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Ahead of crucial Moscow format talks involving Taliban on Wednesday, the Indian envoy to Russia DB Venkatesh Varma has said both India and Russia "recognize common threats emanating from Afghanistan probably more than any other set of countries". Moscow format of consultations on Afghanistan involves 10 countries, including India, Pakistan, China and will focus on humanitarian crisis emerging in the country and formation of an inclusive government. A joint statement will be adopted after the meeting that is to start around 12 noon local time.

"India and Russia, I believe, may have travelled along different roads - we were not part of the Doha &amp; Troika processes but our destination is common," said the Indian envoy as he spoke to Russia's Kommersant newspaper.

When it comes to the ongoing developments in Afghanistan. Both India and Russia have not recognized the govt announced by Taliban as worries mount over humanitarian crisis emerging in the country with the onset of the winters.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sirajuddin-haqqani-top-taliban-minister-praises-suicide-bombers-422088">Sirajuddin Haqqani, top Taliban minister, praises suicide bombers</a>

Since the fall of Afghan govt led by Ashraf Ghani and Taliban takeover of the country in August, both the countries have had number of conversations on the issues. Russian President Putin spoke to Prime Minister Modi in August following which Secretary of the Russian Security Council General Patrushev visited India and had discussions with Indian National Security Advisor Ajit Doval.

Asked if Taliban will wipe out terrorism from Afghan territory, envoy Varma said, "In the last several months, unfortunately we have seen that Afghanistan is a story of broken promises. Whether the Taliban will stand by their commitments and back words with deeds - we will wait and see."

International concern has been mounting over Afghan territory being used by terror groups. United Nations Security Council Resolution 2593 passed under India's presidency of the security council in August specially mentioned that the country's territory should not be used to shelter and train terrorists among other things.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/amid-soaring-fuel-prices-and-dwindling-cash-reserves-in-afghanistan-taliban-say-all-is-well-421995">Amid soaring fuel prices and dwindling cash reserves in Afghanistan, Taliban say ‘all is well’</a>

Interestingly, the Indian Envoy pointed out how, "India was not allowed to participate in" in Troika plus talks on Afghanistan involving Russia, US, China, plus Pakistan. It is well known that Islamabad was not keen on New Delhi being present in the talks led by Russia.&nbsp;

He also highlighted while Troika plus talks and Doha process "pursued certain objectives" when it comes to Afghanistan "reality turned out to be quite different from what was originally envisaged", tangentially referring to their failure.

Meanwhile, in first official confirmation by the Indian side, the envoy said, "India will be hosting a high-level meeting of NSAs of regional countries in Afghanistan in November".&nbsp;

India has sent invite to Russia, China, Pakistan, Iran, Uzbekistan and other countries in the region for the talks which is seen as a significant outreach by New Delhi on the issue.

Ahead of crucial Moscow format talks involving Taliban on Wednesday, the Indian envoy to Russia DB Venkatesh Varma has said both India and Russia "recognize common threats emanating from Afghanistan probably more than any other set of countries".

Ahead of crucial Moscow format talks involving Taliban on Wednesday, the Indian envoy to Russia DB Venkatesh Varma has said both India and Russia "recognize common threats emanating from Afghanistan probably more than any other set of countries". Moscow format of consultations on Afghanistan involves 10 countries, including India, Pakistan, China and will focus on humanitarian crisis emerging in the country and formation of an inclusive government. A joint statement will be adopted after the meeting that is to start around 12 noon local time. "India and Russia, I believe, may have travelled along different roads - we were not part of the Doha & Troika processes but our destination is common," said the Indian envoy as he spoke to Russia's Kommersant newspaper. When it comes to the ongoing developments in Afghanistan. Both India and Russia have not recognized the govt announced by Taliban as worries mount over humanitarian crisis emerging in the country with the onset of the winters. Also Read | Sirajuddin Haqqani, top Taliban minister, praises suicide bombers Since the fall of Afghan govt led by Ashraf Ghani and Taliban takeover of the country in August, both the countries have had number of conversations on the issues. Russian President Putin spoke to Prime Minister Modi in August following which Secretary of the Russian Security Council General Patrushev visited India and had discussions with Indian National Security Advisor Ajit Doval. Asked if Taliban will wipe out terrorism from Afghan territory, envoy Varma said, "In the last several months, unfortunately we have seen that Afghanistan is a story of broken promises. Whether the Taliban will stand by their commitments and back words with deeds - we will wait and see." International concern has been mounting over Afghan territory being used by terror groups. United Nations Security Council Resolution 2593 passed under India's presidency of the security council in August specially mentioned that the country's territory should not be used to shelter and train terrorists among other things. Also Read | Amid soaring fuel prices and dwindling cash reserves in Afghanistan, Taliban say ‘all is well’ Interestingly, the Indian Envoy pointed out how, "India was not allowed to participate in" in Troika plus talks on Afghanistan involving Russia, US, China, plus Pakistan. It is well known that Islamabad was not keen on New Delhi being present in the talks led by Russia. He also highlighted while Troika plus talks and Doha process "pursued certain objectives" when it comes to Afghanistan "reality turned out to be quite different from what was originally envisaged", tangentially referring to their failure. Meanwhile, in first official confirmation by the Indian side, the envoy said, "India will be hosting a high-level meeting of NSAs of regional countries in Afghanistan in November". India has sent invite to Russia, China, Pakistan, Iran, Uzbekistan and other countries in the region for the talks which is seen as a significant outreach by New Delhi on the issue.

India, Russia recognise common threats coming from Afghanistan: Indian envoy to Russia

According to the Sri Lankan Navy, they rescued two Indian fishermen from a sinking Indian fishing boat that was “poaching” in Sri Lankan waters, across the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL), on Monday.&nbsp;

They added the search and rescue operations were underway to find a third fisherman who was on-board the fishing boat.&nbsp;

Sri Lankan Navy officials maintain that, as they were chasing away Indian fishing vessels, a boat trying to evade them collided with one of their Navy crafts and sank.

“As the said task being put in to practice, one of the Indian fishing trawlers, with aggressive manoeuvres, in resistance of chase away, was on an attempt to evade from the scene making it collided with SLN Craft in operation. In the process it ultimately descended having lost its stability as well as due to the rough sea condition.” read the Lankan Navy statement on Monday’s incident.&nbsp;

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Pics of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Indian?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Indian</a> fishermen from <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/tamilnadu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#tamilnadu</a> who were involved in an incident with SL navy while fishing near Delft island 
 
SL Navy says 2 of them were saved,1 missing ; fishers assn allege that SL navy rammed into them and sank their boat, missing fisherman is dead <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/fishing?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#fishing</a> <a href="https://t.co/aMO3ia1tcv">pic.twitter.com/aMO3ia1tcv</a>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1450400882260996097?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 19, 2021</a></blockquote>
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However, Indian fishermen allege that the Sri Lankan Navy vessel had deliberately crashed into the Indian fishing boat, with the intention of sinking it.&nbsp;

They believe the third person (Rajkiran), who they say was steering the boat from the wheelhouse, was trapped and sank along with the boat.

These three fishermen from Kottapattinam, in Tamil Nadu's Pudukottai district, are said to have&nbsp;been fishing near Delft Island, which lies between Sri Lanka and India, in the Palk Strait.&nbsp;

The two fishermen who were rescued and are in Sri Lankan custody are identified as Xavier and Sakunthran.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pak-claims-indias-submarine-entered-its-waters-indian-sources-call-it-fake-422069" hreflang="en">Pak claims India's submarine entered its waters; Indian sources call it fake</a>

According to India’s National Traditional Fishermen Federation, this incident involving the Sri Lankan Navy is deliberate retribution for another recent untoward incident, which involved an Indian boat.&nbsp;

A few weeks back, a large Indian fishing trawler from Tamil Nadu had collided with and sunk a smaller Lankan fishing boat. While the Lankan boat was fully damaged and lost, the Lankan fishermen survived and returned to the shore.&nbsp;

It is believed that the situation could have been amicably resolved if the Indian government or the Tamil Nadu government had taken some action against the errant boat and offered compensation to the Lankan fishermen.&nbsp;

The local fishermen also see an unfortunate similarity between Monday’s incident and one that took place in January this year. According to them, in January, the Lankan Navy had rammed their boats into an Indian boat, following which the bodies of the four fishermen were returned to the Indians.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/must-convert-it-to-usable-cash-visually-challenged-senior-approaches-collector-with-65k-in-demonetised-cash-422086" hreflang="en">'Must convert it to usable cash', visually challenged senior approaches collector with 65k in demonetised cash</a>

The fishermen believe that holding talks between Indian and Sri Lankan fishermen would help resolve some of the misunderstandings that stem from the recent collision and alleged instances of trespasses.&nbsp;

Fishermen in Northern Sri Lanka have recently protested against Indian boats, that have been allegedly venturing into their waters to engage in illegal fishing activities. They have also made attempts to pressure the Indian and Sri Lankan authorities to take action against those involved in illegal fishing.

According to the Sri Lankan Navy, they rescued two Indian fishermen from a sinking Indian fishing boat that was “poaching” in Sri Lankan waters, across the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL), on Monday.

According to the Sri Lankan Navy, they rescued two Indian fishermen from a sinking Indian fishing boat that was “poaching” in Sri Lankan waters, across the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL), on Monday. They added the search and rescue operations were underway to find a third fisherman who was on-board the fishing boat. Sri Lankan Navy officials maintain that, as they were chasing away Indian fishing vessels, a boat trying to evade them collided with one of their Navy crafts and sank. “As the said task being put in to practice, one of the Indian fishing trawlers, with aggressive manoeuvres, in resistance of chase away, was on an attempt to evade from the scene making it collided with SLN Craft in operation. In the process it ultimately descended having lost its stability as well as due to the rough sea condition.” read the Lankan Navy statement on Monday’s incident. Pics of #Indian fishermen from #tamilnadu who were involved in an incident with SL navy while fishing near Delft island SL Navy says 2 of them were saved,1 missing ; fishers assn allege that SL navy rammed into them and sank their boat, missing fisherman is dead #fishing pic.twitter.com/aMO3ia1tcv — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) October 19, 2021 × However, Indian fishermen allege that the Sri Lankan Navy vessel had deliberately crashed into the Indian fishing boat, with the intention of sinking it. They believe the third person (Rajkiran), who they say was steering the boat from the wheelhouse, was trapped and sank along with the boat. These three fishermen from Kottapattinam, in Tamil Nadu's Pudukottai district, are said to have been fishing near Delft Island, which lies between Sri Lanka and India, in the Palk Strait. The two fishermen who were rescued and are in Sri Lankan custody are identified as Xavier and Sakunthran. Also read | Pak claims India's submarine entered its waters; Indian sources call it fake According to India’s National Traditional Fishermen Federation, this incident involving the Sri Lankan Navy is deliberate retribution for another recent untoward incident, which involved an Indian boat. A few weeks back, a large Indian fishing trawler from Tamil Nadu had collided with and sunk a smaller Lankan fishing boat. While the Lankan boat was fully damaged and lost, the Lankan fishermen survived and returned to the shore. It is believed that the situation could have been amicably resolved if the Indian government or the Tamil Nadu government had taken some action against the errant boat and offered compensation to the Lankan fishermen. The local fishermen also see an unfortunate similarity between Monday’s incident and one that took place in January this year. According to them, in January, the Lankan Navy had rammed their boats into an Indian boat, following which the bodies of the four fishermen were returned to the Indians. Also read | 'Must convert it to usable cash', visually challenged senior approaches collector with 65k in demonetised cash The fishermen believe that holding talks between Indian and Sri Lankan fishermen would help resolve some of the misunderstandings that stem from the recent collision and alleged instances of trespasses. Fishermen in Northern Sri Lanka have recently protested against Indian boats, that have been allegedly venturing into their waters to engage in illegal fishing activities. They have also made attempts to pressure the Indian and Sri Lankan authorities to take action against those involved in illegal fishing.

Sri Lankan Navy says 2 Indian fishermen rescued, 1 missing; Fishermen allege Navy sank boat

In an unfortunate turn of events, Chinnakannu, a visually challenged septuagenarian in Tamil Nadu recently realized that his life savings held in cash were not even worth the paper it was printed on.

Living off the alms offered by people, the destitute senior citizen over several years managed to save INR 65,000 and had kept the savings in a place he considered safe.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-couple-wade-through-floodwater-in-improvised-vessel-to-tie-the-knot-braving-all-elements-421793" hreflang="en">Indian couple wade through floodwater in ‘improvised vessel’ to tie the knot, braving all elements</a>

However, owing to illness and other factors, he, unfortunately, had forgotten all about his cash savings.

Only recently did the elderly person come to know of demonetization, which was announced on November 8th&nbsp;2016, by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.&nbsp;

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Chinnakannu, a Visually-challenged septuagenarian, seen at Krishnagiri, Collector Office, with a wad of demonetized Rs.1000&amp;500 notes amounting to Rs.65K 
 
He hopes to get it converted to usable cash.. he had kept the money safely &amp; had forgotten about it for many yrs.. <a href="https://t.co/FOiarsh7N2">pic.twitter.com/FOiarsh7N2</a>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1450433158743093255?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 19, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Apparently, a friend of his told him that the 'old notes' were useless.

It was on Monday that the senior citizen approached the Krishnagiri district collector, with the help of a cobbler.

The senior citizen has petitioned the collector to help him out in converting the demonetized currency (consisting of Rs1000 and 500 notes) into legal tender.&nbsp;

The issue came to light after pictures and videos of the visually challenged person holding a wad of invalid currency notes were widely shared on social media.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/all-six-members-of-a-family-spanning-across-three-generations-killed-in-kerala-floods-421912" hreflang="en">All six members of a family, spanning across three generations killed in Kerala floods</a>

In the video, Chinnakannu says that he found the cash only on Sunday and realized about the notes being illegal tender and that he didn’t know about this earlier. He added that he was in the Collector office to ensure that this currency can be converted into usable currency (legal tender).&nbsp;

In an unfortunate turn of events, Chinnakannu, a visually challenged septuagenarian in Tamil Nadu recently realized that his life savings held in cash were not even worth the paper it was printed on.

In an unfortunate turn of events, Chinnakannu, a visually challenged septuagenarian in Tamil Nadu recently realized that his life savings held in cash were not even worth the paper it was printed on. Living off the alms offered by people, the destitute senior citizen over several years managed to save INR 65,000 and had kept the savings in a place he considered safe. Also read | Indian couple wade through floodwater in ‘improvised vessel’ to tie the knot, braving all elements However, owing to illness and other factors, he, unfortunately, had forgotten all about his cash savings. Only recently did the elderly person come to know of demonetization, which was announced on November 8th 2016, by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Chinnakannu, a Visually-challenged septuagenarian, seen at Krishnagiri, Collector Office, with a wad of demonetized Rs.1000&500 notes amounting to Rs.65K He hopes to get it converted to usable cash.. he had kept the money safely & had forgotten about it for many yrs.. pic.twitter.com/FOiarsh7N2 — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) October 19, 2021 × Apparently, a friend of his told him that the 'old notes' were useless. It was on Monday that the senior citizen approached the Krishnagiri district collector, with the help of a cobbler. The senior citizen has petitioned the collector to help him out in converting the demonetized currency (consisting of Rs1000 and 500 notes) into legal tender. The issue came to light after pictures and videos of the visually challenged person holding a wad of invalid currency notes were widely shared on social media. Also read | All six members of a family, spanning across three generations killed in Kerala floods In the video, Chinnakannu says that he found the cash only on Sunday and realized about the notes being illegal tender and that he didn’t know about this earlier. He added that he was in the Collector office to ensure that this currency can be converted into usable currency (legal tender).

'Must convert it to usable cash', visually challenged senior approaches collector with 65k in demonetised cash

Pakistan's ISPR claimed it had detected an Indian naval submarine and blocked it from entering its waters last Saturday as Indian sources dismissed it as usual Pakistan propaganda.

ISPR released a video which&nbsp;allegedly shows an Indian submarine, however, it has not been independently verified.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/india-army-vs-pakistan-army-how-two-military-forces-stack-up-against-each-other-417849">Also Read|&nbsp; India Army vs Pakistan Army: How two military forces stack up against each other</a>

Indian source dismissed Pakistan's claim asserting that professional navies conduct patrols in enemy territory&nbsp;fully submerged.&nbsp;

Pakistan claimed the Indian submarine was “prematurely detected and tracked" by its "maritime patrol aircraft".

The video was released as "actual footage of Indian submarine detection" but it hasn't been verified by any independent agency.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/there-is-peace-in-kashmir-pakistan-army-misguides-us-says-arrested-teenage-terrorist-416810">Also Read |&nbsp;There is peace in Kashmir, Pakistan Army misguides us, says arrested teenage terrorist</a>

The 31-second video shows&nbsp;an object in the water being trailed from the air with the incident taking place at night at 11:18 pm on October 16. Indian sources dismissed it as a fake video.&nbsp;

Pakistan's military two years ago had made a similar claim while releasing a video which wasn't verified.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/intelligence-agencies-reveal-pakistan-armys-strategy-to-unleash-terror-in-jk-336337">Also Read |&nbsp;Intelligence agencies reveal Pakistan Army's strategy to unleash terror in J&amp;K</a>

In the video, the Pakistan navy claimed it had reportedly thwarted an attempt by an Indian submarine to enter Pakistani waters, however, it provided no proof on the authenticity of the video.

(With inputs from Agencies)

Pakistan's ISPR claimed it had detected an Indian naval submarine and blocked it from entering its waters last Saturday as Indian sources dismissed it as usual Pakistan propaganda.

Pakistan's ISPR claimed it had detected an Indian naval submarine and blocked it from entering its waters last Saturday as Indian sources dismissed it as usual Pakistan propaganda. ISPR released a video which allegedly shows an Indian submarine, however, it has not been independently verified. Also Read| India Army vs Pakistan Army: How two military forces stack up against each other Indian source dismissed Pakistan's claim asserting that professional navies conduct patrols in enemy territory fully submerged. Pakistan claimed the Indian submarine was “prematurely detected and tracked" by its "maritime patrol aircraft". The video was released as "actual footage of Indian submarine detection" but it hasn't been verified by any independent agency. Also Read | There is peace in Kashmir, Pakistan Army misguides us, says arrested teenage terrorist The 31-second video shows an object in the water being trailed from the air with the incident taking place at night at 11:18 pm on October 16. Indian sources dismissed it as a fake video. Pakistan's military two years ago had made a similar claim while releasing a video which wasn't verified. Also Read | Intelligence agencies reveal Pakistan Army's strategy to unleash terror in J&K In the video, the Pakistan navy claimed it had reportedly thwarted an attempt by an Indian submarine to enter Pakistani waters, however, it provided no proof on the authenticity of the video. (With inputs from Agencies)

Pak claims India's submarine entered its waters; Indian sources call it fake

Twitter account of Congress party unit in southern Indian state of Karnataka has deleted a tweet that called&nbsp;Prime Minister Narendra Modi 'angootha-chhaap' (illiterate). A political slugfest soon erupted after the tweet was posted on Monday (October 18).

"Congress built schools but Modi never went to study. Congress even set up schemes for adults to learn, Modi didn't learn there too. &nbsp;People who chose to beg for a living despite beggary being prohibited are today pushing citizens to beggary. Country is suffering because of "#angoothachhaap modi," read the tweet made in the state's Kannada language. The tweet has now been deleted.

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The tweet, seen as a personal attack on PM Modi, resulted in angry reactions from BJP.

“Only the Congress could stoop so low,” said Karnataka BJP spokesperson Malavika Avinash

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-man-wants-covid-certificate-without-pm-modis-picture-422025">Indian man wants Covid certificate without PM Modi's picture</a>

The Congress admitted that the tweet used unparliamentary language. Karnataka Congress spokesperson Lavanya Ballal admitted that tone of the tweet was 'unfortunate'. She said an inquiry would be conducted.&nbsp;

Karnataka Congress chief DK Shivakumar said on Twitter later that the earlier tweet calling PM Modi illiterate fell shoft of "civil and parliamentary language". He blamed the tweet on a 'novice social media manager'.

"I have always believed that civil and parliamentary language is a non-negotiable pre-requisite for political discourse. An uncivil tweet made by a novice social media manager through the Karnataka Congress official Twitter handle is regretted and stands withdrawn," he tweeted.

The controversy erupted just ahead of bypolls in assembly constituencies of Sindagi and Hangal. The bypolls will take place on October 30.

Twitter account of Congress party unit in southern Indian state of Karnataka has deleted a tweet that called Prime Minister Narendra Modi 'angootha-chhaap' (illiterate).

Twitter account of Congress party unit in southern Indian state of Karnataka has deleted a tweet that called Prime Minister Narendra Modi 'angootha-chhaap' (illiterate). A political slugfest soon erupted after the tweet was posted on Monday (October 18). "Congress built schools but Modi never went to study. Congress even set up schemes for adults to learn, Modi didn't learn there too. People who chose to beg for a living despite beggary being prohibited are today pushing citizens to beggary. Country is suffering because of "#angoothachhaap modi," read the tweet made in the state's Kannada language. The tweet has now been deleted. The tweet, seen as a personal attack on PM Modi, resulted in angry reactions from BJP. “Only the Congress could stoop so low,” said Karnataka BJP spokesperson Malavika Avinash Also Read | Indian man wants Covid certificate without PM Modi's picture The Congress admitted that the tweet used unparliamentary language. Karnataka Congress spokesperson Lavanya Ballal admitted that tone of the tweet was 'unfortunate'. She said an inquiry would be conducted. Karnataka Congress chief DK Shivakumar said on Twitter later that the earlier tweet calling PM Modi illiterate fell shoft of "civil and parliamentary language". He blamed the tweet on a 'novice social media manager'. "I have always believed that civil and parliamentary language is a non-negotiable pre-requisite for political discourse. An uncivil tweet made by a novice social media manager through the Karnataka Congress official Twitter handle is regretted and stands withdrawn," he tweeted. The controversy erupted just ahead of bypolls in assembly constituencies of Sindagi and Hangal. The bypolls will take place on October 30.

Congress deletes tweet that called PM Modi 'illiterate'

The Kerala High Court issued a notice to the Centre and the state government on October 8, 2021, in response to a suit filed by Peter M demanding Covid-19 certificates devoid of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's photograph.

Peter M stated that the vaccination certificates that are now being distributed violate a citizen's basic rights.

The petitioner requested a certificate that did not include the prime minister's photograph. 
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<h5>Peter M, 62, is a member of India's main opposition Congress party and a right to information campaigner.</h5>
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Both governments have two weeks to submit their positions.

Peter M is particularly irritated since he had to pay for his own vaccination at a private hospital because "there was a huge line for appointments at government facilities" that provided free vaccinations.

"I spent Rs 750 for each jab, so why should PM Modi's picture be on my certificate?" he questions.&nbsp; 
 
Peter M, 62, is a member of India's main opposition Congress party and a right to information campaigner.

Political opponents have also criticised the prime minister's photo on the vaccination certificate.

Several opposition-ruled states have even replaced his photograph with those of their own chief ministers.&nbsp;

Previously, the Union government justified its choice to include the photograph in the certificate, claiming that the image of the Prime Minister, together with his remarks, helps to raise general awareness and Covid-appropriate behaviour.

When an issue was raised in the upper chamber two months ago, Minister of State for Health BP Pawar stated the Prime Minister's portrait was perfect for raising awareness.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The Kerala High Court issued a notice to the Centre and the state government on October 8, 2021, in response to a suit filed by Peter M demanding Covid-19 certificates devoid of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's photograph.

The Kerala High Court issued a notice to the Centre and the state government on October 8, 2021, in response to a suit filed by Peter M demanding Covid-19 certificates devoid of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's photograph. Peter M stated that the vaccination certificates that are now being distributed violate a citizen's basic rights. The petitioner requested a certificate that did not include the prime minister's photograph. Peter M, 62, is a member of India's main opposition Congress party and a right to information campaigner. × Both governments have two weeks to submit their positions. Peter M is particularly irritated since he had to pay for his own vaccination at a private hospital because "there was a huge line for appointments at government facilities" that provided free vaccinations. "I spent Rs 750 for each jab, so why should PM Modi's picture be on my certificate?" he questions. Peter M, 62, is a member of India's main opposition Congress party and a right to information campaigner. Political opponents have also criticised the prime minister's photo on the vaccination certificate. Several opposition-ruled states have even replaced his photograph with those of their own chief ministers. Previously, the Union government justified its choice to include the photograph in the certificate, claiming that the image of the Prime Minister, together with his remarks, helps to raise general awareness and Covid-appropriate behaviour. When an issue was raised in the upper chamber two months ago, Minister of State for Health BP Pawar stated the Prime Minister's portrait was perfect for raising awareness. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian man wants Covid certificate without PM Modi's picture

Chief Minister of the northern Indian state of Uttarakhand said on Tuesday that 11 more people were killed in the flood-like situation in the state taking the death toll to 16. Heavy rains have caused floods. Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami said Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah have been briefed on the situation in the state.

"Eleven people died today, while five were killed yesterday. Many people also are feared to be trapped under the debris. Rescue teams are working hard. We have sought help from the Army. Two Army choppers will deploy in Nanital and one in the Garhwal regions. Houses, bridges have been damaged at many places," said Dhami.

"Farmers have also suffered a loss due to flood and the amount of damage that has happened is also being assessed. I will also conduct aerial and on-site surveys," he said.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-logs-13058-new-covid-19-infections-lowest-rise-in-daily-cases-in-231-days-421951">India logs 13,058 new COVID-19 infections, lowest rise in daily cases in 231 days</a>

Dhami appealed to people to be patient as the government was doing all the possible things that were needed to be done.

"Due to heavy rains, the rescue team is facing difficulty but we will rescue everyone. The meteorological department has also said that from today the rain will be less, we appeal to all the people to not travel till the situation is normal," he added.

Following heavy rains, all gates of Nanak Sagar Dam in Uttarakhand's Udham Singh Nagar have been opened due to rise in water level.

The India Metrological Department has also predicted a significant reduction in rainfall activity from today in the state.

"Significant reduction in rainfall activity likely over Uttarakhand from today. Isolated to scattered rain/snow over Himachal Pradesh on 22-23 October, and isolated to scattered rainfall over Uttarakhand, Punjab, Haryana, northwest Rajasthan on 23 October," said IMD

Earlier today, PM Modi spoke to Uttarakhand Chief Minister to take stock of the situation arising due to heavy rains in the state. As a precautionary measure, the Badrinath Yatra has also been halted and passengers en route to Badrinath were stopped in safe places.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Chief Minister of the northern Indian state of Uttarakhand said on Tuesday that 11 more people were killed in the flood-like situation in the state taking the death toll to 16.

Chief Minister of the northern Indian state of Uttarakhand said on Tuesday that 11 more people were killed in the flood-like situation in the state taking the death toll to 16. Heavy rains have caused floods. Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami said Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah have been briefed on the situation in the state. "Eleven people died today, while five were killed yesterday. Many people also are feared to be trapped under the debris. Rescue teams are working hard. We have sought help from the Army. Two Army choppers will deploy in Nanital and one in the Garhwal regions. Houses, bridges have been damaged at many places," said Dhami. "Farmers have also suffered a loss due to flood and the amount of damage that has happened is also being assessed. I will also conduct aerial and on-site surveys," he said. Also Read | India logs 13,058 new COVID-19 infections, lowest rise in daily cases in 231 days Dhami appealed to people to be patient as the government was doing all the possible things that were needed to be done. "Due to heavy rains, the rescue team is facing difficulty but we will rescue everyone. The meteorological department has also said that from today the rain will be less, we appeal to all the people to not travel till the situation is normal," he added. Following heavy rains, all gates of Nanak Sagar Dam in Uttarakhand's Udham Singh Nagar have been opened due to rise in water level. The India Metrological Department has also predicted a significant reduction in rainfall activity from today in the state. "Significant reduction in rainfall activity likely over Uttarakhand from today. Isolated to scattered rain/snow over Himachal Pradesh on 22-23 October, and isolated to scattered rainfall over Uttarakhand, Punjab, Haryana, northwest Rajasthan on 23 October," said IMD Earlier today, PM Modi spoke to Uttarakhand Chief Minister to take stock of the situation arising due to heavy rains in the state. As a precautionary measure, the Badrinath Yatra has also been halted and passengers en route to Badrinath were stopped in safe places. (With inputs from agencies)

Heavy rains, floods kill 16 in India's Uttarakhand

In pics | Indo-US joint army training exercise underway in Alaska

Eastern Army Commander Lieutenant General Manoj Pande on Tuesday said the Chinese Army's activities have increased marginally in-depth areas across the Line of Actual Control (LAC) which is under tight surveillance of the Indian Army.

"The annual training exercise that the People`s Liberation Army (PLA) carries out, there has been some increase in the level of activities but that is in the depth areas.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amid-civilian-killings-indian-army-chief-visits-jammu-to-review-security-situation-421953">Amid civilian killings, Indian Army chief visits Jammu to review security situation</a>

Some of the reserve formations of the PLA which were mobilised have continued to remain in their training areas but that again is in operational depth.

We have enhanced our surveillance both in LAC and depth areas," Lieutenant General Pande said. Eastern Army commander mentioned that both sides are attempting to develop infrastructure closer to LAC which leads to certain issues at times.

"As per their (PLA) strategy model, villages have come up near the border. It is a matter of concern how that can be used.&nbsp;We have taken cognisance of this in our plans," he added.

There has been a marginal increase in the border defence troops, who are already deployed at the LAC.

Talking about the steps and measures taken by the Army in terms of surveillance, Lieutenant General Pande said, "We have taken a number of steps and measure. The foremost would be enhancing our surveillance in both -- on the Line of Actual Control as well as depth areas. This is what we are doing by synergising efforts of all our surveillance resources, right from strategic level till the tactical level."

Lt Gen Pande assured that adequate forces are available in each sector to deal with any contingencies that may arise said, "We are also practising and rehearsing contingencies that may come up."

"In certain areas, we have strengthened the deployment. Largely, there has been no major increase or increment in terms of the number of forces that we have deployed at LAC," he added.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/11-civilians-killed-in-october-alone-in-terrorist-attacks-in-jk-421659">11 civilians killed in October alone in terrorist attacks in J&amp;K</a>

Eastern army commander reiterated that Army is looking at maximising the potential of incorporating technology to the maximum extent possible.

"We have inducted surveillance drones, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and have better surveillance radars, better communication systems, better night vision ability. Introduction of technology has remained one of our key areas and a number of steps are taken towards it," he said.

On October 10, the 13th round of the India-China Corps Commander-level meeting was held at the Chushul-Moldo border meeting point.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Eastern Army Commander Lieutenant General Manoj Pande on Tuesday said the Chinese Army's activities have increased marginally in-depth areas across the Line of Actual Control (LAC) which is under tight surveillance of the Indian Army.

Eastern Army Commander Lieutenant General Manoj Pande on Tuesday said the Chinese Army's activities have increased marginally in-depth areas across the Line of Actual Control (LAC) which is under tight surveillance of the Indian Army. "The annual training exercise that the People`s Liberation Army (PLA) carries out, there has been some increase in the level of activities but that is in the depth areas. Also Read | Amid civilian killings, Indian Army chief visits Jammu to review security situation Some of the reserve formations of the PLA which were mobilised have continued to remain in their training areas but that again is in operational depth. We have enhanced our surveillance both in LAC and depth areas," Lieutenant General Pande said. Eastern Army commander mentioned that both sides are attempting to develop infrastructure closer to LAC which leads to certain issues at times. "As per their (PLA) strategy model, villages have come up near the border. It is a matter of concern how that can be used. We have taken cognisance of this in our plans," he added. There has been a marginal increase in the border defence troops, who are already deployed at the LAC. Talking about the steps and measures taken by the Army in terms of surveillance, Lieutenant General Pande said, "We have taken a number of steps and measure. The foremost would be enhancing our surveillance in both -- on the Line of Actual Control as well as depth areas. This is what we are doing by synergising efforts of all our surveillance resources, right from strategic level till the tactical level." Lt Gen Pande assured that adequate forces are available in each sector to deal with any contingencies that may arise said, "We are also practising and rehearsing contingencies that may come up." "In certain areas, we have strengthened the deployment. Largely, there has been no major increase or increment in terms of the number of forces that we have deployed at LAC," he added. Also Read | 11 civilians killed in October alone in terrorist attacks in J&K Eastern army commander reiterated that Army is looking at maximising the potential of incorporating technology to the maximum extent possible. "We have inducted surveillance drones, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and have better surveillance radars, better communication systems, better night vision ability. Introduction of technology has remained one of our key areas and a number of steps are taken towards it," he said. On October 10, the 13th round of the India-China Corps Commander-level meeting was held at the Chushul-Moldo border meeting point.

LAC under constant surveillance amid increased activities of Chinese Army: Eastern Army commander

Israel will today officially start the process of joining the India based International Solar Alliance (ISA).&nbsp;

Based out of Gurugram, ISA has 124 countries as its members and aims to harness solar energy to reduce dependency on fossil fuels.&nbsp;

Israel's energy minister Karine Elharrar will officially sign the agreement on her country's accession to the International Solar Alliance in the presence of Israeli Foreign minister Yair Lapid and Indian External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar.

ISA was launched by Indian PM Modi and the then French President, Francois Hollande, at the Paris climate summit in 2015.&nbsp;

The fourth assembly of the alliance is on October 20 and will see an address by US Special Presidential Envoy for Climate John Kerry, European Commission Executive Vice President for the European Green Deal, Frans Timmermans.

India's external affairs minister, Dr S Jaishankar, is in Israel currently, his first visit in his current capacity. On the first day, he met members of the Israeli chambers of commerce and interacted with the Indian Jewish Community and Indologists.&nbsp;

During his address to the Indian Jewish community, he highlighted, the role of Jews in India — David Sassoon was the founder of Bank of India, one of the lawyers who defended Bal Gangadhar Tilak in 2016 was David Erulkar, who was a Jew, Dr Jerusha Jhirad who was awarded Padma Shri was a Jew.&nbsp;

He said, "People of my generation grew up with the signature tune of All India Radio that was composed by a Jewish exile in India, Walter Kauffman".

The EAM started day one by paying homage to the Indian soldiers who died in World War One by visiting the Indian cemetery at Talpiot.&nbsp;

Indian soldiers played a key role in the Battle of Haifa in 1918. During the 2018 visit of the then Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu, the name of Teen Murti Chowk was formally rechristened as Teen Murti Haifa Chowk.&nbsp;

The three statues at the chowk in the heart of Central Delhi belong to the Hyderabad, Jodhpur, and Mysore Lancers, who were part of the British India forces who helped win the battle of Haifa.

The visit is part of increased engagement between the Indian and Israeli governments.&nbsp;

A spokesperson for the Israeli Embassy in India, Muhamed Heib, said, "The visit will mark the beginning of the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries, and it will include high-level meetings. We look forward to a successful visit during which agreements will be signed, and the strategic partnership between the two countries will be strengthened".

During the visit, EAM will also call on President, the Prime Minister, and the Knesset Speaker. India and Israel elevated bilateral relations to a Strategic Partnership during the historic visit of PM Narendra Modi to Israel in July 2017.

Israel will today officially start the process of joining the India based International Solar Alliance (ISA). Based out of Gurugram, ISA has 124 countries as its members and aims to harness solar energy to reduce dependency on fossil fuels.

Israel will today officially start the process of joining the India based International Solar Alliance (ISA). Based out of Gurugram, ISA has 124 countries as its members and aims to harness solar energy to reduce dependency on fossil fuels. Israel's energy minister Karine Elharrar will officially sign the agreement on her country's accession to the International Solar Alliance in the presence of Israeli Foreign minister Yair Lapid and Indian External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar. ISA was launched by Indian PM Modi and the then French President, Francois Hollande, at the Paris climate summit in 2015. The fourth assembly of the alliance is on October 20 and will see an address by US Special Presidential Envoy for Climate John Kerry, European Commission Executive Vice President for the European Green Deal, Frans Timmermans. India's external affairs minister, Dr S Jaishankar, is in Israel currently, his first visit in his current capacity. On the first day, he met members of the Israeli chambers of commerce and interacted with the Indian Jewish Community and Indologists. During his address to the Indian Jewish community, he highlighted, the role of Jews in India — David Sassoon was the founder of Bank of India, one of the lawyers who defended Bal Gangadhar Tilak in 2016 was David Erulkar, who was a Jew, Dr Jerusha Jhirad who was awarded Padma Shri was a Jew. He said, "People of my generation grew up with the signature tune of All India Radio that was composed by a Jewish exile in India, Walter Kauffman". The EAM started day one by paying homage to the Indian soldiers who died in World War One by visiting the Indian cemetery at Talpiot. Indian soldiers played a key role in the Battle of Haifa in 1918. During the 2018 visit of the then Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu, the name of Teen Murti Chowk was formally rechristened as Teen Murti Haifa Chowk. The three statues at the chowk in the heart of Central Delhi belong to the Hyderabad, Jodhpur, and Mysore Lancers, who were part of the British India forces who helped win the battle of Haifa. The visit is part of increased engagement between the Indian and Israeli governments. A spokesperson for the Israeli Embassy in India, Muhamed Heib, said, "The visit will mark the beginning of the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries, and it will include high-level meetings. We look forward to a successful visit during which agreements will be signed, and the strategic partnership between the two countries will be strengthened". During the visit, EAM will also call on President, the Prime Minister, and the Knesset Speaker. India and Israel elevated bilateral relations to a Strategic Partnership during the historic visit of PM Narendra Modi to Israel in July 2017.

Israel to join India based International Solar Alliance

India is set to cross&nbsp;an important milestone of administering a billion vaccine doses by the third week of October. After this, the nation will take a call on the resumption of export&nbsp;of locally-made vaccines against the deadly coronavirus, said Union health minister Mansukh Mandaviya.&nbsp;

As of Thursday, total vaccine doses administered in the country crossed 970 million. 73 per cent of all adults have received at least the first vaccine dose, and 30 per cent having been fully vaccinated against COVID-19, said the health minister.

India is yet to start vaccinations of those under the age of 18. Another vaccine for those in the 12-18 age group, ZyCoV-D was approved on August 20.

In order to mark the occasion, public announcements at airports, railways stations, shipping ports, bus stations and metro rails will be made as&nbsp;India administers a billion COVID-19 vaccine doses.

As the biggest vaccination campaign in history is underway worldwide,&nbsp;more than 6.66 billion doses have been administered across 184 countries.

As of now, only China has administered more vaccine doses than India as of&nbsp;October 10.&nbsp;China had administered about 2.22 billion doses of the coronavirus vaccine.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/as-covid-19-creates-new-poor-heres-how-india-is-progressing-to-eradicate-extreme-poverty-421445">Also read |&nbsp;As COVID-19 creates 'new poor', here's how India is progressing to eradicate extreme poverty</a>

The vaccines developed by the Chinese pharmaceutical companies, Sinovac and Sinopharm, have received approvals and advance purchase agreements in countries like Brazil, Turkey, and Indonesia.

In the US, 407 million doses have been given so far. In the last week, an average of 675,562 doses per day were administered.

Recently, Pfizer had asked the US government to approve the use of its COVID-19 vaccine in children aged 5 to 11 years old, and if regulators agree, inoculation&nbsp;may start within weeks.

Data by Bloomberg reveals that globally, the latest vaccination rate is 26,193,513 doses per day&nbsp;on average. At this pace, it will take another 6 months to cover 75 per cent of the population.

Israel was the first to achieve a successful vaccination rate. The country led the world in early vaccinations, and by February more than 84 per cent of people aged 70 and older had received two doses.&nbsp;

Since the start of the global vaccination campaign, countries have been racing&nbsp;to gain access to the vaccine and then administering the dose to their citizens. The European Union has administered a total of 580,084,270 doses, followed by the US at 406,570,875 doses, reveals a Bloomberg report.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-new-zealand-vaccinates-25-population-in-one-day-421337">Also read |&nbsp;COVID-19: New Zealand vaccinates 2.5% population in one day</a>

After this, comes Brazil (256,425,302 doses), Japan (178,255,509 doses), Indonesia (170,235,796 doses), Turkey (113,862,236 doses), Mexico (113,862,236 doses), and Germany (109,892,041 doses).&nbsp;

New Zealand, also recently, set a new record as it managed to vaccinate 2.5 per cent of its population within a single day. The jump in vaccination drive comes at a time when the country is struggling to recover from a recent surge of coronavirus cases.

The deadly coronavirus pandemic has reversed decades of progress, however, with the growing vaccination rate, there is still a chance to battle the COVID-19 virus and revive the global economy.

India is set to cross an important milestone of administering a billion vaccine doses by the third week of October. After this, the nation will take a call on the resumption of export of locally-made vaccines against the deadly coronavirus, said Union health minister Mansukh Mandaviya.

India is set to cross an important milestone of administering a billion vaccine doses by the third week of October. After this, the nation will take a call on the resumption of export of locally-made vaccines against the deadly coronavirus, said Union health minister Mansukh Mandaviya. As of Thursday, total vaccine doses administered in the country crossed 970 million. 73 per cent of all adults have received at least the first vaccine dose, and 30 per cent having been fully vaccinated against COVID-19, said the health minister. India is yet to start vaccinations of those under the age of 18. Another vaccine for those in the 12-18 age group, ZyCoV-D was approved on August 20. In order to mark the occasion, public announcements at airports, railways stations, shipping ports, bus stations and metro rails will be made as India administers a billion COVID-19 vaccine doses. As the biggest vaccination campaign in history is underway worldwide, more than 6.66 billion doses have been administered across 184 countries. As of now, only China has administered more vaccine doses than India as of October 10. China had administered about 2.22 billion doses of the coronavirus vaccine. Also read | As COVID-19 creates 'new poor', here's how India is progressing to eradicate extreme poverty The vaccines developed by the Chinese pharmaceutical companies, Sinovac and Sinopharm, have received approvals and advance purchase agreements in countries like Brazil, Turkey, and Indonesia. In the US, 407 million doses have been given so far. In the last week, an average of 675,562 doses per day were administered. Recently, Pfizer had asked the US government to approve the use of its COVID-19 vaccine in children aged 5 to 11 years old, and if regulators agree, inoculation may start within weeks. Data by Bloomberg reveals that globally, the latest vaccination rate is 26,193,513 doses per day on average. At this pace, it will take another 6 months to cover 75 per cent of the population. Israel was the first to achieve a successful vaccination rate. The country led the world in early vaccinations, and by February more than 84 per cent of people aged 70 and older had received two doses. Since the start of the global vaccination campaign, countries have been racing to gain access to the vaccine and then administering the dose to their citizens. The European Union has administered a total of 580,084,270 doses, followed by the US at 406,570,875 doses, reveals a Bloomberg report. Also read | COVID-19: New Zealand vaccinates 2.5% population in one day After this, comes Brazil (256,425,302 doses), Japan (178,255,509 doses), Indonesia (170,235,796 doses), Turkey (113,862,236 doses), Mexico (113,862,236 doses), and Germany (109,892,041 doses). New Zealand, also recently, set a new record as it managed to vaccinate 2.5 per cent of its population within a single day. The jump in vaccination drive comes at a time when the country is struggling to recover from a recent surge of coronavirus cases. The deadly coronavirus pandemic has reversed decades of progress, however, with the growing vaccination rate, there is still a chance to battle the COVID-19 virus and revive the global economy.

As India eyes new milestone, a look at how vaccination campaign has unfolded worldwide

Schools&nbsp;in India have reopened with kids back in classrooms, however, they haven't been vaccinated.&nbsp;India's Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) is yet to approve Covaxin for children despite its expert committee's recommendation.

The body says it is seeking additional technical opinion&nbsp;since the prevalence of infections among kids is still low.

In most Indian states, classrooms have been functioning with 50 per cent capacity along with mandatory screening, wider seating arrangements and staggered lunch breaks.&nbsp;

India's festive season is underway currently which invites potential gatherings across the nation. It is a critical phase as the virus can spread again. Although there are life-saving vaccines and the Niti Aayoog has asserted there are no dearth of vaccines but they aren't being administered to children in the age group of 2-18 to be specific.

The clearances to vaccinate them have been given, however, the rollout is yet to begin. The big question is should the process be fast-tracked? The indications are strong across the world that the Delta variant has been infecting children.

In the United States, adolescents and children now account for more than one-fifth of the new cases with 22 per cent infection cases. In the United Kingdom, 1 in 14 students in secondary schools have caught the virus and in Brazil, the virus yielded a troubling trend - an alarming number of deaths in kids and adolescents.

Now, all three countries have started immunising their children. In fact, more than 25 countries have been administering doses to those above 12 years of age, some countries have vaccinated children below that bracket.

Most of these countries have already dealt with or are dealing with the second wave of the virus.

In India, last week the subject expert committee(SEC), a body constituted by the Drug Controller General of India recommended inoculating children in the 2-18 age group. The recommendation was made after trials were carried out on 525 children.

The regulator usually takes a day or two to execute such recommendations but this time it has been a week and India's apex drug regulator is yet to approve Covaxin for children.

It has attributed the delay to "additional technical opinion" which is being sought currently.

VK Paul, chief of India's Covid task force says technical opinion is required because they want the decision to be taken based on "scientific rationale", also based on the supply situation of the child licensed vaccines.&nbsp;

"A pragmatic decision can be taken by balancing the supply and the potential eligibility. COVID-19 infections in children are very mild or asymptomatic and that is one side of the story. On the other side, once there is enough vaccine available that can be used in children," VK Paul said.

The low prevalence of infections among Indian children is being taken into account before the doses are made available.

The situation in the US and UK currently shows that children are at risk, therefore, vaccinating kids could be key in preventing another devastating surge of infections even though "scientific rationale" should be taken into account but as should be data, evidence and global trends.

Schools in India have reopened with kids back in classrooms, however, they haven't been vaccinated. India's Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) is yet to approve Covaxin for children despite its expert committee's recommendation.

Schools in India have reopened with kids back in classrooms, however, they haven't been vaccinated. India's Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) is yet to approve Covaxin for children despite its expert committee's recommendation. The body says it is seeking additional technical opinion since the prevalence of infections among kids is still low. In most Indian states, classrooms have been functioning with 50 per cent capacity along with mandatory screening, wider seating arrangements and staggered lunch breaks. India's festive season is underway currently which invites potential gatherings across the nation. It is a critical phase as the virus can spread again. Although there are life-saving vaccines and the Niti Aayoog has asserted there are no dearth of vaccines but they aren't being administered to children in the age group of 2-18 to be specific. The clearances to vaccinate them have been given, however, the rollout is yet to begin. The big question is should the process be fast-tracked? The indications are strong across the world that the Delta variant has been infecting children. In the United States, adolescents and children now account for more than one-fifth of the new cases with 22 per cent infection cases. In the United Kingdom, 1 in 14 students in secondary schools have caught the virus and in Brazil, the virus yielded a troubling trend - an alarming number of deaths in kids and adolescents. Now, all three countries have started immunising their children. In fact, more than 25 countries have been administering doses to those above 12 years of age, some countries have vaccinated children below that bracket. Most of these countries have already dealt with or are dealing with the second wave of the virus. In India, last week the subject expert committee(SEC), a body constituted by the Drug Controller General of India recommended inoculating children in the 2-18 age group. The recommendation was made after trials were carried out on 525 children. The regulator usually takes a day or two to execute such recommendations but this time it has been a week and India's apex drug regulator is yet to approve Covaxin for children. It has attributed the delay to "additional technical opinion" which is being sought currently. VK Paul, chief of India's Covid task force says technical opinion is required because they want the decision to be taken based on "scientific rationale", also based on the supply situation of the child licensed vaccines. "A pragmatic decision can be taken by balancing the supply and the potential eligibility. COVID-19 infections in children are very mild or asymptomatic and that is one side of the story. On the other side, once there is enough vaccine available that can be used in children," VK Paul said. The low prevalence of infections among Indian children is being taken into account before the doses are made available. The situation in the US and UK currently shows that children are at risk, therefore, vaccinating kids could be key in preventing another devastating surge of infections even though "scientific rationale" should be taken into account but as should be data, evidence and global trends.

DCGI seeks 'technical opinion' to approve Covaxin for kids

Terrorists shot dead two more non-local labourers and injured another on Sunday in Kulgam district of south Kashmir, prompting the police to direct that all non-resident labourers in the Valley be brought to nearest security camps "immediately" for safety, officials said.

It&nbsp;is the third attack on non-local workers in less than 24 hours and is the latest in a series of shootings targeting civilians in recent weeks.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-encounter-3-detained-for-questioning-as-search-ops-enter-day-7-in-poonch-rajouri-forests-421469">Also Read |&nbsp;3 detained for questioning as search ops enter day 7 in Poonch- Rajouri forests</a>

A street vendor from Bihar and a carpenter from Uttar Pradesh were shot dead by terrorists&nbsp;on Saturday evening.

"Terrorists fired indiscriminately upon non-local labourers at Wanpoh area of Kulgam. In this terror incident, two&nbsp;non-locals were killed and one was&nbsp;injured," Kashmir zone police said.

It said police and security forces have cordoned off the area.

According to officials, the terrorists&nbsp;entered the rented accommodation of the labourers and fired on them indiscriminately.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-13-terrorists-killed-in-9-encounters-after-civilian-killings-421340">Also Read:&nbsp;13 terrorists killed in 9 encounters after civilian killings</a>

In a message flashed to all district police in the Valley, Inspector General of Police (Kashmir) Vijay Kumar said, "All non-local labourers in your respective jurisdiction should be brought to the nearest police or central paramilitary force or army establishment just now."

"The matter is most urgent," the message to the 10 districts in the Valley said.&nbsp;The terror attack drew strong condemnation from political parties across the spectrum.

"There are no words strong enough to condemn the repeated barbaric attacks on innocent civilians. My heart goes out to their families because they leave the comforts of their homes to earn a dignified livelihood. Terribly sad," PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti tweeted.

BJP state spokesman Altaf Thakur said the killings were "nothing but pure genocide".

"The gruesome murder of non-locals is nothing but inhuman and shows the frustration of militants," he said.

CPI(M) leader M Y Tarigami said killing innocent labourers who have come here to earn their livelihood is a heinous crime.

"This is aimed at targeting the interests of people of Kashmir and this is happening at a time when the harvesting season is at its peak," he said.

Tarigami said mere condemnation is not enough and it was time for all to come forward and unitedly raise voice against these criminals who are committing such heinous crimes.

"We appeal to civil society, political parties irrespective of their political agenda to raise their voice against such barbaric acts," he added.

Amid the civilian killings, Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha had on Sunday vowed to avenge every drop of their blood by hunting down terrorists and their sympathisers.

Sinha said attempts are being made to disrupt the peace and socio-economic progress of Jammu and Kashmir and the individual growth of the people and reiterated the commitment to the fast-paced development of the Union territory.

"I pay my heartfelt tributes to the martyr civilians and condolences to the bereaved families. We'll hunt down terrorists, their sympathisers and avenge every drop of innocent civilians' blood," Sinha said in his monthly radio programme 'Awaam ki Awaaz'. &nbsp;

Terrorists shot dead two more non-local labourers and injured another on Sunday in Kulgam district of south Kashmir, prompting the police to direct that all non-resident labourers in the Valley be brought to nearest security camps "immediately" for safety, officials said.

Terrorists shot dead two more non-local labourers and injured another on Sunday in Kulgam district of south Kashmir, prompting the police to direct that all non-resident labourers in the Valley be brought to nearest security camps "immediately" for safety, officials said. It is the third attack on non-local workers in less than 24 hours and is the latest in a series of shootings targeting civilians in recent weeks. Also Read | 3 detained for questioning as search ops enter day 7 in Poonch- Rajouri forests A street vendor from Bihar and a carpenter from Uttar Pradesh were shot dead by terrorists on Saturday evening. "Terrorists fired indiscriminately upon non-local labourers at Wanpoh area of Kulgam. In this terror incident, two non-locals were killed and one was injured," Kashmir zone police said. It said police and security forces have cordoned off the area. According to officials, the terrorists entered the rented accommodation of the labourers and fired on them indiscriminately. Also Read: 13 terrorists killed in 9 encounters after civilian killings In a message flashed to all district police in the Valley, Inspector General of Police (Kashmir) Vijay Kumar said, "All non-local labourers in your respective jurisdiction should be brought to the nearest police or central paramilitary force or army establishment just now." "The matter is most urgent," the message to the 10 districts in the Valley said. The terror attack drew strong condemnation from political parties across the spectrum. "There are no words strong enough to condemn the repeated barbaric attacks on innocent civilians. My heart goes out to their families because they leave the comforts of their homes to earn a dignified livelihood. Terribly sad," PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti tweeted. BJP state spokesman Altaf Thakur said the killings were "nothing but pure genocide". "The gruesome murder of non-locals is nothing but inhuman and shows the frustration of militants," he said. CPI(M) leader M Y Tarigami said killing innocent labourers who have come here to earn their livelihood is a heinous crime. "This is aimed at targeting the interests of people of Kashmir and this is happening at a time when the harvesting season is at its peak," he said. Tarigami said mere condemnation is not enough and it was time for all to come forward and unitedly raise voice against these criminals who are committing such heinous crimes. "We appeal to civil society, political parties irrespective of their political agenda to raise their voice against such barbaric acts," he added. Amid the civilian killings, Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha had on Sunday vowed to avenge every drop of their blood by hunting down terrorists and their sympathisers. Sinha said attempts are being made to disrupt the peace and socio-economic progress of Jammu and Kashmir and the individual growth of the people and reiterated the commitment to the fast-paced development of the Union territory. "I pay my heartfelt tributes to the martyr civilians and condolences to the bereaved families. We'll hunt down terrorists, their sympathisers and avenge every drop of innocent civilians' blood," Sinha said in his monthly radio programme 'Awaam ki Awaaz'.

J&K: Attacks on civilians continue, terrorists kill two labourers in Kulgam

Terrorists gunned down two Bihar labourers on Sunday, bringing the total number of civilians murdered in targeted killings in Jammu and Kashmir this month to 11. 
 
On Sunday, terrorists opened fire on labourers in Vanpoh, Kulgam district. Another worker was hurt in the event. 
 
Terrorists shot dead a gol-gappa vendor from Bihar and a carpenter from Uttar Pradesh in the Valley the day before. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/terrorists-kill-two-non-local-labourers-in-jks-kulgam-district-421608">Also read | Terrorists kill two civilians in J&amp;K's Kulgam district</a> 
&nbsp; 
"Terrorists fired indiscriminately upon non-local labourers in the Wanpoh area of Kulgam. In this terror incident, two non-locals were killed and one injured. Police and security forces cordoned off the area," Jammu and Kashmir Police said. 
 
Watch:

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The killings come a day after two non-locals, a street vendor and a carpenter from Bihar and Uttar Pradesh were killed by suspected terrorists in Srinagar and Pulwama districts. 
 
Earlier this month, terrorists killed two professors called Supinder Kour and Deepak Chand, a renowned Kashmiri Pandit and the proprietor of Srinagar's famed pharmacy Makhan Lal Bindroo, and a 'chaat' seller named Virendra Paswan from Bihar.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-13-terrorists-killed-in-9-encounters-after-civilian-killings-421340">Also Read:&nbsp;13 terrorists killed in 9 encounters after civilian killings</a> 
 
Security forces have also undertaken several operations to apprehend terrorists, several of whom have been killed. 
Several troops have also been killed in combat during the operations.&nbsp; 
 
Names of the civilians killed in terrorist attacks: Mohammad Shafi Dar, Majid Ahmad Gojri, Makhan Lal Bindroo, Virender Paswan, Mohammad Shafi Lone, Supinder Kaur, Deepak Chand, Sagir Ahmed, Arbind Kumar Shah, Raja Reshi Dev, Jogindar Reshi Dev. 
 
In the State of Jammu and Kashmir, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha pledged on Sunday to revenge every drop of bloodshed by those slain by tracking down terrorists and their supporters. 
 
Sinha stated that attempts are being made to disturb Jammu and Kashmir's peace and socioeconomic progress, as well as people's individual growth, and reaffirmed the Union territory's commitment to rapid development.&nbsp; 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Terrorists gunned down two Bihar labourers on Sunday, bringing the total number of civilians murdered in targeted killings in Jammu and Kashmir this month to 11.

Terrorists gunned down two Bihar labourers on Sunday, bringing the total number of civilians murdered in targeted killings in Jammu and Kashmir this month to 11. On Sunday, terrorists opened fire on labourers in Vanpoh, Kulgam district. Another worker was hurt in the event. Terrorists shot dead a gol-gappa vendor from Bihar and a carpenter from Uttar Pradesh in the Valley the day before. Also read | Terrorists kill two civilians in J&K's Kulgam district "Terrorists fired indiscriminately upon non-local labourers in the Wanpoh area of Kulgam. In this terror incident, two non-locals were killed and one injured. Police and security forces cordoned off the area," Jammu and Kashmir Police said. Watch: The killings come a day after two non-locals, a street vendor and a carpenter from Bihar and Uttar Pradesh were killed by suspected terrorists in Srinagar and Pulwama districts. Earlier this month, terrorists killed two professors called Supinder Kour and Deepak Chand, a renowned Kashmiri Pandit and the proprietor of Srinagar's famed pharmacy Makhan Lal Bindroo, and a 'chaat' seller named Virendra Paswan from Bihar. Also Read: 13 terrorists killed in 9 encounters after civilian killings Security forces have also undertaken several operations to apprehend terrorists, several of whom have been killed. Several troops have also been killed in combat during the operations. Names of the civilians killed in terrorist attacks: Mohammad Shafi Dar, Majid Ahmad Gojri, Makhan Lal Bindroo, Virender Paswan, Mohammad Shafi Lone, Supinder Kaur, Deepak Chand, Sagir Ahmed, Arbind Kumar Shah, Raja Reshi Dev, Jogindar Reshi Dev. In the State of Jammu and Kashmir, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha pledged on Sunday to revenge every drop of bloodshed by those slain by tracking down terrorists and their supporters. Sinha stated that attempts are being made to disturb Jammu and Kashmir's peace and socioeconomic progress, as well as people's individual growth, and reaffirmed the Union territory's commitment to rapid development. (With inputs from agencies)

11 civilians killed in October alone in terrorist attacks in J&K

History seems to be repeating itself in Kashmir. Recently, there have been targeting attacks against the non-locals living in the valley, 11 people have been killed in the last two weeks.

Jammu & Kashmir: 11 civilians killed in last two weeks

Officials reported Sunday that at least 25 people were killed in landslides and floods caused by torrential rains in the Indian State of Kerala, as rescuers combed through muddy rubble for survivors and the military airlifted in essential supplies.

Residents in Kerala's coastal state were cut off as rains, which began to fall late Friday, swollen rivers and inundated roadways.

So far, 11 dead have been discovered in the Idukki district and 14 in the Kottayam district, according to officials, after the districts were ravaged by landslides and flash floods.&nbsp; 
 
Watch:

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&nbsp;
Thousands of people have been evacuated, and at least 100 relief camps have been established, according to Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan.

The army, navy, and air force are all pitching in to help with flood relief and rescue efforts. 
 
Officials were unable to estimate how many people were missing.&nbsp; 
 
"It was my livelihood. Everything is gone," a distraught man told Kerala news channel Manorama TV in Koottickal town in Kottayam, which was hit by a landslide.
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"The hill broke off near us. There has been a lot of damage and loss. The house has gone. "The children have gone," a woman from Koottickal added.

Buses and automobiles were seen submerged in floodwaters in a video published on social media.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his sympathies on Twitter and stated that authorities were trying to assist anyone impacted or affected by the flood.

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It is saddening that some people have lost their lives due to heavy rains and landslides in Kerala. Condolences to the bereaved families.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1449701959804456963?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The torrential rains triggered by a low-pressure system over the southern Arabian Sea and Kerala were anticipated to subside on Monday, according to the India Meteorological Department.&nbsp;

Fishing off the coast of Kerala, Karnataka, and Lakshadweep has been entirely prohibited till Monday.

High tides and strong seas are expected throughout the Kerala-Karnataka-Lakshadweep coast till 11.30 p.m. on October 18.

The Chief Minister stated that the IMD has issued a weather warning for thundershowers and high winds over Kerala until October 21.

In 2018, nearly 500 people were killed in Kerala when it was ravaged by the worst floods to hit the state in almost a century.

(With inputs from agencies)

Officials reported Sunday that at least 25 people were killed in landslides and floods caused by torrential rains in the Indian State of Kerala, as rescuers combed through muddy rubble for survivors and the military airlifted in essential supplies.

Officials reported Sunday that at least 25 people were killed in landslides and floods caused by torrential rains in the Indian State of Kerala, as rescuers combed through muddy rubble for survivors and the military airlifted in essential supplies. Residents in Kerala's coastal state were cut off as rains, which began to fall late Friday, swollen rivers and inundated roadways. So far, 11 dead have been discovered in the Idukki district and 14 in the Kottayam district, according to officials, after the districts were ravaged by landslides and flash floods. Watch: Thousands of people have been evacuated, and at least 100 relief camps have been established, according to Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. The army, navy, and air force are all pitching in to help with flood relief and rescue efforts. Officials were unable to estimate how many people were missing. "It was my livelihood. Everything is gone," a distraught man told Kerala news channel Manorama TV in Koottickal town in Kottayam, which was hit by a landslide. "The hill broke off near us. There has been a lot of damage and loss. The house has gone. "The children have gone," a woman from Koottickal added. Buses and automobiles were seen submerged in floodwaters in a video published on social media. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his sympathies on Twitter and stated that authorities were trying to assist anyone impacted or affected by the flood. It is saddening that some people have lost their lives due to heavy rains and landslides in Kerala. Condolences to the bereaved families. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 17, 2021 × The torrential rains triggered by a low-pressure system over the southern Arabian Sea and Kerala were anticipated to subside on Monday, according to the India Meteorological Department. Fishing off the coast of Kerala, Karnataka, and Lakshadweep has been entirely prohibited till Monday. High tides and strong seas are expected throughout the Kerala-Karnataka-Lakshadweep coast till 11.30 p.m. on October 18. The Chief Minister stated that the IMD has issued a weather warning for thundershowers and high winds over Kerala until October 21. In 2018, nearly 500 people were killed in Kerala when it was ravaged by the worst floods to hit the state in almost a century. (With inputs from agencies)

At least 25 dead after heavy rains spark landslides in Indian state of Kerala

The Jammu and Kashmir Government today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Government of Dubai for real estate development, industrial parks, IT towers, multipurpose towers, logistics, medical college, and a super-speciality hospital.

According to the government, the MoU is a milestone. They expect that it would result in significant pouring in of investments from around the globe and&nbsp;that it would be a big developmental push.

The government also said that different entities from Dubai have shown a keen interest in investment.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/exclusive-indias-eam-jaishankar-speaks-to-wion-on-india-israel-ties-421823" hreflang="en">Exclusive: India's EAM Jaishankar speaks to WION on India-Israel ties</a>

''With the signing of the MoU with the Dubai Government, the world has started to recognize the pace with which Jammu and Kashmir is traversing the development bandwagon. This MoU gives out a strong signal to the entire world that the way India is transforming into a global power, Jammu &amp; Kashmir is having a significant role in that as well,'' said Piyush Goyal, Union Minister for Commerce and Industry.&nbsp;

The Lt Governor of Jammu Kashmir, Manoj Sinha termed the occasion a historic day for the Dubai-Jammu Kashmir friendship, and for the developmental journey of the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jaishankar-involved-in-very-intensive-visit-says-naor-gilon-israels-new-ambassador-to-india-to-wion-421818" hreflang="en">Jaishankar involved in very intensive visit, says Naor Gilon Israel's new ambassador to India to WION</a>

&nbsp;''The MoU is the beginning of a new partnership between the Government of Dubai and J&amp;K which will help the Union Territory to scale new heights in industrialisation and sustainable growth. It is aimed at developing various economic activities including industrial parks, IT Towers, multi-purpose towers, logistics, medical college, super speciality hospital and many other projects,'' said Manoj Sinha, Lt Governor of Jammu Kashmir.&nbsp;

Lt Governor&nbsp;Manoj Sinha also said that the Government of Dubai is willing to explore the opportunity of potential cooperation with the government of Jammu &amp; Kashmir.&nbsp;

''The presence of Hon’ble Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem at today’s conference and our initiative to start the first international flight to Sharjah from 23rd October reflects our commitment to foster strong business cooperation, '' added the Lt Governor.&nbsp;

The Jammu and Kashmir Government today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Government of Dubai for real estate development, industrial parks, IT towers, multipurpose towers, logistics, medical college, and a super-speciality hospital.

The Jammu and Kashmir Government today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Government of Dubai for real estate development, industrial parks, IT towers, multipurpose towers, logistics, medical college, and a super-speciality hospital. According to the government, the MoU is a milestone. They expect that it would result in significant pouring in of investments from around the globe and that it would be a big developmental push. The government also said that different entities from Dubai have shown a keen interest in investment. Also read | Exclusive: India's EAM Jaishankar speaks to WION on India-Israel ties ''With the signing of the MoU with the Dubai Government, the world has started to recognize the pace with which Jammu and Kashmir is traversing the development bandwagon. This MoU gives out a strong signal to the entire world that the way India is transforming into a global power, Jammu & Kashmir is having a significant role in that as well,'' said Piyush Goyal, Union Minister for Commerce and Industry. The Lt Governor of Jammu Kashmir, Manoj Sinha termed the occasion a historic day for the Dubai-Jammu Kashmir friendship, and for the developmental journey of the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. Also read | Jaishankar involved in very intensive visit, says Naor Gilon Israel's new ambassador to India to WION ''The MoU is the beginning of a new partnership between the Government of Dubai and J&K which will help the Union Territory to scale new heights in industrialisation and sustainable growth. It is aimed at developing various economic activities including industrial parks, IT Towers, multi-purpose towers, logistics, medical college, super speciality hospital and many other projects,'' said Manoj Sinha, Lt Governor of Jammu Kashmir. Lt Governor Manoj Sinha also said that the Government of Dubai is willing to explore the opportunity of potential cooperation with the government of Jammu & Kashmir. ''The presence of Hon’ble Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem at today’s conference and our initiative to start the first international flight to Sharjah from 23rd October reflects our commitment to foster strong business cooperation, '' added the Lt Governor.

Dubai and J&K government sign MoU aimed at scaling up industrial development

As India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar visits Israel, WION spoke to Naor Gilon who was recently named as Israel’s ambassador to India.

"I am very happy to be here with India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar who is currently having a very intensive visit,"&nbsp;Gilon told WION.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-israel-agree-to-start-fta-negotiation-vaccine-certificate-recognition-421779">Also Read:&nbsp;India, Israel agree to start FTA negotiation, vaccine certificate recognition</a>

Gilon, 57, informed that Jaishankar's visit has proved to be very fruitful with "practical agenda items".&nbsp;

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Visited <a href="https://twitter.com/israelmuseum?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@israelmuseum</a> with minister <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DrSJaishankar</a> Among other we saw there the synagogue from Cochin and an exhibition of Indian art. Another perspective to the history of the relations between our peoples🇮🇱🇮🇳 <a href="https://t.co/XCe69d7ME8">pic.twitter.com/XCe69d7ME8</a>
— Naor Gilon (@NaorGilon) <a href="https://twitter.com/NaorGilon/status/1450078067490181124?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 18, 2021</a></blockquote>
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"I can't wait to come back to New Delhi to continue my work," Gilon added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/israel-to-join-india-based-international-solar-alliance-421685">Also Read:&nbsp;Israel to join India based International Solar Alliance</a>

India's external affairs minister Jaishankar met his counterpart Israeli foreign minister Yair Lapid as they decided both countries should resume FTA negations.

Jaishankar also informed that both countries had agreed to recognise each others vaccination certification.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jaishankar-pays-homage-to-indian-soldiers-at-war-cemetery-in-israel-421580">Also Read:&nbsp;Jaishankar pays homage to Indian soldiers at war cemetery in Israel</a>

Jaishankar also welcomed Israel's initiative to join the International Solar Alliance. India's foreign minister on Sunday had visited the Indian cemetery at Talpiot to pay homage to Indian soliders who had died during World War-I.

As India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar visits Israel, WION spoke to Naor Gilon who was recently named as Israel’s ambassador to India. "I am very happy to be here with India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar who is currently having a very intensive visit," Gilon told WION.

As India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar visits Israel, WION spoke to Naor Gilon who was recently named as Israel’s ambassador to India. "I am very happy to be here with India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar who is currently having a very intensive visit," Gilon told WION. Also Read: India, Israel agree to start FTA negotiation, vaccine certificate recognition Gilon, 57, informed that Jaishankar's visit has proved to be very fruitful with "practical agenda items". Visited @israelmuseum with minister @DrSJaishankar Among other we saw there the synagogue from Cochin and an exhibition of Indian art. Another perspective to the history of the relations between our peoples🇮🇱🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/XCe69d7ME8 — Naor Gilon (@NaorGilon) October 18, 2021 × "I can't wait to come back to New Delhi to continue my work," Gilon added. Also Read: Israel to join India based International Solar Alliance India's external affairs minister Jaishankar met his counterpart Israeli foreign minister Yair Lapid as they decided both countries should resume FTA negations. Jaishankar also informed that both countries had agreed to recognise each others vaccination certification. Also Read: Jaishankar pays homage to Indian soldiers at war cemetery in Israel Jaishankar also welcomed Israel's initiative to join the International Solar Alliance. India's foreign minister on Sunday had visited the Indian cemetery at Talpiot to pay homage to Indian soliders who had died during World War-I.

Jaishankar involved in very intensive visit, says Naor Gilon Israel's new ambassador to India to WION

At least 27 people have lost their lives in the southern Indian state of Kerala where heavy floods triggered by heavy rainfall and landslides are wreaking havoc. Two districts have been the worst affected, 13 bodies from the landslide areas in Kottayam and nine of those that went missing in Idukki have been recovered.

Kerala: 27 dead after rains spark landslides and heavy floods

India's&nbsp;minister of external affairs, Dr S Jaishankar is on a three-day visit to Israel. It is the first high-level engagement between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the new Israeli government headed by Naftali Bennett.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-israel-agree-to-start-fta-negotiation-vaccine-certificate-recognition-421779">India, Israel agree to start FTA negotiation, vaccine certificate recognition</a>

At the Kadavumbagam synagogue at the Israel's museum, speaking exclusively to WION, Dr Jaishankar talked about the ties shared by the two countries, their people and what the diplomatic ties in the next thirty years are expected to look like.

Talking about the deep civilisation bonds between the two countries, the Indian external minister said that the relationship between India and Israel "is rooted in history but very much a part of modernity as well".

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>

Regarding his hopes for the future of the relationship, he said, "Our relationship in the last many years has covered areas like agriculture, water, (and) to some degree defence security. But now we are looking much more at technology and innovation," Jaishankar said.

"I would say human-centric activities because that's where the world is heading. It could be in terms of the green economy, it could be in terms of the frontiers of different technologies. So I'm very sure that the next thirty years, would be way beyond the last thirty years," India's EAM added.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jaishankar-pays-homage-to-indian-soldiers-at-war-cemetery-in-israel-421580">Jaishankar pays homage to Indian soldiers at war cemetery in Israel</a>

Jaishankar had&nbsp;commenced his visit on Sunday&nbsp;by laying wreaths at a cemetery for Indian soldiers who laid down their lives in the region during World War I in Talpiot, Jerusalem.&nbsp;

On Monday, after successful diplomatic talks between Jaishankar and Israeli foreign minister Yair Lapid, India and Israel agreed to start free trade agreement (FTA) negotiations starting from November. The two countries have agreed "in principle" on mutual recognition of COVID-19&nbsp;vaccination certification.

Watch |&nbsp;Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar visits Israel, holds meet with Naftali Bennett govt

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India's minister of external affairs, Dr S Jaishankar is on a three-day visit to Israel. It is the first high-level engagement between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the new Israeli government headed by Naftali Bennett.

India's minister of external affairs, Dr S Jaishankar is on a three-day visit to Israel. It is the first high-level engagement between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the new Israeli government headed by Naftali Bennett. Also read | India, Israel agree to start FTA negotiation, vaccine certificate recognition At the Kadavumbagam synagogue at the Israel's museum, speaking exclusively to WION, Dr Jaishankar talked about the ties shared by the two countries, their people and what the diplomatic ties in the next thirty years are expected to look like. Talking about the deep civilisation bonds between the two countries, the Indian external minister said that the relationship between India and Israel "is rooted in history but very much a part of modernity as well". Also read | Abraham Accords dividend: India, US, UAE & Israel foreign ministers to hold meeting Regarding his hopes for the future of the relationship, he said, "Our relationship in the last many years has covered areas like agriculture, water, (and) to some degree defence security. But now we are looking much more at technology and innovation," Jaishankar said. "I would say human-centric activities because that's where the world is heading. It could be in terms of the green economy, it could be in terms of the frontiers of different technologies. So I'm very sure that the next thirty years, would be way beyond the last thirty years," India's EAM added. Also Read | Jaishankar pays homage to Indian soldiers at war cemetery in Israel Jaishankar had commenced his visit on Sunday by laying wreaths at a cemetery for Indian soldiers who laid down their lives in the region during World War I in Talpiot, Jerusalem. On Monday, after successful diplomatic talks between Jaishankar and Israeli foreign minister Yair Lapid, India and Israel agreed to start free trade agreement (FTA) negotiations starting from November. The two countries have agreed "in principle" on mutual recognition of COVID-19 vaccination certification. Watch | Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar visits Israel, holds meet with Naftali Bennett govt

Exclusive: India's EAM Jaishankar speaks to WION on India-Israel ties

We’ve often heard of flashy destination weddings that take place in the scenic Alappuzha backwaters of Indian state of Kerala, where respective families book entire fleets of houseboats for the special day.&nbsp;

However, amid the sharp spells of rain, landslides and deluge that have devastated the Southern Indian state, a couple let none of this come in their way.&nbsp;

Akash and Aishwarya, a couple in Alappuzha boarded a large vessel to arrive for the their wedding—only to find that this was no boat, but a large circular vessel that is used for cooking large quantities.

Clad in a traditional Kerala Dhoti and Sari, the couple are seen seated in the large vessel that is moving through knee-deep water.&nbsp;

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A clever <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/mallu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#mallu</a> quips in the background - we could've ordered a boat, instead of a car! <a href="https://t.co/JmefqKWKJV">pic.twitter.com/JmefqKWKJV</a>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1450031819907211266?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 18, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Two people clad in dhotis are seen gently pushing the vessel, as they themselves wade through the flooded street.&nbsp;

The wedding photographer is seen leading the way for this special ‘wedding vehicle’, that is headed for the Thalavadi Panayannurkavu temple.&nbsp;

According to a close relative of the couple, the bride and groom were keen on adhering to the auspicious date and time that was originally fixed for their special day.&nbsp;

In one of the the videos of the couple traveling by this ‘improvised vessel’, a person in the background is heard quipping (in Malayalam)- We could’ve booked a boat instead of a car!

We’ve often heard of flashy destination weddings that take place in the scenic Alappuzha backwaters of Indian state of Kerala, where respective families book entire fleets of houseboats for the special day.

We’ve often heard of flashy destination weddings that take place in the scenic Alappuzha backwaters of Indian state of Kerala, where respective families book entire fleets of houseboats for the special day. However, amid the sharp spells of rain, landslides and deluge that have devastated the Southern Indian state, a couple let none of this come in their way. Akash and Aishwarya, a couple in Alappuzha boarded a large vessel to arrive for the their wedding—only to find that this was no boat, but a large circular vessel that is used for cooking large quantities. Clad in a traditional Kerala Dhoti and Sari, the couple are seen seated in the large vessel that is moving through knee-deep water. A clever #mallu quips in the background - we could've ordered a boat, instead of a car! pic.twitter.com/JmefqKWKJV — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) October 18, 2021 × Two people clad in dhotis are seen gently pushing the vessel, as they themselves wade through the flooded street. The wedding photographer is seen leading the way for this special ‘wedding vehicle’, that is headed for the Thalavadi Panayannurkavu temple. According to a close relative of the couple, the bride and groom were keen on adhering to the auspicious date and time that was originally fixed for their special day. In one of the the videos of the couple traveling by this ‘improvised vessel’, a person in the background is heard quipping (in Malayalam)- We could’ve booked a boat instead of a car!

Indian couple wade through floodwater in ‘improvised vessel’ to tie the knot, braving all elements

India and Israel have agreed to start the free trade agreement negotiations from November.

India is Israel's third-largest trade partner in Asia and seventh largest globally. Both countries currently have $4.14 billion trade (April 2020 – February 2021), a figure that doesn't include the defense trade which has been increasing.

Sitting alongside Israeli FM Yair Lapid, EAM Jaishankar said, "Our officials have agreed on the resumption of the India Israel free trade negotiations starting...talks will start in November. They are very confident that they will be able to conclude the negotiations by next year. It is something we very much look forward to"

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/abraham-accords-dividend-india-us-uae-israel-foreign-ministers-to-hold-meeting-421701">Also Read: Abraham Accords dividend: India, US, UAE &amp; Israel foreign ministers to hold meeting</a>

At the meet, EAM said, "I know, in principle we have agreed on mutual recognition of our vaccination certification process. And while we are working that out, in the interim Israel would all people, having Covishield vaccines to travel to Israel"

He also welcomed Israel starting the process of joining the India based international solar alliance which currently has 124 member countries. Lauding the development, EAM Jaishankar said,"pleasure to see Israel joining the international solar alliance. You bring lot of value to the table and as we approach COP26" in Glasgow.

Israel's energy minister Karine Elharrar officially signed the agreement on her country's accession to the International Solar Alliance in the presence of Israeli Foreign minister Yair Lapid and Indian External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar. ISA aims to harness Solar energy to reduce dependence on fossil fuel. &nbsp;It was launched by Indian PM Modi and the then French President Francois Hollande at the Paris climate summit in 2015.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jaishankar-pays-homage-to-indian-soldiers-at-war-cemetery-in-israel-421580">Also Read:&nbsp;Jaishankar pays homage to Indian soldiers at war cemetery in Israel</a>

India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar is in Israel currently, his first in current capacity. On the first day, he met members of the Israeli chambers of commerce, interacted with the Indian Jewish Community and Indologists and paid homage to the Indian soldiers who died in World War-I&nbsp;by visiting the Indian cemetery at Talpiot.

Indian soldiers played a key role in the battle of Haifa in 1918. During the 2018 visit of the then Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu, the name of Teen Murti chowk was formally rechristened as Teen murti Haifa chowk.

The three&nbsp;statues at the chowk in the heart of central Delhi belong to the Hyderabad, Jodhpur and Mysore Lancers who were part of the British India forces who helped win the battle of Haifa.

India and Israel have agreed to start the free trade agreement negotiations from November. India is Israel's third-largest trade partner in Asia and seventh largest globally.

India and Israel have agreed to start the free trade agreement negotiations from November. India is Israel's third-largest trade partner in Asia and seventh largest globally. Both countries currently have $4.14 billion trade (April 2020 – February 2021), a figure that doesn't include the defense trade which has been increasing. Sitting alongside Israeli FM Yair Lapid, EAM Jaishankar said, "Our officials have agreed on the resumption of the India Israel free trade negotiations starting...talks will start in November. They are very confident that they will be able to conclude the negotiations by next year. It is something we very much look forward to" Also Read: Abraham Accords dividend: India, US, UAE & Israel foreign ministers to hold meeting At the meet, EAM said, "I know, in principle we have agreed on mutual recognition of our vaccination certification process. And while we are working that out, in the interim Israel would all people, having Covishield vaccines to travel to Israel" He also welcomed Israel starting the process of joining the India based international solar alliance which currently has 124 member countries. Lauding the development, EAM Jaishankar said,"pleasure to see Israel joining the international solar alliance. You bring lot of value to the table and as we approach COP26" in Glasgow. Israel's energy minister Karine Elharrar officially signed the agreement on her country's accession to the International Solar Alliance in the presence of Israeli Foreign minister Yair Lapid and Indian External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar. ISA aims to harness Solar energy to reduce dependence on fossil fuel. It was launched by Indian PM Modi and the then French President Francois Hollande at the Paris climate summit in 2015. Also Read: Jaishankar pays homage to Indian soldiers at war cemetery in Israel India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar is in Israel currently, his first in current capacity. On the first day, he met members of the Israeli chambers of commerce, interacted with the Indian Jewish Community and Indologists and paid homage to the Indian soldiers who died in World War-I by visiting the Indian cemetery at Talpiot. Indian soldiers played a key role in the battle of Haifa in 1918. During the 2018 visit of the then Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu, the name of Teen Murti chowk was formally rechristened as Teen murti Haifa chowk. The three statues at the chowk in the heart of central Delhi belong to the Hyderabad, Jodhpur and Mysore Lancers who were part of the British India forces who helped win the battle of Haifa.

India, Israel agree to start FTA negotiation, vaccine certificate recognition

The WHO's technical advisory group will meet on October 26 to consider the emergency use listing of India's Covaxin which is being used in the country's nationwide anti-COVID-19 vaccination programme, according to the global health agency's chief scientist Soumya Swaminathan.

Hyderabad-based Bharat Biotech, which has developed Covaxin, had submitted EOI (Expression of Interest) to the World Health Organisation on April 19 for its vaccine.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-development-finance-corporation-chief-to-visit-india-to-boost-vaccine-manufacturing-421167">US Development Finance Corporation chief to visit India to boost vaccine manufacturing</a>

Swaminathan, the WHO's Chief Scientist, said on Twitter on Sunday that the technical advisory group will meet on October 26 to consider the Emergency Use Listing (EUL) for Covaxin. @WHO has been working closely with @BharatBiotech to complete the dossier. Our goal is to have a broad portfolio of vaccines approved for emergency use and to expand access to populations everywhere," she said in the tweet.

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The technical advisory group will meet on Oct 26th to consider EUL for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Covaxin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Covaxin</a>. <a href="https://twitter.com/WHO?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@WHO</a> has been working closely with <a href="https://twitter.com/BharatBiotech?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BharatBiotech</a> to complete the dossier. Our goal is to have a broad portfolio of vaccines approved for emergency use &amp; to expand access to populations everywhere <a href="https://t.co/lqQIyqItF9">https://t.co/lqQIyqItF9</a>
— Soumya Swaminathan (@doctorsoumya) <a href="https://twitter.com/doctorsoumya/status/1449756927496495112?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Earlier this month, the WHO said that Bharat Biotech has been submitting data to WHO on a rolling basis and submitted additional information at the WHO's request on September 27.

The WHO experts are currently reviewing this information and if it addresses all questions raised, the WHO assessment will be finalised next week."

The Geneva-based WHO said it began rolling data of the vaccine on July 6. Rolling data allows the WHO to start its review right away, as information continues to come in to accelerate the overall review process.

According to the WHO, submissions for pre-qualification or listing under the emergency use procedure are confidential.

Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-lab-suspended-after-false-negative-covid-tests-420952">&nbsp;UK lab suspended after false negative Covid tests</a>

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

If a product submitted for assessment is found to meet the criteria for listing, the WHO will publish the results widely.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Duration of the emergency use listing process depends on the quality of the data submitted by the vaccine manufacturer and on the data meeting the WHO's criteria, according to the agency.

The indigenously-developed Bharat Biotech's Covaxin is one of the six vaccines that have received emergency use authorisation from India's drug regulator Drugs Controller General of India (DGCI) and is being used in the nationwide anti-COVID-19 inoculation programme along with Covishield and Sputnik V.

Bharat Biotech recently said it has submitted all data pertaining to Covaxin to the WHO for the EUL and is awaiting feedback from the global health watchdog.

"#COVAXIN clinical trial data was fully compiled and available in June 2021. All Data

submitted for Emergency Use Listing (EUL) Application to World Health Organization in early July. We have responded to any clarifications sought by #WHO and are awaiting further feedback," Bharat Biotech had tweeted last month.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/moderna-racing-for-profits-keeps-covid-vaccine-out-of-reach-of-poor-419518">Moderna, racing for profits, keeps Covid vaccine out of reach of poor</a>

"We are diligently working with the WHO to obtain EUL at the earliest,&nbsp;the company had said on Tuesday.

India, the world's largest producer of vaccines overall, suspended exports of COVID-19 vaccines in April to focus on inoculating its own population following a sudden spike in infections.

Last month, Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya announced that India will resume the supplies abroad.

According to Johns Hopkins University, the coronavirus has claimed 4,897,386 lives along with 240,559,605 confirmed cases across the world so far.

The WHO's technical advisory group will meet on October 26 to consider the emergency use listing of India's Covaxin which is being used in the country's nationwide anti-COVID-19 vaccination programme, according to the global health agency's chief scientist Soumya Swaminathan.

The WHO's technical advisory group will meet on October 26 to consider the emergency use listing of India's Covaxin which is being used in the country's nationwide anti-COVID-19 vaccination programme, according to the global health agency's chief scientist Soumya Swaminathan. Hyderabad-based Bharat Biotech, which has developed Covaxin, had submitted EOI (Expression of Interest) to the World Health Organisation on April 19 for its vaccine. Also Read | US Development Finance Corporation chief to visit India to boost vaccine manufacturing Swaminathan, the WHO's Chief Scientist, said on Twitter on Sunday that the technical advisory group will meet on October 26 to consider the Emergency Use Listing (EUL) for Covaxin. @WHO has been working closely with @BharatBiotech to complete the dossier. Our goal is to have a broad portfolio of vaccines approved for emergency use and to expand access to populations everywhere," she said in the tweet. The technical advisory group will meet on Oct 26th to consider EUL for #Covaxin. @WHO has been working closely with @BharatBiotech to complete the dossier. Our goal is to have a broad portfolio of vaccines approved for emergency use & to expand access to populations everywhere https://t.co/lqQIyqItF9 — Soumya Swaminathan (@doctorsoumya) October 17, 2021 × Earlier this month, the WHO said that Bharat Biotech has been submitting data to WHO on a rolling basis and submitted additional information at the WHO's request on September 27. The WHO experts are currently reviewing this information and if it addresses all questions raised, the WHO assessment will be finalised next week." The Geneva-based WHO said it began rolling data of the vaccine on July 6. Rolling data allows the WHO to start its review right away, as information continues to come in to accelerate the overall review process. According to the WHO, submissions for pre-qualification or listing under the emergency use procedure are confidential. Also Read | UK lab suspended after false negative Covid tests If a product submitted for assessment is found to meet the criteria for listing, the WHO will publish the results widely. Duration of the emergency use listing process depends on the quality of the data submitted by the vaccine manufacturer and on the data meeting the WHO's criteria, according to the agency. The indigenously-developed Bharat Biotech's Covaxin is one of the six vaccines that have received emergency use authorisation from India's drug regulator Drugs Controller General of India (DGCI) and is being used in the nationwide anti-COVID-19 inoculation programme along with Covishield and Sputnik V. Bharat Biotech recently said it has submitted all data pertaining to Covaxin to the WHO for the EUL and is awaiting feedback from the global health watchdog. "#COVAXIN clinical trial data was fully compiled and available in June 2021. All Data submitted for Emergency Use Listing (EUL) Application to World Health Organization in early July. We have responded to any clarifications sought by #WHO and are awaiting further feedback," Bharat Biotech had tweeted last month. Also Read | Moderna, racing for profits, keeps Covid vaccine out of reach of poor "We are diligently working with the WHO to obtain EUL at the earliest, the company had said on Tuesday. India, the world's largest producer of vaccines overall, suspended exports of COVID-19 vaccines in April to focus on inoculating its own population following a sudden spike in infections. Last month, Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya announced that India will resume the supplies abroad. According to Johns Hopkins University, the coronavirus has claimed 4,897,386 lives along with 240,559,605 confirmed cases across the world so far.

WHO to meet next week to consider emergency use listing of India's Covaxin

India's vaccination campaign has slowed despite amassing record stockpiles of vaccine, health ministry data showed on Monday, as authorities maintain a wider-than-usual gap between doses in a strategy that has boosted coverage.

Domestic production of the AstraZeneca vaccine, which accounts for nearly 90 per cent&nbsp;of administered doses, has more than tripled since May, when a supply shortage prompted India to double the period between doses to between 12 and 16 weeks.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-adds-14146-new-covid-cases-over-970-million-vax-doses-given-421436">India adds 14,146 new Covid cases, over 970 million vax doses given</a>

That gap, exceeding the 8 to 12 weeks recommended by the World Health Organization, has allowed India to give at least one vaccine dose to 74 per cent&nbsp;of its 944 million adults, with just 30&nbsp;per cent getting the full complement of two.

The AstraZeneca vaccine, known as Covishield, accounts for 861 million doses of India's total injected figure of 977.6 million, while its other main vaccine, Covaxin has a dose interval of four to six weeks.

Over the last few days, daily stocks of all COVID-19 vaccines have exceeded 100 million doses, the health ministry figures show, for states and federally controlled territories taken together.

In contrast, daily vaccinations have dropped to an average of 5 million doses this month and even less in the past week, off a daily peak of 25 million last month.

The ministry said it followed recommendations from a group of experts in making any changes to dosage, arrived at by weighing up "scientific and empirical" evidence.

"NTAGI is actively considering the matter of dose interval between Covishield doses," its spokesperson told Reuters, referring to the ministry's National Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (NTAGI).

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-development-finance-corporation-chief-to-visit-india-to-boost-vaccine-manufacturing-421167">US Development Finance Corporation chief to visit India to boost vaccine manufacturing</a>

However, vaccine supply alone should not determine the gap, said Chandrakant Lahariya, a physician and epidemiologist in the capital, New Delhi.

"There is no scientific rationale for reducing the gap," he added. "In fact, retaining this gap has the possibility of giving stronger protection and longer-lasting immunity."

Government officials have said they are trying to encourage more of those who are still unvaccinated to get inoculated.

A 12-week gap was more logical and scientific for vaccinations drives such as those in India, where some studies have shown many people already had antibodies against COVID-19, Lahariya said.

In July, the studies estimated that more than two-thirds of Indians already had COVID- 19 fighting antibodies, mainly through natural infection.

Monday's 13,596 new cases were India's lowest rise in 230 days, taking its tally of infections past 34 million. Deaths rose by 166 to stand at 452,290.

India's vaccination campaign has slowed despite amassing record stockpiles of vaccine, health ministry data showed on Monday, as authorities maintain a wider-than-usual gap between doses in a strategy that has boosted coverage.

India's vaccination campaign has slowed despite amassing record stockpiles of vaccine, health ministry data showed on Monday, as authorities maintain a wider-than-usual gap between doses in a strategy that has boosted coverage. Domestic production of the AstraZeneca vaccine, which accounts for nearly 90 per cent of administered doses, has more than tripled since May, when a supply shortage prompted India to double the period between doses to between 12 and 16 weeks. Also Read | India adds 14,146 new Covid cases, over 970 million vax doses given That gap, exceeding the 8 to 12 weeks recommended by the World Health Organization, has allowed India to give at least one vaccine dose to 74 per cent of its 944 million adults, with just 30 per cent getting the full complement of two. The AstraZeneca vaccine, known as Covishield, accounts for 861 million doses of India's total injected figure of 977.6 million, while its other main vaccine, Covaxin has a dose interval of four to six weeks. Over the last few days, daily stocks of all COVID-19 vaccines have exceeded 100 million doses, the health ministry figures show, for states and federally controlled territories taken together. In contrast, daily vaccinations have dropped to an average of 5 million doses this month and even less in the past week, off a daily peak of 25 million last month. The ministry said it followed recommendations from a group of experts in making any changes to dosage, arrived at by weighing up "scientific and empirical" evidence. "NTAGI is actively considering the matter of dose interval between Covishield doses," its spokesperson told Reuters, referring to the ministry's National Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (NTAGI). Also Read | US Development Finance Corporation chief to visit India to boost vaccine manufacturing However, vaccine supply alone should not determine the gap, said Chandrakant Lahariya, a physician and epidemiologist in the capital, New Delhi. "There is no scientific rationale for reducing the gap," he added. "In fact, retaining this gap has the possibility of giving stronger protection and longer-lasting immunity." Government officials have said they are trying to encourage more of those who are still unvaccinated to get inoculated. A 12-week gap was more logical and scientific for vaccinations drives such as those in India, where some studies have shown many people already had antibodies against COVID-19, Lahariya said. In July, the studies estimated that more than two-thirds of Indians already had COVID- 19 fighting antibodies, mainly through natural infection. Monday's 13,596 new cases were India's lowest rise in 230 days, taking its tally of infections past 34 million. Deaths rose by 166 to stand at 452,290.

India's vaccine effort slows as dose gap trumps output jump

&nbsp;India's first museum dedicated to alcohol has opened its doors to `spirited` enthusiasts in Goa.

The museum 'All About Alcohol'&nbsp;is set up by local businessman, Nandan Kudchadkar, in Candolim village of North Goa.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/six-people-dead-a-dozen-reported-missing-as-rains-lash-kerala-421366">Six people dead, a dozen reported missing as rains lash Kerala</a>

It houses hundreds of artefacts linked to feni, including large, traditional glass vats in which the local cashew-based alcohol was stored centuries ago.

Speaking to ANI, Kudchadkar, who is a collector of antiques, said the idea behind the museum was to make the world aware of Goa's rich heritage, especially the story of feni, the strong local drink.

"When I thought of creating a concept like this, the first thought that came into my mind was whether there is an alcohol museum in the world.

There is absolutely no place where you can see the kind of stuff pertaining to alcohol anywhere in the world. If you go to Scotland, they are very happy about their waters, about their drinks etc.

Similarly, in Russia, the people feel happy to showcase the drinks they have," he said.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-electricity-demand-picks-up-in-october-as-coal-shortage-lingers-421311">India's electricity demand picks up in October as coal shortage lingers</a>

"When we come to India, we project alcohol differently. Following my instincts, I decided to set up India's first museum dedicated to alcohol here," he said.

Armando Duarte, CEO, Alcohol Museum said, "One of our prominent drinks is Kaju Feni alcohol that is put on display here. This drink is fermented naturally.

For Goans, the consumption of alcohol was a symbol of hospitality.

"Dr Malhotra, a tourist for Maharashtra who visited this place, said, "The amount of information preserved here is amazing. I am dazed and awestruck with the place. The amount of information, they have kept here for visitors to see is super amazing."

India's first museum dedicated to alcohol has opened its doors to `spirited` enthusiasts in Goa. The museum 'All About Alcohol' is set up by local businessman, Nandan Kudchadkar, in Candolim village of North Goa.

India's first museum dedicated to alcohol has opened its doors to `spirited` enthusiasts in Goa. The museum 'All About Alcohol' is set up by local businessman, Nandan Kudchadkar, in Candolim village of North Goa. Also Read | Six people dead, a dozen reported missing as rains lash Kerala It houses hundreds of artefacts linked to feni, including large, traditional glass vats in which the local cashew-based alcohol was stored centuries ago. Speaking to ANI, Kudchadkar, who is a collector of antiques, said the idea behind the museum was to make the world aware of Goa's rich heritage, especially the story of feni, the strong local drink. "When I thought of creating a concept like this, the first thought that came into my mind was whether there is an alcohol museum in the world. There is absolutely no place where you can see the kind of stuff pertaining to alcohol anywhere in the world. If you go to Scotland, they are very happy about their waters, about their drinks etc. Similarly, in Russia, the people feel happy to showcase the drinks they have," he said. Also Read | India's electricity demand picks up in October as coal shortage lingers "When we come to India, we project alcohol differently. Following my instincts, I decided to set up India's first museum dedicated to alcohol here," he said. Armando Duarte, CEO, Alcohol Museum said, "One of our prominent drinks is Kaju Feni alcohol that is put on display here. This drink is fermented naturally. For Goans, the consumption of alcohol was a symbol of hospitality. "Dr Malhotra, a tourist for Maharashtra who visited this place, said, "The amount of information preserved here is amazing. I am dazed and awestruck with the place. The amount of information, they have kept here for visitors to see is super amazing."

India's first alcohol museum opens in Goa

For the first time since the pandemic began in March last year, Mumbai did not register any COVID-19 deaths in 24 hours on Sunday.

Mumbai civic commissioner Iqbal Singh Chahal stated in a tweet that the city had zero deaths from the virus on Sunday, the first time since March 26, 2020.&nbsp;

"This is great news for all of us in Mumbai. As Municipal Commissioner, Municipal Commissioner, Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai, I salute Team MCGM for their spectacular performance, " he Tweeted.

According to Iqbal Singh Chahal, at least 97% of Mumbai residents have gotten their first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, with 55% completely vaccinated.&nbsp;

Maharashtra minister Aaditya Thackeray said, "The good news. Mumbai today has recorded zero Covid deaths, the first time since March 26, 2020. Keep the mask on the face and get yourself vaccinated if you haven’t yet. Help us keep Mumbai safe, we’re here to serve you."

There are no operational containment zones in Mumbai.

There are, nevertheless, 50 active sealed structures.

In the Covid care centres, there are presently 538 high-risk contacts.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

For the first time since the pandemic began in March last year, Mumbai did not register any COVID-19 deaths in 24 hours on Sunday. Mumbai civic commissioner Iqbal Singh Chahal stated in a tweet that the city had zero deaths from the virus on Sunday, the first time since March 26, 2020.

For the first time since the pandemic began in March last year, Mumbai did not register any COVID-19 deaths in 24 hours on Sunday. Mumbai civic commissioner Iqbal Singh Chahal stated in a tweet that the city had zero deaths from the virus on Sunday, the first time since March 26, 2020. "This is great news for all of us in Mumbai. As Municipal Commissioner, Municipal Commissioner, Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai, I salute Team MCGM for their spectacular performance, " he Tweeted. According to Iqbal Singh Chahal, at least 97% of Mumbai residents have gotten their first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, with 55% completely vaccinated. Maharashtra minister Aaditya Thackeray said, "The good news. Mumbai today has recorded zero Covid deaths, the first time since March 26, 2020. Keep the mask on the face and get yourself vaccinated if you haven’t yet. Help us keep Mumbai safe, we’re here to serve you." There are no operational containment zones in Mumbai. There are, nevertheless, 50 active sealed structures. In the Covid care centres, there are presently 538 high-risk contacts. (With inputs from agencies)

In a first, Mumbai records zero deaths in single day since beginning of pandemic

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