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The poll season is back in Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. The ruling party, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), on Saturday announced the names of 107 candidates for the assembly polls in the state. &nbsp;

The incumbent Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has been fielded from Gorakhpur city. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/prime-minister-narendra-modi-interacts-with-startups-calls-for-innovating-for-india-from-india-444939" hreflang="en">Prime Minister Narendra Modi interacts with startups, calls for innovating 'for India, from India' &nbsp;</a>

Although the elections for the 403-member Uttar Pradesh assembly will be held in seven phases, the party has announced the names of the candidates for the seats, which are going to the polls in the first two phases. &nbsp;

The elections in the state will begin from February 10. &nbsp;

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Joint press conference by Shri <a href="https://twitter.com/dpradhanbjp?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@dpradhanbjp</a> and Shri <a href="https://twitter.com/ArunSinghbjp?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ArunSinghbjp</a> at BJP HQ in New Delhi. <a href="https://t.co/gTvtrQUbPT">https://t.co/gTvtrQUbPT</a>
— BJP (@BJP4India) <a href="https://twitter.com/BJP4India/status/1482250983984234497?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
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During a press conference at the BJP's headquarters, Uttar Pradesh in-charge and Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan along with the party general secretary Arun Singh released the list. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/general-bipin-rawat-copter-crash-what-is-controlled-flight-into-terrain-444914" hreflang="en">General Bipin Rawat copter crash: What is Controlled Flight into Terrain?</a>

CM Adityanath will be the candidate of the party from Gorakhpur City and Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya will contest from Sirathu, said Pradhan. &nbsp;&nbsp;

"The BJP has provided welfare and sensitive governance in Uttar Pradesh in the last five years. We are confident that the people of UP will again bless us in this great festival of 2022 with the same clarity," the BJP tweeted quoting Pradhan. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The poll season is back in Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. The ruling party, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), on Saturday announced the names of 107 candidates for the assembly polls in the state.

The poll season is back in Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. The ruling party, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), on Saturday announced the names of 107 candidates for the assembly polls in the state. The incumbent Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has been fielded from Gorakhpur city. Also Read: Prime Minister Narendra Modi interacts with startups, calls for innovating 'for India, from India' Although the elections for the 403-member Uttar Pradesh assembly will be held in seven phases, the party has announced the names of the candidates for the seats, which are going to the polls in the first two phases. The elections in the state will begin from February 10. Joint press conference by Shri @dpradhanbjp and Shri @ArunSinghbjp at BJP HQ in New Delhi. https://t.co/gTvtrQUbPT — BJP (@BJP4India) January 15, 2022 × During a press conference at the BJP's headquarters, Uttar Pradesh in-charge and Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan along with the party general secretary Arun Singh released the list. Also Read: General Bipin Rawat copter crash: What is Controlled Flight into Terrain? CM Adityanath will be the candidate of the party from Gorakhpur City and Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya will contest from Sirathu, said Pradhan. "The BJP has provided welfare and sensitive governance in Uttar Pradesh in the last five years. We are confident that the people of UP will again bless us in this great festival of 2022 with the same clarity," the BJP tweeted quoting Pradhan. (With inputs from agencies)

BJP announces list of names of 107 candidates for polls in India’s UP state

In an interaction with startups,&nbsp;Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday called for innovating 'for India and from India' to scale new milestones. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The interaction was held as a part of Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav. Modi interacted with over 150 startups via video conferencing under "Celebrating Innovation Ecosystem" section of the event. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-narendra-modi-president-ram-nath-kovind-laud-indian-armys-contributions-towards-national-safety-444926" hreflang="en">PM Narendra Modi, President Ram Nath Kovind laud Indian Army's contributions towards national safety</a>

"Our startups are changing the rules of the game. I believe that startups are going to be the backbone of New India. Let us innovate for India, innovate from India," the PM said, while interacting with the youngsters from the domain of startups. &nbsp;

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Modi said that India has more than 60,000 startups with 42 unicorns. He also shared the steps taken by the government to free entrepreneurs and innovation from bureaucratic silos. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/general-bipin-rawat-copter-crash-what-is-controlled-flight-into-terrain-444914" hreflang="en">General Bipin Rawat copter crash: What is Controlled Flight into Terrain?</a>

The government has been focusing on three aspects to strengthen innovation, entrepreneurship and startup ecosystem - "Freeing entrepreneurship, innovation from government and bureaucratic silos; setting up institutional mechanisms to promote innovation, and handholding of youth innovators," the Indian leader said. &nbsp;

"India's ranking on the Global Innovation Index is improving because of the programme on innovation started in the country. India was ranked 81 in 2015 and now it is at No. 46," the PM said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In an interaction with startups, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday called for innovating 'for India and from India' to scale new milestones. The interaction was held as a part of Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav.

In an interaction with startups, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday called for innovating 'for India and from India' to scale new milestones. The interaction was held as a part of Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav. Modi interacted with over 150 startups via video conferencing under "Celebrating Innovation Ecosystem" section of the event. Also Read: PM Narendra Modi, President Ram Nath Kovind laud Indian Army's contributions towards national safety "Our startups are changing the rules of the game. I believe that startups are going to be the backbone of New India. Let us innovate for India, innovate from India," the PM said, while interacting with the youngsters from the domain of startups. Modi said that India has more than 60,000 startups with 42 unicorns. He also shared the steps taken by the government to free entrepreneurs and innovation from bureaucratic silos. Also Read: General Bipin Rawat copter crash: What is Controlled Flight into Terrain? The government has been focusing on three aspects to strengthen innovation, entrepreneurship and startup ecosystem - "Freeing entrepreneurship, innovation from government and bureaucratic silos; setting up institutional mechanisms to promote innovation, and handholding of youth innovators," the Indian leader said. "India's ranking on the Global Innovation Index is improving because of the programme on innovation started in the country. India was ranked 81 in 2015 and now it is at No. 46," the PM said. (With inputs from agencies)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi interacts with startups, calls for innovating 'for India, from India'  

India is currently witnessing a record surge in COVID-19 infections fueled by the fast-spreading omicron variant. With an upward move in cases every day, the country is under the grip of an aggressive third wave.

India reports 268,833 new COVID-19 cases amid a surge due to the Omicron variant

India reports 264,202 new COVID-19 cases amid a surge due to the Omicron variant

The Philippines on Friday accepted India's proposal to supply the BrahMos anti-ship missile system for its navy.

The two governments had earlier signed an “implementing agreement” for the procurement of the BrahMos missile. The deal is worth 374.9 million.

The Philippines is looking to boost its defence capability as it views China as a major adversary in the South China Sea row.&nbsp;

India had recently launched the naval variant of the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile from INS Visakhapatnam. The missile can fly at 2.8 Mach speed which is almost three times the speed of sound.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-fires-naval-variant-of-brahmos-supersonic-cruise-missile-key-features-444017">Also Read |&nbsp;India fires naval variant of BrahMos supersonic cruise missile: Key features</a>

The missile has been deployed in key areas across the country. The sea variant of the latest BrahMos missile has a range of 350 to 400 km.

Watch:&nbsp;Vietnam, Philippines eye India's BrahMos missile

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Reports claim&nbsp;the Indian government is also planning to sell the missiles to Vietnam as the country looks to boost its arms export market. India is aiming to target $5 billion in defence exports by 2025.

The BrahMos missile is a supersonic cruise missile capable of being launched from submarines, ships, fighter jets and from land.

The missile has been developed as a joint venture between India's Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Federal State Unitary Enterprise NPO Mashinostroyenia (NPOM) of Russia.

The missile has integrated stealth technology and guidance system with advanced embedded software.

(With inputs from Agencies)&nbsp;

The Philippines on Friday accepted India's proposal to supply the BrahMos anti-ship missile system for its navy. The two governments had earlier signed an “implementing agreement” for the procurement of the BrahMos missile.

The Philippines on Friday accepted India's proposal to supply the BrahMos anti-ship missile system for its navy. The two governments had earlier signed an “implementing agreement” for the procurement of the BrahMos missile. The deal is worth 374.9 million. The Philippines is looking to boost its defence capability as it views China as a major adversary in the South China Sea row. India had recently launched the naval variant of the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile from INS Visakhapatnam. The missile can fly at 2.8 Mach speed which is almost three times the speed of sound. Also Read | India fires naval variant of BrahMos supersonic cruise missile: Key features The missile has been deployed in key areas across the country. The sea variant of the latest BrahMos missile has a range of 350 to 400 km. Watch: Vietnam, Philippines eye India's BrahMos missile Reports claim the Indian government is also planning to sell the missiles to Vietnam as the country looks to boost its arms export market. India is aiming to target $5 billion in defence exports by 2025. The BrahMos missile is a supersonic cruise missile capable of being launched from submarines, ships, fighter jets and from land. The missile has been developed as a joint venture between India's Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Federal State Unitary Enterprise NPO Mashinostroyenia (NPOM) of Russia. The missile has integrated stealth technology and guidance system with advanced embedded software. (With inputs from Agencies)

Philippines to buy India's BrahMos missile

The Indian aviation regulator DGCA has requested that its UAE counterpart disclose the findings of the investigation into the near-collision of two India-bound Emirates passenger jets at Dubai Airport on January 9.

During take-off from the airport, the planes collided on the same runway.

The UAE's General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) has been ordered to share its investigative report on this occurrence by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).&nbsp;

Hundreds of lives were saved:

According to preliminary reports, EK-524, headed for Hyderabad, was preparing to take off without ATC approval.

When the problem occurred, Emirates had already dispatched its Boeing-B777 aircraft to the specified destinations.

The seating capacity of this aircraft varies from 350 to 440 seats, depending on the layout of the aircraft.&nbsp;

Safety is always our top priority, and as with any incident, we are conducting our own internal review. The incident is also under investigation by the UAE AAIS, the Emirates spokesperson said."

DGCA chief Arun Kumar said on Friday: "Both are their registered aircraft and the place of occurrence is their airport and so, as per ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organisation), it will be investigated by them."

However, he asked them to share the investigation report as and when it became available.

According to sources, the Dubai-Hyderabad flight (EK-524) and the Dubai-Bengaluru flight (EK-568) were the two Emirates jets that came dangerously near to colliding on January 9.

They noted that the EK-524 was accelerating to take off just as the EK-568 approached the same runway.

According to the sources, the air traffic controller denied EK-524's takeoff.

According to them, EK-524 was slated to depart at 9.45 p.m., while EK-568 was planned to depart at 9.50 p.m.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Indian aviation regulator DGCA has requested that its UAE counterpart disclose the findings of the investigation into the near-collision of two India-bound Emirates passenger jets at Dubai Airport on January 9.

The Indian aviation regulator DGCA has requested that its UAE counterpart disclose the findings of the investigation into the near-collision of two India-bound Emirates passenger jets at Dubai Airport on January 9. During take-off from the airport, the planes collided on the same runway. The UAE's General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) has been ordered to share its investigative report on this occurrence by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). Hundreds of lives were saved: According to preliminary reports, EK-524, headed for Hyderabad, was preparing to take off without ATC approval. When the problem occurred, Emirates had already dispatched its Boeing-B777 aircraft to the specified destinations. The seating capacity of this aircraft varies from 350 to 440 seats, depending on the layout of the aircraft. Safety is always our top priority, and as with any incident, we are conducting our own internal review. The incident is also under investigation by the UAE AAIS, the Emirates spokesperson said." DGCA chief Arun Kumar said on Friday: "Both are their registered aircraft and the place of occurrence is their airport and so, as per ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organisation), it will be investigated by them." However, he asked them to share the investigation report as and when it became available. According to sources, the Dubai-Hyderabad flight (EK-524) and the Dubai-Bengaluru flight (EK-568) were the two Emirates jets that came dangerously near to colliding on January 9. They noted that the EK-524 was accelerating to take off just as the EK-568 approached the same runway. According to the sources, the air traffic controller denied EK-524's takeoff. According to them, EK-524 was slated to depart at 9.45 p.m., while EK-568 was planned to depart at 9.50 p.m. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Dangerous collision’ of two India-bound flights averted in Dubai

When 12 coaches of the Bikaner-Guwahati Express (15633) derailed in Indian Eastern State of West Bengal's Jalpaiguri district, at least six&nbsp;people were killed and more than 40 others were injured.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi received information about the disaster from Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee during a meeting with chief ministers over the COVID-19 situation.

When the disaster occurred near Mainaguri in Jalpaiguri at about 5.15 p.m. on Thursday, the train was travelling from Bikaner in Rajasthan to Guwahati in Assam via Patna.

The Bikaner Express was going through Jalpaiguri at the time of the event, and Mainaguri was not one of the train's 34 stops.&nbsp;

A total of 1,200 people boarded the train, with 177 passengers boarding from Bikaner and 98 passengers boarding from Patna Junction.&nbsp;

In a tweet, PM Modi said: "Spoke to Railways Minister Shri @AshwiniVaishnaw and took stock of the situation in the wake of the train accident in West Bengal. My thoughts are with the bereaved families. May the injured recover quickly."

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Spoke to Railways Minister Shri <a href="https://twitter.com/AshwiniVaishnaw?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AshwiniVaishnaw</a> and took stock of the situation in the wake of the train accident in West Bengal. My thoughts are with the bereaved families. May the injured recover quickly.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1481633401304195077?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 13, 2022</a></blockquote>
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"In an unfortunate accident, 12 coaches of Bikaner-Guwahati Exp. derailed near New Maynaguri (West Bengal) this evening. Personally monitoring the situation for swift rescue operations," Union Minister for Railways Ashwini Vaishnaw who will visit the accident site on Friday tweeted. Vaishnaw also briefed the Prime Minister on the situation.

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Enhanced amount of ex-gratia compensation to the victims of this unfortunate accident: 
Rs. 5 Lakh in case of death, 
Rs. 1 Lakh towards grievous and 
Rs. 25,000 for minor injuries.
— Ashwini Vaishnaw (@AshwiniVaishnaw) <a href="https://twitter.com/AshwiniVaishnaw/status/1481632699886747653?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 13, 2022</a></blockquote>
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The railway officials have declared that the relatives of those died&nbsp;will receive Rs 5,00,000 in compensation, Rs 1,00000 for the critically injured, and Rs 25000 for the less seriously injured.

According to railway authorities, the cause of the accident is yet unknown, although there was no problem with the signal, and the derailment is suspected to have occurred due to a track fault.

(With inputs from agencies)

When 12 coaches of the Bikaner-Guwahati Express (15633) derailed in Indian Eastern State of West Bengal's Jalpaiguri district, at least six people were killed and more than 40 others were injured.

When 12 coaches of the Bikaner-Guwahati Express (15633) derailed in Indian Eastern State of West Bengal's Jalpaiguri district, at least six people were killed and more than 40 others were injured. Prime Minister Narendra Modi received information about the disaster from Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee during a meeting with chief ministers over the COVID-19 situation. When the disaster occurred near Mainaguri in Jalpaiguri at about 5.15 p.m. on Thursday, the train was travelling from Bikaner in Rajasthan to Guwahati in Assam via Patna. The Bikaner Express was going through Jalpaiguri at the time of the event, and Mainaguri was not one of the train's 34 stops. A total of 1,200 people boarded the train, with 177 passengers boarding from Bikaner and 98 passengers boarding from Patna Junction. In a tweet, PM Modi said: "Spoke to Railways Minister Shri @AshwiniVaishnaw and took stock of the situation in the wake of the train accident in West Bengal. My thoughts are with the bereaved families. May the injured recover quickly." Spoke to Railways Minister Shri @AshwiniVaishnaw and took stock of the situation in the wake of the train accident in West Bengal. My thoughts are with the bereaved families. May the injured recover quickly. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 13, 2022 × "In an unfortunate accident, 12 coaches of Bikaner-Guwahati Exp. derailed near New Maynaguri (West Bengal) this evening. Personally monitoring the situation for swift rescue operations," Union Minister for Railways Ashwini Vaishnaw who will visit the accident site on Friday tweeted. Vaishnaw also briefed the Prime Minister on the situation. Enhanced amount of ex-gratia compensation to the victims of this unfortunate accident: Rs. 5 Lakh in case of death, Rs. 1 Lakh towards grievous and Rs. 25,000 for minor injuries. — Ashwini Vaishnaw (@AshwiniVaishnaw) January 13, 2022 × The railway officials have declared that the relatives of those died will receive Rs 5,00,000 in compensation, Rs 1,00000 for the critically injured, and Rs 25000 for the less seriously injured. According to railway authorities, the cause of the accident is yet unknown, although there was no problem with the signal, and the derailment is suspected to have occurred due to a track fault. (With inputs from agencies)

Six killed and many injured in a train accident in India

India reported 2,64,202 coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours with the number of active cases reaching 12,72,073.

The number of coronavirus cases is 6.7 per cent higher than Thursday, the health ministry said. India had reported 2,47,417 COVID-19 cases on Thursday which was an increase of 27 per cent from the previous day.&nbsp;

The number of deaths rose to 315 in the last 24 hours taking the total death toll to 4,85,350.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-a-first-sewage-samples-test-positive-for-covid-in-indian-city-444539">Also Read:&nbsp;In a first, sewage samples test positive for Covid in Indian city</a>

The health ministry informed that there were 1,09,345 recoveries even as the number of Omicron cases rose to 5,753.

India's southern state of Kerala reported 13,468 coronavirus cases in 24 hours with 21 deaths as the country continues to battle against the virus. Another southern state Tamil Nadu recorded over 20,000 COVID-19 cases and 25 deaths along with over 1,03,000 active cases.

India's western state of Maharashtra which is the hardest hit&nbsp;due to the virus reported 46,406 new COVID-19 cases on Thursday along with 36 deaths. The state health department said there were 34,658 recoveries with no new Omircon cases detected.

India capital Delhi continued to reel against the virus reporting 28,867 new COVID-19 cases and 31 deaths on Thursday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-kashmir-witnesses-sharp-rise-in-covid-cases-23-omicron-infections-so-far-444395">Also Read:&nbsp;Jammu Kashmir witnesses sharp rise in Covid cases</a>

The positivity rate in India's capital stands at over 29 per cent, the health department said with over 94,000 active cases.

Karnataka on Thursday reported over 25,000 COVID-19 cases with eight deaths in 24 hours with over 1,15,000 active cases in the state.&nbsp;

(With inputs from Agencies)

India reported 2,64,202 coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours with the number of active cases reaching 12,72,073. The number of coronavirus cases is 6.7 per cent higher than Thursday, the health ministry said.

India reported 2,64,202 coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours with the number of active cases reaching 12,72,073. The number of coronavirus cases is 6.7 per cent higher than Thursday, the health ministry said. India had reported 2,47,417 COVID-19 cases on Thursday which was an increase of 27 per cent from the previous day. The number of deaths rose to 315 in the last 24 hours taking the total death toll to 4,85,350. Also Read: In a first, sewage samples test positive for Covid in Indian city The health ministry informed that there were 1,09,345 recoveries even as the number of Omicron cases rose to 5,753. India's southern state of Kerala reported 13,468 coronavirus cases in 24 hours with 21 deaths as the country continues to battle against the virus. Another southern state Tamil Nadu recorded over 20,000 COVID-19 cases and 25 deaths along with over 1,03,000 active cases. India's western state of Maharashtra which is the hardest hit due to the virus reported 46,406 new COVID-19 cases on Thursday along with 36 deaths. The state health department said there were 34,658 recoveries with no new Omircon cases detected. India capital Delhi continued to reel against the virus reporting 28,867 new COVID-19 cases and 31 deaths on Thursday. Also Read: Jammu Kashmir witnesses sharp rise in Covid cases The positivity rate in India's capital stands at over 29 per cent, the health department said with over 94,000 active cases. Karnataka on Thursday reported over 25,000 COVID-19 cases with eight deaths in 24 hours with over 1,15,000 active cases in the state. (With inputs from Agencies)

India reports over 6% increase in COVID-19 cases; 315 deaths in 24 hours

Due to the lengthy standoff between the forces in eastern Ladakh, 2021 was a year in which India-China relations reached a new low.&nbsp;

Regardless of the disputes and military standoffs,&nbsp;bilateral trade between India and China reached a new high of over $125 billion in 2021, surpassing the $100 billion mark in a year, while India's trade deficit grew to over $69 billion.&nbsp;

If reports are to believed bilateral trade between India and China was valued at $125.66 billion in 2021, up 43.3 percent from $87.6 billion in 2020.

According to statistics provided by the General Administration of Customs (GAC) and quoted by the tabloid Global Times on Friday, China's exports to India in 2021 were $97.52 billion, up 46.2 percent, while China received $28.14 billion worth of commodities from India, up 34.2 percent.

The trade disparity between the two countries remained $69 billion in China's favour. 
 
Watch | India &amp; China are holding the 14th round of commander-level talks amid a standoff along the LAC

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For more than a decade, India has expressed its alarm over China's rising trade deficit, urging Beijing to open its markets to Indian IT and pharmaceutical companies.

Due to the enormous second wave of COVID-19 and repeated bouts of the virus in India, observers say much of China's growth in exports to India this year can be ascribed to the import of medical supplies and raw materials for India's booming pharmaceutical industry.

The historic growth in bilateral trade, which surpassed USD 100 billion, went unnoticed as ties remained tense due to the protracted military standoff in eastern Ladakh.&nbsp; 
 
Watch | Indian sailors remain in Chinese waters, India asks China for a crew change

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The border standoff between India's and China's armies began on May 5 last year after a violent confrontation in the Pangong lake areas, and both sides have gradually increased their deployment by pouring in tens of thousands of soldiers and heavy weaponry.

The two parties concluded the disengagement process in the Gogra area in August and the north and south banks of the Pangong lake in February as a result of a series of military and diplomatic talks.

On January 12, the two sides met for the 14th round of Corps Commander-level discussions to end the standoff in the remaining territories, and they promised to meet again shortly.&nbsp;

Each side currently has around 50,000 to 60,000 troops along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in the mountainous sector.

(With inputs from agencies)

Due to the lengthy standoff between the forces in eastern Ladakh, 2021 was a year in which India-China relations reached a new low. Regardless of the disputes and military standoffs, bilateral trade between India and China reached a new high of over $125 billion in 2021, surpassing the $100 billion mark in a year, while India's trade deficit grew to over $69 billion.

Due to the lengthy standoff between the forces in eastern Ladakh, 2021 was a year in which India-China relations reached a new low. Regardless of the disputes and military standoffs, bilateral trade between India and China reached a new high of over $125 billion in 2021, surpassing the $100 billion mark in a year, while India's trade deficit grew to over $69 billion. If reports are to believed bilateral trade between India and China was valued at $125.66 billion in 2021, up 43.3 percent from $87.6 billion in 2020. According to statistics provided by the General Administration of Customs (GAC) and quoted by the tabloid Global Times on Friday, China's exports to India in 2021 were $97.52 billion, up 46.2 percent, while China received $28.14 billion worth of commodities from India, up 34.2 percent. The trade disparity between the two countries remained $69 billion in China's favour. Watch | India & China are holding the 14th round of commander-level talks amid a standoff along the LAC For more than a decade, India has expressed its alarm over China's rising trade deficit, urging Beijing to open its markets to Indian IT and pharmaceutical companies. Due to the enormous second wave of COVID-19 and repeated bouts of the virus in India, observers say much of China's growth in exports to India this year can be ascribed to the import of medical supplies and raw materials for India's booming pharmaceutical industry. The historic growth in bilateral trade, which surpassed USD 100 billion, went unnoticed as ties remained tense due to the protracted military standoff in eastern Ladakh. Watch | Indian sailors remain in Chinese waters, India asks China for a crew change The border standoff between India's and China's armies began on May 5 last year after a violent confrontation in the Pangong lake areas, and both sides have gradually increased their deployment by pouring in tens of thousands of soldiers and heavy weaponry. The two parties concluded the disengagement process in the Gogra area in August and the north and south banks of the Pangong lake in February as a result of a series of military and diplomatic talks. On January 12, the two sides met for the 14th round of Corps Commander-level discussions to end the standoff in the remaining territories, and they promised to meet again shortly. Each side currently has around 50,000 to 60,000 troops along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in the mountainous sector. (With inputs from agencies)

Despite border tensions, boycotts and bans, India-China trade grew to record $125 billion in 2021

The tri-services committee that was probing the fatal helicopter crash which killed India’s top military chief General Bipin Rawat and his wife, apart from 11 other military personnel, has ruled out sabotage or technical failure as the cause of the accident.

The probe committee, which was led by&nbsp;Air Marshal Manvendra Singh,&nbsp;said that the crash was caused “due to unexpected change in weather that led to the disorientation of the pilot”.

“Tri-Services Court of Inquiry into the Mi-17 V5 accident on 08 Dec 21 (which killed CDS Rawat and others) in its preliminary findings analysed Flight Data Recorder and Cockpit Voice Recorder; has ruled out mechanical failure, sabotage or negligence as a cause of the accident,” the IAF said in a statement.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bipin-rawat-his-wife-among-13-killed-in-helicopter-crash-435156">Bipin Rawat, his wife among 13 killed in helicopter crash</a>

“Accident was a result of entry into clouds due to unexpected change in weather... This led to spatial disorientation of the pilot resulting in controlled flight into terrain (CFIT),” it added.

Based on its findings, the Court of Inquiry has made certain recommendations which are being reviewed, the IAF said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/gen-bipin-rawat-biography-indias-first-chief-of-defence-staff-led-a-life-dedicated-to-the-nation-435166">Gen Bipin Rawat biography: India's first Chief of Defence Staff led a life dedicated to the nation</a>

CFIT occurs when an airworthy aircraft under the complete control of the pilot is inadvertently flown into terrain, water, or any other obstacle.

The pilots are generally unaware of the danger until it is too late.

On December 8 around noon, a Russian-built Mi-17V5 copter carrying Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) Rawat, his wife Madhulika and his military attache, Brig LS Lidder among others crashed near Wellington area in Conoor hill station, Tamil Nadu state.

The tri-services committee that was probing the fatal helicopter crash which killed India’s top military chief General Bipin Rawat and his wife, apart from 11 other military personnel, has ruled out sabotage or technical failure as the cause of the accident.

The tri-services committee that was probing the fatal helicopter crash which killed India’s top military chief General Bipin Rawat and his wife, apart from 11 other military personnel, has ruled out sabotage or technical failure as the cause of the accident. The probe committee, which was led by Air Marshal Manvendra Singh, said that the crash was caused “due to unexpected change in weather that led to the disorientation of the pilot”. “Tri-Services Court of Inquiry into the Mi-17 V5 accident on 08 Dec 21 (which killed CDS Rawat and others) in its preliminary findings analysed Flight Data Recorder and Cockpit Voice Recorder; has ruled out mechanical failure, sabotage or negligence as a cause of the accident,” the IAF said in a statement. Also read | Bipin Rawat, his wife among 13 killed in helicopter crash “Accident was a result of entry into clouds due to unexpected change in weather... This led to spatial disorientation of the pilot resulting in controlled flight into terrain (CFIT),” it added. Based on its findings, the Court of Inquiry has made certain recommendations which are being reviewed, the IAF said. Also read | Gen Bipin Rawat biography: India's first Chief of Defence Staff led a life dedicated to the nation CFIT occurs when an airworthy aircraft under the complete control of the pilot is inadvertently flown into terrain, water, or any other obstacle. The pilots are generally unaware of the danger until it is too late. On December 8 around noon, a Russian-built Mi-17V5 copter carrying Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) Rawat, his wife Madhulika and his military attache, Brig LS Lidder among others crashed near Wellington area in Conoor hill station, Tamil Nadu state.

Gen Rawat copter crash: Probe committee rules out foul play, says weather change disoriented pilot

For the first time in India, a village is all set to become sanitary napkin-free. The development comes as a part of an ongoing campaign in Kumbalangi in Ernakulam, Kerala.

Kerala governor Arif Mohammad Khan has declared the village as napkin-free.&nbsp;The step is being taken&nbsp;to ensure access to menstrual hygiene for adolescent girls and young women

As a part of the campaign, menstrual cups will be distributed to women aged 18 and above. Approximately 5,000 menstrual cups will be distributed.&nbsp;

Hibi Eden, the member of Lok Sabha after a tie-up with HLL management academy’s ‘Thingal’ scheme and Indian oil corporation said that the &nbsp;initiative is titled "Avalkayi," which means "for her."&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/40-years-and-counting-in-service-of-india-thank-you-dr-k-sivan-444740">Also read |&nbsp;40 years and counting.. in service of India, thank you Dr K. Sivan</a>

The Governor has also declared the village as India’s first model tourism village. This project is implemented through Pradhan Mantri Sansad Adarsh Gram Yojana (SAGY). The village will also have a new tourist information centre.&nbsp;

Earlier, Indian state&nbsp;Andhra Pradesh's government launched a program under which branded sanitary napkins will be provided free of cost to girl students of government educational institutions.&nbsp;

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy&nbsp; launched the 'Swechha'&nbsp;program to tackle the stigma attached to menstruation and prioritise female personal hygiene, and encourage a healthy dialogue of information.

(With inputs from agencies)

For the first time in India, a village is all set to become sanitary napkin-free. The development comes as a part of an ongoing campaign in Kumbalangi in Ernakulam, Kerala.

For the first time in India, a village is all set to become sanitary napkin-free. The development comes as a part of an ongoing campaign in Kumbalangi in Ernakulam, Kerala. Kerala governor Arif Mohammad Khan has declared the village as napkin-free. The step is being taken to ensure access to menstrual hygiene for adolescent girls and young women As a part of the campaign, menstrual cups will be distributed to women aged 18 and above. Approximately 5,000 menstrual cups will be distributed. Hibi Eden, the member of Lok Sabha after a tie-up with HLL management academy’s ‘Thingal’ scheme and Indian oil corporation said that the initiative is titled "Avalkayi," which means "for her." Also read | 40 years and counting.. in service of India, thank you Dr K. Sivan The Governor has also declared the village as India’s first model tourism village. This project is implemented through Pradhan Mantri Sansad Adarsh Gram Yojana (SAGY). The village will also have a new tourist information centre. Earlier, Indian state Andhra Pradesh's government launched a program under which branded sanitary napkins will be provided free of cost to girl students of government educational institutions. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy launched the 'Swechha' program to tackle the stigma attached to menstruation and prioritise female personal hygiene, and encourage a healthy dialogue of information. (With inputs from agencies)

To ensure menstrual hygiene, this Indian village is the first to become sanitary napkin-free

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has said that Moscow values its relationship with Delhi highly and will continue to develop ties.

In response to a WION question during his press conference, Lavrov said, "We value our relationship highly. It is no coincidence that it is a special privilege strategic partnership, and we are going to keep developing and advancing that partnership."

Russian President Putin visited India last month for the annual India-Russia summit. That month also saw the first ever meeting of India's and Russia's defence and foreign ministers, which will be rotated between the two countries.

The Russian foreign minister said President Putin had "very useful negotiations" in Delhi and that both "the President and the Prime Minister (Modi) managed to spend several hours talking and that was a very useful exchange." 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-will-take-measures-to-eliminate-threats-if-us-ignores-security-proposals-minister-lavrov-441473">Also read | Russia will take measures to eliminate threats if US ignores security proposals: Minister Lavrov</a> 
 
The main pillars of the two countries' partnership are defence and space.The BrahMos Missile System, as well as the licenced production in India of SU-30 aircraft and T-90 tanks, are examples of such flagship cooperation in the defence sector.

In space cooperation, Russia&nbsp;trained four Indian cosmonauts who will be part of the Gaganyaan mission, India's first manned space mission.

In response to the RIC summit, or Russia, India, and China summit, FM Lavrov referred to the RIC grouping as an&nbsp;"important structure", pointing out that foreign ministers have met "some 20 times since the creation of the RIC." He highlighted that there are "sectoral meetings between ministers, their deputies, and experts on trade, economic, and humanitarian cooperation."

Last year, the foreign ministers of RIC countries met virtually.&nbsp;Leaders of the RIC countries have met on the sidelines of the G20 summit. The last leaders' level meeting at the level of PM Modi, President Xi, and Putin took place on the sidelines of the Osaka G20 summit. But Chinese aggressive action on the line of actual control with India might make the holding of such meetings difficult.

The Russian Foreign minister said, "We see that our Indian and Chinese friends are interested in keeping this format going forward and in developing this format going forward," pointing out that, "I know India and China have a direct dialogue on many issues, including security issues." I know there is a declaration of strategic partnership between India and China, but if "RIC may be useful for strengthening trust and confidence building, this is something we are going to support."

Russian Presidential Aide Yury Ushakov is hopeful for the summit and was the first to talk about the meeting happening this year. For Russia, both India and China have been close allies.&nbsp;

As Lavrov said, "apart from the political significance of this RIC format, the 3 countries are part of a single geographical space, RIC format also deals with economic formats of cooperation which are promising." Russia, China, India are part of the SCO, BRICS groupings.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has said that Moscow values its relationship with Delhi highly and will continue to develop ties. In response to a WION question during his press conference, Lavrov said, "We value our relationship highly.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has said that Moscow values its relationship with Delhi highly and will continue to develop ties. In response to a WION question during his press conference, Lavrov said, "We value our relationship highly. It is no coincidence that it is a special privilege strategic partnership, and we are going to keep developing and advancing that partnership." Russian President Putin visited India last month for the annual India-Russia summit. That month also saw the first ever meeting of India's and Russia's defence and foreign ministers, which will be rotated between the two countries. The Russian foreign minister said President Putin had "very useful negotiations" in Delhi and that both "the President and the Prime Minister (Modi) managed to spend several hours talking and that was a very useful exchange." Also read | Russia will take measures to eliminate threats if US ignores security proposals: Minister Lavrov The main pillars of the two countries' partnership are defence and space.The BrahMos Missile System, as well as the licenced production in India of SU-30 aircraft and T-90 tanks, are examples of such flagship cooperation in the defence sector. In space cooperation, Russia trained four Indian cosmonauts who will be part of the Gaganyaan mission, India's first manned space mission. In response to the RIC summit, or Russia, India, and China summit, FM Lavrov referred to the RIC grouping as an "important structure", pointing out that foreign ministers have met "some 20 times since the creation of the RIC." He highlighted that there are "sectoral meetings between ministers, their deputies, and experts on trade, economic, and humanitarian cooperation." Last year, the foreign ministers of RIC countries met virtually. Leaders of the RIC countries have met on the sidelines of the G20 summit. The last leaders' level meeting at the level of PM Modi, President Xi, and Putin took place on the sidelines of the Osaka G20 summit. But Chinese aggressive action on the line of actual control with India might make the holding of such meetings difficult. The Russian Foreign minister said, "We see that our Indian and Chinese friends are interested in keeping this format going forward and in developing this format going forward," pointing out that, "I know India and China have a direct dialogue on many issues, including security issues." I know there is a declaration of strategic partnership between India and China, but if "RIC may be useful for strengthening trust and confidence building, this is something we are going to support." Russian Presidential Aide Yury Ushakov is hopeful for the summit and was the first to talk about the meeting happening this year. For Russia, both India and China have been close allies. As Lavrov said, "apart from the political significance of this RIC format, the 3 countries are part of a single geographical space, RIC format also deals with economic formats of cooperation which are promising." Russia, China, India are part of the SCO, BRICS groupings.

We value our relationship with India highly: Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov to WION

A journey that began in 1982 with the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) has come to an end on 14th January 2022.&nbsp; 
Dr Kailasavadivoo Sivan, who joined the state-run space agency as a young engineer fresh out of college, is stepping down as Chairman, ISRO and Secretary, Department of Space, after 40 years of service, with many feathers in his cap.&nbsp;

Some of them include the then (February 2017) record launch of 104 small satellites from a PSLV rocket, development of SITARA, a 6-dimensional trajectory simulation software that is applicable for all of ISRO’s rockets.&nbsp;

Notably, in more than 50 years of ISRO’s operations, it was during his tenure (in late 2018) that ISRO managed to perform three successful rocket launch missions (GSLV Mk3, PSLV and GSLV) within a short span of 35 days. This is considered significant given how ISRO’s launch calendar generally accommodates only a single launch per month.&nbsp;

Hailing from Sarakkalvilai Village in India’s Southernmost district, Kanyakumari, Dr Sivan hails from a very modest family that was dependent solely on their father’s agricultural income.&nbsp;

During his education at a nearby government school in Tamil medium and while pursuing his college education, he worked on their family’s agricultural land to support the family.&nbsp;

He has described having spent his childhood without footwear. &nbsp;It was only after getting into his post-graduation that he wore a pant for the first time in his life. Till then, he had been wearing a ‘Dhoti’.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/from-liquid-oxygen-to-o2-concentrators-heres-how-isro-is-aiding-indias-covid-19-battle-384558">Also read |&nbsp;From liquid oxygen to O2 concentrators, here’s how ISRO is aiding India’s COVID-19 battle</a>

Three of Sivan’s siblings couldn’t complete their higher education, owing to the family’s financial situation. However, having completed his B.Sc Mathematics with a 100% score, Sivan alone was allowed to pursue his higher studies, first at the Madras Institute of Technology (Aeronautical engineering) and later a Master’s in Engineering from the Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru.&nbsp;

He began his career with ISRO right after having completed his Master’s.

According to ISRO’s website, Dr Sivan had served as Project Director, GSLV (India’s heavy-lift rocket series), and had led the team that revisited the entire design in the rocket’s post-failure scenario, during the early days.&nbsp;

Besides the resolution of design issues and making GSLV operational, he had also been involved in the flight testing of indigenous cryogenic engines and stages.

He was also instrumental in the successful accomplishment of the first development flight of GSLV Mk-III, India’s heaviest payload-carrying rocket.&nbsp;

Flight testing of the SCRAMJET engine and the technology demonstration of the re-usable launch vehicle (RLV-TD) is also to his credit.&nbsp;

Chandrayaan-2, a highly-anticipated Lunar exploration mission was also launched successfully and inserted into Lunar orbit, during his tenure. Months ahead of the high-profile launch, he had exclusively revealed the launch date and mission objectives, in conservation with WION, while at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, India’s spaceport.&nbsp;

On the day of launch, the mission had to be called off, just an hour ahead of lift-off time, owing to a leak in the Cryogenic stage (the uppermost stage) of the GSLV Mk 3 rocket.&nbsp;

After a couple of days of identifying and rectifying the issue, the mission was launched successfully on July 22nd 2019, one week after the original date.&nbsp;

However, it was what Dr Sivan himself had earlier described as “seven minutes of terror”(the Lunar landing process), that proved to be an insurmountable challenge of the mission.&nbsp;

The Vikram lander which was supposed to land on the Lunar South Pole had gone incommunicado and off the planned path, just minutes ahead of the scheduled landing, following which it was learnt to have crashed.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/exclusive-young-scientists-at-isros-vssc-develop-ventilators-oxygen-concentrators-385016">Also read |&nbsp;Exclusive: Young scientists at ISRO’s VSSC develop ventilators, oxygen concentrators</a>

All of India stood in solidarity and shared the grief with an emotional and teary-eyed ISRO Chairman, in the aftermath of the crash landing.&nbsp;

With more ambitious targets to meet, ISRO continued to work on the prestigious Human-Spaceflight mission(Gaganyaan), a third Lunar mission Chandrayaan-3, Aditya L1 (a probe to study the Corona of the sun), NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture radar, XpoSat(X-Ray Polarimetry Satellite) among other routine missions.&nbsp;

With the pandemic having struck in early 2020 and later in 2021, ISRO’s launch activities had slowed down. Lockdown-induced travel restrictions, logistical issues and supply issues from various industries (that were shut during the pandemic) are among the reasons said to have setback the launch calendar.&nbsp;

Even amid the pandemic, ISRO continued to function in hybrid mode and carried out the design, software development, documentation and several other tasks that could be accomplished remotely.

Helping the country in its fight against COVID-19, ISRO had also provided its cryogenic oxidizer (high-purity Liquid oxygen) to various states, to meet the rising demand for medical-grade oxygen.&nbsp;

ISRO had also developed low-cost ventilators and oxygen concentrators, thereby offering them to the Indian industry to meet the requirements indigenously by promoting local manufacture of these devices.

In August 2020, India’s Department of Space, which Sivan headed as secretary, rolled out reforms that enabled private participation in the space sector that has been a state monopoly.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/who-is-s-somanath-heres-all-you-need-to-know-about-newly-appointed-isro-chairman-444197">Also read |&nbsp;Who is S Somanath? Here’s all you need to know about newly appointed ISRO Chairman</a>

This meant that private industry and start-ups would be enabled to perform space activities such as rocket-building, satellite-building, owning, operating spacecraft and providing space and ground-based services.&nbsp;

Given that these activities are capital intensive and technologically not-so-easy to access, ISRO would be enabling start-ups to use their own facilities to perform various processes and functions, besides offering mentoring support, that would help the fledgling firms get closer to their orbital launch aspirations.&nbsp;

Dr Sivan had a detailed conversation with WION on the Space sector reforms.&nbsp;

2021 witnessed two ISRO launch missions - a PSLV and a GSLV Mk2, of which the latter ended up unsuccessful, owing to the final (Cryogenic) stage not igniting as planned.&nbsp;

As Chairman, Dr Sivan has also made announcements regarding how India was working with more than six countries to send Indian astronauts to space.&nbsp;

“Indian astronauts have completed their training at the Gagarin Cosmonaut training Center in Russia, we are working with French space agency CNES in the field of Space medicine, with Canada and Romania for wind-tunnel testing, Australia (ASA) and European Space Agency for ground station support” he said.&nbsp;

He also elaborated on how ISRO had initiated 46 technological endeavours such as Quantum communication, space-debris mitigation technologies like self-eating rockets, self-vanishing satellites and robotic arms to catch space debris.&nbsp;

In his New Year message for 2022, Dr Sivan had mentioned about three new space science missions -DISHA, a twin aeronomy satellite mission, a Venus mission and an ISRO-CNES joint science mission TRISHNA. Regarding the targets for the year, he outlined the launch of EOS-4 and EOS-6 satellites onboard PSLV.&nbsp;

Launch of EOS02 satellite onboard maiden flight of SSLV rocket, besides many test flights for Crew escape system of Gaganyaan and launch of the first unmanned mission of Gaganyaan.&nbsp;

He also mentioned that Chandrayaan-03, Aditya Ll, XpoSat, IRNSS and technology demonstration missions with advanced, indigenously developed technologies on-board.&nbsp;

Dr Sivan was appointed Chairman, ISRO and Secretary, Department of space in early 2018 and his tenure was due to end in January 2021.&nbsp;

In December 2020, the government of India had extended his tenure until January 14, 2022.

While his journey at ISRO has come to an end, the humble farmer’s son-turned-scientist and technocrat would continue to inspire the country, its aerospace aspirants via the upcoming missions he chooses to undertake. Thank you Dr K. Sivan!

A journey that began in 1982 with the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) has come to an end on 14th January 2022. Dr Kailasavadivoo Sivan, who joined the state-run space agency as a young engineer fresh out of college, is stepping down as Chairman, ISRO and Secretary, Department of Space, after 40 years of service, with many feathers in his cap.

A journey that began in 1982 with the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) has come to an end on 14th January 2022. Dr Kailasavadivoo Sivan, who joined the state-run space agency as a young engineer fresh out of college, is stepping down as Chairman, ISRO and Secretary, Department of Space, after 40 years of service, with many feathers in his cap. Some of them include the then (February 2017) record launch of 104 small satellites from a PSLV rocket, development of SITARA, a 6-dimensional trajectory simulation software that is applicable for all of ISRO’s rockets. Notably, in more than 50 years of ISRO’s operations, it was during his tenure (in late 2018) that ISRO managed to perform three successful rocket launch missions (GSLV Mk3, PSLV and GSLV) within a short span of 35 days. This is considered significant given how ISRO’s launch calendar generally accommodates only a single launch per month. Hailing from Sarakkalvilai Village in India’s Southernmost district, Kanyakumari, Dr Sivan hails from a very modest family that was dependent solely on their father’s agricultural income. During his education at a nearby government school in Tamil medium and while pursuing his college education, he worked on their family’s agricultural land to support the family. He has described having spent his childhood without footwear. It was only after getting into his post-graduation that he wore a pant for the first time in his life. Till then, he had been wearing a ‘Dhoti’. Also read | From liquid oxygen to O2 concentrators, here’s how ISRO is aiding India’s COVID-19 battle Three of Sivan’s siblings couldn’t complete their higher education, owing to the family’s financial situation. However, having completed his B.Sc Mathematics with a 100% score, Sivan alone was allowed to pursue his higher studies, first at the Madras Institute of Technology (Aeronautical engineering) and later a Master’s in Engineering from the Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru. He began his career with ISRO right after having completed his Master’s. According to ISRO’s website, Dr Sivan had served as Project Director, GSLV (India’s heavy-lift rocket series), and had led the team that revisited the entire design in the rocket’s post-failure scenario, during the early days. Besides the resolution of design issues and making GSLV operational, he had also been involved in the flight testing of indigenous cryogenic engines and stages. He was also instrumental in the successful accomplishment of the first development flight of GSLV Mk-III, India’s heaviest payload-carrying rocket. Flight testing of the SCRAMJET engine and the technology demonstration of the re-usable launch vehicle (RLV-TD) is also to his credit. Chandrayaan-2, a highly-anticipated Lunar exploration mission was also launched successfully and inserted into Lunar orbit, during his tenure. Months ahead of the high-profile launch, he had exclusively revealed the launch date and mission objectives, in conservation with WION, while at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, India’s spaceport. On the day of launch, the mission had to be called off, just an hour ahead of lift-off time, owing to a leak in the Cryogenic stage (the uppermost stage) of the GSLV Mk 3 rocket. After a couple of days of identifying and rectifying the issue, the mission was launched successfully on July 22nd 2019, one week after the original date. However, it was what Dr Sivan himself had earlier described as “seven minutes of terror”(the Lunar landing process), that proved to be an insurmountable challenge of the mission. The Vikram lander which was supposed to land on the Lunar South Pole had gone incommunicado and off the planned path, just minutes ahead of the scheduled landing, following which it was learnt to have crashed. Also read | Exclusive: Young scientists at ISRO’s VSSC develop ventilators, oxygen concentrators All of India stood in solidarity and shared the grief with an emotional and teary-eyed ISRO Chairman, in the aftermath of the crash landing. With more ambitious targets to meet, ISRO continued to work on the prestigious Human-Spaceflight mission(Gaganyaan), a third Lunar mission Chandrayaan-3, Aditya L1 (a probe to study the Corona of the sun), NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture radar, XpoSat(X-Ray Polarimetry Satellite) among other routine missions. With the pandemic having struck in early 2020 and later in 2021, ISRO’s launch activities had slowed down. Lockdown-induced travel restrictions, logistical issues and supply issues from various industries (that were shut during the pandemic) are among the reasons said to have setback the launch calendar. Even amid the pandemic, ISRO continued to function in hybrid mode and carried out the design, software development, documentation and several other tasks that could be accomplished remotely. Helping the country in its fight against COVID-19, ISRO had also provided its cryogenic oxidizer (high-purity Liquid oxygen) to various states, to meet the rising demand for medical-grade oxygen. ISRO had also developed low-cost ventilators and oxygen concentrators, thereby offering them to the Indian industry to meet the requirements indigenously by promoting local manufacture of these devices. In August 2020, India’s Department of Space, which Sivan headed as secretary, rolled out reforms that enabled private participation in the space sector that has been a state monopoly. Also read | Who is S Somanath? Here’s all you need to know about newly appointed ISRO Chairman This meant that private industry and start-ups would be enabled to perform space activities such as rocket-building, satellite-building, owning, operating spacecraft and providing space and ground-based services. Given that these activities are capital intensive and technologically not-so-easy to access, ISRO would be enabling start-ups to use their own facilities to perform various processes and functions, besides offering mentoring support, that would help the fledgling firms get closer to their orbital launch aspirations. Dr Sivan had a detailed conversation with WION on the Space sector reforms. 2021 witnessed two ISRO launch missions - a PSLV and a GSLV Mk2, of which the latter ended up unsuccessful, owing to the final (Cryogenic) stage not igniting as planned. As Chairman, Dr Sivan has also made announcements regarding how India was working with more than six countries to send Indian astronauts to space. “Indian astronauts have completed their training at the Gagarin Cosmonaut training Center in Russia, we are working with French space agency CNES in the field of Space medicine, with Canada and Romania for wind-tunnel testing, Australia (ASA) and European Space Agency for ground station support” he said. He also elaborated on how ISRO had initiated 46 technological endeavours such as Quantum communication, space-debris mitigation technologies like self-eating rockets, self-vanishing satellites and robotic arms to catch space debris. In his New Year message for 2022, Dr Sivan had mentioned about three new space science missions -DISHA, a twin aeronomy satellite mission, a Venus mission and an ISRO-CNES joint science mission TRISHNA. Regarding the targets for the year, he outlined the launch of EOS-4 and EOS-6 satellites onboard PSLV. Launch of EOS02 satellite onboard maiden flight of SSLV rocket, besides many test flights for Crew escape system of Gaganyaan and launch of the first unmanned mission of Gaganyaan. He also mentioned that Chandrayaan-03, Aditya Ll, XpoSat, IRNSS and technology demonstration missions with advanced, indigenously developed technologies on-board. Dr Sivan was appointed Chairman, ISRO and Secretary, Department of space in early 2018 and his tenure was due to end in January 2021. In December 2020, the government of India had extended his tenure until January 14, 2022. While his journey at ISRO has come to an end, the humble farmer’s son-turned-scientist and technocrat would continue to inspire the country, its aerospace aspirants via the upcoming missions he chooses to undertake. Thank you Dr K. Sivan!

40 years and counting.. in service of India, thank you Dr K. Sivan

There was no breakthrough in the 14th round of talks between the militaries of India and China, and the two sides agreed to maintain dialogue via military and diplomatic channels to work out a "mutually acceptable resolution" of the remaining issues.

The two sides said in a joint statement on Thursday that they have agreed that the next round of border talks should be held at the earliest. 
Indian Army Chief General M M Naravane had said on Wednesday that India was hopeful of resolving issues related to disengagement at Patrolling Point 15 (Hot Springs) in eastern Ladakh in the 14th round of talks.

The latest round of talks took place days after India hit out at China for building a bridge across Pangong lake in eastern Ladakh and said it is in an area that has been under illegal occupation of that country for around 60 years.

The 14th round of Corps Commander-level meeting was held on Wednesday at the Chushul-Moldo border meeting point on the Chinese side of the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh.

The joint statement said that the representatives from the defence and foreign affairs establishments of the two sides were present at the talks.

There was a "frank and in-depth" exchange of views for the resolution of the relevant issues related to the LAC in the western sector (Ladakh border), it said. 
The two countries agreed that both of them should follow "the guidance provided by the state leaders" and work for the resolution of the remaining issues at the earliest, according to the statement.

"It was noted that this would help in restoration of peace and tranquillity along the LAC in the Western Sector and enable progress in bilateral relations," it mentioned.

The two countries also agreed to consolidate on the previous outcomes and take effective efforts to maintain the security and stability on the ground in the Western Sector including during winter, it said.

"The two sides agreed to stay in close contact and maintain dialogue via military and diplomatic channels and work out a mutually acceptable resolution of the remaining issues at the earliest," it mentioned.

The two sides agreed that the next round of the commanders' talks should be held at the earliest, the statement said.

Along with Hot Springs, India has been talking with China about a quick disengagement on all the remaining friction points including resolution of issues in Depsang Bulge and Demchok.

Last week, India described China's renaming of some places in Arunachal Pradesh as a "ridiculous exercise" to support "untenable territorial" claims, asserting that the state has always been and will always remain an "inalienable" part of India.

In their virtual diplomatic talks on November 18 last year, India and China had agreed to hold the 14th round of military talks at an early date to achieve the objective of complete disengagement in remaining friction points in eastern Ladakh.

The 13th round of talks had taken place on October 10 last year and it had ended in a stalemate with the Indian Army saying after the dialogue that the "constructive suggestions" made by it were neither agreeable to the Chinese side nor it could provide any "forward-looking" proposals.

The eastern Ladakh border standoff between the Indian and Chinese militaries erupted on May 5, 2020, following a violent clash in the Pangong lake area.

Both sides gradually enhanced their deployment by rushing in tens of thousands of soldiers as well as heavy weaponry.

As a result of a series of military and diplomatic talks, the two sides completed the disengagement process last year in the north and south banks of the Pangong lake and in the Gogra area.

Each side currently has around 50,000 to 60,000 troops along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in the sensitive sector.&nbsp;

There was no breakthrough in the 14th round of talks between the militaries of India and China, and the two sides agreed to maintain dialogue via military and diplomatic channels to work out a "mutually acceptable resolution" of the remaining issues.

There was no breakthrough in the 14th round of talks between the militaries of India and China, and the two sides agreed to maintain dialogue via military and diplomatic channels to work out a "mutually acceptable resolution" of the remaining issues. The two sides said in a joint statement on Thursday that they have agreed that the next round of border talks should be held at the earliest. Indian Army Chief General M M Naravane had said on Wednesday that India was hopeful of resolving issues related to disengagement at Patrolling Point 15 (Hot Springs) in eastern Ladakh in the 14th round of talks. The latest round of talks took place days after India hit out at China for building a bridge across Pangong lake in eastern Ladakh and said it is in an area that has been under illegal occupation of that country for around 60 years. The 14th round of Corps Commander-level meeting was held on Wednesday at the Chushul-Moldo border meeting point on the Chinese side of the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh. The joint statement said that the representatives from the defence and foreign affairs establishments of the two sides were present at the talks. There was a "frank and in-depth" exchange of views for the resolution of the relevant issues related to the LAC in the western sector (Ladakh border), it said. The two countries agreed that both of them should follow "the guidance provided by the state leaders" and work for the resolution of the remaining issues at the earliest, according to the statement. "It was noted that this would help in restoration of peace and tranquillity along the LAC in the Western Sector and enable progress in bilateral relations," it mentioned. The two countries also agreed to consolidate on the previous outcomes and take effective efforts to maintain the security and stability on the ground in the Western Sector including during winter, it said. "The two sides agreed to stay in close contact and maintain dialogue via military and diplomatic channels and work out a mutually acceptable resolution of the remaining issues at the earliest," it mentioned. The two sides agreed that the next round of the commanders' talks should be held at the earliest, the statement said. Along with Hot Springs, India has been talking with China about a quick disengagement on all the remaining friction points including resolution of issues in Depsang Bulge and Demchok. Last week, India described China's renaming of some places in Arunachal Pradesh as a "ridiculous exercise" to support "untenable territorial" claims, asserting that the state has always been and will always remain an "inalienable" part of India. In their virtual diplomatic talks on November 18 last year, India and China had agreed to hold the 14th round of military talks at an early date to achieve the objective of complete disengagement in remaining friction points in eastern Ladakh. The 13th round of talks had taken place on October 10 last year and it had ended in a stalemate with the Indian Army saying after the dialogue that the "constructive suggestions" made by it were neither agreeable to the Chinese side nor it could provide any "forward-looking" proposals. The eastern Ladakh border standoff between the Indian and Chinese militaries erupted on May 5, 2020, following a violent clash in the Pangong lake area. Both sides gradually enhanced their deployment by rushing in tens of thousands of soldiers as well as heavy weaponry. As a result of a series of military and diplomatic talks, the two sides completed the disengagement process last year in the north and south banks of the Pangong lake and in the Gogra area. Each side currently has around 50,000 to 60,000 troops along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in the sensitive sector.

14th round of India-China border talks end with no breakthrough, both sides agree to meet soon

On the issue of criminalising marital rape, Indian government told the Delhi High Court on Thursday that it was considering a 'constructive approach'. &nbsp;

The government has also sought suggestions from state governments, the Chief Justice of India, MPs and others on several comprehensive amendments to the criminal law. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lack-of-evidence-forces-indian-court-to-acquit-bishop-franco-mulakkal-in-nun-rape-case-444634" hreflang="en">Lack of evidence forces Indian court to acquit Bishop Franco Mulakkal in nun rape case</a>

During the hearing, Justice Rajiv Shakdher, who is heading the bench dealing with a batch of petitions seeking criminalisation of marital rape, informed that Solicitor General Tushar Mehta mentioned the matter before him when certain other parties and Justice C Hari Shankar, who forms part of the bench, were not present. &nbsp;

Justice Shakdher said, "The matter was mentioned in the morning by the learned SG and he was saying that the government was considering a constructive approach to the matter." &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/russian-naval-ships-dock-at-cochin-port-to-take-part-in-exercise-with-indian-ships-444656" hreflang="en">Russian Naval ships dock at Cochin port; to take part in exercise with Indian ships</a>

Centre was undertaking a comprehensive task of amending the criminal law, which includes section 375 (rape) of the IPC, Indian government lawyer Monika Arora told the bench. &nbsp;

“We have invited suggestions from all chief ministers of all state governments...The chief justice of India, chief justice of all high courts...judicial academies, national law universities, the bar council of India, bar council of all courts and members of both houses of Parliament regarding comprehensively amending the criminal laws," she said. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

On the issue of criminalising marital rape, Indian government told the Delhi High Court on Thursday that it was considering a 'constructive approach'. The government has also sought suggestions from state governments, the Chief Justice of India, MPs and others on several comprehensive amendments to the criminal law.

On the issue of criminalising marital rape, Indian government told the Delhi High Court on Thursday that it was considering a 'constructive approach'. The government has also sought suggestions from state governments, the Chief Justice of India, MPs and others on several comprehensive amendments to the criminal law. Also Read: Lack of evidence forces Indian court to acquit Bishop Franco Mulakkal in nun rape case During the hearing, Justice Rajiv Shakdher, who is heading the bench dealing with a batch of petitions seeking criminalisation of marital rape, informed that Solicitor General Tushar Mehta mentioned the matter before him when certain other parties and Justice C Hari Shankar, who forms part of the bench, were not present. Justice Shakdher said, "The matter was mentioned in the morning by the learned SG and he was saying that the government was considering a constructive approach to the matter." Also Read: Russian Naval ships dock at Cochin port; to take part in exercise with Indian ships Centre was undertaking a comprehensive task of amending the criminal law, which includes section 375 (rape) of the IPC, Indian government lawyer Monika Arora told the bench. “We have invited suggestions from all chief ministers of all state governments...The chief justice of India, chief justice of all high courts...judicial academies, national law universities, the bar council of India, bar council of all courts and members of both houses of Parliament regarding comprehensively amending the criminal laws," she said. (With inputs from agencies)

Considering 'constructive approach' on criminalising marital rape, Indian govt tells Delhi HC

An Indian court in the state of Kerala acquitted Roman Catholic Bishop Franco Mulakkal of the charges of raping a nun in a convent on Friday, citing lack of evidence.

The Additional District and Sessions Court II acquitted the accused as the prosecution had failed to produce substantial evidence in the case. &nbsp;

In the case, 57-year-old Mulakkal was accused of raping the nun several times during the visit to a convent in the southern state. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/philippines-to-buy-indias-brahmos-missile-444614" hreflang="en">Philippines to buy India's BrahMos missile</a>

The alleged incident happened when he was the Bishop of the Jalandhar diocese of the Roman Catholic church. &nbsp;

In June 2018, a rape case was registered by police against the Bishop in Kottayam district after much furore. &nbsp;

In the complaint to the police, the nun alleged that she was subjected to sexual abuse by Mulakkal from 2014 to 2016. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-reports-over-6-increase-in-covid-19-cases-315-deaths-in-24-hours-444588" hreflang="en">India reports over 6% increase in COVID-19 cases; 315 deaths in 24 hours</a>

The Bishop was arrested in September 2018 by the Special Investigation Team, which probed the case. He was charged with rape, unnatural sex, wrongful confinement and criminal intimidation. &nbsp;

In November 2019, the trial had started in the case. It got concluded on January 10. &nbsp;

The print and electronic media were also restrained from publishing any matter relating to the trial by the court without its permission. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

An Indian court in the state of Kerala acquitted Roman Catholic Bishop Franco Mulakkal of the charges of raping a nun in a convent on Friday, citing lack of evidence.

An Indian court in the state of Kerala acquitted Roman Catholic Bishop Franco Mulakkal of the charges of raping a nun in a convent on Friday, citing lack of evidence. The Additional District and Sessions Court II acquitted the accused as the prosecution had failed to produce substantial evidence in the case. In the case, 57-year-old Mulakkal was accused of raping the nun several times during the visit to a convent in the southern state. Also Read: Philippines to buy India's BrahMos missile The alleged incident happened when he was the Bishop of the Jalandhar diocese of the Roman Catholic church. In June 2018, a rape case was registered by police against the Bishop in Kottayam district after much furore. In the complaint to the police, the nun alleged that she was subjected to sexual abuse by Mulakkal from 2014 to 2016. Also Read: India reports over 6% increase in COVID-19 cases; 315 deaths in 24 hours The Bishop was arrested in September 2018 by the Special Investigation Team, which probed the case. He was charged with rape, unnatural sex, wrongful confinement and criminal intimidation. In November 2019, the trial had started in the case. It got concluded on January 10. The print and electronic media were also restrained from publishing any matter relating to the trial by the court without its permission. (With inputs from agencies)

Lack of evidence forces Indian court to acquit Bishop Franco Mulakkal in nun rape case

Three Russian Naval ships, part of Russia's Pacific feet on Thursday docked at the southern port of Cochin and will be taking part in PASSEX exercises with the Indian Navy later today.&nbsp;

Russian Naval Missile Cruiser Varyag, Destroyer Admiral Tribuz and Russian Tanker Boris Butoma are on a 2-day visit to Indian port as part of a "goodwill visit", the Indian Navy in a release said.&nbsp;

The release said the ships arrived at 9 am IST on Thursday and were received by Senior Indian Naval Authorities.&nbsp;

Captain 1st Rank Anatoly Velichko, Commanding of the detachment, who is also the Chief of Staff of the division of ships, Russian Pacific Fleet, Captain 2nd Rank Roman Glushakov, Commanding Officer of RuFNS Varyag and Captain 2'd Rank Igor Tolbatov, Commanding Officer of RuFNS Admiral Tribuz called on Chief of Staff, Southern Naval Command, Rear Admiral Antony George.&nbsp;

The visit of the Russian ships is part of their long-term deployment in the Indian ocean and they had entered the region via the strait of Malacca.

The visit by Russian Naval ships come even as Moscow has been increasing its forays into the warm waters of the Indian ocean. Last year Russia became a dialogue partner of the Indian Ocean Rim Association or IORA.&nbsp;

The 23-member body consists of countries that share shores with the Indian ocean. The region has become an area of increased strategic competition even as a large quantity of the world's energy and trade passes through it. A regular port call has been part of India, Russia Naval engagement.&nbsp;

Last year in May, Russian destroyer Admiral Tributs had made a similar port call. It has taken part in operations alongside the Indian naval forces.&nbsp;

Indian &amp; Russian Navies continue to engage regularly through Naval Exercises such as the INDRANAVY. INS Tabar participated in the 325th Russian Navy Day in St Petersburg and exercise Indra Navy 2021. Initiated in 2003, Ex INDRA NAVY points to the long-term strategic relationship between the two navies.

Three Russian Naval ships, part of Russia's Pacific feet on Thursday docked at the southern port of Cochin and will be taking part in PASSEX exercises with the Indian Navy later today.

Three Russian Naval ships, part of Russia's Pacific feet on Thursday docked at the southern port of Cochin and will be taking part in PASSEX exercises with the Indian Navy later today. Russian Naval Missile Cruiser Varyag, Destroyer Admiral Tribuz and Russian Tanker Boris Butoma are on a 2-day visit to Indian port as part of a "goodwill visit", the Indian Navy in a release said. The release said the ships arrived at 9 am IST on Thursday and were received by Senior Indian Naval Authorities. Captain 1st Rank Anatoly Velichko, Commanding of the detachment, who is also the Chief of Staff of the division of ships, Russian Pacific Fleet, Captain 2nd Rank Roman Glushakov, Commanding Officer of RuFNS Varyag and Captain 2'd Rank Igor Tolbatov, Commanding Officer of RuFNS Admiral Tribuz called on Chief of Staff, Southern Naval Command, Rear Admiral Antony George. The visit of the Russian ships is part of their long-term deployment in the Indian ocean and they had entered the region via the strait of Malacca. The visit by Russian Naval ships come even as Moscow has been increasing its forays into the warm waters of the Indian ocean. Last year Russia became a dialogue partner of the Indian Ocean Rim Association or IORA. The 23-member body consists of countries that share shores with the Indian ocean. The region has become an area of increased strategic competition even as a large quantity of the world's energy and trade passes through it. A regular port call has been part of India, Russia Naval engagement. Last year in May, Russian destroyer Admiral Tributs had made a similar port call. It has taken part in operations alongside the Indian naval forces. Indian & Russian Navies continue to engage regularly through Naval Exercises such as the INDRANAVY. INS Tabar participated in the 325th Russian Navy Day in St Petersburg and exercise Indra Navy 2021. Initiated in 2003, Ex INDRA NAVY points to the long-term strategic relationship between the two navies.

Russian Naval ships dock at Cochin port; to take part in exercise with Indian ships

At the United Nation's security council, India has called on Houthi rebels to release its nationals from a hijacked vessel off the coast of Yemen.

Expressing "grave concern" at the hijacking of the Rawabi vessel, Indian envoy to the United Nations T. S. Tirumurti said, "We urge the Houthis to immediately release the crew members and the vessel. The Houthis also bear the responsibility of ensuring the safety of the crew members till their release. "

The UAE-flagged ship was hijacked by rebels last week and has 11 crew on board, of which 7 are Indian nationals. Envoy Tirumurti said the incident could "exacerbate the ongoing tensions" in the region and has the "potential to deeply compromise the maritime security in the region."

New Delhi is in touch with the company operating the ship. The development comes even as there has been an intensification of military operations in Yemen.

Reiterating India’s call for an "immediate and comprehensive ceasefire across Yemen" to be followed by a "robust and inclusive political process with the involvement of Yemeni women", the Indian envoy emphasised the "process fully respecting Yemen’s unity, sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity."

Yemen has been in a state of civil war since 2011, when, amid the Arab Spring, the then President&nbsp;Ali Abdullah Saleh was ousted.&nbsp;

The Indian Envoy called on "all parties to the conflict to immediately cease fighting, de-escalate the situation and engage unconditionally" as the "conflict continues to have a devastating impact on the people of Yemen, especially on women and children, and extends well beyond the tragic loss of human life." He also ,"condemned the continued cross-border attacks into Saudi Arabia targeting civilians and civilian infrastructure."

At the United Nation's security council, India has called on Houthi rebels to release its nationals from a hijacked vessel off the coast of Yemen. Expressing "grave concern" at the hijacking of the Rawabi vessel, Indian envoy to the United Nations T.

At the United Nation's security council, India has called on Houthi rebels to release its nationals from a hijacked vessel off the coast of Yemen. Expressing "grave concern" at the hijacking of the Rawabi vessel, Indian envoy to the United Nations T. S. Tirumurti said, "We urge the Houthis to immediately release the crew members and the vessel. The Houthis also bear the responsibility of ensuring the safety of the crew members till their release. " The UAE-flagged ship was hijacked by rebels last week and has 11 crew on board, of which 7 are Indian nationals. Envoy Tirumurti said the incident could "exacerbate the ongoing tensions" in the region and has the "potential to deeply compromise the maritime security in the region." New Delhi is in touch with the company operating the ship. The development comes even as there has been an intensification of military operations in Yemen. Reiterating India’s call for an "immediate and comprehensive ceasefire across Yemen" to be followed by a "robust and inclusive political process with the involvement of Yemeni women", the Indian envoy emphasised the "process fully respecting Yemen’s unity, sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity." Yemen has been in a state of civil war since 2011, when, amid the Arab Spring, the then President Ali Abdullah Saleh was ousted. The Indian Envoy called on "all parties to the conflict to immediately cease fighting, de-escalate the situation and engage unconditionally" as the "conflict continues to have a devastating impact on the people of Yemen, especially on women and children, and extends well beyond the tragic loss of human life." He also ,"condemned the continued cross-border attacks into Saudi Arabia targeting civilians and civilian infrastructure."

At UNSC, India calls for release of its nationals on board UAE-flagged vessel seized by Houthis

India reported a record 2,47,417 COVID-19 cases in the last 24 hours. There were 380 casualties due to the virus taking the total death toll to 4,85,035, the health ministry said.

The number of coronavirus cases rose by 27 per cent from the previous day with the daily positivity cases rising over 13 per cent.

India's health ministry informed the number of Omicron cases had gone up to 5,488. There have been 84,825 recoveries on Wednesday, the health ministry informed. There are&nbsp;11,17,531 active cases in the country.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/omicrons-sub-lineage-replaces-delta-becomes-dominant-strain-in-most-indian-states-443716">Also Read:&nbsp;Omicron's sub-lineage replaces Delta, becomes dominant strain in most Indian states</a>

India's western state of Maharashtra which has been hit the hardest in the past two years since the pandemic began informed 265 police officials had lost their lives due to COVID-19 with 126 casualties in Mumbai. The number of active cases among police personnel in the state currently stands at 2,145.

Pune city in Maharashtra reports 8,342 new cases and three deaths on Wednesday. The state had reported 46,723 new COVID cases and 32 deaths in 24 hours with the highest number of Omicron cases detected in Pune city.

Watch:&nbsp;India witnesses surge in Omicron variant cases

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India's capital Delhi reported 27, 561 new COVID-19 cases on Wednesday which was the highest in the past eight months.

Amid the rise in coronavirus cases, the Karnataka state government announced restrictions on the movement of vehicles within various districts.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amid-total-lockdowns-this-pushcart-offers-hope-for-chennais-hungry-ailing-and-needy-443614">Also Read:&nbsp;Amid total lockdowns, this pushcart offers hope for Chennai’s hungry, ailing, and needy&nbsp;</a>

India's southern state of Kerala also witnessed a surge in cases reporting &nbsp;12,742 new COVID cases and 23 deaths with the number of active cases rising to 54,430.

Another southern state Tamil Nadu reported 17,934 new COVID-19 cases with 19 deaths on Wednesday.

(With inputs from Agencies)

India reported a record 2,47,417 COVID-19 cases in the last 24 hours. There were 380 casualties due to the virus taking the total death toll to 4,85,035, the health ministry said.

India reported a record 2,47,417 COVID-19 cases in the last 24 hours. There were 380 casualties due to the virus taking the total death toll to 4,85,035, the health ministry said. The number of coronavirus cases rose by 27 per cent from the previous day with the daily positivity cases rising over 13 per cent. India's health ministry informed the number of Omicron cases had gone up to 5,488. There have been 84,825 recoveries on Wednesday, the health ministry informed. There are 11,17,531 active cases in the country. Also Read: Omicron's sub-lineage replaces Delta, becomes dominant strain in most Indian states India's western state of Maharashtra which has been hit the hardest in the past two years since the pandemic began informed 265 police officials had lost their lives due to COVID-19 with 126 casualties in Mumbai. The number of active cases among police personnel in the state currently stands at 2,145. Pune city in Maharashtra reports 8,342 new cases and three deaths on Wednesday. The state had reported 46,723 new COVID cases and 32 deaths in 24 hours with the highest number of Omicron cases detected in Pune city. Watch: India witnesses surge in Omicron variant cases India's capital Delhi reported 27, 561 new COVID-19 cases on Wednesday which was the highest in the past eight months. Amid the rise in coronavirus cases, the Karnataka state government announced restrictions on the movement of vehicles within various districts. Also Read: Amid total lockdowns, this pushcart offers hope for Chennai’s hungry, ailing, and needy India's southern state of Kerala also witnessed a surge in cases reporting 12,742 new COVID cases and 23 deaths with the number of active cases rising to 54,430. Another southern state Tamil Nadu reported 17,934 new COVID-19 cases with 19 deaths on Wednesday. (With inputs from Agencies)

India reports 27% increase in COVID-19 cases; 380 deaths in 24 hours

In a first, sewage samples taken from the Indian city, Chandigarh have tested positive for Covid. The ongoing pandemic has taken over the entire world by great shock. After humans, Covid cases have also been detected in various animals. However, sewage samples testing positive for Covid comes as another shocking development.

Sewage samples are processed differently from the human samples.

A report by Tribune India states that the samples were being tested as a mandate of the WHO-ICMR Centre for “environment surveillance for Covid-19”.

They were tested by Department of Virology, PGI. The testing of samples from wastewater treatment plants began in Indian cities Chandigarh and Amritsar during the month of December.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cannabis-help-in-preventing-covid-viral-study-offers-no-evidence-report-444531">Also read |&nbsp;Cannabis help in preventing Covid? Viral study offers no evidence: Report</a>

Earlier, similar technique has been used for the surveillance of polio as this virus is also excreted in the human faeces, just like coronavirus. This method&nbsp;is used as a prominent tool in determining virus transmission. Accordingly, measures can be taken to prevent the virus from spreading in that area.&nbsp;

One litre of sewage sample is concentrated for two to three days to 2-3 ml in order to improve the detection of SARS-CoV-2 RNA. Then, nucleic acid is extracted and purified. This way the virus is isolated from the sewage mixture. The sample is then tested on the RT-PCR machine to detect the presence of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. WHO states that finding RNA in wastewater implies that one or more person in the community have excreted virus through faeces.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a first, sewage samples taken from the Indian city, Chandigarh have tested positive for Covid. The ongoing pandemic has taken over the entire world by great shock.

In a first, sewage samples taken from the Indian city, Chandigarh have tested positive for Covid. The ongoing pandemic has taken over the entire world by great shock. After humans, Covid cases have also been detected in various animals. However, sewage samples testing positive for Covid comes as another shocking development. Sewage samples are processed differently from the human samples. A report by Tribune India states that the samples were being tested as a mandate of the WHO-ICMR Centre for “environment surveillance for Covid-19”. They were tested by Department of Virology, PGI. The testing of samples from wastewater treatment plants began in Indian cities Chandigarh and Amritsar during the month of December. Also read | Cannabis help in preventing Covid? Viral study offers no evidence: Report Earlier, similar technique has been used for the surveillance of polio as this virus is also excreted in the human faeces, just like coronavirus. This method is used as a prominent tool in determining virus transmission. Accordingly, measures can be taken to prevent the virus from spreading in that area. One litre of sewage sample is concentrated for two to three days to 2-3 ml in order to improve the detection of SARS-CoV-2 RNA. Then, nucleic acid is extracted and purified. This way the virus is isolated from the sewage mixture. The sample is then tested on the RT-PCR machine to detect the presence of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. WHO states that finding RNA in wastewater implies that one or more person in the community have excreted virus through faeces. (With inputs from agencies)

In a first, sewage samples test positive for Covid in Indian city

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hold a coronavirus (COVID-19) review meeting on Thursday (January 13) amid a sharp increase in the number of virus cases in the country after the emergence of the Omicron variant.&nbsp;

The Indian Prime Minister will interact with the chief ministers of all states at 4:30pm (local time) via video conferencing to assess the COVID situation.&nbsp;

The meeting scheduled for Thursday is this year's first meeting of the Prime Minister with the chief ministers.&nbsp;

It is expected that PM Modi will discuss state-specific scenarios, best practices and the public health response to counter the Covid threat.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/at-unsc-india-calls-for-release-of-its-nationals-on-board-uae-flagged-vessel-seized-by-houthis-444262">At UNSC, India calls for release of its nationals on board UAE-flagged vessel seized by Houthis</a>

As per the data on Thursday, India registered 2,47,417 fresh COVID-19 cases (27% higher than yesterday) and 84,825 recoveries in the last 24 hours.&nbsp;

The active cases in the country are 11,17,531 and the daily positivity rate is at 13.11 per cent. The confirmed Covid cases caused by the Omicron variant are 5,488.&nbsp;

Dr VK Paul, who is a NITI Aayog member, had cautioned on Wednesday that the infection caused by the Omicron variant of coronavirus should not be considered common cold and people should not take it lightly.&nbsp;

"Omicron is replacing Delta variant of COVID-19 as it is highly transmissible. It should be considered as the common cold. Normally, the transmission or expansion of the pandemic would take longer but this time it has been very rapid because of the high transmissibility," he said at the Health Ministry media briefing.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/who-is-s-somanath-heres-all-you-need-to-know-about-newly-appointed-isro-chairman-444197">Who is S Somanath? Here’s all you need to know about newly appointed ISRO Chairman&nbsp;</a>

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hold a coronavirus (COVID-19) review meeting on Thursday (January 13) amid a sharp increase in the number of virus cases in the country after the emergence of the Omicron variant.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hold a coronavirus (COVID-19) review meeting on Thursday (January 13) amid a sharp increase in the number of virus cases in the country after the emergence of the Omicron variant. The Indian Prime Minister will interact with the chief ministers of all states at 4:30pm (local time) via video conferencing to assess the COVID situation. The meeting scheduled for Thursday is this year's first meeting of the Prime Minister with the chief ministers. It is expected that PM Modi will discuss state-specific scenarios, best practices and the public health response to counter the Covid threat. ALSO READ | At UNSC, India calls for release of its nationals on board UAE-flagged vessel seized by Houthis As per the data on Thursday, India registered 2,47,417 fresh COVID-19 cases (27% higher than yesterday) and 84,825 recoveries in the last 24 hours. The active cases in the country are 11,17,531 and the daily positivity rate is at 13.11 per cent. The confirmed Covid cases caused by the Omicron variant are 5,488. Dr VK Paul, who is a NITI Aayog member, had cautioned on Wednesday that the infection caused by the Omicron variant of coronavirus should not be considered common cold and people should not take it lightly. "Omicron is replacing Delta variant of COVID-19 as it is highly transmissible. It should be considered as the common cold. Normally, the transmission or expansion of the pandemic would take longer but this time it has been very rapid because of the high transmissibility," he said at the Health Ministry media briefing. ALSO READ | Who is S Somanath? Here’s all you need to know about newly appointed ISRO Chairman ×

Amid rise in COVID-19 cases, PM Narendra Modi to chair meet with chief ministers

PM Modi's security breach: Threat calls to lawyer? Here's what we know so far and what to expect next

After almost a month-long shutdown, owing to poor living and dining facilities provided to workers, Taiwanese manufacturing giant Foxconn is gradually resuming operations at its iPhone assembly facility in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu.&nbsp;

Having called in nearly 100 workers on Wednesday, January 12th, Foxconn seems to be aiming at a full-fledged re-opening of its plant that employs over 15,000 personnel.&nbsp;

Having visited and reported from the earlier dormitories that were found to be in shoddy, poor condition, WION also visited the new Foxconn offsite dorms that are being spruced up.&nbsp;

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Thread: Visited &amp; reported from a new <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/foxconn?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#foxconn</a> offsite dorm that is being readied to accommodate women workers, who assemble <a href="https://twitter.com/Apple?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Apple</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/iPhone?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#iPhone</a> at the facility near <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Chennai?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Chennai</a> 
 
Campus was Much more spacious, far better than old dorm <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TamilNadu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TamilNadu</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/tngovernment?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#tngovernment</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Industry?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Industry</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/factory?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#factory</a> 
(1/n) <a href="https://t.co/NrEQNGcXND">pic.twitter.com/NrEQNGcXND</a>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1481642108729847809?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 13, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Situated on a vast campus, the new dorm facilities that are being spruced up to accommodate female workers, were far better in every aspect, when compared to the old dorms that WION had visited. The buildings were much larger, and there was adequate open space and green cover in the buildings. The rooms were found to be up to 400 sq ft in size and were meant to accommodate six female workers in bunker beds that were to be installed.&nbsp;

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(2/n) in this vast campus, there are 180 rooms being readied for now.. each 400sqft room will have bunker beds for 6 women.. mats, water heater, FA box, meals, water to be provided.. campus will be under cctv surveillance <a href="https://t.co/pxXbHey5vM">pic.twitter.com/pxXbHey5vM</a>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1481643290122686465?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 13, 2022</a></blockquote>
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According to the contractor responsible for the new facility, the female workers would be provided with beds, bed sheets, water heaters, shoe stands, rugs, first aid box etc.. Besides the meals provided during their working hours at the factory, they would also be provided food and water at the dorms. To ensure further safety and security, the entire campus would also be under CCTV camera surveillance.

The above amenities being provided at the new dorms are a significant improvement over the old dorms, where upto seven women had to stay in room that was hardly 150sqft in size. Despite having a window, owing to a fairly high compound wall blocking it, the ground floor rooms had hardly any natural ventilation. There were no beds or mattresses in sight, in any of the rooms in the old dorm.&nbsp;

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(3/n) for contrast, here’s a look at the old dorms where they used to stay 
 
It was the inadequate facilities here and the unhygienic food that led to Major issues and protest, eventual shutdown of factory for up to 4 weeks <a href="https://t.co/EIQCeaKz8K">pic.twitter.com/EIQCeaKz8K</a>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1481644044908642309?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 13, 2022</a></blockquote>
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To another corner of the building was a space that was used as a cooking area. It was was just an open space with large vessels and hardly any kitchen-like facility or a semblance of cleanliness and hygiene standards. Parts of the cooking area were surrounded by the compound walls whereas another side was covered by a tin sheet. Just a few steps away from the cooking area was a closed toilet that looked extremely unclean even from the outside, nearby was also a passage that led to the common washrooms.&nbsp;

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(4/n) this is the rear of the old dorm building, no concrete wall.. just tin sheet... to the right, we can see a shabby washroom and just near it is the area used for cooking <a href="https://t.co/Rcj0OWug74">pic.twitter.com/Rcj0OWug74</a>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1481644767834689536?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 13, 2022</a></blockquote>
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The new dorm that WION visited was among the many dorms that were being readied for the impending arrival of women workers, who are expected to arrive in batches. According to persons who were on site to inspect the dorms, a total of 17 new dorms were being readied as part of Foxconn offsite facilities.&nbsp;

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(5/n) painting, cleaning, other civil work underway at new dorm.. beds brought in.. cctv cams being installed.. facility being readied to accommodate up to 1000women workers 
 
17 such new dorms are being readied as part of the corrective measures that <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/foxconn?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#foxconn</a> Is undertaking <a href="https://t.co/fGXPNtJE6Q">pic.twitter.com/fGXPNtJE6Q</a>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1481647337290477570?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 13, 2022</a></blockquote>
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On Wednesday, speaking to media, Tamil Nadu Industries Minister Thangam Thennarasu said that the Foxconn labour issue had be resolved amicably and he was happy to learn of the Foxconn plant in Sriperumbudur, near Chennai, resuming operations after the return of women workers. He added that the factory would continue to function without any issues. According to him, the Chief Minister MK Stalin had intervened in the matter urged Foxconn and all relevant government departments to ensure that the workers were provided adequate facilities and even received an assurance from Foxconn in that regard.&nbsp;

After almost a month-long shutdown, owing to poor living and dining facilities provided to workers, Taiwanese manufacturing giant Foxconn is gradually resuming operations at its iPhone assembly facility in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu.

After almost a month-long shutdown, owing to poor living and dining facilities provided to workers, Taiwanese manufacturing giant Foxconn is gradually resuming operations at its iPhone assembly facility in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu. Having called in nearly 100 workers on Wednesday, January 12th, Foxconn seems to be aiming at a full-fledged re-opening of its plant that employs over 15,000 personnel. Having visited and reported from the earlier dormitories that were found to be in shoddy, poor condition, WION also visited the new Foxconn offsite dorms that are being spruced up. Thread: Visited & reported from a new #foxconn offsite dorm that is being readied to accommodate women workers, who assemble @Apple #iPhone at the facility near #Chennai Campus was Much more spacious, far better than old dorm #TamilNadu #tngovernment #Industry #factory (1/n) pic.twitter.com/NrEQNGcXND — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) January 13, 2022 × Situated on a vast campus, the new dorm facilities that are being spruced up to accommodate female workers, were far better in every aspect, when compared to the old dorms that WION had visited. The buildings were much larger, and there was adequate open space and green cover in the buildings. The rooms were found to be up to 400 sq ft in size and were meant to accommodate six female workers in bunker beds that were to be installed. (2/n) in this vast campus, there are 180 rooms being readied for now.. each 400sqft room will have bunker beds for 6 women.. mats, water heater, FA box, meals, water to be provided.. campus will be under cctv surveillance pic.twitter.com/pxXbHey5vM — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) January 13, 2022 × According to the contractor responsible for the new facility, the female workers would be provided with beds, bed sheets, water heaters, shoe stands, rugs, first aid box etc.. Besides the meals provided during their working hours at the factory, they would also be provided food and water at the dorms. To ensure further safety and security, the entire campus would also be under CCTV camera surveillance. The above amenities being provided at the new dorms are a significant improvement over the old dorms, where upto seven women had to stay in room that was hardly 150sqft in size. Despite having a window, owing to a fairly high compound wall blocking it, the ground floor rooms had hardly any natural ventilation. There were no beds or mattresses in sight, in any of the rooms in the old dorm. (3/n) for contrast, here’s a look at the old dorms where they used to stay It was the inadequate facilities here and the unhygienic food that led to Major issues and protest, eventual shutdown of factory for up to 4 weeks pic.twitter.com/EIQCeaKz8K — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) January 13, 2022 × To another corner of the building was a space that was used as a cooking area. It was was just an open space with large vessels and hardly any kitchen-like facility or a semblance of cleanliness and hygiene standards. Parts of the cooking area were surrounded by the compound walls whereas another side was covered by a tin sheet. Just a few steps away from the cooking area was a closed toilet that looked extremely unclean even from the outside, nearby was also a passage that led to the common washrooms. (4/n) this is the rear of the old dorm building, no concrete wall.. just tin sheet... to the right, we can see a shabby washroom and just near it is the area used for cooking pic.twitter.com/Rcj0OWug74 — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) January 13, 2022 × The new dorm that WION visited was among the many dorms that were being readied for the impending arrival of women workers, who are expected to arrive in batches. According to persons who were on site to inspect the dorms, a total of 17 new dorms were being readied as part of Foxconn offsite facilities. (5/n) painting, cleaning, other civil work underway at new dorm.. beds brought in.. cctv cams being installed.. facility being readied to accommodate up to 1000women workers 17 such new dorms are being readied as part of the corrective measures that #foxconn Is undertaking pic.twitter.com/fGXPNtJE6Q — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) January 13, 2022 × On Wednesday, speaking to media, Tamil Nadu Industries Minister Thangam Thennarasu said that the Foxconn labour issue had be resolved amicably and he was happy to learn of the Foxconn plant in Sriperumbudur, near Chennai, resuming operations after the return of women workers. He added that the factory would continue to function without any issues. According to him, the Chief Minister MK Stalin had intervened in the matter urged Foxconn and all relevant government departments to ensure that the workers were provided adequate facilities and even received an assurance from Foxconn in that regard.

India: Full-fledged operations in sight, Foxconn readies new dorms for workers assembling iPhones

The pandemic has disrupted education worldwide. Online classes continue. However, some high-end tech institutions in India seem undeterred. Despite the new normal, IIT Madras in the Southern Indian city of Chennai is witnessing the highest ever job offers.

IIT Madras in the South Indian city of Chennai is witnessing the highest ever job placement offers

On January 14, Makar Sankranti, the Indian Ministry of AYUSH, will host a global Surya Namaskar demonstration programme for 7.5 million individuals.

Surya Namaskar is done as a salute to the Sun on this day to express gratitude for each of its rays, which nourish all living beings, according to an Ayush ministry statement.&nbsp;

Surya Namaskar has been scientifically proven to boost immunity and energy, all of which are important for health during pandemics, according to the statement.

The Ministry stated that exposure to the sun nourishes the human body with Vitamin D, which is generally recommended in all medical branches around the world. 
 
Watch | Global Surya Namaskar Demonstration programme: Learn how to do it perfectly

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/global-surya-namaskar-demonstration-programme-learn-how-to-do-it-perfectly-444485/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

According to the AYUSH Ministry, the mass Surya Namaskar demonstration programme will also convey a message about climate change and global warming.

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75 Lakh people around the world will perform Surya Namaskara on Makar Sankranti (14 January 2022). Let us learn the right way to perform Surya Namaskara by watching the video below.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ayush?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ayush</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/75LakhSuryaNamaskar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#75LakhSuryaNamaskar</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Yoga?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Yoga</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Immunity?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Immunity</a> <a href="https://t.co/oXBEGUK61A">pic.twitter.com/oXBEGUK61A</a>
— Ministry of Ayush (@moayush) <a href="https://twitter.com/moayush/status/1480434878554406913?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 10, 2022</a></blockquote>
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What is Surya Namaskar (Sun Salutation)?

Suryanamaskar is a combination of 8 asanas, performed in 12 steps, in coordination with mind &amp; the body. It helps in improving vitality &amp; enhances immunity too.

Suryanamaskara is a way of offering gratitude to the Sun for being the source of energy for the all the living beings.

Surya Namaskar steps are best practised first thing in the morning on an empty stomach.

Sun Salutation is divided into two sets, each of which consisting of 12 yoga positions.

There are various variations on how to perform Sun Salutation.

However, for the best results, it is best to stick to one form and practise it on a daily basis.

Surya Namaskar provides an opportunity to show thanks to the sun for supporting life on this planet, in addition to excellent health.&nbsp;

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Suryanamaskar is a combination of 8 asanas, performed in 12 steps, in coordination with mind &amp; the body. It helps in improving vitality &amp; enhances immunity too.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Yoga?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Yoga</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SuryaNamaskar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SuryaNamaskar</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/75LakhSuryanamaskar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#75LakhSuryanamaskar</a> <a href="https://t.co/NKaUvkHqZE">pic.twitter.com/NKaUvkHqZE</a>
— Ministry of Ayush (@moayush) <a href="https://twitter.com/moayush/status/1480383092254646273?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 10, 2022</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

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Suryanamaskara is a way of offering gratitude to the Sun for being the source of energy for the all the living beings. 
 
Below are the next 4 steps from our series on how to perform Suryanamaskara perfectly. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/75LakhSuryanamaskar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#75LakhSuryanamaskar</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Suryanamskar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Suryanamskar</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Yoga?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Yoga</a> <a href="https://t.co/w8KfOsgrhp">pic.twitter.com/w8KfOsgrhp</a>
— Ministry of Ayush (@moayush) <a href="https://twitter.com/moayush/status/1480774255671349248?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2022</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

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Hope you all are excited to perform Surya Namaskara on 14 January 2022, from the comfort of your homes! 
 
If you haven't registered yet, click here:<a href="https://t.co/27xKNm7Eq1">https://t.co/27xKNm7Eq1</a><a href="https://t.co/QqED0315kY">https://t.co/QqED0315kY</a><a href="https://t.co/ZXx2ocaLLE">https://t.co/ZXx2ocaLLE</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/75lakhSuryanamaskar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#75lakhSuryanamaskar</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Yoga?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Yoga</a> <a href="https://t.co/59ZgB9XosX">pic.twitter.com/59ZgB9XosX</a>
— Ministry of Ayush (@moayush) <a href="https://twitter.com/moayush/status/1481112516063543297?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 12, 2022</a></blockquote>
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What is Makar Sankranti?

Makar Sankranti or Uttarayan or Maghi or simply Sankranti, sam(n)kranti here means'transfer,' is the day when the Sun enters Capricorn.

Many native festivities are held all over India as the sun advances northwards in the Hindu calendar, devoted to the deity Surya (sun).

It refers to a specific solar day in the Hindu calendar. On this auspicious day, the sun enters the zodiac sign of Capricorn or Makar which marks the end of winter months and the beginning of longer days. This is the beginning of the month of Magh.&nbsp;

The date of Makar Sankranti may change somewhat in leap years due to the addition of one day.

It falls on the 15th of January on leap years and the 14th of January otherwise.

Although there are 365.24 days in a year, we can only use 365 of them.

On leap years, we add an extra day.

The year Calendar is nearly one day behind the sun by the time of leap year, causing Makar Sankranti to fall on January 15th.

When the fix is made, Makar Sankranti is pushed back to January 14th.&nbsp;

(With input from agencies)

On January 14, Makar Sankranti, the Indian Ministry of AYUSH, will host a global Surya Namaskar demonstration programme for 7.5 million individuals. Surya Namaskar is done as a salute to the Sun on this day to express gratitude for each of its rays, which nourish all living beings, according to an Ayush ministry statement.

On January 14, Makar Sankranti, the Indian Ministry of AYUSH, will host a global Surya Namaskar demonstration programme for 7.5 million individuals. Surya Namaskar is done as a salute to the Sun on this day to express gratitude for each of its rays, which nourish all living beings, according to an Ayush ministry statement. Surya Namaskar has been scientifically proven to boost immunity and energy, all of which are important for health during pandemics, according to the statement. The Ministry stated that exposure to the sun nourishes the human body with Vitamin D, which is generally recommended in all medical branches around the world. Watch | Global Surya Namaskar Demonstration programme: Learn how to do it perfectly According to the AYUSH Ministry, the mass Surya Namaskar demonstration programme will also convey a message about climate change and global warming. 75 Lakh people around the world will perform Surya Namaskara on Makar Sankranti (14 January 2022). Let us learn the right way to perform Surya Namaskara by watching the video below.#Ayush #75LakhSuryaNamaskar #Yoga #Immunity pic.twitter.com/oXBEGUK61A — Ministry of Ayush (@moayush) January 10, 2022 × What is Surya Namaskar (Sun Salutation)? Suryanamaskar is a combination of 8 asanas, performed in 12 steps, in coordination with mind & the body. It helps in improving vitality & enhances immunity too. Suryanamaskara is a way of offering gratitude to the Sun for being the source of energy for the all the living beings. Surya Namaskar steps are best practised first thing in the morning on an empty stomach. Sun Salutation is divided into two sets, each of which consisting of 12 yoga positions. There are various variations on how to perform Sun Salutation. However, for the best results, it is best to stick to one form and practise it on a daily basis. Surya Namaskar provides an opportunity to show thanks to the sun for supporting life on this planet, in addition to excellent health. Suryanamaskar is a combination of 8 asanas, performed in 12 steps, in coordination with mind & the body. It helps in improving vitality & enhances immunity too.#Yoga #SuryaNamaskar #75LakhSuryanamaskar pic.twitter.com/NKaUvkHqZE — Ministry of Ayush (@moayush) January 10, 2022 × Suryanamaskara is a way of offering gratitude to the Sun for being the source of energy for the all the living beings. Below are the next 4 steps from our series on how to perform Suryanamaskara perfectly. #75LakhSuryanamaskar #Suryanamskar #Yoga pic.twitter.com/w8KfOsgrhp — Ministry of Ayush (@moayush) January 11, 2022 × Hope you all are excited to perform Surya Namaskara on 14 January 2022, from the comfort of your homes! If you haven't registered yet, click here:https://t.co/27xKNm7Eq1https://t.co/QqED0315kYhttps://t.co/ZXx2ocaLLE#75lakhSuryanamaskar #Yoga pic.twitter.com/59ZgB9XosX — Ministry of Ayush (@moayush) January 12, 2022 × What is Makar Sankranti? Makar Sankranti or Uttarayan or Maghi or simply Sankranti, sam(n)kranti here means'transfer,' is the day when the Sun enters Capricorn. Many native festivities are held all over India as the sun advances northwards in the Hindu calendar, devoted to the deity Surya (sun). It refers to a specific solar day in the Hindu calendar. On this auspicious day, the sun enters the zodiac sign of Capricorn or Makar which marks the end of winter months and the beginning of longer days. This is the beginning of the month of Magh. The date of Makar Sankranti may change somewhat in leap years due to the addition of one day. It falls on the 15th of January on leap years and the 14th of January otherwise. Although there are 365.24 days in a year, we can only use 365 of them. On leap years, we add an extra day. The year Calendar is nearly one day behind the sun by the time of leap year, causing Makar Sankranti to fall on January 15th. When the fix is made, Makar Sankranti is pushed back to January 14th. (With input from agencies)

After Yoga, Surya namaskar to go global, 7.5 million to perform on Jan 14

The united kingdom and India have formally launched free trade agreement talks in New Delhi, the aim is to wrap up a trade deal by the end of this year. both nations are hoping a deal will boost annual bilateral trade by billions of dollars, Britain has made a deal with India one of its post-Brexit priorities.

British trade secretary visits India to launch free trade agreement talks

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