How does a GPU actually work? The technology behind modern graphics and AI

Macron’s awkward embrace with Iceland PM Kristrún Frostadóttir goes viral – What happened?

Aliens near US military base? Woman captures bizarre jellyfish-like UFO in Alaska | WATCH

'Miracle on the Mississippi': Cruise boat capsizes after colliding with tanker in New Orleans, all 180 passengers aboard safe

Why are modern GPUs so expensive? 7 things that drive graphics card prices

Why do graphics cards have thousands of small processing cores?

'Don’t f–k around!' Travis Barker opens up on quitting smoking after precancer diagnosis

CPU vs GPU vs NPU: Which processor does your computer actually need?

'Forbidden' light proposed 40 years ago detected for first time in the universe

Avril Lavigne welcomes first child, keeps baby's name and partner's identity private

Why did the FAA suddenly ground flights across the US? Officials reveal what went wrong

Reply 1988 star Ko Kyung Pyo under police investigation after drunk-driving collision in Seoul

Shape-shifting UFO sighting in Oregon leaves mother-daughter sick: 'Fell like a dead bird'

Vaaste singer Dhvani Bhanushali announces engagement to esports entrepreneur Yash Bhanushali; see pics

From chipmakers to cloud giants: How is Nvidia's stock crash shaking the AI industry?

Crystal-clear Ganga water in Haridwar? Viral video creates buzz online | WATCH

India backs death penalty at UN, says can't equate it with torture

Move over Ram and Ravan, Kunal Kapoor's Lord Indra in Ramayana is stealing hearts in Thailand

Eisenkot accuses Netanyahu of fuelling ‘racist’ campaign against Arab Israelis

Nvidia scandal exposes cracks in Trump admin as Bessent blames Lutnick over Megaspeed blacklist delay

Sheikh Hasina's return to Bangladesh: India seeks two assurances from Dhaka, says report

Chris Hemsworth and Elsa Pataky's Australian home targeted by burglars;  3 cars stolen

Ukraine's NATO membership in exchange for ceding territory to Russia: Zelensky reveals US proposal

'Don't hike rates': US Treasury Secretary Bessent warns Fed against rate increase amid Iran war

Trump, Putin and Xi to hold historic trilateral meeting at APEC Summit in China

Jensen Huang seen with wife Lori in Paris in photos shared by daughter Madison

A$AP Rocky's New York event disrupted by on-camera brawl, NYPD steps in

24 hours and counting: Microsoft says 'sorry' for global outage

CM Suvendhu Adhikari turns Bengal's Chhath ghats into launchpad for UP campaign

Mohamed Salah becomes Egypt’s all-time top scorer with brace against Malawi

Video captures horrifying moment Brooklyn apartment building collapses, killing eight people

Colombia 'false positives' scandal: 5 retired army men sentenced over killing of 35 civilians

'It exploded in his mouth': Man dies after friend gives him bomb disguised as rasgulla on Diwali in Madhya Pradesh's Dindori

Why do powerful graphics cards need so much electricity?

Indian student sentenced to 30 years in UK for online grooming of over 70 children

With the use of contemporary Bluetooth devices he had implanted in his ears, a medical student from India's Mahatma Gandhi Memorial (MGM) Medical College was caught cheating on his final MBBS exam.

On Monday, February 21, the incident occurred.

After failing the General Medicine exam for the past few years, the medico decided to take it one last time.

According to Indian media, he had been admitted to the college 11 years ago and had one more chance to clear it.&nbsp;

He was one of 78 medical students that took part in the examination.

The Devi Ahilya Vishwavidyalaya (DAVV) flying squad was on invigilation duty.

Dr Vivek Sathe, a DAVV member, frisked the student while he was writing the examination and discovered a cellphone in the inside pocket of his trouser.

The phone had been turned on and paired with a Bluetooth device.

The team, however, did not discover a Bluetooth device on the student.

He was hauled away from the exam and interrogated.

During questioning, the student admitted to surgically fitting a skin-colored tiny Bluetooth device by an ENT (ears, nose, and throat) surgeon.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

With the use of contemporary Bluetooth devices he had implanted in his ears, a medical student from India's Mahatma Gandhi Memorial (MGM) Medical College was caught cheating on his final MBBS exam.

With the use of contemporary Bluetooth devices he had implanted in his ears, a medical student from India's Mahatma Gandhi Memorial (MGM) Medical College was caught cheating on his final MBBS exam. On Monday, February 21, the incident occurred. After failing the General Medicine exam for the past few years, the medico decided to take it one last time. According to Indian media, he had been admitted to the college 11 years ago and had one more chance to clear it. He was one of 78 medical students that took part in the examination. The Devi Ahilya Vishwavidyalaya (DAVV) flying squad was on invigilation duty. Dr Vivek Sathe, a DAVV member, frisked the student while he was writing the examination and discovered a cellphone in the inside pocket of his trouser. The phone had been turned on and paired with a Bluetooth device. The team, however, did not discover a Bluetooth device on the student. He was hauled away from the exam and interrogated. During questioning, the student admitted to surgically fitting a skin-colored tiny Bluetooth device by an ENT (ears, nose, and throat) surgeon. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian student surgically fits bluetooth device to cheat in final MBBS exam

Indian teen teenage chess grandmaster Rameshbabu Praggnanandhaa spoke to WION after his stunning win against world number one Magnus Carlsen.

Indian teen chess grandmaster Rameshbabu Praggnanandhaa speaks to WION after stunning win

India’s Supreme Court on Wednesday refused to entertain a plea seeking cancellation of term-2 exams for classes 10 and 12 in the offline mode in view of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Supreme Court bench headed by Justice AM Khanwilkar and comprising Justices Dinesh Maheshwari and C T Ravikumar dismissed the appeal, saying that such a petition creates "false hope" and "confusion" for all students.

"Let the students do their job and let the authorities do their jobs," the bench observed.

Authorities are already working on finalising dates and other arrangements. If there is any problem once those are finalised, then the aggrieved parties can approach the authorities, "the bench further observed, while junking the plea.

The plea sought the cancellation of class 10 and 12 board exams conducted by all state education boards and central boards such as the Central Board of Secondary Education, Indian Certificate of Secondary Education, and the National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS).

The plea sought an alternative evaluation method by the educational boards or the conduction of exams online.

Last year, almost all state and central education boards had to cancel class 10 and class 12 final exams due to the second wave of COVID-19 and follow alternative methods of evaluation.

However, CBSE, CISCE, and some other state boards have decided to go with a two-term board exam system for 2021-22.

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has announced the dates for class 10 and 12 term 2 exams. The term 2 exams will be held on April 26.

Meanwhile, the Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations (CISCE) is likely to conduct the ICSE Class 10 and ISC Class 12 exams in the last week of April.

CISCE said in a statement that the detailed time table will be released shortly.

(With contributions from agencies)

India’s Supreme Court on Wednesday refused to entertain a plea seeking cancellation of term-2 exams for classes 10 and 12 in the offline mode in view of the COVID-19 pandemic.

India’s Supreme Court on Wednesday refused to entertain a plea seeking cancellation of term-2 exams for classes 10 and 12 in the offline mode in view of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Supreme Court bench headed by Justice AM Khanwilkar and comprising Justices Dinesh Maheshwari and C T Ravikumar dismissed the appeal, saying that such a petition creates "false hope" and "confusion" for all students. "Let the students do their job and let the authorities do their jobs," the bench observed. Authorities are already working on finalising dates and other arrangements. If there is any problem once those are finalised, then the aggrieved parties can approach the authorities, "the bench further observed, while junking the plea. The plea sought the cancellation of class 10 and 12 board exams conducted by all state education boards and central boards such as the Central Board of Secondary Education, Indian Certificate of Secondary Education, and the National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS). The plea sought an alternative evaluation method by the educational boards or the conduction of exams online. Last year, almost all state and central education boards had to cancel class 10 and class 12 final exams due to the second wave of COVID-19 and follow alternative methods of evaluation. However, CBSE, CISCE, and some other state boards have decided to go with a two-term board exam system for 2021-22. The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has announced the dates for class 10 and 12 term 2 exams. The term 2 exams will be held on April 26. Meanwhile, the Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations (CISCE) is likely to conduct the ICSE Class 10 and ISC Class 12 exams in the last week of April. CISCE said in a statement that the detailed time table will be released shortly. (With contributions from agencies)

India’s Supreme Court junks plea seeking cancellation of class 10 & 12 exams

Fresh snowfall in the Kashmir Valley has disrupted normal life and has also affected air traffic, road connectivity and electricity. After the snowfall led to landslides, the Jammu and Kashmir National Highway has been closed for traffic. All inbound, as well as outgoing flights at Srinagar, have been cancelled.

"All flights of SpiceJet Airlines have also been cancelled. There is no improvement in weather," said Director, Srinagar Airport.&nbsp;

Snowfall has led to stoppage of train service from Baramulla to Banihal. The highways leading from Srinagar to other districts are closed too as the government is clearing the snow from roads.&nbsp;

<img alt="Kashmir" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="09659e31-80ec-4e9d-8a92-adad7a4d198c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Image%20%2813%29_0.jpeg" />

The snowfall has caused major damage to the transmission lines and poles. This has caused power cut across the valley. This has affected Srinagar especially. The power department said that 60 per cent damage has occurred to the transmission lines across the Kashmir Valley.&nbsp;

"65% of the system is down. Restoration work is going on and restoration of 800-900MW is expected by evening," said Chief Engineer, KPDCL.

<img alt="Electricity" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7f5f5fb2-ec0a-4eb9-a098-57f56b8c4e1e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Image%20%2812%29_0.jpeg" />

The snowfall has also damaged houses across the Kashmir Valley. A family of six was rescued by the administration when their house collapsed due to the snowfall in Tangmarg Aharbal area of Kulgam district. They were moved to a safer place.

All exams of colleges, universities and institutes that were scheduled to take place on Wednesday were postponed. The administration has issued helpline numbers for every district.&nbsp;

Fresh snowfall in the Kashmir Valley has disrupted normal life and has also affected air traffic, road connectivity and electricity. After the snowfall led to landslides, the Jammu and Kashmir National Highway has been closed for traffic.

Fresh snowfall in the Kashmir Valley has disrupted normal life and has also affected air traffic, road connectivity and electricity. After the snowfall led to landslides, the Jammu and Kashmir National Highway has been closed for traffic. All inbound, as well as outgoing flights at Srinagar, have been cancelled. "All flights of SpiceJet Airlines have also been cancelled. There is no improvement in weather," said Director, Srinagar Airport. Snowfall has led to stoppage of train service from Baramulla to Banihal. The highways leading from Srinagar to other districts are closed too as the government is clearing the snow from roads. The snowfall has caused major damage to the transmission lines and poles. This has caused power cut across the valley. This has affected Srinagar especially. The power department said that 60 per cent damage has occurred to the transmission lines across the Kashmir Valley. "65% of the system is down. Restoration work is going on and restoration of 800-900MW is expected by evening," said Chief Engineer, KPDCL. The snowfall has also damaged houses across the Kashmir Valley. A family of six was rescued by the administration when their house collapsed due to the snowfall in Tangmarg Aharbal area of Kulgam district. They were moved to a safer place. All exams of colleges, universities and institutes that were scheduled to take place on Wednesday were postponed. The administration has issued helpline numbers for every district.

Snow disrupts life in Kashmir, flights cancelled, national highway closed

As tensions continue to escalate between Russia and Ukraine, India's permanent representative to UN TS Tirumurti has now said that escalation along the border is matter of a deep concern and diplomacy is the only solution.

UNSC Meet: 'Escalation of Russia-Ukraine crisis a matter of deep concern,' says India's TS Tirumurti

The Indian government called for immediate de-escalation on the Russia-Ukraine crisis and also for taking into account legitimate security interests of all countries.

Ukraine-Russia tensions: India calls for dialogue, immediate de-escalation

At an emergency session of the security council on Ukraine, India while expressing its "concern" has called for "de-escalation of tensions".&nbsp;

The session was held hours after Russian President Vladimir Putin announced recognition of Eastern Ukraine's Donetsk and Luhansk as independent states.&nbsp;

India's envoy to the United Nations TS Tirumurti said, "escalation of tension along the border of Ukraine with the Russian Federation is a matter of deep concern" and these "developments have the potential to undermine peace and security of the region".&nbsp;

Calling for "restraint on all sides", the envoy said, "immediate priority is a de-escalation of tensions taking into account the legitimate security interests of all countries and aimed towards securing long term peace and stability in the region and beyond."&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vladimir-putin-orders-troops-into-eastern-ukraine-key-points-from-his-crucial-address-455210">Vladimir Putin orders troops into eastern Ukraine: Key points from his crucial address</a>

The meeting happened after Ukraine sent a letter asking for an emergency session. Following this many countries, led by the US asked for the meeting. Interestingly, Russia is the President of the Security Council for February.&nbsp;

The Indian envoy emphasising "diplomatic dialogue" welcomed the efforts through "Trilateral Contact Group and under the Normandy format", warning that "we cannot afford to have a military escalation."&nbsp;

He also mentioned the Minsk pacts which he said: "Provide a basis for a negotiated and peaceful settlement". Minsk pact which includes Russia, Ukraine, Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe OSCE is a 2014/2015 agreement that calls for a ceasefire in Eastern Ukraine regions of Donetsk, Luhansk and others among other things.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explainer-what-will-russian-recognition-of-breakaway-ukraine-regions-mean-455193">Explainer: What will Russian recognition of breakaway Ukraine regions mean?</a>

The Normandy format of talks includes Germany, France and members of the Minsk pact and basically focuses on the pact's implementation.&nbsp;

At the meet, envoy Tirumurti said, "constructive diplomacy is need of the hour to avoid scaling up of tensions" and reiterate that the "well-being of Indian nationals is of priority to us."&nbsp;

Around twenty thousand Indian students and nationals live and study in different parts of Ukraine.&nbsp;

India has been making efforts to bring back its nationals from the country and two advisories have been issued. Special Air India flights have been started as well to bring the stranded Indian nationals.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ukraine-russia-tensions-india-calls-for-dialogue-immediate-de-escalation-455216/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

At an emergency session of the security council on Ukraine, India while expressing its "concern" has called for "de-escalation of tensions". The session was held hours after Russian President Vladimir Putin announced recognition of Eastern Ukraine's Donetsk and Luhansk as independent states.

At an emergency session of the security council on Ukraine, India while expressing its "concern" has called for "de-escalation of tensions". The session was held hours after Russian President Vladimir Putin announced recognition of Eastern Ukraine's Donetsk and Luhansk as independent states. India's envoy to the United Nations TS Tirumurti said, "escalation of tension along the border of Ukraine with the Russian Federation is a matter of deep concern" and these "developments have the potential to undermine peace and security of the region". Calling for "restraint on all sides", the envoy said, "immediate priority is a de-escalation of tensions taking into account the legitimate security interests of all countries and aimed towards securing long term peace and stability in the region and beyond." ALSO READ | Vladimir Putin orders troops into eastern Ukraine: Key points from his crucial address The meeting happened after Ukraine sent a letter asking for an emergency session. Following this many countries, led by the US asked for the meeting. Interestingly, Russia is the President of the Security Council for February. The Indian envoy emphasising "diplomatic dialogue" welcomed the efforts through "Trilateral Contact Group and under the Normandy format", warning that "we cannot afford to have a military escalation." He also mentioned the Minsk pacts which he said: "Provide a basis for a negotiated and peaceful settlement". Minsk pact which includes Russia, Ukraine, Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe OSCE is a 2014/2015 agreement that calls for a ceasefire in Eastern Ukraine regions of Donetsk, Luhansk and others among other things. ALSO READ | Explainer: What will Russian recognition of breakaway Ukraine regions mean? The Normandy format of talks includes Germany, France and members of the Minsk pact and basically focuses on the pact's implementation. At the meet, envoy Tirumurti said, "constructive diplomacy is need of the hour to avoid scaling up of tensions" and reiterate that the "well-being of Indian nationals is of priority to us." Around twenty thousand Indian students and nationals live and study in different parts of Ukraine. India has been making efforts to bring back its nationals from the country and two advisories have been issued. Special Air India flights have been started as well to bring the stranded Indian nationals. ×

Ukraine crisis: India expresses concerns; calls for de-escalation of tensions

Many tens of thousands of people are targeted by cons dubbed "romance scams" every year, their numbers skyrocketing during the Covid pandemic when lockdowns sent people flocking to the internet seeking a salve for isolation.

Ramesh Kumar Swain, who married and defrauded and married 27 women from ten different states for money is being called India's 'Tinder Swindler.'

The 66-year-old con man was arrested by the Odisha police while he was travelling in a car in Bhubaneswar.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-scammers-loot-more-than-80-million-on-dating-apps-gravitas-334155/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

''Though he looked more than 60 in real life, his victims ignored it while considering his government job. Swain took full advantage of the women’s helplessness and laid elaborate traps,'' said Bhubaneswar deputy commissioner Umashankar Dash.

Among one of Odisha's most notorious fraudsters, Swain targeted women that were middle-aged, educated, and well-off but were coping with divorce, or had family issues.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/gangubai-kathiawadi-to-gehraiyaan-movies-and-shows-to-look-out-for-in-february-2022-449242">Also see |&nbsp;'Gangubai Kathiawadi' to 'Gehraiyaan': Movies and shows to look out for in February 2022</a>

Although he has has only 5 feet 2 inches tall and passed Class X, he has been accused of defrauding 13 banks in Kerala of Rs 1 crore ($1.3 million) using 128 forged credit cards.&nbsp;

He also swindled parents in Hyderabad of Rs 2 crore ($2.7 million) by promising their children seats in MBBS courses.

The US Federal Trade Commission, tracking scams reported to its Consumer Sentinel Network, said 2021 saw a record $547 million stolen in romance scams. This marked a nearly 80 percent increase compared to the year before.

Those figures cap an upward trend that leapt in the first year of the pandemic. People reported to the FTC losing $1.3 billion to the scams over the past five years, the most of any fraud category.&nbsp;

But it is just the tip of the iceberg, the FTC notes, as the vast majority of cons go unreported.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/indian-origin-husband-forged-wifes-signature-for-divorce-she-remained-unaware-about-it-for-12-years-455103" hreflang="en">Indian-origin husband forged wife's signature for divorce; she remained unaware about it for 12 years</a>

Tim McGuinness, founder of the non-profit Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams (SCARS), said numbers soared because of "the isolation, the loneliness and the utilisation of the web as virtually the exclusive communication tool" during the pandemic.

Covid offers new ruses

Cancelled dates over supposedly positive Covid tests and disrupted travel plans due to lockdowns are ruses that feed into the well-worn script of romance scammers, the FTC warned.

While awareness is growing, through support groups, online forums and even a recent documentary on Netflix "The Tinder Swindler," many still fall prey to elaborate cons spun to get into a victim's heart.

Scammers, many based in West Africa, will adopt fake identities, often saying they work abroad and travel a lot or are in the military,&nbsp;providing ready-made excuses for why they can't meet in person.

A period of intense contact is followed by requests to wire money for plane tickets, visa fees, medical expenses or other emergencies,&nbsp;always with the promise of paying the amount back when they are finally united.

The internet was already a low-cost, high-return field, but scammers, often working in teams, now hunt everywhere from Instagram to online games like Words with Friends.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Many tens of thousands of people are targeted by cons dubbed "romance scams" every year, their numbers skyrocketing during the Covid pandemic when lockdowns sent people flocking to the internet seeking a salve for isolation.

Many tens of thousands of people are targeted by cons dubbed "romance scams" every year, their numbers skyrocketing during the Covid pandemic when lockdowns sent people flocking to the internet seeking a salve for isolation. Ramesh Kumar Swain, who married and defrauded and married 27 women from ten different states for money is being called India's 'Tinder Swindler.' The 66-year-old con man was arrested by the Odisha police while he was travelling in a car in Bhubaneswar. ''Though he looked more than 60 in real life, his victims ignored it while considering his government job. Swain took full advantage of the women’s helplessness and laid elaborate traps,'' said Bhubaneswar deputy commissioner Umashankar Dash. Among one of Odisha's most notorious fraudsters, Swain targeted women that were middle-aged, educated, and well-off but were coping with divorce, or had family issues. Also see | 'Gangubai Kathiawadi' to 'Gehraiyaan': Movies and shows to look out for in February 2022 Although he has has only 5 feet 2 inches tall and passed Class X, he has been accused of defrauding 13 banks in Kerala of Rs 1 crore ($1.3 million) using 128 forged credit cards. He also swindled parents in Hyderabad of Rs 2 crore ($2.7 million) by promising their children seats in MBBS courses. The US Federal Trade Commission, tracking scams reported to its Consumer Sentinel Network, said 2021 saw a record $547 million stolen in romance scams. This marked a nearly 80 percent increase compared to the year before. Those figures cap an upward trend that leapt in the first year of the pandemic. People reported to the FTC losing $1.3 billion to the scams over the past five years, the most of any fraud category. But it is just the tip of the iceberg, the FTC notes, as the vast majority of cons go unreported. Also read | Indian-origin husband forged wife's signature for divorce; she remained unaware about it for 12 years Tim McGuinness, founder of the non-profit Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams (SCARS), said numbers soared because of "the isolation, the loneliness and the utilisation of the web as virtually the exclusive communication tool" during the pandemic. Covid offers new ruses Cancelled dates over supposedly positive Covid tests and disrupted travel plans due to lockdowns are ruses that feed into the well-worn script of romance scammers, the FTC warned. While awareness is growing, through support groups, online forums and even a recent documentary on Netflix "The Tinder Swindler," many still fall prey to elaborate cons spun to get into a victim's heart. Scammers, many based in West Africa, will adopt fake identities, often saying they work abroad and travel a lot or are in the military, providing ready-made excuses for why they can't meet in person. A period of intense contact is followed by requests to wire money for plane tickets, visa fees, medical expenses or other emergencies, always with the promise of paying the amount back when they are finally united. The internet was already a low-cost, high-return field, but scammers, often working in teams, now hunt everywhere from Instagram to online games like Words with Friends. (With inputs from agencies)

This 66-year-old man who married and conned 27 women is being called India's 'Tinder Swindler'

Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan has said he wants a TV debate with Indian counterpart Narendra Modi.

"I would love to debate with Narendra Modi on TV," Khan told Russia Today in an interview, adding that it would be beneficial for the billion people in the subcontinent if differences could be resolved through debate.

The nuclear-powered rivals have shared antagonistic relations since gaining independence 75 years ago and have fought three wars with each other.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-pak-govt-eyes-citizens-gold-to-escape-financial-woes-455185/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Meanwhile, Abdul Razak Dawood, adviser to Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on commerce, has backed the resumption of trade with India, which was suspended by Islamabad in August 2019 after New Delhi revoked the special status of Jammu and Kashmir.

Trade with India is the need of the hour and beneficial to both countries, Dawood said at a media interaction on Sunday, Dawn News reported.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-didnt-take-action-against-terrorists-as-groups-targeting-india-continue-to-operate-us-report-437657">Also read |&nbsp;Pakistan didn't take action against terrorists as groups targeting India continue to operate: US report</a>

"As far as the ministry of commerce is concerned, its position is to do trade with India. And my stance is that we should do trade with India and it should be opened now," said Dawood, who also serves as the Prime Minister's Adviser on Textile, Industry, Production, and Investment.

"Trade with India is very beneficial to all, especially Pakistan. And I support it," he added, according to the Dawn News report.

Reiterating his views Khan said Pakistan's regional trading options were already limited, with Iran, its southwestern neighbour, under US&nbsp;sanctions and Afghanistan, to the west, involved in decades of war.

Pakistan shares strong economic ties with its northern neighbour, China, which has committed billions of dollars for infrastructure and other projects under its Belt and Road Initiative.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/why-china-and-pakistan-are-not-true-allies-432477">Also read |&nbsp;Why China and Pakistan are not true allies?</a>

Khan's interview came on the eve of a visit to Moscow, where he will meet President Vladimir Putin,&nbsp;the first visit by a Pakistani leader to Russia in two decades.

The two-day visit for talks on economic cooperation was planned before the current crisis over Ukraine.

"This doesn’t concern us, we have a bilateral relation with Russia and we really want to strength it," Khan said of the Ukraine crisis.

In March, 2021, Pakistan's Economic Coordination Committee had lifted a ban on the import of sugar and cotton from India. However, the decision was withdrawn quickly as it emerged that the major move was taken by Pakistan's Finance Ministry without taking all stakeholders on board, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/arsonist-disguised-as-fire-fighter-india-slams-pakistan-at-unga-over-kashmir-terrorism-415755">Also read |&nbsp;'Arsonist disguised as fire-fighter': India slams Pakistan at UNGA over Kashmir, terrorism</a>

India's move to revoke the special status of Jammu and Kashmir in 2019 outraged Pakistan, which downgraded diplomatic ties and expelled the Indian High Commissioner in Islamabad.

Pakistan also snapped all air and land links with India and suspended trade and railway services.

India has said that it desires normal neighbourly relations with Pakistan in an environment free of terror, hostility, and violence. India has said the onus is on Pakistan to create an environment free of terror and hostility.

India has also told Pakistan that "talks and terror" cannot go together and has asked Islamabad to take demonstrable steps against terror groups responsible for launching various attacks on India.

(With inputs from agencies)

Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan has said he wants a TV debate with Indian counterpart Narendra Modi. "I would love to debate with Narendra Modi on TV," Khan told Russia Today in an interview, adding that it would be beneficial for the billion people in the subcontinent if differences could be resolved through debate.

Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan has said he wants a TV debate with Indian counterpart Narendra Modi. "I would love to debate with Narendra Modi on TV," Khan told Russia Today in an interview, adding that it would be beneficial for the billion people in the subcontinent if differences could be resolved through debate. The nuclear-powered rivals have shared antagonistic relations since gaining independence 75 years ago and have fought three wars with each other. Meanwhile, Abdul Razak Dawood, adviser to Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on commerce, has backed the resumption of trade with India, which was suspended by Islamabad in August 2019 after New Delhi revoked the special status of Jammu and Kashmir. Trade with India is the need of the hour and beneficial to both countries, Dawood said at a media interaction on Sunday, Dawn News reported. Also read | Pakistan didn't take action against terrorists as groups targeting India continue to operate: US report "As far as the ministry of commerce is concerned, its position is to do trade with India. And my stance is that we should do trade with India and it should be opened now," said Dawood, who also serves as the Prime Minister's Adviser on Textile, Industry, Production, and Investment. "Trade with India is very beneficial to all, especially Pakistan. And I support it," he added, according to the Dawn News report. Reiterating his views Khan said Pakistan's regional trading options were already limited, with Iran, its southwestern neighbour, under US sanctions and Afghanistan, to the west, involved in decades of war. Pakistan shares strong economic ties with its northern neighbour, China, which has committed billions of dollars for infrastructure and other projects under its Belt and Road Initiative. Also read | Why China and Pakistan are not true allies? Khan's interview came on the eve of a visit to Moscow, where he will meet President Vladimir Putin, the first visit by a Pakistani leader to Russia in two decades. The two-day visit for talks on economic cooperation was planned before the current crisis over Ukraine. "This doesn’t concern us, we have a bilateral relation with Russia and we really want to strength it," Khan said of the Ukraine crisis. In March, 2021, Pakistan's Economic Coordination Committee had lifted a ban on the import of sugar and cotton from India. However, the decision was withdrawn quickly as it emerged that the major move was taken by Pakistan's Finance Ministry without taking all stakeholders on board, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Also read | 'Arsonist disguised as fire-fighter': India slams Pakistan at UNGA over Kashmir, terrorism India's move to revoke the special status of Jammu and Kashmir in 2019 outraged Pakistan, which downgraded diplomatic ties and expelled the Indian High Commissioner in Islamabad. Pakistan also snapped all air and land links with India and suspended trade and railway services. India has said that it desires normal neighbourly relations with Pakistan in an environment free of terror, hostility, and violence. India has said the onus is on Pakistan to create an environment free of terror and hostility. India has also told Pakistan that "talks and terror" cannot go together and has asked Islamabad to take demonstrable steps against terror groups responsible for launching various attacks on India. (With inputs from agencies)

I would love to debate with Narendra Modi, says Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan

India's Ministry of Information and Broadcasting on Tuesday (February 22) has blocked some applications, the website and social media accounts of foreign-based 'Punjab Politics TV', the government statement noted.&nbsp;

The forums have been blocked for allegedly attempting to use an online platform to disturb public order during the country's assembly elections.&nbsp;

'Punjab Politics TV' is said to be linked to the banned organisation Sikhs For Justice (SFJ), which has been declared unlawful in India under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967.&nbsp;

The statement added that the Indian ministry has used emergency powers under the IT Rules on February 18 to block the digital media resources of "Punjab Politics TV".&nbsp;

As per the official statement, the contents of the blocked apps, the website, and social media accounts had the potential to "incite communal disharmony and separatism".&nbsp;

They were found to be "detrimental to the sovereignty and integrity of India, security of the State, and public order".&nbsp;

The government statement added that it was also observed that the launch of new apps and social media accounts was timed to gain traction during the ongoing elections.&nbsp;

"Government of India remains vigilant and committed to secure the overall information environment in India and thwart any actions having the potential to undermine India's sovereignty and integrity," the ministry said.&nbsp;

In India,&nbsp;assembly polls were held in Punjab on February 20 and the results will be declared on March 10.&nbsp;

India's Ministry of Information and Broadcasting on Tuesday (February 22) has blocked some applications, the website and social media accounts of foreign-based 'Punjab Politics TV', the government statement noted.

India's Ministry of Information and Broadcasting on Tuesday (February 22) has blocked some applications, the website and social media accounts of foreign-based 'Punjab Politics TV', the government statement noted. The forums have been blocked for allegedly attempting to use an online platform to disturb public order during the country's assembly elections. 'Punjab Politics TV' is said to be linked to the banned organisation Sikhs For Justice (SFJ), which has been declared unlawful in India under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967. The statement added that the Indian ministry has used emergency powers under the IT Rules on February 18 to block the digital media resources of "Punjab Politics TV". As per the official statement, the contents of the blocked apps, the website, and social media accounts had the potential to "incite communal disharmony and separatism". They were found to be "detrimental to the sovereignty and integrity of India, security of the State, and public order". The government statement added that it was also observed that the launch of new apps and social media accounts was timed to gain traction during the ongoing elections. "Government of India remains vigilant and committed to secure the overall information environment in India and thwart any actions having the potential to undermine India's sovereignty and integrity," the ministry said. In India, assembly polls were held in Punjab on February 20 and the results will be declared on March 10.

India bans apps, website, social media accounts linked to banned organisation Sikhs For Justice

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi wished a speedy recovery to Britain's Queen Elizabeth II, who tested positive for coronavirus (COVID-19) on Sunday (February 20). Queen has received three jabs of the Covid vaccine.&nbsp;

"I wish Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth a speedy recovery and pray for her good health," wrote PM Modi while retweeting UK PM Boris Johnson's tweet.&nbsp;

Buckingham Palace on Sunday informed that Queen Elizabeth II has been tested Covid positive and she is receiving medical attention. The 95-year-old is experiencing mild symptoms but expects to continue light duties this week.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/queen-elizabeth-ii-tests-covid-positive-list-of-british-royals-who-previously-tested-positive-for-coronavirus-454873">List of British Royals who previously tested positive for coronavirus</a>

The Palace said, "The queen has today tested positive for COVID. Her Majesty is experiencing mild cold like symptoms but expects to continue light duties at Windsor over the coming week."&nbsp;

After a statement was released by the Palace, Johnson wrote, "I'm sure I speak for everyone in wishing Her Majesty The Queen a swift recovery from Covid and a rapid return to vibrant good health."&nbsp;

Queen's health remained a matter of concern of late. Especially after the world's oldest and longest-reigning monarch spent a night in the hospital last October for an unspecified ailment.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-new-year-parade-returns-to-san-francisco-after-covid-19-hiatus-454810">Chinese New Year parade returns to San Francisco after COVID-19 hiatus</a>

A few days ago, Elizabeth said that she could not move much as she carried out her first in-person engagement since Charles tested positive.&nbsp;

Apart from the Queen, her eldest son Prince Charles and daughter-in-law Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall recently contracted COVID-19.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/britains-queen-elizabeth-tests-positive-for-covid-19-454914/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi wished a speedy recovery to Britain's Queen Elizabeth II, who tested positive for coronavirus (COVID-19) on Sunday (February 20).

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi wished a speedy recovery to Britain's Queen Elizabeth II, who tested positive for coronavirus (COVID-19) on Sunday (February 20). Queen has received three jabs of the Covid vaccine. "I wish Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth a speedy recovery and pray for her good health," wrote PM Modi while retweeting UK PM Boris Johnson's tweet. Buckingham Palace on Sunday informed that Queen Elizabeth II has been tested Covid positive and she is receiving medical attention. The 95-year-old is experiencing mild symptoms but expects to continue light duties this week. ALSO READ | List of British Royals who previously tested positive for coronavirus The Palace said, "The queen has today tested positive for COVID. Her Majesty is experiencing mild cold like symptoms but expects to continue light duties at Windsor over the coming week." After a statement was released by the Palace, Johnson wrote, "I'm sure I speak for everyone in wishing Her Majesty The Queen a swift recovery from Covid and a rapid return to vibrant good health." Queen's health remained a matter of concern of late. Especially after the world's oldest and longest-reigning monarch spent a night in the hospital last October for an unspecified ailment. ALSO READ | Chinese New Year parade returns to San Francisco after COVID-19 hiatus A few days ago, Elizabeth said that she could not move much as she carried out her first in-person engagement since Charles tested positive. Apart from the Queen, her eldest son Prince Charles and daughter-in-law Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall recently contracted COVID-19. ×

Indian PM Narendra Modi wishes Queen Elizabeth II speedy recovery and prays for her good health

Over 63 per cent polling was recorded till 5 pm in the assembly elections in Punjab, while in the third of the seven phase polls in Uttar Pradesh, it was more than 60 per cent, according to official data. Polling was held in these states from 8 am to 6 pm, but both have released voting data only till 5 pm.&nbsp;

The average voter turnout for the single-phase election to the 117-member assembly in Punjab was 63.44 per cent, according to the state chief electoral office, while in Uttar Pradesh, where 59 constituencies went to polls in phase three, it was 60.63 per cent.&nbsp;

The 5 pm voting percentage data for Uttar Pradesh was updated at 10 pm by the Election Commission's Voter Turnout App. Results for the assembly elections of Punjab and Uttar Pradesh will be declared on March 10 along with that of Goa, Manipur and Uttarakhand.&nbsp;

While in Uttar Pradesh, as many as 627 candidates were in the fray in the third phase of the polls to the 403-member assembly, in Punjab, 1,304 candidates contested the elections.&nbsp;

Data for Punjab showed that the Gidderbaha assembly segment recorded the highest turnout of 77.80 per cent while Amritsar South recorded the lowest turnout at 48.06 per cent.&nbsp;

Mansa district recorded a maximum voter turnout of 73.34 per cent while Mohali recorded the lowest at 53.10 per cent, it stated.

The Voter Turnout App showed that in Uttar Pradesh, highest voting was recorded at 69.05 per cent in Lalitpur district and lowest at 57.71 per cent in Jhansi district.&nbsp;

The districts where polling was held were Hathras, Firozabad, Etah, Kasganj, Mainpuri, Farrukhabad, Kannauj, Etawah, Auraiya, Kanpur Dehat, Kanpur Nagar, Jalaun, Jhansi, Lalitpur, Hamirpur and Mahoba.&nbsp;

In the 2017 assembly polls, the turnout was 77.4 per cent in Punjab and the figure for the 59 seats in that year in Uttar Pradesh was 62.21 per cent. 
 
Punjab witnessed a multi-cornered contest among the Congress, AAP, SAD-BSP, BJP-PLC-SAD (Sanyukt) and the Sanyukt Samaj Morcha (SSM), a political front of various farmer bodies.&nbsp;

While the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) contested the polls in alliance with the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), the BJP fought the elections in alliance with Amarinder Singh-led Punjab Lok Congress and Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa-led SAD (Sanyukt).&nbsp;

The SSM contested the polls with Haryana Bharatiya Kisan Union (Chaduni) leader Gurnam Singh Chaduni-led Sanyukt Sangharsh Party. Amritsar-based famous conjoined twins Sohan Singh and Mohan Singh, fondly known as Sohna-Mohna, cast their separate votes. Sohna-Mohna had recently been handed over two separate electoral photo identity cards by Punjab's Chief Electoral Officer S Karuna Raju.&nbsp;

Both had turned 18 last year and voted for the first time. The Election Commission (EC) restrained actor and philanthropist Sonu Sood from visiting polling booths in Moga in Punjab following complaints that he was trying to influence voters.&nbsp;

His vehicle was also impounded by police, said officials. However, Sood, who denied the charges, alleged that other candidates were trying to buy votes. His sister Malvika Sood Sachar is a Congress candidate from Moga. In Uttar Pradesh, Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav contested from the Karhal assembly seat in the third phase. He was up against BJP leader and Union Minister S P Singh Baghel.&nbsp;

In this phase, the SP chief's uncle Shivpal Singh Yadav contested from his traditional Jaswantnagar seat. Among the other prominent faces in the fray were BJP's Satish Mahana (Maharajpur in Kanpur) and Ramvir Upadhaya (Sadabad in Hathras), and Louise Khurshid, who is contesting on the Congress ticket from Farrukhabad Sadar.&nbsp;

Louise Khurshid is the wife of senior Congress leader Salman Khurshid. Meanwhile, Kanpur Mayor Pramila Pandey and former BJP office-bearer Nawab Singh have landed in trouble for posting videos in which they are seen casting their vote inside polling booths. The EC has banned the use of mobile phones inside polling stations.&nbsp;

Pandey took her mobile phone inside the polling booth at Hudson School and clicked a selfie while voting, following which an FIR was lodged against her, a senior official said. The mayor has shared a video that has gone viral on social media platforms. District Magistrate Neha Sharma said the Kanpur mayor has violated the rules of the EC by revealing the name of the party she voted for.&nbsp;

Former city president of BJP's Yuva Morcha, Singh, was also allegedly caught while violating rules. He took a mobile inside a booth and shot a video while casting vote. In Firozabad district, the Samajwadi Party has alleged that one of its agents was beaten up by a BJP worker in Shikohabad in the presence of police. The party tweeted from its official Twitter handle, "SP's election agent is being beaten up by BJP people in presence of police at booth number 158 of Shikohabad Vidhan Sabha of Firozabad district." The SP has asked the EC to cognisance of the matter.

Over 63 per cent polling was recorded till 5 pm in the assembly elections in Punjab, while in the third of the seven phase polls in Uttar Pradesh, it was more than 60 per cent, according to official data.

Over 63 per cent polling was recorded till 5 pm in the assembly elections in Punjab, while in the third of the seven phase polls in Uttar Pradesh, it was more than 60 per cent, according to official data. Polling was held in these states from 8 am to 6 pm, but both have released voting data only till 5 pm. The average voter turnout for the single-phase election to the 117-member assembly in Punjab was 63.44 per cent, according to the state chief electoral office, while in Uttar Pradesh, where 59 constituencies went to polls in phase three, it was 60.63 per cent. The 5 pm voting percentage data for Uttar Pradesh was updated at 10 pm by the Election Commission's Voter Turnout App. Results for the assembly elections of Punjab and Uttar Pradesh will be declared on March 10 along with that of Goa, Manipur and Uttarakhand. While in Uttar Pradesh, as many as 627 candidates were in the fray in the third phase of the polls to the 403-member assembly, in Punjab, 1,304 candidates contested the elections. Data for Punjab showed that the Gidderbaha assembly segment recorded the highest turnout of 77.80 per cent while Amritsar South recorded the lowest turnout at 48.06 per cent. Mansa district recorded a maximum voter turnout of 73.34 per cent while Mohali recorded the lowest at 53.10 per cent, it stated. The Voter Turnout App showed that in Uttar Pradesh, highest voting was recorded at 69.05 per cent in Lalitpur district and lowest at 57.71 per cent in Jhansi district. The districts where polling was held were Hathras, Firozabad, Etah, Kasganj, Mainpuri, Farrukhabad, Kannauj, Etawah, Auraiya, Kanpur Dehat, Kanpur Nagar, Jalaun, Jhansi, Lalitpur, Hamirpur and Mahoba. In the 2017 assembly polls, the turnout was 77.4 per cent in Punjab and the figure for the 59 seats in that year in Uttar Pradesh was 62.21 per cent. Punjab witnessed a multi-cornered contest among the Congress, AAP, SAD-BSP, BJP-PLC-SAD (Sanyukt) and the Sanyukt Samaj Morcha (SSM), a political front of various farmer bodies. While the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) contested the polls in alliance with the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), the BJP fought the elections in alliance with Amarinder Singh-led Punjab Lok Congress and Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa-led SAD (Sanyukt). The SSM contested the polls with Haryana Bharatiya Kisan Union (Chaduni) leader Gurnam Singh Chaduni-led Sanyukt Sangharsh Party. Amritsar-based famous conjoined twins Sohan Singh and Mohan Singh, fondly known as Sohna-Mohna, cast their separate votes. Sohna-Mohna had recently been handed over two separate electoral photo identity cards by Punjab's Chief Electoral Officer S Karuna Raju. Both had turned 18 last year and voted for the first time. The Election Commission (EC) restrained actor and philanthropist Sonu Sood from visiting polling booths in Moga in Punjab following complaints that he was trying to influence voters. His vehicle was also impounded by police, said officials. However, Sood, who denied the charges, alleged that other candidates were trying to buy votes. His sister Malvika Sood Sachar is a Congress candidate from Moga. In Uttar Pradesh, Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav contested from the Karhal assembly seat in the third phase. He was up against BJP leader and Union Minister S P Singh Baghel. In this phase, the SP chief's uncle Shivpal Singh Yadav contested from his traditional Jaswantnagar seat. Among the other prominent faces in the fray were BJP's Satish Mahana (Maharajpur in Kanpur) and Ramvir Upadhaya (Sadabad in Hathras), and Louise Khurshid, who is contesting on the Congress ticket from Farrukhabad Sadar. Louise Khurshid is the wife of senior Congress leader Salman Khurshid. Meanwhile, Kanpur Mayor Pramila Pandey and former BJP office-bearer Nawab Singh have landed in trouble for posting videos in which they are seen casting their vote inside polling booths. The EC has banned the use of mobile phones inside polling stations. Pandey took her mobile phone inside the polling booth at Hudson School and clicked a selfie while voting, following which an FIR was lodged against her, a senior official said. The mayor has shared a video that has gone viral on social media platforms. District Magistrate Neha Sharma said the Kanpur mayor has violated the rules of the EC by revealing the name of the party she voted for. Former city president of BJP's Yuva Morcha, Singh, was also allegedly caught while violating rules. He took a mobile inside a booth and shot a video while casting vote. In Firozabad district, the Samajwadi Party has alleged that one of its agents was beaten up by a BJP worker in Shikohabad in the presence of police. The party tweeted from its official Twitter handle, "SP's election agent is being beaten up by BJP people in presence of police at booth number 158 of Shikohabad Vidhan Sabha of Firozabad district." The SP has asked the EC to cognisance of the matter.

India Assembly Elections 2022: Over 63% polling in Punjab till 5 pm, more than 60% in UP

Biological E Ltd, a Hyderabad-based pharmaceutical business, announced on Monday that its coronavirus vaccine, Corbevax, has acquired emergency use approval in India for children aged 12 to 18.&nbsp;

Corbevax is India's third homegrown vaccine.

The Drug Controller General of India (DCGI), Dr. V. G. Somani, granted the approval for Corbevax.

So far, only children aged 15 and up have been vaccinated in India so far.

More than 76 million children aged 15 to 17 have been vaccinated, mostly with Covaxin, according to government estimates.&nbsp;

According to Dr. NK Arora, Chairman of India's COVID-19 Working Group of the National Technical Advisory Group on Immunization (NTAGI), the vaccine is safe and has higher immunogenicity and antibody levels than some other vector vaccines.

In compared to Omicron, the vaccine has showed "greater action," according to the NTAGI chief.

According to sources, the Indian government has made an order with Biological E for five crore doses of the 'Corbevax' COVID-19 vaccine, each costing Rs 145.

Corbevax in late December was given emergency use approval for use in adults, but it has yet to be included in the national immunisation program. 
 
On August 21, last year, the Centre placed an order for 300 million&nbsp;Corbevax medicines.&nbsp; 
 
So far, India's vaccination programme has employed almost 1.76 billion vaccine doses, with roughly 84 per cent of those being a domestic version of AstraZeneca's COVID-19 shot made by the Serum Institute of India.

The third wave of COVID-19 infections in India, caused by the Omicron coronavirus variety, has largely subsided, with the government reporting 16,051 infections on Monday, down from over 300,000 in late January. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Biological E Ltd, a Hyderabad-based pharmaceutical business, announced on Monday that its coronavirus vaccine, Corbevax, has acquired emergency use approval in India for children aged 12 to 18.

Biological E Ltd, a Hyderabad-based pharmaceutical business, announced on Monday that its coronavirus vaccine, Corbevax, has acquired emergency use approval in India for children aged 12 to 18. Corbevax is India's third homegrown vaccine. The Drug Controller General of India (DCGI), Dr. V. G. Somani, granted the approval for Corbevax. So far, only children aged 15 and up have been vaccinated in India so far. More than 76 million children aged 15 to 17 have been vaccinated, mostly with Covaxin, according to government estimates. According to Dr. NK Arora, Chairman of India's COVID-19 Working Group of the National Technical Advisory Group on Immunization (NTAGI), the vaccine is safe and has higher immunogenicity and antibody levels than some other vector vaccines. In compared to Omicron, the vaccine has showed "greater action," according to the NTAGI chief. According to sources, the Indian government has made an order with Biological E for five crore doses of the 'Corbevax' COVID-19 vaccine, each costing Rs 145. Corbevax in late December was given emergency use approval for use in adults, but it has yet to be included in the national immunisation program. On August 21, last year, the Centre placed an order for 300 million Corbevax medicines. So far, India's vaccination programme has employed almost 1.76 billion vaccine doses, with roughly 84 per cent of those being a domestic version of AstraZeneca's COVID-19 shot made by the Serum Institute of India. The third wave of COVID-19 infections in India, caused by the Omicron coronavirus variety, has largely subsided, with the government reporting 16,051 infections on Monday, down from over 300,000 in late January. (With inputs from agencies)

Biological E's Corbevax gets emergency approval for 12-18 age group

In an exclusive conversation with WION's correspondent Jodie Cohen, former ambassador of Israel to India, Mark Sofer has said that he is hopeful that diplomacy will solve the Ukraine crisis.

Russia has massed an estimated 150,000 troops on three sides of Ukraine, the biggest such buildup since the Cold War.

Moscow denies it has any plans to attack, but wants Western guarantees that NATO won’t allow Ukraine and other former Soviet countries to join as members.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-may-consider-recognising-independence-of-ukraines-breakaway-regions-455124" hreflang="en">Putin may consider recognising independence of Ukraine's breakaway regions</a>

It has also demanded the alliance halt weapons deployments to Ukraine and roll back its forces from Eastern Europe, demands flatly rejected by the West.

Backing the West's ideology and approach, Sofer has said that Israel has vital national interests with both Ukraine and Russia.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
"When two elephants fight, the grass always suffers. And here, we are the grass", says Mark Sofer, former ambassador of Israel to India, to <a href="https://twitter.com/JodieCohen613?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JodieCohen613</a>, on the ongoing diplomacy efforts to avoid the Russian invasion in Ukraine. 
 
Watch more: <a href="https://t.co/AXC5qRcEPB">https://t.co/AXC5qRcEPB</a> <a href="https://t.co/0fTAh7SpF5">pic.twitter.com/0fTAh7SpF5</a>
— WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1495758886858493955?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 21, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

He said that ''Israel must adopt a middle path in this conflict,'' adding that although the country is ''not a player in this dispute but we have a lot to lose.''

"When two elephants fight, the grass always suffers. And here, we are clearly the grass," Sofer said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-russia-crisis-kyiv-denies-its-saboteurs-crossed-into-moscow-455109">Ukraine-Russia crisis: Kyiv denies its 'saboteurs' crossed into Moscow</a>

He believes that the world should ''hope for the best and prepare for the worst.''

Talking about Israel's plans to rescue its citizens from Kyiv, he said that the country has been organising flights for its citizens left in the country.

''Israel is always at the forefront to save Jews around the world. Absorbing them from abroad is not difficult for the country,'' he said.

''In recent history, Jews have been evacuated from several countries such as Iran and Ethiopia,'' he added.

&nbsp;

In an exclusive conversation with WION's correspondent Jodie Cohen, former ambassador of Israel to India, Mark Sofer has said that he is hopeful that diplomacy will solve the Ukraine crisis.

In an exclusive conversation with WION's correspondent Jodie Cohen, former ambassador of Israel to India, Mark Sofer has said that he is hopeful that diplomacy will solve the Ukraine crisis. Russia has massed an estimated 150,000 troops on three sides of Ukraine, the biggest such buildup since the Cold War. Moscow denies it has any plans to attack, but wants Western guarantees that NATO won’t allow Ukraine and other former Soviet countries to join as members. Also read | Putin may consider recognising independence of Ukraine's breakaway regions It has also demanded the alliance halt weapons deployments to Ukraine and roll back its forces from Eastern Europe, demands flatly rejected by the West. Backing the West's ideology and approach, Sofer has said that Israel has vital national interests with both Ukraine and Russia. "When two elephants fight, the grass always suffers. And here, we are the grass", says Mark Sofer, former ambassador of Israel to India, to @JodieCohen613, on the ongoing diplomacy efforts to avoid the Russian invasion in Ukraine. Watch more: https://t.co/AXC5qRcEPB pic.twitter.com/0fTAh7SpF5 — WION (@WIONews) February 21, 2022 × He said that ''Israel must adopt a middle path in this conflict,'' adding that although the country is ''not a player in this dispute but we have a lot to lose.'' "When two elephants fight, the grass always suffers. And here, we are clearly the grass," Sofer said. Also read | Ukraine-Russia crisis: Kyiv denies its 'saboteurs' crossed into Moscow He believes that the world should ''hope for the best and prepare for the worst.'' Talking about Israel's plans to rescue its citizens from Kyiv, he said that the country has been organising flights for its citizens left in the country. ''Israel is always at the forefront to save Jews around the world. Absorbing them from abroad is not difficult for the country,'' he said. ''In recent history, Jews have been evacuated from several countries such as Iran and Ethiopia,'' he added.

Exclusive: Hopeful that diplomacy will solve Ukraine crisis, says former ambassador of Israel to India

&nbsp;As India reports a high number of Omicron BA.2 cases, a top Health Expert has said it is not a cause of concern because it will not lead to another COVID-19 surge in the country.

Speaking to ANI, Co-Chairman National IMA COVID Task Force Dr Rajeev Jayadevan said that BA.2 is a sub-lineage of Omicron variant, which fuelled the third wave in the country.According to him, BA.2 cannot infect those who have previously had BA.1 sub-variant of COVID-19.

"It will not cause another surge. BA.2 is not capable of infecting people who had BA.1. It's not a new virus or strain. BA.2 is a sub-lineage of Omicron," Dr Jayadevan said. The Expert further said that BA.2 will be more transmissible than BA.1 and it has mutated to increase its transmissibility.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/low-omicron-efficacy-behind-delay-of-pfizer-covid-vaccine-for-kids-under-5-wsj-454430">Low Omicron efficacy behind delay of Pfizer COVID vaccine for kids under 5: WSJ</a>

"BA.2 is a little bit more transmissible than BA.1. For the last two years, it has constantly evolved to increase its fitness, which is its ability to infect more people and to leap past natural immunity and vaccinated immunity," he said.

Dr Jayadevan also said that the Omicron variant showed that vaccine immunity can be "easily surpassed by variants" and this trend will continue to be seen in future, if new variants emerge after mutation of the virus.

"Omicron showed that even vaccine immunity can be easily surpassed by variants and this trend will be expected in the future as new variants arrive. But BA.1 and BA.2 both have immune escape ability which means that if you've been naturally infected, or if you've been vaccinated or both, this virus can still infect us," he noted.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/the-worst-is-yet-to-come-study-finds-that-omicron-is-10-times-better-than-delta-at-evading-covid-vaccines-454212">'The worst is yet to come': Study finds that Omicron is 10 times better than Delta at evading Covid vaccines</a>

Explaining the nature of BA.2, Dr Jayadevan said, "It is the sub-lineage of Omicron and is essentially as same as Omicron that was identified in November in South Africa. It now has BA.1, BA.2 and BA.3." He also said that virus will be around for a very long time time." Virus is going to be around. It will come in ups and downs for a very long time. When the next variant comes, there will be a surge. We do not know when that will be, but history says that it can happen once inevitably six to eight months and that is typically how it acts."

"But until then, we are now in the low phase Omicron. However, what we should remember is this virus is around which means that we must do everything we can to stop it from infecting us," he added.Citing a study conducted on hamsters in Japan, Dr Jayadevan said that BA.2 may cause severe lung disease. "As of today, symptoms of Omicron are no different between BA.1 and BA.2. So there is no difference in severity.

Watch |&nbsp;Will vaccines work against BA.2, the new sub-variant of Omicron? Covid-19

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/will-vaccines-work-against-ba2-the-new-sub-variant-of-omicron-covid-19-454480/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

However, there is a study from Japan done on hamsters. In this study, hamsters showed that BA.2 involved the lungs more than BA.1. "On the trend of the Omicron BA.2 cases globally, he said, "It is believed that BA.2 is increasing in India. But in several other Asian countries in the region and across Europe, the prevalence is slowly increasing, particularly in Denmark. There's a slight increase in the United States and also in Britain."&nbsp;

As India reports a high number of Omicron BA.2 cases, a top Health Expert has said it is not a cause of concern because it will not lead to another COVID-19 surge in the country.

As India reports a high number of Omicron BA.2 cases, a top Health Expert has said it is not a cause of concern because it will not lead to another COVID-19 surge in the country. Speaking to ANI, Co-Chairman National IMA COVID Task Force Dr Rajeev Jayadevan said that BA.2 is a sub-lineage of Omicron variant, which fuelled the third wave in the country.According to him, BA.2 cannot infect those who have previously had BA.1 sub-variant of COVID-19. "It will not cause another surge. BA.2 is not capable of infecting people who had BA.1. It's not a new virus or strain. BA.2 is a sub-lineage of Omicron," Dr Jayadevan said. The Expert further said that BA.2 will be more transmissible than BA.1 and it has mutated to increase its transmissibility. Also read | Low Omicron efficacy behind delay of Pfizer COVID vaccine for kids under 5: WSJ "BA.2 is a little bit more transmissible than BA.1. For the last two years, it has constantly evolved to increase its fitness, which is its ability to infect more people and to leap past natural immunity and vaccinated immunity," he said. Dr Jayadevan also said that the Omicron variant showed that vaccine immunity can be "easily surpassed by variants" and this trend will continue to be seen in future, if new variants emerge after mutation of the virus. "Omicron showed that even vaccine immunity can be easily surpassed by variants and this trend will be expected in the future as new variants arrive. But BA.1 and BA.2 both have immune escape ability which means that if you've been naturally infected, or if you've been vaccinated or both, this virus can still infect us," he noted. Also read | 'The worst is yet to come': Study finds that Omicron is 10 times better than Delta at evading Covid vaccines Explaining the nature of BA.2, Dr Jayadevan said, "It is the sub-lineage of Omicron and is essentially as same as Omicron that was identified in November in South Africa. It now has BA.1, BA.2 and BA.3." He also said that virus will be around for a very long time time." Virus is going to be around. It will come in ups and downs for a very long time. When the next variant comes, there will be a surge. We do not know when that will be, but history says that it can happen once inevitably six to eight months and that is typically how it acts." "But until then, we are now in the low phase Omicron. However, what we should remember is this virus is around which means that we must do everything we can to stop it from infecting us," he added.Citing a study conducted on hamsters in Japan, Dr Jayadevan said that BA.2 may cause severe lung disease. "As of today, symptoms of Omicron are no different between BA.1 and BA.2. So there is no difference in severity. Watch | Will vaccines work against BA.2, the new sub-variant of Omicron? Covid-19 However, there is a study from Japan done on hamsters. In this study, hamsters showed that BA.2 involved the lungs more than BA.1. "On the trend of the Omicron BA.2 cases globally, he said, "It is believed that BA.2 is increasing in India. But in several other Asian countries in the region and across Europe, the prevalence is slowly increasing, particularly in Denmark. There's a slight increase in the United States and also in Britain."

Omicron BA.2 will not cause another COVID-19 surge, says expert

When the COVID-19 pandemic struck India in early 2020, global experts predicted that the second most populous country in the world would face a tsunami of cases.

Everyone had written off India, saying that its "weak health infrastructure" wouldn’t be able to cater to the huge masses.

But India, under the able leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, proved every doomsday prediction wrong with its effective response to the rising challenge.&nbsp;

Be it the oxygen cylinder crisis or the shortage of essential medicines due to the unavailability of active pharmaceutical ingredients (API) from China, India rose to every occasion and dealt with each problem with its swift decision making.

Priyam Gandhi-Mody,&nbsp;in her book 'A Nation to Protect: Leading India through the COVID Crisis',&nbsp;provides a definitive account of &nbsp;how India emerged from the deadly crisis under the strong leadership of PM Modi.

In an interview with WION, she talked&nbsp;about her experience&nbsp;and what motivated her to write the book.

WION: How did this book happen? What was your biggest motivation to write it?

Priyam Gandhi-Mody: When COVID-19 had spread to several parts of the world, India was pegged to be the next hotspot with doomsday predictions to the tune of dead bodies piling up on the streets. Some even said that because of India, the global fight against the virus will take a few steps back. It was no secret that due to decades of negligence, we had inherited a weak health infrastructure and lacked almost all the tools which any nation would need to fight a global pandemic. But as time went on, the Prime Minister led the country from the front and citizens, bureaucrats, and leaders lined up to follow his directives.&nbsp;

India’s response began to strengthen, taking us to a point where we can confidently say that we have managed the response far better than most wealthier nations who were far better equipped. This ‘India story’ needed to be told.&nbsp;

WION: In your words, can you describe how was India's Covid response different from other countries?

Priyam Gandhi-Mody: Decisive leadership by the prime minister. His insistence on involving states, all chief ministers and ‘all of government’ approach is what set us apart.&nbsp;

When he made decisions, he never went back on them, never flip-flopped and kept a direct channel of communication with the people open, building trust.

WION: Can you share something about the writing process and how long did it take you to compile this work?

Priyam Gandhi-Mody: For about six months I have been speaking to various people who have led the country’s response, from the government to private folks, experts and industry leaders. I have tried to include all those opinions and responses to strengthen the story.&nbsp;

WION: Your thoughts on the Indian government's collaboration with private organisations to combat COVID-19

Priyam Gandhi-Mody: &nbsp;If it wasn’t for extensive effort on this collaboration we would still be relying on other nations for our essentials – masks, tests, PPE kits, ventilators and vaccines. This pandemic has shown us the value of ‘aatmanirbharta’ (self-reliant) and how it can bring us independence, security and strength.&nbsp;

WION: Your thoughts on India's vaccination drive compared to other countries

Priyam Gandhi-Mody: The backbone of our vaccination drive has been our COWIN platform, which has ensured equality, appropriate mobilization of vials and meticulous management of the administration. While western nations were issuing flimsy paper pieces for proof of vaccination, we were issuing a QR coded, fool-proof certificate on the mobile phone.&nbsp;

GoI operated with the knowledge that our vaccine supply was going to be back-loaded, meaning our suppliers would be providing a significantly large amount of doses in the second half of 2021. This is why, we secured our most vulnerable populations first. In fact, even the Prime Minister waited his turn to get vaccinated, pumping in discipline into the effort.&nbsp;

WION: Having worked closely with PM Modi, can you tell us a bit about your interactions with him?

Priyam Gandhi-Mody: Just like most other people, I had made certain assumptions about him because of how sections of the media portray him – authoritarian, someone who makes unilateral decisions, intimidating etc. However, all those were quickly shattered when I saw that he is as much human as all of us – replete with the same emotions.&nbsp;

His answers were detailed, eye-opening and certainly played a huge part in putting the entire information that everyone else was giving me in context.&nbsp;

WION: What are your future plans? Any new book we should look forward to?

Priyam Gandhi-Mody: There are a bunch of things in the pipeline but we’ll see where they go. Too early to speak about them at this point.

When the COVID-19 pandemic struck India in early 2020, global experts predicted that the second most populous country in the world would face a tsunami of cases.

When the COVID-19 pandemic struck India in early 2020, global experts predicted that the second most populous country in the world would face a tsunami of cases. Everyone had written off India, saying that its "weak health infrastructure" wouldn’t be able to cater to the huge masses. But India, under the able leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, proved every doomsday prediction wrong with its effective response to the rising challenge. Be it the oxygen cylinder crisis or the shortage of essential medicines due to the unavailability of active pharmaceutical ingredients (API) from China, India rose to every occasion and dealt with each problem with its swift decision making. Priyam Gandhi-Mody, in her book 'A Nation to Protect: Leading India through the COVID Crisis', provides a definitive account of how India emerged from the deadly crisis under the strong leadership of PM Modi. In an interview with WION, she talked about her experience and what motivated her to write the book. WION: How did this book happen? What was your biggest motivation to write it? Priyam Gandhi-Mody: When COVID-19 had spread to several parts of the world, India was pegged to be the next hotspot with doomsday predictions to the tune of dead bodies piling up on the streets. Some even said that because of India, the global fight against the virus will take a few steps back. It was no secret that due to decades of negligence, we had inherited a weak health infrastructure and lacked almost all the tools which any nation would need to fight a global pandemic. But as time went on, the Prime Minister led the country from the front and citizens, bureaucrats, and leaders lined up to follow his directives. India’s response began to strengthen, taking us to a point where we can confidently say that we have managed the response far better than most wealthier nations who were far better equipped. This ‘India story’ needed to be told. WION: In your words, can you describe how was India's Covid response different from other countries? Priyam Gandhi-Mody: Decisive leadership by the prime minister. His insistence on involving states, all chief ministers and ‘all of government’ approach is what set us apart. When he made decisions, he never went back on them, never flip-flopped and kept a direct channel of communication with the people open, building trust. WION: Can you share something about the writing process and how long did it take you to compile this work? Priyam Gandhi-Mody: For about six months I have been speaking to various people who have led the country’s response, from the government to private folks, experts and industry leaders. I have tried to include all those opinions and responses to strengthen the story. WION: Your thoughts on the Indian government's collaboration with private organisations to combat COVID-19 Priyam Gandhi-Mody: If it wasn’t for extensive effort on this collaboration we would still be relying on other nations for our essentials – masks, tests, PPE kits, ventilators and vaccines. This pandemic has shown us the value of ‘aatmanirbharta’ (self-reliant) and how it can bring us independence, security and strength. WION: Your thoughts on India's vaccination drive compared to other countries Priyam Gandhi-Mody: The backbone of our vaccination drive has been our COWIN platform, which has ensured equality, appropriate mobilization of vials and meticulous management of the administration. While western nations were issuing flimsy paper pieces for proof of vaccination, we were issuing a QR coded, fool-proof certificate on the mobile phone. GoI operated with the knowledge that our vaccine supply was going to be back-loaded, meaning our suppliers would be providing a significantly large amount of doses in the second half of 2021. This is why, we secured our most vulnerable populations first. In fact, even the Prime Minister waited his turn to get vaccinated, pumping in discipline into the effort. WION: Having worked closely with PM Modi, can you tell us a bit about your interactions with him? Priyam Gandhi-Mody: Just like most other people, I had made certain assumptions about him because of how sections of the media portray him – authoritarian, someone who makes unilateral decisions, intimidating etc. However, all those were quickly shattered when I saw that he is as much human as all of us – replete with the same emotions. His answers were detailed, eye-opening and certainly played a huge part in putting the entire information that everyone else was giving me in context. WION: What are your future plans? Any new book we should look forward to? Priyam Gandhi-Mody: There are a bunch of things in the pipeline but we’ll see where they go. Too early to speak about them at this point.

India proved every cynic wrong with its swift action against COVID-19: Priyam Gandhi-Mody

A team from the Central Bureau of Investigation(CBI) arrived at the Michaelpatti village in Tamil Nadu's Thanjavur district to probe the suicide of a minor schoolgirl. In a video, the victim was seen mentioning about the attempts of her school staff to forcibly convert her to Christianity and having troubled, overburdened her with work. The investigation of this case, which was initially being carried out by the Tamil Nadu Police was handed over to the CBI, as per directions from the Madras High Court. The parents had approached the Court, expressing apprehensions over the credibility of the Police probe.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cbi-court-sentences-indian-politician-lalu-prasad-to-five-years-in-prison-in-fodder-scam-case-455047">CBI court sentences Indian politician Lalu Prasad to five years in prison in fodder scam case</a>

The case pertains to a 17-year old girl from a poor background, who studied in a Christian Missionary School in Tamil Nadu’s Thanjavur district. According to Police, the victim had consumed poisonous material on 9th January and had succumbed ten days later. In a video, the victim is seen saying, “In front of me also they asked my parents about converting me to Christianity, so that she would make me study. She would also keep scolding me and not let me stay there”. When asked who she was referring to, the victim is heard saying "Sister Rachel Mary”. When asked if she was tortured because she refused to convert to Christianity, the victim is heard saying “it could be possible”.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/stepping-into-5th-year-in-politics-kamal-haasan-says-next-target-is-2024-parliamentary-polls-455043">Stepping into 5th year in Politics, Kamal Haasan says next target is 2024 Parliamentary Polls</a>

As per the Legal Rights Protection Forum’s(LRPF) complaint to India’s National Commission for Protection of Child Rights(NCPCR), the victim’s school had been illegally converting children into Christianity and was imposing corporal punishments on those who resisted. It added that this was causing mental agony to students and driving them to extreme steps. “The victim was forced to convert into Christianity and when she refused the same, she was refused permission to return home from hostel. She was made to clean toilets and wash dishes” reads the complaint. It also adds that the child tried to end her life owing to the atrocities inflicted upon her(following which, she eventually succumbed).

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-prime-minister-modi-inaugurates-asias-biggest-gobar-dhan-plant-in-indore-454538">&nbsp;Indian Prime Minister Modi inaugurates Asia's biggest 'gobar-dhan' plant in Indore</a>

The bereaved family had initially approached the Court seeking a CB-CID probe into the case. This was after, Thanjavur SP, Ravali Priya,IPS, had blatantly denied any 'forced&nbsp;conversion&nbsp;angle' in the case, even before the investigation began to take shape. Later, even influential Ministers in Tamil Nadu had denied the Conversion angle. Following the Court order for a CBI probe, the Tamil Nadu Government had challenged the same in the Supreme Court. However, the apex court directed the CBI to continue its probe in the case.

A team from the Central Bureau of Investigation(CBI) arrived at the Michaelpatti village in Tamil Nadu's Thanjavur district to probe the suicide of a minor schoolgirl.

A team from the Central Bureau of Investigation(CBI) arrived at the Michaelpatti village in Tamil Nadu's Thanjavur district to probe the suicide of a minor schoolgirl. In a video, the victim was seen mentioning about the attempts of her school staff to forcibly convert her to Christianity and having troubled, overburdened her with work. The investigation of this case, which was initially being carried out by the Tamil Nadu Police was handed over to the CBI, as per directions from the Madras High Court. The parents had approached the Court, expressing apprehensions over the credibility of the Police probe. Also read | CBI court sentences Indian politician Lalu Prasad to five years in prison in fodder scam case The case pertains to a 17-year old girl from a poor background, who studied in a Christian Missionary School in Tamil Nadu’s Thanjavur district. According to Police, the victim had consumed poisonous material on 9th January and had succumbed ten days later. In a video, the victim is seen saying, “In front of me also they asked my parents about converting me to Christianity, so that she would make me study. She would also keep scolding me and not let me stay there”. When asked who she was referring to, the victim is heard saying "Sister Rachel Mary”. When asked if she was tortured because she refused to convert to Christianity, the victim is heard saying “it could be possible”. Also read | Stepping into 5th year in Politics, Kamal Haasan says next target is 2024 Parliamentary Polls As per the Legal Rights Protection Forum’s(LRPF) complaint to India’s National Commission for Protection of Child Rights(NCPCR), the victim’s school had been illegally converting children into Christianity and was imposing corporal punishments on those who resisted. It added that this was causing mental agony to students and driving them to extreme steps. “The victim was forced to convert into Christianity and when she refused the same, she was refused permission to return home from hostel. She was made to clean toilets and wash dishes” reads the complaint. It also adds that the child tried to end her life owing to the atrocities inflicted upon her(following which, she eventually succumbed). Also read | Indian Prime Minister Modi inaugurates Asia's biggest 'gobar-dhan' plant in Indore The bereaved family had initially approached the Court seeking a CB-CID probe into the case. This was after, Thanjavur SP, Ravali Priya,IPS, had blatantly denied any 'forced conversion angle' in the case, even before the investigation began to take shape. Later, even influential Ministers in Tamil Nadu had denied the Conversion angle. Following the Court order for a CBI probe, the Tamil Nadu Government had challenged the same in the Supreme Court. However, the apex court directed the CBI to continue its probe in the case.

Tamil Nadu: CBI visits school, begins probe in alleged forced Conversion, suicide of minor girl

India's External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar and his French counterpart Jean-Yves Le Drian held productive talks on Monday (February 21).&nbsp;

Both the ministers discussed bilateral cooperations and Indo-Pacific at lengths. They also discussed the ongoing Russia-Ukraine crisis situation. "Arrived in Paris. Held wide-ranging and productive talks with FM Jean-Yves Le Drian," Jaishankar wrote on his Twitter. &nbsp;

He added, "Discussions on bilateral cooperation, Ukraine situation, Indo-Pacific and JCPOA reflected our deep trust &amp; global partnership. Look forward to participating in EU Ministerial Forum on Indo- Pacific."&nbsp;

On Sunday, Jaishankar began his three-day visit to France and he will also give an address at the French Institute of International Relations (IFRI).&nbsp;

The Indian external affairs minister is set to attend the EU Ministerial Forum for Cooperation in the Indo-Pacific on February 22. The forum is crucial from the perspective of India as it will happen amid Chinese assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific region.&nbsp;

This visit comes after Jaishankar participated in the Munich Security Conference (MSC) 2022 in Germany, where he held a series of meeting with ministers from Europe, Asia, and other parts of the world.&nbsp;

The border tensions have deteriorated as Russia has placed more than 150,000 troops near Ukraine's borders in recent weeks, the United States and Western allies have estimated.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;France proposes Ukraine summit; Biden, Putin to de-escalate tensions

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/france-proposes-ukraine-summit-biden-putin-to-de-escalate-tensions-454923/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

(With inputs from agencies)

India's External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar and his French counterpart Jean-Yves Le Drian held productive talks on Monday (February 21). Both the ministers discussed bilateral cooperations and Indo-Pacific at lengths.

India's External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar and his French counterpart Jean-Yves Le Drian held productive talks on Monday (February 21). Both the ministers discussed bilateral cooperations and Indo-Pacific at lengths. They also discussed the ongoing Russia-Ukraine crisis situation. "Arrived in Paris. Held wide-ranging and productive talks with FM Jean-Yves Le Drian," Jaishankar wrote on his Twitter. He added, "Discussions on bilateral cooperation, Ukraine situation, Indo-Pacific and JCPOA reflected our deep trust & global partnership. Look forward to participating in EU Ministerial Forum on Indo- Pacific." On Sunday, Jaishankar began his three-day visit to France and he will also give an address at the French Institute of International Relations (IFRI). The Indian external affairs minister is set to attend the EU Ministerial Forum for Cooperation in the Indo-Pacific on February 22. The forum is crucial from the perspective of India as it will happen amid Chinese assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific region. This visit comes after Jaishankar participated in the Munich Security Conference (MSC) 2022 in Germany, where he held a series of meeting with ministers from Europe, Asia, and other parts of the world. The border tensions have deteriorated as Russia has placed more than 150,000 troops near Ukraine's borders in recent weeks, the United States and Western allies have estimated. WATCH | France proposes Ukraine summit; Biden, Putin to de-escalate tensions × (With inputs from agencies)

Indian and French foreign ministers discuss Russia-Ukraine situation, Indo-Pacific and JCPOA

The silk carpets from the Kashmir valley are famous across the world and to preserve that the Indian Institute of Carpet Technology (IICT) in Srinagar has started labelling the famed carpets.

Kashmir silk carpets get QR code based authentication

Actor-turned-politician Kamal Haasan hoisted his political party's flag at their headquarters on Monday, marking the party having completed four years since inception.&nbsp;The veteran actor had launched his party on February 21st, 2018, after sensing a void in Tamil Nadu politics, following the demise of dominant political figures J Jayalalithaa and M Karunanidhi. Since the time of its inception,' Makkal Needhi Maiam'(People's Justice Federation) candidates have contested the 2019 Parliamentary Polls, 2021 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections and the recent Local body polls in the state.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/kamal-haasan-to-become-first-indian-celebrity-to-have-his-own-digital-avatar-in-metaverse-427767">Kamal Haasan to become first Indian celebrity to have his own digital avatar in metaverse</a>

"Tomorrow is ours is our slogan and we are headed for 2024(Parliamentary polls)" he told reporters, on the further goals of his party. Despite having witnessed considerable growth across Tamil Nadu, the actor's party has not been able to open its account in either the 2019 Parliamentary poll or the Assembly Polls of 2021. Haasan, however put up a tough fight from the Coimbatore South Constituency last year and came a close second to the winner, BJP's Vanathi Srinivasan. According to Haasan, his party has grown fairly well for a five-year-old child.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kamal-haasans-political-party-makkal-needhi-maiam-crumbles-sees-multiple-resignations-383333">Kamal Haasan’s political party Makkal Needhi Maiam crumbles, sees multiple resignations</a>

On Monday, the actor-turned-politician also visited Tamil Nadu Chief Secretary and handed over a petition, urging that participative democracy be enabled in local bodies. He pointed out that, the Tamil Nadu Municipal Laws (Amendment) Act 2010 (No.35) paved the way for Area Sabha and Ward Committee to be instituted for participative democracy in Corporation and Municipalities. He added that,11 years hence, this has not been implemented because, the rules are yet to be formed and notified. Almost half of the population in Tamil Nadu lives in urban local bodies and they are being denied participative democracy, he added in his letter to the Chief Secretary.

Actor-turned-politician Kamal Haasan hoisted his political party's flag at their headquarters on Monday, marking the party having completed four years since inception.

Actor-turned-politician Kamal Haasan hoisted his political party's flag at their headquarters on Monday, marking the party having completed four years since inception. The veteran actor had launched his party on February 21st, 2018, after sensing a void in Tamil Nadu politics, following the demise of dominant political figures J Jayalalithaa and M Karunanidhi. Since the time of its inception,' Makkal Needhi Maiam'(People's Justice Federation) candidates have contested the 2019 Parliamentary Polls, 2021 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections and the recent Local body polls in the state. Also read | Kamal Haasan to become first Indian celebrity to have his own digital avatar in metaverse "Tomorrow is ours is our slogan and we are headed for 2024(Parliamentary polls)" he told reporters, on the further goals of his party. Despite having witnessed considerable growth across Tamil Nadu, the actor's party has not been able to open its account in either the 2019 Parliamentary poll or the Assembly Polls of 2021. Haasan, however put up a tough fight from the Coimbatore South Constituency last year and came a close second to the winner, BJP's Vanathi Srinivasan. According to Haasan, his party has grown fairly well for a five-year-old child. Also read | Kamal Haasan’s political party Makkal Needhi Maiam crumbles, sees multiple resignations On Monday, the actor-turned-politician also visited Tamil Nadu Chief Secretary and handed over a petition, urging that participative democracy be enabled in local bodies. He pointed out that, the Tamil Nadu Municipal Laws (Amendment) Act 2010 (No.35) paved the way for Area Sabha and Ward Committee to be instituted for participative democracy in Corporation and Municipalities. He added that,11 years hence, this has not been implemented because, the rules are yet to be formed and notified. Almost half of the population in Tamil Nadu lives in urban local bodies and they are being denied participative democracy, he added in his letter to the Chief Secretary.

Stepping into 5th year in Politics, Kamal Haasan says next target is 2024 Parliamentary Polls

Indian politician Lalu Prasad Yadav, former chief minister of the country's northern state Bihar, was sentenced to five years of imprisonment on Monday (February 21) in a multi-million dollar Doranda treasury scam, the fifth fodder scam case.&nbsp;

A special court of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in Ranchi also imposed a fine of Rs 6 million on the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader.&nbsp;

The popular politician was along with other accused people was pronounced guilty by an Indian court on February 15.&nbsp;

CBI counsel BMP Singh told news agency PTI: "Lalu Prasad has been sentenced to 5 years imprisonment while a penalty of Rs 60 lakh has also been imposed on him."&nbsp;

"Apart from Prasad, five years imprisonment each was announced by the Court for five convicts, four years each for 32 convicts and three years each for three convicts," Singh added.&nbsp;

In the Rs 1.39 billion fodder scam case, which is the fifth case related to the scam, an FIR was lodged in the Doranda police station in 1996. CBI later took over the case for investigation.&nbsp;

Previously, Lalu was found guilty of a fodder scam in four cases. He is serving a sentence of 27.5 years of imprisonment.

The 75-year-old appeared in the court virtually as he is in judicial custody and is admitted to the Rajendra Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) owing to poor health conditions.&nbsp;

In case, a total of 170 were accused of corruption. However, in the years-long probe and judicial trials, 55 have died. On the other hand, seven became witnesses and two confessed to the crime. Six are still absconding.&nbsp;

During the hearing of the case in the CBI special court, 575 people testified on behalf of the prosecution, while 35 were from the defendants. The probe agency produced 15 documents in the case.

In the scam, large sums of money were illegally withdrawn in the name of transporting animals and arranging fodder for them in Bihar's animal husbandry department. The animals included bull, buffalo, cow, goat and sheep.&nbsp;

The documents submitted by the department regarding the transportation were found to be fake. The vehicle numbers shown in the documents were of scooters, mopeds and motorcycles.

The cases occurred during the period of 1990-1996. The Bihar CAG had sent the information about the graft to the government time and again, but the government did not pay heed to it.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Indian politician Lalu Prasad Yadav, former chief minister of the country's northern state Bihar, was sentenced to five years of imprisonment on Monday (February 21) in a multi-million dollar Doranda treasury scam, the fifth fodder scam case.

Indian politician Lalu Prasad Yadav, former chief minister of the country's northern state Bihar, was sentenced to five years of imprisonment on Monday (February 21) in a multi-million dollar Doranda treasury scam, the fifth fodder scam case. A special court of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in Ranchi also imposed a fine of Rs 6 million on the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader. The popular politician was along with other accused people was pronounced guilty by an Indian court on February 15. CBI counsel BMP Singh told news agency PTI: "Lalu Prasad has been sentenced to 5 years imprisonment while a penalty of Rs 60 lakh has also been imposed on him." "Apart from Prasad, five years imprisonment each was announced by the Court for five convicts, four years each for 32 convicts and three years each for three convicts," Singh added. In the Rs 1.39 billion fodder scam case, which is the fifth case related to the scam, an FIR was lodged in the Doranda police station in 1996. CBI later took over the case for investigation. Previously, Lalu was found guilty of a fodder scam in four cases. He is serving a sentence of 27.5 years of imprisonment. The 75-year-old appeared in the court virtually as he is in judicial custody and is admitted to the Rajendra Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) owing to poor health conditions. In case, a total of 170 were accused of corruption. However, in the years-long probe and judicial trials, 55 have died. On the other hand, seven became witnesses and two confessed to the crime. Six are still absconding. During the hearing of the case in the CBI special court, 575 people testified on behalf of the prosecution, while 35 were from the defendants. The probe agency produced 15 documents in the case. In the scam, large sums of money were illegally withdrawn in the name of transporting animals and arranging fodder for them in Bihar's animal husbandry department. The animals included bull, buffalo, cow, goat and sheep. The documents submitted by the department regarding the transportation were found to be fake. The vehicle numbers shown in the documents were of scooters, mopeds and motorcycles. The cases occurred during the period of 1990-1996. The Bihar CAG had sent the information about the graft to the government time and again, but the government did not pay heed to it. (With inputs from agencies)

CBI court sentences Indian politician Lalu Prasad to five years in prison in fodder scam case

India and France have agreed on a Roadmap on Blue Economy and Ocean Governance with the aim to contribute to scientific knowledge and ocean conservation and ensure that the ocean remains a global common, based on the rule of law.

This agreement came during External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar's three-day visit to France. The scope of the roadmap will encompass maritime trade, the naval industry, fisheries, marine technology and scientific research, integrated coastal management, marine eco-tourism, inland waterways, and cooperation between competent administrations on civil maritime issues.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/s-jaishankar-begins-3-day-visit-to-france-to-attend-eu-ministerial-forum-for-cooperation-in-indo-pacific-454895">S. Jaishankar begins 3-day visit to France to attend EU Ministerial Forum for Cooperation in Indo-Pacific</a>

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in a statement said that both nations plan to organise an annual bilateral dialogue on the blue economy and ocean governance to exchange views on their priorities, share their best practices and support ongoing and future cooperation.

"India and France intend to make blue economy a driver of progress of their respective societies while respecting the environment and coastal and marine biodiversity," the MEA said in a joint document.

India and France underscored that fisheries are a vital economic sector and play a decisive role in food security and livelihood security, particularly for coastal populations.

They also highlighted that demographic, economic and societal factors have led to an increased global demand for marine products and growing stress on global fish stocks.

According to the statement, India and France will make the blue economy a priority in the development of their economic exchanges.

"They will facilitate contacts between economic actors, business heads organisations, technopoles and maritime clusters of the two countries, cross investments, as well as visa issuance to entrepreneurs active in the blue economy," the MEA said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/eam-jaishankar-to-visit-munich-paris-india-australia-france-fms-trilateral-on-anvil-452012">EAM Jaishankar to visit Munich, Paris; India, Australia, France FMs trilateral on anvil</a>

Earlier today, Jaishankar held wide-ranging and productive talks in Paris with France Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian and both sides discussed cooperation, the Ukraine situation and Indo-Pacific.Jaishankar on Sunday began his visit to France.

He will attend the EU Ministerial Forum for Cooperation in the Indo-Pacific, amid China`s assertiveness in the region, on February 22, an initiative of the French Presidency of the European Council.

India and France have agreed on a Roadmap on Blue Economy and Ocean Governance with the aim to contribute to scientific knowledge and ocean conservation and ensure that the ocean remains a global common, based on the rule of law.

India and France have agreed on a Roadmap on Blue Economy and Ocean Governance with the aim to contribute to scientific knowledge and ocean conservation and ensure that the ocean remains a global common, based on the rule of law. This agreement came during External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar's three-day visit to France. The scope of the roadmap will encompass maritime trade, the naval industry, fisheries, marine technology and scientific research, integrated coastal management, marine eco-tourism, inland waterways, and cooperation between competent administrations on civil maritime issues. Also read | S. Jaishankar begins 3-day visit to France to attend EU Ministerial Forum for Cooperation in Indo-Pacific The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in a statement said that both nations plan to organise an annual bilateral dialogue on the blue economy and ocean governance to exchange views on their priorities, share their best practices and support ongoing and future cooperation. "India and France intend to make blue economy a driver of progress of their respective societies while respecting the environment and coastal and marine biodiversity," the MEA said in a joint document. India and France underscored that fisheries are a vital economic sector and play a decisive role in food security and livelihood security, particularly for coastal populations. They also highlighted that demographic, economic and societal factors have led to an increased global demand for marine products and growing stress on global fish stocks. According to the statement, India and France will make the blue economy a priority in the development of their economic exchanges. "They will facilitate contacts between economic actors, business heads organisations, technopoles and maritime clusters of the two countries, cross investments, as well as visa issuance to entrepreneurs active in the blue economy," the MEA said. Also read | EAM Jaishankar to visit Munich, Paris; India, Australia, France FMs trilateral on anvil Earlier today, Jaishankar held wide-ranging and productive talks in Paris with France Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian and both sides discussed cooperation, the Ukraine situation and Indo-Pacific.Jaishankar on Sunday began his visit to France. He will attend the EU Ministerial Forum for Cooperation in the Indo-Pacific, amid China`s assertiveness in the region, on February 22, an initiative of the French Presidency of the European Council.

India and France agree on Roadmap on Blue Economy and Ocean Governance

The Jammu and Kashmir Police has started a women safety squad in Srinagar city to help women in distress. The main purpose of the squad will be to ensure the security of girls especially around schools, colleges, universities, coaching centres, and other places.&nbsp;

The Jammu and Kashmir Police say having a woman safety squad in the Srinagar city will make the women feel much safer. The girls who were being harassed&nbsp;outside coaching centres or colleges will stop now as the females now have a dedicated squad they can report to if the need arises.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-famed-kashmir-silk-carpets-get-qr-code-based-authentication-454624" hreflang="en">India’s famed Kashmir silk carpets get QR code based authentication</a>

''I am extremely happy that this step has been taken in Srinagar city. There was a need for this, to have a women safety squad that will be dedicated to the security of women in the city. Since offline classes have been started, coaching centres, schools, and colleges are opening and a lot of people have asked us that the girls are being harassed&nbsp;at several places, and with the recent acid attack in Srinagar, we took this step. The sole purpose of the squad is to make the females in the city feel safer. '' said Sujit Kumar, DIG Srinagar.&nbsp;

The women squad would be patrolling all over the city during the day, especially around the educational institutions. The heads of the Institutions have been asked to contact the squad if any incident takes place outside their&nbsp;centres. This step has been taken after a recent acid attack took place in Srinagar city. The Jammu and Kashmir Police felt that there is a need for having a dedicated squad for the females of the city.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-famed-kashmir-silk-carpets-get-qr-code-based-authentication-454624" hreflang="en">India’s famed Kashmir silk carpets get QR code based authentication</a>

''The Jammu and Kashmir Police has taken a great step by having this special women safety squad in the city for the security of women. After the recent acid attack in Srinagar city, Police felt there is a need for this. We have been deputed here at two spots outside the coaching centres in Hyderpora and I am in charge of it. We have sufficient&nbsp;vehicles and female squads to make sure the girls feel safer. The girls are feeling much safer and are happy that we have started patrolling. '' said a lady police officer.&nbsp;

The step has been appreciated by everyone in the city, especially the girl students. They felt there was a need for having a special female squad outside the educational institutions. Women feel it easier to report a crime if the Police officers are females too.&nbsp;

The Jammu and Kashmir Police has started a women safety squad in Srinagar city to help women in distress. The main purpose of the squad will be to ensure the security of girls especially around schools, colleges, universities, coaching centres, and other places.

The Jammu and Kashmir Police has started a women safety squad in Srinagar city to help women in distress. The main purpose of the squad will be to ensure the security of girls especially around schools, colleges, universities, coaching centres, and other places. The Jammu and Kashmir Police say having a woman safety squad in the Srinagar city will make the women feel much safer. The girls who were being harassed outside coaching centres or colleges will stop now as the females now have a dedicated squad they can report to if the need arises. Also read | India’s famed Kashmir silk carpets get QR code based authentication ''I am extremely happy that this step has been taken in Srinagar city. There was a need for this, to have a women safety squad that will be dedicated to the security of women in the city. Since offline classes have been started, coaching centres, schools, and colleges are opening and a lot of people have asked us that the girls are being harassed at several places, and with the recent acid attack in Srinagar, we took this step. The sole purpose of the squad is to make the females in the city feel safer. '' said Sujit Kumar, DIG Srinagar. The women squad would be patrolling all over the city during the day, especially around the educational institutions. The heads of the Institutions have been asked to contact the squad if any incident takes place outside their centres. This step has been taken after a recent acid attack took place in Srinagar city. The Jammu and Kashmir Police felt that there is a need for having a dedicated squad for the females of the city. Also read | India’s famed Kashmir silk carpets get QR code based authentication ''The Jammu and Kashmir Police has taken a great step by having this special women safety squad in the city for the security of women. After the recent acid attack in Srinagar city, Police felt there is a need for this. We have been deputed here at two spots outside the coaching centres in Hyderpora and I am in charge of it. We have sufficient vehicles and female squads to make sure the girls feel safer. The girls are feeling much safer and are happy that we have started patrolling. '' said a lady police officer. The step has been appreciated by everyone in the city, especially the girl students. They felt there was a need for having a special female squad outside the educational institutions. Women feel it easier to report a crime if the Police officers are females too.

Jammu and Kashmir police start women safety squad in Srinagar

India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar is on a three-day visit to France where he'll be meeting with key French officials. Jaishankar reached France on Sunday after concluding his visit to Germany where he attended the Munich security conference.

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar in France for talks

The company OLA has been trying to paint India's mobility landscape green over the last few years. After establishing into the two wheeler market of EV, OLA is looking at entering into four wheeler market as well. How does company see India's electric mobility landscape and what are its plans for electric future? To talk all that and much more today we're joined by Varun Dubey, chief marketing officer OLA electric from Bengaluru.

OLA electric plans to enter four-wheeler market | Varun Dubey Exclusive

Punjab recorded a voter turnout of 17.77 per cent at 11 am on Sunday in the ongoing Assembly elections.

According to the Election Commission of India, Sri Muktsar Sahib witnessed the highest voter turnout of 23.34 per cent followed by Fazilka (22.55 per cent) and Malerkotla (22.07 per cent) till 11 am.Pathankot recorded the lowest percentage of voter turnout of 12.44 per cent.&nbsp;

Further, while Sahibjada Ajit Singh Nagar saw 13.15 per cent voter turnout.Jalandhar reported 14.30 per cent voter turnout, Ludhiana recorded 15.58 per cent while Moga registered 16.29 per cent polling.Meanwhile, Hoshiarpur recorded 18.88 per cent while Kapurthala recorded 16.03 per cent. Mansa recorded 19.75 per cent. Moga recorded 16.29 per cent.Assembly polls for electing 117 assembly seats in Punjab will be held on February 20.

The results will be declared on March 10.In the 2017 Assembly polls in the state, the Congress had won an absolute majority by winning 77 seats, ousting the SAD-BJP government, which had been in power for 10 years.&nbsp;

Punjab recorded a voter turnout of 17.77 per cent at 11 am on Sunday in the ongoing Assembly elections. According to the Election Commission of India, Sri Muktsar Sahib witnessed the highest voter turnout of 23.

Punjab recorded a voter turnout of 17.77 per cent at 11 am on Sunday in the ongoing Assembly elections. According to the Election Commission of India, Sri Muktsar Sahib witnessed the highest voter turnout of 23.34 per cent followed by Fazilka (22.55 per cent) and Malerkotla (22.07 per cent) till 11 am.Pathankot recorded the lowest percentage of voter turnout of 12.44 per cent. Further, while Sahibjada Ajit Singh Nagar saw 13.15 per cent voter turnout.Jalandhar reported 14.30 per cent voter turnout, Ludhiana recorded 15.58 per cent while Moga registered 16.29 per cent polling.Meanwhile, Hoshiarpur recorded 18.88 per cent while Kapurthala recorded 16.03 per cent. Mansa recorded 19.75 per cent. Moga recorded 16.29 per cent.Assembly polls for electing 117 assembly seats in Punjab will be held on February 20. The results will be declared on March 10.In the 2017 Assembly polls in the state, the Congress had won an absolute majority by winning 77 seats, ousting the SAD-BJP government, which had been in power for 10 years.

Punjab reports 17.77 pc voter turnout till 11 am

india-news

India, News on India, stories on India, articles on India, India stories at Wion, India news, India latest news

india news