting Indian investment in the country's critical mineral mines sector, especially with the visit of Indian Mines Prahlad Joshi to the country. Australia accounts for 55 per cent&nbsp;of global lithium production, something that can help India's auto sector.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Critical Minerals like lithium form the base of global economies and are used in the manufacture of electric cars, solar panels, mobiles. The development comes even has moves are on to reduce dependency on China for critical minerals, also known as Rare earth.&nbsp;

Rs 136 crore will be announced to enhance cooperation in space, Rs 152 crore to establish centre&nbsp;for Australia India relations based in Australia increase community, business ties, and oversee scholarships, Rs 97 crore for cooperation in trade, skills, and innovation.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-looking-at-fta-with-uae-uk-australia-canada-israel-trade-minister-piyush-goyal-442047">Also read |&nbsp;India looking at FTA with UAE, UK, Australia, Canada, Israel: Trade minister Piyush Goyal</a>

Sources said, "at a time covid has demonstrated increasing change and uncertainty across the Indo Pacific, the importance of comprehensive strategic partnership has never been more evident. Both PMs now recognize the need to further uplift and summit will emphasis India and Australia are top tier partners."

Australia, India young defense officers exchange programme will also be announced in memory of Chief of Defense staff Bipin Rawat to promote ties, training, and information sharing on maritime security. Letter of intent on mobility, migration to be signed between the two&nbsp;countries that will increase people-to-people interaction.&nbsp;29 Indian artifacts will be returned by Australia to India.

The national broadcaster of India, Australia will sign MoU, especially focusing on Indian programs in Australian networks.&nbsp;

With a focus on technology and critical minerals, Australian PM Scott Morrison will announce Rs 1500 crore investment package in India at the India Australia virtual summit that will take place on Monday.

With a focus on technology and critical minerals, Australian PM Scott Morrison will announce Rs 1500 crore investment package in India at the India Australia virtual summit that will take place on Monday. The summit will happen around noon, India time. The last such virtual summit between the two leaders took place in June 2020. At that time, amid the Covid crisis, it was the first such virtual summit PM Modi had with any foreign leader. During that summit, the relationship was raised to a comprehensive strategic partnership. Also read | EAM Jaishankar to visit Munich, Paris; India, Australia, France FMs trilateral on anvil The package is the largest ever Australian govt investment in India. The break up includes Rs 193 crores in clean technology and critical minerals cooperation for the production of renewable energy technologies firming up India's capacity in the sector. The amount is also the largest of component of the package. Australia is expecting Indian investment in the country's critical mineral mines sector, especially with the visit of Indian Mines Prahlad Joshi to the country. Australia accounts for 55 per cent of global lithium production, something that can help India's auto sector. Critical Minerals like lithium form the base of global economies and are used in the manufacture of electric cars, solar panels, mobiles. The development comes even has moves are on to reduce dependency on China for critical minerals, also known as Rare earth. Rs 136 crore will be announced to enhance cooperation in space, Rs 152 crore to establish centre for Australia India relations based in Australia increase community, business ties, and oversee scholarships, Rs 97 crore for cooperation in trade, skills, and innovation. Also read | India looking at FTA with UAE, UK, Australia, Canada, Israel: Trade minister Piyush Goyal Sources said, "at a time covid has demonstrated increasing change and uncertainty across the Indo Pacific, the importance of comprehensive strategic partnership has never been more evident. Both PMs now recognize the need to further uplift and summit will emphasis India and Australia are top tier partners." Australia, India young defense officers exchange programme will also be announced in memory of Chief of Defense staff Bipin Rawat to promote ties, training, and information sharing on maritime security. Letter of intent on mobility, migration to be signed between the two countries that will increase people-to-people interaction. 29 Indian artifacts will be returned by Australia to India. The national broadcaster of India, Australia will sign MoU, especially focusing on Indian programs in Australian networks.

With focus on critical minerals, Australia to announce Rs 1500 crore investment in India

With the Ukraine crisis and further strengthening of Quad grouping, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida will reach India to take part in the 14th annual India Japan summit with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.&nbsp;

Both leaders will meet around 5:00 pm IST in New Delhi, this is the second such in-person meeting after both leaders met last year on the sidelines of the Glasgow Climate Summit.&nbsp;

Japan's chief cabinet secretary Hirokazu Matsuno ahead of the visit said, "From March 19th to 21st, PM Kishida will visit India and Cambodia. During his travel, PM Kishida will meet PM Modi of India...to discuss the international and regional affairs as well as the bilateral relationship. They will address broad range of topics...through Quad we would like to advance efforts to achieve free and open Indo Pacific", adding, "will discuss Ukraine situation".

Japan, along with the West has announced sanctions against Russia over its invasion of Ukraine that started on February 24.&nbsp;

Japan is also sanctioning Russia's state-owned arms exporter Rosoboronexport. Russia's Rosoboronexport is involved in K-203 Kalashnikov project in Amethi and other defence pacts with India.&nbsp;

India meanwhile has abstained at the United Nations over the Ukraine crisis and is looking to import discounted Russian oil something that is seen as a pragmatic approach domestically.&nbsp;

The visit comes even as India and Japan celebrate the 70th anniversary of the establishment of formal diplomatic ties.&nbsp;

This is the first visit by any Japanese PM to India in four and half years. While India and Japan have ab annual summit-level mechanism under which prime ministers of both countries travel to each other's countries alternatively, the delay has been due to the ongoing coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis.&nbsp;

PM Fumio, become the Japanese PM in October of last year and had visited India earlier in his capacity as foreign minister.&nbsp;

According to reports by Japanese newspaper Nikkei, the incoming Japanese PM plans to announce five trillion yen or $42 billion investment in India for the next five years during the two-day visit.&nbsp;

During the weekly ministry of external affairs presser on Thursday, spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said, "The summit will provide an opportunity for both sides to review and strengthen the bilateral cooperation in diverse areas, as well as exchange views on regional and global issues of mutual interest, so as to advance partnership for peace, stability and prosperity in the Indo Pacific region and beyond."&nbsp;

Later this year, PM Modi is expected to visit Japan for the second Quad in-person summit in Japan. Quad, involving India, US, Australia, Japan is been evolving fast amid the Chinese aggressive actions in the Indo Pacific.&nbsp;

This is the first head of government/head of state-level incoming visit to India this year. Japan has been one of the closest partners for India in Asia and the world.&nbsp;

The country has been involved in building major infrastructure projects, especially in India's north-east. PM had last year laid the foundation stone of a 20 km-long bridge over the Brahmaputra river between Assam and Meghalaya.&nbsp;

Varanasi Convention Centre (Rudraksh) was inaugurated by PM last year where the then Japanese PM Yoshihide Suga had sent a video message. C

The country has a major role in India's first bullet train or Mumbai-Ahmedabad High Speed Rail and in terms of defence, both sides have signed a Reciprocal Provision of Supplies and Services Agreement (RPSS).&nbsp;

As part of getting a trained Indian workforce, India and Japan have signed the Specified Skilled Workers Agreement. Under Technical Intern Training Programme (TITP), 220 Indian youth have been sent to Japan to work.&nbsp;

The Japanese side has since January this year started examination for nursing care under this programme.

WATCH |&nbsp;WION Ground Report: The story of Kyiv's first responders

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With the Ukraine crisis and further strengthening of Quad grouping, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida will reach India to take part in the 14th annual India Japan summit with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

With the Ukraine crisis and further strengthening of Quad grouping, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida will reach India to take part in the 14th annual India Japan summit with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Both leaders will meet around 5:00 pm IST in New Delhi, this is the second such in-person meeting after both leaders met last year on the sidelines of the Glasgow Climate Summit. Japan's chief cabinet secretary Hirokazu Matsuno ahead of the visit said, "From March 19th to 21st, PM Kishida will visit India and Cambodia. During his travel, PM Kishida will meet PM Modi of India...to discuss the international and regional affairs as well as the bilateral relationship. They will address broad range of topics...through Quad we would like to advance efforts to achieve free and open Indo Pacific", adding, "will discuss Ukraine situation". Japan, along with the West has announced sanctions against Russia over its invasion of Ukraine that started on February 24. Japan is also sanctioning Russia's state-owned arms exporter Rosoboronexport. Russia's Rosoboronexport is involved in K-203 Kalashnikov project in Amethi and other defence pacts with India. India meanwhile has abstained at the United Nations over the Ukraine crisis and is looking to import discounted Russian oil something that is seen as a pragmatic approach domestically. The visit comes even as India and Japan celebrate the 70th anniversary of the establishment of formal diplomatic ties. This is the first visit by any Japanese PM to India in four and half years. While India and Japan have ab annual summit-level mechanism under which prime ministers of both countries travel to each other's countries alternatively, the delay has been due to the ongoing coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis. PM Fumio, become the Japanese PM in October of last year and had visited India earlier in his capacity as foreign minister. According to reports by Japanese newspaper Nikkei, the incoming Japanese PM plans to announce five trillion yen or $42 billion investment in India for the next five years during the two-day visit. During the weekly ministry of external affairs presser on Thursday, spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said, "The summit will provide an opportunity for both sides to review and strengthen the bilateral cooperation in diverse areas, as well as exchange views on regional and global issues of mutual interest, so as to advance partnership for peace, stability and prosperity in the Indo Pacific region and beyond." Later this year, PM Modi is expected to visit Japan for the second Quad in-person summit in Japan. Quad, involving India, US, Australia, Japan is been evolving fast amid the Chinese aggressive actions in the Indo Pacific. This is the first head of government/head of state-level incoming visit to India this year. Japan has been one of the closest partners for India in Asia and the world. The country has been involved in building major infrastructure projects, especially in India's north-east. PM had last year laid the foundation stone of a 20 km-long bridge over the Brahmaputra river between Assam and Meghalaya. Varanasi Convention Centre (Rudraksh) was inaugurated by PM last year where the then Japanese PM Yoshihide Suga had sent a video message. C The country has a major role in India's first bullet train or Mumbai-Ahmedabad High Speed Rail and in terms of defence, both sides have signed a Reciprocal Provision of Supplies and Services Agreement (RPSS). As part of getting a trained Indian workforce, India and Japan have signed the Specified Skilled Workers Agreement. Under Technical Intern Training Programme (TITP), 220 Indian youth have been sent to Japan to work. The Japanese side has since January this year started examination for nursing care under this programme. WATCH | WION Ground Report: The story of Kyiv's first responders ×

With Ukraine and Quad in focus, Japan PM Fumio Kishida lands in India today

The Russia-Ukraine conflict and China were discussed during the talks between Japan’s Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi, India’s foreign secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla said on Saturday.

Briefing reporters in New Delhi following the conclusion of the talks, Shringla said that both the leaders called for an immediate end to violence and emphasised on the importance of the safety &amp; security of nuclear facilities in Ukraine.

“PM Modi and Japanese PM Kishida exchanged perspectives on Ukraine today. They expressed the seriousness about the ongoing conflict and humanitarian crisis and assessed broader implications for Indo-Pacific,” the top official said.

“PM Modi &amp; Japanese PM Kishida emphasised on the importance of the safety and security of nuclear facilities in Ukraine. They reiterated their call for an immediate cessation of violence and noted that there was no other path than dialogue for resolving the Ukraine crisis,” he added.

When WION asked whether China’s aggression border aggression was raised during the meeting,&nbsp;Shringla responded, “Both the PMs discussed China. We informed Japan of the situation in Ladakh, the attempts of amassing the troops, &amp; our talks with China on border-related issues... Japanese PM also briefed us on his perspective vis-a-vis East &amp; South China sea.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/japan-pm-fumio-kishida-announces-42-billion-investment-in-india-463849">Japan PM Fumio Kishida announces $42 billion investment in India</a>

“We made it clear that unless we have a resolution of the border issues with peace &amp; tranquillity, we could not consider the relationship (with China) to be business as usual; normalcy would depend on the progress in issues we're discussing,” he added.

He also informed that India and China have signed three agreements on cyber security, sustainable development and wastewater management.

“We also concluded 7 loan agreements for official development assistance, in areas of connectivity, healthcare, water supply and sewage. Both sides agreed on work plans with the import of Japanese apples to India and export of Indian mangoes to Japan,” Shringla said.

Watch |&nbsp;Indian PM Modi, Japanese PM Kishida discuss Ukraine conflict, Indo-Pacific

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The Russia-Ukraine conflict and China were discussed during the talks between Japan’s Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi, India’s foreign secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla said on Saturday.

The Russia-Ukraine conflict and China were discussed during the talks between Japan’s Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi, India’s foreign secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla said on Saturday. Briefing reporters in New Delhi following the conclusion of the talks, Shringla said that both the leaders called for an immediate end to violence and emphasised on the importance of the safety & security of nuclear facilities in Ukraine. “PM Modi and Japanese PM Kishida exchanged perspectives on Ukraine today. They expressed the seriousness about the ongoing conflict and humanitarian crisis and assessed broader implications for Indo-Pacific,” the top official said. “PM Modi & Japanese PM Kishida emphasised on the importance of the safety and security of nuclear facilities in Ukraine. They reiterated their call for an immediate cessation of violence and noted that there was no other path than dialogue for resolving the Ukraine crisis,” he added. When WION asked whether China’s aggression border aggression was raised during the meeting, Shringla responded, “Both the PMs discussed China. We informed Japan of the situation in Ladakh, the attempts of amassing the troops, & our talks with China on border-related issues... Japanese PM also briefed us on his perspective vis-a-vis East & South China sea.” Also read | Japan PM Fumio Kishida announces $42 billion investment in India “We made it clear that unless we have a resolution of the border issues with peace & tranquillity, we could not consider the relationship (with China) to be business as usual; normalcy would depend on the progress in issues we're discussing,” he added. He also informed that India and China have signed three agreements on cyber security, sustainable development and wastewater management. “We also concluded 7 loan agreements for official development assistance, in areas of connectivity, healthcare, water supply and sewage. Both sides agreed on work plans with the import of Japanese apples to India and export of Indian mangoes to Japan,” Shringla said. Watch | Indian PM Modi, Japanese PM Kishida discuss Ukraine conflict, Indo-Pacific

India’s Modi and Japan’s Kishida discussed China and Ukraine conflict: Shringla

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Saturday announced a 5 trillion yen ($42 billion) investment in India over the next five years during a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi.

"We (Kishida and Modi) confirmed any unilateral change to the status quo by force cannot be forgiven in any region, and it is necessary to seek peaceful resolutions of disputes based on international law," Kishida told reporters after meeting Modi in New Delhi.

The two leaders were meeting to strengthen security amid the Ukraine crisis and improve economic ties between the two nations.

Japan in recent years has supported India's urban infrastructure development and the high-speed railway based on its bullet train technology.

A joint statement pointedly "underlined that the Quad must remain focused on its core objective of promoting peace, stability, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region".

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Kishida's office quoted him saying before meeting Modi that "Russia's aggression against Ukraine is an outrage that undermines the very foundation of the order of the international community, including Asia".

"Such unilateral changes to the status quo are also absolutely unacceptable in the Indo-Pacific region. During this overseas trip (to India and Cambodia) I will engage in exchanges of views with my counterparts about the situation in Ukraine and other matters and urge them to take action," Kishida's office tweeted.

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これからインドとカンボジアに行ってまいります。 <a href="https://t.co/WcfwP4WyIA">https://t.co/WcfwP4WyIA</a>
— 岸田文雄 (@kishida230) <a href="https://twitter.com/kishida230/status/1504953457563774976?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 18, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Unlike fellow members of the Quad alliance,&nbsp;Japan, Australia and the United States,&nbsp;India has abstained in three UN votes condemning Moscow's actions, calling only for a halt to the violence.

Ahead of Kishida's visit, the first by a Japanese premier since 2017, a Japanese foreign ministry official said Tokyo was "aware" of Delhi's "geographical location and historical ties to Russia".

Prime Minister Modi had spoken to PM Kishida on phone in October 2021 soon after he assumed office. Both sides expressed a desire to further strengthen the special strategic and global partnership.

This year also marks the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

The annual summit between Prime Minister Modi and his then Japanese counterpart Shinzo Abe was cancelled in December 2019 in Guwahati in the wake of massive protests rocking the Assam capital over the amended citizenship law.

The summit could not be held in 2020 as well as in 2021 primarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

In 2014, then-Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe announced 3.5 trillion yen in investment and financing over five years during a visit to India.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Saturday announced a 5 trillion yen ($42 billion) investment in India over the next five years during a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi.

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Saturday announced a 5 trillion yen ($42 billion) investment in India over the next five years during a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi. "We (Kishida and Modi) confirmed any unilateral change to the status quo by force cannot be forgiven in any region, and it is necessary to seek peaceful resolutions of disputes based on international law," Kishida told reporters after meeting Modi in New Delhi. The two leaders were meeting to strengthen security amid the Ukraine crisis and improve economic ties between the two nations. Japan in recent years has supported India's urban infrastructure development and the high-speed railway based on its bullet train technology. A joint statement pointedly "underlined that the Quad must remain focused on its core objective of promoting peace, stability, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region". Kishida's office quoted him saying before meeting Modi that "Russia's aggression against Ukraine is an outrage that undermines the very foundation of the order of the international community, including Asia". "Such unilateral changes to the status quo are also absolutely unacceptable in the Indo-Pacific region. During this overseas trip (to India and Cambodia) I will engage in exchanges of views with my counterparts about the situation in Ukraine and other matters and urge them to take action," Kishida's office tweeted. これからインドとカンボジアに行ってまいります。 https://t.co/WcfwP4WyIA — 岸田文雄 (@kishida230) March 18, 2022 × Unlike fellow members of the Quad alliance, Japan, Australia and the United States, India has abstained in three UN votes condemning Moscow's actions, calling only for a halt to the violence. Ahead of Kishida's visit, the first by a Japanese premier since 2017, a Japanese foreign ministry official said Tokyo was "aware" of Delhi's "geographical location and historical ties to Russia". Prime Minister Modi had spoken to PM Kishida on phone in October 2021 soon after he assumed office. Both sides expressed a desire to further strengthen the special strategic and global partnership. This year also marks the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries. The annual summit between Prime Minister Modi and his then Japanese counterpart Shinzo Abe was cancelled in December 2019 in Guwahati in the wake of massive protests rocking the Assam capital over the amended citizenship law. The summit could not be held in 2020 as well as in 2021 primarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2014, then-Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe announced 3.5 trillion yen in investment and financing over five years during a visit to India. (With inputs from agencies)

Japan PM Fumio Kishida announces $42 billion investment in India

The better we know how a machine works, the more likely we are to understand the ways and means of fixing any troubles that it may cause. What if that machine happens to be the human brain? That's where the complexity begins. <o:p></o:p>

To study almost any organ in the human body, there are both invasive and non-invasive techniques that doctors employ. But, when it comes to the human brain, studies aren't available in as much detail as doctors would require. It is to bridge this gap that experts from various domains have come together and established a 'Brain Centre' at the Indian Institute of Technology-Madras in Chennai. WION spoke to the key resource persons at this newly inaugurated centre, to understand their work and its applications. <o:p></o:p>

According to those working on this project, the work being performed at the 'Brain Centre', is an intersection of Neuroscience, Engineering, Medicine and advanced computing. It involves mapping the human brain (post mortem) in incredibly high resolution, at the cellular level. Simply put, it is like a mapping company taking billions of photographs of various places, streets, buildings, terrain on earth and combining them to make a digital world map.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/gulmarg-hosts-national-snowshoe-championship-463801" hreflang="en">Gulmarg hosts national snowshoe championship</a>

<o:p></o:p>

When queried about the purpose of such research, Prof. K. Vijay Raghavan, Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India, explained to WION that scientific understanding of the human brain (in terms of diseases) has been largely gained by looking at it from the outside and by testing certain drugs. "To understand the human brain better, we need to look at it from inside" he added on how the new facility would perform anatomy at high-resolution. <o:p></o:p>

Approved in February 2020, the new facility at IIT Madras was brought to fruition amid the pandemic and is now at a fully functional level. Over the last eight months, the facility has performed high-resolution imagery on three human brains (from cadavers), while mapping is to be commenced shortly. Over the next one year, they are expected to perform imaging of ten human brains.

<o:p></o:p>

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Experts associated with the lab tell me , their work is an intersection of of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/neuroscience?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#neuroscience</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/computing?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#computing</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/medicine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#medicine</a>.. They aim to make high-res images of human brain, Map it (like an earth map) to help better understand the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/brain?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#brain</a> , associated ailments etc. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BrainAwarenessWeek?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BrainAwarenessWeek</a> <a href="https://t.co/jPOJCMvaae">pic.twitter.com/jPOJCMvaae</a>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1505154932244058117?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 19, 2022</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

"High-resolution imaging of the brain is a complex procedure that requires the highest amount of technical precision, takes months of work and also consumes hundreds of thousands of gigabytes of storage space" said Prof. Mohanasankar Sivaprakasam, Department of Electrical Engineering, IIT Madras, and Head, Brain Centre.<o:p></o:p>

While imaging and mapping are half the battle, medical studies from the rest. "Rabies, Encephalitis, Parkinson's, Alzheimer's are all conditions that affect the brain. Unlike other organs, it is unusual to perform a biopsy (removal of tissue for analysis) on the brain. But, with a high-resolution digital reconstruction of the entire brain, we can identify how the diseases manifest and affect different regions, even at a cellular level" Dr. George Varghese, Professor, CMC Vellore told WION. <o:p></o:p>

At the intial level, the researchers have been working on imaging the brains of stillborns. Later, they will move to complex projects that involve brains from adult cadavers. As they progress, IIT Madras plans to train hundreds of undergraduate and postgraduate students at this Centre in neuroscience and computing, machine learning techniques on cutting-edge brain data.<o:p></o:p>

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Thread: In my hand is the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/3dprint?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#3dprint</a> model of the human brain(seen in vessel)..this brain will undergo high-res imaging, detailed mapping over next few months at <a href="https://twitter.com/iitmadras?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@iitmadras</a> newly-inaugurated ‘Brain Centre’ , which is also the first-of-it’s-kind in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/india?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#india</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/research?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#research</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/tech?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#tech</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/science?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#science</a> <a href="https://t.co/POPNYmBC09">pic.twitter.com/POPNYmBC09</a>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1505152306311938048?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 19, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Inaugurated on Saturday, the 'Brain Centre' at IIT Madras is supported by Mr. Kris Gopalakrishnan and Mrs. Sudha Gopalakrishnan. Known as the Sudha Gopalakrishnan Brain Centre, it is named after the wife of IIT Madras Alumnus Kris Gopalakrishnan, who is the co-founder of Indian IT services giant Infosys. <o:p></o:p>

The facility was inaugurated in the presence of Prof. K. VijayRaghavan, Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India, Prof. V. Kamakoti, Director, IIT Madras, IIT Madras Distinguished Alumnus Shri Kris Gopalakrishnan, Shrimati Sudha Gopalakrishnan, and Prof. Mohanasankar Sivaprakasam of IIT Madras, who will be heading this Centre. This state-of-the-art Centre aims to become a world-renowned research centre, generating unprecedented human brain data, scientific output and technology tools.<o:p></o:p>

The better we know how a machine works, the more likely we are to understand the ways and means of fixing any troubles that it may cause. What if that machine happens to be the human brain?

The better we know how a machine works, the more likely we are to understand the ways and means of fixing any troubles that it may cause. What if that machine happens to be the human brain? That's where the complexity begins. To study almost any organ in the human body, there are both invasive and non-invasive techniques that doctors employ. But, when it comes to the human brain, studies aren't available in as much detail as doctors would require. It is to bridge this gap that experts from various domains have come together and established a 'Brain Centre' at the Indian Institute of Technology-Madras in Chennai. WION spoke to the key resource persons at this newly inaugurated centre, to understand their work and its applications. According to those working on this project, the work being performed at the 'Brain Centre', is an intersection of Neuroscience, Engineering, Medicine and advanced computing. It involves mapping the human brain (post mortem) in incredibly high resolution, at the cellular level. Simply put, it is like a mapping company taking billions of photographs of various places, streets, buildings, terrain on earth and combining them to make a digital world map. Also read | Gulmarg hosts national snowshoe championship When queried about the purpose of such research, Prof. K. Vijay Raghavan, Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India, explained to WION that scientific understanding of the human brain (in terms of diseases) has been largely gained by looking at it from the outside and by testing certain drugs. "To understand the human brain better, we need to look at it from inside" he added on how the new facility would perform anatomy at high-resolution. Approved in February 2020, the new facility at IIT Madras was brought to fruition amid the pandemic and is now at a fully functional level. Over the last eight months, the facility has performed high-resolution imagery on three human brains (from cadavers), while mapping is to be commenced shortly. Over the next one year, they are expected to perform imaging of ten human brains. Experts associated with the lab tell me , their work is an intersection of of #neuroscience, #computing and #medicine.. They aim to make high-res images of human brain, Map it (like an earth map) to help better understand the #brain , associated ailments etc. #BrainAwarenessWeek pic.twitter.com/jPOJCMvaae — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) March 19, 2022 × "High-resolution imaging of the brain is a complex procedure that requires the highest amount of technical precision, takes months of work and also consumes hundreds of thousands of gigabytes of storage space" said Prof. Mohanasankar Sivaprakasam, Department of Electrical Engineering, IIT Madras, and Head, Brain Centre. While imaging and mapping are half the battle, medical studies from the rest. "Rabies, Encephalitis, Parkinson's, Alzheimer's are all conditions that affect the brain. Unlike other organs, it is unusual to perform a biopsy (removal of tissue for analysis) on the brain. But, with a high-resolution digital reconstruction of the entire brain, we can identify how the diseases manifest and affect different regions, even at a cellular level" Dr. George Varghese, Professor, CMC Vellore told WION. At the intial level, the researchers have been working on imaging the brains of stillborns. Later, they will move to complex projects that involve brains from adult cadavers. As they progress, IIT Madras plans to train hundreds of undergraduate and postgraduate students at this Centre in neuroscience and computing, machine learning techniques on cutting-edge brain data. Thread: In my hand is the #3dprint model of the human brain(seen in vessel)..this brain will undergo high-res imaging, detailed mapping over next few months at @iitmadras newly-inaugurated ‘Brain Centre’ , which is also the first-of-it’s-kind in #india #research #tech #science pic.twitter.com/POPNYmBC09 — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) March 19, 2022 × Inaugurated on Saturday, the 'Brain Centre' at IIT Madras is supported by Mr. Kris Gopalakrishnan and Mrs. Sudha Gopalakrishnan. Known as the Sudha Gopalakrishnan Brain Centre, it is named after the wife of IIT Madras Alumnus Kris Gopalakrishnan, who is the co-founder of Indian IT services giant Infosys. The facility was inaugurated in the presence of Prof. K. VijayRaghavan, Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India, Prof. V. Kamakoti, Director, IIT Madras, IIT Madras Distinguished Alumnus Shri Kris Gopalakrishnan, Shrimati Sudha Gopalakrishnan, and Prof. Mohanasankar Sivaprakasam of IIT Madras, who will be heading this Centre. This state-of-the-art Centre aims to become a world-renowned research centre, generating unprecedented human brain data, scientific output and technology tools.

Map the human brain, unravel its mysteries- that's the mission of this Indian Lab

The Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Department in collaboration with snowshoe federation today organized a national level tournament in Ski resort Gulmarg. Around 11 teams participated in the tournament from various states of the country. Teams of ITBP and Army participated as well.&nbsp;

The Jammu and Kashmir tourism department has been pushing for various winter sports activities in the valley. They have been adding various new sports activities to the already famous ski and snowboarding and now they have added snow cycling, snow rugby and the latest one is snow race.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-after-2-years-of-lull-indias-vrindavan-drenched-in-colours-as-people-celebrate-holi-463433" hreflang="en">After 2 years of lull, Vrindavan drenched in colours as people celebrate Holi</a>

''There are teams from 11 states and the best thing is that you have teams from 11 states including tropical places like south India's Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Pondicherry. We have three categories for the racing event. And this will be a starting platform for these sportspeople to start their career. Those who win in today's games would be a part of the Indian team who will later represent India at various International Events. '' said Zeeshan Khan, Assistant Director, Tourism Kashmir.&nbsp;

The sports persons from across the country had come for the event. Athletes took this opportunity to be a part of winter sports to further boost their stamina. The athletes from across the country appealed to the government to further develop the infrastructure so Gulmarg can become a learning ground for them.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/omar-abdullah-hits-out-at-filmmakers-of-kashmir-files-says-lies-projected-in-the-movie-463421" hreflang="en">Abdullah hits out at Kashmir Files filmmakers, says lies projected in movie</a>

''I am a part of winter sports teams, and I am a bronze medallist from Japan. I have been winning medals for the state for many years now. These winter sports events will further boost players to take up the sports. It will inspire youngsters from across the country to take up sports as their career. Gulmarg is so important for us to perfect our training. '' Muzamil Ahmad, Racer.&nbsp;

An athlete, Vishal Vishnu has been consecutively participating in the run and won Gold this year as well as the last. He says he practices running on the beach.&nbsp;

''I am a runner and have been practising for a long time. I won last year also and this year too. I hope this game is included in the Olympics and we get to participate. '' said Vishal Vishnu.

Gulmarg is being promoted as one of the best winter sports destinations. Many events were organized by the tourism department in the last few years. Now the government is working on developing the infrastructure to create a place where international level tournaments and competitions can be held.&nbsp;

''Snowshoe is one of the fastest picking winter sports games. We as Gulmarg are all over the globe. We are promoting tourism at every level whether it's regarding sports or other activities. We are the best Ski destinations in the world. We are working on building the infrastructure better to organize many more international events. '' said Ghulam Jeelani, CEO, GDA.&nbsp;

The government plans to hold many such events in the future.&nbsp;

The Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Department in collaboration with snowshoe federation today organized a national level tournament in Ski resort Gulmarg. Around 11 teams participated in the tournament from various states of the country.

The Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Department in collaboration with snowshoe federation today organized a national level tournament in Ski resort Gulmarg. Around 11 teams participated in the tournament from various states of the country. Teams of ITBP and Army participated as well. The Jammu and Kashmir tourism department has been pushing for various winter sports activities in the valley. They have been adding various new sports activities to the already famous ski and snowboarding and now they have added snow cycling, snow rugby and the latest one is snow race. Also read | After 2 years of lull, Vrindavan drenched in colours as people celebrate Holi ''There are teams from 11 states and the best thing is that you have teams from 11 states including tropical places like south India's Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Pondicherry. We have three categories for the racing event. And this will be a starting platform for these sportspeople to start their career. Those who win in today's games would be a part of the Indian team who will later represent India at various International Events. '' said Zeeshan Khan, Assistant Director, Tourism Kashmir. The sports persons from across the country had come for the event. Athletes took this opportunity to be a part of winter sports to further boost their stamina. The athletes from across the country appealed to the government to further develop the infrastructure so Gulmarg can become a learning ground for them. Also read | Abdullah hits out at Kashmir Files filmmakers, says lies projected in movie ''I am a part of winter sports teams, and I am a bronze medallist from Japan. I have been winning medals for the state for many years now. These winter sports events will further boost players to take up the sports. It will inspire youngsters from across the country to take up sports as their career. Gulmarg is so important for us to perfect our training. '' Muzamil Ahmad, Racer. An athlete, Vishal Vishnu has been consecutively participating in the run and won Gold this year as well as the last. He says he practices running on the beach. ''I am a runner and have been practising for a long time. I won last year also and this year too. I hope this game is included in the Olympics and we get to participate. '' said Vishal Vishnu. Gulmarg is being promoted as one of the best winter sports destinations. Many events were organized by the tourism department in the last few years. Now the government is working on developing the infrastructure to create a place where international level tournaments and competitions can be held. ''Snowshoe is one of the fastest picking winter sports games. We as Gulmarg are all over the globe. We are promoting tourism at every level whether it's regarding sports or other activities. We are the best Ski destinations in the world. We are working on building the infrastructure better to organize many more international events. '' said Ghulam Jeelani, CEO, GDA. The government plans to hold many such events in the future.

Gulmarg hosts national snowshoe championship

Union Health Minister Dr Mansukh Mandaviya on Thursday appreciated NGOs, stakeholders and healthcare workers for working tirelessly among the communities during the COVID-19 pandemic to support them in various ways.

"I seek your continued partnership for connecting with the communities to take healthcare services to them. Your work will be pivotal in enhancing awareness and accelerating uptake of e-health services (such as eSanjeevani, and tele-health) among the masses," the Health Minister said while delivering the keynote address at a webinar on 'India's Public Health Response to Manage COVID-19'.

Mandaviya further said that India's strategies of public health response have resulted in better management of the Omicron surge compared to many other countries.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/uk-foreign-secretary-to-visit-india-amid-ukraine-war-462955">UK foreign secretary to visit India amid Ukraine war</a>

"The management of the COVID-19 pandemic, and especially the recent Omicron surge, has strongly demonstrated to the world the power of strong political will, self-reliance through Atmanirbharta, innovation powered by technology, shared goals and collaborative efforts through a "Whole of Government" and "Whole of Society" approach".

He further said that the timely measures including test, track and treat approach with focused genome sequencing, containment through containment zones, community surveillance, protocols for home isolation and effective clinical treatment have in tandem contributed to India's COVID management.

During the webinar, the minister highlighted the steps taken by the country demonstrating various timely public health measures.

"At a time when many countries are reporting an increase in a number of daily COVID cases, India's daily cases have reported a substantial decrease, combined with an increased recovery rate, and high levels of vaccination," he added.

Applauding the collective spirit of the citizens, he said that "India's vaccination drive is testament to India's capabilities and power of the people without whom this journey, and this high level of vaccine coverage, would not have been possible.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-nitin-gadkari-inaugurates-indias-first-hydrogen-powered-car-462868">&nbsp;Watch | Nitin Gadkari inaugurates India's first Hydrogen-powered car&nbsp;</a>

"Despite the large population combined with geographical and sociological diversities, India has set global standards of COVID vaccination, he said adding that "One of the key achievements has been our capacity to deliver over 1.8 billion COVID vaccine doses across a multitude of regions and terrains.

"Speaking about the challenges India faced during the pandemic, he said,"the country has demonstrated that 'We can do it'".

Timely and prompt decisions for containment, management, treatment and vaccination were taken by India under the leadership and guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he stated. "We have shown the world what a decisive and powerful political will can achieve," he noted.

He highlighted the crucial role played by technology and how it was leveraged for increased accessibility of healthcare services during the pandemic through e-Sanjeevani, CoWIN portal for vaccination, Arogya Setu app etc. India's technological innovations have lent speed and efficiency to the country's vaccination drive, he stated.

Emphasizing the Indian Philosophy of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam'&nbsp;and 'Shubh Laabh', he said, "India has not only produced quality and affordable vaccines, but we have also exported medicines to more than 150 countries on humanitarian grounds. The Vaccine Maitri program of the Government has been lauded globally."

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Is India's neutrality on Ukraine backfiring?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-is-indias-neutrality-on-ukraine-backfiring-462979/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Union Health Minister Dr Mansukh Mandaviya on Thursday appreciated NGOs, stakeholders and healthcare workers for working tirelessly among the communities during the COVID-19 pandemic to support them in various ways.

Union Health Minister Dr Mansukh Mandaviya on Thursday appreciated NGOs, stakeholders and healthcare workers for working tirelessly among the communities during the COVID-19 pandemic to support them in various ways. "I seek your continued partnership for connecting with the communities to take healthcare services to them. Your work will be pivotal in enhancing awareness and accelerating uptake of e-health services (such as eSanjeevani, and tele-health) among the masses," the Health Minister said while delivering the keynote address at a webinar on 'India's Public Health Response to Manage COVID-19'. Mandaviya further said that India's strategies of public health response have resulted in better management of the Omicron surge compared to many other countries. Also read | UK foreign secretary to visit India amid Ukraine war "The management of the COVID-19 pandemic, and especially the recent Omicron surge, has strongly demonstrated to the world the power of strong political will, self-reliance through Atmanirbharta, innovation powered by technology, shared goals and collaborative efforts through a "Whole of Government" and "Whole of Society" approach". He further said that the timely measures including test, track and treat approach with focused genome sequencing, containment through containment zones, community surveillance, protocols for home isolation and effective clinical treatment have in tandem contributed to India's COVID management. During the webinar, the minister highlighted the steps taken by the country demonstrating various timely public health measures. "At a time when many countries are reporting an increase in a number of daily COVID cases, India's daily cases have reported a substantial decrease, combined with an increased recovery rate, and high levels of vaccination," he added. Applauding the collective spirit of the citizens, he said that "India's vaccination drive is testament to India's capabilities and power of the people without whom this journey, and this high level of vaccine coverage, would not have been possible. Also read | Watch | Nitin Gadkari inaugurates India's first Hydrogen-powered car "Despite the large population combined with geographical and sociological diversities, India has set global standards of COVID vaccination, he said adding that "One of the key achievements has been our capacity to deliver over 1.8 billion COVID vaccine doses across a multitude of regions and terrains. "Speaking about the challenges India faced during the pandemic, he said,"the country has demonstrated that 'We can do it'". Timely and prompt decisions for containment, management, treatment and vaccination were taken by India under the leadership and guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he stated. "We have shown the world what a decisive and powerful political will can achieve," he noted. He highlighted the crucial role played by technology and how it was leveraged for increased accessibility of healthcare services during the pandemic through e-Sanjeevani, CoWIN portal for vaccination, Arogya Setu app etc. India's technological innovations have lent speed and efficiency to the country's vaccination drive, he stated. Emphasizing the Indian Philosophy of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' and 'Shubh Laabh', he said, "India has not only produced quality and affordable vaccines, but we have also exported medicines to more than 150 countries on humanitarian grounds. The Vaccine Maitri program of the Government has been lauded globally." Watch | Gravitas: Is India's neutrality on Ukraine backfiring?

India's health minister lauds healthcare workers for working tirelessly during COVID-19 pandemic

India is celebrating the festival of colours, Holi which marks the triumph of good over evil. Watch ground report from the holy place of Vrindavan.

Holi celebration in Vrindavan: India celebrates the festival of colours

Airport security in India’s Jaipur were in for a surprise recently. They seem to have been well acquainted with people carrying pickels, papad, gold, cash, etc till now. &nbsp;&nbsp;

But what senior Indian Police Service (IPS) officer Arun Bothra was carrying in his baggage to Bhubaneswar seemed to be a very unique item. &nbsp;&nbsp;

So, do you want to know what it was? Well, it was peas. Yes, you read it right. &nbsp;

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Security staff at Jaipur airport asked to open my handbag 😐 <a href="https://t.co/kxJUB5S3HZ">pic.twitter.com/kxJUB5S3HZ</a>
— Arun Bothra 🇮🇳 (@arunbothra) <a href="https://twitter.com/arunbothra/status/1504073578265776128?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 16, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/couple-finds-biggest-potato-guinness-world-records-says-its-not-a-potato-462958" hreflang="en">Couple finds biggest 'potato', Guinness World Records says nope, not a potato</a>

Bothra, who seems to have been known for his witty tweets while pulling up violators online, became an inspiration for several memes and jokes on social media. &nbsp;

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No one.. 
 
Bothra sir , when not using twitter. <a href="https://t.co/VMdh10wqQm">pic.twitter.com/VMdh10wqQm</a>
— Bhrustrated 2.0 (@FunMauji) <a href="https://twitter.com/FunMauji/status/1504084788226920448?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 16, 2022</a></blockquote>
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The transport commissioner of Odisha said he had bought 10 kilos of peas for Rs 40 a kg. &nbsp;&nbsp;

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So you had peas-full journey 😀😀 <a href="https://t.co/QcLG6Ph0X0">https://t.co/QcLG6Ph0X0</a>
— Rekha Sharma (@sharmarekha) <a href="https://twitter.com/sharmarekha/status/1504077216132435974?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 16, 2022</a></blockquote>
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In a now-viral tweet, he wrote, “Security staff at Jaipur airport asked to open my handbag.” &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-present-a-theory-on-how-otherworldly-materials-helped-in-earths-formation-462803" hreflang="en">Scientists present a theory on how 'otherworldly materials' helped in Earth's formation</a>

It seems he could not resist buying things at a good bargain. As he was delighted to find peas at a low price, he bought them in bulk and arrived at the airport. &nbsp;

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You must be 'pea'nalised as this is a 'matar' of grave concern. He spilled the beans. <a href="https://t.co/MoqTEylnTu">https://t.co/MoqTEylnTu</a>
— Vishwas Ved (@vishwasved) <a href="https://twitter.com/vishwasved/status/1504338034526867457?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 17, 2022</a></blockquote>
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The incident has taken social media by storm and left several users, including several IAS and IFS officers, in splits online. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Airport security in India’s Jaipur were in for a surprise recently. They seem to have been well acquainted with people carrying pickels, papad, gold, cash, etc till now.

Airport security in India’s Jaipur were in for a surprise recently. They seem to have been well acquainted with people carrying pickels, papad, gold, cash, etc till now. But what senior Indian Police Service (IPS) officer Arun Bothra was carrying in his baggage to Bhubaneswar seemed to be a very unique item. So, do you want to know what it was? Well, it was peas. Yes, you read it right. Security staff at Jaipur airport asked to open my handbag 😐 pic.twitter.com/kxJUB5S3HZ — Arun Bothra 🇮🇳 (@arunbothra) March 16, 2022 × Also Read: Couple finds biggest 'potato', Guinness World Records says nope, not a potato Bothra, who seems to have been known for his witty tweets while pulling up violators online, became an inspiration for several memes and jokes on social media. No one.. Bothra sir , when not using twitter. pic.twitter.com/VMdh10wqQm — Bhrustrated 2.0 (@FunMauji) March 16, 2022 × The transport commissioner of Odisha said he had bought 10 kilos of peas for Rs 40 a kg. So you had peas-full journey 😀😀 https://t.co/QcLG6Ph0X0 — Rekha Sharma (@sharmarekha) March 16, 2022 × In a now-viral tweet, he wrote, “Security staff at Jaipur airport asked to open my handbag.” Also Read: Scientists present a theory on how 'otherworldly materials' helped in Earth's formation It seems he could not resist buying things at a good bargain. As he was delighted to find peas at a low price, he bought them in bulk and arrived at the airport. You must be 'pea'nalised as this is a 'matar' of grave concern. He spilled the beans. https://t.co/MoqTEylnTu — Vishwas Ved (@vishwasved) March 17, 2022 × The incident has taken social media by storm and left several users, including several IAS and IFS officers, in splits online. (With inputs from agencies)

Peas-full journey? Indian airport security stops IPS officer. Here’s what happened

India celebrates the festival of colours: Festival marks triumph of good over evil

Bangladesh Prime minister Sheikh Hasina has thanked Indian Prime minister Narendra Modi for the evacuation of Bangladeshi nationals from Ukraine's besieged city of Sumy.

Earlier this month, in a&nbsp;​carefully planned operation India was able to evacuate over 500 of its students. Along with the Indian students convey several Bangladeshi nationals &amp; one Pakistani national came out of the city.

In the letter on March 15, PM Hasina said, "I write to express my sincere thanks to you and your government for extending support and assistance in rescuing and evacuating some Bangladeshi nationals along with the Indians who were stranded in Sumy Oblast, Ukraine".

22500 Indian nationals have left Ukraine and reached home&nbsp;amid the deteriorating situation in the eastern European country. Russia invaded the country on February 24, following with India launched "Operation Ganga" to bring its citizens.

PM Hasina in her letter called the "wholehearted cooperation" during the Ukraine crisis by the Indian government has been a "testament to the unique and enduring relationship that our two countries have been enjoying over the years."

Sumy evacuation was the most challenging of all the operations&nbsp;given it required humanitarian corridors and cooperation from both Russia and Ukraine.

Indian mission in Ukraine had dispatched a special team of senior officers to the vicinity of Sumy and with coordination of military forces deployed there and the Red Cross to ensure a safe evacuation. India was able to evacuate 147 foreign nationals from 18 countries in the evacuation operation.

In the letter, PM Hasina recalled PM Modi's visit to her country last year&nbsp;for the celebration of the birth centenary of Bangladesh's father of the nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.&nbsp;

She pointed out that bilateral ties have been "further consolidated through meaningful engagements at all levels over the past years" and she is "confident that both Bangladesh and India would continue to stand by each other in all the time and work together to realize the collective aspirations of the peoples of the two countries".

Bangladesh Prime minister Sheikh Hasina has thanked Indian Prime minister Narendra Modi for the evacuation of Bangladeshi nationals from Ukraine's besieged city of Sumy.

Bangladesh Prime minister Sheikh Hasina has thanked Indian Prime minister Narendra Modi for the evacuation of Bangladeshi nationals from Ukraine's besieged city of Sumy. Earlier this month, in a carefully planned operation India was able to evacuate over 500 of its students. Along with the Indian students convey several Bangladeshi nationals & one Pakistani national came out of the city. In the letter on March 15, PM Hasina said, "I write to express my sincere thanks to you and your government for extending support and assistance in rescuing and evacuating some Bangladeshi nationals along with the Indians who were stranded in Sumy Oblast, Ukraine". 22500 Indian nationals have left Ukraine and reached home amid the deteriorating situation in the eastern European country. Russia invaded the country on February 24, following with India launched "Operation Ganga" to bring its citizens. PM Hasina in her letter called the "wholehearted cooperation" during the Ukraine crisis by the Indian government has been a "testament to the unique and enduring relationship that our two countries have been enjoying over the years." Sumy evacuation was the most challenging of all the operations given it required humanitarian corridors and cooperation from both Russia and Ukraine. Indian mission in Ukraine had dispatched a special team of senior officers to the vicinity of Sumy and with coordination of military forces deployed there and the Red Cross to ensure a safe evacuation. India was able to evacuate 147 foreign nationals from 18 countries in the evacuation operation. In the letter, PM Hasina recalled PM Modi's visit to her country last year for the celebration of the birth centenary of Bangladesh's father of the nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. She pointed out that bilateral ties have been "further consolidated through meaningful engagements at all levels over the past years" and she is "confident that both Bangladesh and India would continue to stand by each other in all the time and work together to realize the collective aspirations of the peoples of the two countries".

Bangladesh PM thanks PM Modi for evacuation of its nationals from Ukraine's Sumy

Italian musician Matteo Bocelli speaks to WION ahead of his first trip to India. Bocelli gets candid about music. Watch this report to know all the details.

Hitting the right notes: Matteo Bocelli speaks to WION ahead of his first trip to India

Holi, the festival of colours, It's one of the most exuberant festivals in the world. What are the legends and rituals of Holi? We look at different ways Holi is celebrated across India. Watch WION Wideangle with Ashwin Sanghi & Suhag A Shukla.

Holi: Legends & Rituals | WION Wideangle

Two days after taking oath as Punjab Chief Minister, Bhagwant Mann is set to get his first Council of Ministers, all first-timers, on Saturday. 
 
Former Leader of the Opposition and a prominent Dalit face Harpal Singh Cheema may be inducted as the deputy chief minister. Cheema retained his Dirba seat. 
 
The other probables in the Cabinet are Aman Arora, Kultar Sandhwan, Harjot Bains, Sarvjit Kaur Manuke, Baljinder Kaur, Gurmeet Singh Khudian, Neena Mittal and Kunwar Vijay Pratap.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-state-elections-2022-bhagwant-mann-is-aaps-cm-candidate-for-punjab-445647">&nbsp;</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-assembly-polls-even-before-eci-formal-announcement-aap-celebrates-a-revolutionary-win-in-punjab-460914">Punjab Election Results 2022: Even before ECI formal announcement, AAP celebrates a 'revolutionary' win</a> 
 
It is learnt the party leadership is keen to induct six to seven ministers in the Council of Ministers that has space for 17 ministerial posts, excluding the Chief Minister's. 
 
The remaining ministers will be inducted after a few months, a senior party leader told IANS. 
 
Sunam MLA Aman Arora is a prominent Hindu face of the party and is known for his proximity with Mann. In 2018, when Mann had resigned from the post of the state president after Arvind Kejriwal apologised to Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leader Bikram Singh Majithia on allegations of drug trade, Arora too had quit AAP. Both of them later rejoined the party. 
 
Arora defeated Congress'&nbsp;Jaswinder Singh Dhiman by a record margin of 75,277 votes, state's highest. 
 
First-timer Jivan Jyot Kaur, who emerged as the 'giant slayer'&nbsp;by showing the door to two political heavyweights -- Navjot Singh Sidhu of the Congress and Majithia, who were busy in mudslinging against each other, is likely to inducted a minister.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/2022-punjab-election-results-who-is-ajit-pal-singh-kohli-the-man-who-trumped-maharaja-of-patiala-460972">&nbsp;2022 Punjab election results: Who is Ajit Pal Singh Kohli, the man who trumped ex-CM?</a> 
 
Another first-time Kunwar Vijay Prartap, who once served as the Amritsar SSP, is AAP's big face who registered a victory in Amritsar North by defeating his closest rival and SAD`s Anil Joshi by a margin of 28,313 votes. 
 
Party's state co-in-charge Raghav Chadha has already clarified that the induction of the Council of Ministers in government is the prerogative of Bhagwant Mann, seting aside speculations that Arvind Kejriwal will be taking the final call from Delhi. 
 
The party is trying to maintain a balance in the Cabinet from the state's Malwa, Majha and Doaba regions. 
 
The Malwa belt can get more ministers as the party owns 66 out of the 69 seats in the region. In Doaba, AAP won 10 out of 23 seats, while in Majha, it won 16 out of 25. 
 
Also, this time AAP sent eight women legislators, five doctors, the richest legislator -- Kulwant Singh with assets of Rs 238 crore and won from Mohali -- and the youngest -- Narinder Kaur Bharaj, 27, to the Assembly. 
 
The AAP recorded a thumping win by claiming 92 of the Assembly's 117 seats. The ruling Congress won 18, down from 77 in 2017.

Watch | Gravitas: Big takeaways from India's state election results

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Two days after taking oath as Punjab Chief Minister, Bhagwant Mann is set to get his first Council of Ministers, all first-timers, on Saturday. Former Leader of the Opposition and a prominent Dalit face Harpal Singh Cheema may be inducted as the deputy chief minister.

Two days after taking oath as Punjab Chief Minister, Bhagwant Mann is set to get his first Council of Ministers, all first-timers, on Saturday. Former Leader of the Opposition and a prominent Dalit face Harpal Singh Cheema may be inducted as the deputy chief minister. Cheema retained his Dirba seat. The other probables in the Cabinet are Aman Arora, Kultar Sandhwan, Harjot Bains, Sarvjit Kaur Manuke, Baljinder Kaur, Gurmeet Singh Khudian, Neena Mittal and Kunwar Vijay Pratap. Also read | Punjab Election Results 2022: Even before ECI formal announcement, AAP celebrates a 'revolutionary' win It is learnt the party leadership is keen to induct six to seven ministers in the Council of Ministers that has space for 17 ministerial posts, excluding the Chief Minister's. The remaining ministers will be inducted after a few months, a senior party leader told IANS. Sunam MLA Aman Arora is a prominent Hindu face of the party and is known for his proximity with Mann. In 2018, when Mann had resigned from the post of the state president after Arvind Kejriwal apologised to Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leader Bikram Singh Majithia on allegations of drug trade, Arora too had quit AAP. Both of them later rejoined the party. Arora defeated Congress' Jaswinder Singh Dhiman by a record margin of 75,277 votes, state's highest. First-timer Jivan Jyot Kaur, who emerged as the 'giant slayer' by showing the door to two political heavyweights -- Navjot Singh Sidhu of the Congress and Majithia, who were busy in mudslinging against each other, is likely to inducted a minister. Also read | 2022 Punjab election results: Who is Ajit Pal Singh Kohli, the man who trumped ex-CM? Another first-time Kunwar Vijay Prartap, who once served as the Amritsar SSP, is AAP's big face who registered a victory in Amritsar North by defeating his closest rival and SAD`s Anil Joshi by a margin of 28,313 votes. Party's state co-in-charge Raghav Chadha has already clarified that the induction of the Council of Ministers in government is the prerogative of Bhagwant Mann, seting aside speculations that Arvind Kejriwal will be taking the final call from Delhi. The party is trying to maintain a balance in the Cabinet from the state's Malwa, Majha and Doaba regions. The Malwa belt can get more ministers as the party owns 66 out of the 69 seats in the region. In Doaba, AAP won 10 out of 23 seats, while in Majha, it won 16 out of 25. Also, this time AAP sent eight women legislators, five doctors, the richest legislator -- Kulwant Singh with assets of Rs 238 crore and won from Mohali -- and the youngest -- Narinder Kaur Bharaj, 27, to the Assembly. The AAP recorded a thumping win by claiming 92 of the Assembly's 117 seats. The ruling Congress won 18, down from 77 in 2017. Watch | Gravitas: Big takeaways from India's state election results

Bhagwant Mann to get first Council of Ministers on March 19

Russia’s war on Ukraine is causing a strategic re-think in Finland, which shares a 1300-km border with Russia.

Though Finland has remained militarily non-aligned, the country has been a member of the European Union and a partner of NATO. However, Finn leaders are now contemplating formally joining the NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization), a political and military alliance of countries in Europe and North America.

Notably, it was the growing proximity to the NATO and US that led to Russia's invasion and the ongoing war on Ukraine.

To better understand Finland's stance, WION spoke to Ritva Koukku-Ronde, Finland's Ambassador to India.

According to the diplomat, the Government of Finland is looking at the security situation in Europe and discussing to prepare a White Paper assessing their security situation, which will be followed by a parliamentary discussion.

She added that the country was having this discussion in a relatively short duration and also working closely with Sweden and NATO countries.

When queried on Russia's warning (threat of political and military consequences) against any move by Finland and Sweden to join NATO, she said that every independent and sovereign country has the right to make their decisions on choosing who their allies are and not.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-russias-advance-halts-in-ukraine-us-warns-china-over-backing-putin-463300">As Russia's advance halts in Ukraine, US warns China over backing Putin</a>

"It is the right of independent Finland to make own security and other decisions, just as it is for Ukraine. Of course, Ukraine's sovereignty should be respected and, in this case, Russia has strongly violated international laws and the UN Charter with its aggression. Finland, European Union and a majority of international community condemns this one-sided aggression.”

At a time when Russian troops continue their attack on Ukraine, Russia's “militarily non-aligned” neighbour Finland is taking part in 'Cold Response 2022', a military exercise of troops from NATO countries.

When this was pointed out, the ambassador said, "Finland is militarily non-aligned, but we are a partner in NATO, and we are traditionally exercising with NATO partners and Nordic countries. This exercise is also part of regular exercises which we had planned a very long time ago. The coincidence is now the Russian aggression, which has taken all of us by surprise.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/norway-prepared-for-up-to-100000-ukraine-refugees-says-pm-jonas-gahr-stoere-463453">Norway prepared for up to 100,000 Ukraine refugees, says PM</a>

On how Russia would see the ‘Exercise Cold Response 2022’ happening at this time, Finland's top diplomat said that it was for Russia, as an independent country, to think the way they do over these exercises.

However, she mentioned that Finland, as an independent nation, had the right to exercise its military capabilities and this exercise is a part of that. "Finnish defence is totally interoperable with NATO forces and it is good to train every now and then.”

"We always take our time on preparing carefully… The security assessment is underway… Most probably it would be completed during spring and let's see what happens after that and what is the situation,” she replied on the question regarding when Finland would decide on joining NATO formally as a member.

Russia’s war on Ukraine is causing a strategic re-think in Finland, which shares a 1300-km border with Russia. Though Finland has remained militarily non-aligned, the country has been a member of the European Union and a partner of NATO.

Russia’s war on Ukraine is causing a strategic re-think in Finland, which shares a 1300-km border with Russia. Though Finland has remained militarily non-aligned, the country has been a member of the European Union and a partner of NATO. However, Finn leaders are now contemplating formally joining the NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization), a political and military alliance of countries in Europe and North America. Notably, it was the growing proximity to the NATO and US that led to Russia's invasion and the ongoing war on Ukraine. To better understand Finland's stance, WION spoke to Ritva Koukku-Ronde, Finland's Ambassador to India. According to the diplomat, the Government of Finland is looking at the security situation in Europe and discussing to prepare a White Paper assessing their security situation, which will be followed by a parliamentary discussion. She added that the country was having this discussion in a relatively short duration and also working closely with Sweden and NATO countries. When queried on Russia's warning (threat of political and military consequences) against any move by Finland and Sweden to join NATO, she said that every independent and sovereign country has the right to make their decisions on choosing who their allies are and not. Also read | As Russia's advance halts in Ukraine, US warns China over backing Putin "It is the right of independent Finland to make own security and other decisions, just as it is for Ukraine. Of course, Ukraine's sovereignty should be respected and, in this case, Russia has strongly violated international laws and the UN Charter with its aggression. Finland, European Union and a majority of international community condemns this one-sided aggression.” At a time when Russian troops continue their attack on Ukraine, Russia's “militarily non-aligned” neighbour Finland is taking part in 'Cold Response 2022', a military exercise of troops from NATO countries. When this was pointed out, the ambassador said, "Finland is militarily non-aligned, but we are a partner in NATO, and we are traditionally exercising with NATO partners and Nordic countries. This exercise is also part of regular exercises which we had planned a very long time ago. The coincidence is now the Russian aggression, which has taken all of us by surprise.” Also read | Norway prepared for up to 100,000 Ukraine refugees, says PM On how Russia would see the ‘Exercise Cold Response 2022’ happening at this time, Finland's top diplomat said that it was for Russia, as an independent country, to think the way they do over these exercises. However, she mentioned that Finland, as an independent nation, had the right to exercise its military capabilities and this exercise is a part of that. "Finnish defence is totally interoperable with NATO forces and it is good to train every now and then.” "We always take our time on preparing carefully… The security assessment is underway… Most probably it would be completed during spring and let's see what happens after that and what is the situation,” she replied on the question regarding when Finland would decide on joining NATO formally as a member.

‘Security assessment underway, Finland could join NATO by spring', Finnish envoy to India tells WION

While the whole country is celebrating Holi, soldiers of Indian army, Para Military forces deputed in Kashmir Valley far from their&nbsp;homes celebrated it with each other. The soldiers in various districts of the Kashmir Valley splashed colours on each other. The regiment&nbsp;they belong to is what they call their&nbsp;family.&nbsp;

In Srinagar's 117 Battalion of CRPF, soldiers along with their&nbsp;teammates as well as their officers celebrated the festival of Holi. It's a day when they are all a family with no boundaries of ranks. Soldiers were dancing to the Bollywood songs and&nbsp;feeding each other sweets.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/dont-politicise-legitimate-energy-transaction-message-from-new-delhi-on-getting-discounted-russian-oil-463381" hreflang="en">Don't politicise legitimate energy transaction: India on Russian oil price</a>

''All the CRPF and people from nearby areas have come together to celebrate the festival. We are missing our families, but these soldiers are our family. We live together for the whole year and consider each other family. It's so good to celebrate festivals together&nbsp;with each other. '' said Manoj Kumar, CRPF soldier, 117 Battalion.&nbsp;

The security forces prepared various cuisines for the jawans to enjoy the day. The whole motive is to make soldiers happy and not feel as if they are far from their homes. To keep the morale high, various activities are organised for them as well.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sri-lankan-boat-with-six-crew-held-for-fishing-in-indian-waters-463221" hreflang="en">Sri Lankan boat with six crew held for fishing in Indian waters</a>

''We are all from different states of the country and our cultures are different. But these festivals bring us together. We celebrate the festival of Holi together. And as you can see there is only happiness all over. We should always spread love. '' said Krishan Kumar, CRPF Soldier.&nbsp;

Whether it is Holi or Diwali or Eid, security forces come together to celebrate these festivals with full fervour. They might be away from home, but they stand by each other while guarding the country.s

While the whole country is celebrating Holi, soldiers of Indian army, Para Military forces deputed in Kashmir Valley far from their homes celebrated it with each other.

While the whole country is celebrating Holi, soldiers of Indian army, Para Military forces deputed in Kashmir Valley far from their homes celebrated it with each other. The soldiers in various districts of the Kashmir Valley splashed colours on each other. The regiment they belong to is what they call their family. In Srinagar's 117 Battalion of CRPF, soldiers along with their teammates as well as their officers celebrated the festival of Holi. It's a day when they are all a family with no boundaries of ranks. Soldiers were dancing to the Bollywood songs and feeding each other sweets. Also read | Don't politicise legitimate energy transaction: India on Russian oil price ''All the CRPF and people from nearby areas have come together to celebrate the festival. We are missing our families, but these soldiers are our family. We live together for the whole year and consider each other family. It's so good to celebrate festivals together with each other. '' said Manoj Kumar, CRPF soldier, 117 Battalion. The security forces prepared various cuisines for the jawans to enjoy the day. The whole motive is to make soldiers happy and not feel as if they are far from their homes. To keep the morale high, various activities are organised for them as well. Also read | Sri Lankan boat with six crew held for fishing in Indian waters ''We are all from different states of the country and our cultures are different. But these festivals bring us together. We celebrate the festival of Holi together. And as you can see there is only happiness all over. We should always spread love. '' said Krishan Kumar, CRPF Soldier. Whether it is Holi or Diwali or Eid, security forces come together to celebrate these festivals with full fervour. They might be away from home, but they stand by each other while guarding the country.s

Soldiers celebrate Holi in Kashmir, while being away from homes

After two years of muted celebrations due to the Covid pandemic, thousands of people turned up at the holy cities of Vrindavan and Mathura in northern Uttar Pradesh on Friday to celebrate one of the important Hindu festivals, Holi.

In Vrindavan’s famous Banke Bihari temple, thousands of devotees gathered in large numbers to offer prayers to Hindu God Krishna.

With colours smeared on their faces and chants hailing the Lord, people stood in long queues to catch a glimpse of the deity while priests were seen playfully throwing colours at those who gathered.

In the neighbouring Mathura, believed to be the birthplace of Lord Krishna, hundreds of thousands of devotees gathered outside temples where they played Holi with colours and flower petals.

Holi marks the last full-moon day of the lunar month. The day is marked with sumptuous feasts and dancing to welcome spring.

The festival also celebrates the beginning of a good spring harvest season.

Though the festival is observed across the country, the celebrations in Vrindavan and Mathura draw&nbsp;foreign tourists the most.&nbsp;Because it is here where Lord Krishna is said to have visited his beloved Radha's town Barsana from Nandgaon in Mathura to celebrate the festival with her.

For the last two years, the festivities had been marred by the pandemic as restrictions were placed across the country to stop the spread of the pandemic.

However, most curbs have now been lifted as India witnessed a significant drop in cases with only 2,528 new COVID-19 cases being reported on Thursday. While death count rose to 5,16,281 with 149 fresh Covid-related fatalities.

The recovery rate in India has increased to 98.72 per cent and the case fatality rate was recorded at 1.20 per cent.

Watch | Holi celebration in Vrindavan: India celebrates the festival of colours

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After two years of muted celebrations due to the Covid pandemic, thousands of people turned up at the holy cities of Vrindavan and Mathura in northern Uttar Pradesh on Friday to celebrate one of the important Hindu festivals, Holi.

After two years of muted celebrations due to the Covid pandemic, thousands of people turned up at the holy cities of Vrindavan and Mathura in northern Uttar Pradesh on Friday to celebrate one of the important Hindu festivals, Holi. In Vrindavan’s famous Banke Bihari temple, thousands of devotees gathered in large numbers to offer prayers to Hindu God Krishna. With colours smeared on their faces and chants hailing the Lord, people stood in long queues to catch a glimpse of the deity while priests were seen playfully throwing colours at those who gathered. In the neighbouring Mathura, believed to be the birthplace of Lord Krishna, hundreds of thousands of devotees gathered outside temples where they played Holi with colours and flower petals. Holi marks the last full-moon day of the lunar month. The day is marked with sumptuous feasts and dancing to welcome spring. The festival also celebrates the beginning of a good spring harvest season. Though the festival is observed across the country, the celebrations in Vrindavan and Mathura draw foreign tourists the most. Because it is here where Lord Krishna is said to have visited his beloved Radha's town Barsana from Nandgaon in Mathura to celebrate the festival with her. For the last two years, the festivities had been marred by the pandemic as restrictions were placed across the country to stop the spread of the pandemic. However, most curbs have now been lifted as India witnessed a significant drop in cases with only 2,528 new COVID-19 cases being reported on Thursday. While death count rose to 5,16,281 with 149 fresh Covid-related fatalities. The recovery rate in India has increased to 98.72 per cent and the case fatality rate was recorded at 1.20 per cent. Watch | Holi celebration in Vrindavan: India celebrates the festival of colours

Watch | After 2 years of lull, India’s Vrindavan drenched in colours as people celebrate Holi

Former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Omar Abdullah has hit out at the filmmakers of Kashmir Files and told lies have been projected in the movie. It wasn't the NC government in 1990 but a governor’s rule under VP Singh’s regime.&nbsp;

Omar was addressing a rally today in South Kashmir's Kulgam district, where he spoke about the film. He also asked the director whether it was a documentary or a Bollywood film.&nbsp;

<a href="Mehbooba Mufti hits out at Indian government for aggressively promoting 'Kashmir Files' movie">Also read |&nbsp;Mehbooba Mufti hits out at Indian government for aggressively promoting 'Kashmir Files' movie</a>

''Many lies are projected in The Kashmir Files movie.&nbsp;&nbsp;It wasn't the NC government in 1990 but a governor’s rule under VP Singh’s regime and the Governor was Jagmohan. BJP was ruling at the centre,''&nbsp;said Omar Abdullah.&nbsp;

''Why haven't&nbsp;you shown that in the movie.&nbsp;You have shown Farooq Abdullah and not the reality. If Kashmiri pandits have died, we all are sad about it. But Muslims have died too. There are Muslims also who left and didn't&nbsp;return. Sikhs also left. We need to create an atmosphere to bring them back,'' he added.

Omar also said that the National Conference has always worked for the return of Kashmiri Pandits safely to the valley. But if movies&nbsp;like these are made, the makers want to make sure that these people should not return. &nbsp;

“But Kashmir Files movie film makers don't seem to be wanting the return of Kashmiri Pandits,” said Abdullah.&nbsp;

Former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Omar Abdullah has hit out at the filmmakers of Kashmir Files and told lies have been projected in the movie. It wasn't the NC government in 1990 but a governor’s rule under VP Singh’s regime.

Former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Omar Abdullah has hit out at the filmmakers of Kashmir Files and told lies have been projected in the movie. It wasn't the NC government in 1990 but a governor’s rule under VP Singh’s regime. Omar was addressing a rally today in South Kashmir's Kulgam district, where he spoke about the film. He also asked the director whether it was a documentary or a Bollywood film. Also read | Mehbooba Mufti hits out at Indian government for aggressively promoting 'Kashmir Files' movie ''Many lies are projected in The Kashmir Files movie. It wasn't the NC government in 1990 but a governor’s rule under VP Singh’s regime and the Governor was Jagmohan. BJP was ruling at the centre,'' said Omar Abdullah. ''Why haven't you shown that in the movie. You have shown Farooq Abdullah and not the reality. If Kashmiri pandits have died, we all are sad about it. But Muslims have died too. There are Muslims also who left and didn't return. Sikhs also left. We need to create an atmosphere to bring them back,'' he added. Omar also said that the National Conference has always worked for the return of Kashmiri Pandits safely to the valley. But if movies like these are made, the makers want to make sure that these people should not return. “But Kashmir Files movie film makers don't seem to be wanting the return of Kashmiri Pandits,” said Abdullah.

Omar Abdullah hits out at filmmakers of Kashmir Files, says lies projected in the movie

Thirty-four countries, including India, have confirmed their presence at the Commonwealth Summit that will take place in Rwanda later this year.

The CHOGM or Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting has been scheduled to start in the third week of June with President of Rwanda Paul Kagame being the host of the summit.

The Commonwealth is a group of 54 nations which were once part of the British Empire and are connected to each other on the historic ties.

Rwanda's High Commissioner to India Mukangira Jacqueline earlier this week said, “The commonwealth family gives an opportunity to Rwanda to share its knowledge and experience with other member states. CHOGM 2022 is a special occasion for Rwanda as host and incoming chair in the office.”

&nbsp;The key focus areas at the summit will be governance and rule of law, sustainability (economy and environment), health, technology &amp; innovation and youth.

CHOGM summit was due to take place in Rwanda's capital Kigali in June 2020 but has been postponed twice due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Speaking at the British High Commission’s celebration of the Commonwealth Day, the high commissioner highlighted, "Rwanda’s COVID-19 response has been swift and robust. Since the vaccination campaign started in late March 2021, over 95per cent of the adult population has been vaccinated in Kigali and 60 per cent across the country."

The official opening ceremony will be held on June 24 at the Kigali Convention Centre, followed by Heads of Governments Retreat is on the next day at Intare Conference Arena.

Welcome dinner is scheduled on June 26, which will be hosted by Rwanda President Paul Kagame and first lady Jeannette Kagame.

Work is on full swing for the summit. Preparatory meetings have taken place and a protocol guide was shared before the Liaison Committee Meeting that took place on February 22. &nbsp;There are three advance visits organised in March, both physically and virtually.

The last summit of the Commonwealth took place in London in 2018, in which PM Modi had participated. That was the first time that an Indian PM attended such a summit.

Prince Charles had personally visited India to extend an invite to PM Modi for the summit that year. There is no confirmation of PM's participation at the summit this year, but there is an indication that Indian participation could be at a different level.

The UK will be represented by The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall. For the UK, the group is important in a post-Brexit world, while for India it is the platform to reach out to Africa.

Around 19 members of the group are from African countries.&nbsp;Rwanda joined the Commonwealth in 2009 and will be hosting the summit first time.

High Commissioner Jacqueline said, “Although the youngest member of the family, Rwanda’s accession to the Commonwealth in 2009 was an indicator of the appreciation of the progress that Rwanda has made and strides it continues to make towards meeting its development goals, in line with the objectives set out in the Charter of the Commonwealth."

Thirty-four countries, including India, have confirmed their presence at the Commonwealth Summit that will take place in Rwanda later this year. The CHOGM or Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting has been scheduled to start in the third week of June with President of Rwanda Paul Kagame being the host of the summit.

Thirty-four countries, including India, have confirmed their presence at the Commonwealth Summit that will take place in Rwanda later this year. The CHOGM or Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting has been scheduled to start in the third week of June with President of Rwanda Paul Kagame being the host of the summit. The Commonwealth is a group of 54 nations which were once part of the British Empire and are connected to each other on the historic ties. Rwanda's High Commissioner to India Mukangira Jacqueline earlier this week said, “The commonwealth family gives an opportunity to Rwanda to share its knowledge and experience with other member states. CHOGM 2022 is a special occasion for Rwanda as host and incoming chair in the office.” The key focus areas at the summit will be governance and rule of law, sustainability (economy and environment), health, technology & innovation and youth. CHOGM summit was due to take place in Rwanda's capital Kigali in June 2020 but has been postponed twice due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Speaking at the British High Commission’s celebration of the Commonwealth Day, the high commissioner highlighted, "Rwanda’s COVID-19 response has been swift and robust. Since the vaccination campaign started in late March 2021, over 95per cent of the adult population has been vaccinated in Kigali and 60 per cent across the country." The official opening ceremony will be held on June 24 at the Kigali Convention Centre, followed by Heads of Governments Retreat is on the next day at Intare Conference Arena. Welcome dinner is scheduled on June 26, which will be hosted by Rwanda President Paul Kagame and first lady Jeannette Kagame. Work is on full swing for the summit. Preparatory meetings have taken place and a protocol guide was shared before the Liaison Committee Meeting that took place on February 22. There are three advance visits organised in March, both physically and virtually. The last summit of the Commonwealth took place in London in 2018, in which PM Modi had participated. That was the first time that an Indian PM attended such a summit. Prince Charles had personally visited India to extend an invite to PM Modi for the summit that year. There is no confirmation of PM's participation at the summit this year, but there is an indication that Indian participation could be at a different level. The UK will be represented by The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall. For the UK, the group is important in a post-Brexit world, while for India it is the platform to reach out to Africa. Around 19 members of the group are from African countries. Rwanda joined the Commonwealth in 2009 and will be hosting the summit first time. High Commissioner Jacqueline said, “Although the youngest member of the family, Rwanda’s accession to the Commonwealth in 2009 was an indicator of the appreciation of the progress that Rwanda has made and strides it continues to make towards meeting its development goals, in line with the objectives set out in the Charter of the Commonwealth."

34 countries, including India, confirm presence at Commonwealth Summit in Rwanda

Amid criticism by the West, especially from Europe over India buying discounted oil from Russia, sources in Delhi have said that "India's legitimate energy transactions should not be politicised" and "countries with oil self-sufficiency or those importing themselves from Russia cannot credibly advocate restrictive trading".&nbsp;

In the aftermath of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the US had announced that it will ban import of Russian oil, Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) and coal with Europe also emphasising that it will move away from dependency on Russian energy.&nbsp;

This has led to Russia offering discounted oil to many countries, including India, something that helps economic prospects for Moscow.&nbsp;

But Russian energy continues to be procured by various countries across the world, including many countries in Europe. 75 per cent of Russia's total natural gas exports are to OECD Europe like Germany, Italy, France.&nbsp;

Other European countries like the Netherlands, Italy, Poland, Finland, Lithuania, Romania remain large importers of Russian crude oil.&nbsp;

Sources highlighted that the, "jump in oil prices after the Ukraine conflict has now added to our challenges" and "the pressure for competitive sourcing has naturally increased".&nbsp;

India has not been importing crude from Iran and Venezuela even as New Delhi has been looking for sources that are not high cost.&nbsp;

India imports 85 per cent of its crude oil requirement, which translates into five million barrels a day with most of the imports from West Asia.&nbsp;

In West Asia, India imports, 23 per cent of its oil from Iraq, 18 per cent from Saudi Arabia, and 11 per cent from the United Arab Emirates.&nbsp;

The US accounts for 7.3 per cent of India's crude oil imports and could reach 11 per cent this year. Russia contributes to less than 1 per cent of Indian crude oil demand and there is no government-to-government pact for any import plan.

On Thursday, Ministry of external affairs spokesperson Arindam Bagchi in response to a question on importing Russian oil said, "as you're all aware, India does import most of its oil requirements. So it's met by imports.&nbsp;

So, we are always exploring all possibilities in global energy markets, because of this situation that we face of importing our oil requirement", adding, "Let me just highlight that a number of countries are doing so (importing Russian energy), especially in Europe".&nbsp;

In the aftermath of the fallout on the Russian energy sector, Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak had spoken to India's Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas Hardeep Singh Puri and invited Indian investment into the Russian oil and gas sector.&nbsp;

It was later reported that Indian state-run oil company Indian oil cooperation has brought 3 million barrels of Russian crude oil at a discounted price.&nbsp;

Sources pointed out that India has to focus on "competitive energy sources" and "we welcome such offers from all producers. Indian traders to operate in global energy markets to explore best options".

West has announced a number of sanctions on Russia and President Putin in the aftermath of invasion of Ukraine, but sources in Delhi explained that they "avoid impact on energy imports from Russia" and Russian banks which are the main channels for European Union payments for Russian energy imports have not been excluded from SWIFT.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;War crime accusations on Russia mounts as Blinken echoes 'war crime' rhetoric

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Amid criticism by the West, especially from Europe over India buying discounted oil from Russia, sources in Delhi have said that "India's legitimate energy transactions should not be politicised" and "countries with oil self-sufficiency or those importing themselves from Russia cannot credibly advocate restrictive trading".

Amid criticism by the West, especially from Europe over India buying discounted oil from Russia, sources in Delhi have said that "India's legitimate energy transactions should not be politicised" and "countries with oil self-sufficiency or those importing themselves from Russia cannot credibly advocate restrictive trading". In the aftermath of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the US had announced that it will ban import of Russian oil, Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) and coal with Europe also emphasising that it will move away from dependency on Russian energy. This has led to Russia offering discounted oil to many countries, including India, something that helps economic prospects for Moscow. But Russian energy continues to be procured by various countries across the world, including many countries in Europe. 75 per cent of Russia's total natural gas exports are to OECD Europe like Germany, Italy, France. Other European countries like the Netherlands, Italy, Poland, Finland, Lithuania, Romania remain large importers of Russian crude oil. Sources highlighted that the, "jump in oil prices after the Ukraine conflict has now added to our challenges" and "the pressure for competitive sourcing has naturally increased". India has not been importing crude from Iran and Venezuela even as New Delhi has been looking for sources that are not high cost. India imports 85 per cent of its crude oil requirement, which translates into five million barrels a day with most of the imports from West Asia. In West Asia, India imports, 23 per cent of its oil from Iraq, 18 per cent from Saudi Arabia, and 11 per cent from the United Arab Emirates. The US accounts for 7.3 per cent of India's crude oil imports and could reach 11 per cent this year. Russia contributes to less than 1 per cent of Indian crude oil demand and there is no government-to-government pact for any import plan. On Thursday, Ministry of external affairs spokesperson Arindam Bagchi in response to a question on importing Russian oil said, "as you're all aware, India does import most of its oil requirements. So it's met by imports. So, we are always exploring all possibilities in global energy markets, because of this situation that we face of importing our oil requirement", adding, "Let me just highlight that a number of countries are doing so (importing Russian energy), especially in Europe". In the aftermath of the fallout on the Russian energy sector, Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak had spoken to India's Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas Hardeep Singh Puri and invited Indian investment into the Russian oil and gas sector. It was later reported that Indian state-run oil company Indian oil cooperation has brought 3 million barrels of Russian crude oil at a discounted price. Sources pointed out that India has to focus on "competitive energy sources" and "we welcome such offers from all producers. Indian traders to operate in global energy markets to explore best options". West has announced a number of sanctions on Russia and President Putin in the aftermath of invasion of Ukraine, but sources in Delhi explained that they "avoid impact on energy imports from Russia" and Russian banks which are the main channels for European Union payments for Russian energy imports have not been excluded from SWIFT. WATCH | War crime accusations on Russia mounts as Blinken echoes 'war crime' rhetoric ×

Don't politicise legitimate energy transaction, message from New Delhi on getting discounted Russian oil

In order to aid rescue and relief operations that may be required after the impact of Cyclone Asani, the Indian Air Force is airlifting National Disaster Response Force team to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

A 126-member team of NDRF along with disaster relief material and equipment is headed for Port Blair on an Indian Air Force C-17 Globemaster III transport aircraft. The aircraft carrying the team lifted off from the Indian Naval base at INS Rajali in Tamil Nadu, on Friday morning. &nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/IAF_MCC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IAF_MCC</a> C17 Globemaster 3 heavy transporter aircraft at Naval base INS Rajali,Tamilnadu, being loaded to move <a href="https://twitter.com/04NDRF?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@04NDRF</a> 126-member team with equipment for any assistance at Andaman &amp; nicobar , in view of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CycloneAsani?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CycloneAsani</a> impact in next 4 days <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/indianairforce?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#indianairforce</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ndrf?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ndrf</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Rescue?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Rescue</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/NDRFHQ?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NDRFHQ</a> <a href="https://t.co/aCaqDKqEpD">pic.twitter.com/aCaqDKqEpD</a>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1504712209846661123?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 18, 2022</a></blockquote>
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According to the NDRF, the team is equipped with flood rescue equipment, collapsed structure search and rescue equipment and advanced communication equipment. &nbsp;&nbsp;

For any further assistance, additional teams have also been kept on alert at Arakkonam, where INS Rajali is situated. &nbsp;&nbsp;

<img alt="Brief 2" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a8aab053-cc9e-4c1f-9024-a028231a4204" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/NDRF%202.jpg" />

NDRF's round-the-clock control room is closely monitoring the developing situation and is in liaison with the NDRF headquarters and the respective administration for rendering immediate assistance. &nbsp;

The first cyclone of 2022, which has been dubbed as 'Asani', is brewing over southeast Bay of Bengal and is expected to bring heavy rainfall in Andaman and Nicobar islands from Friday, the Indian Meteorological department said. As per forecast, it seems that it will not have much impact on the east coast.&nbsp;

In order to aid rescue and relief operations that may be required after the impact of Cyclone Asani, the Indian Air Force is airlifting National Disaster Response Force team to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

In order to aid rescue and relief operations that may be required after the impact of Cyclone Asani, the Indian Air Force is airlifting National Disaster Response Force team to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. A 126-member team of NDRF along with disaster relief material and equipment is headed for Port Blair on an Indian Air Force C-17 Globemaster III transport aircraft. The aircraft carrying the team lifted off from the Indian Naval base at INS Rajali in Tamil Nadu, on Friday morning. @IAF_MCC C17 Globemaster 3 heavy transporter aircraft at Naval base INS Rajali,Tamilnadu, being loaded to move @04NDRF 126-member team with equipment for any assistance at Andaman & nicobar , in view of #CycloneAsani impact in next 4 days #indianairforce #ndrf #Rescue @NDRFHQ pic.twitter.com/aCaqDKqEpD — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) March 18, 2022 × According to the NDRF, the team is equipped with flood rescue equipment, collapsed structure search and rescue equipment and advanced communication equipment. For any further assistance, additional teams have also been kept on alert at Arakkonam, where INS Rajali is situated. NDRF's round-the-clock control room is closely monitoring the developing situation and is in liaison with the NDRF headquarters and the respective administration for rendering immediate assistance. The first cyclone of 2022, which has been dubbed as 'Asani', is brewing over southeast Bay of Bengal and is expected to bring heavy rainfall in Andaman and Nicobar islands from Friday, the Indian Meteorological department said. As per forecast, it seems that it will not have much impact on the east coast.

Cyclone Asani: Indian Air Force airlifts NDRF team to Andaman, Nicobar islands

Amid the shadow of the Russian invasion of&nbsp;Ukraine, UK foreign secretary Elizabeth Truss will visit India later this month. She is the first European foreign minister to visit India since the Russian invasion, an agenda that will dominate the talks when she meets external affairs minister Dr Jaishankar.&nbsp;

The invasion that started on February 24 has been a major geopolitical earthquake for Europe and the world and has led to the worst refugee crisis for the continent since World War- II.

The Indian, UK foreign ministers had spoken on the crisis in Ukraine recently. In a tweet on February 24, EAM had said, "A telephonic discussion with UK Foreign Secretary @trussliz. Exchanged perspectives on the Ukrainian situation."

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A telephonic discussion with UK Foreign Secretary <a href="https://twitter.com/trussliz?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@trussliz</a>. 
 
Exchanged perspectives on the Ukrainian situation.
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1496825405797711877?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Amid the Russian invasion, India's external affairs minister Dr Jaishankar has been engaged with foreign ministers of Poland, Romania, Hungary, Slovakia and&nbsp;Moldova for the evacuation of Indian nationals from Ukraine.

India, under "Operation Ganga" has been able to bring back 22,500 nationals home from the war-torn country.

The UK foreign secretary last visited India in October of 2021&nbsp;during which she visited Mumbai. Both sides are engaged in free trade agreement talks as well.

Amid the shadow of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, UK foreign secretary Elizabeth Truss will visit India later this month. She is the first European foreign minister to visit India since the Russian invasion, an agenda that will dominate the talks when she meets external affairs minister Dr Jaishankar.

Amid the shadow of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, UK foreign secretary Elizabeth Truss will visit India later this month. She is the first European foreign minister to visit India since the Russian invasion, an agenda that will dominate the talks when she meets external affairs minister Dr Jaishankar. The invasion that started on February 24 has been a major geopolitical earthquake for Europe and the world and has led to the worst refugee crisis for the continent since World War- II. The Indian, UK foreign ministers had spoken on the crisis in Ukraine recently. In a tweet on February 24, EAM had said, "A telephonic discussion with UK Foreign Secretary @trussliz. Exchanged perspectives on the Ukrainian situation." A telephonic discussion with UK Foreign Secretary @trussliz. Exchanged perspectives on the Ukrainian situation. — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) February 24, 2022 × Amid the Russian invasion, India's external affairs minister Dr Jaishankar has been engaged with foreign ministers of Poland, Romania, Hungary, Slovakia and Moldova for the evacuation of Indian nationals from Ukraine. India, under "Operation Ganga" has been able to bring back 22,500 nationals home from the war-torn country. The UK foreign secretary last visited India in October of 2021 during which she visited Mumbai. Both sides are engaged in free trade agreement talks as well.

UK foreign secretary to visit India amid Ukraine war

Oman's foreign minister Sayyid Badr Albusaidi will&nbsp;visit India next week. He is expected to be in Delhi from 23rd to 24th.

During his Delhi visit, Oman's&nbsp;FM will hold talks with external affairs minister Dr Jaishankar. Both ministers had met last in December in UAE on the sidelines of the Indian Ocean Conference.

The visit comes even as February saw a slew of high-level visits of Omani defence leadership to India. Oman's Secretary General of Defence Dr Mohammad bin Nasser bin Ali Al-Zabbi, Commander of Royal Navy of Oman ( CRNO) Rear Admiral Saif Al Rahbi had visited India last month.

February also witnesses a bilateral Air Force exercise in Jodhpur between India and the Oman Air force. The annual bilateral air exercise this year will see the participation of over 150 personnel from Oman.

Oman is India’s closest defence partner in the Gulf region and an important anchor for India’s defence and strategic interests. Defence, Shipping and people-to-people connect forms one of the key pillars of the relationship. India and Oman recently signed a White Shipping Exchange Agreement.

Cooperation amid covid has been a key area of convergence. Amid the pandemic, India released supply of 1 million HCQ tablets in April 2020 and&nbsp;later gifted 100,000 doses of&nbsp; Made in India COVID-19 vaccines to Oman in January 2021.

New Delhi also facilitated the return of Indian medical professionals to Oman and emerged as a reliable supplier of food and other commodities to Oman during the COVID-19 period.

Oman's foreign minister Sayyid Badr Albusaidi will visit India next week. He is expected to be in Delhi from 23rd to 24th. During his Delhi visit, Oman's FM will hold talks with external affairs minister Dr Jaishankar.

Oman's foreign minister Sayyid Badr Albusaidi will visit India next week. He is expected to be in Delhi from 23rd to 24th. During his Delhi visit, Oman's FM will hold talks with external affairs minister Dr Jaishankar. Both ministers had met last in December in UAE on the sidelines of the Indian Ocean Conference. The visit comes even as February saw a slew of high-level visits of Omani defence leadership to India. Oman's Secretary General of Defence Dr Mohammad bin Nasser bin Ali Al-Zabbi, Commander of Royal Navy of Oman ( CRNO) Rear Admiral Saif Al Rahbi had visited India last month. February also witnesses a bilateral Air Force exercise in Jodhpur between India and the Oman Air force. The annual bilateral air exercise this year will see the participation of over 150 personnel from Oman. Oman is India’s closest defence partner in the Gulf region and an important anchor for India’s defence and strategic interests. Defence, Shipping and people-to-people connect forms one of the key pillars of the relationship. India and Oman recently signed a White Shipping Exchange Agreement. Cooperation amid covid has been a key area of convergence. Amid the pandemic, India released supply of 1 million HCQ tablets in April 2020 and later gifted 100,000 doses of Made in India COVID-19 vaccines to Oman in January 2021. New Delhi also facilitated the return of Indian medical professionals to Oman and emerged as a reliable supplier of food and other commodities to Oman during the COVID-19 period.

Oman foreign minister to visit India next week

Holi in India

In an anti-poaching operation, Indian Coast Guard ship Vajra apprehended a Sri Lankan fishing boat with six crew members for fishing in the Indian Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).&nbsp;

According to the Indian coast guard, during a patrol ICGS Vajra detected a boat 117 nautical miles southeast of India's southern most district Kanyakumari. The coast guard patrolling vessel then closed in on the fishing vessel, which was seen with nets laid in the water.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SriLankan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SriLankan</a> fishing boat with 6 crew held by <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiaCoastGuard?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndiaCoastGuard</a> for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/fishing?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#fishing</a> in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Indian?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Indian</a> Waters SE of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/kanyakumari?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#kanyakumari</a> 
 
They had switched off ID equipment, despite knowing they wer in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Indian?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Indian</a> EEZ, tried to evade ICG, had 350kg catch 
 
Boat, crew taken to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/tuticorin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#tuticorin</a> and FIR registered <a href="https://t.co/b3kaHqbkqb">pic.twitter.com/b3kaHqbkqb</a>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1504459097017819142?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 17, 2022</a></blockquote>
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The Coast guard intercepted the vessel, while it attempted to flee and also conducted a&nbsp;search operation.

It&nbsp;revealed that the vessel has electronic chart displays and the crew were well aware of fishing in Indian waters. The crew members were also understood to have deliberately switched off the onboard automatic identification system. Besides a Tina like that was laid in the water, there was nearly 350kg of catch onboard.&nbsp;

The Lankan vessel 'Dinuka Putha-6' and its crew members were taken to Tuticorin port in southern Tamil Nadu following which an FIR was registered and the boat, the crew were handed over to Marine police. The foreign fishing vessel had violated the Maritime Zones of India Act 1981.&nbsp;

In an anti-poaching operation, Indian Coast Guard ship Vajra apprehended a Sri Lankan fishing boat with six crew members for fishing in the Indian Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).

In an anti-poaching operation, Indian Coast Guard ship Vajra apprehended a Sri Lankan fishing boat with six crew members for fishing in the Indian Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). According to the Indian coast guard, during a patrol ICGS Vajra detected a boat 117 nautical miles southeast of India's southern most district Kanyakumari. The coast guard patrolling vessel then closed in on the fishing vessel, which was seen with nets laid in the water. #SriLankan fishing boat with 6 crew held by @IndiaCoastGuard for #fishing in #Indian Waters SE of #kanyakumari They had switched off ID equipment, despite knowing they wer in #Indian EEZ, tried to evade ICG, had 350kg catch Boat, crew taken to #tuticorin and FIR registered pic.twitter.com/b3kaHqbkqb — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) March 17, 2022 × The Coast guard intercepted the vessel, while it attempted to flee and also conducted a search operation. It revealed that the vessel has electronic chart displays and the crew were well aware of fishing in Indian waters. The crew members were also understood to have deliberately switched off the onboard automatic identification system. Besides a Tina like that was laid in the water, there was nearly 350kg of catch onboard. The Lankan vessel 'Dinuka Putha-6' and its crew members were taken to Tuticorin port in southern Tamil Nadu following which an FIR was registered and the boat, the crew were handed over to Marine police. The foreign fishing vessel had violated the Maritime Zones of India Act 1981.

Sri Lankan boat with six crew held for fishing in Indian waters

The group of four Nepali nationals have returned and reached their homes safely under Operation Ganga by the Indian Government. Nepal thanked India for its timely evacuation from war-hit Ukraine.&nbsp;

Speaking to WION, Roshan Jha (24), a Nepali national who was rescued by the Indian government from Ukraine, shared his plight and expressed gratitude to Indian authorities.&nbsp;

Jha is a third-year student at Kharkiv National Medical University, who sought shelter in Ukraine’s subway system for five days to escape Russian shelling.&nbsp;

"There was firing and airstrikes happening above my house. The situation was tense. We slept in the metro station for almost five days with no water and food supply. We were out of cash and ATMs were also not working, "Jha told WION.&nbsp;

"On March 1, we left the metro station even with heavy shelling taking place to reach the railway station. We were on our own and we had to reach the Poland border from there we were assisted by the Indian Government," he added.&nbsp;

It took almost 12 hours for Jha and his Indian friends to cross the Poland border due to heavy snowfall.&nbsp;

Jha belongs to a small town called&nbsp;Badribas&nbsp;in&nbsp;Mahottari district of&nbsp;Nepal, and with the help of the Indian authorities he reached home to his family on March 9.&nbsp;

"I would like to thank the Indian Government, the Indian embassy there for evacuating us and arranging our travel. There was also a lot of help from the Nepal Government, the Nepal embassy in Berlin, and India to reach my home. I especially like to thank the Indian Government to evacuate us from Poland under Operation Ganga," Jha added.&nbsp;

The 24-year-old student also said that at the Poland border he was jostled by the Ukrainian nationals.&nbsp;Scores of Ukrainian nationals are leaving the country and seeking shelter in Poland.&nbsp;

Nepal Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba on Saturday expressed gratitude towards Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Indian government for evacuating four Nepali nationals from Ukraine.&nbsp;

"Four Nepali nationals have just arrived in Nepal from Ukraine via India. Thank you Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Government of India for the assistance in repatriating Nepali nationals through Operation Ganga," tweeted Deuba.

The group of four Nepali nationals have returned and reached their homes safely under Operation Ganga by the Indian Government. Nepal thanked India for its timely evacuation from war-hit Ukraine.

The group of four Nepali nationals have returned and reached their homes safely under Operation Ganga by the Indian Government. Nepal thanked India for its timely evacuation from war-hit Ukraine. Speaking to WION, Roshan Jha (24), a Nepali national who was rescued by the Indian government from Ukraine, shared his plight and expressed gratitude to Indian authorities. Jha is a third-year student at Kharkiv National Medical University, who sought shelter in Ukraine’s subway system for five days to escape Russian shelling. "There was firing and airstrikes happening above my house. The situation was tense. We slept in the metro station for almost five days with no water and food supply. We were out of cash and ATMs were also not working, "Jha told WION. "On March 1, we left the metro station even with heavy shelling taking place to reach the railway station. We were on our own and we had to reach the Poland border from there we were assisted by the Indian Government," he added. It took almost 12 hours for Jha and his Indian friends to cross the Poland border due to heavy snowfall. Jha belongs to a small town called Badribas in Mahottari district of Nepal, and with the help of the Indian authorities he reached home to his family on March 9. "I would like to thank the Indian Government, the Indian embassy there for evacuating us and arranging our travel. There was also a lot of help from the Nepal Government, the Nepal embassy in Berlin, and India to reach my home. I especially like to thank the Indian Government to evacuate us from Poland under Operation Ganga," Jha added. The 24-year-old student also said that at the Poland border he was jostled by the Ukrainian nationals. Scores of Ukrainian nationals are leaving the country and seeking shelter in Poland. Nepal Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba on Saturday expressed gratitude towards Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Indian government for evacuating four Nepali nationals from Ukraine. "Four Nepali nationals have just arrived in Nepal from Ukraine via India. Thank you Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Government of India for the assistance in repatriating Nepali nationals through Operation Ganga," tweeted Deuba.

Nepalese man reunites with his family, thanks India for evacuation from Ukraine

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