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It's a bit of a dream come true for everyone in the Kashmir valley. With fresh snowfall, tourist destinations such as Gulmarg and Pahalgam look pretty spectacular in their avatar as winter wonderlands.

Kashmir's white Christmas: Valley receives most tourists in 10 years along with fresh snowfall

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the Covid-19 vaccine for children and booster doses, which PM Modi termed as precaution doses, for frontline workers and senior citizens, amid the Omicron scare. Children between the age group of 15 to 18 years will be getting the Covid vaccine from January 3, 2022. Senior citizens with comorbidities will receive booster doses from January 10, 2022, he announced.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi addresses the nation

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi announces COVID-19 vaccine booster campaign

The Delhi government on Sunday announced night curfew&nbsp;to be imposed in India's capital from Monday due to increasing COVID-19 cases.

India's capital reported 290 COVID-19 and one death in the last 24 hours. The number of active cases in the capital stands at&nbsp;1,103.

The night curfew in Delhi will be imposed from 11:00 pm to 5:00 am, the state government said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/pictures-amid-omicron-fear-indian-streets-were-seen-packed-with-crowd-on-christmas-440078">Also Read in Pics:&nbsp;Amid Omicron fear, Indian streets were packed on Christmas</a>

Meanwhile, India's Karnataka state reported 348 COVID-19 cases and 3 deaths in the last 24 hours. The state health minister Dr Sudhakar K said 75 per cent of the eligible population has been administered with second dose of vaccine.

"Vaccination will start for kids from 15 to 18 years of age in the state from January 3," state health minister Dr Sudhakar K said

In Mumbai, there were 922 new COVID-19 cases and two deaths with the total number of infected cases rising to 7,71,112 and the death toll touching 16,370. The Maharashtra health department informed 31 new Omicron cases were detected on Sunday taking the total number of cases of the new variant in the state to 141.

India reported 6,987 new COVID-19 cases along with 162 deaths in the last 24 hours with active cases at 76,766. The total death toll due to the virus in the country has reached 4,79,682.

India's health ministry informed the total number of Omicron cases has now reached 422 and has spread to 17 states as Kerala reported 19 more cases of Omicron variant on Sunday.

(With inputs from Delhi)

(With inputs from Agencies) 
&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The Delhi government on Sunday announced night curfew to be imposed in India's capital from Monday due to increasing COVID-19 cases. India's capital reported 290 COVID-19 and one death in the last 24 hours.

The Delhi government on Sunday announced night curfew to be imposed in India's capital from Monday due to increasing COVID-19 cases. India's capital reported 290 COVID-19 and one death in the last 24 hours. The number of active cases in the capital stands at 1,103. The night curfew in Delhi will be imposed from 11:00 pm to 5:00 am, the state government said. Also Read in Pics: Amid Omicron fear, Indian streets were packed on Christmas Meanwhile, India's Karnataka state reported 348 COVID-19 cases and 3 deaths in the last 24 hours. The state health minister Dr Sudhakar K said 75 per cent of the eligible population has been administered with second dose of vaccine. "Vaccination will start for kids from 15 to 18 years of age in the state from January 3," state health minister Dr Sudhakar K said In Mumbai, there were 922 new COVID-19 cases and two deaths with the total number of infected cases rising to 7,71,112 and the death toll touching 16,370. The Maharashtra health department informed 31 new Omicron cases were detected on Sunday taking the total number of cases of the new variant in the state to 141. India reported 6,987 new COVID-19 cases along with 162 deaths in the last 24 hours with active cases at 76,766. The total death toll due to the virus in the country has reached 4,79,682. India's health ministry informed the total number of Omicron cases has now reached 422 and has spread to 17 states as Kerala reported 19 more cases of Omicron variant on Sunday. (With inputs from Delhi) (With inputs from Agencies)

Delhi government imposes night curfew amid rise in COVID-19 cases

As many as 5 terrorists were neutralised in 48 hours during anti-terrorist operations in Jammu and Kashmir.

On Sunday, a terrorist belonging to the Islamic State Jammu and Kashmir (ISJK) outfit, who was involved in the killing of a police officer, was killed in an encounter with security forces in Anantnag, police said.

Inspector-General of Police, Kashmir, Vijay Kumar identified the slain terrorist as Faheem Bhat, resident of Kadipora Anantnag.

“He has recently joined terror outfit ISJK and was involved in the killing of Martyr ASI Mohd Ashraf, who was posted at PS Bijbehara,” the IGP Kashmir said in a tweet.

The search operation turned into an encounter after the hiding terrorists fired on the forces, who retaliated, he said.

ASI Ashraf was shot dead by terrorists outside Bijbehara hospital on Wednesday evening.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bulletproof-vehicles-new-gadgets-for-jammu-kashmir-police-amid-spate-of-terrorist-attacks-437733">Hizbul terrorist killed in encounter in India’s Jammu and Kashmir</a>

The encounter at K Kalan, Srigufwara area of the south Kashmir district began late on Saturday night.

On Saturday, four militants, including an IED expert, were killed in twin encounters with security forces.

While two Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) militants were killed in Shopian district, two from proscribed terror outfit Ansar Gazwat-ul-Hind (AuGH) were gunned down in Pulwama district in south Kashmir.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bulletproof-vehicles-new-gadgets-for-jammu-kashmir-police-amid-spate-of-terrorist-attacks-437733">&nbsp;Bulletproof vehicles, new gadgets for Jammu Kashmir Police amid spate of terrorist attacks</a>

Acting on a tip-off about the presence of militants in Chowgam village in Shopian, security forces launched a cordon and search operation during the night, a police official said.

According to reports, both the killed terrorists were linked with proscribed terror outfit LeT and were involved in several terror crime cases.

They were also involved in motivating and recruiting the youth to join terror folds, a police official said.

In another encounter that broke out at Hardumir in the Tral area of Pulwama, two militants were killed, the official said. Both were affiliated with proscribed terror outfit AuGH.

Inspector General of Police, Kashmir, Vijay Kumar identified the two as Nadeem Bhat and Rasool alias Adil.

(With inputs from agencies)

As many as 5 terrorists were neutralised in 48 hours during anti-terrorist operations in Jammu and Kashmir. On Sunday, a terrorist belonging to the Islamic State Jammu and Kashmir (ISJK) outfit, who was involved in the killing of a police officer, was killed in an encounter with security forces in Anantnag, police said.

As many as 5 terrorists were neutralised in 48 hours during anti-terrorist operations in Jammu and Kashmir. On Sunday, a terrorist belonging to the Islamic State Jammu and Kashmir (ISJK) outfit, who was involved in the killing of a police officer, was killed in an encounter with security forces in Anantnag, police said. Inspector-General of Police, Kashmir, Vijay Kumar identified the slain terrorist as Faheem Bhat, resident of Kadipora Anantnag. “He has recently joined terror outfit ISJK and was involved in the killing of Martyr ASI Mohd Ashraf, who was posted at PS Bijbehara,” the IGP Kashmir said in a tweet. The search operation turned into an encounter after the hiding terrorists fired on the forces, who retaliated, he said. ASI Ashraf was shot dead by terrorists outside Bijbehara hospital on Wednesday evening. Also read | Hizbul terrorist killed in encounter in India’s Jammu and Kashmir The encounter at K Kalan, Srigufwara area of the south Kashmir district began late on Saturday night. On Saturday, four militants, including an IED expert, were killed in twin encounters with security forces. While two Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) militants were killed in Shopian district, two from proscribed terror outfit Ansar Gazwat-ul-Hind (AuGH) were gunned down in Pulwama district in south Kashmir. Also read | Bulletproof vehicles, new gadgets for Jammu Kashmir Police amid spate of terrorist attacks Acting on a tip-off about the presence of militants in Chowgam village in Shopian, security forces launched a cordon and search operation during the night, a police official said. According to reports, both the killed terrorists were linked with proscribed terror outfit LeT and were involved in several terror crime cases. They were also involved in motivating and recruiting the youth to join terror folds, a police official said. In another encounter that broke out at Hardumir in the Tral area of Pulwama, two militants were killed, the official said. Both were affiliated with proscribed terror outfit AuGH. Inspector General of Police, Kashmir, Vijay Kumar identified the two as Nadeem Bhat and Rasool alias Adil. (With inputs from agencies)

5 terrorists killed in Jammu and Kashmir in 48 hours

Kashmir's white Christmas: Valley witnesses dream-like Christmas celebrations with snowfall

Pictures: Amid Omicron fear, Indian streets were seen packed with crowd on Christmas

Kashmir's white Christmas: Valley receives the most tourists in 10 years along with fresh snowfall

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation on Saturday (December 25) as concerns over the new variant of coronavirus (COVID-19) is gripping India. Experts have warned that a new virus wave might come in the upcoming months, probably February and March.&nbsp;

PM Modi talked about a range of topics, here are the key takeaways from the address:&nbsp;

1) Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged the citizens to be careful while engaging in festivities amid concerns over the Omicron outbreak.

2) He announced Covid vaccination for children of 15-18 age group, which will start from January 3.&nbsp;

3) 'Precaution dose' of COVID-19 vaccine to be given to frontline and health care workers from January 10, 2022.&nbsp;

4) He said that those above 60 years of age and with comorbidities can also avail of a 'precaution dose' of the Covid vaccine on doctor's advice.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-capital-registers-249-new-covid-cases-witnesses-biggest-single-day-spike-since-june-13-439956">Indian capital registers 249 new Covid cases, witnesses biggest single-day spike since June 13</a>

5) Nasal vaccine, the world's first DNA vaccine against Covid will soon start in India.&nbsp;

6) PM Modi said that it is not the time to panic, but asked the citizens to be careful. He said to use face masks, hand sanitisation, and other prescribed Covid measures.&nbsp;

7) He said that over 90 per cent of the eligible adult population got the first dose and over 61 per cent have got both doses of the Covid vaccine.

8)&nbsp;He added that it is the collective effort and collective will of all the citizens of the country that India has crossed the unprecedented and very difficult target of 141 crore vaccine doses.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/iit-kanpur-study-tells-when-third-covid-19-wave-in-india-may-peak-439713">IIT-Kanpur study tells when third COVID-19 wave in India may peak</a>

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My address to the nation. <a href="https://t.co/dBQKvHXPtv">https://t.co/dBQKvHXPtv</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1474775804336697345?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 25, 2021</a></blockquote>
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India's Union Health Ministry informed that the country has reported 7,189 new COVID-19 cases in the last 24 hours. Meanwhile, the nationwide case tally of the Omicron variant of coronavirus has reached 415.

Amid the Omicron scare and surge in cases in various parts of the country, the Union Health Ministry on Saturday said that multi-disciplinary Central teams would be deployed in ten identified states.

"A decision has been taken to deploy multi-disciplinary Central teams to 10 identified States some of which are either reporting an increasing number of Omicron and COVID-19 cases or slow vaccination pace," says Union Health Ministry in an official statement.&nbsp;

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(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation on Saturday (December 25) as concerns over the new variant of coronavirus (COVID-19) is gripping India. Experts have warned that a new virus wave might come in the upcoming months, probably February and March.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation on Saturday (December 25) as concerns over the new variant of coronavirus (COVID-19) is gripping India. Experts have warned that a new virus wave might come in the upcoming months, probably February and March. PM Modi talked about a range of topics, here are the key takeaways from the address: 1) Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged the citizens to be careful while engaging in festivities amid concerns over the Omicron outbreak. 2) He announced Covid vaccination for children of 15-18 age group, which will start from January 3. 3) 'Precaution dose' of COVID-19 vaccine to be given to frontline and health care workers from January 10, 2022. 4) He said that those above 60 years of age and with comorbidities can also avail of a 'precaution dose' of the Covid vaccine on doctor's advice. ALSO READ | Indian capital registers 249 new Covid cases, witnesses biggest single-day spike since June 13 5) Nasal vaccine, the world's first DNA vaccine against Covid will soon start in India. 6) PM Modi said that it is not the time to panic, but asked the citizens to be careful. He said to use face masks, hand sanitisation, and other prescribed Covid measures. 7) He said that over 90 per cent of the eligible adult population got the first dose and over 61 per cent have got both doses of the Covid vaccine. 8) He added that it is the collective effort and collective will of all the citizens of the country that India has crossed the unprecedented and very difficult target of 141 crore vaccine doses. ALSO READ | IIT-Kanpur study tells when third COVID-19 wave in India may peak My address to the nation. https://t.co/dBQKvHXPtv — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 25, 2021 × India's Union Health Ministry informed that the country has reported 7,189 new COVID-19 cases in the last 24 hours. Meanwhile, the nationwide case tally of the Omicron variant of coronavirus has reached 415. Amid the Omicron scare and surge in cases in various parts of the country, the Union Health Ministry on Saturday said that multi-disciplinary Central teams would be deployed in ten identified states. "A decision has been taken to deploy multi-disciplinary Central teams to 10 identified States some of which are either reporting an increasing number of Omicron and COVID-19 cases or slow vaccination pace," says Union Health Ministry in an official statement. × (With inputs from agencies)

COVID-19: From vaccination for children to DNA jabs - key takeaways from PM Modi's address

The main accused in the December 23 bomb blast in Punjab court was an ex-cop and had links to Khalistani elements, state’s top police chief Siddharth Chattopadhyaya said, suggesting that the attack was carried out on the behest of Pakistan’s spy agency ISI.

Addressing the media for the first time after assuming charge as Punjab’s Director General of Police (DGP), Chattopadhyaya on Saturday said that the accused — Gagandeep Singh, a dismissed Punjab Police head constable who got killed in the blast— was in touch with radical Khalistan elements when he was in jail in a drugs case.

Citing preliminary investigations, the DGP said that Singh got in touch with such elements “most probably while he was in jail in Punjab” where he “transitioned from just narcotics to mafia and terror”.

The top police chief said the blast was meant to create&nbsp;a sense of insecurity ahead of the state elections and instil&nbsp;a sense of fear in the courts.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/punjab-on-high-alert-as-two-killed-three-injured-in-ludhiana-court-blast-439271">Punjab on high alert as two killed, three injured in Ludhiana court blast</a>

“It was an external conspiracy. The motive was to scare the judiciary. Two persons undergoing trial in drug cases have been brought on production warrant while a woman constable has been detained for questioning,” Chattopadhyaya said.

“As per leads with us, we strongly suspect that the person (behind Ludhiana blast) is operating from Pakistan only,” the DGP added.

The DGP said “police visibility” would be increased and security beefed up at crowded places in the state by pruning security cover of private individuals and deploying them in the field.

The bombing took place on Thursday, killing accused Gagandeep Singh and injuring six others at Ludhiana District Court Complex.

Ludhiana Commissioner of Police informed that the explosion was heard near the Record Room on the second floor of the Ludhiana Court complex.

The blast damaged the roof and walls of the toilet. Following the explosion, the bathroom grill fell on the vehicles parked on the ground floor.

(With inputs from agencies)

The main accused in the December 23 bomb blast in Punjab court was an ex-cop and had links to Khalistani elements, state’s top police chief Siddharth Chattopadhyaya said, suggesting that the attack was carried out on the behest of Pakistan’s spy agency ISI.

The main accused in the December 23 bomb blast in Punjab court was an ex-cop and had links to Khalistani elements, state’s top police chief Siddharth Chattopadhyaya said, suggesting that the attack was carried out on the behest of Pakistan’s spy agency ISI. Addressing the media for the first time after assuming charge as Punjab’s Director General of Police (DGP), Chattopadhyaya on Saturday said that the accused — Gagandeep Singh, a dismissed Punjab Police head constable who got killed in the blast— was in touch with radical Khalistan elements when he was in jail in a drugs case. Citing preliminary investigations, the DGP said that Singh got in touch with such elements “most probably while he was in jail in Punjab” where he “transitioned from just narcotics to mafia and terror”. The top police chief said the blast was meant to create a sense of insecurity ahead of the state elections and instil a sense of fear in the courts. Also read | Punjab on high alert as two killed, three injured in Ludhiana court blast “It was an external conspiracy. The motive was to scare the judiciary. Two persons undergoing trial in drug cases have been brought on production warrant while a woman constable has been detained for questioning,” Chattopadhyaya said. “As per leads with us, we strongly suspect that the person (behind Ludhiana blast) is operating from Pakistan only,” the DGP added. The DGP said “police visibility” would be increased and security beefed up at crowded places in the state by pruning security cover of private individuals and deploying them in the field. The bombing took place on Thursday, killing accused Gagandeep Singh and injuring six others at Ludhiana District Court Complex. Ludhiana Commissioner of Police informed that the explosion was heard near the Record Room on the second floor of the Ludhiana Court complex. The blast damaged the roof and walls of the toilet. Following the explosion, the bathroom grill fell on the vehicles parked on the ground floor. (With inputs from agencies)

Ludhiana court blast accused an ex-cop, had links to Khalistan, ISI: Punjab Police chief

Indian PM Narendra Modi addressed the nation with the 84th edition of Mann ki Baat. It is also the last edition of this year.

Watch Indian PM Narendra Modi's last 'Mann Ki Baat' this year

After tormenting numerous countries around the world, Omicron seems to be making its presence felt in India. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Till now, 422 cases of the new variant of coronavirus have been registered in India. These cases have come in 17 states and union territories so far. Around 130 of these patients have already recovered, as per union health ministry data, which was updated on Sunday. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-omicron-spreads-rapidly-france-records-over-100000-cases-in-24-hours-439995" hreflang="en">As Omicron spreads rapidly, France records over 100,000 cases in 24 hours</a>

This comes as several countries have been witnessing a massive rise in the number of coronavirus cases after the emergence of the new variant. Many countries have already taken numerous measures to contain the spread of this variant. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

The highest number of Omicron cases have come in Maharashtra, which are 108. Delhi has registered 79 cases, Gujarat 43, Telangana 41, Kerala 38, Tamil Nadu 34 and Karnataka 31. &nbsp;

Around 6,987 new Covid cases have come in a day. The total caseload of India has risen to 3,47,86,802, as per the data updated at 8 am. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-zero-covid-policy-will-not-work-says-scientist-who-warned-of-omicron-440021">China's zero-Covid policy will not work, says scientist who warned of Omicron</a>

With 162 new deaths, the toll has climbed to 4,79,682. For the last 59 days, the daily hike in coronavirus cases has stayed below 15,000. &nbsp;

The active Covid cases count has reached 76,766, the ministry said. In a short span of 24 hours, a reduction of 266 cases has been recorded in the active caseload. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

After tormenting numerous countries around the world, Omicron seems to be making its presence felt in India. Till now, 422 cases of the new variant of coronavirus have been registered in India.

After tormenting numerous countries around the world, Omicron seems to be making its presence felt in India. Till now, 422 cases of the new variant of coronavirus have been registered in India. These cases have come in 17 states and union territories so far. Around 130 of these patients have already recovered, as per union health ministry data, which was updated on Sunday. Also Read: As Omicron spreads rapidly, France records over 100,000 cases in 24 hours This comes as several countries have been witnessing a massive rise in the number of coronavirus cases after the emergence of the new variant. Many countries have already taken numerous measures to contain the spread of this variant. The highest number of Omicron cases have come in Maharashtra, which are 108. Delhi has registered 79 cases, Gujarat 43, Telangana 41, Kerala 38, Tamil Nadu 34 and Karnataka 31. Around 6,987 new Covid cases have come in a day. The total caseload of India has risen to 3,47,86,802, as per the data updated at 8 am. Also Read: China's zero-Covid policy will not work, says scientist who warned of Omicron With 162 new deaths, the toll has climbed to 4,79,682. For the last 59 days, the daily hike in coronavirus cases has stayed below 15,000. The active Covid cases count has reached 76,766, the ministry said. In a short span of 24 hours, a reduction of 266 cases has been recorded in the active caseload. (With inputs from agencies)

Omicron variant of coronavirus: 422 cases registered in India till now

India detected 415 cases of Omicron variant of Covid-19, out of which 115 have recovered or migrated, Union health ministry’s data updated on Saturday.

Maharashtra reported the maximum with 108 Omicron cases, followed by Delhi at 79, Gujarat (43), Telangana (38), Kerala (37), Tamil Nadu (34) and Karnataka (31).

Meanwhile, 7,189 new Covid cases were reported in the last 24 hours, taking the tally to 3,47,79,815, while the active cases have declined to 77,032, according to the data updated at 8 am.

The death toll climbed to 4,79,520 with 387 more fatalities, the data showed.

The daily rise in new coronavirus cases has been recorded below 15,000 for the last 58 days now.

The active cases have declined to 77,032 comprising 0.22 per cent of the total infections, the lowest since March 2020, while the national COVID-19 recovery rate was recorded at 98.40 per cent, the highest since March 2020, the health ministry said.

A decrease of 484 cases has been recorded in the active COVID-19 caseload in a span of 24 hours.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/iit-kanpur-study-tells-when-third-covid-19-wave-in-india-may-peak-439713">&nbsp;IIT-Kanpur study tells when third COVID-19 wave in India may peak</a>

The daily positivity rate was recorded at 0.65 per cent. It has been less than two per cent for the last 82 days.

On Friday, Union health secretary Rajesh Bhushan during a press conference had said that of 358 cases of Omicron reported till then, 183 were analysed and it was found that 87 of them were fully vaccinated with three having received booster doses while 70 per cent were asymptomatic.

As Omicron cases continue to gain a foothold in India, several states imposed fresh restrictions ahead of Christmas and New Year’s celebrations to curb the further spread of the virus.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/358-omicron-cases-in-india-says-govt-uttar-pradesh-state-imposes-night-curfew-439684">358 Omicron cases in India, says govt; Uttar Pradesh state imposes night curfew</a>

Six states imposed night curfew, assembly of more than five people in public places have been banned in two cities and the national capital Delhi banned all cultural events and social gatherings.

Maharashtra banned the assembly of more than five people in public places between 9 pm and 6 am and Uttar Pradesh and Haryana have imposed a night&nbsp;curfew— 11 pm to 5 am—from Saturday.

Madhya Pradesh government imposed similar mobility curbs and Odisha also imposed fresh restrictions on Friday on celebrations of Christmas and New Year’s Day, while Gujarat extended the duration of night&nbsp;curfew&nbsp;in eight cities by two hours.

(With inputs from agencies)

India detected 415 cases of Omicron variant of Covid-19, out of which 115 have recovered or migrated, Union health ministry’s data updated on Saturday. Maharashtra reported the maximum with 108 Omicron cases, followed by Delhi at 79, Gujarat (43), Telangana (38), Kerala (37), Tamil Nadu (34) and Karnataka (31).

India detected 415 cases of Omicron variant of Covid-19, out of which 115 have recovered or migrated, Union health ministry’s data updated on Saturday. Maharashtra reported the maximum with 108 Omicron cases, followed by Delhi at 79, Gujarat (43), Telangana (38), Kerala (37), Tamil Nadu (34) and Karnataka (31). Meanwhile, 7,189 new Covid cases were reported in the last 24 hours, taking the tally to 3,47,79,815, while the active cases have declined to 77,032, according to the data updated at 8 am. The death toll climbed to 4,79,520 with 387 more fatalities, the data showed. The daily rise in new coronavirus cases has been recorded below 15,000 for the last 58 days now. The active cases have declined to 77,032 comprising 0.22 per cent of the total infections, the lowest since March 2020, while the national COVID-19 recovery rate was recorded at 98.40 per cent, the highest since March 2020, the health ministry said. A decrease of 484 cases has been recorded in the active COVID-19 caseload in a span of 24 hours. Also read | IIT-Kanpur study tells when third COVID-19 wave in India may peak The daily positivity rate was recorded at 0.65 per cent. It has been less than two per cent for the last 82 days. On Friday, Union health secretary Rajesh Bhushan during a press conference had said that of 358 cases of Omicron reported till then, 183 were analysed and it was found that 87 of them were fully vaccinated with three having received booster doses while 70 per cent were asymptomatic. As Omicron cases continue to gain a foothold in India, several states imposed fresh restrictions ahead of Christmas and New Year’s celebrations to curb the further spread of the virus. Also read | 358 Omicron cases in India, says govt; Uttar Pradesh state imposes night curfew Six states imposed night curfew, assembly of more than five people in public places have been banned in two cities and the national capital Delhi banned all cultural events and social gatherings. Maharashtra banned the assembly of more than five people in public places between 9 pm and 6 am and Uttar Pradesh and Haryana have imposed a night curfew— 11 pm to 5 am—from Saturday. Madhya Pradesh government imposed similar mobility curbs and Odisha also imposed fresh restrictions on Friday on celebrations of Christmas and New Year’s Day, while Gujarat extended the duration of night curfew in eight cities by two hours. (With inputs from agencies)

415 Omicron cases detected in India, Maharashtra tops with 108 cases

In the highest single-day spike since June 13, Indian capital, Delhi, has registered 249 new Covid cases on Saturday. &nbsp;

One death was also reported. The positivity rate has increased to 0.43 per cent, as per data provided by the health department of the city. &nbsp;

This comes as several countries have been witnessing a massive rise in the number of coronavirus cases after the emergence of new variant, Omicron. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-omicron-variant-torments-healthcare-uk-looks-to-hire-foreign-workers-by-relaxing-visa-rules-439895" hreflang="en">As Omicron variant torments healthcare, UK looks to hire foreign workers by relaxing visa rules</a>

Around 180 cases were recorded on Friday. The positivity rate had also increased to 0.29 per cent at that time, said figures shared by the officials. &nbsp;

The death toll of the coronavirus has reached 25,104 in Delhi. &nbsp;

It is the highest rise since June 13 when around 255 cases had come with a positivity rate of 0.35 per cent. On that day, 23 deaths were also recorded. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/415-omicron-cases-detected-in-india-maharashtra-tops-with-108-cases-439780" hreflang="en">415 Omicron cases detected in India, Maharashtra tops with 108 cases</a>

On Saturday, the number of cumulative cases was 14,43,062. In Delhi, more than 14.17 lakh patients have recovered from coronavirus. &nbsp;

In December, six deaths have been reported till now. &nbsp;

A total of 57,295 tests, 52,444 RT-PCR tests and 4,851 rapid antigen tests, were conducted a day ago, as per the latest bulletin. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In the highest single-day spike since June 13, Indian capital, Delhi, has registered 249 new Covid cases on Saturday. One death was also reported. The positivity rate has increased to 0.

In the highest single-day spike since June 13, Indian capital, Delhi, has registered 249 new Covid cases on Saturday. One death was also reported. The positivity rate has increased to 0.43 per cent, as per data provided by the health department of the city. This comes as several countries have been witnessing a massive rise in the number of coronavirus cases after the emergence of new variant, Omicron. Also Read: As Omicron variant torments healthcare, UK looks to hire foreign workers by relaxing visa rules Around 180 cases were recorded on Friday. The positivity rate had also increased to 0.29 per cent at that time, said figures shared by the officials. The death toll of the coronavirus has reached 25,104 in Delhi. It is the highest rise since June 13 when around 255 cases had come with a positivity rate of 0.35 per cent. On that day, 23 deaths were also recorded. Also Read: 415 Omicron cases detected in India, Maharashtra tops with 108 cases On Saturday, the number of cumulative cases was 14,43,062. In Delhi, more than 14.17 lakh patients have recovered from coronavirus. In December, six deaths have been reported till now. A total of 57,295 tests, 52,444 RT-PCR tests and 4,851 rapid antigen tests, were conducted a day ago, as per the latest bulletin. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian capital registers 249 new Covid cases, witnesses biggest single-day spike since June 13

India and Russia have exchanged "non-paper" on how to increase engagement in central Asia, which has five&nbsp;countries, including Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan.

The five&nbsp;countries once formed part of the Soviet Union and Russia&nbsp;has a huge influence on them.&nbsp;The non-paper or white paper is a document that doesn't carry a governmental seal but aims to highlight key features of discussions.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-modi-putin-summit-india-russia-hail-strategic-partnership-434655">Also see |&nbsp;In Pics | Modi-Putin summit: India, Russia hail strategic partnership</a>

The non-paper has pointed at several areas of engagement, one of which is defense as India aims to become a supplier of arms in that part of the world. These central Asian countries use Russian defense equipment and India can provide parts that are made in the country.

More practical areas have been listed to increase joint Indo-Russian engagement in the region which has seen the Chinese making inroads, especially causing debt crisis.&nbsp;

While Russian President Putin in his recent year-ending annual press conference mentioned China many times, even saying he has a "very trusting personal relationship" with Chinese President Xi Jinping, it's unlikely Moscow is giving a blank cheque to Beijing, from the regional presence or other geopolitical aspects. China under the Jinping regime, in its dealings with countries, either treats them as junior partners or adversaries.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-russia-sign-pact-for-ak-203-rifles-renew-military-cooperation-for-10-years-434504">Also read |&nbsp;India, Russia sign pact for AK-203 rifles, renew military cooperation for 10-years</a>

The exchange of non-paper comes even has Russia has invited increased Indian engagement in the Far East, especially in terms of Indian manpower.

&nbsp;As Russia develops its far east, its preferred partner has been India, rather than neighboring China. The area borders China and is rich in resources. Plans are underway to connect Vladivostok with Chennai, a key outcome of PM Modi's 2018 visit to the city for the annual India-Russia summit.

India has increased its engagement with central Asia with which it shares civilizational ties. Indian Prime Minister had visited all the central Asian countries in 2015 in one go.&nbsp;

In a first, India has invited all the leaders of 5 central Asian countries for the Republic day in January of 2022. It's after 2018 such a large grouping of leaders has been invited for the grand parade in the heart of Delhi. That year saw all 10 countries of the ASEAN block being invited as guest.

The occasion will see the first India-Central Asia summit as both sides celebrate the 30th anniversary of the establishment of their diplomatic ties. Earlier this month third India Central Asia foreign ministers meeting took place in Delhi as External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar hosted all 5 of his counterparts.&nbsp; The key focus during the meet was on Afghanistan, the Covid crisis, and connectivity.

India and Russia have exchanged "non-paper" on how to increase engagement in central Asia, which has five countries, including Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan.

India and Russia have exchanged "non-paper" on how to increase engagement in central Asia, which has five countries, including Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan. The five countries once formed part of the Soviet Union and Russia has a huge influence on them. The non-paper or white paper is a document that doesn't carry a governmental seal but aims to highlight key features of discussions. Also see | In Pics | Modi-Putin summit: India, Russia hail strategic partnership The non-paper has pointed at several areas of engagement, one of which is defense as India aims to become a supplier of arms in that part of the world. These central Asian countries use Russian defense equipment and India can provide parts that are made in the country. More practical areas have been listed to increase joint Indo-Russian engagement in the region which has seen the Chinese making inroads, especially causing debt crisis. While Russian President Putin in his recent year-ending annual press conference mentioned China many times, even saying he has a "very trusting personal relationship" with Chinese President Xi Jinping, it's unlikely Moscow is giving a blank cheque to Beijing, from the regional presence or other geopolitical aspects. China under the Jinping regime, in its dealings with countries, either treats them as junior partners or adversaries. Also read | India, Russia sign pact for AK-203 rifles, renew military cooperation for 10-years The exchange of non-paper comes even has Russia has invited increased Indian engagement in the Far East, especially in terms of Indian manpower. As Russia develops its far east, its preferred partner has been India, rather than neighboring China. The area borders China and is rich in resources. Plans are underway to connect Vladivostok with Chennai, a key outcome of PM Modi's 2018 visit to the city for the annual India-Russia summit. India has increased its engagement with central Asia with which it shares civilizational ties. Indian Prime Minister had visited all the central Asian countries in 2015 in one go. In a first, India has invited all the leaders of 5 central Asian countries for the Republic day in January of 2022. It's after 2018 such a large grouping of leaders has been invited for the grand parade in the heart of Delhi. That year saw all 10 countries of the ASEAN block being invited as guest. The occasion will see the first India-Central Asia summit as both sides celebrate the 30th anniversary of the establishment of their diplomatic ties. Earlier this month third India Central Asia foreign ministers meeting took place in Delhi as External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar hosted all 5 of his counterparts. The key focus during the meet was on Afghanistan, the Covid crisis, and connectivity.

India, Russia exchange 'non-paper' on engagement in Central Asia

What if a member of your WhatsApp group posts something controversial or inflammatory? Are you, (as admin) liable to face action? In this case, a lawyer himself (as WhatsApp group admin) seems to have landed in trouble over a controversial post in his group and had to approach a high court in India. &nbsp;

The petitioner is Rajendran, a lawyer based out of Karur, Tamil Nadu state in India. He is also the creator and administrator of a WhatsApp group known as 'Karur lawyers'. &nbsp;

Owing to a controversial post that was shared by a group member (that could create enmity between two communities), police took action and filed a case and also included the WhatsApp group admin. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/central-govt-dispatches-special-team-to-10-states-with-high-active-cases-and-low-vaccination-rate-439821" hreflang="en">Central govt dispatches special team to 10 states with high active cases and low vaccination rate</a>

However, the group admin, who is also an advocate, approached the Madurai bench of the Madras High Court claiming that he removed the said person, (who made the inflammatory post) from the group and hence, the police shouldn't act against him (group admin). &nbsp;

Hearing the case, Justice GR Swaminathan observed that it was the responsibility of the group admin to regulate or monitor what the members post. However, the judge also added that it was not the duty of the admin to edit, audit or change the contents of what the group members post. &nbsp;&nbsp;

He also cited a Bombay High Court judgement, which stated that the admin could not be held responsible for a group member's (controversial or inflammatory) post. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pilot-killed-in-iafs-mig-21-plane-crash-in-indias-jaisalmer-439746" hreflang="en">Pilot killed in IAF's MiG-21 plane crash in India's Jaisalmer</a>

The judge also said that it would be too early to comment on this specific case, as the forensic report of the digital conversation was yet to be presented. &nbsp;

However, the judge opined that, if the petitioner (group admin) was ascertained to be just the admin (and not connected to the controversial post), his name could be left out of the police case. &nbsp;

The judge also warned that if there was enough evidence of the admin's involvement in the said controversial post, the group admin would also have to face the consequences.&nbsp;

What if a member of your WhatsApp group posts something controversial or inflammatory? Are you, (as admin) liable to face action? In this case, a lawyer himself (as WhatsApp group admin) seems to have landed in trouble over a controversial post in his group and had to approach a high court in India.

What if a member of your WhatsApp group posts something controversial or inflammatory? Are you, (as admin) liable to face action? In this case, a lawyer himself (as WhatsApp group admin) seems to have landed in trouble over a controversial post in his group and had to approach a high court in India. The petitioner is Rajendran, a lawyer based out of Karur, Tamil Nadu state in India. He is also the creator and administrator of a WhatsApp group known as 'Karur lawyers'. Owing to a controversial post that was shared by a group member (that could create enmity between two communities), police took action and filed a case and also included the WhatsApp group admin. Also Read: Central govt dispatches special team to 10 states with high active cases and low vaccination rate However, the group admin, who is also an advocate, approached the Madurai bench of the Madras High Court claiming that he removed the said person, (who made the inflammatory post) from the group and hence, the police shouldn't act against him (group admin). Hearing the case, Justice GR Swaminathan observed that it was the responsibility of the group admin to regulate or monitor what the members post. However, the judge also added that it was not the duty of the admin to edit, audit or change the contents of what the group members post. He also cited a Bombay High Court judgement, which stated that the admin could not be held responsible for a group member's (controversial or inflammatory) post. Also Read: Pilot killed in IAF's MiG-21 plane crash in India's Jaisalmer The judge also said that it would be too early to comment on this specific case, as the forensic report of the digital conversation was yet to be presented. However, the judge opined that, if the petitioner (group admin) was ascertained to be just the admin (and not connected to the controversial post), his name could be left out of the police case. The judge also warned that if there was enough evidence of the admin's involvement in the said controversial post, the group admin would also have to face the consequences.

WhatsApp group admin moves Indian HC over post by member; here's what court said

Christmas decorations hanging on the Christmas trees on the occasion of Christmas. Walls and ceilings of homes and offices are also decorated. But we know as to where these Christmas balls and other paraphernalia related to Christmas is actually made.

Kashmir's Christmas Art Wows Customers

As Omicron cases continue to spread across Indian states, the central government has decided to send a multi-disciplinary team to 10 states which are reporting an increasing number of COVID-19 cases or low vaccination rates.

The central government will be deploying teams to Uttar Pradesh, Kerala, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Mizoram, Karnataka, Bihar, Jharkhand, and Punjab.

“A decision has been taken to deploy multi-disciplinary central teams to 10 identified states, some of which are either reporting an increasing number of Omicron and COVID-19 cases or slow vaccination pace,” the Union health ministry said in a statement.

The decision to send a special team&nbsp;comes a day after Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a meeting with various officials to assess the Covid situation in the country.

In the meeting, he directed the officials to be “alert and attentive” in view of the fast-spreading Omicron variant.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/415-omicron-cases-detected-in-india-maharashtra-tops-with-108-cases-439780">415 Omicron cases detected in India, Maharashtra tops with 108 cases</a>

After a presentation by the health ministry, he directed the authorities to ensure heightened and close monitoring of emerging hotspots through effective surveillance of cases.

“The fight against the pandemic is not over, he (the Prime Minister) said, and the need for continued adherence to Covid safe behaviour is of paramount importance even today,” the Prime Minister’s Office said in a statement.

He reviewed the status of public health response measures for containment and management of the virus cases, and also took note on the strengthening of health infrastructure including the availability of drugs, oxygen cylinders and concentrators.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/iit-kanpur-study-tells-when-third-covid-19-wave-in-india-may-peak-439713">&nbsp;IIT-Kanpur study tells when third COVID-19 wave in India may peak</a>

The government has been on alert as India detected 415 cases of the Omicron variant.

The highest number of Omicron cases has been reported in Maharashtra (108), followed by Delhi (79), Gujarat (43), Telangana (38), Kerala (37), Tamil Nadu (34) and Karnataka (31).

(With inputs from agencies)

As Omicron cases continue to spread across Indian states, the central government has decided to send a multi-disciplinary team to 10 states which are reporting an increasing number of COVID-19 cases or low vaccination rates.

As Omicron cases continue to spread across Indian states, the central government has decided to send a multi-disciplinary team to 10 states which are reporting an increasing number of COVID-19 cases or low vaccination rates. The central government will be deploying teams to Uttar Pradesh, Kerala, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Mizoram, Karnataka, Bihar, Jharkhand, and Punjab. “A decision has been taken to deploy multi-disciplinary central teams to 10 identified states, some of which are either reporting an increasing number of Omicron and COVID-19 cases or slow vaccination pace,” the Union health ministry said in a statement. The decision to send a special team comes a day after Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a meeting with various officials to assess the Covid situation in the country. In the meeting, he directed the officials to be “alert and attentive” in view of the fast-spreading Omicron variant. Also read | 415 Omicron cases detected in India, Maharashtra tops with 108 cases After a presentation by the health ministry, he directed the authorities to ensure heightened and close monitoring of emerging hotspots through effective surveillance of cases. “The fight against the pandemic is not over, he (the Prime Minister) said, and the need for continued adherence to Covid safe behaviour is of paramount importance even today,” the Prime Minister’s Office said in a statement. He reviewed the status of public health response measures for containment and management of the virus cases, and also took note on the strengthening of health infrastructure including the availability of drugs, oxygen cylinders and concentrators. Also read | IIT-Kanpur study tells when third COVID-19 wave in India may peak The government has been on alert as India detected 415 cases of the Omicron variant. The highest number of Omicron cases has been reported in Maharashtra (108), followed by Delhi (79), Gujarat (43), Telangana (38), Kerala (37), Tamil Nadu (34) and Karnataka (31). (With inputs from agencies)

Central govt dispatches special team to 10 states with high active cases and low vaccination rate

Amid the rise in Omicron cases in the country, India's Uttar Pradesh state imposed night curfew on Christmas.

The night curfew in India's northern state will be imposed from December 25 from 11pm to 5am, authorities said.

India's health ministry informed that there are 358 Omicron cases reported so far in the country as Union health secretary Rajesh Bhushan asserted that the country cannot let its guard down with the world witnessing the fourth wave of the virus.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-covid-19-surge-us-drops-personal-interviews-for-h-1b-l-1-visas-for-now-439550">Also Read:&nbsp;Amid COVID-19 surge, US drops personal interviews for H-1B, L-1 Visas for now</a>

The health secretary said that the top five states with the highest number of active COVID-19 cases were Kerala, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal and Karnataka.

Bhushan added that Omicron variant cases has been doubling every 1.5 to 3 days and has been "spreading fast". The health secretary informed that Omicron cases have now spread to 17 states in the country.

The Union health secretary said the health ministry has advised states to impose night curfew and to regulate large gatherings including taking steps to increase bed capacity in hospitals amid a rise in Omicron cases.

Meanwhile, India's capital reported 180 new COVID-19 cases in the last 24 hours as Mumbai reported 683 new coronavirus cases and one death.

After the Uttar Pradesh government imposed night curfew, the Odisha government in eastern India imposed restrictions on Christmas and New Year celebrations. The local government has disallowed celebrations in hotels and restaurants until January 2 including a ban on social gathering.

Reports say the Gujarat government has also decided to impose night curfew in Ahmedabad, Gandhinagar, Rajkot and other towns.

(With inputs from Agencies)

Amid the rise in Omicron cases in the country, India's Uttar Pradesh state imposed night curfew on Christmas. The night curfew in India's northern state will be imposed from December 25 from 11pm to 5am, authorities said.

Amid the rise in Omicron cases in the country, India's Uttar Pradesh state imposed night curfew on Christmas. The night curfew in India's northern state will be imposed from December 25 from 11pm to 5am, authorities said. India's health ministry informed that there are 358 Omicron cases reported so far in the country as Union health secretary Rajesh Bhushan asserted that the country cannot let its guard down with the world witnessing the fourth wave of the virus. Also Read: Amid COVID-19 surge, US drops personal interviews for H-1B, L-1 Visas for now The health secretary said that the top five states with the highest number of active COVID-19 cases were Kerala, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal and Karnataka. Bhushan added that Omicron variant cases has been doubling every 1.5 to 3 days and has been "spreading fast". The health secretary informed that Omicron cases have now spread to 17 states in the country. The Union health secretary said the health ministry has advised states to impose night curfew and to regulate large gatherings including taking steps to increase bed capacity in hospitals amid a rise in Omicron cases. Meanwhile, India's capital reported 180 new COVID-19 cases in the last 24 hours as Mumbai reported 683 new coronavirus cases and one death. After the Uttar Pradesh government imposed night curfew, the Odisha government in eastern India imposed restrictions on Christmas and New Year celebrations. The local government has disallowed celebrations in hotels and restaurants until January 2 including a ban on social gathering. Reports say the Gujarat government has also decided to impose night curfew in Ahmedabad, Gandhinagar, Rajkot and other towns. (With inputs from Agencies)

358 Omicron cases in India, says govt; Uttar Pradesh state imposes night curfew

Like a dream! India's Kashmir Valley wrapped in blanket of snow, pics are mesmerising

During a training sortie, a MiG-21 plane of the Indian Air Force has crashed in the state of Rajasthan on Friday night. The pilot, who was identified as Wing Commander Harshit Sinha, was killed in the mishap, which occurred in Jaisalmer, the Indian Air Force (IAF) said. &nbsp;

The aircraft went down in the Desert National Park area, which comes under the Sam police station. Police have reached the spot, Jaisalmer SP Ajay Singh told PTI. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/iit-kanpur-study-tells-when-third-covid-19-wave-in-india-may-peak-439713" hreflang="en">IIT-Kanpur study tells when third COVID-19 wave in India may peak</a>

On Twitter, the IAF, said, "This evening, around 8.30 pm, a MiG-21 aircraft of IAF met with a flying accident in the western sector during a training sortie. An inquiry is being ordered." &nbsp;

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This evening, around 8:30 pm, a MiG-21 aircraft of IAF met with a flying accident in the western sector during a training sortie. Further details are awaited. 
An inquiry is being ordered.
— Indian Air Force (@IAF_MCC) <a href="https://twitter.com/IAF_MCC/status/1474417251658846213?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 24, 2021</a></blockquote>
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"With deep sorrow, IAF conveys the sad demise of Wing Commander Harshit Sinha in the flying accident this evening and stands firmly with the family of the braveheart," it stated. &nbsp;

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With deep sorrow, IAF conveys the sad demise of Wing Commander Harshit Sinha in the flying accident this evening and stands firmly with the family of the braveheart.
— Indian Air Force (@IAF_MCC) <a href="https://twitter.com/IAF_MCC/status/1474428484076269569?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 24, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The plane crashed in sand dunes near Sudasari, said Sam police station SHO Dalpat Singh. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-us-22-foreign-defence-ministers-meet-to-take-place-in-3rd-week-of-january-439716" hreflang="en">India, US 2+2 foreign &amp; defence ministers meet to take place in 3rd week of January</a>

According to an eyewitness, the plane burst into flames before hitting the ground. The eyewitness lives in a hamlet near the Desert National Park. &nbsp;

Jaisalmer Superintendent of Police Ajay Singh and collector Ashish Modi have reached the spot. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

During a training sortie, a MiG-21 plane of the Indian Air Force has crashed in the state of Rajasthan on Friday night. The pilot, who was identified as Wing Commander Harshit Sinha, was killed in the mishap, which occurred in Jaisalmer, the Indian Air Force (IAF) said.

During a training sortie, a MiG-21 plane of the Indian Air Force has crashed in the state of Rajasthan on Friday night. The pilot, who was identified as Wing Commander Harshit Sinha, was killed in the mishap, which occurred in Jaisalmer, the Indian Air Force (IAF) said. The aircraft went down in the Desert National Park area, which comes under the Sam police station. Police have reached the spot, Jaisalmer SP Ajay Singh told PTI. Also Read: IIT-Kanpur study tells when third COVID-19 wave in India may peak On Twitter, the IAF, said, "This evening, around 8.30 pm, a MiG-21 aircraft of IAF met with a flying accident in the western sector during a training sortie. An inquiry is being ordered." This evening, around 8:30 pm, a MiG-21 aircraft of IAF met with a flying accident in the western sector during a training sortie. Further details are awaited. An inquiry is being ordered. — Indian Air Force (@IAF_MCC) December 24, 2021 × "With deep sorrow, IAF conveys the sad demise of Wing Commander Harshit Sinha in the flying accident this evening and stands firmly with the family of the braveheart," it stated. With deep sorrow, IAF conveys the sad demise of Wing Commander Harshit Sinha in the flying accident this evening and stands firmly with the family of the braveheart. — Indian Air Force (@IAF_MCC) December 24, 2021 × The plane crashed in sand dunes near Sudasari, said Sam police station SHO Dalpat Singh. Also Read: India, US 2+2 foreign & defence ministers meet to take place in 3rd week of January According to an eyewitness, the plane burst into flames before hitting the ground. The eyewitness lives in a hamlet near the Desert National Park. Jaisalmer Superintendent of Police Ajay Singh and collector Ashish Modi have reached the spot. (With inputs from agencies)

Pilot killed in IAF's MiG-21 plane crash in India's Jaisalmer

Belarus envoy to India Andrei Rzheussky has dismissed allegations that his country pushed migrants towards Poland and Lithuania saying "we did not provoke this crisis". &nbsp;&nbsp;

The migrant crisis at the border between Belarus on one side and Poland and three Baltic countries Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia on the other side has seen influx of thousands of migrants, most from countries like Iraq. The development has further worsened the already troubled ties between Minsk and its western neighbours. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Envoy Andrei Rzheussky, said, "Belarus as a transit country was on the way to western world...We did not provoke this crisis because people were trying to get better life in western countries". &nbsp;&nbsp;

Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights has called on to end ‘appalling’ Belarus-Poland border crisis. &nbsp;

The envoy also said "a lot of misunderstanding happened especially with neighbouring countries" due to the "presidential elections..which were not recognised" but "it's a decision of our country and we are trying to convince them that sanctions and coercive measures taken towards Belarus is not right approach". &nbsp;&nbsp;

Sanctions have been imposed by the EU on Belarus due to "continued repression of civil society, democratic opposition, independent media outlets and journalists," EU said in a statement earlier this month. The December announcement of sanctions by the EU is the fifth package of sanctions against the country. &nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;

Sidhant Sibal:&nbsp;What has happened at the border between your country and countries like Poland and Lithuania. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Andrei Rzheussky: There has been a lot of speculation from Poland, Lithuania and other countries. First of all, we did not provoke this crisis, we also suffered from what happened on our border. Lot of people were trying to flee war, economic crisis in their own countries. They were headed to the western countries in the search for a better life. Belarus was just a transit country on the way to western world. Numerous people gathered on the border between Belarus and its neighbouring countries, such as Poland, Lithuania and Latvia. We did our best to help the people when Poland, Lithuania and Latvia pushed them away. We provided temporary shelter to migrants along with food. Truely speaking, the problem is with western countries, primary Poland and Lithuania did not fulfil obligations under refugee convention of 1951 as they did not allow migrants to cross over to their country. So, the crisis happened. We could not convince western countries to full obligations. A lot of things happened on the border. Poland used force in the form of water cannons against the people. Several people, including reporters suffered a lot at the border. &nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Sidhant Sibal:&nbsp;Has this situation occurred in past? Are you in conversation with neighbours to solve this issue? &nbsp;

Andrei Rzheussky: From the beginning, we tried to apprise Poland and Lithuania about the situation. We said that it is necessary to sit on the table and find a solution. But unfortunately, we did not get any reply from these countries. It is not the right kind of approach taken by these countries. Before the middle of this year, there was huge cooperation on borders, a lot of projects were going on with western countries like Poland and Lithuania. There were joint programmes on how to prevent illegal immigration. But unfortunately, this programme was shut down and Belarus alone cannot stop the flow. &nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;

Sidhant Sibal:&nbsp;How did these migrants end up in Belarus. West has been saying migrants are being pushed by your country because of the sanctions that have been imposed on your government. &nbsp;

Andrei Rzheussky: At this moment, we are trying to convince people to return to home countries, some of them agreed for that. As I know some aircrafts have left for countries like Iraq and Syria. As I know, 600-700 people are in temporary camps on the border raised by our government. They are still thinking whether to stay in Belarus or return to home country. All requests for asylum in Belarus will also be considered in a proper way. But majority of the people would like to go to western countries or stay in Belarus. &nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;

Sidhant Sibal:&nbsp;So, you dismiss the allegations of weaponisation of migrants? &nbsp;&nbsp;

Andrei Rzheussky: This is an absolute lie. Migrants always want to go to the western countries. The flow through to Belarus is quite less compared to through Italy or any other country. The migrant flow has been constant but we managed to control it by making joint efforts along with western countries who participated in this programme. At the moment, programme has stopped and we cannot do anything to stop people. So, the crisis happened. &nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp; &nbsp;

Sidhant Sibal:&nbsp;In London, one of your diplomats has been attacked. &nbsp;

Andrei Rzheussky: As I know from official information, on December 19, the wall of our embassy building was damaged when two diplomats had arrived. In the incident, a diplomat was seriously injured. The person suffered broken nose. Police have arrested the person, who injured our diplomat. The accused was a member of an immigrants' group. As far as I know, CdA of British Embassy in Minsk was called to foreign ministry and a note of protest was given to him with a request to find out what happened and take proper action against the culprits. A criminal case has been registered and investigation is underway. &nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;

Sidhant Sibal:&nbsp;But it seems Belarus and its neighbours are heading towards a difficult situation. How can this be solved? &nbsp;

Andrei Rzheussky: Look, Belarus is a peaceful country and we always conducted ourselves in this way. We have always suggested diplomatic solution for every dispute. It is not our fault as a lot of misunderstanding happened from neighbouring countries. The main reason of this is that results of the presidential elections were not recognised by our neighbouring countries as well as many western nations. But this decision was important for our nation. A result is a result and 80% votes were won by our president and its official. We have been trying to convince them that sanctions and coercive measures taken towards Belarus is not the right approach. Sanctions are a deadlock and will never give any positive result. Western countries have imposed sanctions against Belarus government due to which our people are suffering. It's a reality of life. We are trying to act wisely and not react to sanctions but we cannot ignore everything. &nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;

Sidhant Sibal:&nbsp;What is the situation in your country over talks of referendum on the constitution, political prisoners, opposition leaving the country, etc. Is your country moving towards authoritarian rule? &nbsp;

Andrei Rzheussky: If you are talking about constitutional reforms, in February, Belorussian assembly decided that it is necessary to come up with constitutional reforms. Our president has announced it. A special constitutional commission was created. Around 77 articles have been changed along with preamble. Lot of challenges have happened. Two days ago, it was announced. Towards the beginning of this year, project will be published for decision. At the end of February, it will be put up for referendum. &nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;

Sidhant Sibal:&nbsp;The West is saying that you are moving towards authoritarianism. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Andrei Rzheussky: Look, my advice is to come to Belarus and you will see it with your own eyes if there is freedom or not. We are free, absolute free. We have our own foreign policy, which is independent. Maybe it's against the plans of western countries. Due to our policy by our president, people are moving in direction where we want to go. &nbsp; &nbsp;

&nbsp;

Sidhant Sibal:&nbsp;Have you briefed India about the border situation? &nbsp;

Andrei Rzheussky: We have sent three press releases to all mediapersons, who were in contact with, think tank including Ministry of external affairs. We briefed in November and December. &nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;

Sidhant Sibal:&nbsp;How do you see India-Belarus ties? &nbsp;

Andrei Rzheussky: We consider India as a strategic partner in this region. Our government took decision to open additional representation here, CG in Mumbai. The decision was taken in summer. We have almost open our consul general in Mumbai. We are in process of consultations and will open in new year and enhance our activity in India. We have two honorary consular generals, one in Mumbai and other in Kolkata. We have strong relations with India and have a long history since 1947. We have always supported you. We established embassy in 1992 and have good ties at every level. Our president visited India three times--1997, 2007 and 2017 and your President Mukherjee visited Belarus in 2015. Our PM visited India three times. We are working to organise visit of PM Modi to Belarus, something we are trying to do for a couple of years and I hope next year, we will manage to do this. We have projects in mining. In last 3 years, we supplied mining trucks to India. There are huge projects in oil industry. We have helped you to extract more oil from old oil drills. The project was successful. Last project had finished this year. There is cooperation in the field of culture as we gave our premises to shoot an Indian movie Squad that featured on Netflix. We have a huge facility. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Belarus envoy to India Andrei Rzheussky has dismissed allegations that his country pushed migrants towards Poland and Lithuania saying "we did not provoke this crisis".

Belarus envoy to India Andrei Rzheussky has dismissed allegations that his country pushed migrants towards Poland and Lithuania saying "we did not provoke this crisis". The migrant crisis at the border between Belarus on one side and Poland and three Baltic countries Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia on the other side has seen influx of thousands of migrants, most from countries like Iraq. The development has further worsened the already troubled ties between Minsk and its western neighbours. Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Envoy Andrei Rzheussky, said, "Belarus as a transit country was on the way to western world...We did not provoke this crisis because people were trying to get better life in western countries". Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights has called on to end ‘appalling’ Belarus-Poland border crisis. The envoy also said "a lot of misunderstanding happened especially with neighbouring countries" due to the "presidential elections..which were not recognised" but "it's a decision of our country and we are trying to convince them that sanctions and coercive measures taken towards Belarus is not right approach". Sanctions have been imposed by the EU on Belarus due to "continued repression of civil society, democratic opposition, independent media outlets and journalists," EU said in a statement earlier this month. The December announcement of sanctions by the EU is the fifth package of sanctions against the country. Sidhant Sibal: What has happened at the border between your country and countries like Poland and Lithuania. Andrei Rzheussky: There has been a lot of speculation from Poland, Lithuania and other countries. First of all, we did not provoke this crisis, we also suffered from what happened on our border. Lot of people were trying to flee war, economic crisis in their own countries. They were headed to the western countries in the search for a better life. Belarus was just a transit country on the way to western world. Numerous people gathered on the border between Belarus and its neighbouring countries, such as Poland, Lithuania and Latvia. We did our best to help the people when Poland, Lithuania and Latvia pushed them away. We provided temporary shelter to migrants along with food. Truely speaking, the problem is with western countries, primary Poland and Lithuania did not fulfil obligations under refugee convention of 1951 as they did not allow migrants to cross over to their country. So, the crisis happened. We could not convince western countries to full obligations. A lot of things happened on the border. Poland used force in the form of water cannons against the people. Several people, including reporters suffered a lot at the border. Sidhant Sibal: Has this situation occurred in past? Are you in conversation with neighbours to solve this issue? Andrei Rzheussky: From the beginning, we tried to apprise Poland and Lithuania about the situation. We said that it is necessary to sit on the table and find a solution. But unfortunately, we did not get any reply from these countries. It is not the right kind of approach taken by these countries. Before the middle of this year, there was huge cooperation on borders, a lot of projects were going on with western countries like Poland and Lithuania. There were joint programmes on how to prevent illegal immigration. But unfortunately, this programme was shut down and Belarus alone cannot stop the flow. Sidhant Sibal: How did these migrants end up in Belarus. West has been saying migrants are being pushed by your country because of the sanctions that have been imposed on your government. Andrei Rzheussky: At this moment, we are trying to convince people to return to home countries, some of them agreed for that. As I know some aircrafts have left for countries like Iraq and Syria. As I know, 600-700 people are in temporary camps on the border raised by our government. They are still thinking whether to stay in Belarus or return to home country. All requests for asylum in Belarus will also be considered in a proper way. But majority of the people would like to go to western countries or stay in Belarus. Sidhant Sibal: So, you dismiss the allegations of weaponisation of migrants? Andrei Rzheussky: This is an absolute lie. Migrants always want to go to the western countries. The flow through to Belarus is quite less compared to through Italy or any other country. The migrant flow has been constant but we managed to control it by making joint efforts along with western countries who participated in this programme. At the moment, programme has stopped and we cannot do anything to stop people. So, the crisis happened. Sidhant Sibal: In London, one of your diplomats has been attacked. Andrei Rzheussky: As I know from official information, on December 19, the wall of our embassy building was damaged when two diplomats had arrived. In the incident, a diplomat was seriously injured. The person suffered broken nose. Police have arrested the person, who injured our diplomat. The accused was a member of an immigrants' group. As far as I know, CdA of British Embassy in Minsk was called to foreign ministry and a note of protest was given to him with a request to find out what happened and take proper action against the culprits. A criminal case has been registered and investigation is underway. Sidhant Sibal: But it seems Belarus and its neighbours are heading towards a difficult situation. How can this be solved? Andrei Rzheussky: Look, Belarus is a peaceful country and we always conducted ourselves in this way. We have always suggested diplomatic solution for every dispute. It is not our fault as a lot of misunderstanding happened from neighbouring countries. The main reason of this is that results of the presidential elections were not recognised by our neighbouring countries as well as many western nations. But this decision was important for our nation. A result is a result and 80% votes were won by our president and its official. We have been trying to convince them that sanctions and coercive measures taken towards Belarus is not the right approach. Sanctions are a deadlock and will never give any positive result. Western countries have imposed sanctions against Belarus government due to which our people are suffering. It's a reality of life. We are trying to act wisely and not react to sanctions but we cannot ignore everything. Sidhant Sibal: What is the situation in your country over talks of referendum on the constitution, political prisoners, opposition leaving the country, etc. Is your country moving towards authoritarian rule? Andrei Rzheussky: If you are talking about constitutional reforms, in February, Belorussian assembly decided that it is necessary to come up with constitutional reforms. Our president has announced it. A special constitutional commission was created. Around 77 articles have been changed along with preamble. Lot of challenges have happened. Two days ago, it was announced. Towards the beginning of this year, project will be published for decision. At the end of February, it will be put up for referendum. Sidhant Sibal: The West is saying that you are moving towards authoritarianism. Andrei Rzheussky: Look, my advice is to come to Belarus and you will see it with your own eyes if there is freedom or not. We are free, absolute free. We have our own foreign policy, which is independent. Maybe it's against the plans of western countries. Due to our policy by our president, people are moving in direction where we want to go. Sidhant Sibal: Have you briefed India about the border situation? Andrei Rzheussky: We have sent three press releases to all mediapersons, who were in contact with, think tank including Ministry of external affairs. We briefed in November and December. Sidhant Sibal: How do you see India-Belarus ties? Andrei Rzheussky: We consider India as a strategic partner in this region. Our government took decision to open additional representation here, CG in Mumbai. The decision was taken in summer. We have almost open our consul general in Mumbai. We are in process of consultations and will open in new year and enhance our activity in India. We have two honorary consular generals, one in Mumbai and other in Kolkata. We have strong relations with India and have a long history since 1947. We have always supported you. We established embassy in 1992 and have good ties at every level. Our president visited India three times--1997, 2007 and 2017 and your President Mukherjee visited Belarus in 2015. Our PM visited India three times. We are working to organise visit of PM Modi to Belarus, something we are trying to do for a couple of years and I hope next year, we will manage to do this. We have projects in mining. In last 3 years, we supplied mining trucks to India. There are huge projects in oil industry. We have helped you to extract more oil from old oil drills. The project was successful. Last project had finished this year. There is cooperation in the field of culture as we gave our premises to shoot an Indian movie Squad that featured on Netflix. We have a huge facility.

Belarus envoy dismisses allegations of migrants being pushed into EU

&nbsp;The annual India, US 2+2 meet at foreign and defense ministers' level will take place in the third week of January in Washington. &nbsp;India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar and defence minister Rajnath Singh will travel to Washington for the meeting.

It is the&nbsp;fourth round of dialogue that is taking place which alternates between New Delhi and Washington. Three rounds of dialogue have taken place between the two sides so far in September 2018, December 2019 and in October 2020. The dialogue this year was proposed in the first week of December but could not materialise.

The 2+2 meet is an annual mechanism at the foreign and defence minister's&nbsp;level between India and the US meant to discuss bilateral ties in defence, strategic and security domains.

The inaugural India-US ministerial 2+2 dialogue was held on September 6, 2018 in New Delhi in which the then US secretary of state Michael R. Pompeo and secretary of defence James N. Mattis had visited India to hold dialogue with EAM late Sushma Swaraj and former defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman.

India has 2+2 mechanisms at the foreign and defence ministers' level with four countries - US, Japan, Australia and Russia. &nbsp;Russia is the only non-Quad member with which India has this mechanism.

The maiden Indo-Russia 2+2 meet had taken place&nbsp;in New Delhi on December 6, the day that saw Russian President Putin visiting India for the annual India-Russia summit.

The dialogue took place in the backdrop of India getting deliveries of the S-400 missile defence system from Russia which can attract US CAATSA (Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act) sanctions.

However, it depends on the US Congress on whether there will be a waiver for India. This year&nbsp;saw Indian PM Modi visiting the US for the first in-person Quad summit which involves&nbsp;India, US, Australia and Japan. The relationship&nbsp;between India and US has&nbsp;increased steadily and become broad-based even as India-Russia ties while being traditional&nbsp;has&nbsp;seen defense and space being the only two&nbsp;key focus areas.

The annual India, US 2+2 meet at foreign and defense ministers' level will take place in the third week of January in Washington. India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar and defence minister Rajnath Singh will travel to Washington for the meeting.

The annual India, US 2+2 meet at foreign and defense ministers' level will take place in the third week of January in Washington. India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar and defence minister Rajnath Singh will travel to Washington for the meeting. It is the fourth round of dialogue that is taking place which alternates between New Delhi and Washington. Three rounds of dialogue have taken place between the two sides so far in September 2018, December 2019 and in October 2020. The dialogue this year was proposed in the first week of December but could not materialise. The 2+2 meet is an annual mechanism at the foreign and defence minister's level between India and the US meant to discuss bilateral ties in defence, strategic and security domains. The inaugural India-US ministerial 2+2 dialogue was held on September 6, 2018 in New Delhi in which the then US secretary of state Michael R. Pompeo and secretary of defence James N. Mattis had visited India to hold dialogue with EAM late Sushma Swaraj and former defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman. India has 2+2 mechanisms at the foreign and defence ministers' level with four countries - US, Japan, Australia and Russia. Russia is the only non-Quad member with which India has this mechanism. The maiden Indo-Russia 2+2 meet had taken place in New Delhi on December 6, the day that saw Russian President Putin visiting India for the annual India-Russia summit. The dialogue took place in the backdrop of India getting deliveries of the S-400 missile defence system from Russia which can attract US CAATSA (Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act) sanctions. However, it depends on the US Congress on whether there will be a waiver for India. This year saw Indian PM Modi visiting the US for the first in-person Quad summit which involves India, US, Australia and Japan. The relationship between India and US has increased steadily and become broad-based even as India-Russia ties while being traditional has seen defense and space being the only two key focus areas.

India, US 2+2 foreign & defence ministers meet to take place in 3rd week of January

The third wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in India may peak by February 3, 2022, claims a modelling study by researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur.

However, the forecast is based on the assumption that India will follow the trends of rising in cases seen in many countries globally driven by the Omicron variant of coronavirus.

The IIT study came even as the government said on Friday that the world is witnessing the fourth surge in COVID-19 cases, and cautioned people against lowering the guard, particularly during year-end festivities.

Officials said the predominant strain in India continued to be Delta and urged people to avoid crowding and unnecessary travel while maintaining COVID-19-appropriate behaviour.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/358-omicron-cases-in-india-says-govt-uttar-pradesh-state-imposes-night-curfew-439684">358 Omicron cases in India, says govt; Uttar Pradesh state imposes night curfew</a>

The yet-to-be peer-reviewed study, posted on the preprint repository MedRxiv on December 21, used a statistical tool named the Gaussian Mixture model to forecast the third wave.

In their study, the researchers used data from countries such as the US, UK, Germany, and Russia that are already facing the third COVID-19 wave.

They modelled the daily data of cases in these countries to predict the impact and timeline for the third wave in India.

The study also used the data from the first and second waves in India, considering the number of cases with respect to time.

The model forecasts India's third wave of COVID-19 to peak in the beginning of February 2022.

"The cases start rising around 15 December 2021 and the peak of the third wave will occur on Thursday, 3 February 2022,"&nbsp;they wrote in the research paper.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/from-oxygen-supply-to-omicron-threat-10-key-highlights-of-pm-narendra-modis-covid-review-meeting-439451">From oxygen supply to Omicron threat: 10 key highlights of PM Narendra Modi's Covid review meeting</a>

The authors of the study noted that the conclusions are based on the assumptions that a third wave of COVID-19 may hit the country, and will follow the trends happening around the world.

However, the researchers noted that the exact peak number of cases cannot be estimated accurately with the study as it did not consider the vaccination data of the population.

The research team comprised of Sabara Parshad Rajeshbhai, Subhra Sankar Dhar, and Shalabh, all from the Department of Mathematics and Statistics at IIT Kanpur.

The authors noted that the vaccination campaign by the union government is a good initiative but it will take some time to reach "100 per cent efficacy".

"In many countries like the US, UK, Germany, Russia, the majority of the people have been vaccinated but still they are currently facing the third wave," the authors explained.

"So, India and other countries have to build up the defences and be prepared for another wave so that it is not as devastating as the earlier ones," they added.

According to the National COVID-19 Supermodel Committee, the third wave of COVID-19 is expected to peak in early next year but would be milder than the second wave.

The members of the committee said last week that daily caseload in India is expected to increase once Omicron starts displacing Delta as the dominant variant.

India on Friday recorded 122 cases of the Omicron variant of coronavirus in a span of 24 hours, the highest so far, pushing its tally in the country to 358.

Overall, the country reported 6,650 fresh COVID-19 cases, increasing the country's caseload to 3,47,72,626, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said.

The third wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in India may peak by February 3, 2022, claims a modelling study by researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur.

The third wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in India may peak by February 3, 2022, claims a modelling study by researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur. However, the forecast is based on the assumption that India will follow the trends of rising in cases seen in many countries globally driven by the Omicron variant of coronavirus. The IIT study came even as the government said on Friday that the world is witnessing the fourth surge in COVID-19 cases, and cautioned people against lowering the guard, particularly during year-end festivities. Officials said the predominant strain in India continued to be Delta and urged people to avoid crowding and unnecessary travel while maintaining COVID-19-appropriate behaviour. ALSO READ | 358 Omicron cases in India, says govt; Uttar Pradesh state imposes night curfew The yet-to-be peer-reviewed study, posted on the preprint repository MedRxiv on December 21, used a statistical tool named the Gaussian Mixture model to forecast the third wave. In their study, the researchers used data from countries such as the US, UK, Germany, and Russia that are already facing the third COVID-19 wave. They modelled the daily data of cases in these countries to predict the impact and timeline for the third wave in India. The study also used the data from the first and second waves in India, considering the number of cases with respect to time. The model forecasts India's third wave of COVID-19 to peak in the beginning of February 2022. "The cases start rising around 15 December 2021 and the peak of the third wave will occur on Thursday, 3 February 2022," they wrote in the research paper. ALSO READ | From oxygen supply to Omicron threat: 10 key highlights of PM Narendra Modi's Covid review meeting The authors of the study noted that the conclusions are based on the assumptions that a third wave of COVID-19 may hit the country, and will follow the trends happening around the world. However, the researchers noted that the exact peak number of cases cannot be estimated accurately with the study as it did not consider the vaccination data of the population. The research team comprised of Sabara Parshad Rajeshbhai, Subhra Sankar Dhar, and Shalabh, all from the Department of Mathematics and Statistics at IIT Kanpur. The authors noted that the vaccination campaign by the union government is a good initiative but it will take some time to reach "100 per cent efficacy". "In many countries like the US, UK, Germany, Russia, the majority of the people have been vaccinated but still they are currently facing the third wave," the authors explained. "So, India and other countries have to build up the defences and be prepared for another wave so that it is not as devastating as the earlier ones," they added. According to the National COVID-19 Supermodel Committee, the third wave of COVID-19 is expected to peak in early next year but would be milder than the second wave. The members of the committee said last week that daily caseload in India is expected to increase once Omicron starts displacing Delta as the dominant variant. India on Friday recorded 122 cases of the Omicron variant of coronavirus in a span of 24 hours, the highest so far, pushing its tally in the country to 358. Overall, the country reported 6,650 fresh COVID-19 cases, increasing the country's caseload to 3,47,72,626, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said.

IIT-Kanpur study tells when third COVID-19 wave in India may peak

It's a dream come true experience for the tourists who have landed in India's Kashmir Valley to celebrate Christmas and New Year. With fresh snowfall and tourist resorts like Gulmarg and Pahalgam completely covered in white snow, It's a white Christmas this year for all the people in Kashmir.&nbsp;

It's considered to be a blessing to be celebrating Christmas while it snows. All the hotels and guest houses in all the hill stations of Kashmir are completely booked for Christmas and New Year. People who are visiting are completely mesmerised by the views and snowfall.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kashmirs-christmas-art-wows-customers-millions-of-products-sold-worldwide-439289">Kashmir's Christmas art wows customers, millions of products sold worldwide</a>

"I am extremely happy to be here, I have now realised why people call this place paradise. I have come with my family and I am feeling so good that I have never felt so good in my life. These are breath-taking visuals. We are here on Christmas and we are feeling extremely blessed to be here. I feel as if I am in a movie," said Shail Kaushal, who is a tourist.&nbsp;

Some of the tourists were so mesmerised by the visuals that they started dancing in the snow. A lot of tourists were singing while throwing snow on each other. The winter tourists have finally picked up in the Kashmir Valley around the festivities.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-kashmirs-water-bodies-freeze-as-harshest-cold-period-called-chilai-kalan-starts-438747">India: Kashmir's water bodies freeze as harshest cold period called 'Chilai Kalan' starts</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-kashmirs-water-bodies-freeze-as-harshest-cold-period-called-chilai-kalan-starts-438747"><img alt="Kashmir" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0cdef8d3-3a61-4ea3-9c58-1bb79772c993" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/thumbnail_Image%20%2812%29.jpg" /></a>

"I am loving it here; I have come with my whole family. It's one of the best places in India and my kids are enjoying the best. We have specially come for the Christmas and show them white Christmas," said Yejwan Kaushal, another tourist. &nbsp;

The tourist arrivals have broken all the previous records of winter tourism in Kashmir Valley. It's the highest tourist arrival in the last ten years in Kashmir, especially to these hill stations like Gulmarg, Pahalgam and Sonamarg.&nbsp;

It's a dream come true experience for the tourists who have landed in India's Kashmir Valley to celebrate Christmas and New Year. With fresh snowfall and tourist resorts like Gulmarg and Pahalgam completely covered in white snow, It's a white Christmas this year for all the people in Kashmir.

It's a dream come true experience for the tourists who have landed in India's Kashmir Valley to celebrate Christmas and New Year. With fresh snowfall and tourist resorts like Gulmarg and Pahalgam completely covered in white snow, It's a white Christmas this year for all the people in Kashmir. It's considered to be a blessing to be celebrating Christmas while it snows. All the hotels and guest houses in all the hill stations of Kashmir are completely booked for Christmas and New Year. People who are visiting are completely mesmerised by the views and snowfall. ALSO READ | Kashmir's Christmas art wows customers, millions of products sold worldwide "I am extremely happy to be here, I have now realised why people call this place paradise. I have come with my family and I am feeling so good that I have never felt so good in my life. These are breath-taking visuals. We are here on Christmas and we are feeling extremely blessed to be here. I feel as if I am in a movie," said Shail Kaushal, who is a tourist. Some of the tourists were so mesmerised by the visuals that they started dancing in the snow. A lot of tourists were singing while throwing snow on each other. The winter tourists have finally picked up in the Kashmir Valley around the festivities. ALSO READ | India: Kashmir's water bodies freeze as harshest cold period called 'Chilai Kalan' starts "I am loving it here; I have come with my whole family. It's one of the best places in India and my kids are enjoying the best. We have specially come for the Christmas and show them white Christmas," said Yejwan Kaushal, another tourist. The tourist arrivals have broken all the previous records of winter tourism in Kashmir Valley. It's the highest tourist arrival in the last ten years in Kashmir, especially to these hill stations like Gulmarg, Pahalgam and Sonamarg.

'I feel as if I am in a movie': It's white Christmas in Kashmir, tourist arrivals break a ten-year record

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (December 23) chaired a review meeting to assess the coronavirus (COVID-19) situation and the country's preparedness amid rising concerns over another wave fueled by the Omicron variant. The high-level meeting was attended by senior officials and experts.&nbsp;

So far, India has recorded 236 cases of the Omicron variant across 16 states and Union Territories (UTs), according to the Union health ministry data updated on Thursday.&nbsp;

Recently, India's Health Ministry alerted States and Union Territories (UTs) about the Omicron variant, which is apparently at least three times more transmissible than the Delta variant.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-astrazeneca-says-its-third-jab-significantly-boosts-omicron-antibodies-439290">COVID-19: AstraZeneca says its third jab 'significantly' boosts Omicron antibodies</a>

PM Modi said that the fight against the pandemic is not over&nbsp;and the need for continued adherence to Covid-safe behaviour is of "paramount importance" even today.&nbsp;

During the meeting, officials briefed PM about the emerging scenario globally driven by the new variant Omicron.&nbsp;

He reviewed the status of public health response measures for containment and management of the virus cases.

He took a note on the strengthening of health infrastructure including the availability of drugs, oxygen cylinders and concentrators, ventilators, PSA plants, ICU/oxygen supported beds, human resources, IT interventions and status of vaccination.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/from-oxygen-supply-to-omicron-threat-10-key-highlights-of-pm-narendra-modis-covid-review-meeting-439451">From oxygen supply to Omicron threat: 10 key highlights of PM Narendra Modi's Covid review meeting</a>

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The ministry further asked the states and UTs to "activate" war rooms and keep analysing even small trends and surges at the district and local levels.&nbsp;

Amid a rise in cases caused by Omicron variant in some countries, there have been demands that the Indian government should allow booster doses of vaccines to be administered to those already fully inoculated against COVID-19. However, there isn't any official remark on the same.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Study suggests Omicron milder than Delta variant

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (December 23) chaired a review meeting to assess the coronavirus (COVID-19) situation and the country's preparedness amid rising concerns over another wave fueled by the Omicron variant.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (December 23) chaired a review meeting to assess the coronavirus (COVID-19) situation and the country's preparedness amid rising concerns over another wave fueled by the Omicron variant. The high-level meeting was attended by senior officials and experts. So far, India has recorded 236 cases of the Omicron variant across 16 states and Union Territories (UTs), according to the Union health ministry data updated on Thursday. Recently, India's Health Ministry alerted States and Union Territories (UTs) about the Omicron variant, which is apparently at least three times more transmissible than the Delta variant. ALSO READ | COVID-19: AstraZeneca says its third jab 'significantly' boosts Omicron antibodies PM Modi said that the fight against the pandemic is not over and the need for continued adherence to Covid-safe behaviour is of "paramount importance" even today. During the meeting, officials briefed PM about the emerging scenario globally driven by the new variant Omicron. He reviewed the status of public health response measures for containment and management of the virus cases. He took a note on the strengthening of health infrastructure including the availability of drugs, oxygen cylinders and concentrators, ventilators, PSA plants, ICU/oxygen supported beds, human resources, IT interventions and status of vaccination. ALSO READ | From oxygen supply to Omicron threat: 10 key highlights of PM Narendra Modi's Covid review meeting #WATCH | Prime Minister Narendra Modi chairs #COVID19 review meeting pic.twitter.com/4lUUVuB7UK — ANI (@ANI) December 23, 2021 × The ministry further asked the states and UTs to "activate" war rooms and keep analysing even small trends and surges at the district and local levels. Amid a rise in cases caused by Omicron variant in some countries, there have been demands that the Indian government should allow booster doses of vaccines to be administered to those already fully inoculated against COVID-19. However, there isn't any official remark on the same. WATCH | Study suggests Omicron milder than Delta variant ×

As concerns over Omicron variant in India rise, PM Narendra Modi chairs COVID-19 review meeting

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