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The Indian Air Force and Indian Army on Wednesday commemorated the 75th ‘Infantry Day’ when the Indian armed forces arrived in Srinagar to repel attacks from Pakistan, after Jammu and Kashmir (J&amp;K) decided to join the Indian union.

It was on this day 75 years ago in 1947 that the air force first landed in Budgam to thwart Pakistani militants from entering the Indian territory to stoke up secessionist movement following the partition of India.

October 27 is celebrated as the ‘Infantry Day’ by the Indian Army to commemorate the arrival of the Indian Army at Badgam Airfield to protect Jammu &amp; Kashmir after the ‘Instrument of Accession’ was signed on 26 October 1947 between the erstwhile king of J&amp;K Maharaja Hari Singh and the Republic of India.

The Badgam landings were the first military operations of independent India when the Indian Army was inducted by the Indian Air Force at Budgam Airport on 27 October 1947,&nbsp;said the Indian army.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/opinion-october-22-1947-the-black-day-of-pakistani-atrocities-in-kashmir-422884">Opinion | October 22, 1947, the black day of Pakistani atrocities in Kashmir</a>

“On this historic occasion, on 75 years of Budgam landing, in which after the Instrument of Accession was signed, we moved in quickly our troops. Srinagar airfield was saved and thereafter we could launch a further offensive and push the Pakistan military, which came as kabailis, further back,” Air Marshal Amit Dev said.

“I am sure, if the UN had not intervened, perhaps the entire Kashmir would have been ours. It was not only IAF and Army's participation in Budgam but there have been many small missions that have resulted in ensuring the freedom of free Kashmir. I'm sure someday PoK (Pakistan occupied Kashmir) will join this part of Kashmir and we'll have whole Kashmir in years to come,” he added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/watch-taliban-will-help-pakistan-conquer-kashmir-leader-of-imran-khans-party-408045">Taliban will help Pakistan conquer Kashmir: Leader of Imran Khan’s party</a>

The replication of the historic event was organised at Old Air Field to pay tribute to the soldiers and people of Jammu &amp; Kashmir who laid down their lives, and also to honour the next of kin of war heroes who participated in the 1947-48 War.&nbsp;

The event was attended by Jammu &amp; Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, Air Marshal Amit Dev, Air Officer Commanding-In-Chief, Western Air Command, Lieutenant General Devendra Pratap Pandey, General Officer Commanding 15 Corps along with several other civil and military dignitaries.&nbsp;

“The first Sikh, under the command of Lieutenant Colonel Dewan Ranjit Rai, who later laid down his life at Baramulla, changed the course of the war, wherein people and soldiers of Jammu &amp; Kashmir and the Indian Army fought valiantly alongside to evict Pakistani Forces, driving them out of most of Jammu &amp; Kashmir till ceasefire on 05 January 1949,'' said the Indian Army.&nbsp;

The Indian Army also unveiled a war memorial at Srinagar Airport.

The memorial commemorates the arrival of Indian Army in Indian Air Force at Srinagar Airport in 1947, and the role played by Major Somnath Sharma, Param Vir Chakra, Brigadier Rajinder Singh, Maha Vir Chakra and Maqbool Sherwani in India’s historic victory in its first war after independence.&nbsp;

The Indian Air Force and Indian Army on Wednesday commemorated the 75th ‘Infantry Day’ when the Indian armed forces arrived in Srinagar to repel attacks from Pakistan, after Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) decided to join the Indian union.

The Indian Air Force and Indian Army on Wednesday commemorated the 75th ‘Infantry Day’ when the Indian armed forces arrived in Srinagar to repel attacks from Pakistan, after Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) decided to join the Indian union. It was on this day 75 years ago in 1947 that the air force first landed in Budgam to thwart Pakistani militants from entering the Indian territory to stoke up secessionist movement following the partition of India. October 27 is celebrated as the ‘Infantry Day’ by the Indian Army to commemorate the arrival of the Indian Army at Badgam Airfield to protect Jammu & Kashmir after the ‘Instrument of Accession’ was signed on 26 October 1947 between the erstwhile king of J&K Maharaja Hari Singh and the Republic of India. The Badgam landings were the first military operations of independent India when the Indian Army was inducted by the Indian Air Force at Budgam Airport on 27 October 1947, said the Indian army. Also read | Opinion | October 22, 1947, the black day of Pakistani atrocities in Kashmir “On this historic occasion, on 75 years of Budgam landing, in which after the Instrument of Accession was signed, we moved in quickly our troops. Srinagar airfield was saved and thereafter we could launch a further offensive and push the Pakistan military, which came as kabailis, further back,” Air Marshal Amit Dev said. “I am sure, if the UN had not intervened, perhaps the entire Kashmir would have been ours. It was not only IAF and Army's participation in Budgam but there have been many small missions that have resulted in ensuring the freedom of free Kashmir. I'm sure someday PoK (Pakistan occupied Kashmir) will join this part of Kashmir and we'll have whole Kashmir in years to come,” he added. Also read | Taliban will help Pakistan conquer Kashmir: Leader of Imran Khan’s party The replication of the historic event was organised at Old Air Field to pay tribute to the soldiers and people of Jammu & Kashmir who laid down their lives, and also to honour the next of kin of war heroes who participated in the 1947-48 War. The event was attended by Jammu & Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, Air Marshal Amit Dev, Air Officer Commanding-In-Chief, Western Air Command, Lieutenant General Devendra Pratap Pandey, General Officer Commanding 15 Corps along with several other civil and military dignitaries. “The first Sikh, under the command of Lieutenant Colonel Dewan Ranjit Rai, who later laid down his life at Baramulla, changed the course of the war, wherein people and soldiers of Jammu & Kashmir and the Indian Army fought valiantly alongside to evict Pakistani Forces, driving them out of most of Jammu & Kashmir till ceasefire on 05 January 1949,'' said the Indian Army. The Indian Army also unveiled a war memorial at Srinagar Airport. The memorial commemorates the arrival of Indian Army in Indian Air Force at Srinagar Airport in 1947, and the role played by Major Somnath Sharma, Param Vir Chakra, Brigadier Rajinder Singh, Maha Vir Chakra and Maqbool Sherwani in India’s historic victory in its first war after independence.

‘Someday, Pakistan occupied Kashmir will join India’, says Air Force official on 75th 'Infantry Day’

Just days after China passed the land boundary law, the Indian government said China still hasn't resolved the "boundary question".&nbsp;

"We have noted that China has passed a new land boundary law on October 23. The law states among other things that China abides by treaties concluded with or jointly acceded to by foreign countries on land boundary affairs," the Indian government said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-new-law-seeks-to-strengthen-border-defence-423602">Also Read:&nbsp;China's new law seeks to 'strengthen border defence'</a>

"It also has provisions to carry out reorganisation of districts in the border areas," the government informed.

China's land boundary law states that its sovereignty and territorial integrity is "sacred and inviolable" as it emphasised the "principle of equality, mutual trust and friendly consultation while handling land border related-affairs with neighbouring countries through negotiations to properly resolve disputes and longstanding border issues."

The Indian government however expressed "concern" over China’s "unilateral decision" to bring forward the&nbsp;legislation which it said has "implication on our existing bilateral arrangements on border management as well as on the boundary question."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-installs-new-shelters-for-troops-near-indias-ladakh-border-416417">Also Read:&nbsp;China installs new shelters for troops near India's Ladakh border</a>

"Such unilateral move will have no bearing on the arrangements that both sides have already reached earlier," the Indian government said, adding, "Whether it is on the boundary question or for maintaining peace and tranquillity along the LAC in India-China border areas."

The Indian government added that the new law does not "confer any legitimacy to the so-called China Pakistan boundary agreement of 1963". The government said it "consistently maintains" the agreement is an &nbsp;"illegal and invalid agreement".&nbsp;

The Indian government added that China should "avoid undertaking action" under the "pretext of the new law which could unilaterally alter the situation in the India-China border areas."

China has been involved in a standoff with India since May last year along the Line of Actual Control(LAC).&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chinese-air-force-still-deployed-at-three-airbases-facing-ladakh-air-chief-marshal-v-r-chaudhari-418589">Also Read:&nbsp;Chinese Air Force still deployed at three airbases facing Ladakh: IAF</a>

The tensions had led to clashes at Galwan Valley between China's PLA soldiers and the Indian Army in which 20 Indian soldiers were killed including four&nbsp;Chinese troops although reports claimed the casualties on the Chinese side was much higher.

In early this year, China had announced disengagement at the border, however, Chinese troops have reportedly continued to build roads and fortifications along the LAC and stationed heavy equipment.&nbsp;

(With inputs from Agencies) 
&nbsp;

Just days after China passed the land boundary law, the Indian government said China still hasn't resolved the "boundary question". "We have noted that China has passed a new land boundary law on October 23.

Just days after China passed the land boundary law, the Indian government said China still hasn't resolved the "boundary question". "We have noted that China has passed a new land boundary law on October 23. The law states among other things that China abides by treaties concluded with or jointly acceded to by foreign countries on land boundary affairs," the Indian government said. Also Read: China's new law seeks to 'strengthen border defence' "It also has provisions to carry out reorganisation of districts in the border areas," the government informed. China's land boundary law states that its sovereignty and territorial integrity is "sacred and inviolable" as it emphasised the "principle of equality, mutual trust and friendly consultation while handling land border related-affairs with neighbouring countries through negotiations to properly resolve disputes and longstanding border issues." The Indian government however expressed "concern" over China’s "unilateral decision" to bring forward the legislation which it said has "implication on our existing bilateral arrangements on border management as well as on the boundary question." Also Read: China installs new shelters for troops near India's Ladakh border "Such unilateral move will have no bearing on the arrangements that both sides have already reached earlier," the Indian government said, adding, "Whether it is on the boundary question or for maintaining peace and tranquillity along the LAC in India-China border areas." The Indian government added that the new law does not "confer any legitimacy to the so-called China Pakistan boundary agreement of 1963". The government said it "consistently maintains" the agreement is an "illegal and invalid agreement". The Indian government added that China should "avoid undertaking action" under the "pretext of the new law which could unilaterally alter the situation in the India-China border areas." China has been involved in a standoff with India since May last year along the Line of Actual Control(LAC). Also Read: Chinese Air Force still deployed at three airbases facing Ladakh: IAF The tensions had led to clashes at Galwan Valley between China's PLA soldiers and the Indian Army in which 20 Indian soldiers were killed including four Chinese troops although reports claimed the casualties on the Chinese side was much higher. In early this year, China had announced disengagement at the border, however, Chinese troops have reportedly continued to build roads and fortifications along the LAC and stationed heavy equipment. (With inputs from Agencies)

Unilateral move, says India on China's new land boundary law

In a clear expression of his political ambitions, Tamil actor C Joseph Vijay met 129 of his fan club members who won in the recently-concluded rural local body elections in Tamil Nadu. While the actor himself did not campaign in the elections, his fan club members were permitted contest as independent candidates, while using the flag and the actor's picture when canvassing for votes.&nbsp;

Thalapathy Vijay Makkal Iyakkam(TVMI) is regarded as a fan club cum precursor to Vijay’s (possible) political party. 129 of the 169 candidates who contested as a part of TVMI had won in the polls, despite the actor not having. This is significant given how other actor-turned-politicians who also fielded their party candidates in the polls had a very dismal show.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/tamil-drama-koozhangal-is-indias-official-entry-for-oscars-2022-423529">Tamil drama 'Koozhangal' is India's official entry for Oscars 2022</a>

In a state where actor-turned-politicians and those with a background in the cinema industry have been elected to the position of Chief Minister, Vijay seems to be testing the waters for an impending foray. In contrast to many personalities who take the top-down approach and foray into politics using their personal brand and charisma, Vijay appears to be trying the reverse - building the party infrastructure from a grassroots level.&nbsp;

A statement issued by the TVMI, mentions that all candidates who emerged victorious met Vijay and sought his wishes. It was also added that these functionaries would highlight the basic problems faced by the people and help find solutions for the same, with the support of the State and Central governments.&nbsp;

When queried about the meeting that Vijay held with the functionaries, N. Anand, General Secretary, TVMI told Zee Media that the actor checked all the certificates of the winning candidates and urged them to work for the people. He also met everyone individually and spoke to each of us for a couple of minutes, he added. Asked specifically about whether Vijay harbors intentions to foray into politics, Anand replied that he wasn’t aware and that he’d have to check with the Actor.&nbsp;

In a clear expression of his political ambitions, Tamil actor C Joseph Vijay met 129 of his fan club members who won in the recently-concluded rural local body elections in Tamil Nadu.

In a clear expression of his political ambitions, Tamil actor C Joseph Vijay met 129 of his fan club members who won in the recently-concluded rural local body elections in Tamil Nadu. While the actor himself did not campaign in the elections, his fan club members were permitted contest as independent candidates, while using the flag and the actor's picture when canvassing for votes. Thalapathy Vijay Makkal Iyakkam(TVMI) is regarded as a fan club cum precursor to Vijay’s (possible) political party. 129 of the 169 candidates who contested as a part of TVMI had won in the polls, despite the actor not having. This is significant given how other actor-turned-politicians who also fielded their party candidates in the polls had a very dismal show. Also Read | Tamil drama 'Koozhangal' is India's official entry for Oscars 2022 In a state where actor-turned-politicians and those with a background in the cinema industry have been elected to the position of Chief Minister, Vijay seems to be testing the waters for an impending foray. In contrast to many personalities who take the top-down approach and foray into politics using their personal brand and charisma, Vijay appears to be trying the reverse - building the party infrastructure from a grassroots level. A statement issued by the TVMI, mentions that all candidates who emerged victorious met Vijay and sought his wishes. It was also added that these functionaries would highlight the basic problems faced by the people and help find solutions for the same, with the support of the State and Central governments. When queried about the meeting that Vijay held with the functionaries, N. Anand, General Secretary, TVMI told Zee Media that the actor checked all the certificates of the winning candidates and urged them to work for the people. He also met everyone individually and spoke to each of us for a couple of minutes, he added. Asked specifically about whether Vijay harbors intentions to foray into politics, Anand replied that he wasn’t aware and that he’d have to check with the Actor.

Vijay’s teaser for political foray? Actor meets fans who won rural local body polls

An earthquake of magnitude 4.0 on the Richter scale hit the Diglipur area of Andaman and Nicobar Islands on Wednesday morning.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/65-magnitude-earthquake-strikes-taiwan-no-casualties-423532">6.5-magnitude earthquake strikes Taiwan; no casualties</a>

The National Center for Seismology (NCS) informed that the earthquake took place at a depth of 80 kilometres and 90 kilometres South-South-East of Diglipur.

"Earthquake of Magnitude: 4.0, Occurred on 27-10-2021, 04:56:37 IST, Lat: 12.54 and Long: 93.36, Depth: 80 Km, Location: 90 km SSE of Diglipur, Andaman and Nicobar Island, India," tweeted NCS. More details are awaited.

An earthquake of magnitude 4.0 on the Richter scale hit the Diglipur area of Andaman and Nicobar Islands on Wednesday morning. Also Read | 6.5-magnitude earthquake strikes Taiwan; no casualties The National Center for Seismology (NCS) informed that the earthquake took place at a depth of 80 kilometres and 90 kilometres South-South-East of Diglipur.

An earthquake of magnitude 4.0 on the Richter scale hit the Diglipur area of Andaman and Nicobar Islands on Wednesday morning. Also Read | 6.5-magnitude earthquake strikes Taiwan; no casualties The National Center for Seismology (NCS) informed that the earthquake took place at a depth of 80 kilometres and 90 kilometres South-South-East of Diglipur. "Earthquake of Magnitude: 4.0, Occurred on 27-10-2021, 04:56:37 IST, Lat: 12.54 and Long: 93.36, Depth: 80 Km, Location: 90 km SSE of Diglipur, Andaman and Nicobar Island, India," tweeted NCS. More details are awaited.

Earthquake of magnitude 4.0 hits India's Andaman and Nicobar Islands

Two US&nbsp;senators have urged President Joe Biden to waive sanctions against India over its purchase of Russia's S-400 air defence system, saying such a punitive measure would endanger growing cooperation.

India signed a $5.5 billion deal with Russia in 2018 for five of the surface-to-air missile systems for defence against long-time adversary Pakistan and China, with which it is locked in a standoff on their disputed border.

But the proposed transfer has caused friction with the United States, which passed a law in 2017 under which any country engaged with Russia's defence and intelligence sectors could face sanctions.

Republican Senator John Corny and Democrat Senator Mark Warner wrote a letter to Biden on Tuesday calling for a waiver on the grounds of national security and broader cooperation.

"We believe there is a national security imperative to waiving sanctions," the senators said in their letter which they issued in a press release.

They said they were concerned the transfer of the Russian systems would trigger sanctions against India under the Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA), which was enacted to hold Russia accountable for interfering in US&nbsp;elections, cyber hacking and bullying Ukraine.

India has made a down payment on the S-400 air defence systems and the first set of missile batteries is expected to begin deployment later this year.

Alos Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/abraham-accords-dividend-india-us-uae-israel-foreign-ministers-to-hold-meeting-421701">Abraham Accords dividend: India, US, UAE &amp; Israel foreign ministers to hold meeting</a>

The United States imposed sanctions on Turkey for buying the same equipment last year.

Cornyn and Warner, who are co-chairs of a Senate India Caucus, said they shared the administration's concerns about Russia but they warned of damage to cooperation with India if sanctions were to be imposed.

"We believe that the application of CAATSA sanctions could have a deleterious effect on a strategic partnership with India, while at the same time, not achieve the intended purpose of deterring Russian arms sales," they wrote.

India has been cutting back on purchases of military equipment from Russia, which for years was its main source, with a 53 per cent&nbsp;drop in Russian arms exports to India from 2016 to 2020 compared with the preceding five-year period.

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India's defence deals with the United States, on the other hand, have been increasing with sales at $3.4 billion in 2020 financial year. These are positive trends, the senators said.

"Imposing sanctions at this time could derail deepening cooperation with India across all aspects of our bilateral relationship – from vaccines to defence cooperation, from energy strategy to technology sharing."

Two US senators have urged President Joe Biden to waive sanctions against India over its purchase of Russia's S-400 air defence system, saying such a punitive measure would endanger growing cooperation.

Two US senators have urged President Joe Biden to waive sanctions against India over its purchase of Russia's S-400 air defence system, saying such a punitive measure would endanger growing cooperation. India signed a $5.5 billion deal with Russia in 2018 for five of the surface-to-air missile systems for defence against long-time adversary Pakistan and China, with which it is locked in a standoff on their disputed border. But the proposed transfer has caused friction with the United States, which passed a law in 2017 under which any country engaged with Russia's defence and intelligence sectors could face sanctions. Republican Senator John Corny and Democrat Senator Mark Warner wrote a letter to Biden on Tuesday calling for a waiver on the grounds of national security and broader cooperation. "We believe there is a national security imperative to waiving sanctions," the senators said in their letter which they issued in a press release. They said they were concerned the transfer of the Russian systems would trigger sanctions against India under the Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA), which was enacted to hold Russia accountable for interfering in US elections, cyber hacking and bullying Ukraine. India has made a down payment on the S-400 air defence systems and the first set of missile batteries is expected to begin deployment later this year. Alos Read | Abraham Accords dividend: India, US, UAE & Israel foreign ministers to hold meeting The United States imposed sanctions on Turkey for buying the same equipment last year. Cornyn and Warner, who are co-chairs of a Senate India Caucus, said they shared the administration's concerns about Russia but they warned of damage to cooperation with India if sanctions were to be imposed. "We believe that the application of CAATSA sanctions could have a deleterious effect on a strategic partnership with India, while at the same time, not achieve the intended purpose of deterring Russian arms sales," they wrote. India has been cutting back on purchases of military equipment from Russia, which for years was its main source, with a 53 per cent drop in Russian arms exports to India from 2016 to 2020 compared with the preceding five-year period. Also Read | US senator asks Facebook CEO to retain documents linked to testimony India's defence deals with the United States, on the other hand, have been increasing with sales at $3.4 billion in 2020 financial year. These are positive trends, the senators said. "Imposing sanctions at this time could derail deepening cooperation with India across all aspects of our bilateral relationship – from vaccines to defence cooperation, from energy strategy to technology sharing."

US senators urge Biden to avoid India sanctions over Russian deal

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to attend the 16th East Asia Summit on Wednesday, Prime Minister's Office said in a press release.

As per the official release, the Prime Minister is also scheduled to attend the 18th ASEAN-India Summit on Thursday.

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The East Asia Summit is the premier leaders-led forum in the Indo-Pacific. Since its inception in 2005, it has played a significant role in the strategic and geopolitical evolution of East Asia.

Apart from the 10 ASEAN Member states, East Asia Summit includes India, China, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Australia, New Zealand, the United States and Russia, the release added.

India, being a founding member of the East Asia Summit, is committed to strengthening the East Asia Summit and making it more effective for dealing with contemporary challenges, the release read.

On Thursday, PM Modi will review the status of the ASEAN-India Strategic Partnership at the 18th ASEAN-India Summit.

He is participating in the summit at the invitation of the Sultan of Brunei.

Prime Minister will take stock of progress made in key areas including COVID-19, health, trade and commerce, connectivity, and education and culture. Important regional and international developments including post-pandemic economic recovery will also be discussed.

ASEAN-India summits are held annually and provide the opportunity for India and ASEAN to engage at the highest level.

PM Modi attended the 17th ASEAN-India Summit held virtually in November last year. The latest edition will be the ninth ASEAN-India Summit to be attended by him.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-asean-virtual-summit-with-eye-on-china-joe-biden-reiterates-need-for-free-indo-pacific-424227">US-ASEAN virtual summit: With eye on China, Joe Biden reiterates need for free Indo-Pacific</a>

ASEAN-India Strategic Partnership stands on a strong foundation of shared geographical, historical and civilizational ties. ASEAN is central to our Act East Policy and our wider vision of the Indo-Pacific. The year 2022 will mark 30 years of ASEAN-India relations.

India and ASEAN have several dialogue mechanisms which meet regularly, including a Summit, Ministerial meetings and Senior Officials&nbsp;meetings. External Affairs Minister, Dr S Jaishankar attended the ASEAN-India Foreign Ministers&nbsp;Meeting and EAS Foreign Ministers&nbsp;Meeting in August 2021 virtually.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to attend the 16th East Asia Summit on Wednesday, Prime Minister's Office said in a press release. As per the official release, the Prime Minister is also scheduled to attend the 18th ASEAN-India Summit on Thursday.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to attend the 16th East Asia Summit on Wednesday, Prime Minister's Office said in a press release. As per the official release, the Prime Minister is also scheduled to attend the 18th ASEAN-India Summit on Thursday. Also Read | PM Modi to visit Italy for G20 later this month The East Asia Summit is the premier leaders-led forum in the Indo-Pacific. Since its inception in 2005, it has played a significant role in the strategic and geopolitical evolution of East Asia. Apart from the 10 ASEAN Member states, East Asia Summit includes India, China, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Australia, New Zealand, the United States and Russia, the release added. India, being a founding member of the East Asia Summit, is committed to strengthening the East Asia Summit and making it more effective for dealing with contemporary challenges, the release read. On Thursday, PM Modi will review the status of the ASEAN-India Strategic Partnership at the 18th ASEAN-India Summit. He is participating in the summit at the invitation of the Sultan of Brunei. Prime Minister will take stock of progress made in key areas including COVID-19, health, trade and commerce, connectivity, and education and culture. Important regional and international developments including post-pandemic economic recovery will also be discussed. ASEAN-India summits are held annually and provide the opportunity for India and ASEAN to engage at the highest level. PM Modi attended the 17th ASEAN-India Summit held virtually in November last year. The latest edition will be the ninth ASEAN-India Summit to be attended by him. Also Read | US-ASEAN virtual summit: With eye on China, Joe Biden reiterates need for free Indo-Pacific ASEAN-India Strategic Partnership stands on a strong foundation of shared geographical, historical and civilizational ties. ASEAN is central to our Act East Policy and our wider vision of the Indo-Pacific. The year 2022 will mark 30 years of ASEAN-India relations. India and ASEAN have several dialogue mechanisms which meet regularly, including a Summit, Ministerial meetings and Senior Officials meetings. External Affairs Minister, Dr S Jaishankar attended the ASEAN-India Foreign Ministers Meeting and EAS Foreign Ministers Meeting in August 2021 virtually.

Indian PM Modi to attend 16th East Asia, 18th ASEAN-India summits

In the last 24 hours, India registered 12,428 new COVID-19 cases, the lowest in 238 days, the Union Health Ministry said on Tuesday. 
 
In the same period, 356 new fatalities were reported, which increased the death toll to 4,55,068.

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The recovery of 15,951 patients in the last 24 hours has increased the cumulative tally to 3,35,83,318. Consequently, India's recovery rate stands at 98.19 per cent, currently at its highest peak since March 2020.

The active caseload stands at 1,63,816, which is the lowest in 241 days.

Active cases presently constitute 0.48 per cent of the country's total positive cases, the lowest since March 2020.

Also in the same period, a total of 11,31,826 tests were conducted across the country.

India has so far conducted over 60.19 crore cumulative tests.

Meanwhile, the weekly positivity rate at 1.24 per cent has remained less than 2 per cent for the last 32 days now.

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The daily positivity rate stands at 1.10 per cent, which has also remained below 2 per cent for last 22 days and less than 3 per cent for 57 consecutive days now.

With the administration of 64,75,733 vaccine doses in the last 24 hours, India's covid inoculation coverage has reached 102.94 crore as of Tuesday morning,

This has been achieved through 1,02,28,502 sessions.

In the last 24 hours, India registered 12,428 new COVID-19 cases, the lowest in 238 days, the Union Health Ministry said on Tuesday. In the same period, 356 new fatalities were reported, which increased the death toll to 4,55,068.

In the last 24 hours, India registered 12,428 new COVID-19 cases, the lowest in 238 days, the Union Health Ministry said on Tuesday. In the same period, 356 new fatalities were reported, which increased the death toll to 4,55,068. Also Read | Pandemic will end when world chooses to end it, says WHO chief The recovery of 15,951 patients in the last 24 hours has increased the cumulative tally to 3,35,83,318. Consequently, India's recovery rate stands at 98.19 per cent, currently at its highest peak since March 2020. The active caseload stands at 1,63,816, which is the lowest in 241 days. Active cases presently constitute 0.48 per cent of the country's total positive cases, the lowest since March 2020. Also in the same period, a total of 11,31,826 tests were conducted across the country. India has so far conducted over 60.19 crore cumulative tests. Meanwhile, the weekly positivity rate at 1.24 per cent has remained less than 2 per cent for the last 32 days now. Also Read | Here’s why developing countries can make Covid mRNA vaccines The daily positivity rate stands at 1.10 per cent, which has also remained below 2 per cent for last 22 days and less than 3 per cent for 57 consecutive days now. With the administration of 64,75,733 vaccine doses in the last 24 hours, India's covid inoculation coverage has reached 102.94 crore as of Tuesday morning, This has been achieved through 1,02,28,502 sessions.

India logs 12,428 new Covid cases, lowest in 238 days

Union Minister of Finance and Corporate Affairs Nirmala Sitharaman participated in the 6th Annual Meeting of the Board of Governors of Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) via video conference on Tuesday.

Every year at the Annual Meeting, the Board of Governors meets to take key decisions on important matters relating to AIIB, and its future vision. India is a founding member and the second-largest shareholder in AIIB.India also has one of the largest project portfolios within AIIB.&nbsp;

This year`s annual meeting has been jointly organized by AIIB and the Government of the United Arab Emirates on the theme of "Investing Today and Transforming Tomorrow".The finance minister shared her thoughts in the Governor`s Roundtable Discussion on the theme "COVID-19 Crisis and Post-COVID Support".

Sitharaman appreciated AIIB`s prompt actions in providing financial support to Member Countries, including India, in their efforts to contain and combat COVID-19.The Finance Minister said that the social protection and economic stimulus packages brought out by the Government of India, along with timely structural reforms in various sectors, have been pivotal in India`s economic recovery process.

The stimulus packages, including the credit guarantee scheme for microfinance institutions, boosters for project exports through National Export Insurance Account, additional subsidies for fertilizers, free food grains for 800 million people under the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana, and several welfare schemes with a strong public health focus, helped to effectively and efficiently boost the economy and protect lives and livelihoods, especially of the poor and vulnerable.

Sitharaman emphasised the Government of India`s successful drive to rapidly vaccinate its citizens, administering over 1 billion vaccines - a milestone achieved with the help of the strong scientific and technological ecosystem in India.

The Finance Minister also highlighted India`s "Vaccine Maitri" initiative, a global health outreach, under which 70 million doses of the `Made in India` COVID-19 vaccines have been supplied to 95 countries and UN entities, including nearly 20 million doses to 47 countries under the COVAX facility and more than 12 million vaccine doses as a grant to 47 countries and UN peacekeepers.Sitharaman pointed out that the current crisis and the looming climate crisis have reinforced the importance of Multilateral Development Banks (MDBs) and the urgency for supplementing country efforts with multilateral development finance.&nbsp;

In this context, she highlighted some of the expectations from the Bank, including the need to explore investment opportunities in the creation and development of assets in social infrastructure sectors; to further intensify private sector capital mobilisation for inclusive and green development; and to set up a Resident Board and Regional Offices to ensure accountability, transparency and quality of operations and investments.

Sitharaman assured India`s cooperation and support to the AIIB for its future endeavours as a leading financial institution.&nbsp;

Union Minister of Finance and Corporate Affairs Nirmala Sitharaman participated in the 6th Annual Meeting of the Board of Governors of Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) via video conference on Tuesday.

Union Minister of Finance and Corporate Affairs Nirmala Sitharaman participated in the 6th Annual Meeting of the Board of Governors of Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) via video conference on Tuesday. Every year at the Annual Meeting, the Board of Governors meets to take key decisions on important matters relating to AIIB, and its future vision. India is a founding member and the second-largest shareholder in AIIB.India also has one of the largest project portfolios within AIIB. This year`s annual meeting has been jointly organized by AIIB and the Government of the United Arab Emirates on the theme of "Investing Today and Transforming Tomorrow".The finance minister shared her thoughts in the Governor`s Roundtable Discussion on the theme "COVID-19 Crisis and Post-COVID Support". Sitharaman appreciated AIIB`s prompt actions in providing financial support to Member Countries, including India, in their efforts to contain and combat COVID-19.The Finance Minister said that the social protection and economic stimulus packages brought out by the Government of India, along with timely structural reforms in various sectors, have been pivotal in India`s economic recovery process. The stimulus packages, including the credit guarantee scheme for microfinance institutions, boosters for project exports through National Export Insurance Account, additional subsidies for fertilizers, free food grains for 800 million people under the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana, and several welfare schemes with a strong public health focus, helped to effectively and efficiently boost the economy and protect lives and livelihoods, especially of the poor and vulnerable. Sitharaman emphasised the Government of India`s successful drive to rapidly vaccinate its citizens, administering over 1 billion vaccines - a milestone achieved with the help of the strong scientific and technological ecosystem in India. The Finance Minister also highlighted India`s "Vaccine Maitri" initiative, a global health outreach, under which 70 million doses of the `Made in India` COVID-19 vaccines have been supplied to 95 countries and UN entities, including nearly 20 million doses to 47 countries under the COVAX facility and more than 12 million vaccine doses as a grant to 47 countries and UN peacekeepers.Sitharaman pointed out that the current crisis and the looming climate crisis have reinforced the importance of Multilateral Development Banks (MDBs) and the urgency for supplementing country efforts with multilateral development finance. In this context, she highlighted some of the expectations from the Bank, including the need to explore investment opportunities in the creation and development of assets in social infrastructure sectors; to further intensify private sector capital mobilisation for inclusive and green development; and to set up a Resident Board and Regional Offices to ensure accountability, transparency and quality of operations and investments. Sitharaman assured India`s cooperation and support to the AIIB for its future endeavours as a leading financial institution.

Indian finance minister participates in AIIB board meet

Stuck in a village in southern India for nine months and unable to return to his job in Saudi Arabia, Sugathan PR&nbsp;is hoping the World Health Organization will approve the Indian COVID-19 shot Covaxin, paving the way for his trip back.

Like Sugathan, millions of Indians have taken Covaxin and many have complained of travel struggles as the vaccine has not been recognised for international travel by several countries.

"I cannot continue to remain idle here any further," said 57-year-old Sugathan, who returned to Pandalam village in Kerala in January to be with his family after missing his father's funeral last year when the pandemic disrupted flights.

"I had the option of going to Saudi and taking (additional doses of) Covishield after a four-day institutional quarantine, but I was not sure of its implications on my health," said Sugathan, referring to AstraZeneca's vaccine.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-to-administer-next-billion-vaccines-in-next-3-4-months-vaccine-panel-head-422967">India to administer next billion vaccines in next 3-4 months: Vaccine panel head</a>

"If the Covaxin approval does not come, I will take the risk of going and taking a Saudi-approved vaccine," he added, sitting in his spacious two-storey house fronted by paddy fields.

The WHO is expected to take a final call on an emergency-use listing for Covaxin on Tuesday.

It has deliberated on data supplied by manufacturer Bharat Biotech since early July but has said it could not "cut corners" in making a decision.

Without a WHO nod, the two-dose Covaxin is unlikely to be accepted as a valid vaccine globally and would complicate travel plans for Indians who have taken it.

Rajan Pallivadakethil Unnunni, 59, who worked in Kuwait as a welder for two decades before flying to India late last year, has been unable to go back as Kuwait does not recognise Covaxin.

He is now struggling to repay his $20,000 bank loan selling chicken at a small stall in Kerala and making $4 a day.

"If I cannot go back to Kuwait, I will not be able to repay the loan and complete the education of my children," said Rajan, seated on a plastic stool in front of his shop.

"I can buy a ticket to Kuwait only if the Kuwait government app shows a green signal."

Stuck in a village in southern India for nine months and unable to return to his job in Saudi Arabia, Sugathan PR is hoping the World Health Organization will approve the Indian COVID-19 shot Covaxin, paving the way for his trip back.

Stuck in a village in southern India for nine months and unable to return to his job in Saudi Arabia, Sugathan PR is hoping the World Health Organization will approve the Indian COVID-19 shot Covaxin, paving the way for his trip back. Like Sugathan, millions of Indians have taken Covaxin and many have complained of travel struggles as the vaccine has not been recognised for international travel by several countries. "I cannot continue to remain idle here any further," said 57-year-old Sugathan, who returned to Pandalam village in Kerala in January to be with his family after missing his father's funeral last year when the pandemic disrupted flights. "I had the option of going to Saudi and taking (additional doses of) Covishield after a four-day institutional quarantine, but I was not sure of its implications on my health," said Sugathan, referring to AstraZeneca's vaccine. Also Read | India to administer next billion vaccines in next 3-4 months: Vaccine panel head "If the Covaxin approval does not come, I will take the risk of going and taking a Saudi-approved vaccine," he added, sitting in his spacious two-storey house fronted by paddy fields. The WHO is expected to take a final call on an emergency-use listing for Covaxin on Tuesday. It has deliberated on data supplied by manufacturer Bharat Biotech since early July but has said it could not "cut corners" in making a decision. Without a WHO nod, the two-dose Covaxin is unlikely to be accepted as a valid vaccine globally and would complicate travel plans for Indians who have taken it. Rajan Pallivadakethil Unnunni, 59, who worked in Kuwait as a welder for two decades before flying to India late last year, has been unable to go back as Kuwait does not recognise Covaxin. He is now struggling to repay his $20,000 bank loan selling chicken at a small stall in Kerala and making $4 a day. "If I cannot go back to Kuwait, I will not be able to repay the loan and complete the education of my children," said Rajan, seated on a plastic stool in front of his shop. "I can buy a ticket to Kuwait only if the Kuwait government app shows a green signal."

Vaccinated but stuck: Indians await WHO nod for homegrown shot to travel abroad

The Modi government has a zero-tolerance policy towards terror, and while the situation has improved a lot in Jammu and Kashmir, "we should not be satisfied till total peace is achieved", Union Home Minister Amit Shah said on Monday.

Shah, who extended his three-day visit to Jammu and Kashmir, stayed for the night at the CRPF Campus in Lethpora in Pulwama where a suicide car bomb attack by Pakistan-sponsored terrorists in February 2019 had left 40 paramilitary personnel dead.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amit-shah-in-jk-for-first-visit-since-abrogation-of-article-370-meets-slain-cops-family-423383">Amit Shah in J&amp;K for first visit since abrogation of Article 370; meets slain cop's family</a>

"I want to spend one night with you people and understand your problems," Shah said addressing the security personnel at the CRPF campus, adding it was his "most important" engagement during his visit to the Union territory.

Shah said that the law and order situation has improved a lot in Jammu and Kashmir, adding that he was hopeful "we will be able to realise a peaceful Jammu and Kashmir as envisaged by Prime Minister Modi during our lifetime".

"Stone-pelting incidents are only seen when we try to look for them. There was a time when stone pelting was common in Kashmir. Such incidents have decreased to a huge extent. But, I want to say that there is no need to be satisfied," Shah said.

"Narendra Modi government has a zero-tolerance policy towards terrorism. We cannot bear it. It is against humanity. It should be our priority to save the people of Kashmir from the persons who are linked to this heinous crime against humanity," he said.&nbsp;

The Home Minister expressed his gratitude to the CRPF and other security forces for ensuring that there was no bloodshed after Article 370 was revoked in August 2019.

"There are many changes that are happening on the development front, in infrastructure, industrial and education sectors because the Army and CRPF are ensuring that all sinister designs are defeated," Shah said.

Watch |&nbsp;Jammu and Kashmir: Amit Shah to visit CRPF camp in Pulwama

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/jammu-and-kashmir-amit-shah-to-visit-crpf-camp-in-pulwama-423949/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

He said when Articles 370 and 35A were revoked, there were many apprehensions that "there would be a huge reaction".

"It was possible as well, that perhaps there could have been bloodshed, but today I have come here to tell you and tell you freely that because of your alertness not a single shot was fired. It is a huge thing for us.

"The alertness with which 28,000 jawans and also J-K policemen worked after a major decision was taken in national and J-K's interest, no blood was shed and a new era of development was started in Kashmir,"' he said.

Its effect is visible in the fact that the Pulwama which was known across the country and the world over for the terror attack on CRPF will now have a medical college to be built at the cost of Rs 2000 crore, he said.

Shah said during 2004-14, an average of 208 civilians and 105 security personnel were killed every year, but in the 2014-21 period, it has come down to 60 personnel and 30 civilians per year.

However, he asked why should even 30 civilians lose their lives to terror incidents.

Shah said the people of J-K have accepted the decision of the revocation of Article 370.

"All the forces here have taken care of the law and order situation in a right manner. So, as the country's Home Minister, I thank you for the good work," he said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/now-both-kashmir-jammu-will-get-developed-together-says-indian-home-minister-amit-shah-at-rally-423530">Now, both Kashmir, Jammu will get developed together, says Indian Home Minister Amit Shah at rally</a>

Shah said when Modi's vision of development in J-K is completed successfully, there will be peace.&nbsp;"And I believe that we will be able to see it in our lifetime only," he said.&nbsp;

"Jammu and Kashmir stands as an example of the fact if we are able to provide a secure environment and grassroots level democracy, anything can be achieved," the minister said, adding development in J-K is moving ahead at a double speed.

Shah said India, which was at the 11th position in 2014, will be a major economic power soon. "Today we are at sixth position and I am sure that by 2024 we will reach the third position," he said.

The union minister said it was an honour for him to spend a night with the CRPF jawans at the campus in Pulwama. 
"It is a very important programme for me to be with the forces whether the Army, BSF, CRPF or SSB who are protecting every last inch of the border. This is the last programme of my J-K visit and I can say this without any doubt that it is the most important programme," he said.

A suicide bomber of the Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terror group had attacked a CRPF convoy in Pulwama district on February 14, 2019, leaving 40 personnel dead. India then launched a counter-terror airstrike against a JeM training camp in Balakot on February 26.

Watch |&nbsp;Home Minister Amit Shah chairs security review meeting on 1st day of his 3-day J&amp;K visit

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/home-minister-amit-shah-chairs-security-review-meeting-on-1st-day-of-his-3-day-jk-visit-423265/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The next day, Pakistan Air Force had retaliated and downed a MiG-21 in aerial combat and captured its pilot Wing Commander Abhinanadan Varthaman, who was later released.

The IAF had said that during the aerial engagement on February 27, one of its MiG-21 Bison shot down a Pakistani F-16 fighter jet.

The Modi government has a zero-tolerance policy towards terror, and while the situation has improved a lot in Jammu and Kashmir, "we should not be satisfied till total peace is achieved", Union Home Minister Amit Shah said on Monday.

The Modi government has a zero-tolerance policy towards terror, and while the situation has improved a lot in Jammu and Kashmir, "we should not be satisfied till total peace is achieved", Union Home Minister Amit Shah said on Monday. Shah, who extended his three-day visit to Jammu and Kashmir, stayed for the night at the CRPF Campus in Lethpora in Pulwama where a suicide car bomb attack by Pakistan-sponsored terrorists in February 2019 had left 40 paramilitary personnel dead. Also read | Amit Shah in J&K for first visit since abrogation of Article 370; meets slain cop's family "I want to spend one night with you people and understand your problems," Shah said addressing the security personnel at the CRPF campus, adding it was his "most important" engagement during his visit to the Union territory. Shah said that the law and order situation has improved a lot in Jammu and Kashmir, adding that he was hopeful "we will be able to realise a peaceful Jammu and Kashmir as envisaged by Prime Minister Modi during our lifetime". "Stone-pelting incidents are only seen when we try to look for them. There was a time when stone pelting was common in Kashmir. Such incidents have decreased to a huge extent. But, I want to say that there is no need to be satisfied," Shah said. "Narendra Modi government has a zero-tolerance policy towards terrorism. We cannot bear it. It is against humanity. It should be our priority to save the people of Kashmir from the persons who are linked to this heinous crime against humanity," he said. The Home Minister expressed his gratitude to the CRPF and other security forces for ensuring that there was no bloodshed after Article 370 was revoked in August 2019. "There are many changes that are happening on the development front, in infrastructure, industrial and education sectors because the Army and CRPF are ensuring that all sinister designs are defeated," Shah said. Watch | Jammu and Kashmir: Amit Shah to visit CRPF camp in Pulwama He said when Articles 370 and 35A were revoked, there were many apprehensions that "there would be a huge reaction". "It was possible as well, that perhaps there could have been bloodshed, but today I have come here to tell you and tell you freely that because of your alertness not a single shot was fired. It is a huge thing for us. "The alertness with which 28,000 jawans and also J-K policemen worked after a major decision was taken in national and J-K's interest, no blood was shed and a new era of development was started in Kashmir,"' he said. Its effect is visible in the fact that the Pulwama which was known across the country and the world over for the terror attack on CRPF will now have a medical college to be built at the cost of Rs 2000 crore, he said. Shah said during 2004-14, an average of 208 civilians and 105 security personnel were killed every year, but in the 2014-21 period, it has come down to 60 personnel and 30 civilians per year. However, he asked why should even 30 civilians lose their lives to terror incidents. Shah said the people of J-K have accepted the decision of the revocation of Article 370. "All the forces here have taken care of the law and order situation in a right manner. So, as the country's Home Minister, I thank you for the good work," he said. Also read | Now, both Kashmir, Jammu will get developed together, says Indian Home Minister Amit Shah at rally Shah said when Modi's vision of development in J-K is completed successfully, there will be peace. "And I believe that we will be able to see it in our lifetime only," he said. "Jammu and Kashmir stands as an example of the fact if we are able to provide a secure environment and grassroots level democracy, anything can be achieved," the minister said, adding development in J-K is moving ahead at a double speed. Shah said India, which was at the 11th position in 2014, will be a major economic power soon. "Today we are at sixth position and I am sure that by 2024 we will reach the third position," he said. The union minister said it was an honour for him to spend a night with the CRPF jawans at the campus in Pulwama. "It is a very important programme for me to be with the forces whether the Army, BSF, CRPF or SSB who are protecting every last inch of the border. This is the last programme of my J-K visit and I can say this without any doubt that it is the most important programme," he said. A suicide bomber of the Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terror group had attacked a CRPF convoy in Pulwama district on February 14, 2019, leaving 40 personnel dead. India then launched a counter-terror airstrike against a JeM training camp in Balakot on February 26. Watch | Home Minister Amit Shah chairs security review meeting on 1st day of his 3-day J&K visit The next day, Pakistan Air Force had retaliated and downed a MiG-21 in aerial combat and captured its pilot Wing Commander Abhinanadan Varthaman, who was later released. The IAF had said that during the aerial engagement on February 27, one of its MiG-21 Bison shot down a Pakistani F-16 fighter jet.

Union home minister Amit Shah spends night at CRPF camp in Pulwama

China has no authority at all to get involved in choosing the next Dalai Lama as it does not believe in religion and the succession plan is entirely a spiritual matter and not a political issue for the Tibetan people, the head of the Tawang monastery in Arunachal Pradesh has said.

Gyangbung Rinpoche, the Abbot of the nearly 350-year-old monastery near India's border with China, also said that it is important to counter Beijing's "policy of expansionism" and New Delhi must maintain a strict vigil over the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with that country, in an oblique reference to the eastern Ladakh standoff.

Referring to China's aggressive posturing along the LAC, Rinpoche said though India believes in peace and prosperity, its approach in dealing with such belligerence has to be based on the ground reality.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/why-is-china-trying-to-break-indias-chicken-neck-423184">Why is China trying to break India's chicken neck?</a>

"It is important to counter China's growing assertiveness. It is necessary for India to keep a strict vigil over the border (with China)," he told PTI in an interview.

The head of the second largest monastery in the world after the Potala Palace in Tibet's Lhasa said only the current Dalai Lama and the Tibetan people have the right to decide about the successor to the Tibetan spiritual leader and China has no role to play in the matter.

"The Chinese government does not believe in religion. How can a government that does not believe in religion decide the next Dalai Lama. The succession plan is a matter of religion and faith; it is not a political issue," Rinpoche said.

"China does not have any right to even get involved in the process of choosing the next Dalai Lama. Only the current Dalai Lama and his followers have the right to decide on the issue," he said.

The comments by the Abbot of the monastery that is located in a region claimed by China came amid strain in ties between the two countries following the eastern Ladakh border standoff. India maintains that its state of Arunachal Pradesh is an integral and inalienable part of the country.

Rinpoche said the Tibetan people will never accept any decision on the issue by China and that Beijing's attempt to get involved is part of efforts to "capture" the Tibetan heritage and "hold control" over the Tibetan people.

"It will be difficult for China to win the hearts of the people of Tibet. China is tightly controlling Tibet. The authorities do not even allow people from outside to meet Tibetans. There are so many restrictions. It is important that countries like India support the Tibetans," he said.

The issue of a successor to the 14th Dalai Lama, who has been living in exile in Dharamshala in India since 1959, gained traction as he turned 86 in July. The Dalai Lama is believed to be a living Buddha who is reincarnated after his death.

China has been insisting that the selection of the next Dalai Lama has to be decided within Chinese territory and that it has to have a say in the matter.

Referring to China's aggressive posturing along the LAC, Rinpoche said, "India believes in peace and prosperity. India does not like to fight or to have hatred against any country. India believes in living in peace with the countries which share a border with it."

"India needs to maintain a strict vigil over the border. Though India believes in peace and prosperity, its approach has to be based on the ground reality. Regions like Tawang and Ladakh are part of India," he said.

The religious leader said it is important to counter China's policy of expansionism. 
The monastery headed by Rinpoche is located in Tawang at an altitude of around 9,000 feet, a region that has significant political, spiritual and strategic dimensions.

After a failed anti-Chinese uprising in 1959, the 14th Dalai Lama fled Tibet and came to India where he set up a government-in-exile.

Beijing has in the past accused the Dalai Lama of indulging in "separatist" activities and trying to split Tibet and considers him as a divisive figure.

However, the Tibetan spiritual leader has insisted that he is not seeking independence but "genuine autonomy for all Tibetans living in the three traditional provinces of Tibet" under the "Middle-Way approach".

The Chinese government officials and the Dalai Lama or his representatives have not met for formal negotiations since 2010.&nbsp;

China has no authority at all to get involved in choosing the next Dalai Lama as it does not believe in religion and the succession plan is entirely a spiritual matter and not a political issue for the Tibetan people, the head of the Tawang monastery in Arunachal Pradesh has said.

China has no authority at all to get involved in choosing the next Dalai Lama as it does not believe in religion and the succession plan is entirely a spiritual matter and not a political issue for the Tibetan people, the head of the Tawang monastery in Arunachal Pradesh has said. Gyangbung Rinpoche, the Abbot of the nearly 350-year-old monastery near India's border with China, also said that it is important to counter Beijing's "policy of expansionism" and New Delhi must maintain a strict vigil over the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with that country, in an oblique reference to the eastern Ladakh standoff. Referring to China's aggressive posturing along the LAC, Rinpoche said though India believes in peace and prosperity, its approach in dealing with such belligerence has to be based on the ground reality. Also Read | Why is China trying to break India's chicken neck? "It is important to counter China's growing assertiveness. It is necessary for India to keep a strict vigil over the border (with China)," he told PTI in an interview. The head of the second largest monastery in the world after the Potala Palace in Tibet's Lhasa said only the current Dalai Lama and the Tibetan people have the right to decide about the successor to the Tibetan spiritual leader and China has no role to play in the matter. "The Chinese government does not believe in religion. How can a government that does not believe in religion decide the next Dalai Lama. The succession plan is a matter of religion and faith; it is not a political issue," Rinpoche said. "China does not have any right to even get involved in the process of choosing the next Dalai Lama. Only the current Dalai Lama and his followers have the right to decide on the issue," he said. The comments by the Abbot of the monastery that is located in a region claimed by China came amid strain in ties between the two countries following the eastern Ladakh border standoff. India maintains that its state of Arunachal Pradesh is an integral and inalienable part of the country. Rinpoche said the Tibetan people will never accept any decision on the issue by China and that Beijing's attempt to get involved is part of efforts to "capture" the Tibetan heritage and "hold control" over the Tibetan people. "It will be difficult for China to win the hearts of the people of Tibet. China is tightly controlling Tibet. The authorities do not even allow people from outside to meet Tibetans. There are so many restrictions. It is important that countries like India support the Tibetans," he said. The issue of a successor to the 14th Dalai Lama, who has been living in exile in Dharamshala in India since 1959, gained traction as he turned 86 in July. The Dalai Lama is believed to be a living Buddha who is reincarnated after his death. China has been insisting that the selection of the next Dalai Lama has to be decided within Chinese territory and that it has to have a say in the matter. Referring to China's aggressive posturing along the LAC, Rinpoche said, "India believes in peace and prosperity. India does not like to fight or to have hatred against any country. India believes in living in peace with the countries which share a border with it." "India needs to maintain a strict vigil over the border. Though India believes in peace and prosperity, its approach has to be based on the ground reality. Regions like Tawang and Ladakh are part of India," he said. The religious leader said it is important to counter China's policy of expansionism. The monastery headed by Rinpoche is located in Tawang at an altitude of around 9,000 feet, a region that has significant political, spiritual and strategic dimensions. After a failed anti-Chinese uprising in 1959, the 14th Dalai Lama fled Tibet and came to India where he set up a government-in-exile. Beijing has in the past accused the Dalai Lama of indulging in "separatist" activities and trying to split Tibet and considers him as a divisive figure. However, the Tibetan spiritual leader has insisted that he is not seeking independence but "genuine autonomy for all Tibetans living in the three traditional provinces of Tibet" under the "Middle-Way approach". The Chinese government officials and the Dalai Lama or his representatives have not met for formal negotiations since 2010.

China does not have any right in choosing next Dalai Lama: Head of Tawang monastery

Top commanders of the Indian Army on Monday carried out a comprehensive review of the country's security challenges, including in eastern Ladakh and other sensitive areas along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China, on the opening day of a four-day conference, people familiar with the developments said.

The commanders also deliberated on the security scenario in Jammu and Kashmir in the face of a spate of killings of civilians in the Union Territory in the last few weeks, they said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/why-is-china-trying-to-break-indias-chicken-neck-423184">Also Read:&nbsp;Why is China trying to break India's chicken neck?</a>

The conference chaired by Chief of Army Staff Gen MM Naravane is taking place in the national capital.

They said the top commanders reviewed India's combat readiness in eastern Ladakh where Indian and Chinese troops are locked in a bitter standoff for the past 17 months, though the two sides have completed disengagement at a number of friction points.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is expected to address the commanders on Wednesday.

They said the commanders also deliberated on issues relating to human resources and reform measures in the 1.3-million-strong force.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-new-law-seeks-to-strengthen-border-defence-423602">Also Read:&nbsp;China's new law seeks to 'strengthen border defence'</a>

The conference is an institutional platform for conceptual-level deliberations, culminating in making important policy decisions for the Indian Army.

Chief of defence staff Gen Bipin Rawat, Navy chief Admiral Karambir Singh and chief of air staff air chief Marshal VR Chaudhari are also scheduled to address the senior leadership of the Indian Army on avenues for promoting tri-service synergy.

The army commanders are also expected to deliberate on various reform measures recommended by separate internal committees, the people cited above said.

They said the discussions on the situation in eastern Ladakh and ways to further bolster India's military preparedness in the region are likely to dominate the conference in the next three days.

"The commanders will review overall military preparedness in eastern Ladakh as well as in other sectors of the LAC," said one of the people cited above.

Top commanders of the Indian Army on Monday carried out a comprehensive review of the country's security challenges, including in eastern Ladakh and other sensitive areas along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China, on the opening day of a four-day conference, people familiar with the developments said.

Top commanders of the Indian Army on Monday carried out a comprehensive review of the country's security challenges, including in eastern Ladakh and other sensitive areas along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China, on the opening day of a four-day conference, people familiar with the developments said. The commanders also deliberated on the security scenario in Jammu and Kashmir in the face of a spate of killings of civilians in the Union Territory in the last few weeks, they said. Also Read: Why is China trying to break India's chicken neck? The conference chaired by Chief of Army Staff Gen MM Naravane is taking place in the national capital. They said the top commanders reviewed India's combat readiness in eastern Ladakh where Indian and Chinese troops are locked in a bitter standoff for the past 17 months, though the two sides have completed disengagement at a number of friction points. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is expected to address the commanders on Wednesday. They said the commanders also deliberated on issues relating to human resources and reform measures in the 1.3-million-strong force. Also Read: China's new law seeks to 'strengthen border defence' The conference is an institutional platform for conceptual-level deliberations, culminating in making important policy decisions for the Indian Army. Chief of defence staff Gen Bipin Rawat, Navy chief Admiral Karambir Singh and chief of air staff air chief Marshal VR Chaudhari are also scheduled to address the senior leadership of the Indian Army on avenues for promoting tri-service synergy. The army commanders are also expected to deliberate on various reform measures recommended by separate internal committees, the people cited above said. They said the discussions on the situation in eastern Ladakh and ways to further bolster India's military preparedness in the region are likely to dominate the conference in the next three days. "The commanders will review overall military preparedness in eastern Ladakh as well as in other sectors of the LAC," said one of the people cited above.

Indian Army commanders review situation along LAC with China

Amid allegations of an extortion attempt by NCB zonal director Sameer Wankhede and others in connection with the cruise drugs case in which actor Shah Rukh Khan's son Aryan Khan is arrested, the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) in an affidavit submitted before a special court here on Monday said Wankhede and other officers have an impeccable service record.

Earlier in the day, the federal anti-drug agency and Wankhede filed affidavits before the special court, designated to hear cases related to the Narcotics Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, against the allegations of extortion attempts levelled against them.

In the affidavits, the anti-drugs agency and Wankhede sought the court to pass an order saying no court should take cognizance of the affidavit prepared by the independent witness, Prabhakar Sail.

As per the NCB and its zonal director, the allegations made by Sail were only an attempt to create hurdles and scuttle the investigation into the case.

"It is emphatically stated that the NCB, as an organisation and/or its officers, the zonal director, who has an impeccable service record, replete with honesty and integrity, has no interest whatsoever as falsely alleged in the purported affidavit (of the witness)," the anti-drug agency said.

"The NCB headed by its zonal director and its team was working tirelessly with the sole objective to eradicate the drug menace in the city of Mumbai and act in compliance with the aims and object of this stringent enactment (NDPS Act), to make the city drug free," it added.

The agency further said that at such a stage, the witness's claims was an attempt to tamper with and obstruct an ongoing investigation and hence stringent action ought to be taken against the witness.

It added that the affidavit/application was filed by the agency in the interest of justice and to avoid an independent and reputed agency from being defamed and tarnished by unscrupulous elements who intend to further their own vested interests.

Special Judge V V Patil disposed of the applications and refused to pass any blanket order.

On Sunday, Prabhakar Sail, an independent witness in the case, in a statement to the media, claimed that Rs 25 crore was demanded by an official of the NCB and other persons, including absconding witness K P Gosavi, to let off Aryan Khan in the drugs case.

Sail told media persons that he had overheard Gosavi telling one Sam D'Souza over the phone about a demand of Rs 25 crore and "to settle at Rs 18 crore as they have to give Rs eight crore to Sameer Wankhede".

Sail had said he would soon release evidence to support his claim.

Aryan Khan and 19 others have been arrested so far in the case. Aryan is presently lodged at the Arthur Road prison.

Amid allegations of an extortion attempt by NCB zonal director Sameer Wankhede and others in connection with the cruise drugs case in which actor Shah Rukh Khan's son Aryan Khan is arrested, the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) in an affidavit submitted before a special court here on Monday said Wankhede and other officers have an impeccable service record.

Amid allegations of an extortion attempt by NCB zonal director Sameer Wankhede and others in connection with the cruise drugs case in which actor Shah Rukh Khan's son Aryan Khan is arrested, the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) in an affidavit submitted before a special court here on Monday said Wankhede and other officers have an impeccable service record. Earlier in the day, the federal anti-drug agency and Wankhede filed affidavits before the special court, designated to hear cases related to the Narcotics Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, against the allegations of extortion attempts levelled against them. In the affidavits, the anti-drugs agency and Wankhede sought the court to pass an order saying no court should take cognizance of the affidavit prepared by the independent witness, Prabhakar Sail. As per the NCB and its zonal director, the allegations made by Sail were only an attempt to create hurdles and scuttle the investigation into the case. "It is emphatically stated that the NCB, as an organisation and/or its officers, the zonal director, who has an impeccable service record, replete with honesty and integrity, has no interest whatsoever as falsely alleged in the purported affidavit (of the witness)," the anti-drug agency said. "The NCB headed by its zonal director and its team was working tirelessly with the sole objective to eradicate the drug menace in the city of Mumbai and act in compliance with the aims and object of this stringent enactment (NDPS Act), to make the city drug free," it added. The agency further said that at such a stage, the witness's claims was an attempt to tamper with and obstruct an ongoing investigation and hence stringent action ought to be taken against the witness. It added that the affidavit/application was filed by the agency in the interest of justice and to avoid an independent and reputed agency from being defamed and tarnished by unscrupulous elements who intend to further their own vested interests. Special Judge V V Patil disposed of the applications and refused to pass any blanket order. On Sunday, Prabhakar Sail, an independent witness in the case, in a statement to the media, claimed that Rs 25 crore was demanded by an official of the NCB and other persons, including absconding witness K P Gosavi, to let off Aryan Khan in the drugs case. Sail told media persons that he had overheard Gosavi telling one Sam D'Souza over the phone about a demand of Rs 25 crore and "to settle at Rs 18 crore as they have to give Rs eight crore to Sameer Wankhede". Sail had said he would soon release evidence to support his claim. Aryan Khan and 19 others have been arrested so far in the case. Aryan is presently lodged at the Arthur Road prison.

India's Narcotics Control Bureau backs top officer Sameer Wankhede in court amid controversy

&nbsp;Pointing out that over 100 crore doses of Covishield have been supplied in India and many other countries, Serum Institute of India on Monday sought regular marketing approval for the COVID-19 vaccine, which is currently authorized for emergency use in the country, official sources said.

The application sent to the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) by Prakash Kumar Singh, Director, Government and Regulatory Affairs at Serum Institute of India (SII) comes just a couple of days after Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a meeting with domestic COVID-19 vaccine manufacturers.

If the DCGI grants regular marketing authorisation, Covishied will be the second vaccine in the world to receive such approval. Pfizer-BioNTech's COVID-19 vaccine has received full US FDA approval for use in individuals 16 years of age and older.

The cumulative COVID-19 vaccines administered in the country has exceeded 102.27 crore. Of all the vaccine doses administered, around 90 per cent are Covishield and close to 10 per cent are Bharat Biotech's Covaxin. Less than one per cent of the doses given are Sputnik V.

The Pune-based SII has submitted the final phase 2/3 clinical study report of India with its application for grant of regular market authorization for Covishield, an official source said.

According to the application by Singh, the firm has already submitted phase-3 clinical study results of 24,244 subjects from the UK, Brazil and South Africa on June 8, 2021, to the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO).

Also, phase-3 clinical study results of 32,379 subjects from the US, Chile and Peru were submitted on July 9.

"In addition to the successful completion of our phase 2/3 clinical study in India, till now more than 100 crore doses of our Covishield has been administered to people in our country and worldwide.

"Such a large-scale vaccination with our Covishield vaccine and containment of COVID-19 infection is in itself a testimony to the safety and efficacy of Covishield," the official source quoted Singh as having stated in the application.

Singh thanked the DCGI office and Subject Expert Committee for granting restricted emergency use approval to Covishield on January 3, because of which, he said, the vaccine played a crucial role in the pandemic control and has been the mainstay of India's Covid inoculation drive.

"It is a matter of pride for us that we have been a part of the world's largest vaccination drive under the dynamic and visionary leadership of our Prime Minister Narendra Modi Ji," Singh is learnt to have said in the application.

Under the kind guidance of Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, Team Government of India and leadership of CEO Adar C Poonawalla, Team Serum Institute of India has been working relentlessly to manufacture and supply Covishield vaccine for making the world's largest Covid vaccination drive successful, he said.

"In line with our prime minister's clarion call of Aatmanirbhar Bharat, we have made our country Aatmanirbhar for COVID-19 vaccine. In view of the above-mentioned facts, we request for your kind approval for regular market authorization of Covishield," Singh is learnt to have written in the application.

Pointing out that over 100 crore doses of Covishield have been supplied in India and many other countries, Serum Institute of India on Monday sought regular marketing approval for the COVID-19 vaccine, which is currently authorized for emergency use in the country, official sources said.

Pointing out that over 100 crore doses of Covishield have been supplied in India and many other countries, Serum Institute of India on Monday sought regular marketing approval for the COVID-19 vaccine, which is currently authorized for emergency use in the country, official sources said. The application sent to the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) by Prakash Kumar Singh, Director, Government and Regulatory Affairs at Serum Institute of India (SII) comes just a couple of days after Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a meeting with domestic COVID-19 vaccine manufacturers. If the DCGI grants regular marketing authorisation, Covishied will be the second vaccine in the world to receive such approval. Pfizer-BioNTech's COVID-19 vaccine has received full US FDA approval for use in individuals 16 years of age and older. The cumulative COVID-19 vaccines administered in the country has exceeded 102.27 crore. Of all the vaccine doses administered, around 90 per cent are Covishield and close to 10 per cent are Bharat Biotech's Covaxin. Less than one per cent of the doses given are Sputnik V. The Pune-based SII has submitted the final phase 2/3 clinical study report of India with its application for grant of regular market authorization for Covishield, an official source said. According to the application by Singh, the firm has already submitted phase-3 clinical study results of 24,244 subjects from the UK, Brazil and South Africa on June 8, 2021, to the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO). Also, phase-3 clinical study results of 32,379 subjects from the US, Chile and Peru were submitted on July 9. "In addition to the successful completion of our phase 2/3 clinical study in India, till now more than 100 crore doses of our Covishield has been administered to people in our country and worldwide. "Such a large-scale vaccination with our Covishield vaccine and containment of COVID-19 infection is in itself a testimony to the safety and efficacy of Covishield," the official source quoted Singh as having stated in the application. Singh thanked the DCGI office and Subject Expert Committee for granting restricted emergency use approval to Covishield on January 3, because of which, he said, the vaccine played a crucial role in the pandemic control and has been the mainstay of India's Covid inoculation drive. "It is a matter of pride for us that we have been a part of the world's largest vaccination drive under the dynamic and visionary leadership of our Prime Minister Narendra Modi Ji," Singh is learnt to have said in the application. Under the kind guidance of Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, Team Government of India and leadership of CEO Adar C Poonawalla, Team Serum Institute of India has been working relentlessly to manufacture and supply Covishield vaccine for making the world's largest Covid vaccination drive successful, he said. "In line with our prime minister's clarion call of Aatmanirbhar Bharat, we have made our country Aatmanirbhar for COVID-19 vaccine. In view of the above-mentioned facts, we request for your kind approval for regular market authorization of Covishield," Singh is learnt to have written in the application.

Serum Institute of India seeks regular marketing authorisation from DCGI for Covishield

On Monday, several pleas, including those from two couples, seeking recognition of same-sex marriage under the special, Hindu and foreign marriage laws have been listed for final hearing by the Delhi High Court.

Justice Jyoti Singh and Chief Justice D N Patel granted the parties time to file their replies and rejoinders and set November 30 for a final hearing in the matter.

In the first petition, Abhijit Iyer Mitra and three other petitioners assert that same-sex marriage is impossible despite the Supreme Court decriminalising consensual homosexual acts and want them to be recognised under the Hindu Marriage Act (HMA) and the Special Marriage Act (SMA).

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/30-years-in-tracing-the-history-of-gay-marriage-252990">30 years in: Tracing the history of gay marriage</a>

The second appeal is brought by two women seeking to get married under the SMA, contesting the statutory provisions and their limitations pertaining to same-sex marriages.

The third appeal comes from two men who got married in the US but were denied registration of their marriage under the Foreign Marriage Act (FMA).

Another petition calls for the right for a spouse of an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholder to apply for registration as an OCI regardless of sexual orientation or gender.

This petition is by a married same-sex couple Joydeep Sengupta, an OCI, and Russell Blaine Stephens, a US citizen. Along with the couple, an Indian citizen and a queer rights academic and activist Mario Dpenha has also filed this petition.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/they-said-yes-swiss-voters-back-same-sex-marriage-416213">They said yes! Swiss voters back same-sex marriage</a>

Advocate Karuna Nandy, representing the couple, stated that they got married in New York, and contends that the Citizenship Act is silent on the gender or sexuality of the spouse and that a person married to an overseas citizen of India for two years should be declared eligible to apply as a spouse for an OCI card.

However, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta claimed that 'spouse' meant either the husband or wife and that 'marriage' indicated heterosexual unions and that a specific reply to the Citizenship Act was not required.

'The law as it stands...Personal laws are settled and marriage which is contemplated to be is between (a) biological man and (a) biological woman," he said, adding that petitioners' perception of the Supreme Court's decriminalisation verdict is unclear.

"The issue here is whether marriage is permissible between homosexual couples. Your lordships have to see that. There is some misconception regarding Navtej Singh Johar case. It merely decriminalises consensual homosexual act. It does not talk about marriage," Mehta contended.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/same-sex-marriages-not-recognised-by-our-laws-society-and-our-values-centre-to-hc-327439">Same sex marriages not recognised by our laws, society and our values: Centre to HC</a>

According to Saurabh Kirpal, a senior advocate representing one of the petitioners, while the Supreme Court didn't specifically permit same-sex marriage, the inevitable implication in Constitutional matters provides for it, this being how Constitutional jurisprudence operates.

In India, the central government has opposed same-sex marriage, claiming it is not just the union of two individuals, but an institution between a biological male and a biological female.

Moreover, it said that judicial interference would create "complete havoc with the delicate balance of personal laws".

(With inputs from agencies)

On Monday, several pleas, including those from two couples, seeking recognition of same-sex marriage under the special, Hindu and foreign marriage laws have been listed for final hearing by the Delhi High Court.

On Monday, several pleas, including those from two couples, seeking recognition of same-sex marriage under the special, Hindu and foreign marriage laws have been listed for final hearing by the Delhi High Court. Justice Jyoti Singh and Chief Justice D N Patel granted the parties time to file their replies and rejoinders and set November 30 for a final hearing in the matter. In the first petition, Abhijit Iyer Mitra and three other petitioners assert that same-sex marriage is impossible despite the Supreme Court decriminalising consensual homosexual acts and want them to be recognised under the Hindu Marriage Act (HMA) and the Special Marriage Act (SMA). Also read | 30 years in: Tracing the history of gay marriage The second appeal is brought by two women seeking to get married under the SMA, contesting the statutory provisions and their limitations pertaining to same-sex marriages. The third appeal comes from two men who got married in the US but were denied registration of their marriage under the Foreign Marriage Act (FMA). Another petition calls for the right for a spouse of an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholder to apply for registration as an OCI regardless of sexual orientation or gender. This petition is by a married same-sex couple Joydeep Sengupta, an OCI, and Russell Blaine Stephens, a US citizen. Along with the couple, an Indian citizen and a queer rights academic and activist Mario Dpenha has also filed this petition. Also read | They said yes! Swiss voters back same-sex marriage Advocate Karuna Nandy, representing the couple, stated that they got married in New York, and contends that the Citizenship Act is silent on the gender or sexuality of the spouse and that a person married to an overseas citizen of India for two years should be declared eligible to apply as a spouse for an OCI card. However, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta claimed that 'spouse' meant either the husband or wife and that 'marriage' indicated heterosexual unions and that a specific reply to the Citizenship Act was not required. 'The law as it stands...Personal laws are settled and marriage which is contemplated to be is between (a) biological man and (a) biological woman," he said, adding that petitioners' perception of the Supreme Court's decriminalisation verdict is unclear. "The issue here is whether marriage is permissible between homosexual couples. Your lordships have to see that. There is some misconception regarding Navtej Singh Johar case. It merely decriminalises consensual homosexual act. It does not talk about marriage," Mehta contended. Also read | Same sex marriages not recognised by our laws, society and our values: Centre to HC According to Saurabh Kirpal, a senior advocate representing one of the petitioners, while the Supreme Court didn't specifically permit same-sex marriage, the inevitable implication in Constitutional matters provides for it, this being how Constitutional jurisprudence operates. In India, the central government has opposed same-sex marriage, claiming it is not just the union of two individuals, but an institution between a biological male and a biological female. Moreover, it said that judicial interference would create "complete havoc with the delicate balance of personal laws". (With inputs from agencies)

Delhi High Court sets November 30 for final hearing on same-sex marriages in India

India logged 14,306 new COVID-19 cases, taking the virus tally to 3,41,89,774, while the active cases declined to 1,67,695, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Monday.

The death toll climbed to 4,54,712 with 443 daily fatalities, according to the data updated at 8 am.

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The daily rise in new coronavirus infections has been below 30,000 for 31 straight days and less than 50,000 daily new cases have been reported for 120 consecutive days now.

The active cases comprise 0.49 per cent of the total infections, the lowest since March 2020, while the national COVID-19 recovery rate was recorded at 98.18 per cent, the highest since March 2020, the ministry said.

A decrease of 4,899 cases has been recorded in the total active number of COVID-19 cases in a span of 24 hours.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-mammoth-covid-19-vaccination-d">India's mammoth COVID-19 vaccination drive: The body is an Ambassador car, but the engine is a Ferrari</a>

The daily positivity rate was recorded at 1.43 per cent and the weekly positivity rate was also recorded at 1.24 per cent, according to the ministry.

The number of people who have recuperated from the disease surged to 3,35,67,367, while the case fatality rate was recorded at 1.33 per cent.

India logged 14,306 new COVID-19 cases, taking the virus tally to 3,41,89,774, while the active cases declined to 1,67,695, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Monday.

India logged 14,306 new COVID-19 cases, taking the virus tally to 3,41,89,774, while the active cases declined to 1,67,695, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Monday. The death toll climbed to 4,54,712 with 443 daily fatalities, according to the data updated at 8 am. Also Read | India proposes mutual recognition of Covid vaccine certificates to Pakistan The daily rise in new coronavirus infections has been below 30,000 for 31 straight days and less than 50,000 daily new cases have been reported for 120 consecutive days now. The active cases comprise 0.49 per cent of the total infections, the lowest since March 2020, while the national COVID-19 recovery rate was recorded at 98.18 per cent, the highest since March 2020, the ministry said. A decrease of 4,899 cases has been recorded in the total active number of COVID-19 cases in a span of 24 hours. Also Read | India's mammoth COVID-19 vaccination drive: The body is an Ambassador car, but the engine is a Ferrari The daily positivity rate was recorded at 1.43 per cent and the weekly positivity rate was also recorded at 1.24 per cent, according to the ministry. The number of people who have recuperated from the disease surged to 3,35,67,367, while the case fatality rate was recorded at 1.33 per cent.

India logs 14,306 new COVID-19 cases in 24 hours

Three trekkers from Maharashtra have died due to heavy snowfall in India's&nbsp;Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh state, while the 10 other trekkers have been rescued.

On October 17, the group of 13 trekkers – 12 from Maharashtra and 1 from Kolkata started their trekking from Rohru to Burua village in Kinnaur district but they were stranded at Burua Kanda area due to heavy snowfall in the region.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/uttarakhand-11-of-17-missing-trekkers-found-dead-as-iafs-rescue-op-continues-423219">Uttarakhand: 11 of 17 missing trekkers found dead as IAF’s rescue op continues</a>

Three trekkers have died while 10 of them have been rescued. The dead are lying somewhere at around 15,000 feet. ITBP team is reaching the spot today to search the bodies," said ITBP.

The deceased have been identified as Rajendra Pathak, Ashok Bhalerao and Deepak Rao.

Last week, at least 11 of 17 trekkers had gone missing due to heavy snowfall and inclement weather,&nbsp;during a trek to Chitkul in Himachal Pradesh via Harsil in Uttarkashi.&nbsp;

Uttarkashi search and rescue teams found&nbsp;bodies of five trekkers on Thursday. Two members of the team were also found dead in Himachal Pradesh, said Uttarkashi district disaster management officer.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Three trekkers from Maharashtra have died due to heavy snowfall in India's Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh state, while the 10 other trekkers have been rescued.

Three trekkers from Maharashtra have died due to heavy snowfall in India's Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh state, while the 10 other trekkers have been rescued. On October 17, the group of 13 trekkers – 12 from Maharashtra and 1 from Kolkata started their trekking from Rohru to Burua village in Kinnaur district but they were stranded at Burua Kanda area due to heavy snowfall in the region. Also Read | Uttarakhand: 11 of 17 missing trekkers found dead as IAF’s rescue op continues Three trekkers have died while 10 of them have been rescued. The dead are lying somewhere at around 15,000 feet. ITBP team is reaching the spot today to search the bodies," said ITBP. The deceased have been identified as Rajendra Pathak, Ashok Bhalerao and Deepak Rao. Last week, at least 11 of 17 trekkers had gone missing due to heavy snowfall and inclement weather, during a trek to Chitkul in Himachal Pradesh via Harsil in Uttarkashi. Uttarkashi search and rescue teams found bodies of five trekkers on Thursday. Two members of the team were also found dead in Himachal Pradesh, said Uttarkashi district disaster management officer. (With inputs from agencies)

3 trekkers dead, 10 rescued after heavy snowfall in India's Himachal Pradesh

A human heart was flown nearly 700 km, the distance between two southern Indian cities, Kochi in Kerala and Chennai in Tamil Nadu, to save the life of a 51-year-old patient. The speedy transportation enabled a successful transplant, which was performed on late Sunday evening. &nbsp;

Harvested from a brain-dead person, the heart was transplanted to a 51-year-old male, who had been suffering from a condition known as Dilated Cardio Myopathy (DCM), which decreases the heart's ability to pump blood. The recipient had been on an organ registry waiting list, since February this year. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/now-both-kashmir-jammu-will-get-developed-together-says-indian-home-minister-amit-shah-at-rally-423530" hreflang="en">Now, both Kashmir, Jammu will get developed together, says Indian Home Minister Amit Shah at rally</a>

The donor, a 30-year-old male from Kochi, had failed to respond to treatment, after suffering a traumatic brain injury due to a road accident. He was hospitalised on October 19. He was declared brain dead on Saturday, following which his family was counselled and then consented for organ donation. &nbsp;&nbsp;

An alert for the heart organ was sent to Tamil Nadu Organ registry, which was later allocated to Rela Hospital in Chennai, as per the standard registry protocol. While the heart was allocated to Tamil Nadu, the remaining organs were allocated to hospitals in Kerala. &nbsp;&nbsp;

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A team of four doctors from Rela Hospital, led by Dr Arumugam, Heart and Lung Transplant Surgeon flew to Kochi on Sunday morning and retrieved the organ from the donor. This smooth transit was facilitated by a special Green corridor, a traffic-free route for road quick transport, that was made ready by Kochi Police and Chennai Police in the respective cities. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The team of doctors reached Chennai from Kochi by 4:10 pm, completing a journey of an hour and five minutes. The doctors then transported the heart from the airport to the Rela hospital, where the Transplant team headed by Dr Sandeep Attawar, Program Director, Heart and Lung transplant at Rela hospital and their teams had got the recipient ready. The recipient is stable and in good health, following the successful transplant on late Sunday evening.&nbsp;

A human heart was flown nearly 700 km, the distance between two southern Indian cities, Kochi in Kerala and Chennai in Tamil Nadu, to save the life of a 51-year-old patient.

A human heart was flown nearly 700 km, the distance between two southern Indian cities, Kochi in Kerala and Chennai in Tamil Nadu, to save the life of a 51-year-old patient. The speedy transportation enabled a successful transplant, which was performed on late Sunday evening. Harvested from a brain-dead person, the heart was transplanted to a 51-year-old male, who had been suffering from a condition known as Dilated Cardio Myopathy (DCM), which decreases the heart's ability to pump blood. The recipient had been on an organ registry waiting list, since February this year. Also Read: Now, both Kashmir, Jammu will get developed together, says Indian Home Minister Amit Shah at rally The donor, a 30-year-old male from Kochi, had failed to respond to treatment, after suffering a traumatic brain injury due to a road accident. He was hospitalised on October 19. He was declared brain dead on Saturday, following which his family was counselled and then consented for organ donation. An alert for the heart organ was sent to Tamil Nadu Organ registry, which was later allocated to Rela Hospital in Chennai, as per the standard registry protocol. While the heart was allocated to Tamil Nadu, the remaining organs were allocated to hospitals in Kerala. Also Read: Indian travel blogger killed in Mexico gang shootout A team of four doctors from Rela Hospital, led by Dr Arumugam, Heart and Lung Transplant Surgeon flew to Kochi on Sunday morning and retrieved the organ from the donor. This smooth transit was facilitated by a special Green corridor, a traffic-free route for road quick transport, that was made ready by Kochi Police and Chennai Police in the respective cities. The team of doctors reached Chennai from Kochi by 4:10 pm, completing a journey of an hour and five minutes. The doctors then transported the heart from the airport to the Rela hospital, where the Transplant team headed by Dr Sandeep Attawar, Program Director, Heart and Lung transplant at Rela hospital and their teams had got the recipient ready. The recipient is stable and in good health, following the successful transplant on late Sunday evening.

India: Docs, cops facilitate 700-km rapid transport of human heart for transplant

A Zika virus case has been reported in India's Kanpur district, a health official said on Sunday. He said a warrant officer in the Indian Air Force (IAF) was diagnosed with the infection on Saturday, the first in Kanpur.

Chief Medical Officer Nepal Singh said that the IAF officer was suffering from fever for the past several days and was admitted to the Air Force Hospital in the district.

Following mysterious symptoms in the case, the blood sample was collected and sent to Pune for proper examination which confirmed that the patient was Zika virus positive, he said, adding the report was received on Saturday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/now-both-kashmir-jammu-will-get-developed-together-says-indian-home-minister-amit-shah-at-rally-423530">Also read |&nbsp;Now, both Kashmir, Jammu will get developed together, says Indian Home Minister Amit Shah at rally</a>

Twenty-two more samples of persons who came in contact with the patient and those who have the same symptoms have also been sent for examination, Singh said.

Health and civic bodies' officials have been put on alert to deal with the situation. Besides, several teams have also been tasked to check the spread of the virus in the district, officials said.

A Zika virus case has been reported in India's Kanpur district, a health official said on Sunday. He said a warrant officer in the Indian Air Force (IAF) was diagnosed with the infection on Saturday, the first in Kanpur.

A Zika virus case has been reported in India's Kanpur district, a health official said on Sunday. He said a warrant officer in the Indian Air Force (IAF) was diagnosed with the infection on Saturday, the first in Kanpur. Chief Medical Officer Nepal Singh said that the IAF officer was suffering from fever for the past several days and was admitted to the Air Force Hospital in the district. Following mysterious symptoms in the case, the blood sample was collected and sent to Pune for proper examination which confirmed that the patient was Zika virus positive, he said, adding the report was received on Saturday. Also read | Now, both Kashmir, Jammu will get developed together, says Indian Home Minister Amit Shah at rally Twenty-two more samples of persons who came in contact with the patient and those who have the same symptoms have also been sent for examination, Singh said. Health and civic bodies' officials have been put on alert to deal with the situation. Besides, several teams have also been tasked to check the spread of the virus in the district, officials said.

First Zika virus case detected in India's UP state, says report

In his Mann Ki Baat program, PM Narendra Modi has expressed his gratitude to the health workers who have given height to the campaign of vaccination. He said that today vaccination in the country has crossed 100 crores. On this occasion, PM Modi also announced to organize three competitions on the occasion of National Unity Day on 31 October. He said that to promote the use of drone technology, we have simplified the process of its licensing.

Mann Ki Baat: PM Modi acknowledges efforts of healthcare workers

Bathukamma, the floral festival of Telangana went global on Saturday as the world's tallest building Burj Khalifa was lit up in colours depicting the festival. Located in Dubai, Burj Khalifa witnessed a unique show of lights.

The visual feast was attributed to the efforts of Nizamabad MLC Kalvakuntla Kavitha, who led Telangana Jagruthi to showcase states&nbsp;'Bathukamma culture and take the festival celebrations global by featuring its depiction on the worlds'&nbsp;largest screen.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/abraham-accords-dividend-india-us-uae-israel-foreign-ministers-to-hold-meeting-421701">Abraham Accords dividend: India, US, UAE &amp; Israel foreign ministers to hold meeting</a>

Kavitha, who is the former Member of Parliament and daughter of Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao, led Telangana Jagruthi, a cultural and literary organization that was formed during the statehood movement for Telangana in India and has been working to preserve and celebrate the cultural heritage of Telangana.

Kavitha took Twitter to share glimpses of the show with netizens.

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Please join me in witnessing Bathukamma screening at Burj Khalifa, Dubai <a href="https://t.co/jCRTNokdtI">https://t.co/jCRTNokdtI</a>
— Kavitha Kalvakuntla (@RaoKavitha) <a href="https://twitter.com/RaoKavitha/status/1451942012370886661?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2021</a></blockquote>
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This year's Bathukamma edition of Telangana Jagruthi was quite unique. The organization launched a Bathukamma song 'Allipoola Vennela', which is already a superhit this festive season composed by music maestro AR Rahman, directed by ace Indian director Gautham Vasudev Menon and brought to life by a talented team of artists.

The show of lights was live across various platforms around the globe at 9:30 pm IST. Telangana Jagruthi made arrangements to play the Bathukamma documentary on the big screen for invited delegates and separately for the local people. The screening featured the map of India, Map of Telangana, Chief Minister KCR, Bathukamma flowers, with Alipoola Vennela playing the background as the heritage of India and Telangana outshined at Burj Khalifa today.

The slogans of 'Jai Hind', 'Jai Telangana'&nbsp;and 'Jai KCR'&nbsp;on the Burj screen echoed with tears of joy and pride among the viewers.

The event was attended by Kavitha along with esteemed dignitaries from UAE and India.MP Suresh Reddy, Telangana State Road Transport Corporation (TSRTC) Chairman MLA Bajireddy, PUC Chairman MLA Jeevan Reddy, MLA's Shakeel, Ganesh Gupta, Dr Sanjay were joined by Kavitha who witnessed the historical moment. The screening was also attended by several dignitaries from UAE.

Bathukamma celebrations are held throughout the ten days of Dussehra. Bathukamma means 'Goddess of Life'. Women decorate a special pot with seasonal flowers, fill the pot with offerings to the Goddess, and go on a procession in the village.

Bathukamma, the floral festival of Telangana went global on Saturday as the world's tallest building Burj Khalifa was lit up in colours depicting the festival. Located in Dubai, Burj Khalifa witnessed a unique show of lights.

Bathukamma, the floral festival of Telangana went global on Saturday as the world's tallest building Burj Khalifa was lit up in colours depicting the festival. Located in Dubai, Burj Khalifa witnessed a unique show of lights. The visual feast was attributed to the efforts of Nizamabad MLC Kalvakuntla Kavitha, who led Telangana Jagruthi to showcase states 'Bathukamma culture and take the festival celebrations global by featuring its depiction on the worlds' largest screen. Also Read | Abraham Accords dividend: India, US, UAE & Israel foreign ministers to hold meeting Kavitha, who is the former Member of Parliament and daughter of Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao, led Telangana Jagruthi, a cultural and literary organization that was formed during the statehood movement for Telangana in India and has been working to preserve and celebrate the cultural heritage of Telangana. Kavitha took Twitter to share glimpses of the show with netizens. Please join me in witnessing Bathukamma screening at Burj Khalifa, Dubai https://t.co/jCRTNokdtI — Kavitha Kalvakuntla (@RaoKavitha) October 23, 2021 × This year's Bathukamma edition of Telangana Jagruthi was quite unique. The organization launched a Bathukamma song 'Allipoola Vennela', which is already a superhit this festive season composed by music maestro AR Rahman, directed by ace Indian director Gautham Vasudev Menon and brought to life by a talented team of artists. The show of lights was live across various platforms around the globe at 9:30 pm IST. Telangana Jagruthi made arrangements to play the Bathukamma documentary on the big screen for invited delegates and separately for the local people. The screening featured the map of India, Map of Telangana, Chief Minister KCR, Bathukamma flowers, with Alipoola Vennela playing the background as the heritage of India and Telangana outshined at Burj Khalifa today. The slogans of 'Jai Hind', 'Jai Telangana' and 'Jai KCR' on the Burj screen echoed with tears of joy and pride among the viewers. The event was attended by Kavitha along with esteemed dignitaries from UAE and India.MP Suresh Reddy, Telangana State Road Transport Corporation (TSRTC) Chairman MLA Bajireddy, PUC Chairman MLA Jeevan Reddy, MLA's Shakeel, Ganesh Gupta, Dr Sanjay were joined by Kavitha who witnessed the historical moment. The screening was also attended by several dignitaries from UAE. Bathukamma celebrations are held throughout the ten days of Dussehra. Bathukamma means 'Goddess of Life'. Women decorate a special pot with seasonal flowers, fill the pot with offerings to the Goddess, and go on a procession in the village.

Telangana's Bathukamma festival goes global as Burj Khalifa lights up in unique show of colours

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Tata has launched its smallest crossover, the Punch, in India with a starting price tag of INR 5.49 lakh (ex-showroom). World recognised Global NCAP has recently awarded the car with a 5-star rating for adult protection in the crash test, but we are going to talk about how it performs in real-life conditions.

Tata Punch review: Ready to knock out the competition?

At a public rally in Jammu and Kashmir during his three-day visit, Indian Home Minister Amit Shah said that the time for sidelining the people of Jammu has come to an end, and now both Kashmir and Jammu will be developed together. &nbsp;

This is Shah’s first visit after the Centre had revoked the erstwhile state's special status and bifurcated it into union territories on August 5, 2019. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amit-shah-in-jk-for-first-visit-since-abrogation-of-article-370-meets-slain-cops-family-423383" hreflang="en">Amit Shah in J&amp;K for first visit since abrogation of Article 370; meets slain cop's family</a>

In the rally in Bhagwati Nagar area, the home minister said no one will now be able to create any hurdle in the development of Jammu and Kashmir. &nbsp;

Addressing the rally, he said Rs 12,000 crore worth of investment has already come to the union territory and the government aims to look at a total of Rs 51,000 crore by the 2022 end. &nbsp;

If the youth join the development of Jammu and Kashmir, terrorists will fail in their sinister plans, he asserted. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-pm-modi-to-visit-italy-and-uk-next-week-423350" hreflang="en">Indian PM Modi to visit Italy and UK next week</a>

The home minister said the government looks to ensure that no civilian gets killed in violence and terrorism is wiped out from the state. &nbsp;

In and around the venue, police and paramilitary personnel were deployed in complete strength. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

At a public rally in Jammu and Kashmir during his three-day visit, Indian Home Minister Amit Shah said that the time for sidelining the people of Jammu has come to an end, and now both Kashmir and Jammu will be developed together.

At a public rally in Jammu and Kashmir during his three-day visit, Indian Home Minister Amit Shah said that the time for sidelining the people of Jammu has come to an end, and now both Kashmir and Jammu will be developed together. This is Shah’s first visit after the Centre had revoked the erstwhile state's special status and bifurcated it into union territories on August 5, 2019. Also Read: Amit Shah in J&K for first visit since abrogation of Article 370; meets slain cop's family In the rally in Bhagwati Nagar area, the home minister said no one will now be able to create any hurdle in the development of Jammu and Kashmir. Addressing the rally, he said Rs 12,000 crore worth of investment has already come to the union territory and the government aims to look at a total of Rs 51,000 crore by the 2022 end. If the youth join the development of Jammu and Kashmir, terrorists will fail in their sinister plans, he asserted. Also Read: Indian PM Modi to visit Italy and UK next week The home minister said the government looks to ensure that no civilian gets killed in violence and terrorism is wiped out from the state. In and around the venue, police and paramilitary personnel were deployed in complete strength. (With inputs from agencies)

Now, both Kashmir, Jammu will get developed together, says Indian Home Minister Amit Shah at rally

According to documents from a former Facebook employee obtained by The Associated Press, Facebook has struggled to curb hateful content in India.&nbsp;

These documents were a part of files handed over to Congress and provided to the Securities and Exchange Commission by Frances Haugen, who happens to be a former Facebook employee and whistleblower.&nbsp;

The Facebook whistleblower told US senators that the social media juggernaut promotes divisiveness, hurts children, and urgently needs to be controlled, prompting promises that Congress will take long-delayed action.

The documents from 2019 to March 2021 show Facebook has not been able to keep up with misinformation and hateful content in India. The Associated Press reported that Facebook has known about the issues for years. The documents raise questions about if enough has been done to get rid of such content online.&nbsp;

One of the issues which were highlighted was that Facebook did not have enough moderators who spoke Hindi or Bengali to stop misinformation or hateful content.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/facebook-weakens-our-democracy-harms-kids-top-quotes-from-whistleblower-frances-haugens-testimony-418489">Also read |&nbsp;'Facebook weakens our democracy, harms kids': Top quotes from whistleblower Frances Haugen’s testimony</a>

The company labelled the languages as priorities for “automation on violating hostile speech.”&nbsp;

In 2019, one employee created a completely new Facebook account in India to see what someone would see recommended on their feed with no prior bias, reports AP. He said the account, which was live for three weeks, became "a near-constant barrage of polarising nationalist content, misinformation, and violence and gore.”

The content that the employee received&nbsp;contained fake news.

Facebook has “invested significantly in technology to find hate speech in various languages, including Hindi and Bengali,” the company told The Associated Press, which “reduced the amount of hate speech that people see by half” in 2021.

Haugen recently disclosed reams of internal information to authorities and The Wall Street Journal, testified on Capitol Hill, fueling one of the company's most serious crises yet. Haugen said that she believes that Facebook's products harm children, stoke division and weaken our democracy.

According to documents from a former Facebook employee obtained by The Associated Press, Facebook has struggled to curb hateful content in India. These documents were a part of files handed over to Congress and provided to the Securities and Exchange Commission by Frances Haugen, who happens to be a former Facebook employee and whistleblower.

According to documents from a former Facebook employee obtained by The Associated Press, Facebook has struggled to curb hateful content in India. These documents were a part of files handed over to Congress and provided to the Securities and Exchange Commission by Frances Haugen, who happens to be a former Facebook employee and whistleblower. The Facebook whistleblower told US senators that the social media juggernaut promotes divisiveness, hurts children, and urgently needs to be controlled, prompting promises that Congress will take long-delayed action. The documents from 2019 to March 2021 show Facebook has not been able to keep up with misinformation and hateful content in India. The Associated Press reported that Facebook has known about the issues for years. The documents raise questions about if enough has been done to get rid of such content online. One of the issues which were highlighted was that Facebook did not have enough moderators who spoke Hindi or Bengali to stop misinformation or hateful content. Also read | 'Facebook weakens our democracy, harms kids': Top quotes from whistleblower Frances Haugen’s testimony The company labelled the languages as priorities for “automation on violating hostile speech.” In 2019, one employee created a completely new Facebook account in India to see what someone would see recommended on their feed with no prior bias, reports AP. He said the account, which was live for three weeks, became "a near-constant barrage of polarising nationalist content, misinformation, and violence and gore.” The content that the employee received contained fake news. Facebook has “invested significantly in technology to find hate speech in various languages, including Hindi and Bengali,” the company told The Associated Press, which “reduced the amount of hate speech that people see by half” in 2021. Haugen recently disclosed reams of internal information to authorities and The Wall Street Journal, testified on Capitol Hill, fueling one of the company's most serious crises yet. Haugen said that she believes that Facebook's products harm children, stoke division and weaken our democracy.

Facebook struggles to combat misinformation and hate speech in India: Report

The Siliguri corridor, known as India's 'chicken neck', became a crucial passageway&nbsp;after the India-China Doklam crisis in 2017.

Located in West Bengal, the corridor is 60 km long and 20 km wide and connects the North-East with the rest of India.

It is not just an important trade route but also an important gateway to South East Asia as well.

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The region is surrounded by Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, and China. Tibet's Chumbi valley is just 130 km away from the chicken neck corridor.&nbsp;

The trijunction to India, Nepal and Bhutan is found at the tip of this valley and is known as the Doklam region which has become a standoff point.

Himalayan mountains such as Mount Kanchenjunga are the source of two major rivers known as Teesta and Jaldakha which merge in the Brahmaputra river when they enter Bangladesh.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-standoff-beijing-deploys-100-rocket-launchers-at-high-altitude-areas-422291" hreflang="en">India-China standoff: Beijing deploys 100 rocket launchers at high altitude areas</a>

The northeast region of India has a population of 50 million people and mostly Nepali and Bengali immigrants are found.

From the perspective of the economy, the corridor is immensely important for the trade for the north-eastern states and rest of India. It also hosts the only railway freight line between them.&nbsp;

Darjeeling tea and timber further increase the importance of this region.

The roadways and railways near the Line of Actual Control (LAC) are connected by the Siliguri corridor. All essentials are supplied to them through this corridor only.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/india-china-standoff-how-us-drones-along-lac-can-tilt-the-balance-in-indias-favour-against-china-332261">Also see |&nbsp;India-China standoff: How US drones along LAC can tilt the balance in India's favour against China</a>

It is helping India boost its 'Act East Policy' by facilitating connectivity between India and&nbsp;its northeastern states as well as ASEAN countries in Southeast Asia.

The corridor has proved significant in countering illegal immigration, cross-border terrorism, and Islamic radicalisation in the northeastern states.

South-east Asia is notorious for the golden triangle. Organised crime and drug trafficking is prevalent in Myanmar, Thailand, and Laos.

The spread of drug trafficking from these countries to Indian states such as Tripura, Mizoram, Manipur, Nagaland, and Arunachal Pradesh is a major security threat.

By improving the security in the Siliguri corridor, the region can be secured.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-standoff-indian-army-foils-chinas-intrusion-bid-in-sikkim-359265">Also read |&nbsp;India-China standoff: Indian Army foils China's intrusion bid in Sikkim</a>

Its close proximity to Tibet acts as an advantage to India as it can keep a close eye on China which has constructed several roads and airstrips in the region.

In the situation of war, weapons and troops can be mobilised easily through the Siliguri corridor.

Beijing is investing heavily in the neighbouring countries of India under the disguise of improving its global trade reach for its Belt and Road plan but these countries have become mired in a Chinese debt trap.

China has been stung by criticism, mostly from Western countries, that it loads up poor, developing nations with unsustainable debt they have no hope of paying back, and that it is seeking to use this to leverage political influence.

China says its loans are much welcomed and much needed, and points out that it provides them with no political pre-conditions and gives funds to places that Western donors ignore.

Talks between Indian and Chinese military commanders to resolve a protracted standoff on a stretch of the disputed Himalayan border have not yielded positive results.

Thousands of Indian and Chinese troops have been locked in a high-altitude face-off in India's Ladakh region since last year, despite the two militaries holding more than a dozen rounds of talks to defuse the situation.

In February, both sides had agreed to pull back troops from some areas around Pangong Tso, a glacial lake at 14,000 ft (4,270 metres), after prolonged negotiations between military commanders and diplomats of the two sides.

Deployments by the two sides were enhanced after clashes in June 2020, when 20 Indian soldiers were killed when soldiers fought with iron rods and stones in Ladakh's Galwan Valley.

The Siliguri corridor, known as India's 'chicken neck', became a crucial passageway after the India-China Doklam crisis in 2017. Located in West Bengal, the corridor is 60 km long and 20 km wide and connects the North-East with the rest of India.

The Siliguri corridor, known as India's 'chicken neck', became a crucial passageway after the India-China Doklam crisis in 2017. Located in West Bengal, the corridor is 60 km long and 20 km wide and connects the North-East with the rest of India. It is not just an important trade route but also an important gateway to South East Asia as well. The region is surrounded by Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, and China. Tibet's Chumbi valley is just 130 km away from the chicken neck corridor. The trijunction to India, Nepal and Bhutan is found at the tip of this valley and is known as the Doklam region which has become a standoff point. Himalayan mountains such as Mount Kanchenjunga are the source of two major rivers known as Teesta and Jaldakha which merge in the Brahmaputra river when they enter Bangladesh. Also read | India-China standoff: Beijing deploys 100 rocket launchers at high altitude areas The northeast region of India has a population of 50 million people and mostly Nepali and Bengali immigrants are found. From the perspective of the economy, the corridor is immensely important for the trade for the north-eastern states and rest of India. It also hosts the only railway freight line between them. Darjeeling tea and timber further increase the importance of this region. The roadways and railways near the Line of Actual Control (LAC) are connected by the Siliguri corridor. All essentials are supplied to them through this corridor only. Also see | India-China standoff: How US drones along LAC can tilt the balance in India's favour against China It is helping India boost its 'Act East Policy' by facilitating connectivity between India and its northeastern states as well as ASEAN countries in Southeast Asia. The corridor has proved significant in countering illegal immigration, cross-border terrorism, and Islamic radicalisation in the northeastern states. South-east Asia is notorious for the golden triangle. Organised crime and drug trafficking is prevalent in Myanmar, Thailand, and Laos. The spread of drug trafficking from these countries to Indian states such as Tripura, Mizoram, Manipur, Nagaland, and Arunachal Pradesh is a major security threat. By improving the security in the Siliguri corridor, the region can be secured. Also read | India-China standoff: Indian Army foils China's intrusion bid in Sikkim Its close proximity to Tibet acts as an advantage to India as it can keep a close eye on China which has constructed several roads and airstrips in the region. In the situation of war, weapons and troops can be mobilised easily through the Siliguri corridor. Beijing is investing heavily in the neighbouring countries of India under the disguise of improving its global trade reach for its Belt and Road plan but these countries have become mired in a Chinese debt trap. China has been stung by criticism, mostly from Western countries, that it loads up poor, developing nations with unsustainable debt they have no hope of paying back, and that it is seeking to use this to leverage political influence. China says its loans are much welcomed and much needed, and points out that it provides them with no political pre-conditions and gives funds to places that Western donors ignore. Talks between Indian and Chinese military commanders to resolve a protracted standoff on a stretch of the disputed Himalayan border have not yielded positive results. Thousands of Indian and Chinese troops have been locked in a high-altitude face-off in India's Ladakh region since last year, despite the two militaries holding more than a dozen rounds of talks to defuse the situation. In February, both sides had agreed to pull back troops from some areas around Pangong Tso, a glacial lake at 14,000 ft (4,270 metres), after prolonged negotiations between military commanders and diplomats of the two sides. Deployments by the two sides were enhanced after clashes in June 2020, when 20 Indian soldiers were killed when soldiers fought with iron rods and stones in Ladakh's Galwan Valley.

Why is China trying to break India's chicken neck?

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