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Residents of Tamil Nadu’s Coimbatore city were in for a surprise when they witnessed a foreigner campaigning for the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) party for the urban body elections.

Negoita Stefan Marius, a Romanian national who is on a business trip to India, was seen draped in a red and black shawl (DMK party colours) and distributing propaganda pamphlets of the ruling party.

Marius was reportedly impressed with the schemes rolled by the DMK party, especially the free bus travel for women.

Videos of Marius riding&nbsp;a bike and distributing propaganda pamphlets went viral on social media, where he was hailed by the supporters of the ruling party.&nbsp;

In two separate clips, Stefan was purportedly seen roaming around Coimbatore without a face mask and endorsing Chief Minister MK Stalin.

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Thread: Romanian national on business Visa, Stefan Marius seen campaigning for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DMK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DMK</a> in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LocalBodyElection?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LocalBodyElection</a> in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Coimbatore?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Coimbatore</a> 
 
They say, he was impressed with <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TNGovt?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TNGovt</a> scheme to provide free bus passes for women, enabling free travel on Govt buses <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Politics?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Politics</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TamilNews?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TamilNews</a> 
 
(1/n) <a href="https://t.co/vQB9cp11I3">pic.twitter.com/vQB9cp11I3</a>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1494313374741839886?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 17, 2022</a></blockquote>
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However, the clips also caught the attention of the Indian immigration authorities who have called in Marius to explain his actions.

According to reports, the immigration authorities have sent a letter to Marius saying that he violated the Indian visa rules by campaigning for a political party.

They have asked the Romanian national to appear in-person at the Chennai office of the immigration department (Foreign Regional Registration office) with his original documents and offer an explanation by Friday (February 18) afternoon.

The letter mentions that if he fails to comply with the missive, he would be liable for prosecution under Section 14 of the Foreigners Act, 1946.

However, the authenticity of the letter could not be verified independently, as the officials&nbsp;concerned were not available for comments.

Residents of Tamil Nadu’s Coimbatore city were in for a surprise when they witnessed a foreigner campaigning for the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) party for the urban body elections.

Residents of Tamil Nadu’s Coimbatore city were in for a surprise when they witnessed a foreigner campaigning for the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) party for the urban body elections. Negoita Stefan Marius, a Romanian national who is on a business trip to India, was seen draped in a red and black shawl (DMK party colours) and distributing propaganda pamphlets of the ruling party. Marius was reportedly impressed with the schemes rolled by the DMK party, especially the free bus travel for women. Videos of Marius riding a bike and distributing propaganda pamphlets went viral on social media, where he was hailed by the supporters of the ruling party. In two separate clips, Stefan was purportedly seen roaming around Coimbatore without a face mask and endorsing Chief Minister MK Stalin. Thread: Romanian national on business Visa, Stefan Marius seen campaigning for #DMK in #LocalBodyElection in #Coimbatore They say, he was impressed with #TNGovt scheme to provide free bus passes for women, enabling free travel on Govt buses #Politics #India #TamilNews (1/n) pic.twitter.com/vQB9cp11I3 — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) February 17, 2022 × However, the clips also caught the attention of the Indian immigration authorities who have called in Marius to explain his actions. According to reports, the immigration authorities have sent a letter to Marius saying that he violated the Indian visa rules by campaigning for a political party. They have asked the Romanian national to appear in-person at the Chennai office of the immigration department (Foreign Regional Registration office) with his original documents and offer an explanation by Friday (February 18) afternoon. The letter mentions that if he fails to comply with the missive, he would be liable for prosecution under Section 14 of the Foreigners Act, 1946. However, the authenticity of the letter could not be verified independently, as the officials concerned were not available for comments.

Romanian national in trouble for canvassing votes for ruling party in Tamil Nadu polls

According to a survey by Hurun India, the number of millionaire families in India climbed by 11% to 4,58000 in 2021, yet the happiness index fell compared to the previous year.&nbsp;

According to the Hurun India Wealth Report 2021, Mumbai has the most millionaire households in India, followed by Delhi and Kolkata.

At 20,300 households, Mumbai is home to the largest number of dollar millionaires, followed by Delhi at 17,400 and Kolkata at 10,500.

According to the survey, such households have a net worth of at least Rs 70 million.

According to the Hurun India Wealth Report 2021, the number of Indian dollar-millionaire households is expected to increase by 30% over the next five years, reaching 6,00,000 by 2026.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/india-added-three-unicorns-per-month-in-2021-hurun-report-410309">Also read | India added three 'unicorns' per month in 2021: Hurun report</a> 
 
According to the survey of 350 millionaires, the number of individuals who consider themselves satisfied in their personal and professional lives has decreased to 66% in 2021, down from 72% in the previous year.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jamsetji-tata-ranked-the-worlds-top-philanthropist-in-past-100-years-two-indians-in-the-top-50-393554">Also read | Jamsetji Tata ranked the world's top philanthropist in past 100 years, two Indians in the top 50</a> 
 
The conclusions of the Hurun Report on dollar millionaires come at a time when growing inequality in the country of over 130 crore people is causing worry.

A recently released report by non-profit Oxfam pegged the wealth of top 100 richest Indians at USD 775 billion, and added that India accounted for 46 million or half of the overall people on the planet falling into extreme poverty in 2021.

The report estimated the number of Indian dollar millionaires to increase by 30 per cent to touch 6,00000 households by 2026.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

According to a survey by Hurun India, the number of millionaire families in India climbed by 11% to 4,58000 in 2021, yet the happiness index fell compared to the previous year.

According to a survey by Hurun India, the number of millionaire families in India climbed by 11% to 4,58000 in 2021, yet the happiness index fell compared to the previous year. According to the Hurun India Wealth Report 2021, Mumbai has the most millionaire households in India, followed by Delhi and Kolkata. At 20,300 households, Mumbai is home to the largest number of dollar millionaires, followed by Delhi at 17,400 and Kolkata at 10,500. According to the survey, such households have a net worth of at least Rs 70 million. According to the Hurun India Wealth Report 2021, the number of Indian dollar-millionaire households is expected to increase by 30% over the next five years, reaching 6,00,000 by 2026. Also read | India added three 'unicorns' per month in 2021: Hurun report According to the survey of 350 millionaires, the number of individuals who consider themselves satisfied in their personal and professional lives has decreased to 66% in 2021, down from 72% in the previous year. Also read | Jamsetji Tata ranked the world's top philanthropist in past 100 years, two Indians in the top 50 The conclusions of the Hurun Report on dollar millionaires come at a time when growing inequality in the country of over 130 crore people is causing worry. A recently released report by non-profit Oxfam pegged the wealth of top 100 richest Indians at USD 775 billion, and added that India accounted for 46 million or half of the overall people on the planet falling into extreme poverty in 2021. The report estimated the number of Indian dollar millionaires to increase by 30 per cent to touch 6,00000 households by 2026. (With inputs from agencies)

These are the 3 Indian cities with the most millionaire households

India, the world's largest democracy and second most populous nation had a huge challenge when Covid pandemic hit its shores. The sheer size and complexities within the country made it quite a task to battle the disease. There was no medicine, no vaccine available during initial months. Priyam Gandhi-Mody, in her book 'A Nation to Protect: Leading India through the Covid crisis', has described how India battled and emerged from the deadly crisis under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Efforts of all Indians created a compounding effect under a strong leadership that made tackling the pandemic possible.

The launch of 'A Nation to Protect' took place on February 18 at Nehru Memorial Museum and Library in New Delhi. The book was launched by Mansukh Mandaviya, Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare along with Professor Shamika Ravi (Economist) and Dr VK Paul (member of NITI Aayog).

What followed was a discussion moderated by Sudhir Chaudhary, Editor In Chief&nbsp;of WION. The discussion saw Priyam Gandhi-Mody and the eminent panel discuss aspects of India's fight against the pandemic.

<img alt="Sudhir Chaudhary, Editor In Chief, WION (Photo: Manas Joshi)" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6a0a021b-9ffb-46e0-81a4-d84cd9676d04" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Sudhir%20Chaudhary.jpeg" />

Sudhir Chaudhary, Editor In Chief, WION (Photo: Manas Joshi)

"I was able look at the situation in top-down manner," said Priyam Gandhi-Mody as she talked about her book. When asked about her approach she said that she attempted to capture the Indian response to the pandemic from an outsider's perspective.

In her opening remarks, Gandhi-Mody noted that doomsday predictions were made about India worldover.

"It was said that because of India, global Covid response would take a hit," she said. She expressed displeasure at 'political partisanship' that was observed in Indian political arena just when Prime Minister Narendra Modi was leading the country out of the grips of the pandemic.

Sudhir Chaudhary noted that a section of media was trying to cash in on the frenzy to target the establishment.

"Do you think they did a disservice to the nation through their coverage?" asked Chaudhary.

"It is often said that 'sadness is sexy'. But how sexy is it if you are going to do it at the expense of your country?" replied Gandhi-Mody. "A section of political leaders and media made this into 'us versus them' battle"

Union minister Mansukh Mandaviya said he believed that 'A Nation to Protect' describes the reality as it unfolded during last two years.

"We have seen what happens when there is a true leadership with a vision," said Mandaviya referring to PM Modi.

<img alt="A nation to protect" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5d142129-f62a-4701-a99c-33a5dbda7ee8" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/20220218_174928.jpg" />

Union minister Mansukh Mandaviya with author Priyam Gandhi-Modi (Photo: Manas Joshi)

"PM Modi is a very good listener," said Dr VK Paul, member of NITI Aayog.&nbsp;

"I am often surprised at his capacity to read extensively," said Prof Shamika Ravi, the economist who has been a member of Economic Advisory Council to the prime minister.

"So do you think Covid is man-made?" Sudhir Chaudhary asked Priyam Gandhi-Mody towards the end of the session. She said that she would like more information to come out.

'A Nation to Protect' has been published by Rupa Publications.

India, the world's largest democracy and second most populous nation had a huge challenge when Covid pandemic hit its shores. The sheer size and complexities within the country made it quite a task to battle the disease.

India, the world's largest democracy and second most populous nation had a huge challenge when Covid pandemic hit its shores. The sheer size and complexities within the country made it quite a task to battle the disease. There was no medicine, no vaccine available during initial months. Priyam Gandhi-Mody, in her book 'A Nation to Protect: Leading India through the Covid crisis', has described how India battled and emerged from the deadly crisis under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Efforts of all Indians created a compounding effect under a strong leadership that made tackling the pandemic possible. The launch of 'A Nation to Protect' took place on February 18 at Nehru Memorial Museum and Library in New Delhi. The book was launched by Mansukh Mandaviya, Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare along with Professor Shamika Ravi (Economist) and Dr VK Paul (member of NITI Aayog). What followed was a discussion moderated by Sudhir Chaudhary, Editor In Chief of WION. The discussion saw Priyam Gandhi-Mody and the eminent panel discuss aspects of India's fight against the pandemic. Sudhir Chaudhary, Editor In Chief, WION (Photo: Manas Joshi) "I was able look at the situation in top-down manner," said Priyam Gandhi-Mody as she talked about her book. When asked about her approach she said that she attempted to capture the Indian response to the pandemic from an outsider's perspective. In her opening remarks, Gandhi-Mody noted that doomsday predictions were made about India worldover. "It was said that because of India, global Covid response would take a hit," she said. She expressed displeasure at 'political partisanship' that was observed in Indian political arena just when Prime Minister Narendra Modi was leading the country out of the grips of the pandemic. Sudhir Chaudhary noted that a section of media was trying to cash in on the frenzy to target the establishment. "Do you think they did a disservice to the nation through their coverage?" asked Chaudhary. "It is often said that 'sadness is sexy'. But how sexy is it if you are going to do it at the expense of your country?" replied Gandhi-Mody. "A section of political leaders and media made this into 'us versus them' battle" Union minister Mansukh Mandaviya said he believed that 'A Nation to Protect' describes the reality as it unfolded during last two years. "We have seen what happens when there is a true leadership with a vision," said Mandaviya referring to PM Modi. Union minister Mansukh Mandaviya with author Priyam Gandhi-Modi (Photo: Manas Joshi) "PM Modi is a very good listener," said Dr VK Paul, member of NITI Aayog. "I am often surprised at his capacity to read extensively," said Prof Shamika Ravi, the economist who has been a member of Economic Advisory Council to the prime minister. "So do you think Covid is man-made?" Sudhir Chaudhary asked Priyam Gandhi-Mody towards the end of the session. She said that she would like more information to come out. 'A Nation to Protect' has been published by Rupa Publications.

A Nation to Protect: Priyam Gandhi-Mody's book brings out India's fight against Covid

The Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between India and the United Arab Emirates was signed on Friday, bolstering the strategic partnership and advancing bilateral economic and commercial engagement to new heights.

CEPA was signed during a meeting between the UAE delegation led by Minister of Economy Abdulla bin Touq Al-Marri and Minister of State for Foreign Trade Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi and India's Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal.

With the signing of CEPA, Piyush Goyal remarked in a tweet that the two countries are "entering a golden age of economic and trade cooperation." 
&nbsp;

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<h5>The Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), as it is known, is expected to boost annual bilateral non-oil trade from $60 billion to $100 billion within the next three to five years, India's Prime Minister's office said.</h5>
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During the India-UAE virtual summit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that following the visit of LG Jammu and Kashmir to the UAE, many UAE companies have shown interest in investing in the UT. We welcome investment by the UAE in all sectors, including logistics, healthcare, and hospitality in J&amp;K.

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HH <a href="https://twitter.com/MohamedBinZayed?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MohamedBinZayed</a> and I believe that the India-UAE CEPA signed today will be a game-changer in our economic ties. With enhanced market access, bilateral trade in goods should rise to $100 billion and services to $15 billion in the next 5 years.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1494695760826302464?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 18, 2022</a></blockquote>
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I am very happy that both our countries have signed the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement today. It is noteworthy that India &amp; UAE was able to conclude negotiations on such an important agreement in less than 3 months: PM Modi during India-UAE virtual summit <a href="https://t.co/gl7dppuL4q">pic.twitter.com/gl7dppuL4q</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1494686186472108039?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 18, 2022</a></blockquote>
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The Indian PM strongly condemns the recent terrorist attacks in the UAE. He said that India and the UAE would stand shoulder to shoulder against terrorism.

Talking about entrepreneurship and start-ups, PM Modi said that we can encourage startups in India and the UAE through joint incubation and joint financing. We can also cooperate on modern institutions of excellence for the skill development of our citizens.

PM Modi thanked the UAE and said, "During the COVID crisis, you took care of Indian citizens in the UAE." This year is of extreme importance for both countries. You will celebrate the 50th anniversary of the establishment of the UAE and we will start to celebrate the 75th anniversary of our freedom.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between India and the United Arab Emirates was signed on Friday, bolstering the strategic partnership and advancing bilateral economic and commercial engagement to new heights.

The Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between India and the United Arab Emirates was signed on Friday, bolstering the strategic partnership and advancing bilateral economic and commercial engagement to new heights. CEPA was signed during a meeting between the UAE delegation led by Minister of Economy Abdulla bin Touq Al-Marri and Minister of State for Foreign Trade Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi and India's Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal. With the signing of CEPA, Piyush Goyal remarked in a tweet that the two countries are "entering a golden age of economic and trade cooperation." The Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), as it is known, is expected to boost annual bilateral non-oil trade from $60 billion to $100 billion within the next three to five years, India's Prime Minister's office said. × During the India-UAE virtual summit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that following the visit of LG Jammu and Kashmir to the UAE, many UAE companies have shown interest in investing in the UT. We welcome investment by the UAE in all sectors, including logistics, healthcare, and hospitality in J&K. HH @MohamedBinZayed and I believe that the India-UAE CEPA signed today will be a game-changer in our economic ties. With enhanced market access, bilateral trade in goods should rise to $100 billion and services to $15 billion in the next 5 years. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 18, 2022 × I am very happy that both our countries have signed the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement today. It is noteworthy that India & UAE was able to conclude negotiations on such an important agreement in less than 3 months: PM Modi during India-UAE virtual summit pic.twitter.com/gl7dppuL4q — ANI (@ANI) February 18, 2022 × The Indian PM strongly condemns the recent terrorist attacks in the UAE. He said that India and the UAE would stand shoulder to shoulder against terrorism. Talking about entrepreneurship and start-ups, PM Modi said that we can encourage startups in India and the UAE through joint incubation and joint financing. We can also cooperate on modern institutions of excellence for the skill development of our citizens. PM Modi thanked the UAE and said, "During the COVID crisis, you took care of Indian citizens in the UAE." This year is of extreme importance for both countries. You will celebrate the 50th anniversary of the establishment of the UAE and we will start to celebrate the 75th anniversary of our freedom. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch | India-UAE trade deal: Negotiations were concluded in less than 3 months, says PM Modi

A students' organisation has urged the youths from Jammu and Kashmir, who are studying in other parts of the country, to focus on their education and career, control their emotions and not to write provocative things on social media.

The appeal came days after a case of sedition was registered against a minor college student from Jammu and Kashmir studying in Madhya Pradesh for allegedly posting an objectionable video about the Pulwama terror attack.

"We urge all Kashmiris studying outside Kashmir to desist from any activity that could disrupt peace," national spokesperson of the Jammu and Kashmir Students' Association, Nasir Khuehami, said in a press statement.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/now-dominos-kia-apologise-for-kashmir-post-amid-social-media-storm-451601">Now, Dominos, KIA apologise for Kashmir post amid social media storm</a>

He said the minor Kashmiri student studying in Swami Vivekanand PG College Neemuch in MP had posted the objectionable video on social media regarding the Pulwama attack.The student studying under the Prime Minister's Special Scholarship Scheme had posted the video in which he termed the Pulwama terror attack, in which 40 CRPF personnel were killed on February 14, 2019, as an act of revenge for the Babri masjid demolition, he added.

A complaint has been filed on behalf of the college against the student and the accused is presently in police custody (since Tuesday), Khuehami said, quoting college Principal Vijay Jain.

He has been arrested and booked for sedition under section Indian Penal Code (IPC) sections 124A (sedition), 153A (promoting enmity between different groups) and 505 (whoever makes, publishes or circulates any statement, rumour or report). The mobile phone and laptop of the student have been seized and are being checked, he said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/opinion-jammu-and-kashmir-with-positive-approach-on-path-of-progress-450708">Opinion-Jammu and Kashmir: With positive approach on path of progress</a>

"We urge all Kashmiri students to focus on their education and not to write provocative things on social media to add fuel to the fire. We request students to avoid debates and don't get provoked on sentiments and not involve themselves in the mess," he added.

All Kashmiri students pursuing studies outside (J&amp;K) in Indian states should be patient, keep calm and control their emotions. They should save their careers instead of getting provoked. Their life, career and well-being are more important than social media posts and they should not give anybody a chance to ruin their career, he said.

"We must respect everyone's sentiment and avoid outburst of emotions as it may hurt the sentiments of others. The objectionable post has hurt the sentiments of people that is wrong and unjustified," he said, adding that sedition is a very harsh punishment and the action will ruin the career of the minor student.

Reconciliation is the only way to further the cause of engaging with the students of Jammu and Kashmir, Khuehami said.

A students' organisation has urged the youths from Jammu and Kashmir, who are studying in other parts of the country, to focus on their education and career, control their emotions and not to write provocative things on social media.

A students' organisation has urged the youths from Jammu and Kashmir, who are studying in other parts of the country, to focus on their education and career, control their emotions and not to write provocative things on social media. The appeal came days after a case of sedition was registered against a minor college student from Jammu and Kashmir studying in Madhya Pradesh for allegedly posting an objectionable video about the Pulwama terror attack. "We urge all Kashmiris studying outside Kashmir to desist from any activity that could disrupt peace," national spokesperson of the Jammu and Kashmir Students' Association, Nasir Khuehami, said in a press statement. Also read | Now, Dominos, KIA apologise for Kashmir post amid social media storm He said the minor Kashmiri student studying in Swami Vivekanand PG College Neemuch in MP had posted the objectionable video on social media regarding the Pulwama attack.The student studying under the Prime Minister's Special Scholarship Scheme had posted the video in which he termed the Pulwama terror attack, in which 40 CRPF personnel were killed on February 14, 2019, as an act of revenge for the Babri masjid demolition, he added. A complaint has been filed on behalf of the college against the student and the accused is presently in police custody (since Tuesday), Khuehami said, quoting college Principal Vijay Jain. He has been arrested and booked for sedition under section Indian Penal Code (IPC) sections 124A (sedition), 153A (promoting enmity between different groups) and 505 (whoever makes, publishes or circulates any statement, rumour or report). The mobile phone and laptop of the student have been seized and are being checked, he said. Also read | Opinion-Jammu and Kashmir: With positive approach on path of progress "We urge all Kashmiri students to focus on their education and not to write provocative things on social media to add fuel to the fire. We request students to avoid debates and don't get provoked on sentiments and not involve themselves in the mess," he added. All Kashmiri students pursuing studies outside (J&K) in Indian states should be patient, keep calm and control their emotions. They should save their careers instead of getting provoked. Their life, career and well-being are more important than social media posts and they should not give anybody a chance to ruin their career, he said. "We must respect everyone's sentiment and avoid outburst of emotions as it may hurt the sentiments of others. The objectionable post has hurt the sentiments of people that is wrong and unjustified," he said, adding that sedition is a very harsh punishment and the action will ruin the career of the minor student. Reconciliation is the only way to further the cause of engaging with the students of Jammu and Kashmir, Khuehami said.

Focus on your education and career, avoid getting provoked: Students from J&K urged

In a money laundering case, a special court in Mumbai on Friday placed fugitive gangster Dawood Ibrahim's brother Iqbal Kaskar in the custody of the Enforcement Directorate till February 24.

The ED, which is undertaking a money laundering probe into underworld-linked property and hawala trades, took custody of Kaskar earlier in the day, based on a production warrant granted by the court.&nbsp;

Kaskar is now imprisoned in Thane jail in connection with various extortion cases.

After an interrogation on Friday, Kaskar was placed under arrest under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act and was brought before special judge MG Deshpande by the ED, which had requested his custody for further investigation. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/islamabad-must-take-credible-action-india-on-dawood-ibrahims-presence-in-pakistan-323492">Also read | Islamabad must take credible action: India on Dawood Ibrahim's presence in Pakistan</a>

According to the ED, which was represented by special public prosecutor Hiten Venegoakar, Kaskar was a significant member of the gang commanded by Dawood Ibrahim and was involved in actions such as threatening, extortion, and so on.

Because he is a key conspirator and leader of the syndicate, his interrogation may expose critical details that are in their exclusive domain, the ED warned the court.

The ED raided ten addresses in Mumbai earlier this week, including ones linked to Ibrahim's late sister Haseena Parkar, Kaskar, and a brother-in-law of mobster Chota Shakeel.

The ED case stems from a recent FIR filed by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) against Ibrahim and others under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA).

(With inputs from agencies)

In a money laundering case, a special court in Mumbai on Friday placed fugitive gangster Dawood Ibrahim's brother Iqbal Kaskar in the custody of the Enforcement Directorate till February 24.

In a money laundering case, a special court in Mumbai on Friday placed fugitive gangster Dawood Ibrahim's brother Iqbal Kaskar in the custody of the Enforcement Directorate till February 24. The ED, which is undertaking a money laundering probe into underworld-linked property and hawala trades, took custody of Kaskar earlier in the day, based on a production warrant granted by the court. Kaskar is now imprisoned in Thane jail in connection with various extortion cases. After an interrogation on Friday, Kaskar was placed under arrest under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act and was brought before special judge MG Deshpande by the ED, which had requested his custody for further investigation. Also read | Islamabad must take credible action: India on Dawood Ibrahim's presence in Pakistan According to the ED, which was represented by special public prosecutor Hiten Venegoakar, Kaskar was a significant member of the gang commanded by Dawood Ibrahim and was involved in actions such as threatening, extortion, and so on. Because he is a key conspirator and leader of the syndicate, his interrogation may expose critical details that are in their exclusive domain, the ED warned the court. The ED raided ten addresses in Mumbai earlier this week, including ones linked to Ibrahim's late sister Haseena Parkar, Kaskar, and a brother-in-law of mobster Chota Shakeel. The ED case stems from a recent FIR filed by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) against Ibrahim and others under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA). (With inputs from agencies)

Dawood Ibrahim's brother, Iqbal Kaskar held in money laundering case

Ahead of Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan's visit to Russia next week, Moscow has assured that the cooperation between the two countries is not aimed that any “third country”, which means India.

Khan's visit is the first such bilateral visit by a Pakistani prime minister to Russia in decades.

Though the dates of the visit haven't been officially announced yet, Pakistan media reports quoting diplomatic sources have confirmed that Khan is expected to visit Moscow from February 23 to 26.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In response to WION's question at the weekly Russian foreign ministry presser, spokesperson Maria Zakharova said, “I can assure you that the cooperation between Russia and Pakistan is not aimed at any third country. It is aimed at ensuring peace, security and stability in the region.”

She further said that both countries are “seeking to counter international terrorism and we seek to develop international trade”.&nbsp;

In 1999, the then Pakistani PM, Nawaz Sharif, visited Russia. It was followed by the visit of Pervez Musharraf in 2003, and Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari in 2011.

In 2017, former prime minister Shahid Khaqan went to Russia for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Summit (SCO) in Sochi, which wasn’t a bilateral visit.

The last formal bilateral meeting between both sides was when Sharif and President Vladimir Putin met on the sidelines of the SCO summit in Astana, Kazakhstan in June 2017.

Commenting on the India-Pakistan ties, the Russian spokesperson said that Mosco is “interested in seeing relations between India and Pakistan as good neighbourly relations and we would like to see the settlement of existing conflicts, for example, the Kashmir issue”.

Reiterating the long-standing position of Moscow, she said that all issues between the two countries should be resolved bilaterally under the Shimla and Lahore pacts.

Zakharova also welcomed the continuation of the 2003 ceasefire pact and the “statements by Pakistani leadership on normalising Indo-Pakistan ties."

Spokesperson Maria brushed aside the view that Moscow doesn't keep Indian sensitivities in mind in the backdrop of Imran Khan's visit.

She said, "It is nothing to do with reality. Delhi and Moscow enjoy tight cooperation and recently we had a series of contact despite the pandemic restrictions."

Russian President Putin visited Delhi in December 2021 for the annual India-Russia summit.

Later this year, PM Modi will be visiting the country as part of the annual summit. Other than that, both countries are engaging under the 2+2 foreign and defence ministers dialogue, the first of which took place last year.&nbsp;

While defence forms one of the main pillars of ties, both sides have been engaging in the economic area, Covid crisis and connectivity.

Internationally, both are members of the BRICS, SCO, RIC grouping.

The Russian foreign ministry spokesperson said, “We understand that our countries bear a huge responsibility for peace and stability in the region and the level of contact we have between our leadership, it attests to the fact that we are indeed taken into account positions of each other.”

Responding to India-Russia engagement on the Afghanistan situation, she said, “We will coordinate our joint steps in national capacity on the international arena when it comes to dealing with the crisis in the country.”

India has been part of the Moscow Format talks on Afghanistan while the Russian NSA attended the Delhi security meet involving NSAs of several countries in the region.

The NSAs meeting in Delhi saw the participation of Iran, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyz Republic, Russia, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan.

Ahead of Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan's visit to Russia next week, Moscow has assured that the cooperation between the two countries is not aimed that any “third country”, which means India.

Ahead of Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan's visit to Russia next week, Moscow has assured that the cooperation between the two countries is not aimed that any “third country”, which means India. Khan's visit is the first such bilateral visit by a Pakistani prime minister to Russia in decades. Though the dates of the visit haven't been officially announced yet, Pakistan media reports quoting diplomatic sources have confirmed that Khan is expected to visit Moscow from February 23 to 26. In response to WION's question at the weekly Russian foreign ministry presser, spokesperson Maria Zakharova said, “I can assure you that the cooperation between Russia and Pakistan is not aimed at any third country. It is aimed at ensuring peace, security and stability in the region.” She further said that both countries are “seeking to counter international terrorism and we seek to develop international trade”. In 1999, the then Pakistani PM, Nawaz Sharif, visited Russia. It was followed by the visit of Pervez Musharraf in 2003, and Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari in 2011. In 2017, former prime minister Shahid Khaqan went to Russia for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Summit (SCO) in Sochi, which wasn’t a bilateral visit. The last formal bilateral meeting between both sides was when Sharif and President Vladimir Putin met on the sidelines of the SCO summit in Astana, Kazakhstan in June 2017. Commenting on the India-Pakistan ties, the Russian spokesperson said that Mosco is “interested in seeing relations between India and Pakistan as good neighbourly relations and we would like to see the settlement of existing conflicts, for example, the Kashmir issue”. Reiterating the long-standing position of Moscow, she said that all issues between the two countries should be resolved bilaterally under the Shimla and Lahore pacts. Zakharova also welcomed the continuation of the 2003 ceasefire pact and the “statements by Pakistani leadership on normalising Indo-Pakistan ties." Spokesperson Maria brushed aside the view that Moscow doesn't keep Indian sensitivities in mind in the backdrop of Imran Khan's visit. She said, "It is nothing to do with reality. Delhi and Moscow enjoy tight cooperation and recently we had a series of contact despite the pandemic restrictions." Russian President Putin visited Delhi in December 2021 for the annual India-Russia summit. Later this year, PM Modi will be visiting the country as part of the annual summit. Other than that, both countries are engaging under the 2+2 foreign and defence ministers dialogue, the first of which took place last year. While defence forms one of the main pillars of ties, both sides have been engaging in the economic area, Covid crisis and connectivity. Internationally, both are members of the BRICS, SCO, RIC grouping. The Russian foreign ministry spokesperson said, “We understand that our countries bear a huge responsibility for peace and stability in the region and the level of contact we have between our leadership, it attests to the fact that we are indeed taken into account positions of each other.” Responding to India-Russia engagement on the Afghanistan situation, she said, “We will coordinate our joint steps in national capacity on the international arena when it comes to dealing with the crisis in the country.” India has been part of the Moscow Format talks on Afghanistan while the Russian NSA attended the Delhi security meet involving NSAs of several countries in the region. The NSAs meeting in Delhi saw the participation of Iran, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyz Republic, Russia, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan.

Ahead of PM Khan's visit, Russia assures Moscow-Islamabad cooperation not against India

The Jammu and Kashmir government will start issuing trilingual land passbooks to the landholders starting from February 19 (Saturday).

As the name suggests, the land passbooks would contain details of a resident’s land records in Hindi, Urdu and English languages.

The aim is to make it an easy and simple document for reference and record in Hindi, Urdu and English language under the government’s initiative towards good governance and ease of convenience for the citizens.

“To begin with, seven tehsils (townships) of Srinagar district and 21 tehsils of Jammu district would receive the land passbooks across 28 locations,” the J&amp;K government said in a statement.&nbsp;

The land passbooks will be issued to every landholder in the Union Territory.

With scanning and digitisation of land records already under implementation for the convenience of citizens, the revenue department has also framed the Jammu and Kashmir Land Passbook Rules 2022 to procure land passbooks through online mode.

“The land passbooks will be issued to every landholder. It will contain past settlement records to enable him to make use for credit facilities and for other related matters. The land passbook prescribed by the Revenue Department is true to the record and can be generated online by landholder without visiting any revenue office,” it said.&nbsp;

Asserting that the land passbook is a step towards e-governance, the government said that the document will be a valid entity carrying the same evidentiary value as if being certified copies of Record-of-Rights before courts and financial institutions.

It is an authoritative document for grant of financial assistance by a financial institution, it said.

''Each land passbooks has a unique ID and QR code as an additional security feature. With the help of QR code, any institution, individual or an agency can verify the credentials and authenticity of the Land Passbook,” the government said.

The Jammu and Kashmir government will start issuing trilingual land passbooks to the landholders starting from February 19 (Saturday). As the name suggests, the land passbooks would contain details of a resident’s land records in Hindi, Urdu and English languages.

The Jammu and Kashmir government will start issuing trilingual land passbooks to the landholders starting from February 19 (Saturday). As the name suggests, the land passbooks would contain details of a resident’s land records in Hindi, Urdu and English languages. The aim is to make it an easy and simple document for reference and record in Hindi, Urdu and English language under the government’s initiative towards good governance and ease of convenience for the citizens. “To begin with, seven tehsils (townships) of Srinagar district and 21 tehsils of Jammu district would receive the land passbooks across 28 locations,” the J&K government said in a statement. The land passbooks will be issued to every landholder in the Union Territory. With scanning and digitisation of land records already under implementation for the convenience of citizens, the revenue department has also framed the Jammu and Kashmir Land Passbook Rules 2022 to procure land passbooks through online mode. “The land passbooks will be issued to every landholder. It will contain past settlement records to enable him to make use for credit facilities and for other related matters. The land passbook prescribed by the Revenue Department is true to the record and can be generated online by landholder without visiting any revenue office,” it said. Asserting that the land passbook is a step towards e-governance, the government said that the document will be a valid entity carrying the same evidentiary value as if being certified copies of Record-of-Rights before courts and financial institutions. It is an authoritative document for grant of financial assistance by a financial institution, it said. ''Each land passbooks has a unique ID and QR code as an additional security feature. With the help of QR code, any institution, individual or an agency can verify the credentials and authenticity of the Land Passbook,” the government said.

Jammu & Kashmir government all set to roll out land passbooks for residents

India's&nbsp;crude&nbsp;oil&nbsp;imports&nbsp;in&nbsp;January slipped&nbsp;from&nbsp;one-year&nbsp;highs&nbsp;hit in the previous month, though fuel demand is expected to recover as several states&nbsp;ease&nbsp;coronavirus restrictions after a decline in cases.

Crude&nbsp;oil&nbsp;imports&nbsp;fell about 1.7% to 19.26 million tonnes last month&nbsp;from&nbsp;a&nbsp;year&nbsp;earlier, government data showed on Friday. Lower&nbsp;imports&nbsp;corresponded with the country's&nbsp;oil&nbsp;demand falling 0.2% on an annual basis in&nbsp;January.

It's impossible to ignore the impact of the Omicron variant of coronavirus and that along with high&nbsp;oil&nbsp;prices hampered fuel demand in&nbsp;January, said Craig Erlam, senior market analyst at OANDA.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bill-gates-to-address-bioasia-in-fireside-chat-with-ktr-454338">&nbsp;Bill Gates to address BioAsia in fireside chat with KTR</a>

"The price will continue to be a headwind as far as demand is concerned in the near-term but with the country emerging&nbsp;from&nbsp;another COVID wave, I'd expect to see it continue to recover."

January&nbsp;crude&nbsp;imports&nbsp;decreased by about 2.6%&nbsp;from&nbsp;the previous month but were 2.9% higher&nbsp;from&nbsp;pre-pandemic levels of December 2019.

The International Energy Agency (IEA) in its monthly report said Indian&nbsp;oil&nbsp;demand is projected to increase&nbsp;by 320,000 barrels per day (bpd) in 2022, which would surpass the 2019 rate by 40,000 bpd, with LPG/ethane, gasoline and naphtha rising the most.

Oil&nbsp;product&nbsp;imports&nbsp;rose 12.4% to 3.43 million tonnes&nbsp;from&nbsp;a&nbsp;year&nbsp;earlier in&nbsp;January, while exports jumped 14.4%.

Refiners in Asia are waiting to resume&nbsp;imports&nbsp;from&nbsp;Iran amid hopes of an agreement to revive Tehran's 2015 nuclear deal with world powers. A refiner&nbsp;from&nbsp;India, Iran's No. 2 customer, is in talks with Iran for sourcing its&nbsp;oil, an Indian refining source said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/npci-to-deploy-upi-payments-platform-in-nepal-1st-outside-india-454204">NPCI to deploy UPI payments platform in Nepal, 1st outside India</a>

India's&nbsp;oil&nbsp;imports&nbsp;from&nbsp;Iraq surged to a 29-month high last month, data&nbsp;from&nbsp;shipping and industry sources showed.

January&nbsp;oil&nbsp;imports&nbsp;of&nbsp;India's&nbsp;Reliance Industries, owner of the world's biggest refining complex, jumped about 8.3%&nbsp;from&nbsp;December.

India's crude oil imports in January slipped from one-year highs hit in the previous month, though fuel demand is expected to recover as several states ease coronavirus restrictions after a decline in cases.

India's crude oil imports in January slipped from one-year highs hit in the previous month, though fuel demand is expected to recover as several states ease coronavirus restrictions after a decline in cases. Crude oil imports fell about 1.7% to 19.26 million tonnes last month from a year earlier, government data showed on Friday. Lower imports corresponded with the country's oil demand falling 0.2% on an annual basis in January. It's impossible to ignore the impact of the Omicron variant of coronavirus and that along with high oil prices hampered fuel demand in January, said Craig Erlam, senior market analyst at OANDA. Also read | Bill Gates to address BioAsia in fireside chat with KTR "The price will continue to be a headwind as far as demand is concerned in the near-term but with the country emerging from another COVID wave, I'd expect to see it continue to recover." January crude imports decreased by about 2.6% from the previous month but were 2.9% higher from pre-pandemic levels of December 2019. The International Energy Agency (IEA) in its monthly report said Indian oil demand is projected to increase by 320,000 barrels per day (bpd) in 2022, which would surpass the 2019 rate by 40,000 bpd, with LPG/ethane, gasoline and naphtha rising the most. Oil product imports rose 12.4% to 3.43 million tonnes from a year earlier in January, while exports jumped 14.4%. Refiners in Asia are waiting to resume imports from Iran amid hopes of an agreement to revive Tehran's 2015 nuclear deal with world powers. A refiner from India, Iran's No. 2 customer, is in talks with Iran for sourcing its oil, an Indian refining source said. Also read | NPCI to deploy UPI payments platform in Nepal, 1st outside India India's oil imports from Iraq surged to a 29-month high last month, data from shipping and industry sources showed. January oil imports of India's Reliance Industries, owner of the world's biggest refining complex, jumped about 8.3% from December.

India's Jan crude oil imports ease from one-year highs

Microsoft co-founder and co-chair of the Bill and&nbsp;Melinda Gates Foundation Bill Gates will speak about the road ahead for life science and healthcare industries at BioAsia 2022, beginning from February 24. 
 
Gates will engage in a fireside chat with Telangana`s Industry and Information Technology Minister K T Rama Rao during the virtual event. 
 
The fireside chat will be around a range of themes including the Covid-19 pandemic, learnings during the past two years, emerging healthcare trends, and what can be done to strengthen the global healthcare system going forward. 
 
The 19th edition of BioAsia, the largest annual global Biotechnology and Life Sciences convention of Asia, will see the participation of prominent leaders from the life sciences and healthcare industry.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-to-meet-afghan-sikh-hindu-community-members-soon-454207">PM Modi to meet Afghan Sikh, Hindu community members soon</a> 
 
Alex Gorsky, Executive Chairman, Johnson &amp; Johnson and Geoff Martha, Chairman &amp; CEO of Medtronic, will address the participants at the two-day event. 
 
"I am delighted that the 2022 edition of BioAsia will feature some of the most influential and visionary leaders. I look forward to an interesting session with Gates to assess the industry`s current position and determine the roadmap ahead. The delegates of BioAsia across the world would also benefit by listening to Gorsky and Martha who come with immense knowledge around the global life sciences industry," said Rama Rao. 
 
Bill Gates is known for his incredible philanthropic contributions through his foundation, and for his keen interest in technology, science, and emerging challenges such as climate change. In addition to sharing lessons learnt from the pandemic, Gates will also talk about the milestones achieved by the global partnership and the road ahead. 
 
With this year's theme being 'Future Ready'&nbsp;the focus of the chat will be on the new approaches and capabilities that can equip the world to be prepared and what is the role of stakeholders including the government, industry, etc.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-makes-helmets-and-safety-harnesses-a-must-for-kids-riding-pillion-454019">India makes helmets and safety harnesses a must for kids riding pillion</a> 
 
Alex Gorsky, Executive Chairman of the world's largest healthcare company Johnson &amp; Johnson, would deliver the keynote address during the event. Gorsky was also serving as the CEO of the company until recently and under his leadership of over 3 decades, Johnson &amp; Johnson was consistently recognized as one of the most innovative and best managed companies in the world. 
 
Gorsky is also a member of the board of iconic global organisations including Apple and IBM, as well as the Wharton School of Business. He will share his perspectives around topics of importance for the life sciences industry like impact of the pandemic, supply chain disruptions, innovation ecosystem and start-ups, role of new technologies within healthcare such as AI, ML, Deep Learning etc, among others.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Should India revisit the relevance of reservation?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-should-india-revisit-the-relevance-of-reservation-428872/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Another prominent leader, Geoffrey S. Martha, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Medtronic will also keynote in this year`s event. Medtronic is the world`s leading medical technology company, with $29 billion in annual revenue, more than 90,000 employees, and operations reaching more than 150 countries worldwide. 
 
Martha will address BioAsia attendees on the global trends in the medtech sector including the role India and Asia can play in the global efforts to accelerate the medtech growth.

Microsoft co-founder and co-chair of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation Bill Gates will speak about the road ahead for life science and healthcare industries at BioAsia 2022, beginning from February 24.

Microsoft co-founder and co-chair of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation Bill Gates will speak about the road ahead for life science and healthcare industries at BioAsia 2022, beginning from February 24. Gates will engage in a fireside chat with Telangana`s Industry and Information Technology Minister K T Rama Rao during the virtual event. The fireside chat will be around a range of themes including the Covid-19 pandemic, learnings during the past two years, emerging healthcare trends, and what can be done to strengthen the global healthcare system going forward. The 19th edition of BioAsia, the largest annual global Biotechnology and Life Sciences convention of Asia, will see the participation of prominent leaders from the life sciences and healthcare industry. Also read | PM Modi to meet Afghan Sikh, Hindu community members soon Alex Gorsky, Executive Chairman, Johnson & Johnson and Geoff Martha, Chairman & CEO of Medtronic, will address the participants at the two-day event. "I am delighted that the 2022 edition of BioAsia will feature some of the most influential and visionary leaders. I look forward to an interesting session with Gates to assess the industry`s current position and determine the roadmap ahead. The delegates of BioAsia across the world would also benefit by listening to Gorsky and Martha who come with immense knowledge around the global life sciences industry," said Rama Rao. Bill Gates is known for his incredible philanthropic contributions through his foundation, and for his keen interest in technology, science, and emerging challenges such as climate change. In addition to sharing lessons learnt from the pandemic, Gates will also talk about the milestones achieved by the global partnership and the road ahead. With this year's theme being 'Future Ready' the focus of the chat will be on the new approaches and capabilities that can equip the world to be prepared and what is the role of stakeholders including the government, industry, etc. Also read | India makes helmets and safety harnesses a must for kids riding pillion Alex Gorsky, Executive Chairman of the world's largest healthcare company Johnson & Johnson, would deliver the keynote address during the event. Gorsky was also serving as the CEO of the company until recently and under his leadership of over 3 decades, Johnson & Johnson was consistently recognized as one of the most innovative and best managed companies in the world. Gorsky is also a member of the board of iconic global organisations including Apple and IBM, as well as the Wharton School of Business. He will share his perspectives around topics of importance for the life sciences industry like impact of the pandemic, supply chain disruptions, innovation ecosystem and start-ups, role of new technologies within healthcare such as AI, ML, Deep Learning etc, among others. Watch | Gravitas: Should India revisit the relevance of reservation? Another prominent leader, Geoffrey S. Martha, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Medtronic will also keynote in this year`s event. Medtronic is the world`s leading medical technology company, with $29 billion in annual revenue, more than 90,000 employees, and operations reaching more than 150 countries worldwide. Martha will address BioAsia attendees on the global trends in the medtech sector including the role India and Asia can play in the global efforts to accelerate the medtech growth.

Bill Gates to address BioAsia in fireside chat with KTR

After almost two years of wait, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Delhi University finally reopens. Students & staff welcome the move.

India: Delhi University reopens after 2 years

US State department's Assistant Secretary for the Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs Donald Lu in a briefing, where WION was present said, "On the issue of Russia and Ukraine, I can say that there was an open and honest discussion between Secretary Blinken and External Affairs Minister Jaishankar".&nbsp;

He explained that the discussion is "reflective of the close relationship we have with one another. This is a complex issue for the United States. It’s a complex issue for India as well. We share values, and we talk about every issue, including the tough ones."

This is the second such public acknowledgement from Washington that the matter has been discussed with New Delhi.&nbsp;

Earlier in January, Deputy Secretary of state Wendy Sherman discussed the matter with India's foreign secretary Harsh Shringla. The Ministry of external affairs also confirmed the issue being discussed.&nbsp;

Ministry of external affairs spokesperson Arindam Bagchi called "honest conversation" a "good description" of the issue being discussed. He said, "it was an exchange of views on how we see it".&nbsp;

India has made two statements at the United Nations Security Council on the matter calling for dialogue and de-escalation.

Meanwhile, the European Union has been sharing its perspective with India.&nbsp;

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Calling India "friend and partner" EU sources said "we have been presenting to the Indian side, our views" on Russia/Ukraine crisis and "rules-based system will be in interest to all".

The development is important as EAM Jaishankar will be in Europe from February 18 to 23, and will visit Germany and France.&nbsp;

In Germany, EAM will take part in Munich Security Conference and participate in a panel discussion on the Indo-Pacific. Later, he will visit Paris to take part in the EU ministerial forum for cooperation in the Indo-Pacific on February 22. He will hold a bilateral with French foreign minister Jean-Yves Le Drian.&nbsp;

The visit to Europe will be closely watched given it happens in the shadow of the Ukraine crisis. The Indian foreign minister is expected to hold a whole host of bilateral meetings, including with a number of European FMs.&nbsp;He will also be part of the much-awaited Australia, India, Indonesia foreign ministers trilateral.&nbsp;

No India, Australia, France trilateral is expected given ties still have not normalised between Canberra and Paris since the Aukus pact.

US State department's Assistant Secretary for the Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs Donald Lu in a briefing, where WION was present said, "On the issue of Russia and Ukraine, I can say that there was an open and honest discussion between Secretary Blinken and External Affairs Minister Jaishankar".

US State department's Assistant Secretary for the Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs Donald Lu in a briefing, where WION was present said, "On the issue of Russia and Ukraine, I can say that there was an open and honest discussion between Secretary Blinken and External Affairs Minister Jaishankar". He explained that the discussion is "reflective of the close relationship we have with one another. This is a complex issue for the United States. It’s a complex issue for India as well. We share values, and we talk about every issue, including the tough ones." This is the second such public acknowledgement from Washington that the matter has been discussed with New Delhi. Earlier in January, Deputy Secretary of state Wendy Sherman discussed the matter with India's foreign secretary Harsh Shringla. The Ministry of external affairs also confirmed the issue being discussed. Ministry of external affairs spokesperson Arindam Bagchi called "honest conversation" a "good description" of the issue being discussed. He said, "it was an exchange of views on how we see it". India has made two statements at the United Nations Security Council on the matter calling for dialogue and de-escalation. Meanwhile, the European Union has been sharing its perspective with India. Also read | India pushes back on Singapore PM's 'criminal, rapists' remarks about Indian MPs Calling India "friend and partner" EU sources said "we have been presenting to the Indian side, our views" on Russia/Ukraine crisis and "rules-based system will be in interest to all". The development is important as EAM Jaishankar will be in Europe from February 18 to 23, and will visit Germany and France. In Germany, EAM will take part in Munich Security Conference and participate in a panel discussion on the Indo-Pacific. Later, he will visit Paris to take part in the EU ministerial forum for cooperation in the Indo-Pacific on February 22. He will hold a bilateral with French foreign minister Jean-Yves Le Drian. The visit to Europe will be closely watched given it happens in the shadow of the Ukraine crisis. The Indian foreign minister is expected to hold a whole host of bilateral meetings, including with a number of European FMs. He will also be part of the much-awaited Australia, India, Indonesia foreign ministers trilateral. No India, Australia, France trilateral is expected given ties still have not normalised between Canberra and Paris since the Aukus pact.

US, EU keep India clued up on Ukraine crisis

In an exclusive conversation with WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma, Igor Polikha, the Ukrainian ambassador to India, has stated that he does not believe a war with Russia is imminent.&nbsp;

When asked about the concerns of Indian parents whose children are studying in Ukraine, he stated that "The situation in Ukraine is not as critical and panicky as some people are trying to make it out to be.I understand that parents are concerned. I don't believe a war is imminent.It is an Indian citizen's right to choose whether to return to India or remain in Ukraine".

In the wake of the 'uncertainties,' India recommended its people, particularly students, to leave Ukraine temporarily and avoid non-essential travel to and within the country.&nbsp; 
 
Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-sign-of-russian-troops-withdrawal-yet-ukraine-president-voldymyr-zelensky-453772" hreflang="en">'No sign of Russian troops' withdrawal yet': Ukraine President Zelensky</a>

WION's professionalism in providing firsthand coverage of the situation from Kyiv was praised by the ambassador.

He also chastised a portion of the media for sensationalising Russia-Ukraine relations.

He also praised India's leadership for taking a balanced approach.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Ukraine's President, Volodymyr Zelensky, stated today that his country has not seen proof that Russia is withdrawing more troops.

"We don't see any retreat of Russian forces from Ukraine's borders yet," President Voldymyr Zelensky told reporters.

It comes after Russia stated it was drawing out additional troops—this time from the Crimean peninsula.

Earlier today, after declaring that some troops had pulled back, Russia said that military drills in Crimea had ended and troops were returning to their barracks.

Moscow's defence ministry said: "Units of the southern military district, having completed their participation in tactical exercises, are moving to their permanent deployment points."

(With inputs from agencies)

In an exclusive conversation with WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma, Igor Polikha, the Ukrainian ambassador to India, has stated that he does not believe a war with Russia is imminent.

In an exclusive conversation with WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma, Igor Polikha, the Ukrainian ambassador to India, has stated that he does not believe a war with Russia is imminent. When asked about the concerns of Indian parents whose children are studying in Ukraine, he stated that "The situation in Ukraine is not as critical and panicky as some people are trying to make it out to be.I understand that parents are concerned. I don't believe a war is imminent.It is an Indian citizen's right to choose whether to return to India or remain in Ukraine". In the wake of the 'uncertainties,' India recommended its people, particularly students, to leave Ukraine temporarily and avoid non-essential travel to and within the country. Also read | 'No sign of Russian troops' withdrawal yet': Ukraine President Zelensky WION's professionalism in providing firsthand coverage of the situation from Kyiv was praised by the ambassador. He also chastised a portion of the media for sensationalising Russia-Ukraine relations. He also praised India's leadership for taking a balanced approach. Meanwhile, Ukraine's President, Volodymyr Zelensky, stated today that his country has not seen proof that Russia is withdrawing more troops. "We don't see any retreat of Russian forces from Ukraine's borders yet," President Voldymyr Zelensky told reporters. It comes after Russia stated it was drawing out additional troops—this time from the Crimean peninsula. Earlier today, after declaring that some troops had pulled back, Russia said that military drills in Crimea had ended and troops were returning to their barracks. Moscow's defence ministry said: "Units of the southern military district, having completed their participation in tactical exercises, are moving to their permanent deployment points." (With inputs from agencies)

Watch | 'Understand parents' concern': Ukrainian envoy assures safety of Indian students

In an exclusive conversation with WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma, Ukrainian Ambassador to India Igor Polikha has said that the ''situation (in Kyiv) is strenuous but not critical.''

Although Western media houses had claimed that ''war is emminent'' and Russia will invade Ukraine on February 16, Polikha said, ''Our president never confirmed any date for invasion.''

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-sign-of-russian-troops-withdrawal-yet-ukraine-president-voldymyr-zelensky-453772" hreflang="en">'No sign of Russian troops' withdrawal yet': Ukraine President Zelensky</a>

Lauding WION's professionalism in its direct coverage of the conflict from Kyiv, Polikha slammed a section of media for sensationalising the tensions between Russia and Ukraine. He also appreciated the balanced approach adopted by the Indian government.

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Ukraine staged military drills and defiant displays of flag-waving patriotism on Wednesday as Western powers warned Russia is continuing to mass forces for a possible invasion.

The demonstration of Ukrainian firepower contrasted with images on Russian state media that were said to show Moscow's forces bringing an end to a major exercise in occupied Crimea.

On Tuesday, Ukraine said the websites of the country's defence ministry and armed forces, as well as two banks, had been hit by a cyberattack of the kind that US intelligence fears would precede a Russian attack.

"It cannot be excluded that the aggressor is resorting to dirty tricks," Ukraine's communications watchdog said, in reference to Russia.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/polands-minister-przydacz-sees-indias-positive-role-amid-the-ukraine-russia-crisis-453809" hreflang="en">Poland's Minister Przydacz sees India's 'positive' role amid the Ukraine-Russia crisis</a>

The United States and NATO have said Russia was still building up troops around Ukraine on Wednesday despite Moscow's insistence it was pulling back, questioning President Vladimir Putin's stated desire to negotiate a solution to the crisis.

Russia says it never planned to attack Ukraine but wants to lay down "red lines" to prevent its neighbour from joining NATO, which it sees as a threat to its own security.

The Kremlin said Putin was keen to negotiate with the United States, which has offered discussions on arms control and confidence-building measures while ruling out a veto on future NATO membership for Ukraine.

But Russia also said it would be ready to re-route energy exports to other markets if it was hit by sanctions, which Washington and its allies have threatened if it invades Ukraine.

Finance Minister Anton Siluanov said sanctions against Russian banks would be "unpleasant" but the state would ensure all deposits with banks and transactions were secured.

"They say we have a financial shield in the form of gold and forex reserves, budget surplus ... low debt," he told reporters.

Russia's huge build-up of troops, missiles and warships around Ukraine, which US intelligence warns could turn quickly into an invasion, is being billed as Europe's worst security crisis since the Cold War.&nbsp;

Russian President Vladimir Putin has demanded Ukraine be forbidden from pursuing its ambition to join NATO and wants to redraw the security map of eastern Europe, rolling back Western influence.

In an exclusive conversation with WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma, Ukrainian Ambassador to India Igor Polikha has said that the ''situation (in Kyiv) is strenuous but not critical.

In an exclusive conversation with WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma, Ukrainian Ambassador to India Igor Polikha has said that the ''situation (in Kyiv) is strenuous but not critical.'' Although Western media houses had claimed that ''war is emminent'' and Russia will invade Ukraine on February 16, Polikha said, ''Our president never confirmed any date for invasion.'' Also read | 'No sign of Russian troops' withdrawal yet': Ukraine President Zelensky Lauding WION's professionalism in its direct coverage of the conflict from Kyiv, Polikha slammed a section of media for sensationalising the tensions between Russia and Ukraine. He also appreciated the balanced approach adopted by the Indian government. Ukraine staged military drills and defiant displays of flag-waving patriotism on Wednesday as Western powers warned Russia is continuing to mass forces for a possible invasion. The demonstration of Ukrainian firepower contrasted with images on Russian state media that were said to show Moscow's forces bringing an end to a major exercise in occupied Crimea. On Tuesday, Ukraine said the websites of the country's defence ministry and armed forces, as well as two banks, had been hit by a cyberattack of the kind that US intelligence fears would precede a Russian attack. "It cannot be excluded that the aggressor is resorting to dirty tricks," Ukraine's communications watchdog said, in reference to Russia. Also read | Poland's Minister Przydacz sees India's 'positive' role amid the Ukraine-Russia crisis The United States and NATO have said Russia was still building up troops around Ukraine on Wednesday despite Moscow's insistence it was pulling back, questioning President Vladimir Putin's stated desire to negotiate a solution to the crisis. Russia says it never planned to attack Ukraine but wants to lay down "red lines" to prevent its neighbour from joining NATO, which it sees as a threat to its own security. The Kremlin said Putin was keen to negotiate with the United States, which has offered discussions on arms control and confidence-building measures while ruling out a veto on future NATO membership for Ukraine. But Russia also said it would be ready to re-route energy exports to other markets if it was hit by sanctions, which Washington and its allies have threatened if it invades Ukraine. Finance Minister Anton Siluanov said sanctions against Russian banks would be "unpleasant" but the state would ensure all deposits with banks and transactions were secured. "They say we have a financial shield in the form of gold and forex reserves, budget surplus ... low debt," he told reporters. Russia's huge build-up of troops, missiles and warships around Ukraine, which US intelligence warns could turn quickly into an invasion, is being billed as Europe's worst security crisis since the Cold War. Russian President Vladimir Putin has demanded Ukraine be forbidden from pursuing its ambition to join NATO and wants to redraw the security map of eastern Europe, rolling back Western influence.

Exclusive: 'Situation is strenuous but not critical,' Ukrainian ambassador to India tells WION

In the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, at least 13 people have died after falling into a well during a wedding ceremony.

The victims, all women and children, were sitting on a metal slab that covered the well when it fell beneath their weight, according to police.

The tragedy, which occurred in Nebua Naurangia village in Kushinagar district, resulted in the injuries of ten more people.

The fatalities were described by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi as "heart wrenching." Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath expressed sorrow over the incident. 
 
<img alt="Narendra Modi " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="922d6d08-94b1-423e-8fe5-776265f8c637" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/modi_0.JPG" /> 
 
Following the tragedy, the bereaved family announced that they would not participate in the 'baraat' (groom's wedding procession).

The groom, Amit Kushwaha, was the only one who travelled to the wedding.

The groom's father, Parmeshwar Kushwaha, stated that the pre-wedding ceremony of "Matkorba" on the occasion of "Haldi" was in progress beside an old and damaged well in the village, approximately 10 kilometres from Kushinagar district headquarters, when disaster struck.&nbsp;

Some women and children were sitting on the iron grille when it suddenly broke and they fell into the well, District Magistrate (DM) S Rajalingam said.

Narrating the incident, Kushwaha said, "Actually, the well is old and it was covered with a slab. During the ritual, the girls were standing on the slab when it broke and they all fell inside the well. "

"It is heartbreaking and I have decided that no procession will go with my son for the wedding. Only the groom will go and get married in a very simple manner as we are not in the state to celebrate, "he added.

"We were singing and dancing when suddenly the slab broke and, within seconds, we all fell into the well. I was drowning in the well, but somehow I was rescued, "a woman from the village said.

Ramesh Chaurasia lost his wife, Mamta Devi. His brother's wife, Shakuntala Devi, and two-year-old daughter Pari Chaurasia, are also among the dead.

"I don't know what to do or say as I have lost three family members. My wife died, and I don't know how I'm going to survive. I was not with them, as the programme was meant for women. We all tried to save them, and many of the women and girls were rescued by the villagers, but the ambulance was very late, "he said.

Inspector Girjesh Upadhaya arrived at the scene after receiving information about the terrible incident.

All 23 people who had fallen into the well were rescued and taken to the hospital by police and townspeople.

Doctors declared thirteen of them dead, according to officials.

Senior administrative and law enforcement personnel also arrived at the scene.

In the tragedy, no one from Kushwaha's family died.

Payal, his granddaughter, was rescued after falling into the well.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

In the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, at least 13 people have died after falling into a well during a wedding ceremony. The victims, all women and children, were sitting on a metal slab that covered the well when it fell beneath their weight, according to police.

In the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, at least 13 people have died after falling into a well during a wedding ceremony. The victims, all women and children, were sitting on a metal slab that covered the well when it fell beneath their weight, according to police. The tragedy, which occurred in Nebua Naurangia village in Kushinagar district, resulted in the injuries of ten more people. The fatalities were described by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi as "heart wrenching." Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath expressed sorrow over the incident. Following the tragedy, the bereaved family announced that they would not participate in the 'baraat' (groom's wedding procession). The groom, Amit Kushwaha, was the only one who travelled to the wedding. The groom's father, Parmeshwar Kushwaha, stated that the pre-wedding ceremony of "Matkorba" on the occasion of "Haldi" was in progress beside an old and damaged well in the village, approximately 10 kilometres from Kushinagar district headquarters, when disaster struck. Some women and children were sitting on the iron grille when it suddenly broke and they fell into the well, District Magistrate (DM) S Rajalingam said. Narrating the incident, Kushwaha said, "Actually, the well is old and it was covered with a slab. During the ritual, the girls were standing on the slab when it broke and they all fell inside the well. " "It is heartbreaking and I have decided that no procession will go with my son for the wedding. Only the groom will go and get married in a very simple manner as we are not in the state to celebrate, "he added. "We were singing and dancing when suddenly the slab broke and, within seconds, we all fell into the well. I was drowning in the well, but somehow I was rescued, "a woman from the village said. Ramesh Chaurasia lost his wife, Mamta Devi. His brother's wife, Shakuntala Devi, and two-year-old daughter Pari Chaurasia, are also among the dead. "I don't know what to do or say as I have lost three family members. My wife died, and I don't know how I'm going to survive. I was not with them, as the programme was meant for women. We all tried to save them, and many of the women and girls were rescued by the villagers, but the ambulance was very late, "he said. Inspector Girjesh Upadhaya arrived at the scene after receiving information about the terrible incident. All 23 people who had fallen into the well were rescued and taken to the hospital by police and townspeople. Doctors declared thirteen of them dead, according to officials. Senior administrative and law enforcement personnel also arrived at the scene. In the tragedy, no one from Kushwaha's family died. Payal, his granddaughter, was rescued after falling into the well. (With inputs from agencies)

India: 13 women and girls killed after falling into well during marriage celebration

A 43-year-old man who was detained by the Delhi Police for allegedly attempting to enter the residence of India's National Security Advisor, Ajit Doval, is suffering from hallucinations and is disoriented.

He told the police that he was wearing a "chip" and was being "controlled by someone externally".

However, police refuted the claim since no chip was detected in a MRI scan.

He is now being interrogated by the police.

According to the primary investigation, he seems to be mentally disturbed. He was driving a rented car, Delhi Police said.

"He suffers from hallucinations and is mentally disturbed and disoriented. He has been saying different things throughout the interrogation. His thoughts don’t appear to be aligned, "a senior police officer said.&nbsp;

The incident occurred at 7:30 a.m. on Wednesday morning in front of Doval's house on Tughlaq Road.

According to sources, the 43-year-old attempted to enter the NSA's mansion but was stopped at the entrance by security officers.&nbsp;

"He tried to crash the gate with a rented red-colored SUV. The car was hired from Noida, "the source said.&nbsp;

According to Delhi Police officials, the man, a Karnataka native, arrived in Delhi on February 13.

As a result of the incident, security has been tightened up around Doval's home.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A 43-year-old man who was detained by the Delhi Police for allegedly attempting to enter the residence of India's National Security Advisor, Ajit Doval, is suffering from hallucinations and is disoriented.

A 43-year-old man who was detained by the Delhi Police for allegedly attempting to enter the residence of India's National Security Advisor, Ajit Doval, is suffering from hallucinations and is disoriented. He told the police that he was wearing a "chip" and was being "controlled by someone externally". However, police refuted the claim since no chip was detected in a MRI scan. He is now being interrogated by the police. According to the primary investigation, he seems to be mentally disturbed. He was driving a rented car, Delhi Police said. "He suffers from hallucinations and is mentally disturbed and disoriented. He has been saying different things throughout the interrogation. His thoughts don’t appear to be aligned, "a senior police officer said. The incident occurred at 7:30 a.m. on Wednesday morning in front of Doval's house on Tughlaq Road. According to sources, the 43-year-old attempted to enter the NSA's mansion but was stopped at the entrance by security officers. "He tried to crash the gate with a rented red-colored SUV. The car was hired from Noida, "the source said. According to Delhi Police officials, the man, a Karnataka native, arrived in Delhi on February 13. As a result of the incident, security has been tightened up around Doval's home. (With inputs from agencies)

Man detained for trying to enter India's Defence Advisor’s house, claims ‘being controlled by chip'

The Indian government has raised the issue of Singapore's Prime Minister's comments in Parliament with Singapore's Envoy.&nbsp;

The issue was brought up in response to Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong's comments regarding Lok Sabha (India's Parliament) members facing criminal charges.&nbsp;

According to sources in Delhi, Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong's remarks were "uncalled for." 
 
On February 15, Singapore's Prime Minister, Lee Hsien Loong, said that "Nehru's India has become one where, according to media reports, almost half the MPs in the Lok Sabha have criminal charges pending against them, including charges of rape and murder."

Singapore's Prime Minister, Lee Hsien Loong, referenced the legacy of India's first prime minister, Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru, during a parliamentary debate on democracy in Singapore, saying that the country's foundation was set with high ideals and noble principles.

PM Lee Hsien Loong, quoting Pt. Nehru, observed that most countries are created and begin with high aspirations and noble principles.

But, more often than not, things change over decades and generations, well beyond the original leaders and the pioneer generation.

"Most countries are founded and start off on the basis of high ideals and noble values. But more often than not, beyond the founding leaders and the pioneer generation, over decades and generations, things change, "Lee said on Tuesday during the debate on the Committee of Privileges’ report on complaints about untruths told by former Workers’ Party lawmaker Raeesah Khan.

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"Things start off with a passionate intensity. The leaders, who fought for and won independence, are often exceptional individuals of great courage, immense culture, and outstanding ability. They came through the crucible of fire and emerged as leaders of men and nations. They are the David Ben-Gurions, the Jawaharlal Nehrus, and we have our own too, "he said.

They seek to satisfy the great expectations of their peoples to construct a bold new world and shape a new future for their peoples and countries, imbued with enormous personal prestige.However, as that initial fervour wears off, successive generations frequently struggle to keep up the energy and desire, according to Lee.

Politics is changing, and people's trust in politicians is eroding.After a period, the electorate begins to believe that this is the usual and that nothing can be done about it.As a result, standards are lowered, trust is undermined, and the country continues to deteriorate, according to the Singapore Prime Minister.&nbsp;

"Many political systems today would be quite unrecognisable to their founding leaders. Ben-Gurion's Israel has morphed into one which can barely form a government, despite four general elections in two years. Meanwhile, a stream of senior politicians and officials in Israel face a litany of criminal charges, some have gone to jail.

"While Nehru's India has become one where, according to media reports, almost half the MPs in the Lok Sabha have criminal charges pending against them, including charges of rape and murder. Though it is also said that many of these allegations are politically motivated," Lee said.&nbsp;

Each successive generation, according to the 70-year-old prime minister, must maintain and expand on the system that Singapore has inherited.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The Indian government has raised the issue of Singapore's Prime Minister's comments in Parliament with Singapore's Envoy. The issue was brought up in response to Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong's comments regarding Lok Sabha (India's Parliament) members facing criminal charges.

The Indian government has raised the issue of Singapore's Prime Minister's comments in Parliament with Singapore's Envoy. The issue was brought up in response to Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong's comments regarding Lok Sabha (India's Parliament) members facing criminal charges. According to sources in Delhi, Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong's remarks were "uncalled for." On February 15, Singapore's Prime Minister, Lee Hsien Loong, said that "Nehru's India has become one where, according to media reports, almost half the MPs in the Lok Sabha have criminal charges pending against them, including charges of rape and murder." Singapore's Prime Minister, Lee Hsien Loong, referenced the legacy of India's first prime minister, Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru, during a parliamentary debate on democracy in Singapore, saying that the country's foundation was set with high ideals and noble principles. PM Lee Hsien Loong, quoting Pt. Nehru, observed that most countries are created and begin with high aspirations and noble principles. But, more often than not, things change over decades and generations, well beyond the original leaders and the pioneer generation. "Most countries are founded and start off on the basis of high ideals and noble values. But more often than not, beyond the founding leaders and the pioneer generation, over decades and generations, things change, "Lee said on Tuesday during the debate on the Committee of Privileges’ report on complaints about untruths told by former Workers’ Party lawmaker Raeesah Khan. × "Things start off with a passionate intensity. The leaders, who fought for and won independence, are often exceptional individuals of great courage, immense culture, and outstanding ability. They came through the crucible of fire and emerged as leaders of men and nations. They are the David Ben-Gurions, the Jawaharlal Nehrus, and we have our own too, "he said. They seek to satisfy the great expectations of their peoples to construct a bold new world and shape a new future for their peoples and countries, imbued with enormous personal prestige.However, as that initial fervour wears off, successive generations frequently struggle to keep up the energy and desire, according to Lee. Politics is changing, and people's trust in politicians is eroding.After a period, the electorate begins to believe that this is the usual and that nothing can be done about it.As a result, standards are lowered, trust is undermined, and the country continues to deteriorate, according to the Singapore Prime Minister. "Many political systems today would be quite unrecognisable to their founding leaders. Ben-Gurion's Israel has morphed into one which can barely form a government, despite four general elections in two years. Meanwhile, a stream of senior politicians and officials in Israel face a litany of criminal charges, some have gone to jail. "While Nehru's India has become one where, according to media reports, almost half the MPs in the Lok Sabha have criminal charges pending against them, including charges of rape and murder. Though it is also said that many of these allegations are politically motivated," Lee said. Each successive generation, according to the 70-year-old prime minister, must maintain and expand on the system that Singapore has inherited. (With inputs from agencies)

India pushes back on Singapore PM's 'criminal, rapists' remarks about Indian MPs

The Indian government has raised the issue of Singapore's Prime Minister's comments in Parliament with Singapore's Envoy.&nbsp;

The issue was brought up in response to Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong's comments regarding Lok Sabha (India's Parliament) members facing criminal charges.&nbsp;

According to sources in Delhi, Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong's remarks were "uncalled for." 
 
&nbsp;

On February 15, Singapore's Prime Minister, Lee Hsien Loong, said that "Nehru's India has become one where, according to media reports, almost half the MPs in the Lok Sabha have criminal charges pending against them, including charges of rape and murder."

Singapore's Prime Minister, Lee Hsien Loong, referenced the legacy of India's first prime minister, Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru, during a parliamentary debate on democracy in Singapore, saying that the country's foundation was set with high ideals and noble principles.

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PM Lee Hsien Loong, quoting Pt. Nehru, observed that most countries are created and begin with high aspirations and noble principles.

But, more often than not, things change over decades and generations, well beyond the original leaders and the pioneer generation.

"Most countries are founded and start off on the basis of high ideals and noble values. But more often than not, beyond the founding leaders and the pioneer generation, over decades and generations, things change, "Lee said on Tuesday during the debate on the Committee of Privileges’ report on complaints about untruths told by former Workers’ Party lawmaker Raeesah Khan.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Indian government has raised the issue of Singapore's Prime Minister's comments in Parliament with Singapore's Envoy. The issue was brought up in response to Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong's comments regarding Lok Sabha (India's Parliament) members facing criminal charges. According to sources in Delhi, Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong's remarks were "uncalled for." On February 15, Singapore's Prime Minister, Lee Hsien Loong, said that "Nehru's India has become one where, according to media reports, almost half the MPs in the Lok Sabha have criminal charges pending against them, including charges of rape and murder." Singapore's Prime Minister, Lee Hsien Loong, referenced the legacy of India's first prime minister, Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru, during a parliamentary debate on democracy in Singapore, saying that the country's foundation was set with high ideals and noble principles. × PM Lee Hsien Loong, quoting Pt. Nehru, observed that most countries are created and begin with high aspirations and noble principles. But, more often than not, things change over decades and generations, well beyond the original leaders and the pioneer generation. "Most countries are founded and start off on the basis of high ideals and noble values. But more often than not, beyond the founding leaders and the pioneer generation, over decades and generations, things change, "Lee said on Tuesday during the debate on the Committee of Privileges’ report on complaints about untruths told by former Workers’ Party lawmaker Raeesah Khan. (With inputs from agencies)

Lee Hsien Loong's "criminal, rapists" remark on Indian MPs: New Delhi raises issue with Singapore envoy

New safety standards for two-wheelers carrying children aged nine months to four years have been announced by the Indian Ministry of Road Transport and Highways.

According to new laws, children must now wear a crash helmet and a safety harness.

The new guidelines also set a 40-kilometer-per-hour speed limit for two-wheelers with children as pillion passengers.

The Motor Vehicles Act has been revised to include these regulations, which will take effect in a year.

Both the rider and the pillion will wear safety belts, allowing kids to be safely tethered to the rider.&nbsp;

According to the new standards, safety harnesses must be lightweight, sturdy, and made of nylon, with a weight capacity of up to 30 kg.

While riding pillion, children will be obliged to wear standard two-wheeler or bicycle safety helmets.

The ministry recommended changing the motor vehicle rules in October 2021 to include new safety standards for two-wheelers carrying youngsters.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

New safety standards for two-wheelers carrying children aged nine months to four years have been announced by the Indian Ministry of Road Transport and Highways.

New safety standards for two-wheelers carrying children aged nine months to four years have been announced by the Indian Ministry of Road Transport and Highways. According to new laws, children must now wear a crash helmet and a safety harness. The new guidelines also set a 40-kilometer-per-hour speed limit for two-wheelers with children as pillion passengers. The Motor Vehicles Act has been revised to include these regulations, which will take effect in a year. Both the rider and the pillion will wear safety belts, allowing kids to be safely tethered to the rider. According to the new standards, safety harnesses must be lightweight, sturdy, and made of nylon, with a weight capacity of up to 30 kg. While riding pillion, children will be obliged to wear standard two-wheeler or bicycle safety helmets. The ministry recommended changing the motor vehicle rules in October 2021 to include new safety standards for two-wheelers carrying youngsters. (With inputs from agencies)

India makes helmets and safety harnesses a must for kids riding pillion

After the Indian embassy issued an advisory asking its nationals including students to consider leaving Ukraine due to tensions with Russia, reports claim the government may increase&nbsp;flights to Ukraine to bring back Indians.

The Indian embassy had asked citizens to avoid "non-essential" travel to Ukraine. India's ministry of external affairs has set up a control room to provide information to Indian nationals in Ukraine.

"The embassy of India has been receiving several appeals about non-availability of flights from Ukraine to India. In this regard, students are advised not to resort to panic, but book the earliest available and convenient flights to travel to India," the MEA&nbsp;said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-nationals-including-students-should-leave-ukraine-says-government-advisory-453383">Also Read:&nbsp;Indian nationals including students may consider leaving Ukraine, says government advisory</a>

"To meet the additional demand, more flights are being planned in the near future, including from Ukrainian International Airlines and Air India. Details on the same would be shared by the embassy as and when confirmed," it said&nbsp;as reports indicated&nbsp;that students were finding it difficult to return due to hike in airfare.

Several countries have pulled out their diplomatic staff from Ukraine due to tensions with Russia at the border.

Amid reports of difficulties faced by Indians in Ukraine, reports say a parliamentary committee is likely to discuss the issue.

The contact details of the helpline in the Indian embassy in Ukraine are: Phone: +380 997300428 +380 997300483. Email: cons1.Kyiv@mea.gov.in.

The contact details of the control room in Delhi are: Phone +91 11 23012113, +91 11 23014104, +91 11 23017905 and 1800118797 (toll free). Email: situationroom@mea.gov.in.

(With inputs from Agencies)

After the Indian embassy issued an advisory asking its nationals including students to consider leaving Ukraine due to tensions with Russia, reports claim the government may increase flights to Ukraine to bring back Indians.

After the Indian embassy issued an advisory asking its nationals including students to consider leaving Ukraine due to tensions with Russia, reports claim the government may increase flights to Ukraine to bring back Indians. The Indian embassy had asked citizens to avoid "non-essential" travel to Ukraine. India's ministry of external affairs has set up a control room to provide information to Indian nationals in Ukraine. "The embassy of India has been receiving several appeals about non-availability of flights from Ukraine to India. In this regard, students are advised not to resort to panic, but book the earliest available and convenient flights to travel to India," the MEA said. Also Read: Indian nationals including students may consider leaving Ukraine, says government advisory "To meet the additional demand, more flights are being planned in the near future, including from Ukrainian International Airlines and Air India. Details on the same would be shared by the embassy as and when confirmed," it said as reports indicated that students were finding it difficult to return due to hike in airfare. Several countries have pulled out their diplomatic staff from Ukraine due to tensions with Russia at the border. Amid reports of difficulties faced by Indians in Ukraine, reports say a parliamentary committee is likely to discuss the issue. The contact details of the helpline in the Indian embassy in Ukraine are: Phone: +380 997300428 +380 997300483. Email: cons1.Kyiv@mea.gov.in. The contact details of the control room in Delhi are: Phone +91 11 23012113, +91 11 23014104, +91 11 23017905 and 1800118797 (toll free). Email: situationroom@mea.gov.in. (With inputs from Agencies)

Ukraine crisis: Government planning more flights to bring back Indians; helpline setup

India on Tuesday hit out at Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) for its "misleading" comments in the wake of the dress code row, and said issues are resolved in the country in accordance with its constitutional framework as well as democratic ethos.

External affairs ministry spokesman Arindam Bagchi said that the OIC continues to be "hijacked" by vested interests to further their nefarious propaganda against India.

"Issues in India are considered and resolved in accordance with our constitutional framework and mechanisms, as well as democratic ethos and polity," Bagchi said.

"The communal mindset of the OIC Secretariat does not allow for a proper appreciation of these realities. OIC continues to be hijacked by vested interests to further their nefarious propaganda against India," he added

"As a result, it has only harmed its own reputation," he said.

The spokesperson was replying to a query on the matter.

In the wake of the dress code row in certain schools in Karnataka, the OIC general secretariat asked India to ensure the safety, security and wellbeing of the Muslim community while protecting the way of life of its members.&nbsp;

India on Tuesday hit out at Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) for its "misleading" comments in the wake of the dress code row, and said issues are resolved in the country in accordance with its constitutional framework as well as democratic ethos.

India on Tuesday hit out at Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) for its "misleading" comments in the wake of the dress code row, and said issues are resolved in the country in accordance with its constitutional framework as well as democratic ethos. External affairs ministry spokesman Arindam Bagchi said that the OIC continues to be "hijacked" by vested interests to further their nefarious propaganda against India. "Issues in India are considered and resolved in accordance with our constitutional framework and mechanisms, as well as democratic ethos and polity," Bagchi said. "The communal mindset of the OIC Secretariat does not allow for a proper appreciation of these realities. OIC continues to be hijacked by vested interests to further their nefarious propaganda against India," he added "As a result, it has only harmed its own reputation," he said. The spokesperson was replying to a query on the matter. In the wake of the dress code row in certain schools in Karnataka, the OIC general secretariat asked India to ensure the safety, security and wellbeing of the Muslim community while protecting the way of life of its members.

India hits out at OIC for commenting on dress code row

India's income tax authorities have conducted searches at multiple premises of Chinese telecoms equipment maker Huawei Technologies as part of a tax investigation.

The searches were conducted at Huawei's office premises in New Delhi, neighbouring Gurugram and tech hub Bengaluru on Tuesday.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/new-escalation-in-us-china-battle-china-responds-to-huawei-trade-ban-299686/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The officials were looking at the financial documents, account books, and Huawei's Indian businesses as well as overseas transactions.&nbsp;

"We have been informed of the visit of (the) income tax team to our office and also of their meeting with some personnel," Huawei said in a statement.

"Huawei is confident our operations in India are firmly compliant with all laws and regulations. We will approach related government departments for more information and fully cooperate as per the rules and regulations."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-government-to-ban-more-chinese-apps-453150">Also read |&nbsp;Indian government to ban more Chinese apps</a>

Earlier this week, India's home ministry banned 54 mobile applications of Chinese origin, including the popular game Garena Free Fire, several news outlets reported.

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has also conducted searches and frozen assets of Chinese-controlled companies and non banking financial companies (NBFCs) dishing out instant loans through mobile apps in India.

Tensions between New Delhi and Beijing have been running high since a deadly 2020 clash involving their militaries near Line of Actual Control (LAC). Anti-China sentiment has grown in India since then, sparking calls for a boycott of goods from the neighbouring country.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/india-china-standoff-why-area-along-pangong-lake-became-a-flashpoint-362844">Also see |&nbsp;India-China standoff: Why area along Pangong lake became a flashpoint</a>

India is the world's second-biggest market by number of phone users, and the government has justified the bans on the apps, saying they threatened its sovereignty and integrity.

Last year India overlooked Huawei when it named foreign network equipment suppliers allowed to carry out 5G trials.

The tax department had last year conducted searches against Chinese mobile communication and handset manufacturing companies like Xiaomi and Oppo and their linked persons and claimed to have detected alleged unaccounted income worth over Rs 6,500 crore due to violation of the Indian tax law and regulations.

In 2020, the government had banned TikTok and a host of other popular short video apps from China.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

India's income tax authorities have conducted searches at multiple premises of Chinese telecoms equipment maker Huawei Technologies as part of a tax investigation.

India's income tax authorities have conducted searches at multiple premises of Chinese telecoms equipment maker Huawei Technologies as part of a tax investigation. The searches were conducted at Huawei's office premises in New Delhi, neighbouring Gurugram and tech hub Bengaluru on Tuesday. The officials were looking at the financial documents, account books, and Huawei's Indian businesses as well as overseas transactions. "We have been informed of the visit of (the) income tax team to our office and also of their meeting with some personnel," Huawei said in a statement. "Huawei is confident our operations in India are firmly compliant with all laws and regulations. We will approach related government departments for more information and fully cooperate as per the rules and regulations." Also read | Indian government to ban more Chinese apps Earlier this week, India's home ministry banned 54 mobile applications of Chinese origin, including the popular game Garena Free Fire, several news outlets reported. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has also conducted searches and frozen assets of Chinese-controlled companies and non banking financial companies (NBFCs) dishing out instant loans through mobile apps in India. Tensions between New Delhi and Beijing have been running high since a deadly 2020 clash involving their militaries near Line of Actual Control (LAC). Anti-China sentiment has grown in India since then, sparking calls for a boycott of goods from the neighbouring country. Also see | India-China standoff: Why area along Pangong lake became a flashpoint India is the world's second-biggest market by number of phone users, and the government has justified the bans on the apps, saying they threatened its sovereignty and integrity. Last year India overlooked Huawei when it named foreign network equipment suppliers allowed to carry out 5G trials. The tax department had last year conducted searches against Chinese mobile communication and handset manufacturing companies like Xiaomi and Oppo and their linked persons and claimed to have detected alleged unaccounted income worth over Rs 6,500 crore due to violation of the Indian tax law and regulations. In 2020, the government had banned TikTok and a host of other popular short video apps from China. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian tax authorities search premises of Chinese telecom company Huawei

In South Kashmir's Anantnag district, a famous water stream called Brengi is vanishing into a sinkhole that formed a few days ago.

Brengi is known for its brown trout species, and with the formation of the sinkhole, all the water in the stream is&nbsp;vanishing,&nbsp;leaving the stream dry. 
 
The sinkhole and the drying of the stream have created havoc for aquatic life. Many fish could be seen dead on the dry riverbed. 
 
So far, the government has not been able to find a solution to the problem. 
 
The government says they have managed to divert some water from the stream to other&nbsp;tributaries, but they will only take a final call on the sinkhole once the&nbsp;research teams submit their reports. 
 
Three teams from Kashmir University, NIT, and the Geology&nbsp;Department have visited the spot to prepare a report, after which the government will decide on how to fill the sinkhole. 
 
"The water has been diverted through a channel. We don't want to make a hasty decision to fill the sinkhole without proper advice from the three teams that are working on it. We are working on a comprehensive&nbsp;report so that a conclusive way is found. A final report by all three teams will determine our plan of action. This area is not new to sinkhole phenomena. We have also brought in the Fisheries department to shift aquatic life to nearby streams, "said Piyush Singla, DC Anantnag. 
 
In an order issued today, the government warned journalists not to get too close to the sinkhole. 
 
The order said that "It has been observed that despite restrictions being imposed on any assembly of the public or movement of individuals near the sinkhole at Wandevalgam, a number of media personnel continue to move close to and into the sinkhole, posing a threat to their own lives. This in turn attracts the public near the sinkhole, which increases the threat to life and makes crowd control difficult for the administration. Hence, all media personnel are hereby advised and warned not to violate the restrictions imposed around sinkhole." 
 
<img alt="Sinkhole" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a889f6f9-82b7-40d3-a26c-bf7f14d7c1d3" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%284%29_122.jpg" /> 
 
While the teams are working together to develop a strategy to fill the sinkhole, the government&nbsp;says that it's not the first time that a sinkhole has formed in the area. 
 
"The main reason for this is the topography of the area. It is called limestone cast topography. This happened 27 years ago as well. The region is prone to sinkholes, and we are sure it will happen in the future as well. We are talking to experts and finalising a report, after which a decision on filling the sinkhole will be taken, "said Syed Muiz Qadri, Tehsildar, Kokernag. 
 
The final conclusive report by the three scientific teams working on it will be submitted on February 18.

In South Kashmir's Anantnag district, a famous water stream called Brengi is vanishing into a sinkhole that formed a few days ago. Brengi is known for its brown trout species, and with the formation of the sinkhole, all the water in the stream is vanishing, leaving the stream dry.

In South Kashmir's Anantnag district, a famous water stream called Brengi is vanishing into a sinkhole that formed a few days ago. Brengi is known for its brown trout species, and with the formation of the sinkhole, all the water in the stream is vanishing, leaving the stream dry. The sinkhole and the drying of the stream have created havoc for aquatic life. Many fish could be seen dead on the dry riverbed. So far, the government has not been able to find a solution to the problem. The government says they have managed to divert some water from the stream to other tributaries, but they will only take a final call on the sinkhole once the research teams submit their reports. Three teams from Kashmir University, NIT, and the Geology Department have visited the spot to prepare a report, after which the government will decide on how to fill the sinkhole. "The water has been diverted through a channel. We don't want to make a hasty decision to fill the sinkhole without proper advice from the three teams that are working on it. We are working on a comprehensive report so that a conclusive way is found. A final report by all three teams will determine our plan of action. This area is not new to sinkhole phenomena. We have also brought in the Fisheries department to shift aquatic life to nearby streams, "said Piyush Singla, DC Anantnag. In an order issued today, the government warned journalists not to get too close to the sinkhole. The order said that "It has been observed that despite restrictions being imposed on any assembly of the public or movement of individuals near the sinkhole at Wandevalgam, a number of media personnel continue to move close to and into the sinkhole, posing a threat to their own lives. This in turn attracts the public near the sinkhole, which increases the threat to life and makes crowd control difficult for the administration. Hence, all media personnel are hereby advised and warned not to violate the restrictions imposed around sinkhole." While the teams are working together to develop a strategy to fill the sinkhole, the government says that it's not the first time that a sinkhole has formed in the area. "The main reason for this is the topography of the area. It is called limestone cast topography. This happened 27 years ago as well. The region is prone to sinkholes, and we are sure it will happen in the future as well. We are talking to experts and finalising a report, after which a decision on filling the sinkhole will be taken, "said Syed Muiz Qadri, Tehsildar, Kokernag. The final conclusive report by the three scientific teams working on it will be submitted on February 18.

Kashmir’s famous trout fish stream vanishes into a sinkhole

The Income-tax department has conducted searches at multiple premises of Chinese telecom company Huawei in the country as part of a tax evasion investigation, official sources said on Wednesday.

The raids were launched at the company's premises in Delhi, Gurugram (Haryana) and Bengaluru in Karnataka on Tuesday.

Sources said the officials looked at financial documents, account books and company records as part of a tax evasion investigation against the company, its Indian businesses and overseas transactions.Some records have been seized too, they said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sovereign-right-to-tax-this-is-what-nirmala-sitharaman-said-about-indias-cryptocurrency-tax-in-parliament-452425">'Sovereign right' to tax: This is what Nirmala Sitharaman said about India's cryptocurrency tax in parliament</a> 
&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; 
The company said its operations in the country were "firmly compliant" with the law. "We have been informed of the visit of Income Tax team to our office and also of their meeting with some personnel.

Huawei is confident our operations in India are firmly compliant to all laws and regulations. We will approach related Government departments for more information and fully cooperate as per the rules and regulations and follow the right procedure," the company said in a statement.

The government has kept Huawei out of trials for 5G services. However, telecom operators have been allowed to source telecom gear from Huawei and ZTE under their old agreements for maintaining their networks but they will need approval of the government before getting into any new business agreement as per National Security Directive on Telecommunication Sector.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/how-will-tax-on-virtual-digital-assets-impact-crypto-investors-in-india-coinswitch-ceo-answers-451545">How will tax on virtual digital assets impact Crypto investors in India? CoinSwitch CEO answers</a>

The tax department had last year conducted searches against Chinese mobile communication and handset manufacturing companies like Xiaomi and Oppo and their linked persons and claimed to have detected alleged unaccounted income worth over Rs 6,500 crore due to violation of the Indian tax law and regulations.

Earlier this week, the Information and Technology ministry blocked 54 more apps with Chinese links, including Tencent Xriver, Nice Video baidu, Viva Video Editor, and gaming app Garena Free Fire Illuminate, citing security and privacy concerns.

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has also conducted searches and frozen assets of Chinese-controlled companies and non-banking financial companies (NBFCs) dishing out instant loans through mobile apps in India.

The Income-tax department has conducted searches at multiple premises of Chinese telecom company Huawei in the country as part of a tax evasion investigation, official sources said on Wednesday.

The Income-tax department has conducted searches at multiple premises of Chinese telecom company Huawei in the country as part of a tax evasion investigation, official sources said on Wednesday. The raids were launched at the company's premises in Delhi, Gurugram (Haryana) and Bengaluru in Karnataka on Tuesday. Sources said the officials looked at financial documents, account books and company records as part of a tax evasion investigation against the company, its Indian businesses and overseas transactions.Some records have been seized too, they said. Also read | 'Sovereign right' to tax: This is what Nirmala Sitharaman said about India's cryptocurrency tax in parliament The company said its operations in the country were "firmly compliant" with the law. "We have been informed of the visit of Income Tax team to our office and also of their meeting with some personnel. Huawei is confident our operations in India are firmly compliant to all laws and regulations. We will approach related Government departments for more information and fully cooperate as per the rules and regulations and follow the right procedure," the company said in a statement. The government has kept Huawei out of trials for 5G services. However, telecom operators have been allowed to source telecom gear from Huawei and ZTE under their old agreements for maintaining their networks but they will need approval of the government before getting into any new business agreement as per National Security Directive on Telecommunication Sector. Also read | How will tax on virtual digital assets impact Crypto investors in India? CoinSwitch CEO answers The tax department had last year conducted searches against Chinese mobile communication and handset manufacturing companies like Xiaomi and Oppo and their linked persons and claimed to have detected alleged unaccounted income worth over Rs 6,500 crore due to violation of the Indian tax law and regulations. Earlier this week, the Information and Technology ministry blocked 54 more apps with Chinese links, including Tencent Xriver, Nice Video baidu, Viva Video Editor, and gaming app Garena Free Fire Illuminate, citing security and privacy concerns. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has also conducted searches and frozen assets of Chinese-controlled companies and non-banking financial companies (NBFCs) dishing out instant loans through mobile apps in India.

I-T department conducts searches on China's Huawei over tax evasion investigation

The chair of the United Nations Security Council's counter-terror committee Ambassador T S Tirumurti has expressed concerns over links between Taliban, Al Qaida, and Pakistan-based terror groups such as Lashkar e-Tayyiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed.

Links between Taliban and LeT, JeM concerning, says UNSC's counter terror committee chair Tirumurti

Aimed at motivating young women to take up sailing as an adventure sport, an Indian Army team of nine women officers has set sail on a Chennai-Visakhapatnam-Chennai expedition.

Heading out to sea from the Chennai port, the team of women sailors are led by Major Mukta S Gautam and will be covering a distance of nearly 900 nautical miles or 1700 kilometres.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-male-indias-defence-secretary-reaffirms-capacity-building-for-maldives-defence-force-453385" hreflang="en">In Malé, India's defence secretary reaffirms capacity building for Maldives defence force</a>

Organised by Army Southern Wing Sailing Command Node and EME Sailing Association, Secunderabad, this maiden expedition by the crew that comprises officers of the rank major and captain, will demonstrate the strength and vigour of women officers in the Indian Army.

The expedition was flagged off from Chennai Port by Dr. Tamilisai Soundararajan, Governor of Telangana and Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry, in presence of senior Officers of the Indian Army.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Led by Major Mukta S Gautam, these are the nine brave <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianArmy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianArmy</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/women?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#women</a> officers who are undertaking the first-ever offshore sailing expedition , in order to promote <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/sailing?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#sailing</a> and encourage young women to join the <a href="https://twitter.com/adgpi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@adgpi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Chennai?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Chennai</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianArmedForces?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianArmedForces</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EmpowerWomen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EmpowerWomen</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Defence?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Defence</a> <a href="https://t.co/rpjdookHWy">https://t.co/rpjdookHWy</a> <a href="https://t.co/lKYalnZNCo">pic.twitter.com/lKYalnZNCo</a>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1493564359007940610?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
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The Governor emphasised that Indian women are shattering all possible glass ceilings and making their own mark, setting new benchmarks. She said that this expedition would not

Only give an impetus to sailing as a sport, but also inspire and motivate young girls to join the Indian Army, don Olive green uniforms and serve the nation.

Lt Gen TSA Narayanan, Commandant MCEME (Military College of Electronics and Mechanical Engineering), congratulated the women officers for having completed their gruelling training and being selected for the expedition. He said that the event was another step towards women empowerment and enhancing the role of women officers in the Army.

The Sailing Association at MCEME has been taking efforts to promote sailing and has groomed sailors of national and international repute. They have also undertaken numerous expeditions in recent decades. These include sea routes such as&nbsp;Mumbai-Kochi, Mumbai-Goa-Mumbai and the Around the Indian Peninsula Offshore sailing expedition, among others.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Aimed at motivating young women to take up sailing as an adventure sport, an Indian Army team of nine women officers has set sail on a Chennai-Visakhapatnam-Chennai expedition.

Aimed at motivating young women to take up sailing as an adventure sport, an Indian Army team of nine women officers has set sail on a Chennai-Visakhapatnam-Chennai expedition. Heading out to sea from the Chennai port, the team of women sailors are led by Major Mukta S Gautam and will be covering a distance of nearly 900 nautical miles or 1700 kilometres. Also read | In Malé, India's defence secretary reaffirms capacity building for Maldives defence force Organised by Army Southern Wing Sailing Command Node and EME Sailing Association, Secunderabad, this maiden expedition by the crew that comprises officers of the rank major and captain, will demonstrate the strength and vigour of women officers in the Indian Army. The expedition was flagged off from Chennai Port by Dr. Tamilisai Soundararajan, Governor of Telangana and Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry, in presence of senior Officers of the Indian Army. Led by Major Mukta S Gautam, these are the nine brave #IndianArmy #women officers who are undertaking the first-ever offshore sailing expedition , in order to promote #sailing and encourage young women to join the @adgpi #Chennai #India #IndianArmedForces #EmpowerWomen #Defence https://t.co/rpjdookHWy pic.twitter.com/lKYalnZNCo — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) February 15, 2022 × The Governor emphasised that Indian women are shattering all possible glass ceilings and making their own mark, setting new benchmarks. She said that this expedition would not Only give an impetus to sailing as a sport, but also inspire and motivate young girls to join the Indian Army, don Olive green uniforms and serve the nation. Lt Gen TSA Narayanan, Commandant MCEME (Military College of Electronics and Mechanical Engineering), congratulated the women officers for having completed their gruelling training and being selected for the expedition. He said that the event was another step towards women empowerment and enhancing the role of women officers in the Army. The Sailing Association at MCEME has been taking efforts to promote sailing and has groomed sailors of national and international repute. They have also undertaken numerous expeditions in recent decades. These include sea routes such as Mumbai-Kochi, Mumbai-Goa-Mumbai and the Around the Indian Peninsula Offshore sailing expedition, among others.

In a first, all-women Indian Army team undertakes offshore sailing expedition off India's east coast

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