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India's central government has told the Supreme Court that it is not favour of working from home and prefers the option of carpool.

It comes after the apex court had asked state governments of the country to take solid steps in curbing smog that has increased severely after Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights.

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Solicitor General Tushar Mehta said : ''On work-from-home for central government employees, we have said that work has already suffered due to Covid. The number of central government vehicles in Delhi-NCR is not too high. There are more cons than pros when it comes to WFH... it will have a limited impact. We have advised carpooling.''

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-set-to-seal-3-billion-predator-drone-deal-with-us-by-current-fiscal-429862" hreflang="en">India set to seal $3 billion Predator drone deal with US by current fiscal</a>

State governments in NCR have been directed to allow work from home for at least 50 per cent of their employees in offices in NCR till Sunday and encourage private establishments to follow suit. Trucks carrying non-essential items have been banned from entering Delhi till Sunday.

More children are in hospital with breathing problems as pollution levels remain dangerously high in the city of 20 million.

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">How India’s Lunar Orbiter Chandrayaan-2 avoided Collision with NASA’s LRO</a>

India's capital has shut schools and coal plants as it battles dangerous levels of air pollution in the region.

The move comes after India led the charge at the weekend to weaken anti-coal pledges at the UN COP26 climate summit, with critics saying it prioritised economic growth over the planet's future.

Delhi's air quality improved marginally, registering the 24-hour average air quality index (AQI) at 375 on Wednesday from 403 the day before. Authorities, however, said no major improvement is likely till Sunday.

(With inputs from agencies)

India's central government has told the Supreme Court that it is not favour of working from home and prefers the option of carpool. It comes after the apex court had asked state governments of the country to take solid steps in curbing smog that has increased severely after Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights.

India's central government has told the Supreme Court that it is not favour of working from home and prefers the option of carpool. It comes after the apex court had asked state governments of the country to take solid steps in curbing smog that has increased severely after Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta said : ''On work-from-home for central government employees, we have said that work has already suffered due to Covid. The number of central government vehicles in Delhi-NCR is not too high. There are more cons than pros when it comes to WFH... it will have a limited impact. We have advised carpooling.'' Also read | India set to seal $3 billion Predator drone deal with US by current fiscal State governments in NCR have been directed to allow work from home for at least 50 per cent of their employees in offices in NCR till Sunday and encourage private establishments to follow suit. Trucks carrying non-essential items have been banned from entering Delhi till Sunday. More children are in hospital with breathing problems as pollution levels remain dangerously high in the city of 20 million. Also read | How India’s Lunar Orbiter Chandrayaan-2 avoided Collision with NASA’s LRO India's capital has shut schools and coal plants as it battles dangerous levels of air pollution in the region. The move comes after India led the charge at the weekend to weaken anti-coal pledges at the UN COP26 climate summit, with critics saying it prioritised economic growth over the planet's future. Delhi's air quality improved marginally, registering the 24-hour average air quality index (AQI) at 375 on Wednesday from 403 the day before. Authorities, however, said no major improvement is likely till Sunday. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian govt tells Supreme Court it is not in favour of work from home, prefers carpool to curb Delhi pollution

The Supreme Court of India has overturned a verdict by the Bombay High Court in a sexual assault case.

In a case under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, the apex court has&nbsp;ruled that the most important ingredient in a rape case is sexual intent and not skin-to-skin contact with the child.

The purpose of the law cannot be to allow the offender to escape the meshes of the law, it added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-to-hold-14th-round-of-talks-today-to-resolve-border-standoff-430216" hreflang="en">India, China to hold 14th round of talks today to resolve border standoff</a>

A bench headed by Justice U U Lalit said, ''We have held that when the legislature has expressed clear intention, the courts cannot create ambiguity in the provision. It is right that courts cannot be overzealous in creating ambiguity.''

''Such a narrow interpretation adopted by the high court in the impugned order would have had a cascading effect on the safety of women and children,'' it added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-parliament-passes-bill-for-chemical-castration-of-habitual-rapists-430233" hreflang="en">Pakistan parliament passes bill for chemical castration of habitual rapists&nbsp;</a>

In response, the National Commission for Women (NCW) said in a statement, "The Commission welcomes the Hon'ble Supreme Court's verdict today and believes that the apex court's decision in the matter will uphold the legal and constitutional safeguard for women and children."&nbsp;

The High Court had acquitted a 39-year-old man under the POCSO Act after he had been found guilty of sexual sexually assaulting a 12-year-old girl and sentenced him to three years of imprisonment.

He was charged with the offence of outraging a woman's modesty under IPC section 354. 
&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The Supreme Court of India has overturned a verdict by the Bombay High Court in a sexual assault case. In a case under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, the apex court has ruled that the most important ingredient in a rape case is sexual intent and not skin-to-skin contact with the child.

The Supreme Court of India has overturned a verdict by the Bombay High Court in a sexual assault case. In a case under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, the apex court has ruled that the most important ingredient in a rape case is sexual intent and not skin-to-skin contact with the child. The purpose of the law cannot be to allow the offender to escape the meshes of the law, it added. Also read | India, China to hold 14th round of talks today to resolve border standoff A bench headed by Justice U U Lalit said, ''We have held that when the legislature has expressed clear intention, the courts cannot create ambiguity in the provision. It is right that courts cannot be overzealous in creating ambiguity.'' ''Such a narrow interpretation adopted by the high court in the impugned order would have had a cascading effect on the safety of women and children,'' it added. Also read | Pakistan parliament passes bill for chemical castration of habitual rapists In response, the National Commission for Women (NCW) said in a statement, "The Commission welcomes the Hon'ble Supreme Court's verdict today and believes that the apex court's decision in the matter will uphold the legal and constitutional safeguard for women and children." The High Court had acquitted a 39-year-old man under the POCSO Act after he had been found guilty of sexual sexually assaulting a 12-year-old girl and sentenced him to three years of imprisonment. He was charged with the offence of outraging a woman's modesty under IPC section 354. (With inputs from agencies)

India's SC sets aside lower court's ruling that skin-to-skin contact is essential for sexual offence case

According to the Indian Meteorological Department(IMD), the weather system (low-pressure area) that has been brewing off India’s East Coast has intensified into a Depression.

Situated over the Southwest Bay of Bengal, this evolving weather system is likely to bring isolated extremely heavy rainfalls over Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Karaikal, and Rayalaseema, besides very heavy rainfall over south interior Karnataka and South Coastal Andhra Pradesh, on Thursday.&nbsp;

Winds are forecast to be gusting upto 65kmph in the Southwest and west-central Bay of Bengal and off Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and south Andhra Pradesh coasts until Friday, following which there will be a gradual decrease.

Also see |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/heavy-rains-kill-at-least-14-in-indias-chennai-rescue-work-underway-428490">Heavy rains kill at least 14 in India's Chennai, rescue work underway</a>

Owing to the harsh weather and very rough sea conditions over this region, fishermen have been advised to not venture out into the seas, in the next 24 hours.&nbsp;

Satellite images indicate that the weather system lay nearly 200kms southeast of Chennai and 160km East-Southeast of Puducherry.

IMD predicts that the depression will continue to move west-northwestwards and cross North Tamil Nadu and adjoining South Andhra Pradesh Coasts between Puducherry and Chennai by the morning hours of Friday, November 19.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-set-to-seal-3-billion-predator-drone-deal-with-us-by-current-fiscal-429862" hreflang="en">India set to seal $3 billion Predator drone deal with US by current fiscal</a>

Thus far, Chennai Airport operations are progressing normally and arrivals and departures of flights are continuing as usual. This is an important information that flyers need to watch out for, as the city airport had suspended flight arrivals for upto five hours in the earlier week, owing to intense crosswinds that make landings challenging.&nbsp;

Following the severe rain-caused inundation that threw normal life out of gear in the metropolis, the Chennai Civic Body has kept nearly 690 motor pumps and 50 boats ready in low-lying areas, drains are being cleared of garbage and de-silting of stormwater drains re being carried out.&nbsp;

Nearly 10 National Disaster Response Force(NDRF) teams have also been kept on standby in Chennai and adjoining districts to mitigate any situation that may arise. However, the city hasn’t been witnessing continuous sharp spells of rains. Between Wednesday and Thursday, the city had received a few sharp spells of rain that lasted a few minutes and such spells kept recurring every few hours.&nbsp;

According to the Indian Meteorological Department(IMD), the weather system (low-pressure area) that has been brewing off India’s East Coast has intensified into a Depression.

According to the Indian Meteorological Department(IMD), the weather system (low-pressure area) that has been brewing off India’s East Coast has intensified into a Depression. Situated over the Southwest Bay of Bengal, this evolving weather system is likely to bring isolated extremely heavy rainfalls over Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Karaikal, and Rayalaseema, besides very heavy rainfall over south interior Karnataka and South Coastal Andhra Pradesh, on Thursday. Winds are forecast to be gusting upto 65kmph in the Southwest and west-central Bay of Bengal and off Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and south Andhra Pradesh coasts until Friday, following which there will be a gradual decrease. Also see | Heavy rains kill at least 14 in India's Chennai, rescue work underway Owing to the harsh weather and very rough sea conditions over this region, fishermen have been advised to not venture out into the seas, in the next 24 hours. Satellite images indicate that the weather system lay nearly 200kms southeast of Chennai and 160km East-Southeast of Puducherry. IMD predicts that the depression will continue to move west-northwestwards and cross North Tamil Nadu and adjoining South Andhra Pradesh Coasts between Puducherry and Chennai by the morning hours of Friday, November 19. Also read | India set to seal $3 billion Predator drone deal with US by current fiscal Thus far, Chennai Airport operations are progressing normally and arrivals and departures of flights are continuing as usual. This is an important information that flyers need to watch out for, as the city airport had suspended flight arrivals for upto five hours in the earlier week, owing to intense crosswinds that make landings challenging. Following the severe rain-caused inundation that threw normal life out of gear in the metropolis, the Chennai Civic Body has kept nearly 690 motor pumps and 50 boats ready in low-lying areas, drains are being cleared of garbage and de-silting of stormwater drains re being carried out. Nearly 10 National Disaster Response Force(NDRF) teams have also been kept on standby in Chennai and adjoining districts to mitigate any situation that may arise. However, the city hasn’t been witnessing continuous sharp spells of rains. Between Wednesday and Thursday, the city had received a few sharp spells of rain that lasted a few minutes and such spells kept recurring every few hours.

IMD predicts extremely heavy rains for Chennai, adjoining districts

India and China will hold the the14th round of talks on resolving the eastern Ladakh border standoff on Thursday.

The talks will be held under the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination on India-China Border Affairs (WMCC).

There are three major friction points between India and China: Pangong lake, Gogra point and Hot Springs area.

The two sides completed the disengagement process on the north and south banks of the Pangong lake in February and in the Gogra area in August.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/new-satellite-images-expose-chinas-latest-land-grabbing-attempts-in-bhutan-4-new-villages-in-one-year-430168">New satellite images expose China’s latest land grabbing attempts in Bhutan: 4 new villages in one year</a>

According to reports, the 14th round of talks is likely to focus on disengagement from the Hot Springs area and Depsang plains.

The last round of military talks on October 10 ended in a stalemate. At that meeting, India said the Chinese were not being accommodative.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-doesnt-want-deeper-us-india-relations-taking-actions-to-press-territorial-claims-with-neighbour-us-426795">China doesn’t want deeper US-India relations, taking 'actions’ to press territorial claims with neighbour: US</a>

“The Indian side made constructive suggestions for resolving the remaining areas, but the Chinese side was not agreeable and also could not provide any forward-looking proposals. The meeting thus did not result in resolution of the remaining areas,’’ the MEA had then said in a statement.

The stand-off between India and China erupted on May 5 last year following a violent clash in the Pangong lake area between both the country’s soldiers.

Both sides had then amassed troops at the border anticipating further clashes. The stalemate ensued for several months, until it was decided to disengage at the border.

Each side currently has around 50,000 to 60,000 troops along the LAC.

(With inputs from agencies)

India and China will hold the the14th round of talks on resolving the eastern Ladakh border standoff on Thursday. The talks will be held under the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination on India-China Border Affairs (WMCC).

India and China will hold the the14th round of talks on resolving the eastern Ladakh border standoff on Thursday. The talks will be held under the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination on India-China Border Affairs (WMCC). There are three major friction points between India and China: Pangong lake, Gogra point and Hot Springs area. The two sides completed the disengagement process on the north and south banks of the Pangong lake in February and in the Gogra area in August. Also read | New satellite images expose China’s latest land grabbing attempts in Bhutan: 4 new villages in one year According to reports, the 14th round of talks is likely to focus on disengagement from the Hot Springs area and Depsang plains. The last round of military talks on October 10 ended in a stalemate. At that meeting, India said the Chinese were not being accommodative. Also read | China doesn’t want deeper US-India relations, taking 'actions’ to press territorial claims with neighbour: US “The Indian side made constructive suggestions for resolving the remaining areas, but the Chinese side was not agreeable and also could not provide any forward-looking proposals. The meeting thus did not result in resolution of the remaining areas,’’ the MEA had then said in a statement. The stand-off between India and China erupted on May 5 last year following a violent clash in the Pangong lake area between both the country’s soldiers. Both sides had then amassed troops at the border anticipating further clashes. The stalemate ensued for several months, until it was decided to disengage at the border. Each side currently has around 50,000 to 60,000 troops along the LAC. (With inputs from agencies)

India, China to hold 14th round of talks today to resolve border standoff

Kulbhushan Jadhav, the Indian national on death row in Pakistan, got the right to appeal the sentence as Pakistani parliament passed a bill enabling him to do so as ordered by the International Court of Justice (ICJ).&nbsp;

Pakistan claims that Kulbhushan Jadhav is a spy, while India maintains that he was abducted from Iran while conducting his own business.

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Jadhav was sentenced to death by a military court in Pakistan 2017. India had then approached the ICJ and was able to obtain a stay on the Pakistani court order.

In 2020, Imran Khan government had presented an ordinance in Pakistan's National Assembly in accordance with the International Court of Justice verdict. Pakistan's Opposition parties had opposed this move.

ICJ, based at The Hague, had asked Pakistan in 2019 to ensure "effective review and reconsideration" of the death sentence handed to Jadhav and also given instruction to provide him consular access.

"Pakistan was under an obligation to provide, by means of its own choosing, effective review and reconsideration of the conviction and sentence of Mr. Jadhav, so as to ensure that full weight was given to the effect of the violation of the rights set forth in Article 36 of the Vienna Convention," ICJ had observed.

Kulbhushan Jadhav, the Indian national on death row in Pakistan, got the right to appeal the sentence as Pakistani parliament passed a bill enabling him to do so as ordered by the International Court of Justice (ICJ).

Kulbhushan Jadhav, the Indian national on death row in Pakistan, got the right to appeal the sentence as Pakistani parliament passed a bill enabling him to do so as ordered by the International Court of Justice (ICJ). Pakistan claims that Kulbhushan Jadhav is a spy, while India maintains that he was abducted from Iran while conducting his own business. × Jadhav was sentenced to death by a military court in Pakistan 2017. India had then approached the ICJ and was able to obtain a stay on the Pakistani court order. In 2020, Imran Khan government had presented an ordinance in Pakistan's National Assembly in accordance with the International Court of Justice verdict. Pakistan's Opposition parties had opposed this move. ICJ, based at The Hague, had asked Pakistan in 2019 to ensure "effective review and reconsideration" of the death sentence handed to Jadhav and also given instruction to provide him consular access. "Pakistan was under an obligation to provide, by means of its own choosing, effective review and reconsideration of the conviction and sentence of Mr. Jadhav, so as to ensure that full weight was given to the effect of the violation of the rights set forth in Article 36 of the Vienna Convention," ICJ had observed.

Pak parliament passes bill enabling Kulbhushan Jadhav's right to appeal as ordered by ICJ

The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) and the Indian Railways have introduced the “pod concept” of bed-sized rooms at the Mumbai Central railway station. The rooms aim at making people's journey "comfortable and easy," said the Ministry of Railways.&nbsp;

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Travelling by train on a short business trip or taking a group of students on a tour, POD rooms at Mumbai Central station are here to make your journey comfortable and easy. <a href="https://t.co/7yfbSfeZ9g">pic.twitter.com/7yfbSfeZ9g</a>
— Ministry of Railways (@RailMinIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/RailMinIndia/status/1460852148636303362?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Sneak Peek! 
Welcome to the new-age Pod retiring rooms by <a href="https://twitter.com/RailMinIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RailMinIndia</a> at Mumbai Central. <a href="https://t.co/NR7OCsxYeg">pic.twitter.com/NR7OCsxYeg</a>
— Ashwini Vaishnaw (@AshwiniVaishnaw) <a href="https://twitter.com/AshwiniVaishnaw/status/1460994254923128836?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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A pod hotel comprises various small capsule-like rooms. The aim is to provide affordable overnight accommodation for those who cannot afford it otherwise. "Travelling by train on a short business trip or taking a group of students on a tour, POD rooms at Mumbai Central station are here to make your journey comfortable and easy," the Ministry of Railways wrote on Twitter.&nbsp;

The facility at Mumbai Central has a total of 48 pods, which are further divided into three categories - 30 classics, 7 ladies only, 10 private. One is for the differently-abled.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/two-unruly-us-tourists-break-into-colosseum-get-eu800-fine-for-enjoying-beer-430160">Also read |&nbsp;Two unruly US tourists break into Colosseum, get €800 fine for ‘enjoying’ beer</a>

As per IRCTC, the tariffs will vary, based on requirements. It will be around ₹999 per person for 12 hours, going up to ₹1,999 per person for 24 hours.

The first pod hotel on the Indian Railways was inaugurated virtually by the Union minister of state for Railways Raosaheb Danve from the Churchgate station in south Mumbai. The minister also inaugurated various passenger amenities.

The concept of a pod hotel originates from Japan. They include various facilities like WiFi, air conditioning, key card access, washrooms and CCTV surveillance.&nbsp;

The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) and the Indian Railways have introduced the “pod concept” of bed-sized rooms at the Mumbai Central railway station.

The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) and the Indian Railways have introduced the “pod concept” of bed-sized rooms at the Mumbai Central railway station. The rooms aim at making people's journey "comfortable and easy," said the Ministry of Railways. Travelling by train on a short business trip or taking a group of students on a tour, POD rooms at Mumbai Central station are here to make your journey comfortable and easy. pic.twitter.com/7yfbSfeZ9g — Ministry of Railways (@RailMinIndia) November 17, 2021 × Sneak Peek! Welcome to the new-age Pod retiring rooms by @RailMinIndia at Mumbai Central. pic.twitter.com/NR7OCsxYeg — Ashwini Vaishnaw (@AshwiniVaishnaw) November 17, 2021 × A pod hotel comprises various small capsule-like rooms. The aim is to provide affordable overnight accommodation for those who cannot afford it otherwise. "Travelling by train on a short business trip or taking a group of students on a tour, POD rooms at Mumbai Central station are here to make your journey comfortable and easy," the Ministry of Railways wrote on Twitter. The facility at Mumbai Central has a total of 48 pods, which are further divided into three categories - 30 classics, 7 ladies only, 10 private. One is for the differently-abled. Also read | Two unruly US tourists break into Colosseum, get €800 fine for ‘enjoying’ beer As per IRCTC, the tariffs will vary, based on requirements. It will be around ₹999 per person for 12 hours, going up to ₹1,999 per person for 24 hours. The first pod hotel on the Indian Railways was inaugurated virtually by the Union minister of state for Railways Raosaheb Danve from the Churchgate station in south Mumbai. The minister also inaugurated various passenger amenities. The concept of a pod hotel originates from Japan. They include various facilities like WiFi, air conditioning, key card access, washrooms and CCTV surveillance.

'Comfortable and easy': First 'pod hotel' inaugurated at Mumbai Central railway station

The Indian government has finally decided to reopen the Kartarpur Sahib corridor from Wednesday ahead of the birth anniversary of the founder of Sikhism Guru Nanak Dev. The corridor provides visa-free travel from India to Pakistan and vice-versa.

Kartarpur Sahib corridor to reopen tomorrow ahead of birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev

As New Delhi battles toxic smog, all schools, colleges and educational institutions in the national capital of Delhi and NCR have been instructed to remain shut until further notice. The CAQM, an agency under the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) also decided to shut down all industries that are running on non-gas fuels for all NCR states. The directives also ordered a ban on construction with exemptions till 21 November.

New Delhi shuts down schools, power plants amid air pollution crises

A heartwrenching video of a mother elephant trying to revive her three-year-old dead calf has gone viral on social media.

The tragic video from Kerala shows a tusker lying down on the ground and groaning in agony after getting electrocuted.

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Heart-wrenching! A mother elephant tries to wake a three-year-old dead calf after the tusker came in contact with an electric wire in Palakkad district of the southern Indian state of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kerala?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kerala</a> 
 
(Disclaimer: Some viewers may find the video disturbing) <a href="https://t.co/RKZ6O3kRfS">pic.twitter.com/RKZ6O3kRfS</a>
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The elephant's mother can be seen using its trunk to poke and prod its calf in order to help it get up.

Officials in the forests at Malampuzha near Palakkad district said that the exact cause of the death will be known after the post-mortem.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/elephant-killed-after-being-fed-with-pineapple-stuffed-with-crackers-303011">Also read |&nbsp;Elephant killed after being fed with pineapple stuffed with crackers</a>

''There was a live wire that connected to a borewell, and the elephant seems to have come in contact with it,'' said Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) Kurra Srinivas.

Meanwhile, residents said the herd of elephants had entered a private estate where the calf tried to chew the wire of an electric pump and got a shock as a result.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/how-indian-forest-officials-attempted-to-reunite-a-baby-elephant-that-was-separated-from-its-herd-419236">Also read |&nbsp;How Indian Forest officials attempted to reunite a baby elephant that was separated from its herd</a>

The incident triggered tension in the area with a large number of people gathering to see the dead elephant.

An inquiry has been launched to check whether rules were followed or there were any lapses.

Last year, a pregnant elephant in the same state had died after it was fed a pineapple stuffed with crackers.

(With inputs from agencies)

A heartwrenching video of a mother elephant trying to revive her three-year-old dead calf has gone viral on social media. The tragic video from Kerala shows a tusker lying down on the ground and groaning in agony after getting electrocuted.

A heartwrenching video of a mother elephant trying to revive her three-year-old dead calf has gone viral on social media. The tragic video from Kerala shows a tusker lying down on the ground and groaning in agony after getting electrocuted. Heart-wrenching! A mother elephant tries to wake a three-year-old dead calf after the tusker came in contact with an electric wire in Palakkad district of the southern Indian state of #Kerala (Disclaimer: Some viewers may find the video disturbing) pic.twitter.com/RKZ6O3kRfS — WION (@WIONews) November 17, 2021 × The elephant's mother can be seen using its trunk to poke and prod its calf in order to help it get up. Officials in the forests at Malampuzha near Palakkad district said that the exact cause of the death will be known after the post-mortem. Also read | Elephant killed after being fed with pineapple stuffed with crackers ''There was a live wire that connected to a borewell, and the elephant seems to have come in contact with it,'' said Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) Kurra Srinivas. Meanwhile, residents said the herd of elephants had entered a private estate where the calf tried to chew the wire of an electric pump and got a shock as a result. Also read | How Indian Forest officials attempted to reunite a baby elephant that was separated from its herd The incident triggered tension in the area with a large number of people gathering to see the dead elephant. An inquiry has been launched to check whether rules were followed or there were any lapses. Last year, a pregnant elephant in the same state had died after it was fed a pineapple stuffed with crackers. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: This mom elephant is trying to revive offspring struck down by electric wire in India

Jammu and&nbsp;Kashmir&nbsp;has become a hub of drugs. A recent study has revealed that Jammu&nbsp;Kashmir&nbsp;has 600,000&nbsp;people involved in drug-related issues which are approximately 4.6 per cent&nbsp;of the population of the Union Territory.

90 per cent&nbsp;of these drug users are in the age group of 17-33 years.

A meeting was called by the Chief Secretary of Jammu and&nbsp;Kashmir&nbsp;where the state-level committee of the narco coordination centre&nbsp;outlined a project for tackling the drug menace in the Union Territory.&nbsp;

In recent years, the number of drug abusers has increased by many folds in the UT. There is a change in the pattern of drugs used as well.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-likely-to-get-first-openly-gay-person-as-judge-of-high-court-430016" hreflang="en">India likely to get first openly gay person as judge of high court</a>

Illicit drugs like heroin, cocaine, and brown sugar are available in the drug market. 90 percent of the patients enrolling in drug de-addiction centres are using heroin.&nbsp;

''The number is increasing, as per our OPD's we see around 40-50 patients every day and the kind of addiction we are seeing is very dangerous. Most of them are using illicit drugs like heroin and brown sugar and that too via injections. It's very dangerous because they get infections like hepatitis c and hepatitis b and also HIV,''&nbsp;said Dr Yasir Rather, Professor, Incharge drug de-addiction center, SMHS, GMC Srinagar.

In fact what we saw in our study is that there is an epidemic within an epidemic. It's become very common&nbsp;in these patients. And It leads to chronic liver diseases resulting in death. From last one decade the numbers are increasing and also the pattern has changed. What we are seeing is illicit drugs are being used commonly like heroin and brown sugar. Around 90 percent of our opd cases are using heroin. There are multiple factors related. '' he added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/great-gesture-indian-pm-lauds-minister-bhagwat-karad-for-helping-co-passenger-mid-flight-429930" hreflang="en">Indian minister Bhagwat Karad helps co-passenger mid-flight, earns PM's praise</a>

The Psychiatric Hospital in Srinagar did a survey in two districts of&nbsp;Kashmir&nbsp;Valley. What they found was shocking and alarming. In Srinagar and Anantnag districts only, 18000 people were using illicit drugs which amounted to 3.5 crore rupees every day.&nbsp;

 
''We did a survey in two districts Srinagar and Anantnag, In that survey, we saw how much is the economic&nbsp;burden of addiction. We found 18000 people using these illicit drugs that are heroin and in that we found 3.5 crores rupees were spent on procuring these drugs on a daily basis. '' said Dr Yasir Rather, Professor, Incharge drug de addiction center, SMHS, GMC Srinagar.

The drug addicts who are being treated at the Government De-Addiction centre in Srinagar say that drugs are easily available across the&nbsp;Kashmir&nbsp;Valley. Once they get addicted to these substances, they go to any extent to get them. One such story is of Showkat Ahmad Sheikh, A labourer by profession, Showkat &nbsp;was about to sell his baby as he was falling short of money to get drugs. He even took the advance payment to sell his own baby for money so that he could get drugs.&nbsp;

'''It used to be cheaper earlier, but now it's become expensive. Every household has one addict and I have been on drugs for three years. I used to work as a labourer. And I used to spend all my money on drugs. During that period only my wife was pregnant. And when she delivered the baby in the hospital, I tried selling my own child to make money to get drugs,'' said former drug abuser&nbsp;Showkat Ahmad Sheikh.

I was in the hospital and some ladies asked me if I could find them a couple to give them a child and hearing this I decided to sell my own baby. They had offered me ten lac rupees and I had said yes. I even took 20 thousand rupees from them.&nbsp;&nbsp;I spent 15 thousand for 3 gms of substance. They later paid me 60 thousand rupees. Later I realised what I was about to do. I was thinking of stealing my own baby. I am begging people who are involved in the drugs to stay away,&nbsp;'' he added.

The biggest problem is the easy availability of these illicit drugs across the UT. The drug abusers say that From cocaine&nbsp;to heroin to brown sugar, everything is available&nbsp;over a phone call. This menace has also led to an increase in crime rate in some areas.&nbsp;

According to&nbsp;former drug abuser&nbsp;Mohammad Umar, ''I started with cigarettes&nbsp;and due to unemployment I started getting involved in various drugs. I wouldnt like to reveal everything but I was addicted to F10 and F11. Drugs are available everywhere, you should just have the money. There is a chain which starts in South&nbsp;Kashmir's Sangam area, the government&nbsp;needs to take action on them. Most of the drugs are charas, cocaine, brown sugar and Heroin. Srinagar gets all its supplies from these areas.''

''I would want the Police to intervene and put the drug dealers behind the bar. We need to stop it from the very first level of the chain. I have been coming to this rehab centre for more than a year and I am thankful to Dr Yasir who has helped me a lot to deal with the addiction. Now I am etally and physically fit. I would appeal to all boys and girls to stay away from drugs. I was working and spending all the money, used to ask my parents for money then I decided either I have to steal or leave this menace. I managed to give up on drugs. Unemployment is one of the major reasons for getting into these things,&nbsp;'' he added.&nbsp;

The Jammu and&nbsp;Kashmir&nbsp;police have recovered Illicit drugs from various parts of the Union Territory worth crores of rupees. The Police also say that most of the drugs supplied come from across the border of Pakistan.

Many such consignments were recovered mostly in areas close to the Line of Control, like Kupwara and Uri. Also, a lot of these drug&nbsp;consignments were dropped via drones from across the International borders in different&nbsp;parts of Jammu.&nbsp;

Jammu and Kashmir has become a hub of drugs. A recent study has revealed that Jammu Kashmir has 600,000 people involved in drug-related issues which are approximately 4.

Jammu and Kashmir has become a hub of drugs. A recent study has revealed that Jammu Kashmir has 600,000 people involved in drug-related issues which are approximately 4.6 per cent of the population of the Union Territory. 90 per cent of these drug users are in the age group of 17-33 years. A meeting was called by the Chief Secretary of Jammu and Kashmir where the state-level committee of the narco coordination centre outlined a project for tackling the drug menace in the Union Territory. In recent years, the number of drug abusers has increased by many folds in the UT. There is a change in the pattern of drugs used as well. Also read | India likely to get first openly gay person as judge of high court Illicit drugs like heroin, cocaine, and brown sugar are available in the drug market. 90 percent of the patients enrolling in drug de-addiction centres are using heroin. ''The number is increasing, as per our OPD's we see around 40-50 patients every day and the kind of addiction we are seeing is very dangerous. Most of them are using illicit drugs like heroin and brown sugar and that too via injections. It's very dangerous because they get infections like hepatitis c and hepatitis b and also HIV,'' said Dr Yasir Rather, Professor, Incharge drug de-addiction center, SMHS, GMC Srinagar. In fact what we saw in our study is that there is an epidemic within an epidemic. It's become very common in these patients. And It leads to chronic liver diseases resulting in death. From last one decade the numbers are increasing and also the pattern has changed. What we are seeing is illicit drugs are being used commonly like heroin and brown sugar. Around 90 percent of our opd cases are using heroin. There are multiple factors related. '' he added. Also read | Indian minister Bhagwat Karad helps co-passenger mid-flight, earns PM's praise The Psychiatric Hospital in Srinagar did a survey in two districts of Kashmir Valley. What they found was shocking and alarming. In Srinagar and Anantnag districts only, 18000 people were using illicit drugs which amounted to 3.5 crore rupees every day. ''We did a survey in two districts Srinagar and Anantnag, In that survey, we saw how much is the economic burden of addiction. We found 18000 people using these illicit drugs that are heroin and in that we found 3.5 crores rupees were spent on procuring these drugs on a daily basis. '' said Dr Yasir Rather, Professor, Incharge drug de addiction center, SMHS, GMC Srinagar. The drug addicts who are being treated at the Government De-Addiction centre in Srinagar say that drugs are easily available across the Kashmir Valley. Once they get addicted to these substances, they go to any extent to get them. One such story is of Showkat Ahmad Sheikh, A labourer by profession, Showkat was about to sell his baby as he was falling short of money to get drugs. He even took the advance payment to sell his own baby for money so that he could get drugs. '''It used to be cheaper earlier, but now it's become expensive. Every household has one addict and I have been on drugs for three years. I used to work as a labourer. And I used to spend all my money on drugs. During that period only my wife was pregnant. And when she delivered the baby in the hospital, I tried selling my own child to make money to get drugs,'' said former drug abuser Showkat Ahmad Sheikh. I was in the hospital and some ladies asked me if I could find them a couple to give them a child and hearing this I decided to sell my own baby. They had offered me ten lac rupees and I had said yes. I even took 20 thousand rupees from them. I spent 15 thousand for 3 gms of substance. They later paid me 60 thousand rupees. Later I realised what I was about to do. I was thinking of stealing my own baby. I am begging people who are involved in the drugs to stay away, '' he added. The biggest problem is the easy availability of these illicit drugs across the UT. The drug abusers say that From cocaine to heroin to brown sugar, everything is available over a phone call. This menace has also led to an increase in crime rate in some areas. According to former drug abuser Mohammad Umar, ''I started with cigarettes and due to unemployment I started getting involved in various drugs. I wouldnt like to reveal everything but I was addicted to F10 and F11. Drugs are available everywhere, you should just have the money. There is a chain which starts in South Kashmir's Sangam area, the government needs to take action on them. Most of the drugs are charas, cocaine, brown sugar and Heroin. Srinagar gets all its supplies from these areas.'' ''I would want the Police to intervene and put the drug dealers behind the bar. We need to stop it from the very first level of the chain. I have been coming to this rehab centre for more than a year and I am thankful to Dr Yasir who has helped me a lot to deal with the addiction. Now I am etally and physically fit. I would appeal to all boys and girls to stay away from drugs. I was working and spending all the money, used to ask my parents for money then I decided either I have to steal or leave this menace. I managed to give up on drugs. Unemployment is one of the major reasons for getting into these things, '' he added. The Jammu and Kashmir police have recovered Illicit drugs from various parts of the Union Territory worth crores of rupees. The Police also say that most of the drugs supplied come from across the border of Pakistan. Many such consignments were recovered mostly in areas close to the Line of Control, like Kupwara and Uri. Also, a lot of these drug consignments were dropped via drones from across the International borders in different parts of Jammu.

600,000 youngsters in Jammu and Kashmir have become drug addicts: Study

Soon, India will get its first openly gay person as a judge of a high court.

According to reports, the Supreme Court collegium has recommended the elevation of senior advocate Saurabh Kirpal as a judge in the Delhi high court.

If the recommendation is approved by the central government, Kirpal will be the first openly gay judge of a constitutional court in India.

“The Supreme Court Collegium, in its meeting held on 11th November, 2021, has approved the proposal for elevation of Shri Saurabh Kirpal, advocate, as judge in the Delhi High Court,” read the collegium’s resolution stated.

49-year-old Kripal&nbsp;has been an advocate for LGBTQ rights in India. He was the lawyer for Navtej Singh Johar and Ritu Dalmia, the two petitioners who fought against the removal of Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code which criminalises homosexuality.

It was in this landmark case&nbsp;that the Supreme Court decriminalised homosexuality in India in 2018.

However, this is not the first time that he was recommended for the judge post. Earlier in 2017, the intelligence officials were tasked to carry out mandatory background check on him after his name was recommended.

But his elevation was deferred after the officials came out with an adverse report in 2018 and 2019, suggesting Kirpal’s partner, who is a foreign national, might pose a security risk.

In March 2021, former Chief Justice of India (CJI) Bobde, writing to the Union government, sought additional information and more clarity on its reservations over his elevation.

But the government reiterated its apprehensions against his partner in April.

Later that time, Kirpal was designated as a senior advocate by the Delhi high court after all 31 judges of the high court unanimously endorsed his designation.

Following the recommendations by the judges of Delhi high court, the current CJI justice Ramana and the four other most senior judges of the collegium, after consulting the other judges in the top court, decided to send Kirpal’s name for appointment as a judge in the Delhi high court.

(With inputs from agencies)

Soon, India will get its first openly gay person as a judge of a high court. According to reports, the Supreme Court collegium has recommended the elevation of senior advocate Saurabh Kirpal as a judge in the Delhi high court.

Soon, India will get its first openly gay person as a judge of a high court. According to reports, the Supreme Court collegium has recommended the elevation of senior advocate Saurabh Kirpal as a judge in the Delhi high court. If the recommendation is approved by the central government, Kirpal will be the first openly gay judge of a constitutional court in India. “The Supreme Court Collegium, in its meeting held on 11th November, 2021, has approved the proposal for elevation of Shri Saurabh Kirpal, advocate, as judge in the Delhi High Court,” read the collegium’s resolution stated. 49-year-old Kripal has been an advocate for LGBTQ rights in India. He was the lawyer for Navtej Singh Johar and Ritu Dalmia, the two petitioners who fought against the removal of Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code which criminalises homosexuality. It was in this landmark case that the Supreme Court decriminalised homosexuality in India in 2018. However, this is not the first time that he was recommended for the judge post. Earlier in 2017, the intelligence officials were tasked to carry out mandatory background check on him after his name was recommended. But his elevation was deferred after the officials came out with an adverse report in 2018 and 2019, suggesting Kirpal’s partner, who is a foreign national, might pose a security risk. In March 2021, former Chief Justice of India (CJI) Bobde, writing to the Union government, sought additional information and more clarity on its reservations over his elevation. But the government reiterated its apprehensions against his partner in April. Later that time, Kirpal was designated as a senior advocate by the Delhi high court after all 31 judges of the high court unanimously endorsed his designation. Following the recommendations by the judges of Delhi high court, the current CJI justice Ramana and the four other most senior judges of the collegium, after consulting the other judges in the top court, decided to send Kirpal’s name for appointment as a judge in the Delhi high court. (With inputs from agencies)

India likely to get first openly gay person as judge of high court

To boost India’s capacity and firepower to counter threats Visakhapatnam, an indigenous stealth-guided missile destroyer, will be commissioned on November 21.

INS Visakhapatnam: Know all about India's new guided-missile destroyer

India is famous for its rich culture and diversity. A wedding in the southern part of the country was an amalgamation of the Communist Party.

Among the wedding guests of this unique wedding were Marx, Lenin, and Ho Chi Minh. Their friend Engels was tying the knot.

However, none of them are from Germany, Russia, or Vietnam as people would generally assume upon hearing those names.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/socialism-weds-mamata-banerjee-with-communism-leninism-and-marxism-as-special-guests-390813">Socialism weds Mamata Banerjee, with Communism, Leninism, and Marxism as special guests</a>

&nbsp;

As per the newspaper Mathrubhumi, while Engels and Lenin are brothers, Marx and Ho Chi Minh are the sons of a local party activist.

What they have in common is that they all are active members of the Communist Party.

A similar incident had taken place in June when Socialism married off in front of brothers Communism, Leninism, and Marxism.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-set-to-seal-3-billion-predator-drone-deal-with-us-by-current-fiscal-429862" hreflang="en">India set to seal $3 billion Predator drone deal with US by current fiscal</a>

The bride, called P. Mamata Banerjee, is also named after a female politician in the state of Western Bengal.

Interestingly, she is responsible for ending decades of communist rule in the state back in 2011.

Revolutionary names like Stalin and Trotsky popular are extremely popular in Southern India.

In the last six decades, the hammer and the sickle have ruled in the state of Kerala. This inclination towards the Soviet Union began during the Cold War.

(With inputs from agencies)

India is famous for its rich culture and diversity. A wedding in the southern part of the country was an amalgamation of the Communist Party. Among the wedding guests of this unique wedding were Marx, Lenin, and Ho Chi Minh.

India is famous for its rich culture and diversity. A wedding in the southern part of the country was an amalgamation of the Communist Party. Among the wedding guests of this unique wedding were Marx, Lenin, and Ho Chi Minh. Their friend Engels was tying the knot. However, none of them are from Germany, Russia, or Vietnam as people would generally assume upon hearing those names. Also read | Socialism weds Mamata Banerjee, with Communism, Leninism, and Marxism as special guests As per the newspaper Mathrubhumi, while Engels and Lenin are brothers, Marx and Ho Chi Minh are the sons of a local party activist. What they have in common is that they all are active members of the Communist Party. A similar incident had taken place in June when Socialism married off in front of brothers Communism, Leninism, and Marxism. Also read | India set to seal $3 billion Predator drone deal with US by current fiscal The bride, called P. Mamata Banerjee, is also named after a female politician in the state of Western Bengal. Interestingly, she is responsible for ending decades of communist rule in the state back in 2011. Revolutionary names like Stalin and Trotsky popular are extremely popular in Southern India. In the last six decades, the hammer and the sickle have ruled in the state of Kerala. This inclination towards the Soviet Union began during the Cold War. (With inputs from agencies)

This unique wedding in India had Marx and Lenin as guests

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's cabinet minister Bhagwat Karad saved the life of a co-passenger by giving first-aid on an IndiGo flight from Delhi to Mumbai on November 16. Dr Karad's action received wide appreciation and Prime Minister Narendra Modi also praised his "great gesture".

India's union minister Bhagwat Karad saves life of passenger mid-air

India’s Bimal Patel, who has been elected to the UN’s International Law Commission, has called for regional voices from Africa and Asia in the international law-making process.

Professor Patel, who is also the vice-chancellor of Rashtriya Raksha University, Gujarat, and a member of the 21st Law Commission of India, has been elected for 5 years, starting from January 1, 2023.

Speaking exclusively to WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Patel said, “Until and unless due importance to regional voices, be it, Africa, Asia, are not given in the international law making process, the laws can hardly have any appeal or the utility to the international community as a whole."

He got overwhelming support during the election, with 163 votes in 192 members present and voting. India topped in the Asia Pacific group.

International&nbsp;Law Commission, which holds its session in Geneva, has 34 member countries. The commission deals with the codification of international law. Laws like the Rome statute, and UNCLOS owe their origin to the proposals by the commission.&nbsp;

WION: Your first reaction to you being elected to the international law commission?

Patel: It is my great pleasure and honour. I thank our honourable PM (Modi), Home Minister (Amit Shah), External Affairs Minister (S Jaishankar) and the entire ministry for having faith in me and for their efforts in securing the highest votes for India for the term 2023-2027. It is a matter of great pride. I would like to live up to the expectations of the country with utmost sincerity, hard work and commitment.&nbsp;

WION: You met the leadership in Delhi. What was their message to you?

Patel:&nbsp;There is a huge revival and importance of international law. The international law is not just for development, but also for security, and in some cases important to the very survival of nation-states. So, international law has never received so much importance as of now especially in India, which is increasing its quality footprint in terms of brining a global voice, not just for India but also in similarly situated countries. To develop international law as a common language to resolve a number of problems and forge international cooperation and friendship, thereby the Ministry of External Affairs and the country is looking forward as to what international law has for the country and how international law can become a vehicle for cooperation and friendship.

WION: Can you tell us a bit about the importance of the commission?

Patel:&nbsp;International Law Commission (ILC) is a subsidiary organ of the United Nations General Assembly. Thirty-four members are elected every 5 years for a term 5-year term. The main aim of the commission is to study the codification of international law and progressive development of international law. The international law commission studies and proposes to the General Assembly and to the UN member states what the new legal instruments should look like--treaty, resolution or simply report. Depending on the requirement of the international community an independent expert body proposes to the UN member how legal instruments will directly benefit the member states in future while promoting UN charter and aims. The ILC holds great importance in international law making, execution and interpretation. By studying the concerns of member states, we bring the needs, interests and concerns to the ILC, and to UNGA. ILC is one of the prestigious and significant conventions. The UNCLOS, which we call as the constitution of the ocean, was very much the work of the International Law Commission.

WION: What does India brings to the table here at the ILC

Patel: India brings a unique perspective as one of the most important and principal legal systems. This combination of legal system and oldest civilization, if we look at the entire south Asian sub-continent, it brings the convention, the treaties and norms that evolved in practices and all the countries in South Asia hold importance in the international law making. I must emphasise that while I was interacting with delegates in New York for the elections, our honourable PM's vision of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ (whole world is one family) has been actualized by people at the International Law Commission. And PM's vision of ‘Sabka Sath Sabka Vikas’ (everyone's support, everyone's development), the pandemic has made us realise the importance of this mantra. I will try to put forward these mantras given PM at the ILC. Until and unless, due importance is not given to regional voices like Africa, Asia in the international law making process, international law can hardly ever have the appeal or the utility to the international community as a whole. Therefore, I believe international law has never received such an unprecedented importance, and as a member of ILC, I am duty-bound to bring the regional voices into the functioning of the International Law Commission.&nbsp;

WION: What is the future of international law, particularly in new sectors like cryptocurrency?

Patel:&nbsp;Yes, in all these newly emerging sectors, like cryptocurrency, it has direct importance. We are talking of an investor and the state’s arbitration powers. Like the pandemic, we never expected a medical health issue to occupy such an importance in the international legal community. The same is the case with cyber security and data privacy, the responsibility of international organizations is immense. So, these are the new areas where we believe international law can have a significant influence, similar to the ones like the WHO. We will be working with sector-specific organizations to make sure that sectoral inputs get fine-tuned and translated into the development of international legal product and guide the member states as to how they should conduct themselves in resolving or framing issues.

India’s Bimal Patel, who has been elected to the UN’s International Law Commission, has called for regional voices from Africa and Asia in the international law-making process.

India’s Bimal Patel, who has been elected to the UN’s International Law Commission, has called for regional voices from Africa and Asia in the international law-making process. Professor Patel, who is also the vice-chancellor of Rashtriya Raksha University, Gujarat, and a member of the 21st Law Commission of India, has been elected for 5 years, starting from January 1, 2023. Speaking exclusively to WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Patel said, “Until and unless due importance to regional voices, be it, Africa, Asia, are not given in the international law making process, the laws can hardly have any appeal or the utility to the international community as a whole." He got overwhelming support during the election, with 163 votes in 192 members present and voting. India topped in the Asia Pacific group. International Law Commission, which holds its session in Geneva, has 34 member countries. The commission deals with the codification of international law. Laws like the Rome statute, and UNCLOS owe their origin to the proposals by the commission. WION: Your first reaction to you being elected to the international law commission? Patel: It is my great pleasure and honour. I thank our honourable PM (Modi), Home Minister (Amit Shah), External Affairs Minister (S Jaishankar) and the entire ministry for having faith in me and for their efforts in securing the highest votes for India for the term 2023-2027. It is a matter of great pride. I would like to live up to the expectations of the country with utmost sincerity, hard work and commitment. WION: You met the leadership in Delhi. What was their message to you? Patel: There is a huge revival and importance of international law. The international law is not just for development, but also for security, and in some cases important to the very survival of nation-states. So, international law has never received so much importance as of now especially in India, which is increasing its quality footprint in terms of brining a global voice, not just for India but also in similarly situated countries. To develop international law as a common language to resolve a number of problems and forge international cooperation and friendship, thereby the Ministry of External Affairs and the country is looking forward as to what international law has for the country and how international law can become a vehicle for cooperation and friendship. WION: Can you tell us a bit about the importance of the commission? Patel: International Law Commission (ILC) is a subsidiary organ of the United Nations General Assembly. Thirty-four members are elected every 5 years for a term 5-year term. The main aim of the commission is to study the codification of international law and progressive development of international law. The international law commission studies and proposes to the General Assembly and to the UN member states what the new legal instruments should look like--treaty, resolution or simply report. Depending on the requirement of the international community an independent expert body proposes to the UN member how legal instruments will directly benefit the member states in future while promoting UN charter and aims. The ILC holds great importance in international law making, execution and interpretation. By studying the concerns of member states, we bring the needs, interests and concerns to the ILC, and to UNGA. ILC is one of the prestigious and significant conventions. The UNCLOS, which we call as the constitution of the ocean, was very much the work of the International Law Commission. WION: What does India brings to the table here at the ILC Patel: India brings a unique perspective as one of the most important and principal legal systems. This combination of legal system and oldest civilization, if we look at the entire south Asian sub-continent, it brings the convention, the treaties and norms that evolved in practices and all the countries in South Asia hold importance in the international law making. I must emphasise that while I was interacting with delegates in New York for the elections, our honourable PM's vision of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ (whole world is one family) has been actualized by people at the International Law Commission. And PM's vision of ‘Sabka Sath Sabka Vikas’ (everyone's support, everyone's development), the pandemic has made us realise the importance of this mantra. I will try to put forward these mantras given PM at the ILC. Until and unless, due importance is not given to regional voices like Africa, Asia in the international law making process, international law can hardly ever have the appeal or the utility to the international community as a whole. Therefore, I believe international law has never received such an unprecedented importance, and as a member of ILC, I am duty-bound to bring the regional voices into the functioning of the International Law Commission. WION: What is the future of international law, particularly in new sectors like cryptocurrency? Patel: Yes, in all these newly emerging sectors, like cryptocurrency, it has direct importance. We are talking of an investor and the state’s arbitration powers. Like the pandemic, we never expected a medical health issue to occupy such an importance in the international legal community. The same is the case with cyber security and data privacy, the responsibility of international organizations is immense. So, these are the new areas where we believe international law can have a significant influence, similar to the ones like the WHO. We will be working with sector-specific organizations to make sure that sectoral inputs get fine-tuned and translated into the development of international legal product and guide the member states as to how they should conduct themselves in resolving or framing issues.

Exclusive: Need Asian, African voices to be heard at international law making process, says Prof Bimal Patel

What is the cost of keeping a secret? The UK government is paying 600,000 pounds (around $800,000) for the same purpose.

The secret: Diaries of Lord Mountbatten and his wife Lady Mountbatten, and some correspondence between the two.

The UK government is trying to bury these papers, especially from the Partition years,&nbsp;and paying that amount in a court battle against British author Andrew Lownie, out of fear that it could damage the reputation of the British royal family, and jeopardise the relationships between UK, Pakistan and India.

Mountbatten was the great-grandson of Queen Victoria. He was a royalist and like every proud royalist, he went on to serve the Royal Navy.

He commanded the Navy during World War II and held various positions in the British Raj. He also became the last viceroy of India.

It was&nbsp;in Delhi in 1922 that Mountbatten met a young woman, Edwina. They then decided to get married, which allegedly had many ups and downs.

It was claimed that the two had affair with other people.

The Mountbatten couple’s marriage was no secret by the way. So, what is that the British government is trying to hide?

One of Lady Mountbatten’s close friends was Jawaharlal Nehru, India’s first prime minister.

In one of her letters to Nehru, to which WION has access, it was written, “I hate to see you driving away this morning. You left me with a strange sense of peace. Perhaps, I have brought you the same?”

“Life is a dreary business,” replied Nehru.

The Mountbatten papers are a treasure trove. There is history and reportedly a lot of scandals.

Watch |&nbsp;Why is UK hiding the Mountbatten papers?

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So, a few years back, when Lownie asked for unrestricted access to these papers, the government refused to oblige him.

But Lownie didn’t take no for an answer. He cited British’s Freedom of Information law and forced the government to release the Mountbatten papers, at least 99.8 per cent of them, while refusing to&nbsp;disclose the rest of them.

The unreleased papers reportedly document the years from 1947 and 1948, including the diaries of Lord and Lady Mountbatten and some correspondence between the two.

This couple had the habit of putting unfiltered thoughts to paper. Both maintained diaries, both poured their hearts out in letters.

This is what Lord Mountbatten wrote to his wife in 1942:&nbsp;“Edwina darlingest, I feel terribly having had to desert you twice during the most trying week of life. I am afraid, as I once told you before, you shouldn’t have married a sailor. I am not particularly fond of saying nice things and I can’t hope to compete with most of your other admirers. But this I felt that I must say that I thought you were really grand and very sweet &amp; lovable.”

Mountbatten had overseen India’s partition. His diaries could reveal details that Britain is not comfortable sharing. They may have Mountbatten’s view of Nehru, Mohammed Ali Jinnah, Mahatma Gandhi and Sir Cyril Radcliffe, the man who drew the boundary between India and Pakistan.

Mountbatten, a very influential member of the Royal family, was a maternal uncle of Duke of Edinburgh Prince Philip.

He was like a father figure to the Prince of Wales, Prince Charles, the two were very close. Mountbatten is believed to have played a very big role in Prince Charles’ personal life, be it his affair with the then-girlfriend Camila Parker Bowles or his marriage with Diana.

The Royal Family lovingly called Mountbatten “Uncle Dicky”. They knew about his habit of maintaining a dairy. They too had their documents.

But who in the family would have thought that Uncle Dicky’s diary would once day start draining public coffers? So far, the UK govt has spent $800,000 in protecting them, trying to hide Mountbatten’s thoughts from the world.

Right now, a trial is underway in London which will determine whether all of the private diaries and letters of the should be released to the public despite concerns by the UK cabinet office.

What is the cost of keeping a secret? The UK government is paying 600,000 pounds (around $800,000) for the same purpose. The secret: Diaries of Lord Mountbatten and his wife Lady Mountbatten, and some correspondence between the two.

What is the cost of keeping a secret? The UK government is paying 600,000 pounds (around $800,000) for the same purpose. The secret: Diaries of Lord Mountbatten and his wife Lady Mountbatten, and some correspondence between the two. The UK government is trying to bury these papers, especially from the Partition years, and paying that amount in a court battle against British author Andrew Lownie, out of fear that it could damage the reputation of the British royal family, and jeopardise the relationships between UK, Pakistan and India. Mountbatten was the great-grandson of Queen Victoria. He was a royalist and like every proud royalist, he went on to serve the Royal Navy. He commanded the Navy during World War II and held various positions in the British Raj. He also became the last viceroy of India. It was in Delhi in 1922 that Mountbatten met a young woman, Edwina. They then decided to get married, which allegedly had many ups and downs. It was claimed that the two had affair with other people. The Mountbatten couple’s marriage was no secret by the way. So, what is that the British government is trying to hide? One of Lady Mountbatten’s close friends was Jawaharlal Nehru, India’s first prime minister. In one of her letters to Nehru, to which WION has access, it was written, “I hate to see you driving away this morning. You left me with a strange sense of peace. Perhaps, I have brought you the same?” “Life is a dreary business,” replied Nehru. The Mountbatten papers are a treasure trove. There is history and reportedly a lot of scandals. Watch | Why is UK hiding the Mountbatten papers? So, a few years back, when Lownie asked for unrestricted access to these papers, the government refused to oblige him. But Lownie didn’t take no for an answer. He cited British’s Freedom of Information law and forced the government to release the Mountbatten papers, at least 99.8 per cent of them, while refusing to disclose the rest of them. The unreleased papers reportedly document the years from 1947 and 1948, including the diaries of Lord and Lady Mountbatten and some correspondence between the two. This couple had the habit of putting unfiltered thoughts to paper. Both maintained diaries, both poured their hearts out in letters. This is what Lord Mountbatten wrote to his wife in 1942: “Edwina darlingest, I feel terribly having had to desert you twice during the most trying week of life. I am afraid, as I once told you before, you shouldn’t have married a sailor. I am not particularly fond of saying nice things and I can’t hope to compete with most of your other admirers. But this I felt that I must say that I thought you were really grand and very sweet & lovable.” Mountbatten had overseen India’s partition. His diaries could reveal details that Britain is not comfortable sharing. They may have Mountbatten’s view of Nehru, Mohammed Ali Jinnah, Mahatma Gandhi and Sir Cyril Radcliffe, the man who drew the boundary between India and Pakistan. Mountbatten, a very influential member of the Royal family, was a maternal uncle of Duke of Edinburgh Prince Philip. He was like a father figure to the Prince of Wales, Prince Charles, the two were very close. Mountbatten is believed to have played a very big role in Prince Charles’ personal life, be it his affair with the then-girlfriend Camila Parker Bowles or his marriage with Diana. The Royal Family lovingly called Mountbatten “Uncle Dicky”. They knew about his habit of maintaining a dairy. They too had their documents. But who in the family would have thought that Uncle Dicky’s diary would once day start draining public coffers? So far, the UK govt has spent $800,000 in protecting them, trying to hide Mountbatten’s thoughts from the world. Right now, a trial is underway in London which will determine whether all of the private diaries and letters of the should be released to the public despite concerns by the UK cabinet office.

UK is paying $800,000 to hide Mountbatten diaries, but why?

Terrorists enjoy free pass in Pakistan, which has an established history and policy of actively supporting them and holds the ignoble record of hosting the largest number of militants proscribed by the UN Security Council, India has said, slamming Islamabad at the UN Security Council.

"I'm constrained to take the floor once again to respond to some frivolous remarks made by the representative of Pakistan earlier today," Counsellor in India's Permanent Mission to the UN Kajal Bhat said in the UN Security Council on Tuesday.

"This is not the first time the representative of Pakistan has misused platforms provided by the UN to propagate false and malicious propaganda against my country and seeking in vain to divert the world's attention from the sad state of his country where terrorists enjoy a free pass while the lives of ordinary people, especially those belonging to the minority communities are turned upside down,"&nbsp;she said.

India's Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN Ambassador R Ravindra had already delivered the national statement at the UNSC open debate on 'Maintenance of International Peace and Security Through Preventive Diplomacy'.

Bhat took the floor to make a second statement in the Council after Pakistan's Ambassador to the UN Munir Akram raked the issue of Jammu and Kashmir in his remarks at the open debate.

"India desires normal neighbourly relations with all countries including Pakistan, and is committed to addressing outstanding issues, if any, bilaterally and peacefully in accordance with the Simla agreement and the Lahore declaration.

"However, any meaningful dialogue can be held only in an atmosphere free of terror, hostility and violence. The onus is on Pakistan to create such a conducive atmosphere. Till then India will continue to take firm and decisive steps to respond to cross-border terrorism,"&nbsp;she said.

Bhat, who hails from Jammu and Kashmir, said in her remarks that UN member states are aware that Pakistan has an "established history and policy"&nbsp;of harbouring, aiding and actively supporting terrorists.

"This is a country which has been globally recognised as one openly supporting, training, financing and arming terrorists as a matter of state policy. It holds the ignoble record of hosting the largest number of terrorists proscribed by the UN Security Council," she said.

Categorically stating India's position, Bhat said the entire Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh were, are and will always be an integral and inalienable part of India. "This includes the areas that are under the illegal occupation of Pakistan."

India called upon Pakistan to immediately vacate all areas under its illegal occupation.&nbsp;

Terrorists enjoy free pass in Pakistan, which has an established history and policy of actively supporting them and holds the ignoble record of hosting the largest number of militants proscribed by the UN Security Council, India has said, slamming Islamabad at the UN Security Council.

Terrorists enjoy free pass in Pakistan, which has an established history and policy of actively supporting them and holds the ignoble record of hosting the largest number of militants proscribed by the UN Security Council, India has said, slamming Islamabad at the UN Security Council. "I'm constrained to take the floor once again to respond to some frivolous remarks made by the representative of Pakistan earlier today," Counsellor in India's Permanent Mission to the UN Kajal Bhat said in the UN Security Council on Tuesday. "This is not the first time the representative of Pakistan has misused platforms provided by the UN to propagate false and malicious propaganda against my country and seeking in vain to divert the world's attention from the sad state of his country where terrorists enjoy a free pass while the lives of ordinary people, especially those belonging to the minority communities are turned upside down," she said. India's Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN Ambassador R Ravindra had already delivered the national statement at the UNSC open debate on 'Maintenance of International Peace and Security Through Preventive Diplomacy'. Bhat took the floor to make a second statement in the Council after Pakistan's Ambassador to the UN Munir Akram raked the issue of Jammu and Kashmir in his remarks at the open debate. "India desires normal neighbourly relations with all countries including Pakistan, and is committed to addressing outstanding issues, if any, bilaterally and peacefully in accordance with the Simla agreement and the Lahore declaration. "However, any meaningful dialogue can be held only in an atmosphere free of terror, hostility and violence. The onus is on Pakistan to create such a conducive atmosphere. Till then India will continue to take firm and decisive steps to respond to cross-border terrorism," she said. Bhat, who hails from Jammu and Kashmir, said in her remarks that UN member states are aware that Pakistan has an "established history and policy" of harbouring, aiding and actively supporting terrorists. "This is a country which has been globally recognised as one openly supporting, training, financing and arming terrorists as a matter of state policy. It holds the ignoble record of hosting the largest number of terrorists proscribed by the UN Security Council," she said. Categorically stating India's position, Bhat said the entire Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh were, are and will always be an integral and inalienable part of India. "This includes the areas that are under the illegal occupation of Pakistan." India called upon Pakistan to immediately vacate all areas under its illegal occupation.

Terrorists enjoy free pass: India slams Pak at UNSC after Islamabad's envoy rakes up Kashmir issue 

In a much-lauded gesture, Indian minister Bhagwat K. Karad rushed to the aid of a co-passenger who took sick during a flight on Monday.

This incident took place on IndiGo flight 6E171 from New Delhi to Mumbai. Approximately an hour after takeoff, one of the passengers, a patient of high blood pressure - identity unknown - complained of feelings of giddiness and uneasiness.

Karad immediately went to help his co-passenger when the airline crew appealed for any doctor aboard for help.

Taking advantage of the aircraft's med-kit, Karad, a surgeon, administered an injection to the patient and nipped the potential medical emergency in the bud.

Later, the recovered passenger appreciated the gesture of the MoS, who is a senior BJP leader from Aurangabad.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday praised the "great gesture" of the union minister of state for finance, who is a doctor by training.

Praising Karad's gesture the Indian PM tweeted "A doctor at heart, always! Great gesture by my colleague."

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A doctor at heart, always! 
 
Great gesture by my colleague <a href="https://twitter.com/DrBhagwatKarad?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DrBhagwatKarad</a>. <a href="https://t.co/VJIr5WajMH">https://t.co/VJIr5WajMH</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1460656827385794564?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 16, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/terrorists-enjoy-free-pass-india-slams-pak-at-unsc-after-islamabads-envoy-rakes-up-kashmir-issue-429923" hreflang="en">Terrorists enjoy free pass: India slams Pak at UNSC after Islamabad's envoy rakes up Kashmir issue&nbsp;</a>

The Indigo airline also offered its gratitude and sincere appreciation to the minister and said his voluntary support for helping out a fellow passenger is ever so inspiring.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-govt-to-reopen-kartarpur-corridor-tomorrow-says-union-home-minister-amit-shah-429779" hreflang="en">Indian govt to reopen Kartarpur corridor tomorrow, says Union Home Minister Amit Shah</a>

"Our heartfelt gratitude and sincere appreciation towards MoS for ministering to his duties non-stop! Your voluntary support for helping out a fellow passenger is ever so inspiring," the IndiGo airlines gratefully acknowledged the good doctor's help on Tuesday.

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Our heartfelt gratitude and sincere appreciation towards MoS for ministering to his duties non-stop! <a href="https://twitter.com/DrBhagwatKarad?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DrBhagwatKarad</a> your voluntary support for helping out a fellow passenger is ever so inspiring. <a href="https://t.co/I0tWjNqJXi">https://t.co/I0tWjNqJXi</a>
— IndiGo (@IndiGo6E) <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiGo6E/status/1460513131898179584?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 16, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Vinay Sahasrabuddhe, BJP Vice-President, and other party leaders also praised Dr Karad for his quick response to help a fellow air passenger, with social media adulation pouring in.

In a much-lauded gesture, Indian minister Bhagwat K. Karad rushed to the aid of a co-passenger who took sick during a flight on Monday. This incident took place on IndiGo flight 6E171 from New Delhi to Mumbai.

In a much-lauded gesture, Indian minister Bhagwat K. Karad rushed to the aid of a co-passenger who took sick during a flight on Monday. This incident took place on IndiGo flight 6E171 from New Delhi to Mumbai. Approximately an hour after takeoff, one of the passengers, a patient of high blood pressure - identity unknown - complained of feelings of giddiness and uneasiness. Karad immediately went to help his co-passenger when the airline crew appealed for any doctor aboard for help. Taking advantage of the aircraft's med-kit, Karad, a surgeon, administered an injection to the patient and nipped the potential medical emergency in the bud. Later, the recovered passenger appreciated the gesture of the MoS, who is a senior BJP leader from Aurangabad. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday praised the "great gesture" of the union minister of state for finance, who is a doctor by training. Praising Karad's gesture the Indian PM tweeted "A doctor at heart, always! Great gesture by my colleague." A doctor at heart, always! Great gesture by my colleague @DrBhagwatKarad. https://t.co/VJIr5WajMH — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 16, 2021 × Also read | Terrorists enjoy free pass: India slams Pak at UNSC after Islamabad's envoy rakes up Kashmir issue The Indigo airline also offered its gratitude and sincere appreciation to the minister and said his voluntary support for helping out a fellow passenger is ever so inspiring. Also read | Indian govt to reopen Kartarpur corridor tomorrow, says Union Home Minister Amit Shah "Our heartfelt gratitude and sincere appreciation towards MoS for ministering to his duties non-stop! Your voluntary support for helping out a fellow passenger is ever so inspiring," the IndiGo airlines gratefully acknowledged the good doctor's help on Tuesday. Our heartfelt gratitude and sincere appreciation towards MoS for ministering to his duties non-stop! @DrBhagwatKarad your voluntary support for helping out a fellow passenger is ever so inspiring. https://t.co/I0tWjNqJXi — IndiGo (@IndiGo6E) November 16, 2021 × Vinay Sahasrabuddhe, BJP Vice-President, and other party leaders also praised Dr Karad for his quick response to help a fellow air passenger, with social media adulation pouring in.

'Great gesture': Indian PM lauds minister Bhagwat Karad for helping co-passenger mid-flight

India&nbsp;is&nbsp;set&nbsp;to&nbsp;finalise a long-conceived proposal&nbsp;to&nbsp;procure 30 multi-mission armed&nbsp;Predator&nbsp;drones from the&nbsp;US&nbsp;for the three services at an estimated cost of over $3&nbsp;billion&nbsp;(around Rs 22,000 crore), official sources said on Tuesday.

The proposal&nbsp;to&nbsp;acquire the MQ-9B long-endurance&nbsp;drones, armed&nbsp;with&nbsp;air-to-ground missiles, is likely&nbsp;to&nbsp;be cleared&nbsp;by&nbsp;the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) in the next few weeks following which it will be placed before the PM-led Cabinet Committee on Security, they said.

The sources said various key aspects of the procurement including the cost component and weapons package have already been finalised and the mega-deal&nbsp;is&nbsp;set&nbsp;to&nbsp;be&nbsp;sealed&nbsp;with&nbsp;the&nbsp;US&nbsp;by&nbsp;the&nbsp;current&nbsp;fiscal.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/before-inaugurating-a-highway-indias-pm-modi-lands-on-it-in-air-forces-c-130j-super-hercules-plane-429722" hreflang="en">Indian PM Modi lands on highway in an Indian Air Force plane</a>

Vice Chief of&nbsp;India&nbsp;Navy Vice Admiral said the proposal will be placed before the DAC in a "short while".

"The whole effort of the procurement process is that we take a very balanced decision and therefore inputs of all stakeholders are taken. The process is on and we have progressed quite a bit on this process. This will move&nbsp;to&nbsp;DAC in a short while," he&nbsp;told reporters at an event.

The procurement proposal has been moved&nbsp;by&nbsp;the&nbsp;Indian Navy and all three services are likely&nbsp;to&nbsp;get 10&nbsp;drones each.

The remotely piloted&nbsp;drones, manufactured&nbsp;by&nbsp;US&nbsp;defence major General Atomics, are capable of remaining airborne for around 35 hours and can be deployed on a range of missions including surveillance, reconnaissance, intelligence gathering and destroying enemy targets.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/why-the-russian-s-400-missile-defence-deal-matters-to-india-424515" hreflang="en">Why the Russian S-400 missile defence deal matters to India</a>

The medium-altitude long-endurance (MALE)&nbsp;Predator-B&nbsp;drone&nbsp;is the first hunter-killer UAV designed for long-endurance and high-altitude surveillance.

Indian armed forces have been focusing on procuring unmanned platforms including armed&nbsp;drones following the eastern Ladakh standoff&nbsp;with&nbsp;China and a&nbsp;drone&nbsp;strike on the Jammu airbase.

Explosives-laden&nbsp;drones were&nbsp;used&nbsp;to&nbsp;carry out the attack on the Jammu Air Force station in June in the first such instance of suspected Pakistan-based terrorists deploying unmanned aerial vehicles&nbsp;to&nbsp;strike at vital military installations in&nbsp;India.

In 2019, the&nbsp;US&nbsp;approved the sale of armed&nbsp;drones&nbsp;to&nbsp;India&nbsp;and even offered integrated air and missile defence systems.

The&nbsp;Indian Navy has been strongly pushing for the procurement&nbsp;to&nbsp;boost its overall surveillance over the&nbsp;Indian Ocean, a region that has witnessed increasing forays&nbsp;by&nbsp;Chinese ships and submarines in the last few years.

Last year, the&nbsp;Indian Navy received two&nbsp;Predator&nbsp;drones on lease from the&nbsp;US, primarily for surveillance over the&nbsp;Indian Ocean.

The two non-weaponised MQ-9B&nbsp;drones were leased for one year&nbsp;with&nbsp;the option of extending the period&nbsp;by&nbsp;another year.

In February last year,&nbsp;India&nbsp;sealed a $2.6&nbsp;billion&nbsp;deal&nbsp;with&nbsp;the&nbsp;US&nbsp;for procurement of 24 MH-60 Romeo helicopters from American aerospace major Lockheed Martin for the&nbsp;Indian Navy. The delivery of the helicopters has already begun.

India is set to finalise a long-conceived proposal to procure 30 multi-mission armed Predator drones from the US for the three services at an estimated cost of over $3 billion (around Rs 22,000 crore), official sources said on Tuesday.

India is set to finalise a long-conceived proposal to procure 30 multi-mission armed Predator drones from the US for the three services at an estimated cost of over $3 billion (around Rs 22,000 crore), official sources said on Tuesday. The proposal to acquire the MQ-9B long-endurance drones, armed with air-to-ground missiles, is likely to be cleared by the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) in the next few weeks following which it will be placed before the PM-led Cabinet Committee on Security, they said. The sources said various key aspects of the procurement including the cost component and weapons package have already been finalised and the mega-deal is set to be sealed with the US by the current fiscal. Also read | Indian PM Modi lands on highway in an Indian Air Force plane Vice Chief of India Navy Vice Admiral said the proposal will be placed before the DAC in a "short while". "The whole effort of the procurement process is that we take a very balanced decision and therefore inputs of all stakeholders are taken. The process is on and we have progressed quite a bit on this process. This will move to DAC in a short while," he told reporters at an event. The procurement proposal has been moved by the Indian Navy and all three services are likely to get 10 drones each. The remotely piloted drones, manufactured by US defence major General Atomics, are capable of remaining airborne for around 35 hours and can be deployed on a range of missions including surveillance, reconnaissance, intelligence gathering and destroying enemy targets. Also read | Why the Russian S-400 missile defence deal matters to India The medium-altitude long-endurance (MALE) Predator-B drone is the first hunter-killer UAV designed for long-endurance and high-altitude surveillance. Indian armed forces have been focusing on procuring unmanned platforms including armed drones following the eastern Ladakh standoff with China and a drone strike on the Jammu airbase. Explosives-laden drones were used to carry out the attack on the Jammu Air Force station in June in the first such instance of suspected Pakistan-based terrorists deploying unmanned aerial vehicles to strike at vital military installations in India. In 2019, the US approved the sale of armed drones to India and even offered integrated air and missile defence systems. The Indian Navy has been strongly pushing for the procurement to boost its overall surveillance over the Indian Ocean, a region that has witnessed increasing forays by Chinese ships and submarines in the last few years. Last year, the Indian Navy received two Predator drones on lease from the US, primarily for surveillance over the Indian Ocean. The two non-weaponised MQ-9B drones were leased for one year with the option of extending the period by another year. In February last year, India sealed a $2.6 billion deal with the US for procurement of 24 MH-60 Romeo helicopters from American aerospace major Lockheed Martin for the Indian Navy. The delivery of the helicopters has already begun.

India set to seal $3 billion Predator drone deal with US by current fiscal

Indian Air Force's (IAF) Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas showed its superior capabilities at Dubai Airshow on Tuesday. Tejas' superior flying skills were on display at an event that has attracted top manufacturers, civilian and military, from around the world.

IAF's Group Captain Manish Tolani spoke exclusively with WION's Business Editor Sumit Chaturvedi about the fighter aircraft which he says would be a 'mainstay' in India's aerial combat arsenal.

"It's a pleasure to fly this aircraft," said Tolani, adding that Tejas was 'definitely' at the top when pitted against its contemporaries in the category.

"It is one of the best platforms in its category," he added.

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Indian Air Force's <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Tejas?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Tejas</a> enthralls spectators as the Light Combat Aircraft showcases its 'superior flying skills' at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DubaiAirShow?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DubaiAirShow</a>. WION's <a href="https://twitter.com/joinsumit?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@joinsumit</a> speaks exclusively with IAF's Group Captain Manish Tolani.<a href="https://twitter.com/eriknjoka?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@eriknjoka</a> gets you this report 
 
Watch more: <a href="https://t.co/AXC5qRcEPB">https://t.co/AXC5qRcEPB</a> <a href="https://t.co/QP5yqiQRob">pic.twitter.com/QP5yqiQRob</a>
— WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1460571847397761024?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 16, 2021</a></blockquote>
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When asked about qualities that make Tejas a state-of-the-art fighting machine, Tolani mentioned four-channel digital flyby wire. He said that the cockpit made fully of glass makes handling of the plane more effective. Tejas is capable of firing air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles.

"It will be a mainstay of Indian Air Force as it is evolving day-by-day," said Tolani drawing attention to significant improvements that have been made in the fighter plane in recent years.

"In years to come this (aircraft) will definitely be a game-changer"

Dubai Airshow has become a platform for not only the manufacturers to display their wares, but also for air forces around the world to show their might.

See Pics | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-missiles-to-aircraft-dubai-airshow-has-it-all-429352#five-day-exhibit-429351">From missiles to aircraft, Dubai Airshow has it all</a>

The Russian air force is displaying prototype of Su-75 'Checkmate', its new fifth-generation warplane.

Pitched as a cost-efficient fighter jet, the Checkmate can fly at speeds of Mach 1.8 and a range of 2,800-2,900 kilometres. &nbsp;

Dubai Airshow kicked off on November 14 and will conclude on November 18.

Indian Air Force's (IAF) Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas showed its superior capabilities at Dubai Airshow on Tuesday. Tejas' superior flying skills were on display at an event that has attracted top manufacturers, civilian and military, from around the world.

Indian Air Force's (IAF) Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas showed its superior capabilities at Dubai Airshow on Tuesday. Tejas' superior flying skills were on display at an event that has attracted top manufacturers, civilian and military, from around the world. IAF's Group Captain Manish Tolani spoke exclusively with WION's Business Editor Sumit Chaturvedi about the fighter aircraft which he says would be a 'mainstay' in India's aerial combat arsenal. "It's a pleasure to fly this aircraft," said Tolani, adding that Tejas was 'definitely' at the top when pitted against its contemporaries in the category. "It is one of the best platforms in its category," he added. Indian Air Force's #Tejas enthralls spectators as the Light Combat Aircraft showcases its 'superior flying skills' at #DubaiAirShow. WION's @joinsumit speaks exclusively with IAF's Group Captain Manish Tolani.@eriknjoka gets you this report Watch more: https://t.co/AXC5qRcEPB pic.twitter.com/QP5yqiQRob — WION (@WIONews) November 16, 2021 × When asked about qualities that make Tejas a state-of-the-art fighting machine, Tolani mentioned four-channel digital flyby wire. He said that the cockpit made fully of glass makes handling of the plane more effective. Tejas is capable of firing air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles. "It will be a mainstay of Indian Air Force as it is evolving day-by-day," said Tolani drawing attention to significant improvements that have been made in the fighter plane in recent years. "In years to come this (aircraft) will definitely be a game-changer" Dubai Airshow has become a platform for not only the manufacturers to display their wares, but also for air forces around the world to show their might. See Pics | From missiles to aircraft, Dubai Airshow has it all The Russian air force is displaying prototype of Su-75 'Checkmate', its new fifth-generation warplane. Pitched as a cost-efficient fighter jet, the Checkmate can fly at speeds of Mach 1.8 and a range of 2,800-2,900 kilometres. Dubai Airshow kicked off on November 14 and will conclude on November 18.

Tejas fighter plane will be a game-changer, says IAF pilot at Dubai Airshow

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi landed on a highway airstrip in an Indian Air Force’s C-130J Super Hercules plane on Tuesday to inaugurate the 341-kilometre-long Purvanchal Expressway in northern Uttar Pradesh state.

The inauguration comes months ahead of the high-stakes assembly elections that is scheduled to take place in India's most populous Uttar Pradesh state in&nbsp;2022

The 3.2 kilometre-long airstrip has been constructed on the expressway to facilitate the emergency landing of fighter aircraft.

The 341-km expressway aims to reduce travel time state capital Lucknow with Ghazipur from 6 hours to 3.5 hours. It has been constructed at an estimated cost of Rs 22,500 crore.

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Trial landing on Purvanchal Expressway. <a href="https://t.co/d2Zsup92jj">pic.twitter.com/d2Zsup92jj</a>
— Office Of Mrityunjay Kumar (@MrityunjayOffic) <a href="https://twitter.com/MrityunjayOffic/status/1459832420346195971?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 14, 2021</a></blockquote>
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From the airstrip venue, the prime minister will witness an air show by different aircraft.

The over 340-km-long expressway will have seven major bridges, seven railway overbridges, 114 minor bridges, and 271 underpasses.

An official statement said that the six-lane expressway can be expanded to eight lanes in future.

The inauguration event will also see Su-30 MKIs, Jaguars and Mirage 2000 fighter jets making multiple take-offs and landings at the emergency airstrip.

Awanish K Awasthi, Additional Chief Secretary in the UP govt's home department, told news agency ANI that the foundation laying of the Purvanchal Expressway was done in July 2018 and within 36 months the work had been completed despite COVID-19 outbreak, and without time or cost overrun.

<h2>About C-130J Super Hercules</h2>

C-130J, also known as the Super Hercules, is a military aircraft that is meant for special operations and has the capability to land at short and rough airstrips.

The C-130J Super Hercules is the most advanced C-130 ever designed, built, flown and maintained, with a truly integrated digital core that offers: -Dual HUDs for increased situational awareness, Block 7.0/8.1 software, installed in-line during production, Automated maintenance fault reporting, Integrated defensive suite, 250 knot ramp/door.

C-130J Super Hercules aircraft is designed and manufactured by American defence company Lockheed Martin. It has a landing distance of 914 metres and a range of 4,000 kilometres.&nbsp;

The C-130J&nbsp;aircraft conducted its first flight in 1996 and completed a million flight hours worldwide by 2013.&nbsp;

As of September 2021, the C-130J Super Hercules aircraft has clocked in over 2 million flight hours.

Indian Air Force (IAF) currently operates 12 C-130J Super Hercules aircraft, the first of which was ordered in 2007. They&nbsp;carried out the highest landing of a C-130J in 2013, which is 34.37-metre-long with a wingspan of 40.41 metres.

The 2013 highest landing by the Indian Air Force took place at the Daulat Beg Oldi airstrip in Ladakh at the height of 16,614 ft.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi landed on a highway airstrip in an Indian Air Force’s C-130J Super Hercules plane on Tuesday to inaugurate the 341-kilometre-long Purvanchal Expressway in northern Uttar Pradesh state.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi landed on a highway airstrip in an Indian Air Force’s C-130J Super Hercules plane on Tuesday to inaugurate the 341-kilometre-long Purvanchal Expressway in northern Uttar Pradesh state. The inauguration comes months ahead of the high-stakes assembly elections that is scheduled to take place in India's most populous Uttar Pradesh state in 2022 The 3.2 kilometre-long airstrip has been constructed on the expressway to facilitate the emergency landing of fighter aircraft. The 341-km expressway aims to reduce travel time state capital Lucknow with Ghazipur from 6 hours to 3.5 hours. It has been constructed at an estimated cost of Rs 22,500 crore. Trial landing on Purvanchal Expressway. pic.twitter.com/d2Zsup92jj — Office Of Mrityunjay Kumar (@MrityunjayOffic) November 14, 2021 × From the airstrip venue, the prime minister will witness an air show by different aircraft. The over 340-km-long expressway will have seven major bridges, seven railway overbridges, 114 minor bridges, and 271 underpasses. An official statement said that the six-lane expressway can be expanded to eight lanes in future. The inauguration event will also see Su-30 MKIs, Jaguars and Mirage 2000 fighter jets making multiple take-offs and landings at the emergency airstrip. Awanish K Awasthi, Additional Chief Secretary in the UP govt's home department, told news agency ANI that the foundation laying of the Purvanchal Expressway was done in July 2018 and within 36 months the work had been completed despite COVID-19 outbreak, and without time or cost overrun. About C-130J Super Hercules C-130J, also known as the Super Hercules, is a military aircraft that is meant for special operations and has the capability to land at short and rough airstrips. The C-130J Super Hercules is the most advanced C-130 ever designed, built, flown and maintained, with a truly integrated digital core that offers: -Dual HUDs for increased situational awareness, Block 7.0/8.1 software, installed in-line during production, Automated maintenance fault reporting, Integrated defensive suite, 250 knot ramp/door. C-130J Super Hercules aircraft is designed and manufactured by American defence company Lockheed Martin. It has a landing distance of 914 metres and a range of 4,000 kilometres. The C-130J aircraft conducted its first flight in 1996 and completed a million flight hours worldwide by 2013. As of September 2021, the C-130J Super Hercules aircraft has clocked in over 2 million flight hours. Indian Air Force (IAF) currently operates 12 C-130J Super Hercules aircraft, the first of which was ordered in 2007. They carried out the highest landing of a C-130J in 2013, which is 34.37-metre-long with a wingspan of 40.41 metres. The 2013 highest landing by the Indian Air Force took place at the Daulat Beg Oldi airstrip in Ladakh at the height of 16,614 ft. (With inputs from agencies)

Before inaugurating a highway, India’s PM Modi lands on it in Air Force’s C-130J Super Hercules plane

With Prakash Utsav of Guru Nanak Dev in mind, the Indian government has finally decided to reopen the Kartarpur Sahib corridor from Wednesday, Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced on Tuesday. &nbsp;

The Kartarpur corridor links Pakistan’s Gurdwara Darbar Sahib, which is the final resting place of Guru Nanak Dev to Dera Baba Nanak shrine in India’s Gurdaspur district of Punjab state. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-pm-modi-arrives-in-air-forces-c-130j-super-hercules-plane-to-inaugurate-highway-429722" hreflang="en">India’s PM Modi arrives in Air Force’s C-130J Super Hercules plane to inaugurate highway</a>

The decision reflects the Indian government's immense reverence for Guru Nanak Dev and the Sikh community, said Shah. &nbsp;

"In a major decision, that will benefit large numbers of Sikh pilgrims, PM @Narendramodi govt has decided to re-open the Kartarpur Sahib Corridor from tomorrow, November 17. This decision reflects the immense reverence of Modi government towards Guru Nanak Dev and our Sikh community," Shah said in a tweet. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-allows-quarantine-free-entry-of-vaccinated-foreign-nationals-from-99-countries-429678" hreflang="en">India allows quarantine-free entry of vaccinated foreign nationals from 99 countries</a>

The nation is all set to celebrate the Prakash Utsav of Sikhism founder Guru Nanak Dev on November 19, the home minister said. &nbsp;

The leader was also confident that this move will further "boost the joy and happiness across the country". &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;&nbsp;

With Prakash Utsav of Guru Nanak Dev in mind, the Indian government has finally decided to reopen the Kartarpur Sahib corridor from Wednesday, Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced on Tuesday.

With Prakash Utsav of Guru Nanak Dev in mind, the Indian government has finally decided to reopen the Kartarpur Sahib corridor from Wednesday, Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced on Tuesday. The Kartarpur corridor links Pakistan’s Gurdwara Darbar Sahib, which is the final resting place of Guru Nanak Dev to Dera Baba Nanak shrine in India’s Gurdaspur district of Punjab state. Also Read: India’s PM Modi arrives in Air Force’s C-130J Super Hercules plane to inaugurate highway The decision reflects the Indian government's immense reverence for Guru Nanak Dev and the Sikh community, said Shah. "In a major decision, that will benefit large numbers of Sikh pilgrims, PM @Narendramodi govt has decided to re-open the Kartarpur Sahib Corridor from tomorrow, November 17. This decision reflects the immense reverence of Modi government towards Guru Nanak Dev and our Sikh community," Shah said in a tweet. Also Read: India allows quarantine-free entry of vaccinated foreign nationals from 99 countries The nation is all set to celebrate the Prakash Utsav of Sikhism founder Guru Nanak Dev on November 19, the home minister said. The leader was also confident that this move will further "boost the joy and happiness across the country". (With inputs from agencies)

Indian govt to reopen Kartarpur corridor tomorrow, says Union Home Minister Amit Shah

Prime Minister Narendra Modi landed in IAF's C-130J Super Hercules aircraft to inaugurate 341-kilometer long Purvanchal Expressway in Uttar Pradesh today.

PM Narendra Modi to inaugurate Purvanchal Expressway in Uttar Pradesh

India is considering opening up the Kartarpur Corridor ahead of the birth anniversary of the founder of Sikhism Guru Nanak Dev Ji.

Indian Government urged to open Kartarpur Corridor

The Indian Air Force’s (IAF) Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas and Sarang Helicopter Display Teams showcased "superior flying skills" at the Dubai Air Show on Sunday.

Dubai Air Show: Tejas showcases 'superior flying skills'

Fully vaccinated foreign travellers from 99 countries, who have a mutual recognition pact of vaccine certificates with India, have been permitted to enter without undergoing quarantine, according to revised guidelines issued by the Indian government.

However, they would be required to follow certain mandatory procedures before arriving in India.

Before their scheduled arrival, travellers from these listed countries, including the US, the UK, France, Germany, Australia, the Netherlands and Russia, are required submit a self-declaration form on the Air Suvidha portal (newdelhiairport.in).

The passengers also have to upload a negative COVID-19 RT-PCR report, 72 hours prior to their journey, according to the revised Guidelines for International Arrivals released by the Union health ministry on November 11.

Each passenger shall also submit a declaration with respect to the authenticity of the report and will be liable for criminal prosecution, if found otherwise.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/what-happens-when-covid-19-meets-toxic-air-india-is-about-to-find-out-335584">What happens when COVID-19 meets toxic air? India is about to find out</a>

India shares an agreement with some of the 99 nations on ‘mutual recognition of COVID-19 vaccination certificates’ of nationally recognised or the WHO recognised vaccines.

Some of the countries, which features in ‘Category A’ list, do not have a mutual recognition of Covid-19 vaccine agreement with India, but they permit quarantine-free entry in their land to fully vaccinated Indian nationals, the guidelines read.

Some of the countries currently considered to be "at risk" by India, which means the travellers from where would need to follow additional measures on arrival including testing, are the United Kingdom, South Africa, Brazil, Bangladesh, Botswana, China, Mauritius, New Zealand, Zimbabwe and Singapore.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-might-be-entering-endemic-stage-of-covid-19-who-chief-scientist-swaminathan-408296">&nbsp;</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-might-be-entering-endemic-stage-of-covid-19-who-chief-scientist-swaminathan-408296">India might be entering endemic stage of COVID-19: WHO chief scientist Swaminathan</a>

"As India opened its doors to fully-vaccinated international tourists from all over the world beginning Monday, India tourism Mumbai accorded a warm welcome to the first set of international tourists who landed at Mumbai International Airport by Air France flight AF218," the Union Ministry of Tourism said in a tweet.

According to the guidelines, if fully-vaccinated travellers are coming from a country with which India has reciprocal arrangements for mutual acceptance of WHO-approved COVID-19 vaccines, they shall be allowed to leave the airport and need not undergo home quarantine.

They shall self-monitor their health for 14 days post arrival.

(WIth inputs from agencies)

Fully vaccinated foreign travellers from 99 countries, who have a mutual recognition pact of vaccine certificates with India, have been permitted to enter without undergoing quarantine, according to revised guidelines issued by the Indian government.

Fully vaccinated foreign travellers from 99 countries, who have a mutual recognition pact of vaccine certificates with India, have been permitted to enter without undergoing quarantine, according to revised guidelines issued by the Indian government. However, they would be required to follow certain mandatory procedures before arriving in India. Before their scheduled arrival, travellers from these listed countries, including the US, the UK, France, Germany, Australia, the Netherlands and Russia, are required submit a self-declaration form on the Air Suvidha portal (newdelhiairport.in). The passengers also have to upload a negative COVID-19 RT-PCR report, 72 hours prior to their journey, according to the revised Guidelines for International Arrivals released by the Union health ministry on November 11. Each passenger shall also submit a declaration with respect to the authenticity of the report and will be liable for criminal prosecution, if found otherwise. Also read | What happens when COVID-19 meets toxic air? India is about to find out India shares an agreement with some of the 99 nations on ‘mutual recognition of COVID-19 vaccination certificates’ of nationally recognised or the WHO recognised vaccines. Some of the countries, which features in ‘Category A’ list, do not have a mutual recognition of Covid-19 vaccine agreement with India, but they permit quarantine-free entry in their land to fully vaccinated Indian nationals, the guidelines read. Some of the countries currently considered to be "at risk" by India, which means the travellers from where would need to follow additional measures on arrival including testing, are the United Kingdom, South Africa, Brazil, Bangladesh, Botswana, China, Mauritius, New Zealand, Zimbabwe and Singapore. Also read | India might be entering endemic stage of COVID-19: WHO chief scientist Swaminathan "As India opened its doors to fully-vaccinated international tourists from all over the world beginning Monday, India tourism Mumbai accorded a warm welcome to the first set of international tourists who landed at Mumbai International Airport by Air France flight AF218," the Union Ministry of Tourism said in a tweet. According to the guidelines, if fully-vaccinated travellers are coming from a country with which India has reciprocal arrangements for mutual acceptance of WHO-approved COVID-19 vaccines, they shall be allowed to leave the airport and need not undergo home quarantine. They shall self-monitor their health for 14 days post arrival. (WIth inputs from agencies)

India allows quarantine-free entry of vaccinated foreign nationals from 99 countries

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