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India is&nbsp;considering reopening the Kartarpur corridor ahead of Guru Nanak Dev Ji Gurpurab on November 19.

Gurupurab is is the birth anniversary of the first Sikh Guru and founder of Sikhism - Guru Nanak. The corridor was suspended in March last year when India had shut its border as the COVID-19&nbsp;crisis spread across the world.&nbsp;

Sources said, "India is considering opening&nbsp;the Kartarpur corridor". The corridor provides rare visa-free travel from India to Pakistan and vice versa for pilgrims to pray at the holy Gurudwara Darbar Sahib.

The Gurudwara is considered to be one of the holiest places in Sikhism. It is&nbsp;believed to be the final resting place of Guru Nanak. The 4.7 km long corridor was opened with much fanfare on November 9, 2019 on Gurpurab.&nbsp;

The development comes even as India is slowly opening up for international travellers as the COVID-19&nbsp;crisis abates and vaccination increases. On Monday, India opened for foreign tourists after twenty&nbsp;months.​

Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) Delhi had called on PM Modi for the opening of the corridor.&nbsp;Party chief Paramjit Singh Sarna said, "we have a very strong feeling that the central government will generously accept our demands for the reopening of the Kartarpur Sahib passage".

India is considering reopening the Kartarpur corridor ahead of Guru Nanak Dev Ji Gurpurab on November 19. Gurupurab is is the birth anniversary of the first Sikh Guru and founder of Sikhism - Guru Nanak.

India is considering reopening the Kartarpur corridor ahead of Guru Nanak Dev Ji Gurpurab on November 19. Gurupurab is is the birth anniversary of the first Sikh Guru and founder of Sikhism - Guru Nanak. The corridor was suspended in March last year when India had shut its border as the COVID-19 crisis spread across the world. Sources said, "India is considering opening the Kartarpur corridor". The corridor provides rare visa-free travel from India to Pakistan and vice versa for pilgrims to pray at the holy Gurudwara Darbar Sahib. The Gurudwara is considered to be one of the holiest places in Sikhism. It is believed to be the final resting place of Guru Nanak. The 4.7 km long corridor was opened with much fanfare on November 9, 2019 on Gurpurab. The development comes even as India is slowly opening up for international travellers as the COVID-19 crisis abates and vaccination increases. On Monday, India opened for foreign tourists after twenty months. Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) Delhi had called on PM Modi for the opening of the corridor. Party chief Paramjit Singh Sarna said, "we have a very strong feeling that the central government will generously accept our demands for the reopening of the Kartarpur Sahib passage".

India considering reopening Kartarpur corridor

Pakistan on Monday handed over 20 Indian fishermen, who completed their four-year prison terms for allegedly fishing in Pakistani waters, to India at the Wagah border, according to officials.

The batch of 20 Indian fishermen were released from the district prison and correctional facility.&nbsp;The Edhi Foundation received them in Lahore and provided them with food.

They were taken to the Wagah border where they got through immigration process and COVID-19 related tests. They crossed into their homeland in the evening, Edhi Foundation official said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-summons-senior-pak-diplomat-lodges-protest-over-fishermans-killing-427943">Also Read:&nbsp;India summons Pakistan's diplomat over fisherman's killing</a>

The Edhi Trust Foundation, a non-profit social welfare organisation, made arrangements to transport the fishermen to the Wagah border from where they were handed over to the Indian authorities.

The Indian nationals were handed over to the Border Security Force(BSF) by the Pakistan Rangers, according to officials.

Most of the fishermen were imprisoned after crossing over to the Pakistani waters four to five years ago.

The&nbsp;twenty&nbsp;Indian fishermen were arrested by the Pakistan Maritime Security Force (PMSF) and handed over to the dock police for allegedly fishing illegally in Pakistani waters.

One Arjun Babu said that he had been growing his hair from the time of his arrest five years ago.

"It was for the fulfilment of my wish to be released soon. It was a wish. My hair grew so long and I believe, due to my wish, all 20 are being released today,"&nbsp;he told reporters after his release.

He said that he would get a haircut as soon as he reaches his home but not immediately just to be safe.

"I am glad to be leaving for home now but was sad about leaving behind several other Indian fishermen in jail for also having crossed over to Pakistan unknowingly.&nbsp;Please release them also so that they can be with their families,"&nbsp;another fisherman Ravendra said.

An officer said that 588 more Indian nationals, the majority of them fishermen, are still languishing in Landhi jail.

The Pakistan government had also released 20 Indian fishermen early last year and another batch of 100 Indian fishermen in April 2019 as a goodwill gesture. 
&nbsp;

Pakistan on Monday handed over 20 Indian fishermen, who completed their four-year prison terms for allegedly fishing in Pakistani waters, to India at the Wagah border, according to officials.

Pakistan on Monday handed over 20 Indian fishermen, who completed their four-year prison terms for allegedly fishing in Pakistani waters, to India at the Wagah border, according to officials. The batch of 20 Indian fishermen were released from the district prison and correctional facility. The Edhi Foundation received them in Lahore and provided them with food. They were taken to the Wagah border where they got through immigration process and COVID-19 related tests. They crossed into their homeland in the evening, Edhi Foundation official said. Also Read: India summons Pakistan's diplomat over fisherman's killing The Edhi Trust Foundation, a non-profit social welfare organisation, made arrangements to transport the fishermen to the Wagah border from where they were handed over to the Indian authorities. The Indian nationals were handed over to the Border Security Force(BSF) by the Pakistan Rangers, according to officials. Most of the fishermen were imprisoned after crossing over to the Pakistani waters four to five years ago. The twenty Indian fishermen were arrested by the Pakistan Maritime Security Force (PMSF) and handed over to the dock police for allegedly fishing illegally in Pakistani waters. One Arjun Babu said that he had been growing his hair from the time of his arrest five years ago. "It was for the fulfilment of my wish to be released soon. It was a wish. My hair grew so long and I believe, due to my wish, all 20 are being released today," he told reporters after his release. He said that he would get a haircut as soon as he reaches his home but not immediately just to be safe. "I am glad to be leaving for home now but was sad about leaving behind several other Indian fishermen in jail for also having crossed over to Pakistan unknowingly. Please release them also so that they can be with their families," another fisherman Ravendra said. An officer said that 588 more Indian nationals, the majority of them fishermen, are still languishing in Landhi jail. The Pakistan government had also released 20 Indian fishermen early last year and another batch of 100 Indian fishermen in April 2019 as a goodwill gesture.

Pakistan hands over 20 Indian fishermen to India

The Kashmir Valley witnesses a magical change in colours during the autumn season. The fall splashes the Valley with red colour. The majestic chinar trees look as if they have been decorated with layers of colours&nbsp;&nbsp;and to witness these beautiful visuals&nbsp;thousands of tourists are visiting the Valley.&nbsp;

The red leaves cover the landscape of Kashmir Valley like a carpet. The Nishat Garden, Naseem Bagh&nbsp;and Chinar Bagh are full of tourists taking pictures in these breathtakingly beautiful locations. The scenes these tourists have only seen in Bollywood movies.

''We are feeling as if we are in heaven, If there is paradise on earth it's Kashmir. People who want to experience paradise should visit. The gardens here are Gulmarg and Pahalgam. There is a different beauty to Autumn, we have only seen this in movies. The red coloured trees are looking beautiful. '' said Damodar Agarwal, a tourist.&nbsp;

Some of the tourists visiting the Valley have only read about the beautiful autumn season but have never seen it since&nbsp;the rest of India does not have four&nbsp;seasons like the Kashmir Valley.&nbsp;

<img alt="Kashmir Valley" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e4700645-5dfa-4529-b147-fd39a8548cca" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Kashmirr1.jpg" />

''It's very beautiful. We don't get to see these seasonal changes where we live and this looks like a movie. It looks like a set. We had studied about autumn but now we are witnessing it. It's beautiful. We had missed a lot in life but finally, we are here. '' said Maulina Agarwal, tourist.&nbsp;

The government has also announced special discounts and offers for the tourists coming to the Valley during the autumn season.

<img alt="Kashmir Valley" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ca3b7667-f240-4a4b-8043-b026345f7b64" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Fire11.jpg" />&nbsp;

''We have visited thrice before this, it is our fourth trip but in autumn we have come for the first time and of course, in autumn it's very cold but bearable but a beautiful experience. It's really a paradise,'' said Satish Modi, Tourist.&nbsp;

There are very few places across the world which are so&nbsp;exotic in every season of the year and Kashmir is one of them.

The Kashmir Valley witnesses a magical change in colours during the autumn season. The fall splashes the Valley with red colour. The majestic chinar trees look as if they have been decorated with layers of colours and to witness these beautiful visuals thousands of tourists are visiting the Valley.

The Kashmir Valley witnesses a magical change in colours during the autumn season. The fall splashes the Valley with red colour. The majestic chinar trees look as if they have been decorated with layers of colours and to witness these beautiful visuals thousands of tourists are visiting the Valley. The red leaves cover the landscape of Kashmir Valley like a carpet. The Nishat Garden, Naseem Bagh and Chinar Bagh are full of tourists taking pictures in these breathtakingly beautiful locations. The scenes these tourists have only seen in Bollywood movies. ''We are feeling as if we are in heaven, If there is paradise on earth it's Kashmir. People who want to experience paradise should visit. The gardens here are Gulmarg and Pahalgam. There is a different beauty to Autumn, we have only seen this in movies. The red coloured trees are looking beautiful. '' said Damodar Agarwal, a tourist. Some of the tourists visiting the Valley have only read about the beautiful autumn season but have never seen it since the rest of India does not have four seasons like the Kashmir Valley. ''It's very beautiful. We don't get to see these seasonal changes where we live and this looks like a movie. It looks like a set. We had studied about autumn but now we are witnessing it. It's beautiful. We had missed a lot in life but finally, we are here. '' said Maulina Agarwal, tourist. The government has also announced special discounts and offers for the tourists coming to the Valley during the autumn season. ''We have visited thrice before this, it is our fourth trip but in autumn we have come for the first time and of course, in autumn it's very cold but bearable but a beautiful experience. It's really a paradise,'' said Satish Modi, Tourist. There are very few places across the world which are so exotic in every season of the year and Kashmir is one of them.

Autumn in Kashmir, Valley turns red as tourists throng to witness colour changes

Delhi state government on Monday, said that it was ready for a lockdown to tackle air pollution in the city. Delhi's Environment Minister Gopal Rai said that the government had conveyed this to the Supreme Court of India. However, he stressed that the lockdown was possible only when it is implemented in Delhi and National Capital Region (NCR)

The NCR comes under the jurisdiction of various states around Delhi.

"We've told Supreme Court that we're ready for a lockdown...possible only when there's lockdown in NCR regions too. We're ready to take all measures with Centre, States; will follow whatever SC directs. Joint-action plan is needed," said Gopal Rai. He was quoted by ANI.

Meanwhile, the Supreme Court on Monday directed the Central government to call for an "emergency meeting" on November 16 with Punjab, Delhi, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh and sought an action plan to curb the air pollution in Delhi-NCR.

A Bench of Chief Justice of India NV Ramana, Justices DY Chandrachud and Surya Kant concluded that the major culprits of air pollution in the national capital are construction activities, industries, power plants, and vehicular transportation apart from stubble burning in some areas.

Posting the matter for hearing on November 17, the top court asked Haryana and Punjab governments to persuade the farmers to stop the stubble burning for a week. Following the Supreme Court`s suggestion, schools in Delhi and Haryana have been closed and all construction activities have also been suspended.

Delhi`s air quality on Monday witnessed marginal improvement as the air quality in the capital city reached the lower end of `very poor` category with Air Quality Index (AQI) at 318 (overall), according to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research.

(With inputs from agencies)

Delhi state government on Monday, said that it was ready for a lockdown to tackle air pollution in the city. Delhi's Environment Minister Gopal Rai said that the government had conveyed this to the Supreme Court of India.

Delhi state government on Monday, said that it was ready for a lockdown to tackle air pollution in the city. Delhi's Environment Minister Gopal Rai said that the government had conveyed this to the Supreme Court of India. However, he stressed that the lockdown was possible only when it is implemented in Delhi and National Capital Region (NCR) The NCR comes under the jurisdiction of various states around Delhi. "We've told Supreme Court that we're ready for a lockdown...possible only when there's lockdown in NCR regions too. We're ready to take all measures with Centre, States; will follow whatever SC directs. Joint-action plan is needed," said Gopal Rai. He was quoted by ANI. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court on Monday directed the Central government to call for an "emergency meeting" on November 16 with Punjab, Delhi, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh and sought an action plan to curb the air pollution in Delhi-NCR. A Bench of Chief Justice of India NV Ramana, Justices DY Chandrachud and Surya Kant concluded that the major culprits of air pollution in the national capital are construction activities, industries, power plants, and vehicular transportation apart from stubble burning in some areas. Posting the matter for hearing on November 17, the top court asked Haryana and Punjab governments to persuade the farmers to stop the stubble burning for a week. Following the Supreme Court`s suggestion, schools in Delhi and Haryana have been closed and all construction activities have also been suspended. Delhi`s air quality on Monday witnessed marginal improvement as the air quality in the capital city reached the lower end of `very poor` category with Air Quality Index (AQI) at 318 (overall), according to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research. (With inputs from agencies)

Ready for lockdown to curb air pollution, Delhi govt tells Supreme Court

In a major push for a hands-on approach to governance, the Modi government is planning to rope in young professionals, seek suggestions from retiring officials and make the best use of technology for project monitoring, besides various other steps to be overseen by eight different groups comprising of members from the entire Council of Ministers, sources said.

The 77 ministers have been divided into eight groups to develop technology-based resources, create a pool of professionals for recruiting in their teams and other similar initiatives to be adopted in the offices of all ministers' offices to bring more transparency and further improve and efficiency of the Modi government, the sources said.

This exercise of dividing the ministers into eight groups was done following 'Chintan Shivirs' (brainstorming sessions) of the entire council that were chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, with each meeting lasting for nearly five hours.

A total of five such sessions were held - one each on Personal Efficiency, Focused Implementation, Ministry Functioning and Stakeholder Engagement, Party Coordination and Effective Communication and the last one was on Parliamentary practices.

The last brainstorming meeting was also attended by the Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla and Rajya Sabha Chairman M Venkaiah Naidu.

All these meetings primarily focused on improving the efficiency and the delivery system of the Modi government. The forming of groups is another step in that direction, broadly focusing on overall improvement in the governance by making ministers more hands-on approach, the sources said.

All the 77 ministers in the council are part of one of these eight groups, each comprising nine to ten ministers with one Union minister designated as a group coordinator, sources said.

Developing a portal in each minister's office that gives updates on the performance of the Centre's flagship schemes and policies, a dashboard for monitoring decisions made by the respective ministers and a system to schedule meetings and managing correspondence are among the tasks assigned to these groups.

They have also been asked to create profiles of all districts, states and ministries and develop stakeholder engagement programmes.

One of the groups has been assigned to set up a mechanism for creating a team of at least three young professionals with command over research, communication and other key areas, the sources said.

Similarly, a group has been assigned to create a portal that maintains feedback and experiences of the retiring employees, sources said.

Union Ministers Hardeep Singh Puri, Narendra Singh Tomar, Piyush Goyal, Dharmendra Pradhan, Smriti Irani, Anurag Thakur are among the ministers who are the coordinators of their respective groups, the sources said.

They have been given this responsibility so that they can share the good practices of their respective offices with other cabinet colleagues.

Most of the ministers who had given presentations during the Chintan Shivirs have been given the responsibility of coordinating their respective groups.

Meanwhile, for attending these brainstorming sessions, Union ministers on the instruction of Prime Minister Modi did carpooling with their cabinet colleagues from different ministries and hailing from different states.

In a major push for a hands-on approach to governance, the Modi government is planning to rope in young professionals, seek suggestions from retiring officials and make the best use of technology for project monitoring, besides various other steps to be overseen by eight different groups comprising of members from the entire Council of Ministers, sources said.

In a major push for a hands-on approach to governance, the Modi government is planning to rope in young professionals, seek suggestions from retiring officials and make the best use of technology for project monitoring, besides various other steps to be overseen by eight different groups comprising of members from the entire Council of Ministers, sources said. The 77 ministers have been divided into eight groups to develop technology-based resources, create a pool of professionals for recruiting in their teams and other similar initiatives to be adopted in the offices of all ministers' offices to bring more transparency and further improve and efficiency of the Modi government, the sources said. This exercise of dividing the ministers into eight groups was done following 'Chintan Shivirs' (brainstorming sessions) of the entire council that were chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, with each meeting lasting for nearly five hours. A total of five such sessions were held - one each on Personal Efficiency, Focused Implementation, Ministry Functioning and Stakeholder Engagement, Party Coordination and Effective Communication and the last one was on Parliamentary practices. The last brainstorming meeting was also attended by the Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla and Rajya Sabha Chairman M Venkaiah Naidu. All these meetings primarily focused on improving the efficiency and the delivery system of the Modi government. The forming of groups is another step in that direction, broadly focusing on overall improvement in the governance by making ministers more hands-on approach, the sources said. All the 77 ministers in the council are part of one of these eight groups, each comprising nine to ten ministers with one Union minister designated as a group coordinator, sources said. Developing a portal in each minister's office that gives updates on the performance of the Centre's flagship schemes and policies, a dashboard for monitoring decisions made by the respective ministers and a system to schedule meetings and managing correspondence are among the tasks assigned to these groups. They have also been asked to create profiles of all districts, states and ministries and develop stakeholder engagement programmes. One of the groups has been assigned to set up a mechanism for creating a team of at least three young professionals with command over research, communication and other key areas, the sources said. Similarly, a group has been assigned to create a portal that maintains feedback and experiences of the retiring employees, sources said. Union Ministers Hardeep Singh Puri, Narendra Singh Tomar, Piyush Goyal, Dharmendra Pradhan, Smriti Irani, Anurag Thakur are among the ministers who are the coordinators of their respective groups, the sources said. They have been given this responsibility so that they can share the good practices of their respective offices with other cabinet colleagues. Most of the ministers who had given presentations during the Chintan Shivirs have been given the responsibility of coordinating their respective groups. Meanwhile, for attending these brainstorming sessions, Union ministers on the instruction of Prime Minister Modi did carpooling with their cabinet colleagues from different ministries and hailing from different states.

PM Modi divides council of ministers into 8 groups to improve transparency, governance

Education knows no age bar. A person can study at any point of time in life. This phrase is apt to describe the tale of a beaming centenarian, who has given the citizens of India yet another reason to cheer. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-pays-tribute-to-jawaharlal-nehru-on-his-132nd-birth-anniversary-429312" hreflang="en">PM Modi pays tribute to Jawaharlal Nehru on his 132nd birth anniversary</a>

Not just this, it is also a proud moment for the Indian state of Kerala as it has always had an inclination towards education as it has been the state with the highest literacy state for a long time. &nbsp; &nbsp;

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104-year-old Kuttiyamma from Kottayam has scored 89/100 in the Kerala State Literacy Mission’s test. Age is no barrier to enter the world of knowledge. With utmost respect and love, I wish Kuttiyamma and all other new learners the best. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Literacy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Literacy</a> <a href="https://t.co/pB5Fj9LYd9">pic.twitter.com/pB5Fj9LYd9</a>
— V. Sivankutty (@VSivankuttyCPIM) <a href="https://twitter.com/VSivankuttyCPIM/status/1459008890708758531?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 12, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The government of Kerala has also started to brag about its famed literacy endeavours as the state’s Education Minister Vasudevan Sivankutty on Friday posted a picture of 104-year-old Kuttiyamma on social media along with a heartfelt message to congratulate her for scoring well in an exam.

The exam was conducted by the government's continuing education initiative. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/respiratory-cases-on-rise-in-delhi-amid-rising-pollution-levels-says-doctors-429311" hreflang="en">Respiratory cases on rise in Delhi amid rising pollution levels, says doctors</a>

"104-year-old Kuttiyamma from Kottayam has scored 89/100 in the Kerala State Literacy Mission's test. Age is no barrier to enter the world of knowledge. With utmost respect and love, I wish Kuttiyamma and all other new learners the best," Sivankutty tweeted. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Education knows no age bar. A person can study at any point of time in life. This phrase is apt to describe the tale of a beaming centenarian, who has given the citizens of India yet another reason to cheer.

Education knows no age bar. A person can study at any point of time in life. This phrase is apt to describe the tale of a beaming centenarian, who has given the citizens of India yet another reason to cheer. Also Read: PM Modi pays tribute to Jawaharlal Nehru on his 132nd birth anniversary Not just this, it is also a proud moment for the Indian state of Kerala as it has always had an inclination towards education as it has been the state with the highest literacy state for a long time. 104-year-old Kuttiyamma from Kottayam has scored 89/100 in the Kerala State Literacy Mission’s test. Age is no barrier to enter the world of knowledge. With utmost respect and love, I wish Kuttiyamma and all other new learners the best. #Literacy pic.twitter.com/pB5Fj9LYd9 — V. Sivankutty (@VSivankuttyCPIM) November 12, 2021 × The government of Kerala has also started to brag about its famed literacy endeavours as the state’s Education Minister Vasudevan Sivankutty on Friday posted a picture of 104-year-old Kuttiyamma on social media along with a heartfelt message to congratulate her for scoring well in an exam. The exam was conducted by the government's continuing education initiative. Also Read: Respiratory cases on rise in Delhi amid rising pollution levels, says doctors "104-year-old Kuttiyamma from Kottayam has scored 89/100 in the Kerala State Literacy Mission's test. Age is no barrier to enter the world of knowledge. With utmost respect and love, I wish Kuttiyamma and all other new learners the best," Sivankutty tweeted. (With inputs from agencies)

104-year-old woman in India’s Kerala state gets 89 out of 100 marks in exam

In the world we live, energy is required for almost everything, from powering your car to keeping the lights on in your home. As the population soars unsustainably, so does the energy demand.

With the global population expected to increase by 2 billion in the next two&nbsp;decades, electricity generation is estimated to increase by almost 49&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;by the year 2040.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-addressing-climate-change-issue-efficiently-377435" hreflang="en">'India addressing climate change issue efficiently'&nbsp;</a>

For 2021, the International Energy Agency (IEA) estimates a growth of 4.6 per cent, with more than two-thirds of the current increase in demand coming from developing economies, with a significant increase in the demand for fossil fuels.&nbsp;

Reports also suggest that the demand for coal alone is projected to increase by almost 60&nbsp;per cent.

The truth is that most of the world's population does not have access to sufficient energy to meet even the most basic human needs – this is unfair.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/mission-sustainability-energy-is-needed-for-both-production-and-consumption-422677/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

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Non-renewables, energy production, and population pressure

&nbsp;Typically, developing countries have the highest population growth rates. As they are also the ones who struggle the most in adopting renewable energy.

Non-renewable resources have been the focal point of producing energy worldwide for centuries. They make up more than 80 per cent of global energy production.

Experts believe we may soon hit peak oil, and that the remaining oil there is to be found will be harder to extract, and more expensive.

Coal has been used for thousands of years, but it was during the industrial revolution that coal use soared. Today, coal supplies more than one-third of global electricity generation.

And then there is nuclear power -but it poses numerous threats to people and the environment.

Impact of non–renewable resources on the environment

It is evident that our world is converging to climate and ecological tipping points because of human activities.

Reducing the global carbon emissions to net-zero by 2050 and limiting the increase in global temperatures to 1.5°C requires a complete alteration in the methods of how energy is produced and consumed globally.

Considering the growing human population and our unsustainable activities, it is estimated that even if the pledges are successfully implemented, the world could still face around 22 billion tonnes of carbon emissions by 2050, resulting in a rise of 2.1°C in global temperatures by 2100.

Research tells us that more than 80% of the estimated growth in demand for coal in 2021 will be provided by Asia, led by China.

Renewable energy-Key to sustainable future with focus on India

In today’s era, tackling climate change and working to achieve sustainable development models have become a global agenda, and one way the world looks at achieving this is by transforming from non-renewable sources of energy to clean and green energy.

The demand and consumption of energy in India have been growing at one of the fastest rates in the world. India has been exploring various opportunities and facing challenges on its path to develop and provide economical and sustainable energy to its growing population.&nbsp;

Coal and oil are currently the main resources to meet India’s energy demands, with coal being a primary contributor, with a share of almost 57 per cent

However, modern renewable sources of energy such as solar and wind power are also gaining ground rapidly in the country.&nbsp;

According to IEA, India is on the edge of entering a solar power revolution which could replace coal as its major source for producing energy.&nbsp;

According to IEA’s Renewables 2020 report, India is set to witness the largest increase in its renewable resources focusing on its solar energy and wind power installations.

Conclusion

The fact is that population growth is driving all of our resource problems, including energy. Slowing the population growth will automatically reduce the energy demand. But there is hope – the world is witnessing a transition from non-renewable sources to renewable sources.

Supportive policies, increased availability, and lower costs will go a long way in popularising renewable energy sources in the next few decades.

In the world we live, energy is required for almost everything, from powering your car to keeping the lights on in your home. As the population soars unsustainably, so does the energy demand.

In the world we live, energy is required for almost everything, from powering your car to keeping the lights on in your home. As the population soars unsustainably, so does the energy demand. With the global population expected to increase by 2 billion in the next two decades, electricity generation is estimated to increase by almost 49 per cent by the year 2040. Also read | 'India addressing climate change issue efficiently' For 2021, the International Energy Agency (IEA) estimates a growth of 4.6 per cent, with more than two-thirds of the current increase in demand coming from developing economies, with a significant increase in the demand for fossil fuels. Reports also suggest that the demand for coal alone is projected to increase by almost 60 per cent. The truth is that most of the world's population does not have access to sufficient energy to meet even the most basic human needs – this is unfair. Also read | Overpopulation and human greed, the two enemies of biodiversity Non-renewables, energy production, and population pressure Typically, developing countries have the highest population growth rates. As they are also the ones who struggle the most in adopting renewable energy. Non-renewable resources have been the focal point of producing energy worldwide for centuries. They make up more than 80 per cent of global energy production. Experts believe we may soon hit peak oil, and that the remaining oil there is to be found will be harder to extract, and more expensive. Coal has been used for thousands of years, but it was during the industrial revolution that coal use soared. Today, coal supplies more than one-third of global electricity generation. And then there is nuclear power -but it poses numerous threats to people and the environment. Impact of non–renewable resources on the environment It is evident that our world is converging to climate and ecological tipping points because of human activities. Reducing the global carbon emissions to net-zero by 2050 and limiting the increase in global temperatures to 1.5°C requires a complete alteration in the methods of how energy is produced and consumed globally. Considering the growing human population and our unsustainable activities, it is estimated that even if the pledges are successfully implemented, the world could still face around 22 billion tonnes of carbon emissions by 2050, resulting in a rise of 2.1°C in global temperatures by 2100. Research tells us that more than 80% of the estimated growth in demand for coal in 2021 will be provided by Asia, led by China. Renewable energy-Key to sustainable future with focus on India In today’s era, tackling climate change and working to achieve sustainable development models have become a global agenda, and one way the world looks at achieving this is by transforming from non-renewable sources of energy to clean and green energy. The demand and consumption of energy in India have been growing at one of the fastest rates in the world. India has been exploring various opportunities and facing challenges on its path to develop and provide economical and sustainable energy to its growing population. Coal and oil are currently the main resources to meet India’s energy demands, with coal being a primary contributor, with a share of almost 57 per cent However, modern renewable sources of energy such as solar and wind power are also gaining ground rapidly in the country. According to IEA, India is on the edge of entering a solar power revolution which could replace coal as its major source for producing energy. According to IEA’s Renewables 2020 report, India is set to witness the largest increase in its renewable resources focusing on its solar energy and wind power installations. Conclusion The fact is that population growth is driving all of our resource problems, including energy. Slowing the population growth will automatically reduce the energy demand. But there is hope – the world is witnessing a transition from non-renewable sources to renewable sources. Supportive policies, increased availability, and lower costs will go a long way in popularising renewable energy sources in the next few decades.

Pressure on global energy crisis deepens with population growth

Overpopulation continues to be a pressing issue globally. As per experts, the global population grows by more than 80 million people every year. Today, there are over 7.8 billion people living and the population is projected to exceed 9 billion by 2050.

The impact of our growing numbers on environment, and non-renewable resources has multiplied to unsustainable levels. These consumption patterns can soon surpass our planets carrying capacity and ability to regenerate.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/world-environment-school-is-geared-toward-shaping-a-future-generation-for-a-green-planet-369320" hreflang="en">World Environment School is geared toward shaping a future generation for a green planet</a>

Many account for overpopulation as an effect of high birth rates, along with low mortality rates due to advancements in medical fields leading to longer life spans. And the most pressing cause of all is the lack of education and awareness among females.

With this unsustainable development, where are we headed? Will we ever be able to stabilise our population?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/mission-sustainability-population-vs-planet-global-electricity-demand-is-growing-faster-than-renewables-400805/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Overpopulation in India

India, with a current population of more than 1.39 billion, is projected to surpass China and be the most populous nation as early as 2027.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tackling-climate-change-new-centre-in-india-will-impart-training-on-circular-economy-369323" hreflang="en">Tackling climate change: New centre in India will impart training on circular economy</a>

Poverty and illiteracy have been the two major drivers of overpopulation in India.

Poor families tend to overlook education as a key to improved living standards and instead believe that the greater family members they have, the greater their chances to earn a livelihood.

Another issue adding to the overpopulation issue is the early marriage of girls, which is still prevailing in many parts of the country leading to girls having longer reproductive span and bearing more children.

Women's education and&nbsp;empowerment in India<o:p></o:p>

For any society to develop, women need to play a central role. Their voices and participation are crucial to overcome patriarchal mindsets.

Without education, women will have fewer opportunities. Poverty, unemployment and inequality are problems that cannot be solved by men alone and require women's participation.

When it comes to women's empowerment, the men's participation is also important, as they also need to be aware of decisions that their family will take.

The problems and inequalities between the genders are much greater in rural India. Ten years ago, the literacy rate for women in rural areas was only 58.8 per cent, while the national average was 65.46 per cent. Whereas the national average for men was over 82 per cent.

For Indian families in rural areas, girls play the role of a second mother by doing household work. This can discourage them from going to school.

This is where schemes like the Aakar project can be helpful for women.

<o:p></o:p>

Education – Powerful tool stemming population growth<o:p></o:p>

Education is one of the most powerful tools. Currently, nearly 40 per cent&nbsp;of pregnancies worldwide are unintended, which leads to a staggering 80 million births per year.

An increased focus on education around family planning, birth control, and improved access to contraceptives can help in population stabilisation.

<o:p></o:p>

Overpopulation and poverty

Poor people are often unable to afford or access education, depriving them of reaching prosperity for generations.

This is where the governments have to step in and make sure that everyone is provided education.

With an added emphasis on women’s education, we can reach higher levels of development and prosperity more effectively.

Ground Interventions in rural communities with High TFR districts like Project Aakar’s engagement and&nbsp;counselling drives and government population policy 2021-2030 are of high importance for sustainable development in the country.

The special emphasis on youth empowerment and education on family planning can go a long way in creating a viable and sustainable future for all.

Overpopulation continues to be a pressing issue globally. As per experts, the global population grows by more than 80 million people every year. Today, there are over 7.

Overpopulation continues to be a pressing issue globally. As per experts, the global population grows by more than 80 million people every year. Today, there are over 7.8 billion people living and the population is projected to exceed 9 billion by 2050. The impact of our growing numbers on environment, and non-renewable resources has multiplied to unsustainable levels. These consumption patterns can soon surpass our planets carrying capacity and ability to regenerate. Also read | World Environment School is geared toward shaping a future generation for a green planet Many account for overpopulation as an effect of high birth rates, along with low mortality rates due to advancements in medical fields leading to longer life spans. And the most pressing cause of all is the lack of education and awareness among females. With this unsustainable development, where are we headed? Will we ever be able to stabilise our population? Overpopulation in India India, with a current population of more than 1.39 billion, is projected to surpass China and be the most populous nation as early as 2027. Also read | Tackling climate change: New centre in India will impart training on circular economy Poverty and illiteracy have been the two major drivers of overpopulation in India. Poor families tend to overlook education as a key to improved living standards and instead believe that the greater family members they have, the greater their chances to earn a livelihood. Another issue adding to the overpopulation issue is the early marriage of girls, which is still prevailing in many parts of the country leading to girls having longer reproductive span and bearing more children. Women's education and empowerment in India For any society to develop, women need to play a central role. Their voices and participation are crucial to overcome patriarchal mindsets. Without education, women will have fewer opportunities. Poverty, unemployment and inequality are problems that cannot be solved by men alone and require women's participation. When it comes to women's empowerment, the men's participation is also important, as they also need to be aware of decisions that their family will take. The problems and inequalities between the genders are much greater in rural India. Ten years ago, the literacy rate for women in rural areas was only 58.8 per cent, while the national average was 65.46 per cent. Whereas the national average for men was over 82 per cent. For Indian families in rural areas, girls play the role of a second mother by doing household work. This can discourage them from going to school. This is where schemes like the Aakar project can be helpful for women. Education – Powerful tool stemming population growth Education is one of the most powerful tools. Currently, nearly 40 per cent of pregnancies worldwide are unintended, which leads to a staggering 80 million births per year. An increased focus on education around family planning, birth control, and improved access to contraceptives can help in population stabilisation. Overpopulation and poverty Poor people are often unable to afford or access education, depriving them of reaching prosperity for generations. This is where the governments have to step in and make sure that everyone is provided education. With an added emphasis on women’s education, we can reach higher levels of development and prosperity more effectively. Ground Interventions in rural communities with High TFR districts like Project Aakar’s engagement and counselling drives and government population policy 2021-2030 are of high importance for sustainable development in the country. The special emphasis on youth empowerment and education on family planning can go a long way in creating a viable and sustainable future for all.

Why education and empowerment are significant to population stabilisation?

Twenty-six Naxals&nbsp;were killed in an encounter with the Maharashtra police in the Gyarapatti forest of Korchi Tehsil in Gadchiroli district, Gadchiroli superintendent of police Ankit Goyal said.

C-60 unit of the anti-Naxal operation of Gadchiroli police has killed 26 Naxals&nbsp;in an encounter in Gyarapatti forest of Korchi Tehsil on Saturday, police said.

"Police had received secret information that there was a camp of Naxals&nbsp;in the Gyarapatti-Kodagul forest of Korchi, on the basis of this, the C-60 unit of Gadchiroli police started the search operation in Gyarapatti-Kodagul forest from 6 am on Saturday morning," Gadchiroli&nbsp;SP Ankit Goyal said.

The bodies of 26 Naxals&nbsp;have been recovered, whose identification is on, he added.

Along with the 26 bodies, the police also recovered a large amount of Naxal literature and weapons.

Four jawans of the C-60 unit were injured in the encounter that lasted for about eight hours. The jawans were&nbsp;airlifted to Nagpur and are undergoing treatment at Orange City Hospital in Nagpur.

Twenty-six Naxals were killed in an encounter with the Maharashtra police in the Gyarapatti forest of Korchi Tehsil in Gadchiroli district, Gadchiroli superintendent of police Ankit Goyal said.

Twenty-six Naxals were killed in an encounter with the Maharashtra police in the Gyarapatti forest of Korchi Tehsil in Gadchiroli district, Gadchiroli superintendent of police Ankit Goyal said. C-60 unit of the anti-Naxal operation of Gadchiroli police has killed 26 Naxals in an encounter in Gyarapatti forest of Korchi Tehsil on Saturday, police said. "Police had received secret information that there was a camp of Naxals in the Gyarapatti-Kodagul forest of Korchi, on the basis of this, the C-60 unit of Gadchiroli police started the search operation in Gyarapatti-Kodagul forest from 6 am on Saturday morning," Gadchiroli SP Ankit Goyal said. The bodies of 26 Naxals have been recovered, whose identification is on, he added. Along with the 26 bodies, the police also recovered a large amount of Naxal literature and weapons. Four jawans of the C-60 unit were injured in the encounter that lasted for about eight hours. The jawans were airlifted to Nagpur and are undergoing treatment at Orange City Hospital in Nagpur.

26 Naxals killed in encounter with police in Maharashtra's Gadchiroli district

Russia has started the delivery of S400 air defence system to India ahead of President Vladimir Putin's visit to New Delhi. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Putin is going to visit the country for the annual India-Russia summit on December 6. The one-day visit will see number of pacts being signed, especially between navies of the two countries. &nbsp;&nbsp;

"Russia has started supplying S-400 air defence system to India, the first division will be delivered by the end of 2021," said Federal Service for Military-Technical Cooperation (FSMTC) Director Dmitry Shugaev. FSMTC is managed by the president of the Russian Federation. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/quad-summits-on-the-anvil-japan-in-2022-india-in-2023-australia-in-2024-429119" hreflang="en">Quad summits on the anvil: Japan in 2022, India in 2023, Australia in 2024</a>

Putin last visited India in 2018 for the annual summit. Interestingly, it was during that visit, the contract for S400 system was signed between India and Russia. The visit by Russian president will be his second only foreign visit this year, the first one being to Geneva for summit level meeting with US President Joe Biden. &nbsp;

Defence forms main pillar of the India-Russia relationship as Moscow is New Delhi's largest defence partner. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The manufacture and co-production of four Project 1135.6 Frigates, manufacture in India of assault rifle - AK-203, through 100% indigenisation, additional supplies of Su-30 MKI, as well as the MiG-29s, additional supplies of the MANGO ammunition and VSHORAD systems are among the key projects. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/even-as-air-quality-deteriorates-india-reports-lowest-active-covid-cases-since-march-2020-429165" hreflang="en">Even as air quality deteriorates, India reports lowest active Covid cases since March 2020</a>

Earlier, Russia's top defence export body, Rosoboronexport, had expressed its readiness to give India technology for production of defence equipment. The company has worked together with Indian authorities for licensed production of multirole Su-30MKI fighter jets in India, the modernisation and transfer of the Vikramaditya aircraft carrier to the Indian Navy. &nbsp;

Rosoboronexport has also offered to train Indian specialists for the AK-203 Kalashnikov project in Amethi in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. Remember, India and Russia in 2019 signed an intergovernmental agreement for setting up Indo-Russian Rifles Private Limited, a joint venture to manufacture the AK-203 assault rifles. The project will see production of Russia's iconic assault rifles in India with 100% localisation.&nbsp;

Russia has started the delivery of S400 air defence system to India ahead of President Vladimir Putin's visit to New Delhi. Putin is going to visit the country for the annual India-Russia summit on December 6.

Russia has started the delivery of S400 air defence system to India ahead of President Vladimir Putin's visit to New Delhi. Putin is going to visit the country for the annual India-Russia summit on December 6. The one-day visit will see number of pacts being signed, especially between navies of the two countries. "Russia has started supplying S-400 air defence system to India, the first division will be delivered by the end of 2021," said Federal Service for Military-Technical Cooperation (FSMTC) Director Dmitry Shugaev. FSMTC is managed by the president of the Russian Federation. Also Read: Quad summits on the anvil: Japan in 2022, India in 2023, Australia in 2024 Putin last visited India in 2018 for the annual summit. Interestingly, it was during that visit, the contract for S400 system was signed between India and Russia. The visit by Russian president will be his second only foreign visit this year, the first one being to Geneva for summit level meeting with US President Joe Biden. Defence forms main pillar of the India-Russia relationship as Moscow is New Delhi's largest defence partner. The manufacture and co-production of four Project 1135.6 Frigates, manufacture in India of assault rifle - AK-203, through 100% indigenisation, additional supplies of Su-30 MKI, as well as the MiG-29s, additional supplies of the MANGO ammunition and VSHORAD systems are among the key projects. Also Read: Even as air quality deteriorates, India reports lowest active Covid cases since March 2020 Earlier, Russia's top defence export body, Rosoboronexport, had expressed its readiness to give India technology for production of defence equipment. The company has worked together with Indian authorities for licensed production of multirole Su-30MKI fighter jets in India, the modernisation and transfer of the Vikramaditya aircraft carrier to the Indian Navy. Rosoboronexport has also offered to train Indian specialists for the AK-203 Kalashnikov project in Amethi in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. Remember, India and Russia in 2019 signed an intergovernmental agreement for setting up Indo-Russian Rifles Private Limited, a joint venture to manufacture the AK-203 assault rifles. The project will see production of Russia's iconic assault rifles in India with 100% localisation.

Ahead of Putin visit, Russia begins delivery of S400 air defence system to India

Five soldiers including the commanding officer of 46 Assam Rifles&nbsp;and his two family members were killed in a&nbsp;terrorist attack&nbsp;on their convoy at Churachandpur in Manipur on Saturday.

Describing it as a cowardly&nbsp;attack, India's defence minister Rajnath Singh said the&nbsp;perpetrators will be brought to justice soon.

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The cowardly attack on an Assam Rifles convoy in Churachandpur, Manipur is extremely painful &amp; condemnable. The nation has lost 5 brave soldiers including CO 46 AR and two family members. 
 
My condolences to the bereaved families. The perpetrators will be brought to justice soon.
— Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) <a href="https://twitter.com/rajnathsingh/status/1459458164550606852?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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"The cowardly attack on an Assam Rifles convoy in Churachandpur, Manipur is extremely painful and condemnable. The nation has lost five&nbsp;brave soldiers including CO 46 AR and two family members," he said in a tweet.

"My condolences to the bereaved families. The perpetrators will be brought to justice soon," India's defence minister added.

Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh said the state forces and paramilitary troops are already on their job to track down those behind the attack.

"The perpetrators will be brought to justice," the chief minister said on Twitter.&nbsp;

PM Modi also condemned the attack on the soldiers of Assam Rifles.

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Strongly condemn the attack on the Assam Rifles convoy in Manipur. I pay homage to those soldiers and family members who have been martyred today. Their sacrifice will never be forgotten. My thoughts are with the bereaved families in this hour of sadness.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1459488175819091971?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Colonel Viplav Tripathi, commanding officer of 46 Assam Rifles, his wife and their&nbsp;8-year-old son lost their lives in the terrorist attack on a convoy of Assam Rifles in Churachandpur.

The convoy was targeted by suspected People's Revolutionary Party of Kangleipak (PREPAK) terrorists, a group in Manipur demanding a separate homeland.

Five soldiers including the commanding officer of 46 Assam Rifles and his two family members were killed in a terrorist attack on their convoy at Churachandpur in Manipur on Saturday.

Five soldiers including the commanding officer of 46 Assam Rifles and his two family members were killed in a terrorist attack on their convoy at Churachandpur in Manipur on Saturday. Describing it as a cowardly attack, India's defence minister Rajnath Singh said the perpetrators will be brought to justice soon. The cowardly attack on an Assam Rifles convoy in Churachandpur, Manipur is extremely painful & condemnable. The nation has lost 5 brave soldiers including CO 46 AR and two family members. My condolences to the bereaved families. The perpetrators will be brought to justice soon. — Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) November 13, 2021 × "The cowardly attack on an Assam Rifles convoy in Churachandpur, Manipur is extremely painful and condemnable. The nation has lost five brave soldiers including CO 46 AR and two family members," he said in a tweet. "My condolences to the bereaved families. The perpetrators will be brought to justice soon," India's defence minister added. Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh said the state forces and paramilitary troops are already on their job to track down those behind the attack. "The perpetrators will be brought to justice," the chief minister said on Twitter. PM Modi also condemned the attack on the soldiers of Assam Rifles. Strongly condemn the attack on the Assam Rifles convoy in Manipur. I pay homage to those soldiers and family members who have been martyred today. Their sacrifice will never be forgotten. My thoughts are with the bereaved families in this hour of sadness. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 13, 2021 × Colonel Viplav Tripathi, commanding officer of 46 Assam Rifles, his wife and their 8-year-old son lost their lives in the terrorist attack on a convoy of Assam Rifles in Churachandpur. The convoy was targeted by suspected People's Revolutionary Party of Kangleipak (PREPAK) terrorists, a group in Manipur demanding a separate homeland.

Five Assam Rifles soldiers killed as convoy attacked in Manipur

Members of the&nbsp;Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (QUAD)--India, the US, Australia, and Japan--&nbsp;have largely agreed on the annual summit schedule which will happen rotationally between the four&nbsp;countries.

WION has learned that Japan will host the summit next year (2022), India in the year 2023, and&nbsp;Australia&nbsp;in 2024.

The Quad grouping was elevated to leaders level this year with the first in-person summit that happened&nbsp;in Washington on September 24.&nbsp;

A joint statement after the summit said, "our leaders and foreign ministers will meet annually and our senior officials will meet regularly".

The September Quad summit saw US President Biden&nbsp;hosting Australian PM Scott Morrison, Japanese PM Yoshihide Suga, and Indian PM Narendra Modi.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/how-can-india-help-vietnam-in-the-disputed-south-china-sea-428966" hreflang="en">How can India help Vietnam in the disputed South China Sea?</a>

One of the biggest outcomes of that summit was the launch of the Quad Fellowship that will sponsor 100 students per year, 25 from each Quad country, to pursue masters and doctoral degrees at leading STEM (science technology engineering and mathematics) graduate universities in the United States.

The&nbsp;Quad grouping is also working on High-Standards Infrastructure, forming a Green-Shipping Network, establishing a Clean-Hydrogen Partnership, and launching a Semiconductor Supply Chain Initiative.

The first Quad summit took place virtually on March 12. One of the key outcomes of that summit was the Quad&nbsp;vaccine initiative under which Covid&nbsp;vaccines will be developed in the US, manufactured in India, financed by Japan and US, and supported by Australia.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-us-ties-22-meet-in-december-us-congressional-delegation-meets-pm-modi-429103" hreflang="en">India, US ties: 2+2 meet in December; US Congressional delegation meets Modi</a>

Quad first came into existence after the 2004 tsunami and saw some formalisation in 2007. At that time Australia had issues, with the grouping again meeting a decade later in 2017 at the official level.

Since 2019, Quad has had regular conversations at the foreign ministers' level. Quad is currently seen as a core element of the Indo-Pacific strategy supported by Washington and New Delhi.

The Indo-Pacific vision, which sees Indian and Pacific oceans as a common entity is now being backed by many countries.&nbsp;Quad&nbsp;is seen very suspiciously by&nbsp;China&nbsp;which has termed it "Asian&nbsp;Nato" something that has been dismissed by the grouping.&nbsp;

Members of the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (QUAD)--India, the US, Australia, and Japan-- have largely agreed on the annual summit schedule which will happen rotationally between the four countries.

Members of the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (QUAD)--India, the US, Australia, and Japan-- have largely agreed on the annual summit schedule which will happen rotationally between the four countries. WION has learned that Japan will host the summit next year (2022), India in the year 2023, and Australia in 2024. The Quad grouping was elevated to leaders level this year with the first in-person summit that happened in Washington on September 24. A joint statement after the summit said, "our leaders and foreign ministers will meet annually and our senior officials will meet regularly". The September Quad summit saw US President Biden hosting Australian PM Scott Morrison, Japanese PM Yoshihide Suga, and Indian PM Narendra Modi. Also read | How can India help Vietnam in the disputed South China Sea? One of the biggest outcomes of that summit was the launch of the Quad Fellowship that will sponsor 100 students per year, 25 from each Quad country, to pursue masters and doctoral degrees at leading STEM (science technology engineering and mathematics) graduate universities in the United States. The Quad grouping is also working on High-Standards Infrastructure, forming a Green-Shipping Network, establishing a Clean-Hydrogen Partnership, and launching a Semiconductor Supply Chain Initiative. The first Quad summit took place virtually on March 12. One of the key outcomes of that summit was the Quad vaccine initiative under which Covid vaccines will be developed in the US, manufactured in India, financed by Japan and US, and supported by Australia. Also read | India, US ties: 2+2 meet in December; US Congressional delegation meets Modi Quad first came into existence after the 2004 tsunami and saw some formalisation in 2007. At that time Australia had issues, with the grouping again meeting a decade later in 2017 at the official level. Since 2019, Quad has had regular conversations at the foreign ministers' level. Quad is currently seen as a core element of the Indo-Pacific strategy supported by Washington and New Delhi. The Indo-Pacific vision, which sees Indian and Pacific oceans as a common entity is now being backed by many countries. Quad is seen very suspiciously by China which has termed it "Asian Nato" something that has been dismissed by the grouping.

Quad summits on the anvil: Japan in 2022, India in 2023, Australia in 2024

Two brothers from India Vihaan,17, and Nav Agarwal ,14, won the International Children's Peace Prize for their role in reducing waste and pollution in New Delhi.

Three years ago the brothers had founded&nbsp;"One Step Greener" (OSG) aimed at preventing pollution caused by waste. It started as a small initiative initially but has now grown to cover several households, schools and offices in a city-wide operation.

Reports say the initiative is self-funded. Two years ago the brothers took part in a drive to plant trees in the capital with the help of NGOs.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cop26-summit-latest-draft-urges-coal-curbs-faster-climate-action-429005">Also Read:&nbsp;COP26 summit: Latest draft urges coal curbs, faster climate action</a>

Vihaan and Nav were handed the prestigious award by Indian Nobel Peace Prize laureate Kailash Satyarthi at a ceremony in The Hague, Netherlands.

The brothers took up the cause of air pollution after two people were killed in Delhi’s Ghazipur after the landfill collapsed. "One Step Greener" now has full-time employees including volunteers. The aim of the initiative is "Zero Waste India".

The award is significant in view of the COP26 summit in Glasgow where world leaders have pledged to take steps to address climate change over the next few decades.

(With inputs from Agencies) 
&nbsp;

Two brothers from India Vihaan,17, and Nav Agarwal ,14, won the International Children's Peace Prize for their role in reducing waste and pollution in New Delhi.

Two brothers from India Vihaan,17, and Nav Agarwal ,14, won the International Children's Peace Prize for their role in reducing waste and pollution in New Delhi. Three years ago the brothers had founded "One Step Greener" (OSG) aimed at preventing pollution caused by waste. It started as a small initiative initially but has now grown to cover several households, schools and offices in a city-wide operation. Reports say the initiative is self-funded. Two years ago the brothers took part in a drive to plant trees in the capital with the help of NGOs. Also Read: COP26 summit: Latest draft urges coal curbs, faster climate action Vihaan and Nav were handed the prestigious award by Indian Nobel Peace Prize laureate Kailash Satyarthi at a ceremony in The Hague, Netherlands. The brothers took up the cause of air pollution after two people were killed in Delhi’s Ghazipur after the landfill collapsed. "One Step Greener" now has full-time employees including volunteers. The aim of the initiative is "Zero Waste India". The award is significant in view of the COP26 summit in Glasgow where world leaders have pledged to take steps to address climate change over the next few decades. (With inputs from Agencies)

Indian brothers Vihaan and Nav Agarwal win International Children's Peace Prize

As the vaccination rate increases in the country, India has reported the lowest active Covid cases on Sunday morning. <o:p></o:p>

The Ministry of Health reported that the active cases are currently at 0.39 per cent of the total cases, which is the lowest since March 2020 when the Covid pandemic had started taking over the world.<o:p></o:p>

In addition to this, the recovery rate is also currently at 98.26 per cent, which is the highest since March 2020, as per the officials of Ministry of Health.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/schools-to-be-closed-government-employees-to-work-from-home-delhi-cm-kejriwal-issues-order-on-air-pollution-429040">Schools to be closed, government employees to work from home: Delhi CM Kejriwal issues order on air pollution</a></o:p>

India reported 135,918 active cases on Sunday morning, which is the lowest in the past 522 days (17 months).<o:p></o:p>

A total of 11,271 new Covid infections and 285 coronavirus-related were reported in the past 24 hours in India, taking total case tally to 34,437,307 and death toll to 463,530. Nearly 11,376 people recovered from the deadly virus taking the toll of recoveries to 33,837,859.<o:p></o:p>

In the past 24 hours, nearly 5,743,840 Indians got vaccinated, taking total vaccination number to 1,120,103,225.<o:p></o:p>

Nearly 623,751,344 samples have been tested till November 13, of which 1,255,904 samples were tested on November 13, as per data provided by Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR).

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-made-covid-vaccine-covaxin-is-778-effective-says-data-published-in-lancet-journal-428707">India-made Covid vaccine Covaxin is 77.8% effective, says data published in Lancet journal</a></o:p>

Kerala has reported 6,468 new cases and 23 deaths.<o:p></o:p>

While India is successfully battling the Covid pandemic, the country is currently fighting the problem of rising air pollution in some of the major cities of the nation. The Air Quality Index (AQI) in the capital city, New Delhi, is currently at 386 and in the ‘very poor’ category, SAFAR-India claimed.<o:p></o:p>

On November 13, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal announced a week-long closure of all schools and issued a directive of work-from-home for all government employees. In addition to this, he also ordered all construction activities to be stopped till at least November 17.<o:p></o:p>

"There was a suggestion in the Supreme Court over complete&nbsp;lockdown&nbsp;in Delhi if the pollution situation turns worse. We are drafting a proposal,"&nbsp;CM Kejriwal&nbsp;said, adding, "A&nbsp;proposal will be discussed with agencies and the Centre, if it happens, construction and vehicular movement will have to be stopped."<o:p></o:p>

As the vaccination rate increases in the country, India has reported the lowest active Covid cases on Sunday morning. The Ministry of Health reported that the active cases are currently at 0.

As the vaccination rate increases in the country, India has reported the lowest active Covid cases on Sunday morning. The Ministry of Health reported that the active cases are currently at 0.39 per cent of the total cases, which is the lowest since March 2020 when the Covid pandemic had started taking over the world. In addition to this, the recovery rate is also currently at 98.26 per cent, which is the highest since March 2020, as per the officials of Ministry of Health. Also read | Schools to be closed, government employees to work from home: Delhi CM Kejriwal issues order on air pollution India reported 135,918 active cases on Sunday morning, which is the lowest in the past 522 days (17 months). A total of 11,271 new Covid infections and 285 coronavirus-related were reported in the past 24 hours in India, taking total case tally to 34,437,307 and death toll to 463,530. Nearly 11,376 people recovered from the deadly virus taking the toll of recoveries to 33,837,859. In the past 24 hours, nearly 5,743,840 Indians got vaccinated, taking total vaccination number to 1,120,103,225. Nearly 623,751,344 samples have been tested till November 13, of which 1,255,904 samples were tested on November 13, as per data provided by Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR). Also read | India-made Covid vaccine Covaxin is 77.8% effective, says data published in Lancet journal Kerala has reported 6,468 new cases and 23 deaths. While India is successfully battling the Covid pandemic, the country is currently fighting the problem of rising air pollution in some of the major cities of the nation. The Air Quality Index (AQI) in the capital city, New Delhi, is currently at 386 and in the ‘very poor’ category, SAFAR-India claimed. On November 13, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal announced a week-long closure of all schools and issued a directive of work-from-home for all government employees. In addition to this, he also ordered all construction activities to be stopped till at least November 17. "There was a suggestion in the Supreme Court over complete lockdown in Delhi if the pollution situation turns worse. We are drafting a proposal," CM Kejriwal said, adding, "A proposal will be discussed with agencies and the Centre, if it happens, construction and vehicular movement will have to be stopped."

Even as air quality deteriorates, India reports lowest active Covid cases since March 2020

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday paid tributes to India`s first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru on his 132nd birth anniversary."Tributes to Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Ji on his birth anniversary," he tweeted.

In India, Children`s Day is celebrated on November 14 every year as a mark of respect to Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of independent India.Nehru was fondly called `Chacha Nehru` and was known for emphasising the importance of giving love and affection to children.After the death of Nehru, it was unanimously decided to celebrate his birthday as `Bal Diwas` or Children`s Day in India.

Nehru was born on November 14, 1889, in Uttar Pradesh`s Prayagraj. He breathed his last on May 27, 1964.He became the prime minister on August 15, 1947, following an active role in the freedom struggle of the country.On this day, a number of activities are organised for students in schools nationwide such as games, competitions, and so on, while government bodies pay tributes to the late prime minister and organise commemorative events on this day.

In 1954, the United Nations had declared November 20 as Universal Children`s Day and India used to celebrate Children`s Day on 20th November every year before 1956 but after the death of Prime Minister Nehru in 1964, a resolution was passed in the Parliament unanimously declaring the day of Pt. Nehru`s birth anniversary as National Children`s Day.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday paid tributes to India`s first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru on his 132nd birth anniversary."Tributes to Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Ji on his birth anniversary," he tweeted.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday paid tributes to India`s first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru on his 132nd birth anniversary."Tributes to Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Ji on his birth anniversary," he tweeted. In India, Children`s Day is celebrated on November 14 every year as a mark of respect to Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of independent India.Nehru was fondly called `Chacha Nehru` and was known for emphasising the importance of giving love and affection to children.After the death of Nehru, it was unanimously decided to celebrate his birthday as `Bal Diwas` or Children`s Day in India. Nehru was born on November 14, 1889, in Uttar Pradesh`s Prayagraj. He breathed his last on May 27, 1964.He became the prime minister on August 15, 1947, following an active role in the freedom struggle of the country.On this day, a number of activities are organised for students in schools nationwide such as games, competitions, and so on, while government bodies pay tributes to the late prime minister and organise commemorative events on this day. In 1954, the United Nations had declared November 20 as Universal Children`s Day and India used to celebrate Children`s Day on 20th November every year before 1956 but after the death of Prime Minister Nehru in 1964, a resolution was passed in the Parliament unanimously declaring the day of Pt. Nehru`s birth anniversary as National Children`s Day.

PM Modi pays tribute to Jawaharlal Nehru on his 132nd birth anniversary

According to an analysis by the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC), people in the national capital breathe the worst air between November 1 and November 15 every year, as unhelpful meteorological conditions trap pollutants coming from local sources and stubble burning in neighbouring states - Punjab and Haryana.

On Saturday, the Delhi government announced closure of physical classes in schools, colleges and other educational institutions for a week from Monday.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/schools-to-be-closed-government-employees-to-work-from-home-delhi-cm-kejriwal-issues-order-on-air-pollution-429040">Also Read:&nbsp;Schools to be closed in Delhi, government employees to work from home</a>

All government offices, agencies and autonomous bodies, except those involved in essential services, have been asked to work from home.

No construction and demolition activity is allowed in the capital till November 17, it announced in a desperate effort to contain spiralling air pollution levels.

Doctors say there has been a "30 to 40 per cent increase" in the number of people coming to hospitals with respiratory problems.

"We have observed an increase in the severity of asthma attacks. Those with pre-existing respiratory issues are requiring hospitalisation. These are acute effects of the hazardous air pollution in the city," said Dr Vikas Maurya, head of Pulmonology Department, Fortis Hospital, Shalimar Bagh.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-pollution-situation-very-serious-in-new-delhi-says-indias-cji-nv-ramana-428954">Also Read:&nbsp;Air pollution situation 'very serious’ in New Delhi, says India's CJI NV Ramana</a>

The hospital has been reporting 25 to 30 cases of respiratory disorders per day. Of these, three to four are of "severe" nature.&nbsp;

Around 50-55 patients with breathing issues are admitted in the hospital at present, he said.

Dr Abhinav Guliani, pulmonologist, Ganga Ram Hospital, said there has been a two to threefold increase in the number of patients with respiratory infections since Diwali.

"We have been witnessing up to 30 patients per week. Normally, we would see around 10 to 20 such patients in a week," he said.

The hospital has been advising elderly patients and those with respiratory diseases to stay at home and step out only if it is absolutely necessary.

Dr Neetu Jain, senior pulmonologist at PSRI Hospital, said they have recorded at least 25 per cent increase in respiratory diseases.

"We have admitted around seven patients, who have been stable in the last one year, after the rise in air pollution. We have also witnessed an uptick in the number of people without any history of respiratory illnesses," she said.&nbsp;

According to an analysis by the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC), people in the national capital breathe the worst air between November 1 and November 15 every year, as unhelpful meteorological conditions trap pollutants coming from local sources and stubble burning in neighbouring states - Punjab and Haryana.

According to an analysis by the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC), people in the national capital breathe the worst air between November 1 and November 15 every year, as unhelpful meteorological conditions trap pollutants coming from local sources and stubble burning in neighbouring states - Punjab and Haryana. On Saturday, the Delhi government announced closure of physical classes in schools, colleges and other educational institutions for a week from Monday. Also Read: Schools to be closed in Delhi, government employees to work from home All government offices, agencies and autonomous bodies, except those involved in essential services, have been asked to work from home. No construction and demolition activity is allowed in the capital till November 17, it announced in a desperate effort to contain spiralling air pollution levels. Doctors say there has been a "30 to 40 per cent increase" in the number of people coming to hospitals with respiratory problems. "We have observed an increase in the severity of asthma attacks. Those with pre-existing respiratory issues are requiring hospitalisation. These are acute effects of the hazardous air pollution in the city," said Dr Vikas Maurya, head of Pulmonology Department, Fortis Hospital, Shalimar Bagh. Also Read: Air pollution situation 'very serious’ in New Delhi, says India's CJI NV Ramana The hospital has been reporting 25 to 30 cases of respiratory disorders per day. Of these, three to four are of "severe" nature. Around 50-55 patients with breathing issues are admitted in the hospital at present, he said. Dr Abhinav Guliani, pulmonologist, Ganga Ram Hospital, said there has been a two to threefold increase in the number of patients with respiratory infections since Diwali. "We have been witnessing up to 30 patients per week. Normally, we would see around 10 to 20 such patients in a week," he said. The hospital has been advising elderly patients and those with respiratory diseases to stay at home and step out only if it is absolutely necessary. Dr Neetu Jain, senior pulmonologist at PSRI Hospital, said they have recorded at least 25 per cent increase in respiratory diseases. "We have admitted around seven patients, who have been stable in the last one year, after the rise in air pollution. We have also witnessed an uptick in the number of people without any history of respiratory illnesses," she said.

Respiratory cases on rise in Delhi amid rising pollution levels, says doctors

Sri Lanka has called for an in-person BIMSTEC summit, however, the date is yet to be decided.

It will be the fifth summit of the grouping whenever it takes place. BIMSTEC or Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation has seven&nbsp;members - India, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Thailand&nbsp;and Sri Lanka. The grouping is more than twenty&nbsp;years old and was formed in 1997. The last summit took place in Kathmandu in 2018&nbsp;with PM Modi and other member leaders attending the meet.&nbsp;

Sri Lanka is the chair of the grouping and had earlier proposed holding a virtual summit on December 9&nbsp;which has now been postponed. It had earlier proposed a summit in August.

It is the second time&nbsp;Colombo had to post the summit, the reason for which has not been given. In April, the BIMSTEC foreign ministers meet had taken&nbsp;place virtually during which the agenda for the leaders' summit was taken up. On the agenda at the summit will be the approval of the BIMSTEC charter, BIMSTEC master plan for transport connectivity and&nbsp;BIMSTEC convention on mutual legal assistance in criminal matters.

The grouping is also working on the finalisation of the BIMSTEC coastal shipping agreement and the motor vehicles agreement.

India has been keen on the grouping&nbsp;with SAARC unable to function well due to Pakistan's politicisation of many proposals of New Delhi. In 2019, India had invited BIMSTEC heads of government and&nbsp;states for PM Modi's oath-taking ceremony for the second&nbsp;term. After Sri Lanka, Thailand will be the host of the grouping.

Meanwhile, BIMSTEC also faces a dilemma over Myanmar's presence. The&nbsp;Association of South-East Asian Nations (ASEAN) during October's&nbsp;annual summit had&nbsp;not invited Gen Min Aung Hlaing who seized power in Myanmar earlier this year. The country's military&nbsp;leadership has seen global backlash over continued violence in the country.&nbsp;

Sri Lanka has called for an in-person BIMSTEC summit, however, the date is yet to be decided. It will be the fifth summit of the grouping whenever it takes place.

Sri Lanka has called for an in-person BIMSTEC summit, however, the date is yet to be decided. It will be the fifth summit of the grouping whenever it takes place. BIMSTEC or Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation has seven members - India, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Thailand and Sri Lanka. The grouping is more than twenty years old and was formed in 1997. The last summit took place in Kathmandu in 2018 with PM Modi and other member leaders attending the meet. Sri Lanka is the chair of the grouping and had earlier proposed holding a virtual summit on December 9 which has now been postponed. It had earlier proposed a summit in August. It is the second time Colombo had to post the summit, the reason for which has not been given. In April, the BIMSTEC foreign ministers meet had taken place virtually during which the agenda for the leaders' summit was taken up. On the agenda at the summit will be the approval of the BIMSTEC charter, BIMSTEC master plan for transport connectivity and BIMSTEC convention on mutual legal assistance in criminal matters. The grouping is also working on the finalisation of the BIMSTEC coastal shipping agreement and the motor vehicles agreement. India has been keen on the grouping with SAARC unable to function well due to Pakistan's politicisation of many proposals of New Delhi. In 2019, India had invited BIMSTEC heads of government and states for PM Modi's oath-taking ceremony for the second term. After Sri Lanka, Thailand will be the host of the grouping. Meanwhile, BIMSTEC also faces a dilemma over Myanmar's presence. The Association of South-East Asian Nations (ASEAN) during October's annual summit had not invited Gen Min Aung Hlaing who seized power in Myanmar earlier this year. The country's military leadership has seen global backlash over continued violence in the country.

Sri Lanka calls for in-person BIMSTEC summit; postpones December meet

After the Reserve Bank of India governor warned investors against digital currency, India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired a meeting on Saturday to address the concerns about the virtual currency market.<o:p></o:p>

The meeting talked about making sure that the young people are not misled about digital currency through over-promising and non-transparent promises.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/even-as-air-quality-deteriorates-india-reports-lowest-active-covid-cases-since-march-2020-429165">Even as air quality deteriorates, India reports lowest active Covid cases since March 2020</a></o:p>

"It was also discussed that unregulated crypto markets cannot be let to become avenues for money laundering and terror financing," the report said.

The government plans to closely monitor cryptocurrency as it is believed to be a quickly evolving technology. Officials have been directed to take proactive steps if any discrepancy is spotted. This was a result of a "consultative process as RBI, finance ministry, the home ministry had done an elaborate exercise on it as well as consulted experts from across the country and the world," sources who know about the matter told news agencies.

<o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-prime-minister-chairs-cryptocurrency-meet-429218">WATCH |</a></o:p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-prime-minister-chairs-cryptocurrency-meet-429218/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

This meeting took place as RBI has adopted a staunch approach on cryptocurrencies and has labelled it as a threat to the financial stability of the country. A detailed report by the RBI's internal panel is expected to be generated by the end of next month.<o:p></o:p>

It was also decided that the Centre will also be looking forward to global partnerships in cryptocurrency-related issues. "Since the issue cuts across individual countries' borders, it was felt that it will also require global partnerships and collective strategies," sources added.<o:p></o:p>

RBI has also claimed that it hopes to come up with an official digital currency of its own, but there has been no confirmed plans or announcements on it yet.

<o:p>(With inputs from agencies)</o:p>

After the Reserve Bank of India governor warned investors against digital currency, India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired a meeting on Saturday to address the concerns about the virtual currency market.

After the Reserve Bank of India governor warned investors against digital currency, India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired a meeting on Saturday to address the concerns about the virtual currency market. The meeting talked about making sure that the young people are not misled about digital currency through over-promising and non-transparent promises. Also read | Even as air quality deteriorates, India reports lowest active Covid cases since March 2020 "It was also discussed that unregulated crypto markets cannot be let to become avenues for money laundering and terror financing," the report said. The government plans to closely monitor cryptocurrency as it is believed to be a quickly evolving technology. Officials have been directed to take proactive steps if any discrepancy is spotted. This was a result of a "consultative process as RBI, finance ministry, the home ministry had done an elaborate exercise on it as well as consulted experts from across the country and the world," sources who know about the matter told news agencies. WATCH | This meeting took place as RBI has adopted a staunch approach on cryptocurrencies and has labelled it as a threat to the financial stability of the country. A detailed report by the RBI's internal panel is expected to be generated by the end of next month. It was also decided that the Centre will also be looking forward to global partnerships in cryptocurrency-related issues. "Since the issue cuts across individual countries' borders, it was felt that it will also require global partnerships and collective strategies," sources added. RBI has also claimed that it hopes to come up with an official digital currency of its own, but there has been no confirmed plans or announcements on it yet. (With inputs from agencies)

After RBI's warning against cryptocurrency, PM Modi chairs crucial meeting

According to Russia's state-owned news agency Sputnik, Russia has started delivering its S-400 surface to air missile systems to India. Deliveries are going as planned.

Russia starts supplying it's most advanced long ranges missile system to India

Indian Prime minister chairs cryptocurrency meet

External affairs minister Dr. S Jaishankar has said that India, UAE, US, and Israel--also termed as West Asian Quad--will be meeting in the&nbsp; coming&nbsp;week.

In response to a question at the India Pavilion at the Dubai Expo, EAM said,&nbsp;&nbsp;"you know, we had the initial meeting a month ago...that was hybrid meeting...we had to have follow up session on that. We agree on exactly how we go...that follow up meeting will take place in coming weeks probably in Dubai."

The West Asian Quad met on October 18, during EAM's Israel visit, with, United Arab Emirates Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed and US Secretary of state Antony Blinken joining virtually. Israeli Foreign Minister Yair Lapid and Indian EAM were together in person.&nbsp;One of the key focuses of the quad meet was issues like trade, climate, and maritime security.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/quad-summits-on-the-anvil-japan-in-2022-india-in-2023-australia-in-2024-429119" hreflang="en">Quad summits on the anvil: Japan in 2022, India in 2023, Australia in 2024</a>

The Quad meeting is seen as one of the key dividends of the Abraham accords that saw the normalisation of ties between Israel and the United Arab Emirates. UAE was the first country in the Persian Gulf to normalize ties with Israel.

India has strong ties with both Israel and UAE in West Asia and since the accords were signed, they have worked in a trilateral arrangement. In May, the three&nbsp;countries signed the first-ever pact that involves producing robotic solar cleaning technology in India for a project in UAE by an Israel-based company Ecoppia. The trilateral partnership was initiated by the International Federation of Indo-Israel Chambers of Commerce (IFIICC).

During the press conference, a question was asked on the Indian covid vaccine, COVAXIN's getting recognition by UAE, to which Indian envoy to UAE, &nbsp;Pavan Kapoor said,&nbsp;"UAE has clearly said in the past, they recognise all WHO-approved vaccines.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-us-ties-22-meet-in-december-us-congressional-delegation-meets-pm-modi-429103" hreflang="en">India, US ties: 2+2 meet in December; US Congressional delegation meets PM Modi</a>

COVAXIN is WHO-recognised and it is very much recognised by UAE. WHO gave authorisation to the Indian vaccine earlier this month. New Delhi has also formally taken up with UAE, the need to remove rapid tests for covid at the airport given increased vaccination, low level of Covid-positive cases in India.&nbsp;

Indian expatriate community of around 3.3 million is the largest ethnic community in UAE constituting roughly about 30 per cent of the country’s population. Among the Indian States, Kerala is the most represented followed by Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh. Indians from the Northern States also form a significant portion of the UAE Indian population.

During the Dubai visit, EAM had meetings with UAE FM Zayed, FM Jean Asselborn of Luxembourg, Slovakia FM Ivan Korcok and Cyprus FM Nikos Christodoulides. The FM of&nbsp;Cyprus&nbsp;also paid a visit to India Pavilion at the mega expo.

External affairs minister Dr. S Jaishankar has said that India, UAE, US, and Israel--also termed as West Asian Quad--will be meeting in the coming week. In response to a question at the India Pavilion at the Dubai Expo, EAM said, "you know, we had the initial meeting a month ago.

External affairs minister Dr. S Jaishankar has said that India, UAE, US, and Israel--also termed as West Asian Quad--will be meeting in the coming week. In response to a question at the India Pavilion at the Dubai Expo, EAM said, "you know, we had the initial meeting a month ago...that was hybrid meeting...we had to have follow up session on that. We agree on exactly how we go...that follow up meeting will take place in coming weeks probably in Dubai." The West Asian Quad met on October 18, during EAM's Israel visit, with, United Arab Emirates Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed and US Secretary of state Antony Blinken joining virtually. Israeli Foreign Minister Yair Lapid and Indian EAM were together in person. One of the key focuses of the quad meet was issues like trade, climate, and maritime security. Also read | Quad summits on the anvil: Japan in 2022, India in 2023, Australia in 2024 The Quad meeting is seen as one of the key dividends of the Abraham accords that saw the normalisation of ties between Israel and the United Arab Emirates. UAE was the first country in the Persian Gulf to normalize ties with Israel. India has strong ties with both Israel and UAE in West Asia and since the accords were signed, they have worked in a trilateral arrangement. In May, the three countries signed the first-ever pact that involves producing robotic solar cleaning technology in India for a project in UAE by an Israel-based company Ecoppia. The trilateral partnership was initiated by the International Federation of Indo-Israel Chambers of Commerce (IFIICC). During the press conference, a question was asked on the Indian covid vaccine, COVAXIN's getting recognition by UAE, to which Indian envoy to UAE, Pavan Kapoor said, "UAE has clearly said in the past, they recognise all WHO-approved vaccines. Also read | India, US ties: 2+2 meet in December; US Congressional delegation meets PM Modi COVAXIN is WHO-recognised and it is very much recognised by UAE. WHO gave authorisation to the Indian vaccine earlier this month. New Delhi has also formally taken up with UAE, the need to remove rapid tests for covid at the airport given increased vaccination, low level of Covid-positive cases in India. Indian expatriate community of around 3.3 million is the largest ethnic community in UAE constituting roughly about 30 per cent of the country’s population. Among the Indian States, Kerala is the most represented followed by Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh. Indians from the Northern States also form a significant portion of the UAE Indian population. During the Dubai visit, EAM had meetings with UAE FM Zayed, FM Jean Asselborn of Luxembourg, Slovakia FM Ivan Korcok and Cyprus FM Nikos Christodoulides. The FM of Cyprus also paid a visit to India Pavilion at the mega expo.

India, UAE, US and Israel 'West Asian Quad' meet in next few weeks: EAM Jaishankar

Authorities on Friday advised people to limit outdoor activities and told government and private offices to cut vehicle use by at least 30 per cent as air quality in Delhi-NCR inched towards the emergency level amid a rise in emissions from farm fires and unfavourable meteorological conditions.

Over 4,000 farm fires, accounting for 35 per cent of Delhi's pollution on Friday, played a major role in pushing the 24-hour average Air Quality Index (AQI) to 471 by 4 pm, the worst this season so far. It was 411 on Thursday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/new-delhi-reels-under-pollution-students-stay-home-427822">Also Read:&nbsp;New Delhi reels under pollution, students stay home</a>

A sub-committee on Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) said meteorological conditions will be highly unfavourable for dispersion of pollutants till November 18 and agencies concerned must be fully ready to implement measures under "emergency"&nbsp;category.

The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) said the 24-hour average concentration of lung-damaging fine particles known as PM2.5 in Delhi-NCR crossed the 300 mark around midnight and stood at 381 micrograms per cubic metre at 4 pm on Friday, over six times the safe limit of 60 micrograms per cubic metre.

The PM10 level was recorded at 577 micrograms per cubic metre, over five times the safe limit of 100 micrograms per cubic metre.

According to GRAP, the air quality is considered to be in the 'emergency' category if the PM2.5 and PM10 levels continue to be above 300 micrograms per cubic metre and 500 micrograms per cubic metre respectively for 48 hours or more.

After reviewing the situation, the sub-committee on GRAP said, "Government and private offices and other establishments are advised to reduce vehicle usage by at least 30 per cent (by working from home, carpooling, optimising field activities etc). People are advised to limit outdoor activities and minimise their exposure."

"Concerned agencies must be in complete readiness for implementation of measures under 'emergency' category as per GRAP (Graded Response Action Plan)," an order issued by the committee read.

The GRAP -&nbsp;a set of anti-pollution measures followed in Delhi and its vicinity, according to the severity of the situation comes into force in mid-October when air quality levels start worsening.

The measures to be followed in the 'emergency' situation include stopping the entry of trucks in Delhi, ban on construction activities and introducing the odd-even car rationing scheme.

CPCB Member Secretary Prashant Gargava observed that in view of unfavourable meteorology, stubble burning and poor dispersion resulting in accumulation of pollutants, the coming week is critical regarding Delhi-NCR's air quality.

The CPCB said an action-taken report is received daily from Uttar Pradesh and Haryana Pollution Control Boards but these are awaited from Delhi Pollution Control Committee and Rajasthan State Pollution Control Board.

According to an analysis by the Delhi Pollution Control Committee, people in Delhi breathe the worst air between November 1 and November 15 every year. The city has recorded severe air quality on six of the last eight days after Diwali.

Faridabad (460), Ghaziabad (486), Greater Noida (478), Gurgaon (448) and Noida (488) also recorded severe air quality at 4 pm on Friday.

An AQI between zero and 50 is considered "good", 51 and 100 "satisfactory", 101 and 200 "moderate", 201 and 300 "poor", 301 and 400 "very poor", and 401 and 500 "severe".

A layer of eye-stinging smog lingering over Delhi-NCR thickened on Friday, giving an orange tint to the sun and lowering visibility to 200 metres at several places in the region.

India Meteorological Department officials said moderate fog and low temperatures in the morning -- a low of 12.6 degrees Celsius on Friday -- and calm winds have been trapping pollutants close to the ground.

"Visibility levels at the Indira Gandhi International Airport and the Safdarjung Airport dropped to 200-500 metres due to moderate fog. It intensified on Friday due to high humidity," an official said.

Green think tank Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) has said the ongoing smog episode is a public health emergency and could be the longest in four years. In another report, it said vehicles accounted for more than 50 per cent of Delhi's pollution from October 24 to November 8.

According to the Ministry of Earth Sciences' air quality forecasting agency SAFAR, stubble burning has accounted for at least 25 per cent of Delhi's PM2.5 pollution for nine days on the trot, starting November 4.

Authorities on Friday advised people to limit outdoor activities and told government and private offices to cut vehicle use by at least 30 per cent as air quality in Delhi-NCR inched towards the emergency level amid a rise in emissions from farm fires and unfavourable meteorological conditions.

Authorities on Friday advised people to limit outdoor activities and told government and private offices to cut vehicle use by at least 30 per cent as air quality in Delhi-NCR inched towards the emergency level amid a rise in emissions from farm fires and unfavourable meteorological conditions. Over 4,000 farm fires, accounting for 35 per cent of Delhi's pollution on Friday, played a major role in pushing the 24-hour average Air Quality Index (AQI) to 471 by 4 pm, the worst this season so far. It was 411 on Thursday. Also Read: New Delhi reels under pollution, students stay home A sub-committee on Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) said meteorological conditions will be highly unfavourable for dispersion of pollutants till November 18 and agencies concerned must be fully ready to implement measures under "emergency" category. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) said the 24-hour average concentration of lung-damaging fine particles known as PM2.5 in Delhi-NCR crossed the 300 mark around midnight and stood at 381 micrograms per cubic metre at 4 pm on Friday, over six times the safe limit of 60 micrograms per cubic metre. The PM10 level was recorded at 577 micrograms per cubic metre, over five times the safe limit of 100 micrograms per cubic metre. According to GRAP, the air quality is considered to be in the 'emergency' category if the PM2.5 and PM10 levels continue to be above 300 micrograms per cubic metre and 500 micrograms per cubic metre respectively for 48 hours or more. After reviewing the situation, the sub-committee on GRAP said, "Government and private offices and other establishments are advised to reduce vehicle usage by at least 30 per cent (by working from home, carpooling, optimising field activities etc). People are advised to limit outdoor activities and minimise their exposure." "Concerned agencies must be in complete readiness for implementation of measures under 'emergency' category as per GRAP (Graded Response Action Plan)," an order issued by the committee read. The GRAP - a set of anti-pollution measures followed in Delhi and its vicinity, according to the severity of the situation comes into force in mid-October when air quality levels start worsening. The measures to be followed in the 'emergency' situation include stopping the entry of trucks in Delhi, ban on construction activities and introducing the odd-even car rationing scheme. CPCB Member Secretary Prashant Gargava observed that in view of unfavourable meteorology, stubble burning and poor dispersion resulting in accumulation of pollutants, the coming week is critical regarding Delhi-NCR's air quality. The CPCB said an action-taken report is received daily from Uttar Pradesh and Haryana Pollution Control Boards but these are awaited from Delhi Pollution Control Committee and Rajasthan State Pollution Control Board. According to an analysis by the Delhi Pollution Control Committee, people in Delhi breathe the worst air between November 1 and November 15 every year. The city has recorded severe air quality on six of the last eight days after Diwali. Faridabad (460), Ghaziabad (486), Greater Noida (478), Gurgaon (448) and Noida (488) also recorded severe air quality at 4 pm on Friday. An AQI between zero and 50 is considered "good", 51 and 100 "satisfactory", 101 and 200 "moderate", 201 and 300 "poor", 301 and 400 "very poor", and 401 and 500 "severe". A layer of eye-stinging smog lingering over Delhi-NCR thickened on Friday, giving an orange tint to the sun and lowering visibility to 200 metres at several places in the region. India Meteorological Department officials said moderate fog and low temperatures in the morning -- a low of 12.6 degrees Celsius on Friday -- and calm winds have been trapping pollutants close to the ground. "Visibility levels at the Indira Gandhi International Airport and the Safdarjung Airport dropped to 200-500 metres due to moderate fog. It intensified on Friday due to high humidity," an official said. Green think tank Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) has said the ongoing smog episode is a public health emergency and could be the longest in four years. In another report, it said vehicles accounted for more than 50 per cent of Delhi's pollution from October 24 to November 8. According to the Ministry of Earth Sciences' air quality forecasting agency SAFAR, stubble burning has accounted for at least 25 per cent of Delhi's PM2.5 pollution for nine days on the trot, starting November 4.

Get ready to implement emergency measures, says Pollution Control Board as Delhi's air quality worsens

Professor Bimal Patel, Vice-Chancellor of the Rashtriya Raksha University and Member of the National Security Advisory Board of India, has been elected to the International Law Commission for a five-year term, in a hard-fought election at the United Nations.

"Hearty felicitations to Prof Bimal Patel @RakshaUni for election to International Law Commission by topping the group," India's Permanent Representative to the UN Ambassador T S Tirumurti tweeted on Friday, thanking all UN member states for overwhelming support to India's candidature.

Patel, 51, garnered 163 votes in the UN General Assembly out of 192 members present and voting, topping the Asia-Pacific group that included candidates from China, South Korea and Japan. He will serve a five-year term starting January 1, 2023.

In the Asia-Pacific group, there were 11 very strong candidates vying for 8 seats, making the election hotly-contested.

"Professor Bimal Patel of India is elected to the ILC for a 5-year term. Our contribution to ILC will reflect the commitment to uphold rules-based international order, underpinned by Rule Of Law," India's Permanent Mission to the UN tweeted, in the backdrop of growing global concern over China's military muscle-flexing in the Indo-Pacific region.

"Heartfelt gratitude to all countries who reposed their trust in India's candidate with highest votes in Asia-Pacific Group,"&nbsp;the mission said.

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Professor Bimal Patel of 🇮🇳 is elected to the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ILC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ILC</a> for a 5 year term. 
 
Our contribution to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ILC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ILC</a> will reflect the commitment to uphold rules-based international order, underpinned by <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RuleOfLaw?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RuleOfLaw</a> <a href="https://t.co/4MG953GQQW">pic.twitter.com/4MG953GQQW</a>
— India at UN, NY (@IndiaUNNewYork) <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiaUNNewYork/status/1459221439568130053?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 12, 2021</a></blockquote>
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India topped the group with 163 votes for Patel, followed by 162 votes for Thailand, 154 for Japan, 145 for Vietnam. China could manage 142 votes, followed by 140 for South Korea, 139 for Cyprus and 123 for Mongolia.

China is engaged in hotly contested territorial disputes in the South and East China Seas. Beijing has also made substantial progress in militarising its man-made islands in the past few years.

Beijing claims almost all of the 1.3 million square-mile South China Sea as its sovereign territory. China has been building military bases on artificial islands in the region which, in parts, is claimed by Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan and Vietnam.

Beijing has impeded commercial activity like fishing and mineral exploration by neighbouring nations in recent years, saying the ownership of the resource-rich maritime territory belongs to China for hundreds of years.

Patel is an esteemed educationalist, jurist and administrator and during his professional career of over three decades, he has served in various roles such as the Director at the Gujarat National Law University and member of the 21st Law Commission of India.

He has worked for 15 years at global organisations such as the United Nations of Youth and the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) at the Hague, Netherlands, according to his profile on the Rashtriya Raksha University website.

The International Law Commission was established by the General Assembly in 1947 to undertake the mandate of the Assembly to "initiate studies and make recommendations for the purpose of? encouraging the progressive development of international law and its codification?.

The Statute of the International Law Commission provides that the Commission shall consist of 34 members "who shall be persons of recognised competence in international law."

The members of the Commission are to be elected by the General Assembly from a list of candidates nominated by the Governments of States Members of the United Nations.

Professor Bimal Patel, Vice-Chancellor of the Rashtriya Raksha University and Member of the National Security Advisory Board of India, has been elected to the International Law Commission for a five-year term, in a hard-fought election at the United Nations.

Professor Bimal Patel, Vice-Chancellor of the Rashtriya Raksha University and Member of the National Security Advisory Board of India, has been elected to the International Law Commission for a five-year term, in a hard-fought election at the United Nations. "Hearty felicitations to Prof Bimal Patel @RakshaUni for election to International Law Commission by topping the group," India's Permanent Representative to the UN Ambassador T S Tirumurti tweeted on Friday, thanking all UN member states for overwhelming support to India's candidature. Patel, 51, garnered 163 votes in the UN General Assembly out of 192 members present and voting, topping the Asia-Pacific group that included candidates from China, South Korea and Japan. He will serve a five-year term starting January 1, 2023. In the Asia-Pacific group, there were 11 very strong candidates vying for 8 seats, making the election hotly-contested. "Professor Bimal Patel of India is elected to the ILC for a 5-year term. Our contribution to ILC will reflect the commitment to uphold rules-based international order, underpinned by Rule Of Law," India's Permanent Mission to the UN tweeted, in the backdrop of growing global concern over China's military muscle-flexing in the Indo-Pacific region. "Heartfelt gratitude to all countries who reposed their trust in India's candidate with highest votes in Asia-Pacific Group," the mission said. Professor Bimal Patel of 🇮🇳 is elected to the #ILC for a 5 year term. Our contribution to #ILC will reflect the commitment to uphold rules-based international order, underpinned by #RuleOfLaw pic.twitter.com/4MG953GQQW — India at UN, NY (@IndiaUNNewYork) November 12, 2021 × India topped the group with 163 votes for Patel, followed by 162 votes for Thailand, 154 for Japan, 145 for Vietnam. China could manage 142 votes, followed by 140 for South Korea, 139 for Cyprus and 123 for Mongolia. China is engaged in hotly contested territorial disputes in the South and East China Seas. Beijing has also made substantial progress in militarising its man-made islands in the past few years. Beijing claims almost all of the 1.3 million square-mile South China Sea as its sovereign territory. China has been building military bases on artificial islands in the region which, in parts, is claimed by Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan and Vietnam. Beijing has impeded commercial activity like fishing and mineral exploration by neighbouring nations in recent years, saying the ownership of the resource-rich maritime territory belongs to China for hundreds of years. Patel is an esteemed educationalist, jurist and administrator and during his professional career of over three decades, he has served in various roles such as the Director at the Gujarat National Law University and member of the 21st Law Commission of India. He has worked for 15 years at global organisations such as the United Nations of Youth and the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) at the Hague, Netherlands, according to his profile on the Rashtriya Raksha University website. The International Law Commission was established by the General Assembly in 1947 to undertake the mandate of the Assembly to "initiate studies and make recommendations for the purpose of? encouraging the progressive development of international law and its codification?. The Statute of the International Law Commission provides that the Commission shall consist of 34 members "who shall be persons of recognised competence in international law." The members of the Commission are to be elected by the General Assembly from a list of candidates nominated by the Governments of States Members of the United Nations.

India's Bimal Patel elected to UN's International Law Commission for 5-yr term

The annual 2+2 ministerial dialogue between India and United States will take place in December.

India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar and defence&nbsp;minister Rajnath Singh will travel to Washington for the meeting.&nbsp; Three&nbsp;rounds of&nbsp;dialogue have taken place between the two sides so far in September 2018,&nbsp;December 2019 and&nbsp;in October last year. The December dialogue will be the fourth meeting between the two sides. The dates for the dialogue are&nbsp;still being finalised.&nbsp;

The 2+2 meet is an annual mechanism at the foreign and defence&nbsp;ministries level between India and the US meant to&nbsp;discuss&nbsp;bilateral ties in defence, strategic and security domains.

The inaugural India-US&nbsp;ministerial 2+2 dialogue was held on September 6, 2018 in New Delhi in which the then US secretary of state Michael R. Pompeo and secretary of defence&nbsp;James N. Mattis had visited India to hold dialogue with EAM late Sushma Swaraj and former defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman.

India has 2+2 mechanism at foreign and defence ministers' level with four&nbsp;countries - US, Japan, Australia and Russia. Russia is the only non-Quad member with which India has this mechanism. The maidan Indo-Russia 2+2 is expected to meet soon.

The India-US 2+2 meet will come in the month that will see the visit of Russian President&nbsp;Vladimir Putin to India for the annual India Russia summit.

WION first broke the news of the Russian President coming to Delhi on December 6. Relations between Moscow and Washington are frayed currently due to multiple factors. Putin's visit will coincide with the delivery of S-400 missiles to India&nbsp;that could attract US's CAATSA -&nbsp;Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA) sanctions.&nbsp;

However, it&nbsp;depends on the US Congress&nbsp;on whether there will&nbsp;there be a waiver for India. Saturday saw a US Congressional delegation meeting Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The US Congressional delegation was led by Senator John Cornyn and included Senator Michael Crapo, Senator Thomas Tuberville, Senator Michael Lee, Congressman Tony Gonzales and Congressman John Kevin Elizey. Senator John Cornyn is the co-founder and co-chair of the Senate Caucus&nbsp;on India and Indian-Americans.

A release by Indian PMO said, "Prime Minister appreciated the consistent support and constructive role of the US Congress in deepening the India-US comprehensive global strategic partnership which is anchored in shared democratic values."

They had "warm and frank discussion on regional issues" including those related to South Asia and the Indo Pacific, the release stated, explaining that the PM and the visiting delegation "noted the increasing convergence of strategic interests between the two strategic partners and expressed the desire to further enhance cooperation with an aim to promote global peace and stability.

Earlier this year, PM Modi had visited the US and had held&nbsp;bilateral talks with US President Joe Biden in Washington.&nbsp;The relationship has also enjoyed strong bipartisan support in the US Congress. The India Caucus in the US Congress&nbsp;is the largest single-country Caucus with over 150 members.

The annual 2+2 ministerial dialogue between India and United States will take place in December. India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar and defence minister Rajnath Singh will travel to Washington for the meeting.

The annual 2+2 ministerial dialogue between India and United States will take place in December. India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar and defence minister Rajnath Singh will travel to Washington for the meeting. Three rounds of dialogue have taken place between the two sides so far in September 2018, December 2019 and in October last year. The December dialogue will be the fourth meeting between the two sides. The dates for the dialogue are still being finalised. The 2+2 meet is an annual mechanism at the foreign and defence ministries level between India and the US meant to discuss bilateral ties in defence, strategic and security domains. The inaugural India-US ministerial 2+2 dialogue was held on September 6, 2018 in New Delhi in which the then US secretary of state Michael R. Pompeo and secretary of defence James N. Mattis had visited India to hold dialogue with EAM late Sushma Swaraj and former defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman. India has 2+2 mechanism at foreign and defence ministers' level with four countries - US, Japan, Australia and Russia. Russia is the only non-Quad member with which India has this mechanism. The maidan Indo-Russia 2+2 is expected to meet soon. The India-US 2+2 meet will come in the month that will see the visit of Russian President Vladimir Putin to India for the annual India Russia summit. WION first broke the news of the Russian President coming to Delhi on December 6. Relations between Moscow and Washington are frayed currently due to multiple factors. Putin's visit will coincide with the delivery of S-400 missiles to India that could attract US's CAATSA - Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA) sanctions. However, it depends on the US Congress on whether there will there be a waiver for India. Saturday saw a US Congressional delegation meeting Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The US Congressional delegation was led by Senator John Cornyn and included Senator Michael Crapo, Senator Thomas Tuberville, Senator Michael Lee, Congressman Tony Gonzales and Congressman John Kevin Elizey. Senator John Cornyn is the co-founder and co-chair of the Senate Caucus on India and Indian-Americans. A release by Indian PMO said, "Prime Minister appreciated the consistent support and constructive role of the US Congress in deepening the India-US comprehensive global strategic partnership which is anchored in shared democratic values." They had "warm and frank discussion on regional issues" including those related to South Asia and the Indo Pacific, the release stated, explaining that the PM and the visiting delegation "noted the increasing convergence of strategic interests between the two strategic partners and expressed the desire to further enhance cooperation with an aim to promote global peace and stability. Earlier this year, PM Modi had visited the US and had held bilateral talks with US President Joe Biden in Washington. The relationship has also enjoyed strong bipartisan support in the US Congress. The India Caucus in the US Congress is the largest single-country Caucus with over 150 members.

India, US ties: 2+2 meet in December; US Congressional delegation meets PM Modi

the deteriorating air quality in and around the Indian capital has become a matter of high concern. A layer of eye-stinging smog continues for the 8th day. The govt. has put out an advisory for people living in Delhi NCR regions.

Delhi: Layer of eye-stinging smog continues for 8th day

The Indian and Thai navies on Friday began a three-day coordinated patrol in the Andaman Sea amid growing concern over China's increasing maritime forays into the Indian Ocean region.

The Indian Navy's indigenously built missile corvette Karmuk and Thailand's Khamrosin class anti-submarine patrol vessel Tayanchon along with maritime patrol aircraft from both navies are participating in the coordinated patrol (CORPAT), officials said.

The two navies have been bi-annually undertaking CORPAT along their international maritime boundary line (IMBL) since 2005 with an aim to keep the vital part of the Indian Ocean safe and secure for global trade, Indian Navy Spokesperson Commander Vivek Madhwal said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/govt-wades-into-char-dham-road-project-debate-says-army-cant-fight-war-on-inhospitable-terrains-428723" hreflang="en">Need wider roads for Army to move missiles up to Indo-China border: Govt to SC</a>

"The CORPAT builds up understanding and interoperability between navies and facilitates institution of measures to prevent and suppress unlawful activities like illegal unreported unregulated (IUU) fishing, drug trafficking, maritime terrorism, armed robbery, and piracy," he said.

The official said it further helps enhance the operational synergy by exchange of information for the prevention of smuggling, illegal immigration, and for conduct of search and rescue (SAR) operations at sea.

"The 32nd Indo-Thai CORPAT will contribute towards Indian Navy's efforts to consolidate inter-operability and forge strong bonds of friendship between India and Thailand," Commander Madhwal said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/shows-their-attitude-india-slams-pak-for-skipping-nsa-meet-on-afghanistan-issue-428500" hreflang="en">‘Shows their attitude’: India slams Pak for skipping NSA meet on Afghanistan</a>

The Indian Navy has been gradually expanding its presence in the Indian Ocean region in the last few years.

Notwithstanding the coronavirus pandemic, the Indian Navy participated in maritime exercises in the last few months with a number of countries.

Last month, India held the Malabar exercise that was also participated by the navies of the US, Japan, and Australia.

India invited Australia for the exercise last year as well as this year effectively making it a drill by all the Quad member nations.

The Quad, comprising India, the US, Australia, and Japan, is aimed at ensuring a free and open Indo-Pacific, a region that witnessed increasing Chinese military assertiveness in recent years.

China has been suspicious about the purpose of the Malabar exercise as it feels that the annual war game is an effort to contain its influence in the Indo-Pacific region.&nbsp;

The Indian and Thai navies on Friday began a three-day coordinated patrol in the Andaman Sea amid growing concern over China's increasing maritime forays into the Indian Ocean region.

The Indian and Thai navies on Friday began a three-day coordinated patrol in the Andaman Sea amid growing concern over China's increasing maritime forays into the Indian Ocean region. The Indian Navy's indigenously built missile corvette Karmuk and Thailand's Khamrosin class anti-submarine patrol vessel Tayanchon along with maritime patrol aircraft from both navies are participating in the coordinated patrol (CORPAT), officials said. The two navies have been bi-annually undertaking CORPAT along their international maritime boundary line (IMBL) since 2005 with an aim to keep the vital part of the Indian Ocean safe and secure for global trade, Indian Navy Spokesperson Commander Vivek Madhwal said. Also read | Need wider roads for Army to move missiles up to Indo-China border: Govt to SC "The CORPAT builds up understanding and interoperability between navies and facilitates institution of measures to prevent and suppress unlawful activities like illegal unreported unregulated (IUU) fishing, drug trafficking, maritime terrorism, armed robbery, and piracy," he said. The official said it further helps enhance the operational synergy by exchange of information for the prevention of smuggling, illegal immigration, and for conduct of search and rescue (SAR) operations at sea. "The 32nd Indo-Thai CORPAT will contribute towards Indian Navy's efforts to consolidate inter-operability and forge strong bonds of friendship between India and Thailand," Commander Madhwal said. Also read | ‘Shows their attitude’: India slams Pak for skipping NSA meet on Afghanistan The Indian Navy has been gradually expanding its presence in the Indian Ocean region in the last few years. Notwithstanding the coronavirus pandemic, the Indian Navy participated in maritime exercises in the last few months with a number of countries. Last month, India held the Malabar exercise that was also participated by the navies of the US, Japan, and Australia. India invited Australia for the exercise last year as well as this year effectively making it a drill by all the Quad member nations. The Quad, comprising India, the US, Australia, and Japan, is aimed at ensuring a free and open Indo-Pacific, a region that witnessed increasing Chinese military assertiveness in recent years. China has been suspicious about the purpose of the Malabar exercise as it feels that the annual war game is an effort to contain its influence in the Indo-Pacific region.

India and Thai navies begin three-day coordinated patrol in Andaman Sea

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