Why do powerful graphics cards need so much electricity?

Chris Van Hollen challenges Chuck Schumer for US Senate majority leader post; know his 'special' Pakistan connection

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

Who will replace Jensen Huang at Nvidia? 3 Indian-origin tech leaders emerge as possible contenders

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

Nuclear blast in space won't hit Earth directly. But what comes next will spell doom

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

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

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

India’s homegrown missile push gains pace with 200-acre Andhra Pradesh plan

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

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

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

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

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

Doomsday warning? Why governments are warning people to stockpile emergency supplies for 72 hours

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

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

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

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

India wins railway propulsion order from Japan, the home of bullet trains

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

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

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

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

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

Who is this girl wearing a man's torso? Meet Sofía Monroy, the 27-year-old Mexican-Swedish singer

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

After Venezuela and Iran, Trump sets sights on another military intervention before leaving office

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

Why do graphics cards have thousands of small processing cores?

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

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

Who is targeting US military bases in Britain? Drone scare at RAF Lakenheath raises alarm

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

Two passengers from South Africa tested positive for COVID-19 at an airport in India’ southern Karnataka state.

The authorities from the Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru city on Saturday said that their test samples have been sent to a virology lab to ascertain whether they are infected with Omicron variant of coronavirus.

The health department officials said the test results will take another 48 hours to arrive.

Both have been sent to quarantine centres, and they will stay there till their test results confirm the new variant.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/passengers-arriving-from-south-africa-at-amsterdam-airport-test-positive-for-covid-19-432380">Passengers arriving from South Africa at Amsterdam airport test positive for COVID-19</a>

Around 584 people landed in Bengaluru from 10 “high-risk” nations, out of which 94 individuals have come from South Africa alone, according to Bengaluru Rural Deputy Commissioner K Srinivas.

Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi convened a meeting with top bureaucrats to assess the Covid situation in the country.

During the meeting, Modi asked officials to review their order on easing international travel restrictions in the light of Omicron variant that is slowly being reported from various parts of the world.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/omicron-typical-mutations-were-found-in-a-traveller-says-german-minister-432392">Omicron-typical mutations were found in a traveller, says German minister</a>

He also asked officials to step up screening at all international airports and ensure that strict Covid guidelines are followed.

The prime minister highlighted the need for monitoring all international arrivals, their testing as per guidelines, with a specific focus on countries identified as 'at risk'.

The nations that are currently on the ‘at-risk’ list of India are – European countries, including the UK, South Africa, Brazil, Bangladesh, Botswana, China, Mauritius, New Zealand, Zimbabwe, Singapore, Hong Kong and Israel.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Two passengers from South Africa tested positive for COVID-19 at an airport in India’ southern Karnataka state. The authorities from the Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru city on Saturday said that their test samples have been sent to a virology lab to ascertain whether they are infected with Omicron variant of coronavirus.

Two passengers from South Africa tested positive for COVID-19 at an airport in India’ southern Karnataka state. The authorities from the Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru city on Saturday said that their test samples have been sent to a virology lab to ascertain whether they are infected with Omicron variant of coronavirus. The health department officials said the test results will take another 48 hours to arrive. Both have been sent to quarantine centres, and they will stay there till their test results confirm the new variant. Also read | Passengers arriving from South Africa at Amsterdam airport test positive for COVID-19 Around 584 people landed in Bengaluru from 10 “high-risk” nations, out of which 94 individuals have come from South Africa alone, according to Bengaluru Rural Deputy Commissioner K Srinivas. Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi convened a meeting with top bureaucrats to assess the Covid situation in the country. During the meeting, Modi asked officials to review their order on easing international travel restrictions in the light of Omicron variant that is slowly being reported from various parts of the world. Also read | Omicron-typical mutations were found in a traveller, says German minister He also asked officials to step up screening at all international airports and ensure that strict Covid guidelines are followed. The prime minister highlighted the need for monitoring all international arrivals, their testing as per guidelines, with a specific focus on countries identified as 'at risk'. The nations that are currently on the ‘at-risk’ list of India are – European countries, including the UK, South Africa, Brazil, Bangladesh, Botswana, China, Mauritius, New Zealand, Zimbabwe, Singapore, Hong Kong and Israel. (With inputs from agencies)

Two passengers from South Africa test Covid positive at India’s Bengaluru airport, quarantined

Despite Rafale, why is India still boosting its Mirage 2000 squadron?

Prime Minister on Saturday asked officials to reconsider plans on easing international travel restrictions in the light of the new coronavirus variant, Omircron, which has been classified as a variant of concern by the WHO.

On Friday, India had decided to resume international passenger flights from countries deemed "at risk" of the coronavirus, while ordering tightened border screening on the account of lower reported cases.

At a meeting to review the Covid situation, Modi “highlighted the need for monitoring all international arrivals, their testing as per guidelines, with a specific focus on countries identified ‘at risk’, after the WHO warned about “increased risk of reinfection with this variant”&nbsp;

So far, the United States, Canada, Russia, Britain, Israel, the Philippines and EU states have banned all travel from the southern African countries, where the new cases have been reported.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/omicron-what-does-variant-of-concern-mean-432361">Omicron: What does variant of concern mean?</a>

“Modi was briefed about the global trends on coronavirus cases and officials highlighted that countries across the world have experienced multiple COVID-19 surges since the onset of the pandemic,” a Prime Minister's Office (PMO) statement said.

Modi spoke about the need to be proactive in light of the new variant and said that people need to be more cautious and take proper precautions like masking up and maintaining social distance, according to the PMO.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/neither-nu-nor-xi-who-skips-two-greek-letters-for-naming-new-covid-variant-omicron-432328">Neither Nu nor Xi: WHO skips two Greek letters for naming new Covid variant Omicron &nbsp;</a>

“He directed that intensive containment and active surveillance should continue in clusters reporting higher cases and required technical support be provided to states which are reporting higher cases presently,” the statement said.

Modi told officials to accelerate second-dose coverage, it said.

Also Read |&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-warns-against-travel-curbs-due-to-new-variant-says-closely-monitoring-432286" hreflang="en">WHO warns against travel curbs due to new variant, says 'closely monitoring'</a>

The prime minister highlighted the need for monitoring all international arrivals, their testing as per guidelines, with a specific focus on countries identified as 'at risk'.

The meeting was attended by Cabinet Secretary Rajiv Gauba, Union Health Secretary Rajesh Bhushan and NITI Aayog member (health) Dr V K Paul, among others.

So far now, no cases of infection with the new variant have been reported in India.

The country has been witnessing a dip in new cases every day, as only 8,318 new Covid cases have been recorded on Saturday—a drop of 21% than Friday.,

The daily rise in new coronavirus infections has been below 20,000 for 50 continuous days and less than 50,000 daily new cases have been reported for 153 consecutive days now.

(With inputs from agencies)

Prime Minister on Saturday asked officials to reconsider plans on easing international travel restrictions in the light of the new coronavirus variant, Omircron, which has been classified as a variant of concern by the WHO.

Prime Minister on Saturday asked officials to reconsider plans on easing international travel restrictions in the light of the new coronavirus variant, Omircron, which has been classified as a variant of concern by the WHO. On Friday, India had decided to resume international passenger flights from countries deemed "at risk" of the coronavirus, while ordering tightened border screening on the account of lower reported cases. At a meeting to review the Covid situation, Modi “highlighted the need for monitoring all international arrivals, their testing as per guidelines, with a specific focus on countries identified ‘at risk’, after the WHO warned about “increased risk of reinfection with this variant” So far, the United States, Canada, Russia, Britain, Israel, the Philippines and EU states have banned all travel from the southern African countries, where the new cases have been reported. Also read | Omicron: What does variant of concern mean? “Modi was briefed about the global trends on coronavirus cases and officials highlighted that countries across the world have experienced multiple COVID-19 surges since the onset of the pandemic,” a Prime Minister's Office (PMO) statement said. Modi spoke about the need to be proactive in light of the new variant and said that people need to be more cautious and take proper precautions like masking up and maintaining social distance, according to the PMO. Also read | Neither Nu nor Xi: WHO skips two Greek letters for naming new Covid variant Omicron “He directed that intensive containment and active surveillance should continue in clusters reporting higher cases and required technical support be provided to states which are reporting higher cases presently,” the statement said. Modi told officials to accelerate second-dose coverage, it said. Also Read | WHO warns against travel curbs due to new variant, says 'closely monitoring' The prime minister highlighted the need for monitoring all international arrivals, their testing as per guidelines, with a specific focus on countries identified as 'at risk'. The meeting was attended by Cabinet Secretary Rajiv Gauba, Union Health Secretary Rajesh Bhushan and NITI Aayog member (health) Dr V K Paul, among others. So far now, no cases of infection with the new variant have been reported in India. The country has been witnessing a dip in new cases every day, as only 8,318 new Covid cases have been recorded on Saturday—a drop of 21% than Friday., The daily rise in new coronavirus infections has been below 20,000 for 50 continuous days and less than 50,000 daily new cases have been reported for 153 consecutive days now. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian PM Modi calls for review on easing international travel plans amid Omicron variant concerns

Passengers coming to Mumbai from South Africa will be quarantined and tested for the new coronavirus variant, Omicron—which has been described the World Health Organisation (WHO) as a variant of concern.

Moreover, the test samples collected would be sent for genome sequencing to check if the passengers are infected with the new Covid variant.

"There are concerns in Mumbai about the new variant of coronavirus. Genome sequencing of (positive) passengers coming from South Africa will be done. There is no restriction on outbound flights in any way. But this decision has been taken keeping in view past experience," Mumbai city’s mayor Kishori Pednekar said on Saturday.

“There is an increased risk of COVID-19 in other nations, so those coming from abroad will have to undergo genome test. I request everyone to maintain social distancing and wear masks so that this new menace can be stopped,” she added.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/neither-nu-nor-xi-who-skips-two-greek-letters-for-naming-new-covid-variant-omicron-432328">Neither Nu nor Xi: WHO skips two Greek letters for naming new Covid variant Omicron &nbsp;</a>

On Friday, the WHO classified the new variant that was first identified in southern Africa as a “variant of concern.”

In a&nbsp;statement, WHO said preliminary evidence suggested “an increased risk of reinfection with this variant” as it added the new discovery to the list of variants of concern, giving it the name "omicron."

Also Read |&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-warns-against-travel-curbs-due-to-new-variant-says-closely-monitoring-432286" hreflang="en">WHO warns against travel curbs due to new variant, says 'closely monitoring'</a>

WHO said the number of cases of the variant appeared to be rising in almost all provinces in South Africa.

It also said the variant had been detected “at faster rates than previous surges in infection, suggesting that this variant may have a growth advantage.”

(With inputs from agencies)

Passengers coming to Mumbai from South Africa will be quarantined and tested for the new coronavirus variant, Omicron—which has been described the World Health Organisation (WHO) as a variant of concern.

Passengers coming to Mumbai from South Africa will be quarantined and tested for the new coronavirus variant, Omicron—which has been described the World Health Organisation (WHO) as a variant of concern. Moreover, the test samples collected would be sent for genome sequencing to check if the passengers are infected with the new Covid variant. "There are concerns in Mumbai about the new variant of coronavirus. Genome sequencing of (positive) passengers coming from South Africa will be done. There is no restriction on outbound flights in any way. But this decision has been taken keeping in view past experience," Mumbai city’s mayor Kishori Pednekar said on Saturday. “There is an increased risk of COVID-19 in other nations, so those coming from abroad will have to undergo genome test. I request everyone to maintain social distancing and wear masks so that this new menace can be stopped,” she added. Also read | Neither Nu nor Xi: WHO skips two Greek letters for naming new Covid variant Omicron On Friday, the WHO classified the new variant that was first identified in southern Africa as a “variant of concern.” In a statement, WHO said preliminary evidence suggested “an increased risk of reinfection with this variant” as it added the new discovery to the list of variants of concern, giving it the name "omicron." Also Read | WHO warns against travel curbs due to new variant, says 'closely monitoring' WHO said the number of cases of the variant appeared to be rising in almost all provinces in South Africa. It also said the variant had been detected “at faster rates than previous surges in infection, suggesting that this variant may have a growth advantage.” (With inputs from agencies)

Quarantine, genome sequencing for passengers coming from South Africa to Mumbai, says city’s mayor

Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal V R Chaudhari will pay a five-day visit to Egypt beginning Sunday which is expected to bolster ties between the two countries.

The Indian Air Force (IAF) said he is visiting the country to attend the Egypt Air Power Symposium and Egyptian Defence Exposition (EDEX) which will take place in Cairo from November 28 to December 2.

"The Chief of Air Staff (CAS) would be attending the air power symposium at the invitation of the Egyptian Air Force commander and deliver a key note address on 'strategic air intelligence in confronting new and non-organised threats' on November 28," the IAF said in a statement.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Air Chief Mshl VR Chaudhari <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CAS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CAS</a> will be embarking on a 5 day visit to attend the Egypt Air Power Symposium &amp; Defence Exposition <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EDEX?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EDEX</a> scheduled from 28 Nov to 02 Dec. He will deliver a keynote address on "Strategic air intelligence in confronting new and non organised threats". <a href="https://t.co/zwajvTAm3P">pic.twitter.com/zwajvTAm3P</a>
— Indian Air Force (@IAF_MCC) <a href="https://twitter.com/IAF_MCC/status/1464467078342008838?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 27, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

It said the EDEX is fully supported by the Egyptian armed forces and exposes the attending dignitaries to the latest technology, equipment and systems across land, sea and air through live demos and static displays.

"The visit of CAS is expected to bolster the ties with the Egyptian armed forces. On the sidelines of the visit, the CAS would also be interacting with senior commanders of other armed forces of the world during the exposition," the IAF said.

Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal V R Chaudhari will pay a five-day visit to Egypt beginning Sunday which is expected to bolster ties between the two countries.

Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal V R Chaudhari will pay a five-day visit to Egypt beginning Sunday which is expected to bolster ties between the two countries. The Indian Air Force (IAF) said he is visiting the country to attend the Egypt Air Power Symposium and Egyptian Defence Exposition (EDEX) which will take place in Cairo from November 28 to December 2. "The Chief of Air Staff (CAS) would be attending the air power symposium at the invitation of the Egyptian Air Force commander and deliver a key note address on 'strategic air intelligence in confronting new and non-organised threats' on November 28," the IAF said in a statement. Air Chief Mshl VR Chaudhari #CAS will be embarking on a 5 day visit to attend the Egypt Air Power Symposium & Defence Exposition #EDEX scheduled from 28 Nov to 02 Dec. He will deliver a keynote address on "Strategic air intelligence in confronting new and non organised threats". pic.twitter.com/zwajvTAm3P — Indian Air Force (@IAF_MCC) November 27, 2021 × It said the EDEX is fully supported by the Egyptian armed forces and exposes the attending dignitaries to the latest technology, equipment and systems across land, sea and air through live demos and static displays. "The visit of CAS is expected to bolster the ties with the Egyptian armed forces. On the sidelines of the visit, the CAS would also be interacting with senior commanders of other armed forces of the world during the exposition," the IAF said.

IAF chief VR Chaudhari to embark on 5-day visit to Egypt

In a stern advisory, Indian government has told public on Friday that don’t subscribe to the satellite-based internet services of Starlink till it gets a licence in the country. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Starlink, which is a satellite broadband arm of Elon Musk-led SpaceX, is advertising about its services. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Starlink has been directed by the Department of Telecom to follow the regulatory framework for offering satellite-based services. It has also been told to refrain from booking or rendering the services in India "with immediate effect". &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/as-new-covid-variant-emerges-indian-pm-modi-chairs-vital-meeting-to-assess-situation-432294" hreflang="en">As new Covid variant emerges, Indian PM Modi chairs vital meeting to assess situation</a>

The government, in a statement, said that it has taken notice of Starlink starting pre-selling or booking of the satellite-based services in the country. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The Department of Telecom also observed that it is also evident from Starlink’s website, which says internet services can be booked by users in India. &nbsp;

"Department of Telecommunications, Ministry of Communications, Government of India has pointed out that 'Starlink Internet Services' is not licensed to offer satellite-based internet services in India being advertised to the public," the statement said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/reserve-bank-of-india-rejects-proposal-on-corporate-ownership-of-banks-432276" hreflang="en">Reserve Bank of India rejects proposal on corporate ownership of banks</a>

"It is hereby informed to the public at large that the said company has not obtained any license/authorisation for rendering satellite-based internet services that are being booked on their website," it said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The official statement said that as Starlink is not a licensee, "the public is advised not to subscribe to Starlink services being advertised." &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In a stern advisory, Indian government has told public on Friday that don’t subscribe to the satellite-based internet services of Starlink till it gets a licence in the country.

In a stern advisory, Indian government has told public on Friday that don’t subscribe to the satellite-based internet services of Starlink till it gets a licence in the country. Starlink, which is a satellite broadband arm of Elon Musk-led SpaceX, is advertising about its services. Starlink has been directed by the Department of Telecom to follow the regulatory framework for offering satellite-based services. It has also been told to refrain from booking or rendering the services in India "with immediate effect". Also Read: As new Covid variant emerges, Indian PM Modi chairs vital meeting to assess situation The government, in a statement, said that it has taken notice of Starlink starting pre-selling or booking of the satellite-based services in the country. The Department of Telecom also observed that it is also evident from Starlink’s website, which says internet services can be booked by users in India. "Department of Telecommunications, Ministry of Communications, Government of India has pointed out that 'Starlink Internet Services' is not licensed to offer satellite-based internet services in India being advertised to the public," the statement said. Also Read: Reserve Bank of India rejects proposal on corporate ownership of banks "It is hereby informed to the public at large that the said company has not obtained any license/authorisation for rendering satellite-based internet services that are being booked on their website," it said. The official statement said that as Starlink is not a licensee, "the public is advised not to subscribe to Starlink services being advertised." (With inputs from agencies)

Don’t subscribe Elon Musk-backed Starlink services till it gets licence, Indian government tells public

On the 13th anniversary of the dastardly 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, India summoned a senior diplomat of the Pakistani High Commission and asked Islamabad to ensure expeditious trial in the case.

Around 166 people, including 25 foreigners, died in the attack carried out by 10 Pakistani militants associated with the terror group Lashkar-e-Tayyiba between November 26 and November 29.

In a note verbale handed over to the diplomat, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) also asked Pakistan to abide by its commitment to not allow territories under its control for terrorism against India.

“It is a matter of deep anguish that even after 13 years of this heinous terror attack, the families of 166 victims from 15 countries across the globe still await closure, with Pakistan showing little sincerity in bringing the perpetrators to justice," it said in a statement.

The MEA asserted that the terror attack was planned, executed and launched from Pakistan’s territory.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
26/11- A day etched in our collective memory 
 
The world stands united in remembering the victims and seeking justice.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MumbaiTerrorAttacks?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MumbaiTerrorAttacks</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NeverForget?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NeverForget</a> <a href="https://t.co/T2237WCmb9">pic.twitter.com/T2237WCmb9</a>
— Arindam Bagchi (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1464063326095167493?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

“We once again call on the government of Pakistan to give up double standards and to expeditiously bring the perpetrators of the horrific attack to justice,” it said.

“This is not just a matter of Pakistan's accountability to the families of the innocent victims who fell to terrorists, but also an international obligation,” the MEA added.

It said India will continue to make every effort to seek justice for the families of the "victims and the martyrs" of the attack.

"On the 13th anniversary of the 26/11 Mumbai terrorist attacks, the government and people of India somberly remember the victims of this dastardly attack and the valiant security personnel who laid down their lives to protect ours," the MEA said.

Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid homage to the victims, saying that India cannot forget the wounds of the Mumbai attack.

“I pay homage to all those who died in the Mumbai attack. Many brave police personnel were also martyred in the strike. I also pay homage to them. India cannot forget the wounds of the Mumbai attack. Today's India is combating terrorism with a new policy and new ways,” the prime minister said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coincidence-or-conspiracy-did-pakistan-attempt-to-paralyse-indias-internal-security-during-2611-attacks-431987">Coincidence or conspiracy? Did Pakistan attempt to paralyse India's internal security during 26/11 attacks?</a>

World leaders also paid tributes to the victims who lost their lives in the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks in 2008.

United States Secretary Antony Blinken remembered the victims, including six Americans, and said it is long overdue for the perpetrators to face justice

“Thirteen years have passed since the 26/11 terrorist attack in Mumbai. On today’s anniversary, we remember the victims, including six Americans, and the resiliency of Mumbaikars. It is long overdue for the perpetrators to face justice,” he tweeted.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Thirteen years have passed since the 26/11 terrorist attack in Mumbai. On today’s anniversary, we remember the victims, including six Americans, and the resiliency of Mumbaikars. It is long overdue for the perpetrators to face justice.
— Secretary Antony Blinken (@SecBlinken) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecBlinken/status/1464226180568170496?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Israeli Ambassador to India Naor Gilon on Friday paid homage to those who lost their lives 13 years&nbsp;ago.&nbsp;

“Today India and Israel are joining in commemorating the terrible terror attack 13 years ago in Mumbai which targeted both Indian, Jews Israeli and international people. There are several commemorating ceremonies between India and Israel. We are united in mourning the terror attack and fight against terrorism,” Gilon said in a statement.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/2611-mumbai-terror-attacks-moviesshows-that-have-retold-the-horrific-incident-264627">26/11 Mumbai terror attacks: Movies/shows that have retold the horrific incident</a>

France also paid respects to victims of the terrorist attack.

French Ambassador to India Emmanuel Lenain tweeted, “France honours the memory of the victims of these despicable attacks. France and India stand together in solidarity and determination against terrorism in all its forms.”

(With inputs from agencies)

On the 13th anniversary of the dastardly 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, India summoned a senior diplomat of the Pakistani High Commission and asked Islamabad to ensure expeditious trial in the case.

On the 13th anniversary of the dastardly 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, India summoned a senior diplomat of the Pakistani High Commission and asked Islamabad to ensure expeditious trial in the case. Around 166 people, including 25 foreigners, died in the attack carried out by 10 Pakistani militants associated with the terror group Lashkar-e-Tayyiba between November 26 and November 29. In a note verbale handed over to the diplomat, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) also asked Pakistan to abide by its commitment to not allow territories under its control for terrorism against India. “It is a matter of deep anguish that even after 13 years of this heinous terror attack, the families of 166 victims from 15 countries across the globe still await closure, with Pakistan showing little sincerity in bringing the perpetrators to justice," it said in a statement. The MEA asserted that the terror attack was planned, executed and launched from Pakistan’s territory. 26/11- A day etched in our collective memory The world stands united in remembering the victims and seeking justice.#MumbaiTerrorAttacks#NeverForget pic.twitter.com/T2237WCmb9 — Arindam Bagchi (@MEAIndia) November 26, 2021 × “We once again call on the government of Pakistan to give up double standards and to expeditiously bring the perpetrators of the horrific attack to justice,” it said. “This is not just a matter of Pakistan's accountability to the families of the innocent victims who fell to terrorists, but also an international obligation,” the MEA added. It said India will continue to make every effort to seek justice for the families of the "victims and the martyrs" of the attack. "On the 13th anniversary of the 26/11 Mumbai terrorist attacks, the government and people of India somberly remember the victims of this dastardly attack and the valiant security personnel who laid down their lives to protect ours," the MEA said. Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid homage to the victims, saying that India cannot forget the wounds of the Mumbai attack. “I pay homage to all those who died in the Mumbai attack. Many brave police personnel were also martyred in the strike. I also pay homage to them. India cannot forget the wounds of the Mumbai attack. Today's India is combating terrorism with a new policy and new ways,” the prime minister said. Also read | Coincidence or conspiracy? Did Pakistan attempt to paralyse India's internal security during 26/11 attacks? World leaders also paid tributes to the victims who lost their lives in the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks in 2008. United States Secretary Antony Blinken remembered the victims, including six Americans, and said it is long overdue for the perpetrators to face justice “Thirteen years have passed since the 26/11 terrorist attack in Mumbai. On today’s anniversary, we remember the victims, including six Americans, and the resiliency of Mumbaikars. It is long overdue for the perpetrators to face justice,” he tweeted. Thirteen years have passed since the 26/11 terrorist attack in Mumbai. On today’s anniversary, we remember the victims, including six Americans, and the resiliency of Mumbaikars. It is long overdue for the perpetrators to face justice. — Secretary Antony Blinken (@SecBlinken) November 26, 2021 × Israeli Ambassador to India Naor Gilon on Friday paid homage to those who lost their lives 13 years ago. “Today India and Israel are joining in commemorating the terrible terror attack 13 years ago in Mumbai which targeted both Indian, Jews Israeli and international people. There are several commemorating ceremonies between India and Israel. We are united in mourning the terror attack and fight against terrorism,” Gilon said in a statement. Also read | 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks: Movies/shows that have retold the horrific incident France also paid respects to victims of the terrorist attack. French Ambassador to India Emmanuel Lenain tweeted, “France honours the memory of the victims of these despicable attacks. France and India stand together in solidarity and determination against terrorism in all its forms.” (With inputs from agencies)

‘Even after 13 years’: India summons Pak diplomat over delay in justice to 26/11 victims

The Reserve Bank of India has rejected a proposal by big business&nbsp;houses asking to mull on granting them banking license.

India's central bank has modified the rules of ownership and the corporate structure of private banks in India.

Under the new rules significant shareholders in a non-state bank, known as bank promoters, must only reduce their stake to 26 per cent&nbsp;stake after 15 years, the central bank said, rather than to the current limit of 15 per cent&nbsp;within that timeframe.

The new norms allow those who have already diluted stakes to hike their shareholding.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-crypto-investors-may-get-exit-time-if-govt-bans-trade-but-with-a-rider-report-431869" hreflang="en">Indian crypto investors may get exit time if govt bans trade: Report</a>

The Internal Working Group had made 33 recommendations, out of which the RBI has accepted 21.

"The remaining recommendations are under examination," the RBI said.

The central bank said payments banks must operate for at least five years before applying to become small finance banks (SFB), longer than the group's recommendation of three years of operations as sufficient to graduate into an SFB.

According to the RBI, ''This stipulation (concerning the dilution of promoters' stakes) should be uniform for all types of promoters and would not mean that promoters, who have already diluted their holdings to below 26 per cent, will not be permitted to raise it to 26&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;of the paid-up voting equity share capital of the bank.''&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/fifteen-more-countries-recognise-indias-covid-19-vaccination-certificate-mea-432225" hreflang="en">Fifteen more countries recognise India's COVID-19 vaccination certificate</a>

Non-promoter shareholdings will continue to be capped at 10 per cent&nbsp;for individuals and non-financial institutions but will be allowed up to 15&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;of the equity share capital of a bank in the case of all categories of financial institutions, supranational institutions, public sector bodies or government, the RBI said.

A year ago an RBI working group recommended that&nbsp;banking regulations be amended to allow large industrial groups to act as&nbsp;bank&nbsp;promoters and own big stakes in a lender.

Such a move could transform the country's&nbsp;banking landscape but is something the central&nbsp;bank&nbsp;has strongly resisted in the past.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Reserve Bank of India has rejected a proposal by big business houses asking to mull on granting them banking license. India's central bank has modified the rules of ownership and the corporate structure of private banks in India.

The Reserve Bank of India has rejected a proposal by big business houses asking to mull on granting them banking license. India's central bank has modified the rules of ownership and the corporate structure of private banks in India. Under the new rules significant shareholders in a non-state bank, known as bank promoters, must only reduce their stake to 26 per cent stake after 15 years, the central bank said, rather than to the current limit of 15 per cent within that timeframe. The new norms allow those who have already diluted stakes to hike their shareholding. Also read | Indian crypto investors may get exit time if govt bans trade: Report The Internal Working Group had made 33 recommendations, out of which the RBI has accepted 21. "The remaining recommendations are under examination," the RBI said. The central bank said payments banks must operate for at least five years before applying to become small finance banks (SFB), longer than the group's recommendation of three years of operations as sufficient to graduate into an SFB. According to the RBI, ''This stipulation (concerning the dilution of promoters' stakes) should be uniform for all types of promoters and would not mean that promoters, who have already diluted their holdings to below 26 per cent, will not be permitted to raise it to 26 per cent of the paid-up voting equity share capital of the bank.'' Also read | Fifteen more countries recognise India's COVID-19 vaccination certificate Non-promoter shareholdings will continue to be capped at 10 per cent for individuals and non-financial institutions but will be allowed up to 15 per cent of the equity share capital of a bank in the case of all categories of financial institutions, supranational institutions, public sector bodies or government, the RBI said. A year ago an RBI working group recommended that banking regulations be amended to allow large industrial groups to act as bank promoters and own big stakes in a lender. Such a move could transform the country's banking landscape but is something the central bank has strongly resisted in the past. (With inputs from agencies)

Reserve Bank of India rejects proposal on corporate ownership of banks

On November 26, 2008, India was rocked by a series of terrorist attacks when members of Lashkar-e-Taiba, a Pakistan-based terrorist organisation, carried out 12 coordinated shooting and bombing attacks in Mumbai.

On November 26, 2008, India was rocked by a series of terrorist attacks when members of Lashkar-e-Taiba, a Pakistan-based terrorist organisation, carried out 12 coordinated shooting and bombing attacks in Mumbai. A total of 175 people died, including nine attackers and more than 300 were wounded during the attacks that lasted for four days as it ended on November 29 when India's National Security Guards (NSG) conducted Operation Black Tornado to kill the remaining terrorists. ALSO READ | Pakistan petroleum dealers launch nationwide strike against lower profit margins Out of 10 attackers, nine were killed and Ajmal Kasab was the only attacker arrested alive by police. He was hanged in Pune's Yerwada jail in secret on November 21, 2012, after he had exhausted all legal remedies. The attacks drew global condemnation but many raised questions also over delayed response while tackling the deadly attacks. Even the High-Level Enquiry Committee (HLEC) on 26/11 pointed out lapses in the law enforcement agencies and suggested measures to prevent such events. But why was there a delay? Many would not know that a nine-member high-level team, required for taking key decisions during the attacks, was in Pakistan. The team comprised of officials from India's Home Ministry and other security agencies, led by no less than then Union Home Secretary Madhukar Gupta. RSN Singh, who is a former military intelligence officer and later served in the Research and Analysis Wing or R&AW, wrote in the Indian Defence Review that it was a "classic case of strategic deception by Pakistan". ALSO READ | Where Afghanistan's new Taliban leaders went to school The team had arrived in Islamabad on November 24, 2008 and was supposed to return two days later, i.e. November 26. However, the visit was extended by an extra day. The extra day was in Murree, which is a hill station, 60km northeast of Islamabad. Reports have even suggested that the team had no means of communication in that location. Key decision-makers, including the Union Home Secretary, the Joint Secretary, Internal Security, the Director, Internal Security, among others were said to be in Murree. Their designations and identities cannot be disclosed for reasons of security and secrecy. After media reports claimed Murree stay was a "party", former home secretary Madhukar Gupta, in 2016, rejected the charges of enjoying Pakistan's hospitality. In 2016, he had also said that they found the gesture of the Pakistan government odd, adding that their "duplicitous role was absolutely clear, it's not the first time". He had also told The Times of India that Pakistan had insisted they meet their Interior Minister and that's the reason for their extended stay. Duplicitous role of Pakistan is absolutely clear, its not the first time: Madhukar Gupta, former Home Secy pic.twitter.com/scJptM1JkM — ANI (@ANI) June 11, 2016 × Madhukar Gupta former Home Sec on Indian delegation extending stay in Pakistan 2008: We did find it odd about Murree pic.twitter.com/ta8RQEoTs8 — ANI (@ANI) June 11, 2016 × "Though we had been staying in Islamabad for two days, the host country made special plans to shift us to a nearby hill resort in Murree. In retrospect, it leads us to suspect if the real motive was to delay or weaken the response of Indian security brass to the 26/11 strikes," a former bureaucrat had told The Times of India in 2016. However, Madhukar Gupta had dismissed reports that there was no television signal in Murree as he said that he had received a call from India about the attacks and immediately switched on the TV. He informed that he had contacted the senior leadership in India also. So many questions have been raised; why the visit was extended? Why the team was shifted to a hill station? Did Pakistan government officials know about attacks? Coincidence or conspiracy?

Coincidence or conspiracy? Did Pakistan attempt to paralyse India's internal security during 26/11 attacks?

The world is witnessing a space race of sorts again with entry of private companies in the domain previously exclusive to government space agencies. Questions are often raised about whether we need to spend billions on space when we have pressing issues here on Earth. But it has been seen the technological and scientific frontiers heralded by space exploration has often led to advancement of science and tech on Earth.

"There’s great benefits here on earth as a result of space exploration activities and continued human presence in Low Earth Orbit," says Colonel Pam Melroy, a former NASA Astronaut who is currently NASA’s deputy administrator.&nbsp;

“Climate change is an existential crisis, the best place to monitor earth, is from space… There are a lot of problems to solve… We go to space to benefit life on Earth and those who spend their effort on it see a direct line of sight.”&nbsp;

The top American official was in discussion with heads of space agencies from the Quad countries (Japan, Australia, India, US), hosted as part of the Sydney Dialogue, by the Australian Strategic Policy Institute.&nbsp;

“Traditionally government agencies carried out space activities, but there has been increased activity in low earth orbit (LEO) in the last decade. In the midst of this, ordinary people and astronauts are going to space. Increasing access to space can create new services on Earth and improve life here,” agrees Dr Hiroshi Yamakawa, president, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency(JAXA).&nbsp;

On the need for greater collaboration between Quad countries, he added that the future lunar exploration has to be a joint effort, as there exists the possibility of having a manned space station in the vicinity of the Moon, which can enable sustained exploration in the region and also on the lunar surface. The Japanese space agency head emphasised the need for multi-national missions to Mars that would be led by Quad countries, owing to the high costs of manned missions.&nbsp;

Despite being a recent entrant, the Australian Space Agency hopes to build upon its long legacy of having performed and facilitated deep space communications, remote operations and space medicine, life sciences, to further its spacefaring ambitions.&nbsp;

It is noteworthy that, unlike the other Quad countries, Australia doesn’t yet have a standalone, independent space-faring programme and that they work with other agencies and countries to jointly perform missions. However, the Australian Space Agency wants to grow big and grow quick.&nbsp;

“We are looking to nurture and foster industry, by investing on R&amp;D, by offering grants, special programmes, working with other space agencies and instilling confidence about there being a market” says Enrico Palermo, Head, Australian Space Agency.&nbsp;

Asked about Australia having its own human spaceflight programme, Palermo expressed optimism and said that they would have a shot eventually, considering the increasing easy access to space and rapid miniaturization of technological, aerospace components. Elaborating on Australia’s geographic advantages, open ranges, experience in space medicine and life sciences, deep space communication networks, he said that Australia would end up in a position to have an astronaut programme. He also made a mention of Australia’s communication and tracking support being offered to India’s Gaganyaan human spaceflight programme and NASA’s Artemis, manned lunar exploration programme.&nbsp;

“NASA is an engine to drive commercial development and space exploration is the fuel for this engine… Pushing ourselves to do something super challenging is the fuel..” Says the former NASA Astronaut. According to her, NASA would be a facilitator that would provide funding, strike partnerships, open doors and nurture private players to go forward in the exploration of deep space.&nbsp;

“Sustained presence in low Earth orbit had helped us understand and develop more efficient combustion engines, key processes in the human body, insights for medicine development etc.” she said.

On NASA’s future plans, Melroy said that the agency intends to handoff LEO (500-200 km orbits) to commercial partners, so that it can put more investment into expanding out into the solar system.&nbsp;

“If we continue to do everything on our own, it would be very tough to find the resources for it” she said on the importance of having private companies undertaking important spacefaring and support missions.&nbsp;

It is significant to note that the Indian government had announced reforms in the country’s space sector, in 2020, to enable private players to perform end-to-end spacefaring activities including designing, owning, building rockets, satellites, launching rockets and spacecrafts, providing support and ground services etc. The Indian Space sector has been dominated by the state-run Indian Space Research Organisation, since the very inception of India’s space programme, while private companies were only vendors and suppliers of components and services. However, the latest reforms in India are aimed at opening up this lucrative industry, which is estimated to be worth $440 billion worldwide.&nbsp;

The world is witnessing a space race of sorts again with entry of private companies in the domain previously exclusive to government space agencies. Questions are often raised about whether we need to spend billions on space when we have pressing issues here on Earth.

The world is witnessing a space race of sorts again with entry of private companies in the domain previously exclusive to government space agencies. Questions are often raised about whether we need to spend billions on space when we have pressing issues here on Earth. But it has been seen the technological and scientific frontiers heralded by space exploration has often led to advancement of science and tech on Earth. "There’s great benefits here on earth as a result of space exploration activities and continued human presence in Low Earth Orbit," says Colonel Pam Melroy, a former NASA Astronaut who is currently NASA’s deputy administrator. “Climate change is an existential crisis, the best place to monitor earth, is from space… There are a lot of problems to solve… We go to space to benefit life on Earth and those who spend their effort on it see a direct line of sight.” The top American official was in discussion with heads of space agencies from the Quad countries (Japan, Australia, India, US), hosted as part of the Sydney Dialogue, by the Australian Strategic Policy Institute. “Traditionally government agencies carried out space activities, but there has been increased activity in low earth orbit (LEO) in the last decade. In the midst of this, ordinary people and astronauts are going to space. Increasing access to space can create new services on Earth and improve life here,” agrees Dr Hiroshi Yamakawa, president, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency(JAXA). On the need for greater collaboration between Quad countries, he added that the future lunar exploration has to be a joint effort, as there exists the possibility of having a manned space station in the vicinity of the Moon, which can enable sustained exploration in the region and also on the lunar surface. The Japanese space agency head emphasised the need for multi-national missions to Mars that would be led by Quad countries, owing to the high costs of manned missions. Despite being a recent entrant, the Australian Space Agency hopes to build upon its long legacy of having performed and facilitated deep space communications, remote operations and space medicine, life sciences, to further its spacefaring ambitions. It is noteworthy that, unlike the other Quad countries, Australia doesn’t yet have a standalone, independent space-faring programme and that they work with other agencies and countries to jointly perform missions. However, the Australian Space Agency wants to grow big and grow quick. “We are looking to nurture and foster industry, by investing on R&D, by offering grants, special programmes, working with other space agencies and instilling confidence about there being a market” says Enrico Palermo, Head, Australian Space Agency. Asked about Australia having its own human spaceflight programme, Palermo expressed optimism and said that they would have a shot eventually, considering the increasing easy access to space and rapid miniaturization of technological, aerospace components. Elaborating on Australia’s geographic advantages, open ranges, experience in space medicine and life sciences, deep space communication networks, he said that Australia would end up in a position to have an astronaut programme. He also made a mention of Australia’s communication and tracking support being offered to India’s Gaganyaan human spaceflight programme and NASA’s Artemis, manned lunar exploration programme. “NASA is an engine to drive commercial development and space exploration is the fuel for this engine… Pushing ourselves to do something super challenging is the fuel..” Says the former NASA Astronaut. According to her, NASA would be a facilitator that would provide funding, strike partnerships, open doors and nurture private players to go forward in the exploration of deep space. “Sustained presence in low Earth orbit had helped us understand and develop more efficient combustion engines, key processes in the human body, insights for medicine development etc.” she said. On NASA’s future plans, Melroy said that the agency intends to handoff LEO (500-200 km orbits) to commercial partners, so that it can put more investment into expanding out into the solar system. “If we continue to do everything on our own, it would be very tough to find the resources for it” she said on the importance of having private companies undertaking important spacefaring and support missions. It is significant to note that the Indian government had announced reforms in the country’s space sector, in 2020, to enable private players to perform end-to-end spacefaring activities including designing, owning, building rockets, satellites, launching rockets and spacecrafts, providing support and ground services etc. The Indian Space sector has been dominated by the state-run Indian Space Research Organisation, since the very inception of India’s space programme, while private companies were only vendors and suppliers of components and services. However, the latest reforms in India are aimed at opening up this lucrative industry, which is estimated to be worth $440 billion worldwide.

Being in space has given us better science and tech on Earth, say top officials of Quad space agencies

India's aviation ministry informed on Friday that scheduled international flight operations will resume from December 15 after it was suspended in March 2020 amid the coronavirus pandemic.

India has been operating special flights under the "air bubble" agreement with several countries.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/highly-mutated-new-covid-variant-uk-bans-6-african-nations-flights-who-calls-special-meeting-432019">Also Read:&nbsp;Highly mutated new Covid variant: UK bans 6 African nations' flights</a>

"The matter of resumption of scheduled commercial international passenger services to and from India has been examined in consultation with the ministry of home affairs, ministry of external affairs and the ministry of health and family welfare," the ministry said.

The aviation ministry had earlier extended the&nbsp;suspension of flights till November 30. However, international cargo operations were allowed to continue.

The ministry said based on countries that have been recognised as "at-risk" by the health ministry, countries have been categorised into three categories with separate capacity restrictions.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
India puts all travellers from Botswana, South Africa and Hong Kong in 'at risk' category, as emergence of a new <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Covid19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Covid19</a> variant—considered 'worse than delta'—becomes a source of concern around the world. <a href="https://twitter.com/KaldenOngmu?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KaldenOngmu</a> gets you this report from Johannesburg<a href="https://twitter.com/eriknjoka?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@eriknjoka</a> <a href="https://t.co/VLz0rtUd0G">pic.twitter.com/VLz0rtUd0G</a>
— WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1464208565149876231?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Reports said India has put travellers from Botswana, South Africa and Hong Kong in the "at-risk" category after the emergence of the new virus variant B.1.1.529 which led several countries to impose travel restrictions on Monday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-threat-heres-what-we-know-about-covid-b11529-or-nu-variant-likely-deadlier-than-delta-432075">Also Read:&nbsp;Here's what we know about Covid B.1.1.529 or Nu variant, likely deadlier than Delta</a>

The countries which have been identified as "not at-risk" planes will be allowed to take passengers at full capacity.

However, those countries which have been&nbsp;categorised as "at-risk" where the air bubble has been formalised, the government mandated 75 per cent capacity and with countries which have been identified as "at-risk" and where the air bubble agreement hasn't been formalised, it said it will allow,&nbsp;"50 per cent of pre-Covid operations of Indian or foreign carrier which whichever is higher will be allowed."

"Resumption of commercial international passenger services would imply reversion to bilaterally agreed capacity entitlement and termination of air bubble arrangements," it added.

(With inputs from Agencies)

India's aviation ministry informed on Friday that scheduled international flight operations will resume from December 15 after it was suspended in March 2020 amid the coronavirus pandemic.

India's aviation ministry informed on Friday that scheduled international flight operations will resume from December 15 after it was suspended in March 2020 amid the coronavirus pandemic. India has been operating special flights under the "air bubble" agreement with several countries. Also Read: Highly mutated new Covid variant: UK bans 6 African nations' flights "The matter of resumption of scheduled commercial international passenger services to and from India has been examined in consultation with the ministry of home affairs, ministry of external affairs and the ministry of health and family welfare," the ministry said. The aviation ministry had earlier extended the suspension of flights till November 30. However, international cargo operations were allowed to continue. The ministry said based on countries that have been recognised as "at-risk" by the health ministry, countries have been categorised into three categories with separate capacity restrictions. India puts all travellers from Botswana, South Africa and Hong Kong in 'at risk' category, as emergence of a new #Covid19 variant—considered 'worse than delta'—becomes a source of concern around the world. @KaldenOngmu gets you this report from Johannesburg@eriknjoka pic.twitter.com/VLz0rtUd0G — WION (@WIONews) November 26, 2021 × Reports said India has put travellers from Botswana, South Africa and Hong Kong in the "at-risk" category after the emergence of the new virus variant B.1.1.529 which led several countries to impose travel restrictions on Monday. Also Read: Here's what we know about Covid B.1.1.529 or Nu variant, likely deadlier than Delta The countries which have been identified as "not at-risk" planes will be allowed to take passengers at full capacity. However, those countries which have been categorised as "at-risk" where the air bubble has been formalised, the government mandated 75 per cent capacity and with countries which have been identified as "at-risk" and where the air bubble agreement hasn't been formalised, it said it will allow, "50 per cent of pre-Covid operations of Indian or foreign carrier which whichever is higher will be allowed." "Resumption of commercial international passenger services would imply reversion to bilaterally agreed capacity entitlement and termination of air bubble arrangements," it added. (With inputs from Agencies)

India allows international flight operations from December 15

According to 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;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-has-more-women-than-men-for-the-first-time-finds-government-survey-431969" hreflang="en">India has more women than men for the first time, finds government survey</a>

The PM 10 was recorded at 376 in the 'very poor' category while PM 2.5 was 224 in the 'very poor' category at 7:50 am in the morning. The AQI of 350 and 463 was recorded in Gurugram and Noida respectively in the "very poor" and "severe" categories. &nbsp;

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;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-to-reopen-schools-offices-on-nov-29-as-air-quality-improves-marginally-431699" hreflang="en">Delhi to reopen schools, offices on Nov 29 as air quality improves marginally</a>

On November 29, surface winds are likely to increase leading to improvement of air quality but still it may remain within the 'very poor' category, it said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

"Local emissions and weather (mixing layer height and wind speed) are likely to be the dominant factors controlling air quality. Effective fire count is 219 and its per cent share in Delhi's PM2.5 is 6 per cent," it added. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;

According to 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.

According to 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: India has more women than men for the first time, finds government survey The PM 10 was recorded at 376 in the 'very poor' category while PM 2.5 was 224 in the 'very poor' category at 7:50 am in the morning. The AQI of 350 and 463 was recorded in Gurugram and Noida respectively in the "very poor" and "severe" categories. 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." Also Read: Delhi to reopen schools, offices on Nov 29 as air quality improves marginally On November 29, surface winds are likely to increase leading to improvement of air quality but still it may remain within the 'very poor' category, it said. "Local emissions and weather (mixing layer height and wind speed) are likely to be the dominant factors controlling air quality. Effective fire count is 219 and its per cent share in Delhi's PM2.5 is 6 per cent," it added. (With inputs from agencies)

Pollution: Indian capital’s overall air quality slips to 'very poor' category

It has been thirteen years since the 26/11 terrorist attacks took place in Mumbai, the financial capital of India. The attacks lasted four days killing 166 people and injuring over 300.

Mumbai terror attack: what really happened on those fateful days of terror?

With the emergence of new coronavirus variant on mind, Indian government has issued an advisory to all states to rigorously test and screen international travellers from South Africa and other "at risk" countries. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The travel restrictions were eased earlier this month. According to the WHO, the variant, which is called B.1.1.529, has been detected in South Africa in small numbers. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-coronavirus-variant-having-large-number-of-mutations-detected-in-south-africa-431892" hreflang="en">New coronavirus variant, having large number of mutations, detected in South Africa</a>

The reports of mutations in the new variant, which has been identified as B.1.1.529 had "serious public health implications", said the federal health ministry. &nbsp;

In a letter to states on Thursday, health secretary Rajesh Bhushan said, "This variant is reported to have a significantly high number of mutations, and thus, has serious public health implications for the country in view of recently relaxed visa restrictions and opening up of international travel." &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-medical-agency-gives-go-ahead-to-biontech-pfizer-vaccine-for-5-11-age-group-431940" hreflang="en">EU medical agency gives go ahead to BioNTech-Pfizer vaccine for 5-11 age group</a>

According to the Union Health Ministry data on Friday,&nbsp;India has registered 10,549 new coronavirus infections. It has&nbsp;taken the country's total tally of Covid cases to 3,45,55,431. The active cases in the country rose to 1,10,133.&nbsp;

"In view of the threat from new COVID-19 variant from African countries, we have requested experts to make a presentation to DDMA on Monday and suggest what steps we should take. We will take all steps necessary to protect you and your family," Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
In view of the threat from new COVID variant from African countries, we have requested experts to make a presentation to DDMA on Mon and suggest what steps we shud take. We will take all steps necessary to protect u and ur family
— Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) <a href="https://twitter.com/ArvindKejriwal/status/1464114908627275777?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The death toll has also climbed to 4,67,468 with 488 fresh fatalities, including 384 in Kerala.&nbsp;&nbsp;

For 49 straight days,&nbsp;the daily rise in new coronavirus infections has been below 20,000.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

With the emergence of new coronavirus variant on mind, Indian government has issued an advisory to all states to rigorously test and screen international travellers from South Africa and other "at risk" countries.

With the emergence of new coronavirus variant on mind, Indian government has issued an advisory to all states to rigorously test and screen international travellers from South Africa and other "at risk" countries. The travel restrictions were eased earlier this month. According to the WHO, the variant, which is called B.1.1.529, has been detected in South Africa in small numbers. Also Read: New coronavirus variant, having large number of mutations, detected in South Africa The reports of mutations in the new variant, which has been identified as B.1.1.529 had "serious public health implications", said the federal health ministry. In a letter to states on Thursday, health secretary Rajesh Bhushan said, "This variant is reported to have a significantly high number of mutations, and thus, has serious public health implications for the country in view of recently relaxed visa restrictions and opening up of international travel." Also Read: EU medical agency gives go ahead to BioNTech-Pfizer vaccine for 5-11 age group According to the Union Health Ministry data on Friday, India has registered 10,549 new coronavirus infections. It has taken the country's total tally of Covid cases to 3,45,55,431. The active cases in the country rose to 1,10,133. "In view of the threat from new COVID-19 variant from African countries, we have requested experts to make a presentation to DDMA on Monday and suggest what steps we should take. We will take all steps necessary to protect you and your family," Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said. In view of the threat from new COVID variant from African countries, we have requested experts to make a presentation to DDMA on Mon and suggest what steps we shud take. We will take all steps necessary to protect u and ur family — Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) November 26, 2021 × The death toll has also climbed to 4,67,468 with 488 fresh fatalities, including 384 in Kerala. For 49 straight days, the daily rise in new coronavirus infections has been below 20,000. (With inputs from agencies)

As new variant emerges, India to tighten Covid testing for international tourists   

On India's Constitution Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke on dynastic politics and&nbsp;said that parties being ruled by single family for generations were&nbsp;not good for healthy democracy.

"Party for the family, by the family...do I need to say more? If a party is run by one family for many generations, then, it isn`t good for a healthy democracy," said PM Modi at an event on Constitution Day in the Central Hall of the Parliament.&nbsp;

"The spirit of the Constitution has also been hurt, every section of the Constitution has also been hurt, when political parties lose their democratic character in themselves. How can the parties which have lost their democratic character protect democracy?" said the Prime Minister.&nbsp;

He further slammed the dynastic politics prevalent in the country.&nbsp;

"On the basis of merit, more than one person can go in politics from one family and this will not make the party family-oriented. But one family is in politics generation after generation," the Prime Minister added.&nbsp;

PM Modi said that India was moving towards a crisis due to family run parties

He paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi and all those who fought during India`s independence struggle.

"Constitution Day is the day to salute this House, where many of India`s leaders brainstormed to give us the Constitution of India. We also pay tribute to Mahatma Gandhi and all those who fought during India`s independence struggle," he said.

In India, Constitution Day is celebrated on November 26 each year. The day marks adoption of the Indian Constitution by the Constituent Assembly on November 26, 1949.

The Constitution Day was first celebrated in 2015 as a mark of tribute to India`s first Law Minister Bhim Rao Ambedkar, who played a pivotal role in the drafting of the document.The Constitution of India, one of the longest written Constitutions of the world, constitutes of a Preamble, 22 parts with 395 articles and eight schedules.

(With inputs from agencies)

On India's Constitution Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke on dynastic politics and said that parties being ruled by single family for generations were not good for healthy democracy.

On India's Constitution Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke on dynastic politics and said that parties being ruled by single family for generations were not good for healthy democracy. "Party for the family, by the family...do I need to say more? If a party is run by one family for many generations, then, it isn`t good for a healthy democracy," said PM Modi at an event on Constitution Day in the Central Hall of the Parliament. "The spirit of the Constitution has also been hurt, every section of the Constitution has also been hurt, when political parties lose their democratic character in themselves. How can the parties which have lost their democratic character protect democracy?" said the Prime Minister. He further slammed the dynastic politics prevalent in the country. "On the basis of merit, more than one person can go in politics from one family and this will not make the party family-oriented. But one family is in politics generation after generation," the Prime Minister added. PM Modi said that India was moving towards a crisis due to family run parties He paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi and all those who fought during India`s independence struggle. "Constitution Day is the day to salute this House, where many of India`s leaders brainstormed to give us the Constitution of India. We also pay tribute to Mahatma Gandhi and all those who fought during India`s independence struggle," he said. In India, Constitution Day is celebrated on November 26 each year. The day marks adoption of the Indian Constitution by the Constituent Assembly on November 26, 1949. The Constitution Day was first celebrated in 2015 as a mark of tribute to India`s first Law Minister Bhim Rao Ambedkar, who played a pivotal role in the drafting of the document.The Constitution of India, one of the longest written Constitutions of the world, constitutes of a Preamble, 22 parts with 395 articles and eight schedules. (With inputs from agencies)

On India's Constitution Day, PM Modi slams dynastic politics

As per the National Family and Health Survey-5, India now has more females than males for the first time on record. The survey's data has been drawn from around 600,000 households across the country.

As per the National Family and Health Survey-5, India now has more females than males for the first time on record. The survey's data has been drawn from around 600,000 households across the country. Showing a positive demographic shift, the survey released by the Indian health ministry on Wednesday (November 24), recorded 1,020 women per 1,000 men after two years of research. The National Family Health Survey 2019-21 (NFHS-5), the fifth in the NFHS series, provides information on population, health, and nutrition for India and each state and union territory — clubbed under Phase-II. The states and union territories that were surveyed in Phase-II are Arunachal Pradesh, Chandigarh, Chhattisgarh, Haryana, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, NCT of Delhi, Odisha, Puducherry, Punjab, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand. ALSO READ | Indian crypto investors may get exit time if govt bans trade, but with a rider: Report It is also important to note that the findings of NFHS-5 in respect of 22 states and union territories covered in Phase-I were released in December 2020. The NFHS-5 survey focused on some new topics, such as preschool education, disability, access to a toilet facility, death registration, bathing practices during menstruation and methods and reasons for abortion. Apart from the improved sex ratio in favour of women, other key findings in the survey are: -Full immunization drive among children aged 12-23 months has recorded a substantial improvement from 62 per cent to 76 per cent. -Nearly four-fifth (78 per cent) of mothers received postnatal care from health personnel within two days of delivery in the country, a significant rise from 62.4 per cent in NFHS-4. -The survey findings stated total fertility rate (children per woman) in the country has reached the replacement level of fertility, a significant demographic milestone. The average number of children per woman has further declined from 2.2 to 2.0 at the national level. ALSO READ | Indian high court's judgement lowering sentence of man accused in child abuse causes outrage Women are continuously getting stronger and more empowered, through PM @NarendraModi ji's women-centric development goals. 78.6% of women had bank accounts and 77.3% of them had access to hygienic protection during menstruation in 2019-20. pic.twitter.com/nzFLFSZ1vW — Dr Mansukh Mandaviya (@mansukhmandviya) November 25, 2021 × -Overall Contraceptive Prevalence Rate (CPR) has increased substantially from 54 per cent to 67 per cent at the all-India level. -Full immunization drive among children aged 12-23 months has recorded improvement from 62 per cent to 76 per cent. -Exclusive breastfeeding to children under age 6 months has shown an improvement in the all-India level from 55 per cent in 2015-16 to 64 per cent in 2019-21. Strong Women = Healthy Nation With a special emphasis on women, India's health indicators are rising under PM @NarendraModi ji. 88.6% of women have given birth in institutions and 78% of mothers have received post-natal care in 2019-20. pic.twitter.com/ic73nwpq48 — Dr Mansukh Mandaviya (@mansukhmandviya) November 25, 2021 × -Significant progress has been recorded in regard to women operating bank accounts from 53 per cent in NFHS-4 to 79 per cent NFHS-5. The union health secretary noted that data of NFHS-5 does not fully capture the transformative interventions of government schemes like Ayushman Bharat, Pradhan Mantri Jan Aarogya Yojana and Pradhan Mantri-Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan because they were being rolled out while the survey was being conducted. Modi’s Mission, Healthy Nation! Women’s health has been a priority under PM @NarendraModi ji’s governance model. WIth rising positive indicators, 89.4% of all births were attended by professionals in 2019-20. pic.twitter.com/C8UTSEHGJg — Dr Mansukh Mandaviya (@mansukhmandviya) November 25, 2021 ×

India has more women than men for the first time, finds government survey

Noida International Airport: Indian PM Narendra Modi lays foundation stone of 'largest airport in Asia'

India is working with more than six countries to achieve the Gaganyaan Human Spaceflight mission, which is a symbol of International Cooperation, said Dr. K. Sivan, Chairman, Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO).

“Indian astronauts have completed their training at the Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Center in Russia, we are working with French space agency CNES in the field of Space medicine, with Canada and Romania for wind-tunnel testing, Australia (ASA) and European Space Agency for ground station support.&nbsp;

Speaking at the Sydney Dialogue, an Initiative by the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, he added that the Gaganyaan project was a stepping stone for sustained Indian presence in outer space and that the ongoing cooperation would continue and would grow into increased engagement with international partners, in the years to come.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/explained-how-indias-lunar-orbiter-chandrayaan-2-avoided-collision-with-nasas-lro-429955" hreflang="en">Explained: How India’s Lunar Orbiter Chandrayaan-2 avoided Collision with NASA’s LRO</a>

On the potential and scientific possibilities of future exploration missions to Moon, he said, radio astronomy receivers could be deployed and operated in the RadioFrequency-free (RF-free) far side of the moon, besides the Moon serving as a potential observatory, as there is practically no atmosphere that would affect the signals coming in from space.

Such observatories could be used to study the Infrared signatures to better understand global warming.&nbsp;

Pertaining to Mars exploration, which is the much-talked-about science, he spoke about the hypothetical process of terraforming (modifying the temperature, atmosphere, topography, and ecology) the Red Planet, in order to make it habitable like earth.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-lunar-lander-japanese-rover-to-explore-moon-in-lupex-mission-says-jaxa-official-431774" hreflang="en">Indian lunar lander, Japanese rover to explore Moon in LUPEX mission, says JAXA Official</a>

“A capsule can be sent, aided by human astronauts and can be kept isolated from Martian environment. This can be taken up as a model and scaled up. With human presence, it will be possible to search for biosignatures on Mars” he elaborated on scientific exploration possibilities.&nbsp;

Most importantly, he touched upon the need to explore ways and means for in-situ resource utiliSation on Moon and Mars, which can sustain human presence.

“To generate propulsion(fuel) using local resources, astronauts may demonstrate Vacuum pyrolysis on the Moon and Sabatier reaction on Mars. The dexterity of astronauts will help in performing experiments on a smaller scale and then scaling it up with suitable mechanisms and automation” Dr. Sivan added.&nbsp;

Vacuum pyrolysis on the Moon refers to the process of extracting oxygen and other valuable gases, hydrocarbons from the Lunar surface, by using very high temperatures (more than 1400deg C). Whereas, the Sabatier process/reaction is about utilizing reactions between Martian carbon dioxide and imported hydrogen to produce methane, water, and oxygen.&nbsp;

India is working with more than six countries to achieve the Gaganyaan Human Spaceflight mission, which is a symbol of International Cooperation, said Dr. K. Sivan, Chairman, Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO).

India is working with more than six countries to achieve the Gaganyaan Human Spaceflight mission, which is a symbol of International Cooperation, said Dr. K. Sivan, Chairman, Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO). “Indian astronauts have completed their training at the Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Center in Russia, we are working with French space agency CNES in the field of Space medicine, with Canada and Romania for wind-tunnel testing, Australia (ASA) and European Space Agency for ground station support. Speaking at the Sydney Dialogue, an Initiative by the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, he added that the Gaganyaan project was a stepping stone for sustained Indian presence in outer space and that the ongoing cooperation would continue and would grow into increased engagement with international partners, in the years to come. Also read | Explained: How India’s Lunar Orbiter Chandrayaan-2 avoided Collision with NASA’s LRO On the potential and scientific possibilities of future exploration missions to Moon, he said, radio astronomy receivers could be deployed and operated in the RadioFrequency-free (RF-free) far side of the moon, besides the Moon serving as a potential observatory, as there is practically no atmosphere that would affect the signals coming in from space. Such observatories could be used to study the Infrared signatures to better understand global warming. Pertaining to Mars exploration, which is the much-talked-about science, he spoke about the hypothetical process of terraforming (modifying the temperature, atmosphere, topography, and ecology) the Red Planet, in order to make it habitable like earth. Also read | Indian lunar lander, Japanese rover to explore Moon in LUPEX mission, says JAXA Official “A capsule can be sent, aided by human astronauts and can be kept isolated from Martian environment. This can be taken up as a model and scaled up. With human presence, it will be possible to search for biosignatures on Mars” he elaborated on scientific exploration possibilities. Most importantly, he touched upon the need to explore ways and means for in-situ resource utiliSation on Moon and Mars, which can sustain human presence. “To generate propulsion(fuel) using local resources, astronauts may demonstrate Vacuum pyrolysis on the Moon and Sabatier reaction on Mars. The dexterity of astronauts will help in performing experiments on a smaller scale and then scaling it up with suitable mechanisms and automation” Dr. Sivan added. Vacuum pyrolysis on the Moon refers to the process of extracting oxygen and other valuable gases, hydrocarbons from the Lunar surface, by using very high temperatures (more than 1400deg C). Whereas, the Sabatier process/reaction is about utilizing reactions between Martian carbon dioxide and imported hydrogen to produce methane, water, and oxygen.

India working with over 6 countries for human spaceflight Gaganyaan, says Dr.K Sivan

The Indian government will give time to the investors to exit from the unregulated cryptocurrency market if the law banning their trade is enacted, according to a newspaper report&nbsp;citing officials familiar with the development.

The Narendra Modi-led government has tabled the “Cryptocurrency and Regulation of Official Digital Currency Bill, 2021” for the upcoming winter session of Parliament.

The bill, once passed in the parliament, will “prohibit all private cryptocurrencies in India,” with “certain exceptions to promote the underlying technology of cryptocurrency and its uses”. The session is scheduled to start on November 29.

According to the Hindustan Times (HT), which cited two officials close to the development, the investors would be given a buffer time to liquidate their investments, but a tax would be levied on the disinvestment under the capital gains tax rule.

The capital gains tax is imposed on the profit from an investment when a sale of the capital asset takes place. In India, gain or profit from selling the investment is treated as an income, and hence a tax is levied.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-to-ban-private-cryptocurrencies-bill-to-be-tabled-in-parliament-431454">India to ban private cryptocurrencies, bill to be tabled in parliament</a>

The official, who did not wish to be named, told HT that investors will have ample time to exit if they wish from the time the bill is introduced in the Parliament and then passed by the two houses. Additionally, a three-month buffer is likely to be allowed, beginning from the date a potential ban is enacted.

Meanwhile, ever since it was announced that the government would be banning all private cryptocurrencies, panic selling has erupted in the Indian exchanges.

All major cryptocurrencies saw a fall of around 15 per cent or more, with Bitcoin down over 17 per cent, Ethereum falling by close to 15 per cent, and Tether down by almost 18 per cent till Wednesday.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The Indian government will give time to the investors to exit from the unregulated cryptocurrency market if the law banning their trade is enacted, according to a newspaper report citing officials familiar with the development.

The Indian government will give time to the investors to exit from the unregulated cryptocurrency market if the law banning their trade is enacted, according to a newspaper report citing officials familiar with the development. The Narendra Modi-led government has tabled the “Cryptocurrency and Regulation of Official Digital Currency Bill, 2021” for the upcoming winter session of Parliament. The bill, once passed in the parliament, will “prohibit all private cryptocurrencies in India,” with “certain exceptions to promote the underlying technology of cryptocurrency and its uses”. The session is scheduled to start on November 29. According to the Hindustan Times (HT), which cited two officials close to the development, the investors would be given a buffer time to liquidate their investments, but a tax would be levied on the disinvestment under the capital gains tax rule. The capital gains tax is imposed on the profit from an investment when a sale of the capital asset takes place. In India, gain or profit from selling the investment is treated as an income, and hence a tax is levied. Also read | India to ban private cryptocurrencies, bill to be tabled in parliament The official, who did not wish to be named, told HT that investors will have ample time to exit if they wish from the time the bill is introduced in the Parliament and then passed by the two houses. Additionally, a three-month buffer is likely to be allowed, beginning from the date a potential ban is enacted. Meanwhile, ever since it was announced that the government would be banning all private cryptocurrencies, panic selling has erupted in the Indian exchanges. All major cryptocurrencies saw a fall of around 15 per cent or more, with Bitcoin down over 17 per cent, Ethereum falling by close to 15 per cent, and Tether down by almost 18 per cent till Wednesday. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian crypto investors may get exit time if govt bans trade, but with a rider: Report

Pablo Tettamanti, deputy foreign minister, Argentina has called for a "better UN" and other multilateral organisations like WTO amid challenges like Covid crisis. The minister is in India for the sixth round of Foreign Office Consultations. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Speaking to WION Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Tettamanti said, "We think whole machinery has to be revamped. We have to discuss this as there are different views and details have to be put somehow." &nbsp;

Foreign office consultations took place between Riva Ganguly Das, Secretary (East), India and Argentine deputy foreign minister on Wednesday. &nbsp;&nbsp;

According to MEA, "Both countries recalled their mutual assistance during Covid and reiterated their joint resolve to continue mutual cooperation in their fight against the pandemic and post-pandemic recovery." &nbsp;

WION: What is the key focus of your Delhi visit? &nbsp;

Pablo Tettamanti: I came for our bilateral regular meetings with the foreign affairs ministry of India. We have a strategic association and created a mechanism by which ministry of foreign affairs meet regularly. Covid had made it very difficult. We had a meeting last year, which was virtual and I took advantage of the opening up to come to India to meet my counterpart Ambassador Riva Ganguly Das and was honoured to meet EAM Jaishankar and discuss our bilateral relationship. &nbsp;

&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-lunar-lander-japanese-rover-to-explore-moon-in-lupex-mission-says-jaxa-official-431774" hreflang="en">Indian lunar lander, Japanese rover to explore Moon in LUPEX mission, says JAXA Official</a>

&nbsp;

WION: How will you characterise the relationship between the two countries? &nbsp;

Pablo Tettamanti: Officially, we have a strategic association but it goes beyond that. There is a common view of many of the global issues and agenda, and we have same kind of approach too. It has been true in different periods of history, Argentina and India have always had a common vision as to how we believe things have to be solved. There are issues in which we have to find common ground but in general, we have an approach, which is very similar and I think that is the basis. We could see that in discussions. &nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;

WION: What is the key outcome of dialogue in Delhi? &nbsp;

Pablo Tettamanti: We have a series of mechanism that we have to put again, moving on. We will have meetings to discuss this issue but to be more specific, we have already been able to discuss MoUs on mining, which should show results in investments to the benefits of the two sides. We have been discussing how we can improve trade, possibility of cooperation in scientific and technological field, how to respond to Covid, having exchanges, etc. &nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;

WION: How has been the cooperation to deal with Covid and people-to-people movement? &nbsp;

Pablo Tettamanti: We are accepting international travellers who are fully vaccinated. We have been working on similar vaccines, both in India and Argentina. Many people, including myself have received Covishield vaccine so this is something that is naturally recognised. There is paper work, which is normal things, PCR test, etc. But all in all, we are going back to normalisation. In both countries, tourism was hit hard by Covid. But it is also something both countries plan to increase, as it crucial to recovery on economic side. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-foreign-secretary-harsh-shringla-says-carefully-assessing-trade-ties-with-china-431720" hreflang="en">India's foreign secretary Harsh Shringla says 'carefully' assessing trade ties with China</a>

&nbsp;

WION: Engagement at multilateral organisations like UN? &nbsp;

Pablo Tettamanti: Before Covid and afterwards, we have been talking about multilateralism. We think whole machinery is to be revamped. We have to discuss this. Though there are different views and details have to be somehow put in proportion and see how it works out. We have to work for better United Nations, WTO, etc. We both are members of the G20 and have voiced the concern of the emerging economies. We believe there is a possibility of our points of views being discussed and heard. With India, we have a common approach. &nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;

WION: Your views on the Indo-Pacific vision? Was there any conversation in Delhi? &nbsp;

Pablo Tettamanti: We have been exchanging views on how we can respond to challenges we face. We have seen the common ground, we believe in dialogue, human rights, negations and we need to put terrorism behind us. Realities are different in one region and another. Latin America faces more Pacific situation but approach is the same and we have exchanged views. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Pablo Tettamanti, deputy foreign minister, Argentina has called for a "better UN" and other multilateral organisations like WTO amid challenges like Covid crisis.

Pablo Tettamanti, deputy foreign minister, Argentina has called for a "better UN" and other multilateral organisations like WTO amid challenges like Covid crisis. The minister is in India for the sixth round of Foreign Office Consultations. Speaking to WION Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Tettamanti said, "We think whole machinery has to be revamped. We have to discuss this as there are different views and details have to be put somehow." Foreign office consultations took place between Riva Ganguly Das, Secretary (East), India and Argentine deputy foreign minister on Wednesday. According to MEA, "Both countries recalled their mutual assistance during Covid and reiterated their joint resolve to continue mutual cooperation in their fight against the pandemic and post-pandemic recovery." WION: What is the key focus of your Delhi visit? Pablo Tettamanti: I came for our bilateral regular meetings with the foreign affairs ministry of India. We have a strategic association and created a mechanism by which ministry of foreign affairs meet regularly. Covid had made it very difficult. We had a meeting last year, which was virtual and I took advantage of the opening up to come to India to meet my counterpart Ambassador Riva Ganguly Das and was honoured to meet EAM Jaishankar and discuss our bilateral relationship. Also Read: Indian lunar lander, Japanese rover to explore Moon in LUPEX mission, says JAXA Official WION: How will you characterise the relationship between the two countries? Pablo Tettamanti: Officially, we have a strategic association but it goes beyond that. There is a common view of many of the global issues and agenda, and we have same kind of approach too. It has been true in different periods of history, Argentina and India have always had a common vision as to how we believe things have to be solved. There are issues in which we have to find common ground but in general, we have an approach, which is very similar and I think that is the basis. We could see that in discussions. WION: What is the key outcome of dialogue in Delhi? Pablo Tettamanti: We have a series of mechanism that we have to put again, moving on. We will have meetings to discuss this issue but to be more specific, we have already been able to discuss MoUs on mining, which should show results in investments to the benefits of the two sides. We have been discussing how we can improve trade, possibility of cooperation in scientific and technological field, how to respond to Covid, having exchanges, etc. WION: How has been the cooperation to deal with Covid and people-to-people movement? Pablo Tettamanti: We are accepting international travellers who are fully vaccinated. We have been working on similar vaccines, both in India and Argentina. Many people, including myself have received Covishield vaccine so this is something that is naturally recognised. There is paper work, which is normal things, PCR test, etc. But all in all, we are going back to normalisation. In both countries, tourism was hit hard by Covid. But it is also something both countries plan to increase, as it crucial to recovery on economic side. Also Read: India's foreign secretary Harsh Shringla says 'carefully' assessing trade ties with China WION: Engagement at multilateral organisations like UN? Pablo Tettamanti: Before Covid and afterwards, we have been talking about multilateralism. We think whole machinery is to be revamped. We have to discuss this. Though there are different views and details have to be somehow put in proportion and see how it works out. We have to work for better United Nations, WTO, etc. We both are members of the G20 and have voiced the concern of the emerging economies. We believe there is a possibility of our points of views being discussed and heard. With India, we have a common approach. WION: Your views on the Indo-Pacific vision? Was there any conversation in Delhi? Pablo Tettamanti: We have been exchanging views on how we can respond to challenges we face. We have seen the common ground, we believe in dialogue, human rights, negations and we need to put terrorism behind us. Realities are different in one region and another. Latin America faces more Pacific situation but approach is the same and we have exchanged views.

Have to work for a better UN, says Argentina's deputy foreign minister during India visit

Germany's envoy to India Walter Lindner has called dealing with Taliban as "realpolitik" so that humanitarian support and other issues can be dealt with. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Speaking to WION's&nbsp;Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, he said, "We don't like this government, and they have given some assurances...You have to talk, which is not an acknowledgement of recognition of the government". &nbsp;

The envoy also spoke on many issues, including responding to a query regarding PM Modi's visit to Germany as part of biennial mechanism.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/have-to-work-for-a-better-un-says-argentinas-deputy-fm-during-india-visit-431794" hreflang="en">Have to work for a better UN, says Argentina's Deputy FM during India visit</a>

He said, "We hope it (PM's visit) happens within next six months, this will be the first official meeting of the two heads of government." Germany just had a new government formation after over 15 years rule by Angela Merkel. &nbsp;

&nbsp;

WION: What details can you give us on the government formation in Germany and ties with India? &nbsp;

Walter Lindner: As we speak, government formation is about to finish. The new coalition have a treaty that took seven weeks to negotiate and normally you have leaks and people are speculating. I haven't seen the list and we will know, who will take the ministry. For India not much change, yes madame Merkel will not there, we all will miss her. She will be missed worldwide. In a democracy, after 15 years, if she says I'm not running anymore, she has a successor. Her successor comes from a different party but you will see the style of the successor is very similar. He is from Hamburg and have lot of experience of a party and of a major city and will very soon show he is the right person to lead the country. &nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;

WION: What is the Germany's role in development partnership when it comes to India? Tell us about any conversations that happened in Delhi? &nbsp;

Walter Lindner: These conversations happen every year. The cooperation, dialogue keeps going on. We discuss what money do you need, what projects can we support and do we have the money to support them. We have been successful again. We have pledged more than 1.2 billion euros for the next year which will be like the same amount like last year. It amounts to more than 20 billion euro, which Germany has given in development assistance to India in last some decades. It will be for one year and cover lots of projects like climate change projects, poverty reduction and development goals. &nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;

WION: Several development projects are focused on climate issues. How are both countries tackling climate issues? &nbsp;

Walter Lindner: Every fifth person is an Indian. So, without India you can't solve many world problems. One of the biggest world problems is climate change. Along with it, renewable energy is also important and we can do this together with India. &nbsp;We try to help India and fulfil our own goals which we promised at COP26. We have to work together and many of these projects are in this context. So, we can do a lot technology wise. We can also exchange experiences and work on a number of projects in this country. I travel a lot in India, and wherever I go I find projects which we can support in different regions of the country in a huge dimension. &nbsp;

&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-lunar-lander-japanese-rover-to-explore-moon-in-lupex-mission-says-jaxa-official-431774" hreflang="en">Indian lunar lander, Japanese rover to explore Moon in LUPEX mission, says JAXA Official</a>

&nbsp;

WION: How do you see the camaraderie between PM Narendra Modi and German chancellor Angela Merkel? You have been a part of various meetings. &nbsp;

Walter Lindner: Yes, I have been a part of various functions, lunches, dinners and wherever they have met. It has always been a special atmosphere, characterised by mutual respect. Merkel always had a lot of respect for PM Modi as he has been ruling such a huge country with over a billion people and many challenges. It is really a task. They had a philosophical talk, like what is the future of work, what do we do when robots replace workers, we have artificial intelligence, so philosophical discussions, deep running discussions which, you don't have as a leader of the country with every other counterpart leader. It was the ninth time, they met bilaterally (in Rome), maybe they will meet in future. &nbsp;

&nbsp;WION: Will PM Modi visit Germany as part of biennial mechanism? &nbsp;

Walter Lindner: You have to ask your prime minister because this is the standard because every two years either we come, or PM comes to Germany. Merkel was here two years ago, so next year, if covid allows your PM, he may visit Germany. So, we hope it happens within next six months, this will be the first official meeting of the two heads of government. &nbsp;

WION: How does Germany sees the situation in Afghanistan and what kind of contact do you have with India on this?&nbsp;&nbsp;

Walter Lindner: I think we see it very similar to India. Realpolitik, we don't like this government. They have given some assurances that they will allow girls to go to school and women will be present in the government, which is not happening. Still, you have to talk to them, because you need to get people, who were co-workers with our army, out of the war-torn country. You need to get humanitarian assistance because winter is coming, and you need to have some influence as to what is the future course of the country. You have to talk, which is not an acknowledgement of recognition of the government, but quite difficult as we are forced to talk to people, who have just the opposite values. This is realpolitik and I think Indians have the same dilemma but out of necessity we have to talk.&nbsp;

Germany's envoy to India Walter Lindner has called dealing with Taliban as "realpolitik" so that humanitarian support and other issues can be dealt with. Speaking to WION's Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, he said, "We don't like this government, and they have given some assurances.

Germany's envoy to India Walter Lindner has called dealing with Taliban as "realpolitik" so that humanitarian support and other issues can be dealt with. Speaking to WION's Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, he said, "We don't like this government, and they have given some assurances...You have to talk, which is not an acknowledgement of recognition of the government". The envoy also spoke on many issues, including responding to a query regarding PM Modi's visit to Germany as part of biennial mechanism. Also Read: Have to work for a better UN, says Argentina's Deputy FM during India visit He said, "We hope it (PM's visit) happens within next six months, this will be the first official meeting of the two heads of government." Germany just had a new government formation after over 15 years rule by Angela Merkel. WION: What details can you give us on the government formation in Germany and ties with India? Walter Lindner: As we speak, government formation is about to finish. The new coalition have a treaty that took seven weeks to negotiate and normally you have leaks and people are speculating. I haven't seen the list and we will know, who will take the ministry. For India not much change, yes madame Merkel will not there, we all will miss her. She will be missed worldwide. In a democracy, after 15 years, if she says I'm not running anymore, she has a successor. Her successor comes from a different party but you will see the style of the successor is very similar. He is from Hamburg and have lot of experience of a party and of a major city and will very soon show he is the right person to lead the country. WION: What is the Germany's role in development partnership when it comes to India? Tell us about any conversations that happened in Delhi? Walter Lindner: These conversations happen every year. The cooperation, dialogue keeps going on. We discuss what money do you need, what projects can we support and do we have the money to support them. We have been successful again. We have pledged more than 1.2 billion euros for the next year which will be like the same amount like last year. It amounts to more than 20 billion euro, which Germany has given in development assistance to India in last some decades. It will be for one year and cover lots of projects like climate change projects, poverty reduction and development goals. WION: Several development projects are focused on climate issues. How are both countries tackling climate issues? Walter Lindner: Every fifth person is an Indian. So, without India you can't solve many world problems. One of the biggest world problems is climate change. Along with it, renewable energy is also important and we can do this together with India. We try to help India and fulfil our own goals which we promised at COP26. We have to work together and many of these projects are in this context. So, we can do a lot technology wise. We can also exchange experiences and work on a number of projects in this country. I travel a lot in India, and wherever I go I find projects which we can support in different regions of the country in a huge dimension. Also Read: Indian lunar lander, Japanese rover to explore Moon in LUPEX mission, says JAXA Official WION: How do you see the camaraderie between PM Narendra Modi and German chancellor Angela Merkel? You have been a part of various meetings. Walter Lindner: Yes, I have been a part of various functions, lunches, dinners and wherever they have met. It has always been a special atmosphere, characterised by mutual respect. Merkel always had a lot of respect for PM Modi as he has been ruling such a huge country with over a billion people and many challenges. It is really a task. They had a philosophical talk, like what is the future of work, what do we do when robots replace workers, we have artificial intelligence, so philosophical discussions, deep running discussions which, you don't have as a leader of the country with every other counterpart leader. It was the ninth time, they met bilaterally (in Rome), maybe they will meet in future. WION: Will PM Modi visit Germany as part of biennial mechanism? Walter Lindner: You have to ask your prime minister because this is the standard because every two years either we come, or PM comes to Germany. Merkel was here two years ago, so next year, if covid allows your PM, he may visit Germany. So, we hope it happens within next six months, this will be the first official meeting of the two heads of government. WION: How does Germany sees the situation in Afghanistan and what kind of contact do you have with India on this? Walter Lindner: I think we see it very similar to India. Realpolitik, we don't like this government. They have given some assurances that they will allow girls to go to school and women will be present in the government, which is not happening. Still, you have to talk to them, because you need to get people, who were co-workers with our army, out of the war-torn country. You need to get humanitarian assistance because winter is coming, and you need to have some influence as to what is the future course of the country. You have to talk, which is not an acknowledgement of recognition of the government, but quite difficult as we are forced to talk to people, who have just the opposite values. This is realpolitik and I think Indians have the same dilemma but out of necessity we have to talk.

Dealings with Taliban "realpolitik", says German envoy Walter Lindner

A judgement by an Indian high court lowering the sentence of a man who is convicted of forcing a 10-year-old boy to perform oral sex has caused outrage across the country.

The Allahabad High Court in the northern Uttar Pradesh state had ruled that the man's offence did not fall under the stringent the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act’s definition of “aggravated penetrative sexual assault”, which carries a jail sentence of minimum 10 years.

Instead, the court said the offence should be viewed as “penetrative sexual assault" - a lesser offence that carries a minimum seven-year jail term.

Justice Anil Kumar Ojha of the Allahabad High Court passed his order on November 18, in which he upheld the conviction but questioned which section of POCSO would be applicable.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-sc-sets-aside-lower-courts-ruling-that-skin-to-skin-contact-is-essential-for-sexual-offence-case-430241">India's SC sets aside lower court's ruling that skin-to-skin contact is essential for sexual offence case</a>

“Perusal of the record reveals that informant and victim have supported the prosecution story and the evidence of prosecution witnesses are cogent, trustworthy, credible and probable, hence, finding with regard to conviction is confirmed,” he said.

The order caused outrage across India with many calling the judgement regressive.

Parliamentarian Mahua Moitra was among those who expressed her anger at the order.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Oral sex doesn’t fall under ‘aggravated sexual assault’ in POCSO, says Allahabad HC after Bombay HC shockingly said skin to skin contact necessary for POCSO offence. 
 
Wake up High Courts- POCSO meant to save kids from vilest crimes. Don’t dilute it.
— Mahua Moitra (@MahuaMoitra) <a href="https://twitter.com/MahuaMoitra/status/1463180603210145792?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 23, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

“Wake up High Courts - Pocso meant to save kids from vilest crimes. Don't dilute it,” she tweeted.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Allahabad HC lowers penalty imposed by Special Sessions Court on a convict guilty of having oral sex with a 10-year-old child in lieu of Rs 20 !! 
 
Reason - the crime committed by him is 'less serious' 
 
Are our Courts encouraging children prostitution by paedophiles?
— Katyusha (@Indian10000000) <a href="https://twitter.com/Indian10000000/status/1463083938302226437?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 23, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The judgement comes only days after the Supreme Court reversed a decision of the Bombay High Court which acquitted an accused who was jailed for groping a 12-year-old girl.

The high court ruled that the most important ingredient in convicting sexual offenders under POCSO Act is “sexual intent and not skin-to-skin.”

(With inputs from agencies)

A judgement by an Indian high court lowering the sentence of a man who is convicted of forcing a 10-year-old boy to perform oral sex has caused outrage across the country.

A judgement by an Indian high court lowering the sentence of a man who is convicted of forcing a 10-year-old boy to perform oral sex has caused outrage across the country. The Allahabad High Court in the northern Uttar Pradesh state had ruled that the man's offence did not fall under the stringent the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act’s definition of “aggravated penetrative sexual assault”, which carries a jail sentence of minimum 10 years. Instead, the court said the offence should be viewed as “penetrative sexual assault" - a lesser offence that carries a minimum seven-year jail term. Justice Anil Kumar Ojha of the Allahabad High Court passed his order on November 18, in which he upheld the conviction but questioned which section of POCSO would be applicable. Also read | India's SC sets aside lower court's ruling that skin-to-skin contact is essential for sexual offence case “Perusal of the record reveals that informant and victim have supported the prosecution story and the evidence of prosecution witnesses are cogent, trustworthy, credible and probable, hence, finding with regard to conviction is confirmed,” he said. The order caused outrage across India with many calling the judgement regressive. Parliamentarian Mahua Moitra was among those who expressed her anger at the order. Oral sex doesn’t fall under ‘aggravated sexual assault’ in POCSO, says Allahabad HC after Bombay HC shockingly said skin to skin contact necessary for POCSO offence. Wake up High Courts- POCSO meant to save kids from vilest crimes. Don’t dilute it. — Mahua Moitra (@MahuaMoitra) November 23, 2021 × “Wake up High Courts - Pocso meant to save kids from vilest crimes. Don't dilute it,” she tweeted. Allahabad HC lowers penalty imposed by Special Sessions Court on a convict guilty of having oral sex with a 10-year-old child in lieu of Rs 20 !! Reason - the crime committed by him is 'less serious' Are our Courts encouraging children prostitution by paedophiles? — Katyusha (@Indian10000000) November 23, 2021 × The judgement comes only days after the Supreme Court reversed a decision of the Bombay High Court which acquitted an accused who was jailed for groping a 12-year-old girl. The high court ruled that the most important ingredient in convicting sexual offenders under POCSO Act is “sexual intent and not skin-to-skin.” (With inputs from agencies)

Indian high court's judgement lowering sentence of man accused in child abuse causes outrage

The Indian and Japanese space agencies are planning a joint mission to the Moon, that is meant to explore the Polar region. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The mission, which will be known as Lunar Polar Exploration Mission (LUPEX), will feature an Indian lunar lander and a Japanese rover. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Dr Hiroshi Yamakawa, President, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) revealed this and Japan’s future mission plans, at the Sydney Dialogue, an initiative by the Australian Strategic Policy Institute. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/oxygen-on-moons-surface-may-keep-billions-alive-for-100000-years-428560" hreflang="en">Oxygen on Moon's surface may keep billions alive for 100,000 years &nbsp;</a>

Speaking of International cooperation, Dr Yamakawa said that the International Space Station was a great example, as it had ensured the continuous presence of humankind in space for more than two decades. On the need for greater collaboration between Quad countries (US-Japan-Australia-India), he added that the future lunar exploration had to be a joint effort, as there existed the possibility of having a manned space station in the vicinity of the moon, which can enable sustained exploration in the region and also on the lunar surface. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The Japanese Space agency head emphasised on the need for multi-national missions to Mars that would be led by Quad countries, owing to the high costs of manned missions. Referring to the successful Hayabusa 2 mission, he threw light on how Japan had developed the capability to land rovers on an asteroid, remain there, collect samples and return them back to earth. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Hayabusa 2 spacecraft arrived on asteroid Ryugu in June 2018, deployed rovers and landers to collect samples and then delivered it to earth on December 6, 2020 as the spacecraft swooped by earth and dropped a landing capsule containing the samples. &nbsp;&nbsp;

On Japan’s planned Mars mission, he said that the country saw the future of Mars exploration as a mix of unmanned robotic and manned. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Japan’s Martian Moons eXploration (MMX) mission aims to study Mars’ moons Phobos and Deimos, while also collecting a sample from Phobos and returning it to Earth. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/astronomers-identify-moons-small-chunk-tracking-earths-orbit-around-sun-428748" hreflang="en">Astronomers identify moon’s small chunk tracking Earth’s orbit around Sun</a>

“Multilateral international cooperation is ideal and realistic than going alone, each one can contribute in the field of their technical expertise and share the cost” he urged the heads of Quad Country Space bodies. &nbsp;&nbsp;

This announcement on the LUPEX mission with India comes at a time when many countries are teaming up with America for the Artemis programme that aims to get humans back to the moon, establish a long-term human presence and enable further exploration. &nbsp;&nbsp;

This plan is also a precursor to the mission to send astronauts to Mars. India, however, has not made any announcements pertaining to any collaboration with the Artemis mission. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The Indian and Japanese space agencies are planning a joint mission to the Moon, that is meant to explore the Polar region. The mission, which will be known as Lunar Polar Exploration Mission (LUPEX), will feature an Indian lunar lander and a Japanese rover.

The Indian and Japanese space agencies are planning a joint mission to the Moon, that is meant to explore the Polar region. The mission, which will be known as Lunar Polar Exploration Mission (LUPEX), will feature an Indian lunar lander and a Japanese rover. Dr Hiroshi Yamakawa, President, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) revealed this and Japan’s future mission plans, at the Sydney Dialogue, an initiative by the Australian Strategic Policy Institute. Also Read: Oxygen on Moon's surface may keep billions alive for 100,000 years Speaking of International cooperation, Dr Yamakawa said that the International Space Station was a great example, as it had ensured the continuous presence of humankind in space for more than two decades. On the need for greater collaboration between Quad countries (US-Japan-Australia-India), he added that the future lunar exploration had to be a joint effort, as there existed the possibility of having a manned space station in the vicinity of the moon, which can enable sustained exploration in the region and also on the lunar surface. The Japanese Space agency head emphasised on the need for multi-national missions to Mars that would be led by Quad countries, owing to the high costs of manned missions. Referring to the successful Hayabusa 2 mission, he threw light on how Japan had developed the capability to land rovers on an asteroid, remain there, collect samples and return them back to earth. Hayabusa 2 spacecraft arrived on asteroid Ryugu in June 2018, deployed rovers and landers to collect samples and then delivered it to earth on December 6, 2020 as the spacecraft swooped by earth and dropped a landing capsule containing the samples. On Japan’s planned Mars mission, he said that the country saw the future of Mars exploration as a mix of unmanned robotic and manned. Japan’s Martian Moons eXploration (MMX) mission aims to study Mars’ moons Phobos and Deimos, while also collecting a sample from Phobos and returning it to Earth. Also Read: Astronomers identify moon’s small chunk tracking Earth’s orbit around Sun “Multilateral international cooperation is ideal and realistic than going alone, each one can contribute in the field of their technical expertise and share the cost” he urged the heads of Quad Country Space bodies. This announcement on the LUPEX mission with India comes at a time when many countries are teaming up with America for the Artemis programme that aims to get humans back to the moon, establish a long-term human presence and enable further exploration. This plan is also a precursor to the mission to send astronauts to Mars. India, however, has not made any announcements pertaining to any collaboration with the Artemis mission.

Indian lunar lander, Japanese rover to explore Moon in LUPEX mission, says JAXA Official

The Indian Navy commissions INS Vela, the fourth Scorpene-class submarine today. The submarine is being commissioned by the Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Karambir Singh.

India: INS Vela is the 4th Scorpene-Class submarine commissioned in the Indian Navy

A man in India's Madhya Pradesh state has built a house resembling the Taj Mahal as a mark of love for his wife. The man named Anand Prakash Chouksey constructed a four-bedroom "house". The Mughal-era replica took over three years to build.

India: Man in central Indian state builds a 'Taj Mahal'

The India Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government has listed a bill for the upcoming Parliament session that reportedly seeks to prohibit all private cryptocurrencies with certain exceptions in India.

India: New digital cryptocurrcency to operate under Reserve Bank of India

india-news

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

india news