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Newly-appointed Indian Navy Chief Admiral R Hari Kumar on Friday said that his forcing is closely monitoring the activities of China in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) and added that it is ready to deal with any security threat.

Addressing a press conference on the eve of Navy Day, Kumar, said, “The Chinese navy has been present in Indian Ocean Region since 2008 and they have seven to eight warships here. There is constant surveillance by our aircraft and ships and their activities are kept under close watch,” he said.

Responding to questions on the threat from China in the maritime domain, Kumar said, “I want to assure you that the Indian Navy is a well-balanced force and is confident of defending India's maritime interests for sure.”

Referring to China's rapid expansion of its naval assets, the newly-appointed navy chief said, “We're aware of the development of the Chinese navy building 110 warships in last few years. Our plans will factor in all the activities and deployments in the IOR. I want to assure you that the Indian Navy is confident of defending India’s maritime interests.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/exclusive-for-india-china-a-bigger-security-threat-than-pakistan-says-cds-bipin-rawat-390906">Exclusive: For India, China a bigger security threat than Pakistan, says CDS Bipin Rawat</a>

“The Chinese activities and deployments are kept under close watch. We have our plans,” he added.

Asked about the Navy's earlier plan of becoming a 170-ship force, he said a new scientific process to assess the requirement under a 10-year Integrated Capability Development Plan (ICDP) is underway following which decisions will be taken.

"It may be 230 (ships), it may be 300, the process is on. It is a scientific process. I cannot give you a number at this point. We will arrive at a decision following the completion of the process," he said.

Also read |&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-standoff-new-delhi-and-beijing-agree-to-hold-another-meeting-to-resolve-border-dispute-422614">India-China standoff: New Delhi and Beijing agree to hold another meeting to resolve border dispute</a>

The Navy had set a target to become a 170-ship force by 2027. At present, the Navy has around 130 ships.

Speaking about the Indo-Pacific, Kumar said it has got great importance for India.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Newly-appointed Indian Navy Chief Admiral R Hari Kumar on Friday said that his forcing is closely monitoring the activities of China in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) and added that it is ready to deal with any security threat.

Newly-appointed Indian Navy Chief Admiral R Hari Kumar on Friday said that his forcing is closely monitoring the activities of China in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) and added that it is ready to deal with any security threat. Addressing a press conference on the eve of Navy Day, Kumar, said, “The Chinese navy has been present in Indian Ocean Region since 2008 and they have seven to eight warships here. There is constant surveillance by our aircraft and ships and their activities are kept under close watch,” he said. Responding to questions on the threat from China in the maritime domain, Kumar said, “I want to assure you that the Indian Navy is a well-balanced force and is confident of defending India's maritime interests for sure.” Referring to China's rapid expansion of its naval assets, the newly-appointed navy chief said, “We're aware of the development of the Chinese navy building 110 warships in last few years. Our plans will factor in all the activities and deployments in the IOR. I want to assure you that the Indian Navy is confident of defending India’s maritime interests.” Also read | Exclusive: For India, China a bigger security threat than Pakistan, says CDS Bipin Rawat “The Chinese activities and deployments are kept under close watch. We have our plans,” he added. Asked about the Navy's earlier plan of becoming a 170-ship force, he said a new scientific process to assess the requirement under a 10-year Integrated Capability Development Plan (ICDP) is underway following which decisions will be taken. "It may be 230 (ships), it may be 300, the process is on. It is a scientific process. I cannot give you a number at this point. We will arrive at a decision following the completion of the process," he said. Also read | India-China standoff: New Delhi and Beijing agree to hold another meeting to resolve border dispute The Navy had set a target to become a 170-ship force by 2027. At present, the Navy has around 130 ships. Speaking about the Indo-Pacific, Kumar said it has got great importance for India. (With inputs from agencies)

India keeping close eye on Chinese activities in Indian Ocean, says newly appointed Navy Chief

India’s Karnataka state government on Friday ordered a probe to find out how the 66-year-old South African national, who was infected with Omicron variant, managed to leave the country even as his genome&nbsp;sequencing reports were awaited.

Questions are being raised after the foreigner managed to get a negative report within three days of testing positive for Covid on arrival and also about him reportedly attending some official meeting and leaving the country.

“The person (66-year-old) had isolated at a hotel and he has gone from there (outside the country). First his (Covid test) report came positive and then re-test came negative. Whether there was any mishandling, whether the lab tests were accurate or was there any wrongdoing, the police commissioner has been directed to investigate this," state revenue minister R Ashoka said.

Speaking to reporters after a high-level meeting chaired by chief minister Basavaraj Bommai, Ashoka said a complaint has been filed and a police team is investigating the case.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/a-day-after-two-omicron-cases-reported-from-indias-karnataka-10-south-african-nationals-go-missing-433899">A day after two Omicron cases reported from India’s Karnataka, 10 South African nationals go missing</a>

"Two reports—one positive and one negative—is doubtful. So, the lab must be investigated. We have asked the police commissioner to investigate immediately in coordination with the health department," he added.

Officials on Thursday said that the South African national had come to Bengaluru on November 20 and his samples were collected at the airport and subsequently he tested positive.

Also read&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/omicron-in-india-dont-need-fear-says-health-ministry-as-first-2-cases-found-one-patient-fully-vaccinated-433526">Omicron in India: Don't need fear, says health ministry as first 2 cases found; one patient fully vaccinated</a>

His samples were then sent for genome sequencing, the reports of which came on Thursday, confirming he was infected by Omicron.

Further noting that the person was isolated in a hotel, and subsequently underwent a test separately (self-investigation) at another laboratory (private lab on Nov 23), during which his reports came out negative, they had said he then left for Dubai on November 27 and all his 24 primary contacts and 240 secondary contacts had tested negative.

(With inputs from agencies)

India’s Karnataka state government on Friday ordered a probe to find out how the 66-year-old South African national, who was infected with Omicron variant, managed to leave the country even as his genome sequencing reports were awaited.

India’s Karnataka state government on Friday ordered a probe to find out how the 66-year-old South African national, who was infected with Omicron variant, managed to leave the country even as his genome sequencing reports were awaited. Questions are being raised after the foreigner managed to get a negative report within three days of testing positive for Covid on arrival and also about him reportedly attending some official meeting and leaving the country. “The person (66-year-old) had isolated at a hotel and he has gone from there (outside the country). First his (Covid test) report came positive and then re-test came negative. Whether there was any mishandling, whether the lab tests were accurate or was there any wrongdoing, the police commissioner has been directed to investigate this," state revenue minister R Ashoka said. Speaking to reporters after a high-level meeting chaired by chief minister Basavaraj Bommai, Ashoka said a complaint has been filed and a police team is investigating the case. Also read | A day after two Omicron cases reported from India’s Karnataka, 10 South African nationals go missing "Two reports—one positive and one negative—is doubtful. So, the lab must be investigated. We have asked the police commissioner to investigate immediately in coordination with the health department," he added. Officials on Thursday said that the South African national had come to Bengaluru on November 20 and his samples were collected at the airport and subsequently he tested positive. Also read | Omicron in India: Don't need fear, says health ministry as first 2 cases found; one patient fully vaccinated His samples were then sent for genome sequencing, the reports of which came on Thursday, confirming he was infected by Omicron. Further noting that the person was isolated in a hotel, and subsequently underwent a test separately (self-investigation) at another laboratory (private lab on Nov 23), during which his reports came out negative, they had said he then left for Dubai on November 27 and all his 24 primary contacts and 240 secondary contacts had tested negative. (With inputs from agencies)

Karnataka govt orders probe into test reports of Omicron-infected foreigner that allowed him to leave India

India and Russia will achieve “military understandings” during President Vladimir Putin's visit, Russian envoy Nikolay R Kudashev said on Friday.

The envoy’s comments days ahead of Putin’s visit to India on Monday for the annual India-Russia summit.

Speaking exclusively to WION’s diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Kudashev said, “One could easily await some new understandings in the spheres like connectivity, space, education, and also some military understandings will also be achieved, reflecting the growing level of confidence (between India and Russia).”

The annual summit level, which alternates between the two countries, will be an eventful day for India-Russia ties.

The day begins with defence minister Rajnath Singh and his Russian counterpart Sergey Shoygu co-chairing the Intergovernmental Commission on Military-Technical Cooperation, and external affairs minister Jaishankar meeting his counterpart Sergey Lavrov.

These meetings will be followed by the inaugural meeting of the newly instituted 2 + 2 mechanism at the level of the foreign and defence ministers.

In the afternoon the 21st India-Russia Annual Summit will kick off. Putin will be in India for 6 to 7 hours.

Few excerpts

WION: What will be the key focus of the Russian president's visit? How do you see the visit and how it will help the relationship?

Nikolay R&nbsp;Kudashev: The visit is historical. There was a small pause due to the pandemic conditions. It is a personal meeting, which is important because the volume of the relationship is immense. Rest assured, the visit will be rich in substance, the joint statement will give the results of the visit, which will be very substantial and give the whole gamut of our ties in the global arena and bilaterally. One can expect a set of agreements and deals (to be signed). One could easily await some new understandings in the spheres like connectivity, space, science and technology, education, arts and culture, and also some military understandings, reflecting the growing level of confidence.

WION: How much focus will be on regional issues like Afghanistan?

Nikolay R&nbsp;Kudashev:&nbsp;Definitely, Afghanistan is our common concern. We fully apricate Delhi's initiative when it convened the recent meeting of national security advisors, resulting in the famous Delhi Declaration. Afghanistan would be on the agenda and some new level of cooperation could be guaranteed while taking stock of the results of the Delhi Dialogue.

WION: Any update on deliveries of S-400 missile system?

Nikolay R&nbsp;Kudashev:&nbsp;The contract is being implemented, strictly as per the schedule, By the end of the year, expect fresh deliveries could be expected.

India and Russia will achieve “military understandings” during President Vladimir Putin's visit, Russian envoy Nikolay R Kudashev said on Friday. The envoy’s comments days ahead of Putin’s visit to India on Monday for the annual India-Russia summit.

India and Russia will achieve “military understandings” during President Vladimir Putin's visit, Russian envoy Nikolay R Kudashev said on Friday. The envoy’s comments days ahead of Putin’s visit to India on Monday for the annual India-Russia summit. Speaking exclusively to WION’s diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Kudashev said, “One could easily await some new understandings in the spheres like connectivity, space, education, and also some military understandings will also be achieved, reflecting the growing level of confidence (between India and Russia).” The annual summit level, which alternates between the two countries, will be an eventful day for India-Russia ties. The day begins with defence minister Rajnath Singh and his Russian counterpart Sergey Shoygu co-chairing the Intergovernmental Commission on Military-Technical Cooperation, and external affairs minister Jaishankar meeting his counterpart Sergey Lavrov. These meetings will be followed by the inaugural meeting of the newly instituted 2 + 2 mechanism at the level of the foreign and defence ministers. In the afternoon the 21st India-Russia Annual Summit will kick off. Putin will be in India for 6 to 7 hours. Few excerpts WION: What will be the key focus of the Russian president's visit? How do you see the visit and how it will help the relationship? Nikolay R Kudashev: The visit is historical. There was a small pause due to the pandemic conditions. It is a personal meeting, which is important because the volume of the relationship is immense. Rest assured, the visit will be rich in substance, the joint statement will give the results of the visit, which will be very substantial and give the whole gamut of our ties in the global arena and bilaterally. One can expect a set of agreements and deals (to be signed). One could easily await some new understandings in the spheres like connectivity, space, science and technology, education, arts and culture, and also some military understandings, reflecting the growing level of confidence. WION: How much focus will be on regional issues like Afghanistan? Nikolay R Kudashev: Definitely, Afghanistan is our common concern. We fully apricate Delhi's initiative when it convened the recent meeting of national security advisors, resulting in the famous Delhi Declaration. Afghanistan would be on the agenda and some new level of cooperation could be guaranteed while taking stock of the results of the Delhi Dialogue. WION: Any update on deliveries of S-400 missile system? Nikolay R Kudashev: The contract is being implemented, strictly as per the schedule, By the end of the year, expect fresh deliveries could be expected.

‘Military understandings’ will be achieved during Putin’s India visit: Russian envoy Kudashev

India has revoked a patent for a potato variety grown exclusively for PepsiCo Inc's popular Lay's potato chips, according to an order issued on Friday by the Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers' Rights (PPVFR) Authority

In 2019, PepsiCo sued some Indian farmers based in the western state of Gujarat for cultivating the FC5 potato variety, which has a lower moisture content required to make snacks such as potato chips.

Withdrawing the lawsuits the same year, the New York-based company said it wanted to settle the issue amicably.

Later, Kavitha Kuruganti, a farmers' rights activist, petitioned the PPVFR Authority for revocation of intellectual protection granted to PepsiCo's FC5 potato variety, saying that India's rules do not allow a patent on seed varieties.

The PPVFR Authority agreed with Kuruganti's contention that Pepsi cannot claim a patent over a seed variety.

"The certificate of registration...is hereby revoked with immediate effect," K. V. Prabhu, chairman of the PPVFR Authority said in the order, seen by Reuters.

A PepsiCo India spokesman said: "We are aware of the order passed by the PPVFR Authority and are in the process of reviewing the same."

PepsiCo has maintained that it developed the FC5 variety of potato, and registered the trait in 2016.

The company, which set up its first potato chips plant in India in 1989, supplies the FC5 seed variety to a group of farmers who in turn sell their produce to the company at a fixed price.

Lauding the PPVFR Authority's ruling, potato farmers from Gujarat called it a victory for growers.

"The order is a big victory for farmers of India, and reaffirms their right to cultivate any crops," said Bipin Patel, who was one of the Gujarat-based farmers sued by Pepsi in 2019.

India has revoked a patent for a potato variety grown exclusively for PepsiCo Inc's popular Lay's potato chips, according to an order issued on Friday by the Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers' Rights (PPVFR) Authority In 2019, PepsiCo sued some Indian farmers based in the western state of Gujarat for cultivating the FC5 potato variety, which has a lower moisture content required to make snacks such as potato chips.

India has revoked a patent for a potato variety grown exclusively for PepsiCo Inc's popular Lay's potato chips, according to an order issued on Friday by the Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers' Rights (PPVFR) Authority In 2019, PepsiCo sued some Indian farmers based in the western state of Gujarat for cultivating the FC5 potato variety, which has a lower moisture content required to make snacks such as potato chips. Withdrawing the lawsuits the same year, the New York-based company said it wanted to settle the issue amicably. Later, Kavitha Kuruganti, a farmers' rights activist, petitioned the PPVFR Authority for revocation of intellectual protection granted to PepsiCo's FC5 potato variety, saying that India's rules do not allow a patent on seed varieties. The PPVFR Authority agreed with Kuruganti's contention that Pepsi cannot claim a patent over a seed variety. "The certificate of registration...is hereby revoked with immediate effect," K. V. Prabhu, chairman of the PPVFR Authority said in the order, seen by Reuters. A PepsiCo India spokesman said: "We are aware of the order passed by the PPVFR Authority and are in the process of reviewing the same." PepsiCo has maintained that it developed the FC5 variety of potato, and registered the trait in 2016. The company, which set up its first potato chips plant in India in 1989, supplies the FC5 seed variety to a group of farmers who in turn sell their produce to the company at a fixed price. Lauding the PPVFR Authority's ruling, potato farmers from Gujarat called it a victory for growers. "The order is a big victory for farmers of India, and reaffirms their right to cultivate any crops," said Bipin Patel, who was one of the Gujarat-based farmers sued by Pepsi in 2019.

Major win for farmers as India revokes patent for PepsiCo's Lay's potatoes

European Union's special envoy on Afghanistan, Tomas Niklasson, who is in Delhi, has welcomed the Indian government's offer to send humanitarian support of 50,000 MT of wheat to Afghanistan. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The Indian support offer comes as onset of winter in Afghanistan is worsening the situation in the war-torn country for many residents. The country witnessed a Taliban takeover in August. &nbsp;

Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Niklasson said, "There is a very strong overlap in way, or a very similar analysis of the situation" by India and EU when it comes to Afghanistan and both are "looking to see if there are concrete areas where we can work." In Delhi, the EU special envoy met India’s Foreign Secretary Harsh Shringla and JS PAI JP Singh. &nbsp;

Niklasson has come to Delhi from Doha where he had held talks with Taliban delegation led by its Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi. One of the key issues raised by EU during the meet was human rights, women's rights, lack of inclusivity of Taliban-led government, etc. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Asked about if EU plans to recognise the regime, he said, "We are not rushing into recognition, we are not recognising, we haven't recognised the Taliban regime, the interim government. We do, however, see the need to engage with them". &nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;

Sidhant Sibal: What kind of conversations you had in Delhi with the India’s Foreign Secretary Harsh Shringla and JS PAI JP Singh? &nbsp;

Tomas Niklasson: We had a very good meeting on Wednesday with the foreign secretary and also with the joint secretary working on Afghanistan, whom I have met before. Basically, the purpose of my visit is to explore with Indian officials, understand better how they see the situation, what challenges they see are coming from Afghanistan, what solution they see, how we can work together and I am pleased to see what we basically knew from before that there is a very strong overlap in way or a very similar analysis of the situation and now looking to see if there are concrete areas where we can work. &nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;

Sidhant Sibal: What are these concrete areas where India and EU can work on Afghanistan? &nbsp;

Tomas Niklasson: To start with, we need to have a common understanding of the situation, that we already have. We should also, try to harmonise the messages that we are sending to the Taliban appointed interim government, in terms of what is expected from them, respect for human rights, Afghanistan not again being a threat to other countries, inclusivity of the government and some other issues and that is something we can work on but not exclusively between EU and India and I see convergence among partners in the region and beyond. It is the same thing we tell and that is a good thing. &nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-announces-first-if-its-kind-nuclear-programme-to-have-9-nuclear-reactors-by-2024-433654" hreflang="en">India announces 'first if its kind' nuclear programme, to have 9 nuclear reactors by 2024</a>

&nbsp;

Sidhant Sibal: What kind of conversation you had in Doha with Taliban FM Muttaqi and do you plan to recognise the Taliban government in Kabul? &nbsp;

Tomas Niklasson: I will start with second question because that is the easiest and shortest one. The answer is no, we are not rushing into recognition, we haven't recognised the Taliban regime, the interim government. We do, however, see the need to engage with them and our conversation in Doha this weekend, with acting Taliban foreign minister and the delegation from Kabul touched on the areas I just mentioned. We talked on inclusivity of the government, human rights, counter terrorism, access to humanitarian assistance and safe passage, which means Afghans under threat, people, which need safe passage to be able to leave the country. &nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;

Sidhant Sibal: But do you think Taliban is serious about these issues, like human rights, women's education? &nbsp;

Tomas Niklasson: We have discussed the issue of inclusive government and I made it very clear, you are absolutely right that there are no women in the leading position that is something we talked about. On inclusivity, there are other aspects, such as ethnicity, non-Taliban and non-Pashtuns, should have a stronger role if they want government to be recognised by its own people. There is a lot of talk about international recognition but equally important or some would say even more important is to be recognised by own people. When it comes to the right of women, long way to go. We talked about education and there was a clear commitment and clear declaration that it is a policy of the interim government that women and girls should go to school. But obviously this is not happening and we need to see it, we need to push and monitor and ensure girls get access to education. We could even see or support the payments of stipend, to incentivise teachers, so that education can be provided but that can only happen if girls have access. &nbsp;

&nbsp;

Sidhant Sibal: India is keen to send humanitarian aid to Afghan people, but there are some hindrances. &nbsp;

Tomas Niklasson: Humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan is absolutely crucial. EU has raised its pledges of humanitarian assistance from 60 million euros to 300 million euros. Our member states have pledged another 400 million euros and we appreciate contributions from other countries and also appreciate India's offer to send 50,000 MT of wheat to Afghanistan. There were some references in our conversation that there were talks going on to solve the issue between India and Pakistan. I am not aware how these talks are progressing, I am not aware of specific details but obviously for the sake of people of Afghanistan, we will very much hope that a solution can be found quickly. &nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;

Sidhant Sibal: Pakistan has influence when it comes Taliban. What role do you see of the government in Islamabad when it comes to making sure Taliban fulfills its commitment. Do you think Taliban is playing a negative role or it is playing a certain positive role? &nbsp;

Tomas Niklasson: I don't think it is constructive to try to put countries in either of those categories. The relationship between Afghanistan and Pakistan is complex and long and we can talk about history, how the countries suffered. Pakistan has paid a heavy price. It has been very clear to me that many Indian voices consider Pakistan to have played negative role but we have seen positive elements. They have generously hosted large number of Afghanistan refugees for decades at a very high price, in terms of how it has impacted the country. They have played a constructive role now in helping the Afghan people and foreign citizens leave the country. So, I would not like to or don't find it helpful to try to draw up a net value. We try to work with countries including India and Pakistan and see that the messaging and the identification of these messages we need to send to the Taliban are very similar and we all need to make progress from words to action. So rather than qualifying, who is playing negative or positive role, we should look as to how each can contribute for the sake of people and for peace and stability. &nbsp;

&nbsp;

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&nbsp;&nbsp;

Sidhant Sibal: What do you think is the biggest challenge, one is of course, humanitarian aid, and what EU can do about it? &nbsp;

Tomas Niklasson: In short term, winter is already in Afghanistan and humanitarian challenge is a priority. We already have people on the ground in Kabul, we have international humanitarian staff working day and night to make sure our pledges of 300 million euros are translated into medicine, food, cloths and the essentials people need to survive. We work through international organisations, UN organisations and NGOs to make sure that this happens and it is. We see fast progress and there are significant challenges in getting resources into the country, not just the Indian wheat, but liquidity problem, but my basic message is we never left Afghanistan in terms of the humanitarian assistance, we have worked with Afghanistan for more than 20 years and we continue to do everything we can to help the Afghan people because our commitment to it remains very strong. &nbsp;

&nbsp; &nbsp;

Sidhant Sibal: Any plans to open full-fledged mission of EU in Kabul? &nbsp;

Tomas Niklasson: There are no plans to open full-fledged mission in Kabul. We had a quite substantial presence; we were providing development assistance of 200-300 million euros per year. This is not happening; this is not possible. What we are considering is if we can have very small number of colleagues, no ambassador, no head of delegation but few people, who can help on the one hand when it comes to humanitarian assistance and second to help Afghans whom we have obligations and big responsibility for, in terms of safe passage. This will depend, if we can do that and when we can do that, on the security situation, how it evolves and it depends on the mechanism we can put in place to secure our staff. which is an absolute priority for us but provided we can solve these issues; this can happen sooner or later.&nbsp;

European Union's special envoy on Afghanistan, Tomas Niklasson, who is in Delhi, has welcomed the Indian government's offer to send humanitarian support of 50,000 MT of wheat to Afghanistan.

European Union's special envoy on Afghanistan, Tomas Niklasson, who is in Delhi, has welcomed the Indian government's offer to send humanitarian support of 50,000 MT of wheat to Afghanistan. The Indian support offer comes as onset of winter in Afghanistan is worsening the situation in the war-torn country for many residents. The country witnessed a Taliban takeover in August. Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Niklasson said, "There is a very strong overlap in way, or a very similar analysis of the situation" by India and EU when it comes to Afghanistan and both are "looking to see if there are concrete areas where we can work." In Delhi, the EU special envoy met India’s Foreign Secretary Harsh Shringla and JS PAI JP Singh. Niklasson has come to Delhi from Doha where he had held talks with Taliban delegation led by its Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi. One of the key issues raised by EU during the meet was human rights, women's rights, lack of inclusivity of Taliban-led government, etc. Asked about if EU plans to recognise the regime, he said, "We are not rushing into recognition, we are not recognising, we haven't recognised the Taliban regime, the interim government. We do, however, see the need to engage with them". Sidhant Sibal: What kind of conversations you had in Delhi with the India’s Foreign Secretary Harsh Shringla and JS PAI JP Singh? Tomas Niklasson: We had a very good meeting on Wednesday with the foreign secretary and also with the joint secretary working on Afghanistan, whom I have met before. Basically, the purpose of my visit is to explore with Indian officials, understand better how they see the situation, what challenges they see are coming from Afghanistan, what solution they see, how we can work together and I am pleased to see what we basically knew from before that there is a very strong overlap in way or a very similar analysis of the situation and now looking to see if there are concrete areas where we can work. Sidhant Sibal: What are these concrete areas where India and EU can work on Afghanistan? Tomas Niklasson: To start with, we need to have a common understanding of the situation, that we already have. We should also, try to harmonise the messages that we are sending to the Taliban appointed interim government, in terms of what is expected from them, respect for human rights, Afghanistan not again being a threat to other countries, inclusivity of the government and some other issues and that is something we can work on but not exclusively between EU and India and I see convergence among partners in the region and beyond. It is the same thing we tell and that is a good thing. Also Read: India announces 'first if its kind' nuclear programme, to have 9 nuclear reactors by 2024 Sidhant Sibal: What kind of conversation you had in Doha with Taliban FM Muttaqi and do you plan to recognise the Taliban government in Kabul? Tomas Niklasson: I will start with second question because that is the easiest and shortest one. The answer is no, we are not rushing into recognition, we haven't recognised the Taliban regime, the interim government. We do, however, see the need to engage with them and our conversation in Doha this weekend, with acting Taliban foreign minister and the delegation from Kabul touched on the areas I just mentioned. We talked on inclusivity of the government, human rights, counter terrorism, access to humanitarian assistance and safe passage, which means Afghans under threat, people, which need safe passage to be able to leave the country. Sidhant Sibal: But do you think Taliban is serious about these issues, like human rights, women's education? Tomas Niklasson: We have discussed the issue of inclusive government and I made it very clear, you are absolutely right that there are no women in the leading position that is something we talked about. On inclusivity, there are other aspects, such as ethnicity, non-Taliban and non-Pashtuns, should have a stronger role if they want government to be recognised by its own people. There is a lot of talk about international recognition but equally important or some would say even more important is to be recognised by own people. When it comes to the right of women, long way to go. We talked about education and there was a clear commitment and clear declaration that it is a policy of the interim government that women and girls should go to school. But obviously this is not happening and we need to see it, we need to push and monitor and ensure girls get access to education. We could even see or support the payments of stipend, to incentivise teachers, so that education can be provided but that can only happen if girls have access. Sidhant Sibal: India is keen to send humanitarian aid to Afghan people, but there are some hindrances. Tomas Niklasson: Humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan is absolutely crucial. EU has raised its pledges of humanitarian assistance from 60 million euros to 300 million euros. Our member states have pledged another 400 million euros and we appreciate contributions from other countries and also appreciate India's offer to send 50,000 MT of wheat to Afghanistan. There were some references in our conversation that there were talks going on to solve the issue between India and Pakistan. I am not aware how these talks are progressing, I am not aware of specific details but obviously for the sake of people of Afghanistan, we will very much hope that a solution can be found quickly. Sidhant Sibal: Pakistan has influence when it comes Taliban. What role do you see of the government in Islamabad when it comes to making sure Taliban fulfills its commitment. Do you think Taliban is playing a negative role or it is playing a certain positive role? Tomas Niklasson: I don't think it is constructive to try to put countries in either of those categories. The relationship between Afghanistan and Pakistan is complex and long and we can talk about history, how the countries suffered. Pakistan has paid a heavy price. It has been very clear to me that many Indian voices consider Pakistan to have played negative role but we have seen positive elements. They have generously hosted large number of Afghanistan refugees for decades at a very high price, in terms of how it has impacted the country. They have played a constructive role now in helping the Afghan people and foreign citizens leave the country. So, I would not like to or don't find it helpful to try to draw up a net value. We try to work with countries including India and Pakistan and see that the messaging and the identification of these messages we need to send to the Taliban are very similar and we all need to make progress from words to action. So rather than qualifying, who is playing negative or positive role, we should look as to how each can contribute for the sake of people and for peace and stability. Also Read: No free Covid treatment if not vaccinated in this India’s southern state Sidhant Sibal: What do you think is the biggest challenge, one is of course, humanitarian aid, and what EU can do about it? Tomas Niklasson: In short term, winter is already in Afghanistan and humanitarian challenge is a priority. We already have people on the ground in Kabul, we have international humanitarian staff working day and night to make sure our pledges of 300 million euros are translated into medicine, food, cloths and the essentials people need to survive. We work through international organisations, UN organisations and NGOs to make sure that this happens and it is. We see fast progress and there are significant challenges in getting resources into the country, not just the Indian wheat, but liquidity problem, but my basic message is we never left Afghanistan in terms of the humanitarian assistance, we have worked with Afghanistan for more than 20 years and we continue to do everything we can to help the Afghan people because our commitment to it remains very strong. Sidhant Sibal: Any plans to open full-fledged mission of EU in Kabul? Tomas Niklasson: There are no plans to open full-fledged mission in Kabul. We had a quite substantial presence; we were providing development assistance of 200-300 million euros per year. This is not happening; this is not possible. What we are considering is if we can have very small number of colleagues, no ambassador, no head of delegation but few people, who can help on the one hand when it comes to humanitarian assistance and second to help Afghans whom we have obligations and big responsibility for, in terms of safe passage. This will depend, if we can do that and when we can do that, on the security situation, how it evolves and it depends on the mechanism we can put in place to secure our staff. which is an absolute priority for us but provided we can solve these issues; this can happen sooner or later.

EU special envoy on Afghanistan lauds India's humanitarian support offer to Kabul  

India’s southern Karnataka has sounded alert after 10 South African nationals became untraceable following the detection of two Omicron cases in Bengaluru city.

The missing people, who arrived between November 12 and 22, were not found at the addresses given by them at the airport and their mobile phones were switched off.

As many as 57 persons had arrived from “at-risk” countries.

State revenue minister R Ashok said special force has been deployed to locate their whereabouts.

“By tonight (Friday) all 10 people who have reportedly gone missing should be traced and they should be tested. Travelers will not be allowed to leave the airport until their report is out,” Ashok said after a top level on Omicron.

Chief minister Basavaraj Bommai on Friday chaired a meeting with experts, senior Ministers and officials in the wake of two cases of Omicron variant being detected in the state.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/omicron-in-india-dont-need-fear-says-health-ministry-as-first-2-cases-found-one-patient-fully-vaccinated-433526">Omicron in India: Don't need fear, says health ministry as first 2 cases found; one patient fully vaccinated</a>

The health department has already approached the police department to track and trace these persons. The department is planning to send all samples to genomic sequencing tests to get clarity on the presence of Omicron virus.

On Thursday, India reported its first Omicron case where two individuals—a 66-year-old South African national and a doctor from Bengaluru— tested positive.

The foreigner left the country after testing negative, while the doctor, aged 46, had no travel history.

Five contacts of the doctor have also tested positive and their samples have been sent for genomic sequencing.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australia-reports-omicron-cases-in-school-433807">Australia reports Omicron cases in school</a>

Meanwhile, the Karnataka state government announced certain preventive measures that include compulsory two dose vaccination for entering malls, cinema halls or theatres, and for parents of school or college going students.

Intensifying screening of international passengers at airports, asking educational institutions to postpone their public events, and limiting gatherings, meetings, conferences to 500 people, are among the other measures announced by the government.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-warns-asia-pacific-to-brace-for-omicron-urges-countries-to-speed-up-vaccination-433863">WHO warns Asia-Pacific to brace for Omicron, urges countries to speed up vaccination</a>

RT-PCR testing of over 16,000 passengers arriving on 58 flights from 'at risk' countries have been done so far. Eighteen of these tested positive for in RT-PCR testing, their genome sequencing is underway so that it can be determined if they have Omicron variant or not, Union health minister Mansukh Mandaviya informed the Lok Sabha earlier today.

(With inputs from agencies)

India’s southern Karnataka has sounded alert after 10 South African nationals became untraceable following the detection of two Omicron cases in Bengaluru city. The missing people, who arrived between November 12 and 22, were not found at the addresses given by them at the airport and their mobile phones were switched off.

India’s southern Karnataka has sounded alert after 10 South African nationals became untraceable following the detection of two Omicron cases in Bengaluru city. The missing people, who arrived between November 12 and 22, were not found at the addresses given by them at the airport and their mobile phones were switched off. As many as 57 persons had arrived from “at-risk” countries. State revenue minister R Ashok said special force has been deployed to locate their whereabouts. “By tonight (Friday) all 10 people who have reportedly gone missing should be traced and they should be tested. Travelers will not be allowed to leave the airport until their report is out,” Ashok said after a top level on Omicron. Chief minister Basavaraj Bommai on Friday chaired a meeting with experts, senior Ministers and officials in the wake of two cases of Omicron variant being detected in the state. Also read | Omicron in India: Don't need fear, says health ministry as first 2 cases found; one patient fully vaccinated The health department has already approached the police department to track and trace these persons. The department is planning to send all samples to genomic sequencing tests to get clarity on the presence of Omicron virus. On Thursday, India reported its first Omicron case where two individuals—a 66-year-old South African national and a doctor from Bengaluru— tested positive. The foreigner left the country after testing negative, while the doctor, aged 46, had no travel history. Five contacts of the doctor have also tested positive and their samples have been sent for genomic sequencing. Also read | Australia reports Omicron cases in school Meanwhile, the Karnataka state government announced certain preventive measures that include compulsory two dose vaccination for entering malls, cinema halls or theatres, and for parents of school or college going students. Intensifying screening of international passengers at airports, asking educational institutions to postpone their public events, and limiting gatherings, meetings, conferences to 500 people, are among the other measures announced by the government. Also read | WHO warns Asia-Pacific to brace for Omicron, urges countries to speed up vaccination RT-PCR testing of over 16,000 passengers arriving on 58 flights from 'at risk' countries have been done so far. Eighteen of these tested positive for in RT-PCR testing, their genome sequencing is underway so that it can be determined if they have Omicron variant or not, Union health minister Mansukh Mandaviya informed the Lok Sabha earlier today. (With inputs from agencies)

A day after two Omicron cases reported from India’s Karnataka, 10 South African nationals go missing

At a time when the world is facing the new variant 'Omicron' of COVID-19, the administration in Jammu and Kashmir has sprung into action. The administration has chalked out new rules and regulations for the international travellers coming to Kashmir Valley.&nbsp;

All those people who are either tourists from different countries or locals who travelled abroad will have to be quarantined. The official quarantine will continue till the time test reports come, followed by&nbsp;home quarantine for one week.&nbsp;

The Srinagar administration has set up three special quarantine centers for foreign tourists and locals who have traveled abroad. These facilities would be free of cost. The administration has also established paid quarantine centers where&nbsp;full medical arrangements will be made as well.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/south-africa-witnesses-rise-in-covid-reinfections-433797">WATCH |</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/south-africa-witnesses-rise-in-covid-reinfections-433797/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

''WHO has detected the new variant and says it is a cause of concern, they have called it Omicron. We have taken steps at the Srinagar airport, all tourists and locals coming from abroad will have to get a RT-PCR test done at the airport only. After taking the samples, we have set up quarantine centres and till the time results don't come, they have to stay in these centres. We have taken these steps to stop the border transmission," said Ajaz Asad District Commissioner, Srinagar. "Yesterday, a passenger from Bandipora who had come from Saudi Arabia tested positive and there are four such samples which are inconclusive. The moment we get the results of these, the ones who come positive will be sent to DRDO Hospital and those who will test negative will be asked to home-quarantine for a week.''

The tourists who are landing in Srinagar are finding it difficult to adhere to these new rules by the Srinagar administration. They say that they have not explained the new protocols. One such American tourist in Srinagar was completely dissatisfied with the authorities' handling of the situation. She, along with other tourists, were unhappy about their travel.

''They told me to wait and get tested and I don't know what's the protocol,&nbsp;nobody explained to me. I waited for two or three hours and they told me to get tested again. Then they took us to quarantine. First, they told one day, then seven days. This is inhumane what they are doing to everybody,"&nbsp;said Itresha, an American tourist.&nbsp;"If the Indian government says if you test negative, it's fine, why are there different regulations here. You can't make your own rules as you go along, it's not right, it's inhumane. This is my first time here and I don't feel welcome here. I feel really bad for everyone who has to go through the same.'' &nbsp;

The marriage hall and two hotels with all facilities have been converted into the Quarantine centres. After the International travellers go through the covid tests at the Srinagar International Airport, they have to be quarantined at these facilities till the results come.&nbsp;

''I have landed in Srinagar this morning, central government had issued a list of countries where in those people need to be quarantined, but we are coming from Maldives. We said okay to RT-PCR but we are being told that if you come negative you have to stay at home for seven days; we don't live here and we can't be hotel bound for next seven days. There is no hot water or food here for us. It's difficult as we don't know anyone here and we are stuck,'' said Tushar Saxena, Delhi resident who returned from Maldives.&nbsp;

Jammu and Kashmir is also witnessing a surge in COVID-19 cases. The daily cases in the union territory have crossed 200 mark while 39 people have died last month due to the Covid related issues. In the last 24 hours, 177 new cases have been detected in Jammu Kashmir.&nbsp;

At a time when the world is facing the new variant 'Omicron' of COVID-19, the administration in Jammu and Kashmir has sprung into action. The administration has chalked out new rules and regulations for the international travellers coming to Kashmir Valley.

At a time when the world is facing the new variant 'Omicron' of COVID-19, the administration in Jammu and Kashmir has sprung into action. The administration has chalked out new rules and regulations for the international travellers coming to Kashmir Valley. All those people who are either tourists from different countries or locals who travelled abroad will have to be quarantined. The official quarantine will continue till the time test reports come, followed by home quarantine for one week. The Srinagar administration has set up three special quarantine centers for foreign tourists and locals who have traveled abroad. These facilities would be free of cost. The administration has also established paid quarantine centers where full medical arrangements will be made as well. WATCH | ''WHO has detected the new variant and says it is a cause of concern, they have called it Omicron. We have taken steps at the Srinagar airport, all tourists and locals coming from abroad will have to get a RT-PCR test done at the airport only. After taking the samples, we have set up quarantine centres and till the time results don't come, they have to stay in these centres. We have taken these steps to stop the border transmission," said Ajaz Asad District Commissioner, Srinagar. "Yesterday, a passenger from Bandipora who had come from Saudi Arabia tested positive and there are four such samples which are inconclusive. The moment we get the results of these, the ones who come positive will be sent to DRDO Hospital and those who will test negative will be asked to home-quarantine for a week.'' The tourists who are landing in Srinagar are finding it difficult to adhere to these new rules by the Srinagar administration. They say that they have not explained the new protocols. One such American tourist in Srinagar was completely dissatisfied with the authorities' handling of the situation. She, along with other tourists, were unhappy about their travel. ''They told me to wait and get tested and I don't know what's the protocol, nobody explained to me. I waited for two or three hours and they told me to get tested again. Then they took us to quarantine. First, they told one day, then seven days. This is inhumane what they are doing to everybody," said Itresha, an American tourist. "If the Indian government says if you test negative, it's fine, why are there different regulations here. You can't make your own rules as you go along, it's not right, it's inhumane. This is my first time here and I don't feel welcome here. I feel really bad for everyone who has to go through the same.'' The marriage hall and two hotels with all facilities have been converted into the Quarantine centres. After the International travellers go through the covid tests at the Srinagar International Airport, they have to be quarantined at these facilities till the results come. ''I have landed in Srinagar this morning, central government had issued a list of countries where in those people need to be quarantined, but we are coming from Maldives. We said okay to RT-PCR but we are being told that if you come negative you have to stay at home for seven days; we don't live here and we can't be hotel bound for next seven days. There is no hot water or food here for us. It's difficult as we don't know anyone here and we are stuck,'' said Tushar Saxena, Delhi resident who returned from Maldives. Jammu and Kashmir is also witnessing a surge in COVID-19 cases. The daily cases in the union territory have crossed 200 mark while 39 people have died last month due to the Covid related issues. In the last 24 hours, 177 new cases have been detected in Jammu Kashmir.

Omicron variant in India: New rules for international travellers coming to Kashmir Valley

India will have nine nuclear reactors by 2024 and a new nuclear project, the first in northern India, will come up 150 kms away from Delhi in Haryana's Gorakhpur, the government informed the Rajya Sabha.

Minister of State for Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions Jitendra Singh said, "By 2024 you will have nine nuclear reactors plus 12 new additional ones which were approved during the Covid times with a capacity of 9,000 MW. Five new sites are also being identified," in different parts of the country.

Replying to supplementaries during the Question Hour, he said what is remarkable is that unlike in the past when nuclear plants were limited to a few states like Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, the department has now moved northwards.

"We are going to have a nuclear project, the first of its kind, in North India just about 150 kms from Delhi in a small township called Gorakhpur in Haryana," said Mr Singh, also Minister of State in Prime Minister's Office.

Asked whether the government is thinking of phasing out nuclear power plants on account of safety, the minister said, "We have not only increased the number but are also trying to make a pan-India generation project."

The minister said that nuclear energy will soon emerge as one of the most important sources of alternative or clean energy for the increasing power demand of the country.

As far as the cost is concerned, though it varies from plant to plant and on the age of the plant, Singh said on an average it comes to about&nbsp;Rs&nbsp;&nbsp;3 per unit and while the Kudankulam plant has about&nbsp;Rs&nbsp; 4 per unit and Tarapur has lesser cost.

But in the times to come, with more plants the cost would reduce, he said.

Mr Singh said it was during the tenure of this government that a bulk approval of 10 indigenous reactors was done in a single cabinet decision, which is a record in itself and has never happened in the history of independent India.

In order to promote the setting up of new projects and to overcome the financial constraints that are faced in such situations, the Prime Minister took an out-of-box decision of allowing the atomic energy department to enter into joint ventures, which was never happening before, and the insurance pool has also been increased, Mr Singh told the upper house.

On the expansion of Kudankulan nuclear plant, the Minister also said that "hopefully in 2021, we plan to start the construction of unit 5 and unit 6 as well."

Within the two terms of the present government, he said the Kudankulam plant will have as many as six units whereas in the earlier UPA government hardly the first unit was in progress.

Mr Singh said in 2017-18 there was a generation of 38,336 mega units of power, while this year ending 2020 despite the Covid pandemic it has been 46,472 mega units. During Covid itself we have increased the power generation by more than 4000 mega units in nuclear plans, he said.

The minister said in spite of the Covid pandemic, because of the extra impetus given by the Prime Minister to the enhancement of atomic energy generation and setting up of new units of the reactor, the Kudankulam plant has been progressively showing new constructions and generation.

On whether the atomic energy sector has suffered cuts in the budget due to Covid, the minister said in 2019, the Prime Minister took a decision to give us a&nbsp;₹&nbsp;10,000 crore per year budget and this year also we had a budget of&nbsp;₹&nbsp;17,796 crore. For next 10 years also, there is a plan to increase the budget by&nbsp;₹&nbsp;10,000 crore per year, he said.

The minister also informed that earlier, most of our nuclear projects were with the support of Russia and France and now more and more of our reactors are becoming indigenous.

"The Budget proposed by DAE (Department of Atomic Energy) for Capital expenditure during 2021-22 was&nbsp;₹&nbsp;17,796.24 crore and approved BE 2021-22 for Capital Expenditure is Rs11,403.20 Crore. There is a shortfall of&nbsp;₹&nbsp;6393.04 crore.

"However, it is brought out that due to COVID-19 Pandemic, the situation had not completely normalised at Project sites till the first half of 2021-22. Therefore, no major adverse impact is anticipated on the progress of various ongoing projects, the minister said in his written reply.

India will have nine nuclear reactors by 2024 and a new nuclear project, the first in northern India, will come up 150 kms away from Delhi in Haryana's Gorakhpur, the government informed the Rajya Sabha.

India will have nine nuclear reactors by 2024 and a new nuclear project, the first in northern India, will come up 150 kms away from Delhi in Haryana's Gorakhpur, the government informed the Rajya Sabha. Minister of State for Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions Jitendra Singh said, "By 2024 you will have nine nuclear reactors plus 12 new additional ones which were approved during the Covid times with a capacity of 9,000 MW. Five new sites are also being identified," in different parts of the country. Replying to supplementaries during the Question Hour, he said what is remarkable is that unlike in the past when nuclear plants were limited to a few states like Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, the department has now moved northwards. "We are going to have a nuclear project, the first of its kind, in North India just about 150 kms from Delhi in a small township called Gorakhpur in Haryana," said Mr Singh, also Minister of State in Prime Minister's Office. Asked whether the government is thinking of phasing out nuclear power plants on account of safety, the minister said, "We have not only increased the number but are also trying to make a pan-India generation project." The minister said that nuclear energy will soon emerge as one of the most important sources of alternative or clean energy for the increasing power demand of the country. As far as the cost is concerned, though it varies from plant to plant and on the age of the plant, Singh said on an average it comes to about Rs 3 per unit and while the Kudankulam plant has about Rs 4 per unit and Tarapur has lesser cost. But in the times to come, with more plants the cost would reduce, he said. Mr Singh said it was during the tenure of this government that a bulk approval of 10 indigenous reactors was done in a single cabinet decision, which is a record in itself and has never happened in the history of independent India. In order to promote the setting up of new projects and to overcome the financial constraints that are faced in such situations, the Prime Minister took an out-of-box decision of allowing the atomic energy department to enter into joint ventures, which was never happening before, and the insurance pool has also been increased, Mr Singh told the upper house. On the expansion of Kudankulan nuclear plant, the Minister also said that "hopefully in 2021, we plan to start the construction of unit 5 and unit 6 as well." Within the two terms of the present government, he said the Kudankulam plant will have as many as six units whereas in the earlier UPA government hardly the first unit was in progress. Mr Singh said in 2017-18 there was a generation of 38,336 mega units of power, while this year ending 2020 despite the Covid pandemic it has been 46,472 mega units. During Covid itself we have increased the power generation by more than 4000 mega units in nuclear plans, he said. The minister said in spite of the Covid pandemic, because of the extra impetus given by the Prime Minister to the enhancement of atomic energy generation and setting up of new units of the reactor, the Kudankulam plant has been progressively showing new constructions and generation. On whether the atomic energy sector has suffered cuts in the budget due to Covid, the minister said in 2019, the Prime Minister took a decision to give us a ₹ 10,000 crore per year budget and this year also we had a budget of ₹ 17,796 crore. For next 10 years also, there is a plan to increase the budget by ₹ 10,000 crore per year, he said. The minister also informed that earlier, most of our nuclear projects were with the support of Russia and France and now more and more of our reactors are becoming indigenous. "The Budget proposed by DAE (Department of Atomic Energy) for Capital expenditure during 2021-22 was ₹ 17,796.24 crore and approved BE 2021-22 for Capital Expenditure is Rs11,403.20 Crore. There is a shortfall of ₹ 6393.04 crore. "However, it is brought out that due to COVID-19 Pandemic, the situation had not completely normalised at Project sites till the first half of 2021-22. Therefore, no major adverse impact is anticipated on the progress of various ongoing projects, the minister said in his written reply.

India announces 'first of its kind' nuclear programme, to have 9 nuclear reactors by 2024

While being transferred to Jodhpur airfield in Rajasthan, a tyre from an Indian Air Force (IAF) Mirage Fighter plane was stolen from a moving truck in Lucknow.

On November 27, six new Mirage-2000 fighter jet tyres were being carried on a truck from Bakshi-Ka-Talab airfield in Lucknow to Jodhpur airbase when the incident occurred near Shaheed Path in Uttar Pradesh's capital.

According to sources, the incident occurred during a traffic gridlock on Shaheed Path.

Taking advantage of the circumstance, several criminals ripped the tyre's tying strap and stole the tyre.&nbsp;

The Ashiana police station has filed a FIR, and the Lucknow police have commenced their investigation.

The footage from the CCTV cameras installed at Shaheed Path is being examined in order to solve the crime.&nbsp;

The incident occurred between 12:30 am and 1 am, according to the truck driver.

There were also eight distinct goods on the truck, including a refueller vehicle (1), universal trolley (1), bomb trolley), seven-step ladder (1), co2 trolley (2), aircraft main tyres (5), and aircraft nose tyres (5). (6).&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

While being transferred to Jodhpur airfield in Rajasthan, a tyre from an Indian Air Force (IAF) Mirage Fighter plane was stolen from a moving truck in Lucknow. On November 27, six new Mirage-2000 fighter jet tyres were being carried on a truck from Bakshi-Ka-Talab airfield in Lucknow to Jodhpur airbase when the incident occurred near Shaheed Path in Uttar Pradesh's capital.

While being transferred to Jodhpur airfield in Rajasthan, a tyre from an Indian Air Force (IAF) Mirage Fighter plane was stolen from a moving truck in Lucknow. On November 27, six new Mirage-2000 fighter jet tyres were being carried on a truck from Bakshi-Ka-Talab airfield in Lucknow to Jodhpur airbase when the incident occurred near Shaheed Path in Uttar Pradesh's capital. According to sources, the incident occurred during a traffic gridlock on Shaheed Path. Taking advantage of the circumstance, several criminals ripped the tyre's tying strap and stole the tyre. The Ashiana police station has filed a FIR, and the Lucknow police have commenced their investigation. The footage from the CCTV cameras installed at Shaheed Path is being examined in order to solve the crime. The incident occurred between 12:30 am and 1 am, according to the truck driver. There were also eight distinct goods on the truck, including a refueller vehicle (1), universal trolley (1), bomb trolley), seven-step ladder (1), co2 trolley (2), aircraft main tyres (5), and aircraft nose tyres (5). (6). (With inputs from agencies)

Tyre of India's Mirage fighter plane stolen from truck on its way to Jodhpur airbase

Supply chain disruptions and booming demand for consumer electronics have led to an acute shortage of semiconductors. Automakers globally have been forced to make sharp production cuts this year.

Automakers globally have been forced to make sharp production cuts this year

As alarm over the new Covid strain, Omicron, spreads, World Health Organisation’s chief scientist Soumya Swaminathan on Thursday said the only way to tackle against any new variants is to get fully vaccinated.

“Regardless of the variant, complete vaccination is likely to protect against severe disease and deaths, especially in older age groups,” Swaminathan wrote on Twitter, adding that the goal now ought to be to protect those around the world who currently have not had access to any COVID-19 jabs.

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Regardless of the variant, complete vaccination is likely to protect against severe disease and deaths, especially in older age groups, as observed in these countries <a href="https://t.co/Bz5sw8aHCO">https://t.co/Bz5sw8aHCO</a>
— Soumya Swaminathan (@doctorsoumya) <a href="https://twitter.com/doctorsoumya/status/1466394679570837509?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Omicron variant was designated as ‘variant of concern’ by the WHO last week after they came to the conclusion that it was “highly likely” that the new strain can escape immunity caused by previous infection or vaccination, because of the presence of over 30 mutations on its spike protein.

The new variant has forced all the countries to reinforce travel bans amid concerns over the spread of the virus.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/omicron-in-india-dont-need-fear-says-health-ministry-as-first-2-cases-found-one-patient-fully-vaccinated-433526">Omicron in India: Don't need fear, says health ministry as first 2 cases found; one patient fully vaccinated</a>

More than 56 countries were reportedly implementing travel measures aimed at potentially delaying the importation of the new variant.

The WHO has slammed nations for creating hype and panic over the new variant.

It was “certainly a worry” that scientists may be dissuaded from revealing new information about variants after seeing what has happened to southern Africa, WHO’s Covid-19 technical lead Dr Maria Van Kerkhove was quoted as saying.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/omicron-no-kissing-under-mistletoe-this-christmas-advises-british-politician-433630">Omicron: No kissing under mistletoe this Christmas, advises British politician</a>

Following the news about the Omicron variant from South Africa and Botswana, many countries including the US, and the UK, moved to bring in travel bans or quarantines for travellers from a number of African countries.

First reported to the WHO less than a week ago after being detected in southern Africa earlier this month, Omicron has already appeared in several countries.

(With inputs from agencies)

As alarm over the new Covid strain, Omicron, spreads, World Health Organisation’s chief scientist Soumya Swaminathan on Thursday said the only way to tackle against any new variants is to get fully vaccinated.

As alarm over the new Covid strain, Omicron, spreads, World Health Organisation’s chief scientist Soumya Swaminathan on Thursday said the only way to tackle against any new variants is to get fully vaccinated. “Regardless of the variant, complete vaccination is likely to protect against severe disease and deaths, especially in older age groups,” Swaminathan wrote on Twitter, adding that the goal now ought to be to protect those around the world who currently have not had access to any COVID-19 jabs. Regardless of the variant, complete vaccination is likely to protect against severe disease and deaths, especially in older age groups, as observed in these countries https://t.co/Bz5sw8aHCO — Soumya Swaminathan (@doctorsoumya) December 2, 2021 × Omicron variant was designated as ‘variant of concern’ by the WHO last week after they came to the conclusion that it was “highly likely” that the new strain can escape immunity caused by previous infection or vaccination, because of the presence of over 30 mutations on its spike protein. The new variant has forced all the countries to reinforce travel bans amid concerns over the spread of the virus. Also read | Omicron in India: Don't need fear, says health ministry as first 2 cases found; one patient fully vaccinated More than 56 countries were reportedly implementing travel measures aimed at potentially delaying the importation of the new variant. The WHO has slammed nations for creating hype and panic over the new variant. It was “certainly a worry” that scientists may be dissuaded from revealing new information about variants after seeing what has happened to southern Africa, WHO’s Covid-19 technical lead Dr Maria Van Kerkhove was quoted as saying. Also read | Omicron: No kissing under mistletoe this Christmas, advises British politician Following the news about the Omicron variant from South Africa and Botswana, many countries including the US, and the UK, moved to bring in travel bans or quarantines for travellers from a number of African countries. First reported to the WHO less than a week ago after being detected in southern Africa earlier this month, Omicron has already appeared in several countries. (With inputs from agencies)

Regardless of variant, complete vaccination key to protect against death, Covid disease: WHO

India's health ministry urged responsibility, not fear, as it confirmed on Thursday that two cases of Omicron variant of coronavirus have been found in the country.&nbsp;

Both the cases were reported from the southern Karnataka&nbsp;state. Two males, aged 66 and 46, have tested positive.&nbsp;

According to Bengaluru civic authorities, the 66-year-old foreigner had come to Bengaluru city on November 20 from South Africa, while the 46-year-old is a health worker from Bengaluru.

The foreigner was fully vaccinated, while the other had received one dose.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Three primary contacts and two secondary contacts of the 46-year-old male tested positive between 22nd and 25th November. All are isolated," the civic authorities said in a statement.

"Two people found positive for the Omicron variant of COVID19. One person is about a 66-year-old, South African national, who has gone back. Another person is a 46-year-old doctor. He doesn't have any travel history,"&nbsp;Karnataka's health minister Dr K Sudhakar said.

"Out of his (doctor's) primary &amp; secondary contact, five people tested positive for COVID-19. So, a total of six people have been isolated&nbsp;and admitted to a government hospital. None of them are showing any serious symptoms. All these people are fully vaccinated," he&nbsp;added.

The minister further said that the foreigner has left for South Africa via Dubai, adding, "He had presented a negative certificate for the virus&nbsp;from a private lab. His primary and secondary contacts (total 264) were found negative. So, it means to say that his certificate may be true."

Symptoms of the two patients have been mild, according to the officials.&nbsp; All cases reported till now have not been found with any severe symptoms, they said.

“All Omicron related cases are found to have mild symptoms so far...In all such cases in the country and across the world so far, no severe symptom has been noted. WHO has said that its emerging evidence is being studied,” Lav Agarwal, Joint Secretary, Union Health Ministry, said.

Watch

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/two-cases-of-omicron-covid-19-variant-detected-in-karnataka-indian-health-ministry-433548/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"We need not panic about Omicron detection but awareness is absolutely essential. Follow Covid-appropriate behaviour and avoid gatherings," said Balram Bhargava, director general of the Indian Council for Medical Research (ICMR), adding that increased COVID-19 vaccine uptake was the need of the hour.

"Do not delay in getting fully vaccinated," he said.

The government stated that 373 cases of Omicron variant of SARS-CoV-2 have been detected in 29 nations so far and India was monitoring the situation.

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All "at-risk" flights incoming are first thermal-screened and RTPCR test is being done on them. Till now 10 positive cases have been found in those who arrived from at-risk countries.&nbsp;They have been genome-sequenced and monitored.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/two-fully-vaccinated-israeli-doctors-get-infected-with-omicron-variant-433249">Two fully vaccinated Israeli doctors get infected with Omicron variant</a>

India has placed 11 countries under the “at-risk category”. They are: the UK, South Africa, Brazil, Botswana, China, Zimbabwe, Mauritius, New Zealand, Hong Kong, Singapore and Israel.

“Omicron's characteristics and impact are still being researched. Diagnostic tests are working," he said, adding that&nbsp;vaccinations will be protective.&nbsp;

The officials said that Omicron's characteristics and impact are still being researched, adding that&nbsp;diagnostic tests are working and&nbsp;vaccinations will be protective.

They noted that the countries that have taken the restrictions lightly are now re-introducing measures.

Noting that masks are very important, the officials urged to keep using them and avoid crowds and stay in ventilated places.

Surveillance on International travellers should be increased, while inside the country, clusters should be properly monitored, they added.

India's health ministry urged responsibility, not fear, as it confirmed on Thursday that two cases of Omicron variant of coronavirus have been found in the country.

India's health ministry urged responsibility, not fear, as it confirmed on Thursday that two cases of Omicron variant of coronavirus have been found in the country. Both the cases were reported from the southern Karnataka state. Two males, aged 66 and 46, have tested positive. According to Bengaluru civic authorities, the 66-year-old foreigner had come to Bengaluru city on November 20 from South Africa, while the 46-year-old is a health worker from Bengaluru. The foreigner was fully vaccinated, while the other had received one dose. "Three primary contacts and two secondary contacts of the 46-year-old male tested positive between 22nd and 25th November. All are isolated," the civic authorities said in a statement. "Two people found positive for the Omicron variant of COVID19. One person is about a 66-year-old, South African national, who has gone back. Another person is a 46-year-old doctor. He doesn't have any travel history," Karnataka's health minister Dr K Sudhakar said. "Out of his (doctor's) primary & secondary contact, five people tested positive for COVID-19. So, a total of six people have been isolated and admitted to a government hospital. None of them are showing any serious symptoms. All these people are fully vaccinated," he added. The minister further said that the foreigner has left for South Africa via Dubai, adding, "He had presented a negative certificate for the virus from a private lab. His primary and secondary contacts (total 264) were found negative. So, it means to say that his certificate may be true." Symptoms of the two patients have been mild, according to the officials. All cases reported till now have not been found with any severe symptoms, they said. “All Omicron related cases are found to have mild symptoms so far...In all such cases in the country and across the world so far, no severe symptom has been noted. WHO has said that its emerging evidence is being studied,” Lav Agarwal, Joint Secretary, Union Health Ministry, said. Watch "We need not panic about Omicron detection but awareness is absolutely essential. Follow Covid-appropriate behaviour and avoid gatherings," said Balram Bhargava, director general of the Indian Council for Medical Research (ICMR), adding that increased COVID-19 vaccine uptake was the need of the hour. "Do not delay in getting fully vaccinated," he said. The government stated that 373 cases of Omicron variant of SARS-CoV-2 have been detected in 29 nations so far and India was monitoring the situation. Also read | Omicron chaos: A list of countries that have reported cases of new variant All "at-risk" flights incoming are first thermal-screened and RTPCR test is being done on them. Till now 10 positive cases have been found in those who arrived from at-risk countries. They have been genome-sequenced and monitored. Also read | Two fully vaccinated Israeli doctors get infected with Omicron variant India has placed 11 countries under the “at-risk category”. They are: the UK, South Africa, Brazil, Botswana, China, Zimbabwe, Mauritius, New Zealand, Hong Kong, Singapore and Israel. “Omicron's characteristics and impact are still being researched. Diagnostic tests are working," he said, adding that vaccinations will be protective. The officials said that Omicron's characteristics and impact are still being researched, adding that diagnostic tests are working and vaccinations will be protective. They noted that the countries that have taken the restrictions lightly are now re-introducing measures. Noting that masks are very important, the officials urged to keep using them and avoid crowds and stay in ventilated places. Surveillance on International travellers should be increased, while inside the country, clusters should be properly monitored, they added.

Omicron in India: Don't need fear, says health ministry as first 2 cases found; one patient fully vaccinated

At least 380 passengers from Omicron 'at-risk' countries arrived in Indian state of Odisha in two days, said officials on Thursday.

State's Public Health Director Niranjan Mishra said that 224 persons returned to Odisha on November 28 while 156 arrived on November 29.

India on Thursday (December 2) reported first two cases of Omicron variant in the country. Two male patients were found to carry the infection. The cases have been found in southern Indian state of Karnataka.&nbsp;

Odisha Public Health Director Niranjan Mishra said that information about arrivals from 'at-risk' countries has been shared with district administrations.&nbsp;

It has been made mandatory that all passengers arriving from the foreign countries will have to undergo RT-PCR test before entering the state.

Those found positive will immediately be sent to isolation and the swab samples will be sent for genome sequencing, Mishra said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/live-omicron-in-india-updates-two-cases-found-in-karnataka-433212">Click here for LIVE updates on the Omicron threat</a>

If the test report comes negative, the traveller or returnee will have to remain under seven-day home quarantine mandatorily and again undergo another round of Covid-19 test on the eighth day, the director said.

After that, the concerned person will also remain under self-observation for another seven days. In total, one person will have to remain under surveillance for at least 14 days, he added.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/omicron-in-india-dont-need-fear-says-health-ministry-as-first-2-cases-found-433526">Omicron in India: Don't need fear, says health ministry as first 2 cases found</a>

Meanwhile, 33 students of a Plus II residential college in Dhenkanal town of Odisha tested Covid-19 positive. The local authority sealed college buildings and its hostel, and declared it as a micro containment zone.

More than 70 students of medical college in Burla of Sambalpur district, 53 girl students of a government-run high school in Sundargarh and 26 students of a tribal school in Mayurbhanj district have tested positive for the virus in the past few days.

(With inputs from agencies)

At least 380 passengers from Omicron 'at-risk' countries arrived in Indian state of Odisha in two days, said officials on Thursday. State's Public Health Director Niranjan Mishra said that 224 persons returned to Odisha on November 28 while 156 arrived on November 29.

At least 380 passengers from Omicron 'at-risk' countries arrived in Indian state of Odisha in two days, said officials on Thursday. State's Public Health Director Niranjan Mishra said that 224 persons returned to Odisha on November 28 while 156 arrived on November 29. India on Thursday (December 2) reported first two cases of Omicron variant in the country. Two male patients were found to carry the infection. The cases have been found in southern Indian state of Karnataka. Odisha Public Health Director Niranjan Mishra said that information about arrivals from 'at-risk' countries has been shared with district administrations. It has been made mandatory that all passengers arriving from the foreign countries will have to undergo RT-PCR test before entering the state. Those found positive will immediately be sent to isolation and the swab samples will be sent for genome sequencing, Mishra said. Click here for LIVE updates on the Omicron threat If the test report comes negative, the traveller or returnee will have to remain under seven-day home quarantine mandatorily and again undergo another round of Covid-19 test on the eighth day, the director said. After that, the concerned person will also remain under self-observation for another seven days. In total, one person will have to remain under surveillance for at least 14 days, he added. Also Read | Omicron in India: Don't need fear, says health ministry as first 2 cases found Meanwhile, 33 students of a Plus II residential college in Dhenkanal town of Odisha tested Covid-19 positive. The local authority sealed college buildings and its hostel, and declared it as a micro containment zone. More than 70 students of medical college in Burla of Sambalpur district, 53 girl students of a government-run high school in Sundargarh and 26 students of a tribal school in Mayurbhanj district have tested positive for the virus in the past few days. (With inputs from agencies)

Omicron in India: 300+ arrived in Odisha from 'at-risk' countries in two days

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Horrific Storm and scary winds wreaks havoc in Turkey

Ride-hailing company Uber has collaborated with Meta to book rides through WhatsApp in India.

The feature will initially be launched in Lucknow, the capital of India's most populous state Uttar Pradesh, and then expanded to other locations by next year.

According to Nandini Maheshwari, senior director of business development for Uber, "We want to make it as easy as possible for all Indians to take an Uber trip, and to do that we need to meet them on platforms they are comfortable with."

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WhatsApp's chat interface will be used by those looking for Uber ride where they will need to register to proceed further.

They can book a ride through either messaging to Uber's business account number, scanning a barcode, or clicking a link directly to open an Uber WhatsApp chat.

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Abhijit Bose, the head of WhatsApp India said, "The Uber experience on WhatsApp is simple, familiar, and relatable for users and has the potential to accelerate adoption of Uber with a new category of riders in India."

The first of its kind integration could help Uber tap into the more than 500 million user base of Meta Platforms-owned WhatsApp in India.

Uber has been operating in the Asian country for the past eight years and is now available in 70 cities. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Ride-hailing company Uber has collaborated with Meta to book rides through WhatsApp in India. The feature will initially be launched in Lucknow, the capital of India's most populous state Uttar Pradesh, and then expanded to other locations by next year.

Ride-hailing company Uber has collaborated with Meta to book rides through WhatsApp in India. The feature will initially be launched in Lucknow, the capital of India's most populous state Uttar Pradesh, and then expanded to other locations by next year. According to Nandini Maheshwari, senior director of business development for Uber, "We want to make it as easy as possible for all Indians to take an Uber trip, and to do that we need to meet them on platforms they are comfortable with." Also read | Indian govt in high court defends IT rule requiring WhatsApp to trace originator of message WhatsApp's chat interface will be used by those looking for Uber ride where they will need to register to proceed further. They can book a ride through either messaging to Uber's business account number, scanning a barcode, or clicking a link directly to open an Uber WhatsApp chat. Also read | Facebook, Instagram stop working yet again; Twitterati open bag of memes Abhijit Bose, the head of WhatsApp India said, "The Uber experience on WhatsApp is simple, familiar, and relatable for users and has the potential to accelerate adoption of Uber with a new category of riders in India." The first of its kind integration could help Uber tap into the more than 500 million user base of Meta Platforms-owned WhatsApp in India. Uber has been operating in the Asian country for the past eight years and is now available in 70 cities. (With inputs from agencies)

Uber collaborates with Meta to book rides through WhatsApp in India

As India's capital Delhi continues to battle pollution that has engulfed the region, in the latest announcement, all schools will remain shut, news agency ANI reported citing Environment Minister Gopal Rai. This comes after the Supreme Court slammed the Capital's government for reopening schools amid increasing air pollution levels.&nbsp;

"All schools in Delhi to be closed from tomorrow till further orders, due to current air pollution levels in the city," said Rai.&nbsp; 
Meanwhile, the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR), the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) in the

Indian capital slipped to 368 in the 'very poor' category on Friday morning.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pollution-indian-capitals-overall-air-quality-slips-to-very-poor-category-432089">Also read |&nbsp;Pollution: Indian capital’s overall air quality slips to 'very poor' category</a>

In a bulletin, SAFAR said, "Local surface winds are relatively low for the next three days that reduce the dispersion of pollutants leading to the deterioration of air quality but within the 'upper end of very poor' category." &nbsp;

An AQI of 350 and 463 were recorded in Gurugram and Noida respectively in the "very poor" and "severe" categories.&nbsp;

Earlier, about 50 per cent of the Delhi government staff was asked to work from home. Private companies were also encouraged to do the same.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

As India's capital Delhi continues to battle pollution that has engulfed the region, in the latest announcement, all schools will remain shut, news agency ANI reported citing Environment Minister Gopal Rai.

As India's capital Delhi continues to battle pollution that has engulfed the region, in the latest announcement, all schools will remain shut, news agency ANI reported citing Environment Minister Gopal Rai. This comes after the Supreme Court slammed the Capital's government for reopening schools amid increasing air pollution levels. "All schools in Delhi to be closed from tomorrow till further orders, due to current air pollution levels in the city," said Rai. Meanwhile, the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR), the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) in the Indian capital slipped to 368 in the 'very poor' category on Friday morning. Also read | Pollution: Indian capital’s overall air quality slips to 'very poor' category In a bulletin, SAFAR said, "Local surface winds are relatively low for the next three days that reduce the dispersion of pollutants leading to the deterioration of air quality but within the 'upper end of very poor' category." An AQI of 350 and 463 were recorded in Gurugram and Noida respectively in the "very poor" and "severe" categories. Earlier, about 50 per cent of the Delhi government staff was asked to work from home. Private companies were also encouraged to do the same. (With inputs from agencies)

As India's capital continues to battle pollution, schools closed again till further notice

With the IMD forecast of a cyclonic storm reaching Odisha coast on December 4, the state government on Wednesday asked collectors of 13 districts to prepare for the evacuation of the people and has chalked out a disaster management strategy by requisitioning NDRF, ODRAF and fire department personnel for rescue and relief operation.

The forecast said that the low-pressure area in the south Andaman Sea will intensify into a depression and move towards the coast as a cyclonic storm on December 4 and the Coast Guard has initiated extensive pre-emptive measures in the eastern coast keeping it in view.

The Coast Guard Disaster Relief Teams (DRTs) with inflatable boats, lifeboats&nbsp;and life jackets are on standby for disaster response operations, a post by the Defence public relations officer in Chennai said.

Medical teams and ambulances have been kept ready for swift mobilisation, it said.

The district authorities in some places are asking farmers over the public address system to harvest their ripe paddy crops, the state chief secretary said.

Fishermen have been advised to not venture into the southeast and adjoining the east-central Bay of Bengal on December 2 and 3, into west-central and adjoining northwest Bay of Bengal and along and off north Andhra Pradesh,&nbsp;Odisha and&nbsp;West Bengal coasts from December 3 to 5, state relief commissioner P K Jena said.

The sea condition is likely to be very rough with the squally wind speed reaching 45 to 55 kmph, gusting to 65 kmph on December 3.

The wind speed is likely to reach 80 kmph gusting to 90 kmph on December 4 morning, an advisory said.&nbsp;No immediate warning has been issued to the ports so far.

The IMD said that the low-pressure area brewing over the south Andaman Sea and the adjoining area will intensify into a depression and take the shape of a cyclonic storm around December 3.

The system will move northwestwards and reach north Andhra Pradesh-Odisha coast around December 4.

With the IMD forecast of a cyclonic storm reaching Odisha coast on December 4, the state government on Wednesday asked collectors of 13 districts to prepare for the evacuation of the people and has chalked out a disaster management strategy by requisitioning NDRF, ODRAF and fire department personnel for rescue and relief operation.

With the IMD forecast of a cyclonic storm reaching Odisha coast on December 4, the state government on Wednesday asked collectors of 13 districts to prepare for the evacuation of the people and has chalked out a disaster management strategy by requisitioning NDRF, ODRAF and fire department personnel for rescue and relief operation. The forecast said that the low-pressure area in the south Andaman Sea will intensify into a depression and move towards the coast as a cyclonic storm on December 4 and the Coast Guard has initiated extensive pre-emptive measures in the eastern coast keeping it in view. The Coast Guard Disaster Relief Teams (DRTs) with inflatable boats, lifeboats and life jackets are on standby for disaster response operations, a post by the Defence public relations officer in Chennai said. Medical teams and ambulances have been kept ready for swift mobilisation, it said. The district authorities in some places are asking farmers over the public address system to harvest their ripe paddy crops, the state chief secretary said. Fishermen have been advised to not venture into the southeast and adjoining the east-central Bay of Bengal on December 2 and 3, into west-central and adjoining northwest Bay of Bengal and along and off north Andhra Pradesh, Odisha and West Bengal coasts from December 3 to 5, state relief commissioner P K Jena said. The sea condition is likely to be very rough with the squally wind speed reaching 45 to 55 kmph, gusting to 65 kmph on December 3. The wind speed is likely to reach 80 kmph gusting to 90 kmph on December 4 morning, an advisory said. No immediate warning has been issued to the ports so far. The IMD said that the low-pressure area brewing over the south Andaman Sea and the adjoining area will intensify into a depression and take the shape of a cyclonic storm around December 3. The system will move northwestwards and reach north Andhra Pradesh-Odisha coast around December 4.

Odisha to evacuate people after cyclonic storm warning; NDRF on alert

India on Wednesday decided to postpone resuming international flight operations which were due to start from December 15.

The country had suspended international flights&nbsp;in March 2020 as the coronavirus pandemic began to surge worldwide.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-experts-studying-scientific-reports-on-need-for-covid-booster-dose-says-govt-433030">Also Read:&nbsp;Indian experts studying scientific reports on need for Covid booster dose, says govt</a>

The Indian government had decided to allow international flight operations last week.

However, after the Omicron variant cases were reported in several countries in the few days, India's aviation regulator Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) said due to the "evolving global scenario" the decision has been postponed.

The DGCA said an "appropriate decision" on a new date for the resumption of international flights will be announced in due course without setting a timeline. International flights have been operating through the "air bubble" agreement between governments of various countries.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/omicron-update-live-france-to-allow-southern-african-flights-to-land-from-saturday-433212">Also Read:&nbsp;Omicron update LIVE: Two fully vaccinated Israeli doctors get infected with Omicron</a>&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had earlier asked officials to review the plans for easing international travel restrictions as nations worldwide moved to impose travel ban on South Africa and other southern African countries.

Civil aviation minister Jyotiraditya Scindia told Parliament that in "view of the evolving global scenario with the emergence of new variants of concern the situation" the situation is being closely monitored.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/will-covishield-work-against-omicron-it-will-be-clear-in-2-3-weeks-says-serum-institutes-poonawalla-433016">Also Read:&nbsp;Will Covishield work against Omicron? It will be clear in 2-3 weeks, says Serum Institute</a>

The minister added any further decision will be taken after consultation with other ministries

Meanwhile, reports said&nbsp;Mumbai airport authorities have&nbsp;put the new coronavirus guidelines in place for international passengers as authorities began taking steps to detect the new variant.

(With inputs from Agencies) 
&nbsp;

India on Wednesday decided to postpone resuming international flight operations which were due to start from December 15. The country had suspended international flights in March 2020 as the coronavirus pandemic began to surge worldwide.

India on Wednesday decided to postpone resuming international flight operations which were due to start from December 15. The country had suspended international flights in March 2020 as the coronavirus pandemic began to surge worldwide. Also Read: Indian experts studying scientific reports on need for Covid booster dose, says govt The Indian government had decided to allow international flight operations last week. However, after the Omicron variant cases were reported in several countries in the few days, India's aviation regulator Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) said due to the "evolving global scenario" the decision has been postponed. The DGCA said an "appropriate decision" on a new date for the resumption of international flights will be announced in due course without setting a timeline. International flights have been operating through the "air bubble" agreement between governments of various countries. Also Read: Omicron update LIVE: Two fully vaccinated Israeli doctors get infected with Omicron Prime Minister Narendra Modi had earlier asked officials to review the plans for easing international travel restrictions as nations worldwide moved to impose travel ban on South Africa and other southern African countries. Civil aviation minister Jyotiraditya Scindia told Parliament that in "view of the evolving global scenario with the emergence of new variants of concern the situation" the situation is being closely monitored. Also Read: Will Covishield work against Omicron? It will be clear in 2-3 weeks, says Serum Institute The minister added any further decision will be taken after consultation with other ministries Meanwhile, reports said Mumbai airport authorities have put the new coronavirus guidelines in place for international passengers as authorities began taking steps to detect the new variant. (With inputs from Agencies)

Omicron alert: India postpones resuming international flight operations

India joined the G20 Troika on Wednesday. The troika now consists of Indonesia, Italy and India.

The G20 is the premier forum for international economic cooperation, which reflects a recognition that global prosperity is interdependent and our economic opportunities and challenges are interlinked, MEA said in a release.G20 countries have come together to better prepare for the future.&nbsp;

As a founding member of the grouping, India has used the platform to raise issues of vital importance globally

Indonesia has assumed the G20 Presidency today and will convene various G20 meetings throughout the year culminating with the G20 Leaders` Summit on October 30-31, 2022 under the overall theme of&nbsp;

"Recover Together Recover Stronger".As a Troika-member, India will work closely with Indonesia and Italy to ensure consistency and continuity of the G20`s agenda, MEA said.

India will assume the G20 Presidency on December 1, 2022, from Indonesia and will convene the G20 Leaders` Summit for the first time in India in 2023.

India joined the G20 Troika on Wednesday. The troika now consists of Indonesia, Italy and India. The G20 is the premier forum for international economic cooperation, which reflects a recognition that global prosperity is interdependent and our economic opportunities and challenges are interlinked, MEA said in a release.

India joined the G20 Troika on Wednesday. The troika now consists of Indonesia, Italy and India. The G20 is the premier forum for international economic cooperation, which reflects a recognition that global prosperity is interdependent and our economic opportunities and challenges are interlinked, MEA said in a release.G20 countries have come together to better prepare for the future. As a founding member of the grouping, India has used the platform to raise issues of vital importance globally Indonesia has assumed the G20 Presidency today and will convene various G20 meetings throughout the year culminating with the G20 Leaders` Summit on October 30-31, 2022 under the overall theme of "Recover Together Recover Stronger".As a Troika-member, India will work closely with Indonesia and Italy to ensure consistency and continuity of the G20`s agenda, MEA said. India will assume the G20 Presidency on December 1, 2022, from Indonesia and will convene the G20 Leaders` Summit for the first time in India in 2023.

India becomes part of G20 Troika, to host summit in 2023

The Kashmir Valley was recently listed by UNESCO among the creative cities of the world. The valley has innumerable&nbsp;arts and crafts. And one such craft is Glazed pottery.

The glazed tiles and other items have been made for centuries in the valley but the art was on the verge of extinction.

A 26-year-old commerce graduate from Srinagar's Nishat area, Mohamad Omar Kumar has taken it upon himself to revive the craft. Omar has learnt the art from the only person alive in Kashmir valley knowing the craft. And with the help of Jammu and Kashmir's Handicraft department, Omar was able to set up a unit to make these items.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kashmir-apple-orchards-might-not-sustain-climatic-changes-farmers-losing-upto-40-percent-crop-every-year-432750" hreflang="en">Kashmir: Apple orchards might not sustain climatic changes</a>

''My grandfather and father have been doing pottery. But In the beginning I was not interested but once I finished studies I got to know that Glazed pottery is at the verge of extinction. It caught my attention and I searched more. There was only one old man in the Khanyar area of srinagar making the glazed&nbsp;tiles and other stuff. Even that person's children did not take it up. I went to him and learnt for around 6 months. I learnt how to make glazed pottery from him as he is the only person alive knowing the art. I thought of reviving the art and bringing it back to life. I did a lot of hard work. I learned how to make these glazed items here. The glaze is made at home with things which we generally throw away. '' said Mohamad Omar Kumar, Artisan.&nbsp;

The Jammu and Kashmir government has various schemes for the revival of endangered&nbsp;arts of the Kashmir Valley. Among them was Glazed pottery. The government helps artisans establish units and also provide them with raw material as well as stipend. The Jammu and Kashmir governments want to make Srinagar into a craft destination.&nbsp;

''The department of Handicraft launched a policy where we revive critically endangered crafts and glazed pottery is one of the craft which we are endeavouring to revive. We approached&nbsp;this entrepreneur, who was inclined&nbsp;in starting his enterprise of glazed pottery manufacturer. He did his basic training from one of the old teachers. From our intervention under KarKhanDar Scheme, we help in the form of raw material. We also provide stipend to the trainer and also to the trainee so it's a win-win situation for all. Our craft is revived and we incentivised the revival process. We are happy that intervention has borne fruit. Revival of one endangered craft has been accomplished. We want to approach more such individuals who are interested in these critically endangered crafts. This becomes even more critical in view of UNESCO creative city listing wherein we will be pitching&nbsp;in as a craft destination. '' said Mehmood Shah,Director, Handicrafts.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kashmiris-prefer-kangri-to-keep-themselves-warm-in-sub-zero-temperature-431435" hreflang="en">Kashmiris prefer Kangri to keep themselves warm in sub-zero temperature</a>

The Kashmiri tiles were used centuries ago in palaces as well as traditional Kashmiri homes. But with time, people started using ceramic tiles and with no market, the artisans were left with no choice but to stop production. And now the artisans like Omar are trying to bring back the Kashmiri Tiles in the market. Within a short span of time, He has received&nbsp;orders from across the country for these tiles.&nbsp;

''We are not unemployed, we have made ourselves as such. We have so much art here and if we take up all these arts again, no one in the Kashmir valley would be unemployed. Our older generations have left us with so much craft and art, we just need to work on it. The clay tiles I started making were completely&nbsp;finished but now I am making them again with a different&nbsp;design and I have so many orders in a short span of time. I can't manage it alone on my own. We need more and more people taking this up. It's our responsibility to bring alive all these arts. '' said Mohamad Omar Kumar, Artisan.&nbsp;

The government is helping Omar in every possible way. As the orders increase, the government is helping him to meet the growing demand for these items.&nbsp;

''In the years gone by we used to manufacture these glazed clay tiles. In fact&nbsp;our museum has one of the diverse collections of tiles. And The manufacture and baking of tiles is a historical process which has been carried out here and these tiles were all seen in all old houses but we nowaday we are finding it difficult to source but with this intervention we have a source who can churn out tiles. In Fact we are working with him and we are also helping him with production increase. Since it has gotten a lot of attention, people are interested in buying stuff from him so we also have to make sure of the production. '' said Mehmood Shah,Director, Handicrafts.&nbsp;

The Srinagar city has made it to the UNESCO list of creative cities and now the government aims at making the summer capital of Jammu Kashmir into a craft destination.&nbsp;

The Kashmir Valley was recently listed by UNESCO among the creative cities of the world. The valley has innumerable arts and crafts. And one such craft is Glazed pottery.

The Kashmir Valley was recently listed by UNESCO among the creative cities of the world. The valley has innumerable arts and crafts. And one such craft is Glazed pottery. The glazed tiles and other items have been made for centuries in the valley but the art was on the verge of extinction. A 26-year-old commerce graduate from Srinagar's Nishat area, Mohamad Omar Kumar has taken it upon himself to revive the craft. Omar has learnt the art from the only person alive in Kashmir valley knowing the craft. And with the help of Jammu and Kashmir's Handicraft department, Omar was able to set up a unit to make these items. Also read | Kashmir: Apple orchards might not sustain climatic changes ''My grandfather and father have been doing pottery. But In the beginning I was not interested but once I finished studies I got to know that Glazed pottery is at the verge of extinction. It caught my attention and I searched more. There was only one old man in the Khanyar area of srinagar making the glazed tiles and other stuff. Even that person's children did not take it up. I went to him and learnt for around 6 months. I learnt how to make glazed pottery from him as he is the only person alive knowing the art. I thought of reviving the art and bringing it back to life. I did a lot of hard work. I learned how to make these glazed items here. The glaze is made at home with things which we generally throw away. '' said Mohamad Omar Kumar, Artisan. The Jammu and Kashmir government has various schemes for the revival of endangered arts of the Kashmir Valley. Among them was Glazed pottery. The government helps artisans establish units and also provide them with raw material as well as stipend. The Jammu and Kashmir governments want to make Srinagar into a craft destination. ''The department of Handicraft launched a policy where we revive critically endangered crafts and glazed pottery is one of the craft which we are endeavouring to revive. We approached this entrepreneur, who was inclined in starting his enterprise of glazed pottery manufacturer. He did his basic training from one of the old teachers. From our intervention under KarKhanDar Scheme, we help in the form of raw material. We also provide stipend to the trainer and also to the trainee so it's a win-win situation for all. Our craft is revived and we incentivised the revival process. We are happy that intervention has borne fruit. Revival of one endangered craft has been accomplished. We want to approach more such individuals who are interested in these critically endangered crafts. This becomes even more critical in view of UNESCO creative city listing wherein we will be pitching in as a craft destination. '' said Mehmood Shah,Director, Handicrafts. Also read | Kashmiris prefer Kangri to keep themselves warm in sub-zero temperature The Kashmiri tiles were used centuries ago in palaces as well as traditional Kashmiri homes. But with time, people started using ceramic tiles and with no market, the artisans were left with no choice but to stop production. And now the artisans like Omar are trying to bring back the Kashmiri Tiles in the market. Within a short span of time, He has received orders from across the country for these tiles. ''We are not unemployed, we have made ourselves as such. We have so much art here and if we take up all these arts again, no one in the Kashmir valley would be unemployed. Our older generations have left us with so much craft and art, we just need to work on it. The clay tiles I started making were completely finished but now I am making them again with a different design and I have so many orders in a short span of time. I can't manage it alone on my own. We need more and more people taking this up. It's our responsibility to bring alive all these arts. '' said Mohamad Omar Kumar, Artisan. The government is helping Omar in every possible way. As the orders increase, the government is helping him to meet the growing demand for these items. ''In the years gone by we used to manufacture these glazed clay tiles. In fact our museum has one of the diverse collections of tiles. And The manufacture and baking of tiles is a historical process which has been carried out here and these tiles were all seen in all old houses but we nowaday we are finding it difficult to source but with this intervention we have a source who can churn out tiles. In Fact we are working with him and we are also helping him with production increase. Since it has gotten a lot of attention, people are interested in buying stuff from him so we also have to make sure of the production. '' said Mehmood Shah,Director, Handicrafts. The Srinagar city has made it to the UNESCO list of creative cities and now the government aims at making the summer capital of Jammu Kashmir into a craft destination.

Reviving Kashmir’s dying crafts, youth becomes an inspiration to bring back glazed pottery

According to a communication from India’s Ministry of External Affairs, 10 fishermen who were captured by Myanmar Coast Guard, earlier this year, would be repatriated by Friday.

Indian fishing boat ‘Subha Tree Sea Food’ and its 10 crew were captured from the Diglipur, North and Middle sea area on April 11,&nbsp;2021.

The Indian Government had formally requested the Myanmarese counterparts to grant amnesty to the fishermen on humanitarian grounds.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/trained-hard-blended-with-indian-culture-learnt-hindi-foreign-trainees-tell-wion-at-indian-naval-academy-432743" hreflang="en">'Trained hard, blended with Indian culture, learnt Hindi,' foreign trainees tell WION at Indian Naval Academy</a>

The fishermen are expected to board an Air India flight from Yangon to New Delhi on Thursday, after undergoing COVID-19 tests at the former.

Five of the fishermen belong to Tamil Nadu, three to Andaman and Nicobar Islands and the remaining are from West Bengal.&nbsp;

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10 Indian fishermen (from TN, WB &amp; Andaman) to be repatriated from Myanmar, where they have been held captive(since April this yr) for alleged trespass while fishing in North Andaman sea 
 
They are expected to land in Delhi by Thursday.. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/fishing?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#fishing</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/fisherman?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#fisherman</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Indians?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Indians</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TamilNadu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TamilNadu</a> <a href="https://t.co/iDZdrvvfKP">pic.twitter.com/iDZdrvvfKP</a>
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Recently, the Tamil Nadu-based South Asian Fishermen Fraternity(SAFF) had written to the Human Rights authorities seeking help in getting the fishermen released. According to SAFF, the trawler with the ten fishermen sailed from Junglisghat Fihs landing Centre on&nbsp;April 4 and headed for fishing in Diglipur(North Andaman sea), when they were arrested by the Myanmar Coast Guard for alleged trespass into their waters.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/would-like-to-thank-india-for-being-our-greatest-development-partner-maldivian-defence-minister-tells-wion-432778" hreflang="en">'Would like to thank India for being our greatest development partner,' Maldivian defence minister tells WION</a>

In their request to the authorities, the SAFF had said that the fishermen were the lone breadwinners of their families and that their captured boat was their lone source of income. Following these requests from a consortium of fishermen associations, the authorities moved to secure the release of the captured fishermen.&nbsp;

According to a communication from India’s Ministry of External Affairs, 10 fishermen who were captured by Myanmar Coast Guard, earlier this year, would be repatriated by Friday.

According to a communication from India’s Ministry of External Affairs, 10 fishermen who were captured by Myanmar Coast Guard, earlier this year, would be repatriated by Friday. Indian fishing boat ‘Subha Tree Sea Food’ and its 10 crew were captured from the Diglipur, North and Middle sea area on April 11, 2021. The Indian Government had formally requested the Myanmarese counterparts to grant amnesty to the fishermen on humanitarian grounds. Also read | 'Trained hard, blended with Indian culture, learnt Hindi,' foreign trainees tell WION at Indian Naval Academy The fishermen are expected to board an Air India flight from Yangon to New Delhi on Thursday, after undergoing COVID-19 tests at the former. Five of the fishermen belong to Tamil Nadu, three to Andaman and Nicobar Islands and the remaining are from West Bengal. 10 Indian fishermen (from TN, WB & Andaman) to be repatriated from Myanmar, where they have been held captive(since April this yr) for alleged trespass while fishing in North Andaman sea They are expected to land in Delhi by Thursday.. #fishing #fisherman #Indians #TamilNadu pic.twitter.com/iDZdrvvfKP — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) December 1, 2021 × Recently, the Tamil Nadu-based South Asian Fishermen Fraternity(SAFF) had written to the Human Rights authorities seeking help in getting the fishermen released. According to SAFF, the trawler with the ten fishermen sailed from Junglisghat Fihs landing Centre on April 4 and headed for fishing in Diglipur(North Andaman sea), when they were arrested by the Myanmar Coast Guard for alleged trespass into their waters. Also read | 'Would like to thank India for being our greatest development partner,' Maldivian defence minister tells WION In their request to the authorities, the SAFF had said that the fishermen were the lone breadwinners of their families and that their captured boat was their lone source of income. Following these requests from a consortium of fishermen associations, the authorities moved to secure the release of the captured fishermen.

250-day long wait ends, Indian fishermen held in Myanmar to be repatriated by Friday

Maharashtra's state health department reported on Tuesday that six passengers arriving from South Africa and other high-risk countries tested positive for Coronavirus and their samples are being sent for genome sequencing. This happened amid concerns over Omicron, the new variant of SARS-CoV2.

Of those who have come from South Africa and other countries, three have been discovered in Mumbai, Kalyan-Dombivali, Mira-Bhayandar, and Pune, while a fourth was found in Mira-Bhayandar. Two other passengers from Nigeria were located in Pimpri-Chinchwad, a corporation located near Pune.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-experts-studying-scientific-reports-on-need-for-covid-booster-dose-says-govt-433030" hreflang="en">Indian experts studying scientific reports on need for Covid booster dose, says govt</a>

"Currently, there are six passengers who arrived from South Africa or other high-risk countries in the state who have tested positive. The samples of all of them have been sent for genetic sequencing and their contact tracing exercise is underway. All these passengers, although tested COVID-19 positive, are either asymptomatic or mildly symptomatic," the health department said.

As of November 26, the World Health Organization (WHO) dubbed the coronavirus detected in South Africa and some other countries as Omicron.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/omicron-threat-covaxin-maker-bharat-biotech-studying-if-vaccine-works-against-variant-433020" hreflang="en">Omicron threat: Covaxin maker Bharat Biotech studying if vaccine works against variant</a>

'Variant of Concern' classification has also been given to the Omicron variant, according to experts, it is possible that the virus takes on some distinctive characteristics due to its genetic modification.

Although this new variant appears to have increased the transmissibility of infection, it is still unclear whether or not it will cause severe disease and whether it will evade immunity. Additional information should become available in the next few weeks.

Maharashtra has imposed a seven-day quarantine on travellers from 'at-risk' countries arriving in the state due to concerns over the Omicron variant of coronavirus.

Watch |&nbsp;India issues travel advisory for international passengers over Omicron variant

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-issues-travel-advisory-for-international-passengers-over-omicron-variant-432825/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The State Disaster Management Authority on Tuesday night issued the guidelines, an official said. 
The list of at-risk countries is announced by the Union government.

The countries listed as 'at-risk' are the European countries, the United Kingdom, South Africa, Brazil, Botswana, China, Mauritius, New Zealand, Zimbabwe, Singapore, Hong Kong, and Israel.

An RT-PCR test will also be administered to passengers from these countries on the second, fourth, and seventh days following their arrival, according to new guidelines from the authority.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/will-covishield-work-against-omicron-it-will-be-clear-in-2-3-weeks-says-serum-institutes-poonawalla-433016" hreflang="en">Will Covishield work against Omicron? It will be clear in 2-3 weeks, says Serum Institute’s Poonawalla</a>

Furthermore, those passengers who do not test positive will also be home-quarantined for seven days before they can be tested again.

"If they are found positive this time around, their samples too will be sent for genomic sequencing," the health bulletin said.

In accordance with the Centre's guidelines, RT-PCR tests will be performed on five per cent of passengers arriving from countries that are not listed, and any positive samples found will be sent for genomic sequencing.

(With inputs from agencies)

Maharashtra's state health department reported on Tuesday that six passengers arriving from South Africa and other high-risk countries tested positive for Coronavirus and their samples are being sent for genome sequencing.

Maharashtra's state health department reported on Tuesday that six passengers arriving from South Africa and other high-risk countries tested positive for Coronavirus and their samples are being sent for genome sequencing. This happened amid concerns over Omicron, the new variant of SARS-CoV2. Of those who have come from South Africa and other countries, three have been discovered in Mumbai, Kalyan-Dombivali, Mira-Bhayandar, and Pune, while a fourth was found in Mira-Bhayandar. Two other passengers from Nigeria were located in Pimpri-Chinchwad, a corporation located near Pune. Also read | Indian experts studying scientific reports on need for Covid booster dose, says govt "Currently, there are six passengers who arrived from South Africa or other high-risk countries in the state who have tested positive. The samples of all of them have been sent for genetic sequencing and their contact tracing exercise is underway. All these passengers, although tested COVID-19 positive, are either asymptomatic or mildly symptomatic," the health department said. As of November 26, the World Health Organization (WHO) dubbed the coronavirus detected in South Africa and some other countries as Omicron. Also read | Omicron threat: Covaxin maker Bharat Biotech studying if vaccine works against variant 'Variant of Concern' classification has also been given to the Omicron variant, according to experts, it is possible that the virus takes on some distinctive characteristics due to its genetic modification. Although this new variant appears to have increased the transmissibility of infection, it is still unclear whether or not it will cause severe disease and whether it will evade immunity. Additional information should become available in the next few weeks. Maharashtra has imposed a seven-day quarantine on travellers from 'at-risk' countries arriving in the state due to concerns over the Omicron variant of coronavirus. Watch | India issues travel advisory for international passengers over Omicron variant The State Disaster Management Authority on Tuesday night issued the guidelines, an official said. The list of at-risk countries is announced by the Union government. The countries listed as 'at-risk' are the European countries, the United Kingdom, South Africa, Brazil, Botswana, China, Mauritius, New Zealand, Zimbabwe, Singapore, Hong Kong, and Israel. An RT-PCR test will also be administered to passengers from these countries on the second, fourth, and seventh days following their arrival, according to new guidelines from the authority. Also read | Will Covishield work against Omicron? It will be clear in 2-3 weeks, says Serum Institute’s Poonawalla Furthermore, those passengers who do not test positive will also be home-quarantined for seven days before they can be tested again. "If they are found positive this time around, their samples too will be sent for genomic sequencing," the health bulletin said. In accordance with the Centre's guidelines, RT-PCR tests will be performed on five per cent of passengers arriving from countries that are not listed, and any positive samples found will be sent for genomic sequencing. (With inputs from agencies)

Maharashtra's Omicron scare: 6 passengers test coronavirus positive, Indian state releases new guidelines

Amid the Omicron variant of COVID-19 creating concern globally, Karnataka Health Minister Dr K Sudhakar on Monday said the sample of one of the two persons who arrived in Bengaluru recently from South Africa is 'different from the Delta variant'.

The minister said he was not supposed to say anything officially as he was still in touch with the union health ministry and the Indian Council for Medical Research officials.

"There is a delta variant for the past nine months only, but you are saying that one of the samples is Omicron. I cannot say aboutit officially. I am in touch with the ICMR and central government officials," Sudhakar told reporters here.

The sample has been sent to ICMR, he said.

Refusing to divulge the identity of the man, the minister said his COVID report shows that he has contracted a different variant of the novel coronavirus.

"There is a 63-year-old man whose name I should not disclose. His report is a bit different. It appears different from the delta variant. We will discuss with the ICMR officials and will let people know by the evening what it is," the minister said.

The minister said he would chair a marathon meeting on Tuesday with the officers of his department, from the Principal Secretary to the Primary Health Centre level doctors, regarding the steps to be taken.

He added that the members of the Technical Advisory Committee on COVID-19 have also been invited for the meeting.

Sudhakar also said that he has sought a detailed report on the Omicron variant.

"We will get a clear information on December 1 about how the Omicron behaves after the genomic sequencing. Accordingly we will initiate all measures," he explained.

Underlining the fact that the new variant is visible in at least 12 nations, Sudhakar said the international travellers will be tested carefully and those tested positive will be hospitalised compulsorily.

"We are tracking and closely watching all those who came from South Africa in the past 14 days. We have started tracing and testing their primary and secondary contacts since Saturday," the minister said.

Speaking about Omicron, Sudhakar, who himself is a medical professional, said he has also spoken to his classmate doctors working in South Africa, who told him that the new variant is not as dangerous as the delta variant.

"The satisfying thing I came across after talking to my classmates in South Africa is that this (Omicron variant) spreads rapidly, but it is not as dangerous like Delta.

People feel nausea and vomiting and sometimes the pulse rate goes up, but loss of taste and smell is not there. There is less hospitalisation because it's intensity is not severe," Sudhakar explained.

To a query on the possibility of a lockdown, Sudhakar said there was no such proposal before the government and there was no need to panic as people have already suffered losses due to the earlier lockdown in terms of loss of lives and livelihood.

According to health department officials, the two persons who flew into Bengaluru from South Africa tested positive for COVID-19 on November 11 and 20. Both were hospitalised, they added.

Amid the Omicron variant of COVID-19 creating concern globally, Karnataka Health Minister Dr K Sudhakar on Monday said the sample of one of the two persons who arrived in Bengaluru recently from South Africa is 'different from the Delta variant'.

Amid the Omicron variant of COVID-19 creating concern globally, Karnataka Health Minister Dr K Sudhakar on Monday said the sample of one of the two persons who arrived in Bengaluru recently from South Africa is 'different from the Delta variant'. The minister said he was not supposed to say anything officially as he was still in touch with the union health ministry and the Indian Council for Medical Research officials. "There is a delta variant for the past nine months only, but you are saying that one of the samples is Omicron. I cannot say aboutit officially. I am in touch with the ICMR and central government officials," Sudhakar told reporters here. The sample has been sent to ICMR, he said. Refusing to divulge the identity of the man, the minister said his COVID report shows that he has contracted a different variant of the novel coronavirus. "There is a 63-year-old man whose name I should not disclose. His report is a bit different. It appears different from the delta variant. We will discuss with the ICMR officials and will let people know by the evening what it is," the minister said. The minister said he would chair a marathon meeting on Tuesday with the officers of his department, from the Principal Secretary to the Primary Health Centre level doctors, regarding the steps to be taken. He added that the members of the Technical Advisory Committee on COVID-19 have also been invited for the meeting. Sudhakar also said that he has sought a detailed report on the Omicron variant. "We will get a clear information on December 1 about how the Omicron behaves after the genomic sequencing. Accordingly we will initiate all measures," he explained. Underlining the fact that the new variant is visible in at least 12 nations, Sudhakar said the international travellers will be tested carefully and those tested positive will be hospitalised compulsorily. "We are tracking and closely watching all those who came from South Africa in the past 14 days. We have started tracing and testing their primary and secondary contacts since Saturday," the minister said. Speaking about Omicron, Sudhakar, who himself is a medical professional, said he has also spoken to his classmate doctors working in South Africa, who told him that the new variant is not as dangerous as the delta variant. "The satisfying thing I came across after talking to my classmates in South Africa is that this (Omicron variant) spreads rapidly, but it is not as dangerous like Delta. People feel nausea and vomiting and sometimes the pulse rate goes up, but loss of taste and smell is not there. There is less hospitalisation because it's intensity is not severe," Sudhakar explained. To a query on the possibility of a lockdown, Sudhakar said there was no such proposal before the government and there was no need to panic as people have already suffered losses due to the earlier lockdown in terms of loss of lives and livelihood. According to health department officials, the two persons who flew into Bengaluru from South Africa tested positive for COVID-19 on November 11 and 20. Both were hospitalised, they added.

Sample of one person who came from South Africa is different from Delta, says Karnataka minister

In two to three weeks, it will be clear how effective Covishield vaccine is against COVID-19 variant Omicron, Adar Poonawalla, the chief of Serum Institute of India which manufactures the Indian version of the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine, told a news channel on Monday.

In an interview to NDTV, Poonawala said that Omicron-specific booster shots are possible and added that the focus of the government must remain to get everyone double vaccinated.

“The tests are on for Omicron, and we should have the results in a couple of weeks. The message for all - and a priority - is for everyone to get the 2 doses of the vaccine. That is the first step to stay protected. It is only after that that one can enhance that safety with boosters over the next year,” Poonawalla said.

"The Lancet has reported that Covishield's efficacy is very high and significantly reduces chances of hospitalisation and possibility of death... It is not necessary that the efficacy of Covishield would drop with time," he added, referring to the new study published in the peer-reviewed journal.

The drugmaker also said that they would soon be launching a new vaccine for kids who are above two years old.

When asked whether Covishield&nbsp;will be rolled out for kids, he said, “No. Our approach for vaccinating children will be with CovoVax - the new vaccine awaiting licencing in India and should be done soon. Our approach is to vaccinate children right down to the age of 2 years old with CovoVax.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-omicron-variant-causing-mild-disease-says-south-african-medical-association-slams-hype-432552">Covid: Omicron variant causing mild disease, says South African Medical Association, slams hype&nbsp;</a>

Poonawalla said the CovoVax will be available for children in the next 6 months.

The new variant, Omercon, has forced several nations to roll out a third dose or a booster shot to protect against the deadly virus.

Studies are currently underway to determine how vaccines are effective against the new strain.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/moderna-says-current-vaccines-not-effective-against-the-omicron-variant-432697">Moderna says current vaccines not effective against the Omicron variant</a>

Pfizer CEO Albert Bourla has said they have already started working on a version of its COVID-19 vaccine specifically targeting the new Omicron variant in case the current inoculation is not effective against the latest strain.

While Moderna Inc has said it was developing a booster shot against the new variant.

Another drugmaker Johnson &amp; Johnson announced on Monday that it is “pursuing an Omicron-specific variant vaccine and will progress it as needed.”

(With inputs from agencies)

In two to three weeks, it will be clear how effective Covishield vaccine is against COVID-19 variant Omicron, Adar Poonawalla, the chief of Serum Institute of India which manufactures the Indian version of the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine, told a news channel on Monday.

In two to three weeks, it will be clear how effective Covishield vaccine is against COVID-19 variant Omicron, Adar Poonawalla, the chief of Serum Institute of India which manufactures the Indian version of the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine, told a news channel on Monday. In an interview to NDTV, Poonawala said that Omicron-specific booster shots are possible and added that the focus of the government must remain to get everyone double vaccinated. “The tests are on for Omicron, and we should have the results in a couple of weeks. The message for all - and a priority - is for everyone to get the 2 doses of the vaccine. That is the first step to stay protected. It is only after that that one can enhance that safety with boosters over the next year,” Poonawalla said. "The Lancet has reported that Covishield's efficacy is very high and significantly reduces chances of hospitalisation and possibility of death... It is not necessary that the efficacy of Covishield would drop with time," he added, referring to the new study published in the peer-reviewed journal. The drugmaker also said that they would soon be launching a new vaccine for kids who are above two years old. When asked whether Covishield will be rolled out for kids, he said, “No. Our approach for vaccinating children will be with CovoVax - the new vaccine awaiting licencing in India and should be done soon. Our approach is to vaccinate children right down to the age of 2 years old with CovoVax.” Also read | Covid: Omicron variant causing mild disease, says South African Medical Association, slams hype Poonawalla said the CovoVax will be available for children in the next 6 months. The new variant, Omercon, has forced several nations to roll out a third dose or a booster shot to protect against the deadly virus. Studies are currently underway to determine how vaccines are effective against the new strain. Also read | Moderna says current vaccines not effective against the Omicron variant Pfizer CEO Albert Bourla has said they have already started working on a version of its COVID-19 vaccine specifically targeting the new Omicron variant in case the current inoculation is not effective against the latest strain. While Moderna Inc has said it was developing a booster shot against the new variant. Another drugmaker Johnson & Johnson announced on Monday that it is “pursuing an Omicron-specific variant vaccine and will progress it as needed.” (With inputs from agencies)

Will Covishield work against Omicron? It will be clear in 2-3 weeks, says Serum Institute’s Poonawalla

How hard is it for a 17-year old to leave home, family, and travel abroad to train at a Military Academy? New culture, new people, new language, new places, and a gruelling and transformative four-year-long training period… The list is endless.

Despite all these challenges, these young men and women assimilate, learn, grow and develop into fine Naval Officers at the Indian Naval Academy, Ezhimala, ready to go back and serve their respective Navy.&nbsp;

WION spoke to foreign personnel who completed their training at the Indian Naval Academy and formally passed out of the premier Naval training institution.

The INA trains young men and women, to be commissioned as officers of the Indian Navy and Coast Guard. INA is also the only Defence institution in India to handle ab-initio training for young men and women under both Short Service Commission, Permanent Commission.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/exclusive-maldives-hits-out-at-malicious-india-out-campaign-says-propaganda-by-corrupt-people-432448" hreflang="en">Exclusive: Maldives hits out at malicious ‘India out’ campaign, says propaganda by 'corrupt people'</a>

“Apart from training hard with the Indian cadets, we had the opportunity of blending with Indian Culture. We celebrated and enjoyed festivals such as Holi, Diwali and Onam… the brotherhood here and the love showered upon me by the fellow cadets and their families never let me feel like the foreigner in the last four years” Sub Lieutenant Isuru Senevirathne, from Sri Lanka told WION. Notably, he also spoke the same in fluent Hindi, which he had picked up and mastered during his time at the academy.&nbsp;

Walking into the INA, the trainees come from various cultural, linguistic, socio-economic backgrounds, but, once in the academy, they only have a single identity - as Naval officers in the making. In their crew cuts, glistening white uniforms and chiselled, lean-muscular physiques, it's hard to even identify one cadet from another.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/dont-subscribe-elon-musk-backed-starlink-services-till-it-gets-licence-indian-government-tells-public-432309">Also read |&nbsp;Don’t subscribe Elon Musk-backed Starlink services till it gets licence, Indian government tells public</a>

For Abdullazizi Omar Haji, from Tanzania, his first challenge was to improve his English language while at the Academy, in order to better understand the course and communicate with his course mates and instructors.&nbsp;

“I joined here after completing high school. My parents are teachers back home and I’m the youngest of four brothers.. Here, I picked up English slowly, with the help of my instructors, coursemates, and seniors, who helped me a lot. I’m also able to understand Hindi now” Omar Haji told WION.&nbsp;

Omar and Isuru were among the 231 trainees who had passed out as Naval Officers from the Indian Naval Academy, over the weekend. These cadets(commissioned as Naval Officer) had pursued different technical courses at the INA, spanning between six months, one year and four years. While the Indian Officers will go on to serve the Indian Navy, the foreign personnel will return to their respective countries.&nbsp;

As a part of Military diplomacy and in order to build stronger bridges of friendship, India’s Defence Institutions train military personnel from friendly foreign countries. This helps develop trust, bonding and camaraderie, and interoperability, between the forces. In recent decades, the Indian Navy alone has trained over 15,000 foreign personnel from over 46 countries.&nbsp;

How hard is it for a 17-year old to leave home, family, and travel abroad to train at a Military Academy? New culture, new people, new language, new places, and a gruelling and transformative four-year-long training period… The list is endless.

How hard is it for a 17-year old to leave home, family, and travel abroad to train at a Military Academy? New culture, new people, new language, new places, and a gruelling and transformative four-year-long training period… The list is endless. Despite all these challenges, these young men and women assimilate, learn, grow and develop into fine Naval Officers at the Indian Naval Academy, Ezhimala, ready to go back and serve their respective Navy. WION spoke to foreign personnel who completed their training at the Indian Naval Academy and formally passed out of the premier Naval training institution. The INA trains young men and women, to be commissioned as officers of the Indian Navy and Coast Guard. INA is also the only Defence institution in India to handle ab-initio training for young men and women under both Short Service Commission, Permanent Commission. Also read | Exclusive: Maldives hits out at malicious ‘India out’ campaign, says propaganda by 'corrupt people' “Apart from training hard with the Indian cadets, we had the opportunity of blending with Indian Culture. We celebrated and enjoyed festivals such as Holi, Diwali and Onam… the brotherhood here and the love showered upon me by the fellow cadets and their families never let me feel like the foreigner in the last four years” Sub Lieutenant Isuru Senevirathne, from Sri Lanka told WION. Notably, he also spoke the same in fluent Hindi, which he had picked up and mastered during his time at the academy. Walking into the INA, the trainees come from various cultural, linguistic, socio-economic backgrounds, but, once in the academy, they only have a single identity - as Naval officers in the making. In their crew cuts, glistening white uniforms and chiselled, lean-muscular physiques, it's hard to even identify one cadet from another. Also read | Don’t subscribe Elon Musk-backed Starlink services till it gets licence, Indian government tells public For Abdullazizi Omar Haji, from Tanzania, his first challenge was to improve his English language while at the Academy, in order to better understand the course and communicate with his course mates and instructors. “I joined here after completing high school. My parents are teachers back home and I’m the youngest of four brothers.. Here, I picked up English slowly, with the help of my instructors, coursemates, and seniors, who helped me a lot. I’m also able to understand Hindi now” Omar Haji told WION. Omar and Isuru were among the 231 trainees who had passed out as Naval Officers from the Indian Naval Academy, over the weekend. These cadets(commissioned as Naval Officer) had pursued different technical courses at the INA, spanning between six months, one year and four years. While the Indian Officers will go on to serve the Indian Navy, the foreign personnel will return to their respective countries. As a part of Military diplomacy and in order to build stronger bridges of friendship, India’s Defence Institutions train military personnel from friendly foreign countries. This helps develop trust, bonding and camaraderie, and interoperability, between the forces. In recent decades, the Indian Navy alone has trained over 15,000 foreign personnel from over 46 countries.

'Trained hard, blended with Indian culture, learnt Hindi,' foreign trainees tell WION at Indian Naval Academy

Expert groups in India are deliberating on the need for a booster, or additional, Covid dose, the country’s junior health minister informed the Rajya Sabha on Tuesday.

The health minister's response comes in the backdrop of growing fears on the possibility of Omicron variant entering the country. So far, no Covid cases of the new strain have been reported in India.

Union minister of state for health Bharati Pravin Pawar said the National Technical Advisory Group on Immunization (NTAGI) and National Expert Group on Vaccine Administration for COVID-19 (NEGVAC) are deliberating and considering scientific evidence for the need and justification for a booster dose.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netherlands-detected-omicron-cases-a-week-earlier-than-south-africa-dutch-authorities-433005">Netherlands detected Omicron cases a week earlier than South Africa: Dutch authorities</a>

Responding to a query on the stand of the Indian government on booster doses, Pawar in a written reply said some countries are providing booster doses of COVID-19 vaccine.

“The National Technical Advisory Group on Immunization (NTAGI) and National Expert Group on Vaccine Administration for COVID-19 (NEGVAC) are deliberating and considering scientific evidences related to dose schedule of COVID vaccines as well as the need and justification for booster dose,” she said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/will-covishield-work-against-omicron-it-will-be-clear-in-2-3-weeks-says-serum-institutes-poonawalla-433016">Will Covishield work against Omicron? It will be clear in 2-3 weeks, says Serum Institute’s Poonawalla</a>

There are over 36 countries who are currently administering booster shots to the people. The World Health Organisation (WHO) expert panel has also recommended that individuals with weaker immune systems should be offered an additional or booster shot of COVID-19 vaccine.

However, the Indian government has so far not indicated the need for a booster shot. In October, the government's chief Covid-19 advisor had said that there were no plans to give booster doses.

Doctor Vinod K&nbsp;Paul said there was no clear guidance on whether a third dose is necessary, including from the WHO.

“As of now we do not have a recommendation for a booster bump-up dose,” Paul told reporters, adding however that the government would “continue to watch this space very carefully”.

(With inputs from agencies)

Expert groups in India are deliberating on the need for a booster, or additional, Covid dose, the country’s junior health minister informed the Rajya Sabha on Tuesday.

Expert groups in India are deliberating on the need for a booster, or additional, Covid dose, the country’s junior health minister informed the Rajya Sabha on Tuesday. The health minister's response comes in the backdrop of growing fears on the possibility of Omicron variant entering the country. So far, no Covid cases of the new strain have been reported in India. Union minister of state for health Bharati Pravin Pawar said the National Technical Advisory Group on Immunization (NTAGI) and National Expert Group on Vaccine Administration for COVID-19 (NEGVAC) are deliberating and considering scientific evidence for the need and justification for a booster dose. Also read | Netherlands detected Omicron cases a week earlier than South Africa: Dutch authorities Responding to a query on the stand of the Indian government on booster doses, Pawar in a written reply said some countries are providing booster doses of COVID-19 vaccine. “The National Technical Advisory Group on Immunization (NTAGI) and National Expert Group on Vaccine Administration for COVID-19 (NEGVAC) are deliberating and considering scientific evidences related to dose schedule of COVID vaccines as well as the need and justification for booster dose,” she said. Also read | Will Covishield work against Omicron? It will be clear in 2-3 weeks, says Serum Institute’s Poonawalla There are over 36 countries who are currently administering booster shots to the people. The World Health Organisation (WHO) expert panel has also recommended that individuals with weaker immune systems should be offered an additional or booster shot of COVID-19 vaccine. However, the Indian government has so far not indicated the need for a booster shot. In October, the government's chief Covid-19 advisor had said that there were no plans to give booster doses. Doctor Vinod K Paul said there was no clear guidance on whether a third dose is necessary, including from the WHO. “As of now we do not have a recommendation for a booster bump-up dose,” Paul told reporters, adding however that the government would “continue to watch this space very carefully”. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian experts studying scientific reports on need for Covid booster dose, says govt

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