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The Israeli Foreign Minister, Yair Lapid, the United Arab Emirates' Foreign Minister, Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed, and Indian External Affairs Minister, Dr Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, will take part in a first-ever virtual meeting later today.&nbsp;

Billed as the "quad", the meeting seems to be a direct outcome of the Abraham accords of 2020. The accords led to the normalisation of ties between Israel and the United Arab Emirates, with both sides opening direct commercial, telephonic links. The meeting takes place post 10 PM IST and details are set to be announced by the countries involved after it.

The UAE is the first country in the Persian Gulf to normalise ties with Israel. India has strong ties with both Israel and UAE in West Asia and since the accords were signed, they have worked in a trilateral arrangement.

In May, the three countries signed the first-ever pact that involves producing robotic solar cleaning technology in India for a project in the UAE by an Israel based company, Ecoppia. The trilateral partnership was initiated by the International Federation of Indo-Israel Chambers of Commerce (IFIICC).

The May release by the Israeli embassy in Delhi said, "Abraham Accords peace agreement signed between Israel and the UAE has certainly paved the way for friendships and business partnerships across the region. India, being a friend of both the UAE and Israel, is the preferred partner to leverage the global potential of the UAE, Israel, and India Trilateral. "

The estimate by the Israeli government pegs the innovation and international business potential of the 3 countries at $110 billion by 2030. The three countries are soon expected to focus on a mega connectivity plan that connects the Mediterranean to India via the Arab world. The foreign ministers of India, Israel, Egypt, Cyprus, Greece, and others are expected to meet in Dubai at the 12th edition of the Sir Bani Yas Forum in November this year.

The Israeli Foreign Minister, Yair Lapid, the United Arab Emirates' Foreign Minister, Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed, and Indian External Affairs Minister, Dr Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, will take part in a first-ever virtual meeting later today.

The Israeli Foreign Minister, Yair Lapid, the United Arab Emirates' Foreign Minister, Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed, and Indian External Affairs Minister, Dr Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, will take part in a first-ever virtual meeting later today. Billed as the "quad", the meeting seems to be a direct outcome of the Abraham accords of 2020. The accords led to the normalisation of ties between Israel and the United Arab Emirates, with both sides opening direct commercial, telephonic links. The meeting takes place post 10 PM IST and details are set to be announced by the countries involved after it. The UAE is the first country in the Persian Gulf to normalise ties with Israel. India has strong ties with both Israel and UAE in West Asia and since the accords were signed, they have worked in a trilateral arrangement. In May, the three countries signed the first-ever pact that involves producing robotic solar cleaning technology in India for a project in the UAE by an Israel based company, Ecoppia. The trilateral partnership was initiated by the International Federation of Indo-Israel Chambers of Commerce (IFIICC). The May release by the Israeli embassy in Delhi said, "Abraham Accords peace agreement signed between Israel and the UAE has certainly paved the way for friendships and business partnerships across the region. India, being a friend of both the UAE and Israel, is the preferred partner to leverage the global potential of the UAE, Israel, and India Trilateral. " The estimate by the Israeli government pegs the innovation and international business potential of the 3 countries at $110 billion by 2030. The three countries are soon expected to focus on a mega connectivity plan that connects the Mediterranean to India via the Arab world. The foreign ministers of India, Israel, Egypt, Cyprus, Greece, and others are expected to meet in Dubai at the 12th edition of the Sir Bani Yas Forum in November this year.

Abraham Accords dividend: India, US, UAE & Israel foreign ministers to hold meeting

Three more bodies were recovered from Koottikkal in Kerala's Kottayam district on Sunday due to landslides triggered by heavy rainfall, which has pushed the death toll in the state to nine, officials said.

State ministers K Rajan, Roshy Augustine and VN Vasavan participated in a review meeting to assess the situation arising due to heavy rains in the state, at Mundakkayam in Kottayam this morning.

In view of the red alert for rainfall and possible flooding and waterlogging in several districts of Kerala, a total of 11 teams of the National Disaster Relief Teams (NDRF) have been deployed to the state in coordination with the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA).

A total of 33 people including eight women and seven children have been rescued so far, according to the NDRF.

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>

Early this morning a team of the NDRF conducted rescue operation in Kokkayar, Idukki where a landslide occurred yesterday.

Rescue operations were also conducted in and around Ernakulam district and in Vaipur, RanniTaluk in Pathanamthitta district.

According to the Met department there will be isolated heavy rain in parts of the state over the next 24 hours starting October 17.

The India Meterological Department today said that the low-pressure area over southeast Arabian Sea and adjoining Kerala has become less marked and there is a possibility of light to moderate rainfall at many places with only isolated heavy rainfall over the state during next 24 hours and further decrease thereafter.

On Saturday, four people were killed in Kottayam district while two casualties have been reported in Idukki district.

Idduki and Kottayam districts in Central and South Kerala bore the brunt of the heavy rains that have been lashing the state since Friday with many people feared missing in landslides. Several people have been injured and displaced in rain-related incidents.&nbsp;

Three more bodies were recovered from Koottikkal in Kerala's Kottayam district on Sunday due to landslides triggered by heavy rainfall, which has pushed the death toll in the state to nine, officials said.

Three more bodies were recovered from Koottikkal in Kerala's Kottayam district on Sunday due to landslides triggered by heavy rainfall, which has pushed the death toll in the state to nine, officials said. State ministers K Rajan, Roshy Augustine and VN Vasavan participated in a review meeting to assess the situation arising due to heavy rains in the state, at Mundakkayam in Kottayam this morning. In view of the red alert for rainfall and possible flooding and waterlogging in several districts of Kerala, a total of 11 teams of the National Disaster Relief Teams (NDRF) have been deployed to the state in coordination with the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA). A total of 33 people including eight women and seven children have been rescued so far, according to the NDRF. Also Read | Six people dead, a dozen reported missing as rains lash Kerala Early this morning a team of the NDRF conducted rescue operation in Kokkayar, Idukki where a landslide occurred yesterday. Rescue operations were also conducted in and around Ernakulam district and in Vaipur, RanniTaluk in Pathanamthitta district. According to the Met department there will be isolated heavy rain in parts of the state over the next 24 hours starting October 17. The India Meterological Department today said that the low-pressure area over southeast Arabian Sea and adjoining Kerala has become less marked and there is a possibility of light to moderate rainfall at many places with only isolated heavy rainfall over the state during next 24 hours and further decrease thereafter. On Saturday, four people were killed in Kottayam district while two casualties have been reported in Idukki district. Idduki and Kottayam districts in Central and South Kerala bore the brunt of the heavy rains that have been lashing the state since Friday with many people feared missing in landslides. Several people have been injured and displaced in rain-related incidents.

Kerala Rains: Death toll reaches 9

Some can afford space travel, but for some, managing the one-time meal is rocket science. A harsh reality of the world, which is technologically so advanced that it can achieve anything possible, but the widening of the gap between the rich and poor just can not be ignored.

Some can afford space travel, but for some, managing the one-time meal is rocket science. A harsh reality of the world, which is technologically so advanced that it can achieve anything possible, but the widening of the gap between the rich and poor just can not be ignored. The world made remarkable progress to end persistent poverty in recent years, however, the unprecedented coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic reversed decades of progress to a large extent in the fight against poverty and extreme poverty globally. According to the World Bank, the COVID-19 crisis has pushed between 88 and 115 million people into poverty, with the majority of the new extreme poor being found in South Asian and Sub-Saharan countries. It is important to note that the poverty rates in such regions are already high. ALSO READ | Why is India poised to become the next superpower? October 17 is observed as the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty as it provides an opportunity to analyse the efforts made to eliminate poverty and acknowledge the struggle of people living in poverty. It is a day to make sure that the concerns of those people living in extreme poverty are heard and the world is progressing together to build a sustainable future, with an aim to eradicate discrimination and poverty. World leaders also must ensure that everyone must fully exercise their human rights. Impact of COVID-19 on efforts to eradicate poverty: The World Bank report also mentioned that in 2021, the number of people being pushed into poverty is expected to have risen to between 143 and 163 million, joining the ranks of the 1.3 billion people who are already living in multidimensional and persistent poverty. These "new poor" is an added challenge to the countries around the world and their efforts to eradicate poverty as the already-existing issues aggravated during the global pandemic. However, as the world embarks on the post-Covid recovery, it is essential to move forward with better plans and sustainable development goals, instead of finding ways to get back to how it was before the pandemic because we certainly do not want to go back to a system with structural disadvantages and inequalities. Progress made by India: According to International Monetary Fund (IMF), at the growth rate of 11.5%, India was going to be the fastest-growing economy in 2021. The growth is a clear indication that the poverty rate in the country is on the decline, which is remarkable for a country aiming to become the next superpower. As per the Brookings report, India is no longer the country with the most extreme poverty as in the global poverty ranking, India is sliding down. The real-time data from the World Poverty Clock, 6 per cent or 86,799,498 (86.8 million) of the Indian population are living in extreme poverty and 30 Indians are escaping extreme poverty every minute. The Global MPI Reports 2019 and 2020 states that 21.9 per cent of the population was poor in the country. ALSO READ | Status of women and state of feminism in China Illiteracy, unemployment, famines and malnutrition are some of the root causes of poverty in India, however, the Indian government is making efforts including spending on rural welfare schemes, etc and the 1991 economic reforms is a catalyst in India's emergence as a success story in globalisation that goes hand in hand with meeting infrastructural needs of its own people. The government is focused on alleviating the poverty of Indian households with schemes like The Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act 2005 (MNREGA), National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM), Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana-Gramin (PMAY-G), Public Distribution System (PDS), Housing for All, the Atal Mission for Urban Rejuvenation and Transformation (AMRUT), Smart Cities Mission, Digital India, Jan Dhan Yojana and Make in India. The target of the government is to eradicate extreme poverty for all people everywhere by 2030.

As COVID-19 creates 'new poor', here's how India is progressing to eradicate extreme poverty

India recorded 14,146 new cases of COVID-19 during the past 24 hours pushing the country's infection caseload to 3,40,67,719, even as the number of vaccinated people went past 970 million, the Union Health Ministry said in an update on Sunday.

With 144 more fatalities, the death toll reached 4,52,124.

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>

The active cases declined by 5,786 to stand at 1,95,846, the lowest in 220 days, which is now 0.57 per cent of the total caseload.

In the past 24 hours, 19,788 people recovered from the highly contagious virus, taking the total recovery count to 3,34,19,749, accounting for 98.10 per cent of the case tally. The death rate stood at 1.33 per cent.

The daily positivity rate was recorded at 1.29 per cent which has been below three per cent for the last 48 days. The weekly positivity rate, too, at 1.42 per cent was less than 3 per cent for the last 114 days.

Meanwhile, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) said that till now 59,09,35,381&nbsp;samples have been tested for the coronavirus. Of this, 11,00,123 were tested on Saturday.

Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-reports-15823-fresh-covid-19-cases-226-fatalities-420329">&nbsp;India reports 15,823 fresh COVID-19 cases, 226 fatalities</a>

The country has so far administered 97,65,89,540 doses of the COVID-19 vaccine with 41,20,772 jabs being given in the past day.

The Health Ministry said that 1,01,78,96,755&nbsp;vaccine doses have been provided to the states and union territories. It further said 10,42,45,455&nbsp;balance and unutilised Covid vaccine doses are still available with the States/UTs to be administered.

India recorded 14,146 new cases of COVID-19 during the past 24 hours pushing the country's infection caseload to 3,40,67,719, even as the number of vaccinated people went past 970 million, the Union Health Ministry said in an update on Sunday.

India recorded 14,146 new cases of COVID-19 during the past 24 hours pushing the country's infection caseload to 3,40,67,719, even as the number of vaccinated people went past 970 million, the Union Health Ministry said in an update on Sunday. With 144 more fatalities, the death toll reached 4,52,124. Also Read | US Development Finance Corporation chief to visit India to boost vaccine manufacturing The active cases declined by 5,786 to stand at 1,95,846, the lowest in 220 days, which is now 0.57 per cent of the total caseload. In the past 24 hours, 19,788 people recovered from the highly contagious virus, taking the total recovery count to 3,34,19,749, accounting for 98.10 per cent of the case tally. The death rate stood at 1.33 per cent. The daily positivity rate was recorded at 1.29 per cent which has been below three per cent for the last 48 days. The weekly positivity rate, too, at 1.42 per cent was less than 3 per cent for the last 114 days. Meanwhile, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) said that till now 59,09,35,381 samples have been tested for the coronavirus. Of this, 11,00,123 were tested on Saturday. Also Read | India reports 15,823 fresh COVID-19 cases, 226 fatalities The country has so far administered 97,65,89,540 doses of the COVID-19 vaccine with 41,20,772 jabs being given in the past day. The Health Ministry said that 1,01,78,96,755 vaccine doses have been provided to the states and union territories. It further said 10,42,45,455 balance and unutilised Covid vaccine doses are still available with the States/UTs to be administered.

India adds 14,146 new Covid cases, over 970 million vax doses given

India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar on Sunday began his three-day visit to Israel by laying wreaths at a cemetery for Indian soldiers who laid down their lives in the region during World War I in Talpiot, Jerusalem.

About 900 Indian soldiers are interred in cemeteries across Israel in Jerusalem, Ramle and Haifa.

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Visited the Indian Cemetery at Talpiot as my first engagement in Jerusalem. Paid homage to the brave Indian soldiers who made the supreme sacrifie during World War I. <a href="https://t.co/oIqWfnVlga">pic.twitter.com/oIqWfnVlga</a>
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1449737051310477314?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Jaishankar, who arrived earlier in the day on his first visit to the country as the external affairs minister&nbsp;laid wreaths at the Talpiot cemetery.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-external-affairs-minister-s-jaishankar-visits-kazakhstan-highlights-afghan-situation-420230">Also Read: Jaishankar visits Kazakhstan, highlights Afghan situation</a>

"I am deeply honoured to pay homage to the valiant sons of India who fought with bravery and courage in this land during WWI, bringing glory to themselves, their comrades and their motherland," Jaishankar wrote in the visitor's book.

"The valour and supreme sacrifice of these bravehearts will forever remain etched in the heart of our nation. Your heroism and selfless service is&nbsp;an inspiration and beacon of light that will forever guide us in the service of our country. I wish to thanks you &amp; Commonwealth War Graves Commission for maintaining these memorials for Indian soldiers in Israel," he wrote.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/the-battle-of-haifa-indias-forgotten-soldiers-336">Also Read |&nbsp;Battle of Haifa: Remembering India's forgotten soldiers</a>

The heroics of the Indian soldiers have prominently come to light during the past two decades and the story of liberation of the northern coastal city of Haifa, in what most war historians consider "the last great cavalry campaign in history", has become a household tale with its inclusion in the city's local history textbooks.

The Indian Army commemorates September 23 every year as Haifa Day to pay its respects to the three brave Indian cavalry regiments - Mysore, Hyderabad and Jodhpur Lancers - that helped liberate Haifa following a dashing cavalry action by the 15th Imperial Service Cavalry Brigade.

Captain Aman Singh Bahadur and Dafadar Jor Singh were awarded the Indian Order of Merit (IOM) and Captain Anop Singh and Second Lieutenant Sagat Singh were awarded the Military Cross (MC) as recognition for their bravery in this battle.

Major Dalpat Singh, widely known as the Hero of Haifa, was awarded a military cross for his bravery.&nbsp;Indian cavalry regiments armed with spears and swords had displayed the highest tradition of valour and cleared the enemy from the rocky slopes of Mount Carmel.

India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar on Sunday began his three-day visit to Israel by laying wreaths at a cemetery for Indian soldiers who laid down their lives in the region during World War I in Talpiot, Jerusalem.

India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar on Sunday began his three-day visit to Israel by laying wreaths at a cemetery for Indian soldiers who laid down their lives in the region during World War I in Talpiot, Jerusalem. About 900 Indian soldiers are interred in cemeteries across Israel in Jerusalem, Ramle and Haifa. Visited the Indian Cemetery at Talpiot as my first engagement in Jerusalem. Paid homage to the brave Indian soldiers who made the supreme sacrifie during World War I. pic.twitter.com/oIqWfnVlga — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) October 17, 2021 × Jaishankar, who arrived earlier in the day on his first visit to the country as the external affairs minister laid wreaths at the Talpiot cemetery. Also Read: Jaishankar visits Kazakhstan, highlights Afghan situation "I am deeply honoured to pay homage to the valiant sons of India who fought with bravery and courage in this land during WWI, bringing glory to themselves, their comrades and their motherland," Jaishankar wrote in the visitor's book. "The valour and supreme sacrifice of these bravehearts will forever remain etched in the heart of our nation. Your heroism and selfless service is an inspiration and beacon of light that will forever guide us in the service of our country. I wish to thanks you & Commonwealth War Graves Commission for maintaining these memorials for Indian soldiers in Israel," he wrote. Also Read | Battle of Haifa: Remembering India's forgotten soldiers The heroics of the Indian soldiers have prominently come to light during the past two decades and the story of liberation of the northern coastal city of Haifa, in what most war historians consider "the last great cavalry campaign in history", has become a household tale with its inclusion in the city's local history textbooks. The Indian Army commemorates September 23 every year as Haifa Day to pay its respects to the three brave Indian cavalry regiments - Mysore, Hyderabad and Jodhpur Lancers - that helped liberate Haifa following a dashing cavalry action by the 15th Imperial Service Cavalry Brigade. Captain Aman Singh Bahadur and Dafadar Jor Singh were awarded the Indian Order of Merit (IOM) and Captain Anop Singh and Second Lieutenant Sagat Singh were awarded the Military Cross (MC) as recognition for their bravery in this battle. Major Dalpat Singh, widely known as the Hero of Haifa, was awarded a military cross for his bravery. Indian cavalry regiments armed with spears and swords had displayed the highest tradition of valour and cleared the enemy from the rocky slopes of Mount Carmel.

Jaishankar pays homage to Indian soldiers at war cemetery in Israel

The East Delhi Municipal Corporation has intensified its drive to combat dengue, and a new awareness campaign via radio stations will be set in motion from Monday, officials said.

Over 480 cases of dengue have been reported in the national capital this season, including more than 140 in October, according to data shared by civic bodies.

Over 80 cases of dengue, 20 of malaria and two of chikungunya have been logged in areas falling under the EDMC's jurisdiction.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="Former Indian PM Manmohan Singh diagnosed with dengue, health improving">Former Indian PM Manmohan Singh diagnosed with dengue, health improving</a>

"We have intensified our anti-dengue drive as large number of cases are being recorded due to excessive rains this year. A radio campaign is ready. It will carry the message of precautions to be taken at home to ward off any possibility of breeding of mosquito larvae at home," East Delhi Mayor Shyam Sunder Aggarwal told PTI.

Besides, our dengue breeding checking (DBC) staff are going from house to house to check any breeding of dengue mosquitoes to prevent its spread, he said, and claimed that the staff has visited nearly 40 lakh households till date.

Dengue mosquito larvae breed in clear, standing water, while those of malaria thrive even in dirty water.

Cases of vector-borne diseases are usually reported between July and November, but the period may stretch till mid-December.

A senior official said a message in the voice of the mayor on precautions to be taken at home has been already recorded, and the EDMC has partnered with multiple private radio stations which will play it to raise awareness.

"The radio campaign is ready, and it will be launched tomorrow. People will get to hear the message on the airwaves either from tomorrow or the day after," he said.

Aggarwal said as part of the EDMC's intensive drive to combat dengue, fogging and disinfection exercise have been carried out at various police stations.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/what-is-mosquirix-the-worlds-first-malaria-vaccine-who-recommends-418937">What is Mosquirix, the world's first malaria vaccine WHO recommends?</a>

Of the total count of dengue cases in Delhi this year, nearly 140 have been reported this month till October 9. However, no deaths have been reported due to dengue in the city this year till now.

In September this season, 217 cases were logged in the city, the highest for this month in the last three years.

Last year, 188 dengue cases were reported in September, and 190 in 2019. In preceding years, the corresponding figures were 374 (2018), 1,103 (2017), 1,362 (2016) and 6,775 (2015), according to data shared by Delhi health department on September 22.

The month-wise distribution of dengue cases reported this year -- January (0), February (2), March (5), April (10) and May (12), June (7), July (16) and August (72).

According to the civic report on vector-borne diseases released on Monday, a total of 480 dengue cases have been recorded this season till October 9, which was the highest since 2018 for the same period.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-hospitals-run-out-of-beds-on-dengue-surge-419622">Pakistan hospitals run out of beds on dengue surge</a>

The number of cases reported for the January 1-October 9 period in the previous three years were -- 316 (2020), 467 (2019) and 830 (2018), according to the report.

A total of 1,072 cases and one death, were logged in the entire year in 2020, according to the report released by the South Delhi Municipal Corporation, the nodal agency for tabulating data on vector-borne diseases in the city.

According to the civic report, 127 cases of malaria and 62 cases of chikungunya have also been reported till October 9 this year in Delhi.

In the previous years, the total dengue cases recorded in the city were -- 4431 (2016), 4726 (2017), 2798 (2018), 2036 (2019) and 1072 (2020), as per the report.

The East Delhi Municipal Corporation has intensified its drive to combat dengue, and a new awareness campaign via radio stations will be set in motion from Monday, officials said.

The East Delhi Municipal Corporation has intensified its drive to combat dengue, and a new awareness campaign via radio stations will be set in motion from Monday, officials said. Over 480 cases of dengue have been reported in the national capital this season, including more than 140 in October, according to data shared by civic bodies. Over 80 cases of dengue, 20 of malaria and two of chikungunya have been logged in areas falling under the EDMC's jurisdiction. Also Read | Former Indian PM Manmohan Singh diagnosed with dengue, health improving "We have intensified our anti-dengue drive as large number of cases are being recorded due to excessive rains this year. A radio campaign is ready. It will carry the message of precautions to be taken at home to ward off any possibility of breeding of mosquito larvae at home," East Delhi Mayor Shyam Sunder Aggarwal told PTI. Besides, our dengue breeding checking (DBC) staff are going from house to house to check any breeding of dengue mosquitoes to prevent its spread, he said, and claimed that the staff has visited nearly 40 lakh households till date. Dengue mosquito larvae breed in clear, standing water, while those of malaria thrive even in dirty water. Cases of vector-borne diseases are usually reported between July and November, but the period may stretch till mid-December. A senior official said a message in the voice of the mayor on precautions to be taken at home has been already recorded, and the EDMC has partnered with multiple private radio stations which will play it to raise awareness. "The radio campaign is ready, and it will be launched tomorrow. People will get to hear the message on the airwaves either from tomorrow or the day after," he said. Aggarwal said as part of the EDMC's intensive drive to combat dengue, fogging and disinfection exercise have been carried out at various police stations. Also Read | What is Mosquirix, the world's first malaria vaccine WHO recommends? Of the total count of dengue cases in Delhi this year, nearly 140 have been reported this month till October 9. However, no deaths have been reported due to dengue in the city this year till now. In September this season, 217 cases were logged in the city, the highest for this month in the last three years. Last year, 188 dengue cases were reported in September, and 190 in 2019. In preceding years, the corresponding figures were 374 (2018), 1,103 (2017), 1,362 (2016) and 6,775 (2015), according to data shared by Delhi health department on September 22. The month-wise distribution of dengue cases reported this year -- January (0), February (2), March (5), April (10) and May (12), June (7), July (16) and August (72). According to the civic report on vector-borne diseases released on Monday, a total of 480 dengue cases have been recorded this season till October 9, which was the highest since 2018 for the same period. Also Read | Pakistan hospitals run out of beds on dengue surge The number of cases reported for the January 1-October 9 period in the previous three years were -- 316 (2020), 467 (2019) and 830 (2018), according to the report. A total of 1,072 cases and one death, were logged in the entire year in 2020, according to the report released by the South Delhi Municipal Corporation, the nodal agency for tabulating data on vector-borne diseases in the city. According to the civic report, 127 cases of malaria and 62 cases of chikungunya have also been reported till October 9 this year in Delhi. In the previous years, the total dengue cases recorded in the city were -- 4431 (2016), 4726 (2017), 2798 (2018), 2036 (2019) and 1072 (2020), as per the report.

EDMC anti-dengue campaign via radio stations to start from tomorrow: Official

Three persons, including a mother-son duo, were detained for questioning during an ongoing search operation in the forest belt of Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch and Rajouri border districts where nine soldiers were killed in two separate gunfights with terrorists over the past week, officials said on Sunday.

Five Army personnel, including a junior commissioned officer (JCO), laid down their lives in a fierce gunfight during a counter-insurgency operation in Surankote forest on Monday. Four soldiers, including another JCO, died in another encounter in the Mendhar sector on Thursday evening.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-13-terrorists-killed-in-9-encounters-after-civilian-killings-421340">J&amp;K: 13 terrorists killed in 9 encounters after civilian killings</a>

A man along with a 45-year-old woman and her son, all residents of Bhatta Durrian forest, were taken into custody for questioning on the suspicion of giving logistic support to terrorists, the officials said.

It was a matter of investigation whether they provided food and shelter to the terrorists voluntarily or at gunpoint, they said.

The officials underlined that the area is mountainous and the forest is dense, which makes the operation difficult and dangerous.

So far, contact with hiding terrorists was established thrice -- first on October 11 in Poonch's Surankote which was followed by another exchange of fire between the security forces and the fleeing terrorists in the adjoining Thanamandi forest in Rajouri district the same day but the ultras managed their escape in both the encounters.

The third encounter took place in the Nar Khas forest in the Mendhar area of Poonch on Thursday evening.

"The presence of terrorists in the forest area connecting Poonch and Rajouri was observed two-and-a-half months ago and accordingly tactical operations were launched to track them down," Deputy Inspector General of Police, Rajouri-Poonch range, Vivek Gupta said on Saturday.

"A joint security grid was tracking different groups of terrorists but sometimes operations take time depending on the topography of the area. Contact with the terrorists was established thrice this week based on intelligence inputs," the officer said.

The terrorists are holed up and the joint forces are on the job to take the operation to the logical conclusion, he added.

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Officials said the entire forest area from Mendhar to Thanamandi remains under a strict cordon and a massive search operation is on to neutralise the terrorists moving from one place to another in an attempt to escape the dragnet.

The Army has deployed para-commandos and a helicopter was also seen hovering over the forest area for surveillance on Saturday.

Officials said the traffic between Mendhar and Thanamandi along the Jammu-Rajouri highway remained suspended for the third day on Sunday in the wake of the ongoing operation.

Rajouri and Poonch in the Jammu region have witnessed a rise in infiltration attempts since June this year. Nine terrorists have been killed in separate encounters.

Three persons, including a mother-son duo, were detained for questioning during an ongoing search operation in the forest belt of Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch and Rajouri border districts where nine soldiers were killed in two separate gunfights with terrorists over the past week, officials said on Sunday.

Three persons, including a mother-son duo, were detained for questioning during an ongoing search operation in the forest belt of Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch and Rajouri border districts where nine soldiers were killed in two separate gunfights with terrorists over the past week, officials said on Sunday. Five Army personnel, including a junior commissioned officer (JCO), laid down their lives in a fierce gunfight during a counter-insurgency operation in Surankote forest on Monday. Four soldiers, including another JCO, died in another encounter in the Mendhar sector on Thursday evening. Also Read | J&K: 13 terrorists killed in 9 encounters after civilian killings A man along with a 45-year-old woman and her son, all residents of Bhatta Durrian forest, were taken into custody for questioning on the suspicion of giving logistic support to terrorists, the officials said. It was a matter of investigation whether they provided food and shelter to the terrorists voluntarily or at gunpoint, they said. The officials underlined that the area is mountainous and the forest is dense, which makes the operation difficult and dangerous. So far, contact with hiding terrorists was established thrice -- first on October 11 in Poonch's Surankote which was followed by another exchange of fire between the security forces and the fleeing terrorists in the adjoining Thanamandi forest in Rajouri district the same day but the ultras managed their escape in both the encounters. The third encounter took place in the Nar Khas forest in the Mendhar area of Poonch on Thursday evening. "The presence of terrorists in the forest area connecting Poonch and Rajouri was observed two-and-a-half months ago and accordingly tactical operations were launched to track them down," Deputy Inspector General of Police, Rajouri-Poonch range, Vivek Gupta said on Saturday. "A joint security grid was tracking different groups of terrorists but sometimes operations take time depending on the topography of the area. Contact with the terrorists was established thrice this week based on intelligence inputs," the officer said. The terrorists are holed up and the joint forces are on the job to take the operation to the logical conclusion, he added. Also Read | India to host in-person NSA meet on Afghanistan, Pakistan's Moeed Yusuf invited Officials said the entire forest area from Mendhar to Thanamandi remains under a strict cordon and a massive search operation is on to neutralise the terrorists moving from one place to another in an attempt to escape the dragnet. The Army has deployed para-commandos and a helicopter was also seen hovering over the forest area for surveillance on Saturday. Officials said the traffic between Mendhar and Thanamandi along the Jammu-Rajouri highway remained suspended for the third day on Sunday in the wake of the ongoing operation. Rajouri and Poonch in the Jammu region have witnessed a rise in infiltration attempts since June this year. Nine terrorists have been killed in separate encounters.

J&K encounter: 3 detained for questioning as search ops enter day 7 in Poonch- Rajouri forests

An elderly woman could be seen running from one person to another screaming through the rain swept roads in this high range hamlet, located at the foothills of Western Ghats mountain ranges, on Sunday morning.

"I have lost everything...Everything in my life...Where should I go?&nbsp;&nbsp;Who will give me a shelter?" the woman, clad in a tattered saree, asked aloud crying and running here and there.

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The unexpected torrential rain, which pounded the village on Saturday, washed away every penny of her life time earnings and made her homeless all of a sudden.

"I begged our Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan sir to give me two cents of land to construct a 'koora' (hut). I have nowhere to go. My daughters' houses are also submerged. Now I am going to the church to see whether I will get a place there," she told the journalists gathered at the place.

It was the story of many hapless families in Koottickal, located in Kottayam district of Kerala which suffered severe destruction and human casualty due to a series of landslips triggered by heavy rains yesterday.

When the extreme rains showed a slight dip this morning, a large number of people in this village could be seen as displaced and became the inmates of rehabilitation campus.

Many elderly villagers said it was for the first time in their decades-old life that they were seeing and experiencing such severe rainfall.

A local shop owner here pointed to his new car, which can be seen as destroyed and partially hanging with its back wheels stuck on a broken wall in his house compound.

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"It was my new car parked in front of the house. I was not at home when the flood water suddenly gushed inside the house compound Saturday afternoon. My wife and children some how managed to run to the neighbour's house," the middle aged man said.

He turned a bit emotional showing the 'mundu' (dhoti) which he was wearing, saying that it was borrowed from the neighbour.

Only life was saved and everything else was lost, he said adding that not even in the 2018 floods had he faced such a terrible situation.

The situation was not different in Kokkayar, a hilly hamlet in Idukki district as well, which also witnessed a series of landslips and human casualty on Saturday in incessant rains.

A shocked Rajamma, a woman villager, was yet to believe that a four-member family including children, who was seen engaged in some construction activities near her home on the foothills of hill, swept away by flood waters in front of her eyes.

The elderly woman said she advised the family to move away from the place when water was seen coming down from the hill tops in a small scale.

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"But, they continued their work. Suddenly a portion of the hill, where they were standing, caved in.&nbsp;Huge boulders started rolling down accompanied by a massive flood of water.&nbsp;I do not remember anything else," the teary-eyed woman said.

George, a middle-aged man engaged in rescue operations, said it was everything fine and calm in the village till 11 PM on Saturday.

"But, the situation worsened after that. Around 10 big bridges and the same number of wooden bridges were washed away and the village became isolated soon," he added.

The Army, NDRF, police and the Fire Force along with the locals began rescue operations on Sunday morning at Koottickal and Kokkayar panchayats where over a dozen people are listed to be missing due to numerous landslides accompanied by heavy downpour since Saturday.

Officials said rescue operators on Sunday morning recovered four more bodies from Koottickal panchayat taking the toll to eight.

An elderly woman could be seen running from one person to another screaming through the rain swept roads in this high range hamlet, located at the foothills of Western Ghats mountain ranges, on Sunday morning.

An elderly woman could be seen running from one person to another screaming through the rain swept roads in this high range hamlet, located at the foothills of Western Ghats mountain ranges, on Sunday morning. "I have lost everything...Everything in my life...Where should I go? Who will give me a shelter?" the woman, clad in a tattered saree, asked aloud crying and running here and there. Also Read | Six people dead, a dozen reported missing as rains lash Kerala The unexpected torrential rain, which pounded the village on Saturday, washed away every penny of her life time earnings and made her homeless all of a sudden. "I begged our Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan sir to give me two cents of land to construct a 'koora' (hut). I have nowhere to go. My daughters' houses are also submerged. Now I am going to the church to see whether I will get a place there," she told the journalists gathered at the place. It was the story of many hapless families in Koottickal, located in Kottayam district of Kerala which suffered severe destruction and human casualty due to a series of landslips triggered by heavy rains yesterday. When the extreme rains showed a slight dip this morning, a large number of people in this village could be seen as displaced and became the inmates of rehabilitation campus. Many elderly villagers said it was for the first time in their decades-old life that they were seeing and experiencing such severe rainfall. A local shop owner here pointed to his new car, which can be seen as destroyed and partially hanging with its back wheels stuck on a broken wall in his house compound. Also Read | Kerala Rains: Death toll reaches 9 "It was my new car parked in front of the house. I was not at home when the flood water suddenly gushed inside the house compound Saturday afternoon. My wife and children some how managed to run to the neighbour's house," the middle aged man said. He turned a bit emotional showing the 'mundu' (dhoti) which he was wearing, saying that it was borrowed from the neighbour. Only life was saved and everything else was lost, he said adding that not even in the 2018 floods had he faced such a terrible situation. The situation was not different in Kokkayar, a hilly hamlet in Idukki district as well, which also witnessed a series of landslips and human casualty on Saturday in incessant rains. A shocked Rajamma, a woman villager, was yet to believe that a four-member family including children, who was seen engaged in some construction activities near her home on the foothills of hill, swept away by flood waters in front of her eyes. The elderly woman said she advised the family to move away from the place when water was seen coming down from the hill tops in a small scale. Also Read | J&K: 13 terrorists killed in 9 encounters after civilian killings "But, they continued their work. Suddenly a portion of the hill, where they were standing, caved in. Huge boulders started rolling down accompanied by a massive flood of water. I do not remember anything else," the teary-eyed woman said. George, a middle-aged man engaged in rescue operations, said it was everything fine and calm in the village till 11 PM on Saturday. "But, the situation worsened after that. Around 10 big bridges and the same number of wooden bridges were washed away and the village became isolated soon," he added. The Army, NDRF, police and the Fire Force along with the locals began rescue operations on Sunday morning at Koottickal and Kokkayar panchayats where over a dozen people are listed to be missing due to numerous landslides accompanied by heavy downpour since Saturday. Officials said rescue operators on Sunday morning recovered four more bodies from Koottickal panchayat taking the toll to eight.

A day after torrential rains, heart-wrenching scenes in Kerala's high ranges

Despite the restrictions imposed by the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) on the immersion of Durga idols and other religious material at public places, the Yamuna ghat at ITO, Delhi, was littered with waste on Saturday morning.

Speaking to ANI, Pradeep Kumar, a resident of the city, said that the people of the country should give primacy to cleanliness while celebrating festivals.

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"Though the festivals are linked with religious faith, people should also take heed of cleanliness," he stated.

"There should be an alternative disposal site for religious material and the municipal corporation should dispose of it properly.b But the rivers should not be polluted," he added.

Kumar further said that the various projects initiated by the government for cleaning rivers will not be useful unless people become aware and stop polluting the rivers.

Earlier on Wednesday, DPCC issued an order stating that idol immersion at public places can attract a fine of Rs 50,000.

It banned the immersion at public places including the Yamuna River or any other water body, ponds or ghats.

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The pollution control body directed the general public, Residents&nbsp;Welfare Associations (RWAs), and Pooja Samitis that the idol immersion ritual may be performed within the home premises in a bucket or a container.

It further stated that the worship material like flowers, decorating material (made of paper), etc. should be removed before immersion of idols and may be collected separately for disposal or in an environmental safe handing over to the door to door waste collection vehicle.

The Committee also directed municipal authorities and Delhi Police to ensure strict checks on the entry of vehicles or goods carriers entering into the national capital carrying prohibited idols as its cargo.&nbsp;

Despite the restrictions imposed by the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) on the immersion of Durga idols and other religious material at public places, the Yamuna ghat at ITO, Delhi, was littered with waste on Saturday morning.

Despite the restrictions imposed by the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) on the immersion of Durga idols and other religious material at public places, the Yamuna ghat at ITO, Delhi, was littered with waste on Saturday morning. Speaking to ANI, Pradeep Kumar, a resident of the city, said that the people of the country should give primacy to cleanliness while celebrating festivals. Also Read | US Development Finance Corporation chief to visit India to boost vaccine manufacturing "Though the festivals are linked with religious faith, people should also take heed of cleanliness," he stated. "There should be an alternative disposal site for religious material and the municipal corporation should dispose of it properly.b But the rivers should not be polluted," he added. Kumar further said that the various projects initiated by the government for cleaning rivers will not be useful unless people become aware and stop polluting the rivers. Earlier on Wednesday, DPCC issued an order stating that idol immersion at public places can attract a fine of Rs 50,000. It banned the immersion at public places including the Yamuna River or any other water body, ponds or ghats. Also Read | Climate financing area of worry, says India's finance minister Sitharaman The pollution control body directed the general public, Residents Welfare Associations (RWAs), and Pooja Samitis that the idol immersion ritual may be performed within the home premises in a bucket or a container. It further stated that the worship material like flowers, decorating material (made of paper), etc. should be removed before immersion of idols and may be collected separately for disposal or in an environmental safe handing over to the door to door waste collection vehicle. The Committee also directed municipal authorities and Delhi Police to ensure strict checks on the entry of vehicles or goods carriers entering into the national capital carrying prohibited idols as its cargo.

Yamuna river in India's national capital Delhi littered with waste despite curbs

Four CRPF personnel were injured in a minor explosion after a container of detonators being shifted by them into a train accidentally slipped inside a coach when they were boarding it at railway station in India's easter Raipur state on Saturday morning, police said.

The special train was scheduled to carry the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel to northern Jammu from Raipur, they said.

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"A minor explosion was recorded in a special train of CRPF at Raipur railway station around 6.30 am today. The train was heading to Jammu from Jharsuguda (Odisha)," Raipur Superintendent of Police (SP) Prashant Agrawal said.

Four personnel suffered minor injuries in the incident, of whom head constable Chouhan Vikas Laxman was admitted to a private hospital here, while others left for their destination after being administered first aid, he added.

"The explosion occurred during the shifting of a container carrying detonators and HD cartridges. While shifting the container in train, it accidentally slipped in coach number-9, which led to the blast," Agrawal said.

Four CRPF personnel were injured in a minor explosion after a container of detonators being shifted by them into a train accidentally slipped inside a coach when they were boarding it at railway station in India's easter Raipur state on Saturday morning, police said.

Four CRPF personnel were injured in a minor explosion after a container of detonators being shifted by them into a train accidentally slipped inside a coach when they were boarding it at railway station in India's easter Raipur state on Saturday morning, police said. The special train was scheduled to carry the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel to northern Jammu from Raipur, they said. Also Read | Nihang group confesses to murder of man at Singhu Border "A minor explosion was recorded in a special train of CRPF at Raipur railway station around 6.30 am today. The train was heading to Jammu from Jharsuguda (Odisha)," Raipur Superintendent of Police (SP) Prashant Agrawal said. Four personnel suffered minor injuries in the incident, of whom head constable Chouhan Vikas Laxman was admitted to a private hospital here, while others left for their destination after being administered first aid, he added. "The explosion occurred during the shifting of a container carrying detonators and HD cartridges. While shifting the container in train, it accidentally slipped in coach number-9, which led to the blast," Agrawal said.

4 para military personnel injured in accidental blast as container of detonators slips while boarding train

India recorded 15,981 COVID-19 cases in a day, taking the infection tally to 3,40,53,573 while 166 more fatalities pushed the death toll to 4,51,980, according to the Union Health Ministry's data on Saturday.

The number of active Covid cases has declined to 2,01,632, the lowest in 218 days. The national recovery rate was at 98.07 per cent, the data updated at 8 am showed.

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Active cases account for 0.59 per cent of the total cases, the lowest since March last year.

In a day, the active COVID-19 caseload declined by 2,046. The number of people who have recuperated from the disease surged to 3,33,99,961, while the case fatality rate was recorded at 1.33 per cent.

As many as 9,23,003 tests were conducted on Friday, taking the cumulative tests conducted so far for the detection of COVID-19 in the country to 58,98,35,258.

Over 97.23 crore Covid vaccine doses have been administered in the country till now under the nationwide vaccination drive.

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India's COVID-19 tally had crossed the 20-lakh mark on August 7, 2020, 30 lakh on August 23, 40 lakh on September 5 and 50 lakh on September 16. It went past 60 lakh on September 28, 70 lakh on October 11, crossed 80 lakh on October 29, 90 lakh on November 20 and surpassed the one-crore mark on December 19.

India crossed the grim milestone of two crore on May 4 and three crore on June 23. The daily case positivity rate was recorded at 1.73 per cent, which has been less than 3 per cent for the last 47 days. The weekly positivity rate was 1.44 per cent and has been less than 3 per cent for the last 113 days, according to the Health Ministry.

The 166 fatalities recorded in a day include 67 from Kerala and 29 from Maharashtra.

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A total of 4,51,980 deaths have been reported so far in the country, including 1,39,734 from Maharashtra, 37,931 from Karnataka, 35,869 from Tamil Nadu, 26,734 from Kerala, 25,089 from Delhi, 22,897 from Uttar Pradesh, and 18,935 from West Bengal.

The health ministry stressed that more than 70 per cent of the deaths occurred due to comorbidities.

"Our figures are being reconciled with the Indian Council of Medical Research," the ministry said on its website, adding that state-wise distribution of figures is subject to further verification and reconciliation

India recorded 15,981 COVID-19 cases in a day, taking the infection tally to 3,40,53,573 while 166 more fatalities pushed the death toll to 4,51,980, according to the Union Health Ministry's data on Saturday.

India recorded 15,981 COVID-19 cases in a day, taking the infection tally to 3,40,53,573 while 166 more fatalities pushed the death toll to 4,51,980, according to the Union Health Ministry's data on Saturday. The number of active Covid cases has declined to 2,01,632, the lowest in 218 days. The national recovery rate was at 98.07 per cent, the data updated at 8 am showed. Also Read | COVID-19 virus has properties that have never been found in nature before Active cases account for 0.59 per cent of the total cases, the lowest since March last year. In a day, the active COVID-19 caseload declined by 2,046. The number of people who have recuperated from the disease surged to 3,33,99,961, while the case fatality rate was recorded at 1.33 per cent. As many as 9,23,003 tests were conducted on Friday, taking the cumulative tests conducted so far for the detection of COVID-19 in the country to 58,98,35,258. Over 97.23 crore Covid vaccine doses have been administered in the country till now under the nationwide vaccination drive. Also Read | UK lab suspended after false negative Covid tests India's COVID-19 tally had crossed the 20-lakh mark on August 7, 2020, 30 lakh on August 23, 40 lakh on September 5 and 50 lakh on September 16. It went past 60 lakh on September 28, 70 lakh on October 11, crossed 80 lakh on October 29, 90 lakh on November 20 and surpassed the one-crore mark on December 19. India crossed the grim milestone of two crore on May 4 and three crore on June 23. The daily case positivity rate was recorded at 1.73 per cent, which has been less than 3 per cent for the last 47 days. The weekly positivity rate was 1.44 per cent and has been less than 3 per cent for the last 113 days, according to the Health Ministry. The 166 fatalities recorded in a day include 67 from Kerala and 29 from Maharashtra. Also Read | US Development Finance Corporation chief to visit India to boost vaccine manufacturing A total of 4,51,980 deaths have been reported so far in the country, including 1,39,734 from Maharashtra, 37,931 from Karnataka, 35,869 from Tamil Nadu, 26,734 from Kerala, 25,089 from Delhi, 22,897 from Uttar Pradesh, and 18,935 from West Bengal. The health ministry stressed that more than 70 per cent of the deaths occurred due to comorbidities. "Our figures are being reconciled with the Indian Council of Medical Research," the ministry said on its website, adding that state-wise distribution of figures is subject to further verification and reconciliation

India records 15,981 COVID-19 cases, 166 fatalities in a day

India’s power crisis on account of coal supply shortages seems to be easing thanks to the lower demand due to onset of winter in northern India and increased coal supply.

According to media reports, several states in India have rolled back orders to limit power supply as the situation eased.

The report said that Coal India Limited, the world's biggest miner, is expected withdraw its order to suspend coal supply to non-power utilities.

Coal stocks are likely to get replenished with increased supply with two major Indian festivals—Navratri and Durga Pooja—ending, an official said.

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However, the non-power sector complained of coal shortages and sought urgent government intervention to improve supplies and keep plants running.

The average coal stock at power plants is reportedly only enough for four days of generation but more of them were able to generate electricity without any hitch, according to October 13 data.

As of October 12, plants with a capacity of 137 GW had low stock, down from 142 GW.

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Average spot prices on the Indian Energy Exchange cooled to Rs 9.67 per unit on Friday for Saturday delivery, from Rs 14 last week. Friday was shut for Dussehra.

A top state power official in India’s western Punjab said the power crisis was abating.

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He said the state, which witnessed power cuts last week, reported no new blackouts due to low coal stocks at power stations and rolled back electricity curbs on industrial units.

A similar situation prevailed in other states—Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan—with the officials not reporting any new power cuts due to coal supply at power plants.

Restrictions will be eased in the next 10 to 12 days, by which time average inventory at power stations is expected to reach a comfortable level of six to seven days, a senior government official was quoted as saying by local media.

Coal&nbsp;accounts for nearly 70 per cent of&nbsp;India's electricity generation and around three-quarters of the fossil fuel is mined domestically.

As Asia's third-largest economy rebounds following a coronavirus wave, heavy monsoon rains&nbsp;flooded&nbsp;coal&nbsp;mines and disrupted transport networks, leading to a sharp rise in prices for&nbsp;coal&nbsp;buyers, including&nbsp;power&nbsp;stations.&nbsp;

International&nbsp;coal&nbsp;prices have also soared.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

India’s power crisis on account of coal supply shortages seems to be easing thanks to the lower demand due to onset of winter in northern India and increased coal supply.

India’s power crisis on account of coal supply shortages seems to be easing thanks to the lower demand due to onset of winter in northern India and increased coal supply. According to media reports, several states in India have rolled back orders to limit power supply as the situation eased. The report said that Coal India Limited, the world's biggest miner, is expected withdraw its order to suspend coal supply to non-power utilities. Coal stocks are likely to get replenished with increased supply with two major Indian festivals—Navratri and Durga Pooja—ending, an official said. Also read | India to increase coal production to two million tonnes per day in a week's time However, the non-power sector complained of coal shortages and sought urgent government intervention to improve supplies and keep plants running. The average coal stock at power plants is reportedly only enough for four days of generation but more of them were able to generate electricity without any hitch, according to October 13 data. As of October 12, plants with a capacity of 137 GW had low stock, down from 142 GW. Also read | India to set up national mission on using biomass in coal-based thermal power plants Average spot prices on the Indian Energy Exchange cooled to Rs 9.67 per unit on Friday for Saturday delivery, from Rs 14 last week. Friday was shut for Dussehra. A top state power official in India’s western Punjab said the power crisis was abating. Also read | China orders mines to up coal production by nearly 100 million tonnes: State media He said the state, which witnessed power cuts last week, reported no new blackouts due to low coal stocks at power stations and rolled back electricity curbs on industrial units. A similar situation prevailed in other states—Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan—with the officials not reporting any new power cuts due to coal supply at power plants. Restrictions will be eased in the next 10 to 12 days, by which time average inventory at power stations is expected to reach a comfortable level of six to seven days, a senior government official was quoted as saying by local media. Coal accounts for nearly 70 per cent of India's electricity generation and around three-quarters of the fossil fuel is mined domestically. As Asia's third-largest economy rebounds following a coronavirus wave, heavy monsoon rains flooded coal mines and disrupted transport networks, leading to a sharp rise in prices for coal buyers, including power stations. International coal prices have also soared. (With inputs from agencies)

India’s power crisis eases on account of increased coal supply, onset of winter

In an exclusive conversation with WION's correspondent Molly Gambhir, India's chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Karambir Singh talked about the Malabar exercise.

Talking about the origin of the Malabar exercise, he said it was started as a bilateral drill between the Indian Navy and the US Navy in the Indian Ocean. Meanwhile, Japan became a permanent member of the exercise in 2015.

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''The larger message is that the four nations participating in the Malabar exercise have a common vision and goal, that is, of a free and open and inclusive Indo-Pacific region,'' he added.

According to Karambir Singh, ''the scope of the expansion may shift from inter-operability to inter-changeability as the next step.''

''To increase the complexity of the Malabar exercise, we have introduced live firings and high levels of exercises.''

Chief of US naval operations Admiral Michael Gilday on Thursday hosted Indian Navy Chief Admiral Karambir Singh and 11 other senior military officials aboard nuclear-powered US aircraft carrier Carl Vinson in the Bay of Bengal.

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The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier is part of the deployment by the US Navy in the second phase of the ongoing Malabar exercise featuring the navies of all four Quad countries, India, the US, Australia, and Japan.

US Charge d'Affaires Patricia Lacina, who also participated in the visit to Carl Vinson said ''Malabar exercise is a showcase example of defense collaboration between our four partnering countries, demonstrating what we can accomplish when we work together to advance our common interests in the Indo-Pacific.''

"We stand committed to ensure peace, security, and economic prosperity in the region and beyond," she added.

In an exclusive conversation with WION's correspondent Molly Gambhir, India's chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Karambir Singh talked about the Malabar exercise. Talking about the origin of the Malabar exercise, he said it was started as a bilateral drill between the Indian Navy and the US Navy in the Indian Ocean.

In an exclusive conversation with WION's correspondent Molly Gambhir, India's chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Karambir Singh talked about the Malabar exercise. Talking about the origin of the Malabar exercise, he said it was started as a bilateral drill between the Indian Navy and the US Navy in the Indian Ocean. Meanwhile, Japan became a permanent member of the exercise in 2015. ''The larger message is that the four nations participating in the Malabar exercise have a common vision and goal, that is, of a free and open and inclusive Indo-Pacific region,'' he added. According to Karambir Singh, ''the scope of the expansion may shift from inter-operability to inter-changeability as the next step.'' ''To increase the complexity of the Malabar exercise, we have introduced live firings and high levels of exercises.'' Chief of US naval operations Admiral Michael Gilday on Thursday hosted Indian Navy Chief Admiral Karambir Singh and 11 other senior military officials aboard nuclear-powered US aircraft carrier Carl Vinson in the Bay of Bengal. Also read | Top US naval commander hosts senior Indian Navy officers aboard USS Carl Vinson The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier is part of the deployment by the US Navy in the second phase of the ongoing Malabar exercise featuring the navies of all four Quad countries, India, the US, Australia, and Japan. US Charge d'Affaires Patricia Lacina, who also participated in the visit to Carl Vinson said ''Malabar exercise is a showcase example of defense collaboration between our four partnering countries, demonstrating what we can accomplish when we work together to advance our common interests in the Indo-Pacific.'' "We stand committed to ensure peace, security, and economic prosperity in the region and beyond," she added.

Malabar exercise focuses on free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific region: Karambir Singh

India's Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman here said climate financing continues to be an area of worry as she flagged concerns over funding mechanism and technology transfer.

It is unclear how the USD100 billion per year commitment given in the wake of COP21 has been extended, Sitharaman said after the conclusion of her meetings at the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank here.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/make-india-the-worlds-biggest-military-power-pm-modi-inaugurates-seven-new-state-run-defence-firms-420972">Make India the world's biggest military power: PM Modi inaugurates seven new State-run defence firms</a>

"From my side of course one of the issues that I did raise and it is also something which many people do take cognisance of is we actually don't know if there were any measures given to measure if money spent on a particular project by somebody will be part of that USD100 billion," Sitharaman said.

"So, what constitutes USD100 billion&nbsp;How do we measure if actually USD100 billion has been given or only some of them has been given&nbsp;So, not just that USD100 billion per year is coming or not but how do we measure that it is indeed coming or not, is also one of the issues," she said.

Sitharaman said several participants both in the IMF and World Bank meetings highlighted that issue. 
"So funding is continuing to be a question of worry for many countries, as much as even the transfer of technology," she said.

"The issue is, again, as much as it is in the fund, do we know which technology that we are asking for transfer&nbsp;Do we know which are those things which have to be considered for the debate and transfer of technology," she said.

Responding to a question, the finance minister asserted that her view on this was not a reflection of her dissatisfaction.

Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-has-faced-covid-crisis-with-resilience-and-fortitude-sitharaman-420857">&nbsp;India has faced Covid crisis with resilience and fortitude: Sitharaman</a>

"I'm not stating it's a statement of this dissatisfaction because India's commitments are fulfilled. There are only six countries which kept the nationally determined commitments.

India's more than done it, and also submitted a report to show that this is what we have done. What had to be achieved by 2030, we have achieved already almost achieved, and now we've scaled up our expectations on renewable, we are touching 450 GW,&nbsp;she said.

"So, I don't think I can be even for a moment, disappointed or dissatisfied, clearly from our side. We are moving with our own resources in fulfilling our commitments," the minister said. 
There are things to be done, she acknowledged.

"It is reminding, because the level at which many countries are, the levels of development at which each one has to be able to comply with an even a nationally determined commitment itself means a lot," she said.

Sitharaman also expressed concern over growing oil prices.

"So even as I'm putting more money into renewables and trying to be cleaner in the energy that we produce, this price rise is something which is going to be of worry to me," she said.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nihang-group-confesses-to-murder-of-man-at-singhu-border-421019">Nihang group confesses to murder of man at Singhu Border</a>

Responding to a question, the finance minister said that sustainable debt funding was discussed during the meetings.

In addition to her meetings at the IMF and the World Bank, Sitharaman had more than 25 bilateral engagements.

Sitharaman has concluded the Washington DC-leg of her US trip.

From here, she will go to New York for an interactive session with the business community before flying back home.&nbsp;She started her week-long trip from Boston.

India's Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman here said climate financing continues to be an area of worry as she flagged concerns over funding mechanism and technology transfer.

India's Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman here said climate financing continues to be an area of worry as she flagged concerns over funding mechanism and technology transfer. It is unclear how the USD100 billion per year commitment given in the wake of COP21 has been extended, Sitharaman said after the conclusion of her meetings at the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank here. Also Read | Make India the world's biggest military power: PM Modi inaugurates seven new State-run defence firms "From my side of course one of the issues that I did raise and it is also something which many people do take cognisance of is we actually don't know if there were any measures given to measure if money spent on a particular project by somebody will be part of that USD100 billion," Sitharaman said. "So, what constitutes USD100 billion How do we measure if actually USD100 billion has been given or only some of them has been given So, not just that USD100 billion per year is coming or not but how do we measure that it is indeed coming or not, is also one of the issues," she said. Sitharaman said several participants both in the IMF and World Bank meetings highlighted that issue. "So funding is continuing to be a question of worry for many countries, as much as even the transfer of technology," she said. "The issue is, again, as much as it is in the fund, do we know which technology that we are asking for transfer Do we know which are those things which have to be considered for the debate and transfer of technology," she said. Responding to a question, the finance minister asserted that her view on this was not a reflection of her dissatisfaction. Also Read | India has faced Covid crisis with resilience and fortitude: Sitharaman "I'm not stating it's a statement of this dissatisfaction because India's commitments are fulfilled. There are only six countries which kept the nationally determined commitments. India's more than done it, and also submitted a report to show that this is what we have done. What had to be achieved by 2030, we have achieved already almost achieved, and now we've scaled up our expectations on renewable, we are touching 450 GW, she said. "So, I don't think I can be even for a moment, disappointed or dissatisfied, clearly from our side. We are moving with our own resources in fulfilling our commitments," the minister said. There are things to be done, she acknowledged. "It is reminding, because the level at which many countries are, the levels of development at which each one has to be able to comply with an even a nationally determined commitment itself means a lot," she said. Sitharaman also expressed concern over growing oil prices. "So even as I'm putting more money into renewables and trying to be cleaner in the energy that we produce, this price rise is something which is going to be of worry to me," she said. Also Read | Nihang group confesses to murder of man at Singhu Border Responding to a question, the finance minister said that sustainable debt funding was discussed during the meetings. In addition to her meetings at the IMF and the World Bank, Sitharaman had more than 25 bilateral engagements. Sitharaman has concluded the Washington DC-leg of her US trip. From here, she will go to New York for an interactive session with the business community before flying back home. She started her week-long trip from Boston.

Climate financing area of worry, says India's finance minister Sitharaman

A counter insurgency operation entered the fifth day on Saturday in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch and Rajouri districts as the Army deployed para commandos to eliminate terrorists whose exact number is still not known.

Police sources said traffic on the Poonch-Rajouri highway remained closed in Bhimber Gali area for the third straight day.

Also Read |&nbsp;Malabar exercise focuses on free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific region: Karambir Singh

Five soldiers, including a Junior Commissioned Officer (JCO), were killed in the first exchange of gunfire between the combing troops and the terrorists on Tuesday.

On Friday, two soldiers were killed, while reports said a JCO who was missing.

But there has been no official confirmation on the missing JCO.

Para commandos have been deployed in the densely forested Nar Khas area where the two soldiers were killed on Friday.

Defence sources said initially the operation had started following reports that three terrorists and a local guide were seen in the Dhera Ki Gali (DKG) area.

Also Read |&nbsp;'Hybrid or part time terrorists': A new challenge for security forces

"After the firing exchanges started in Mendhar area while the engagement with the terrorists was going on in DGK area, it is likely that there are two groups of terrorists, one operating in Poonch district and the other in Rajouri district.

"The exact number of terrorists would be known after they are eliminated," the defence sources said.

They added that two locals have been detained by police for questioning in connection with providing food and shelter to the terrorists.

A counter insurgency operation entered the fifth day on Saturday in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch and Rajouri districts as the Army deployed para commandos to eliminate terrorists whose exact number is still not known.

A counter insurgency operation entered the fifth day on Saturday in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch and Rajouri districts as the Army deployed para commandos to eliminate terrorists whose exact number is still not known. Police sources said traffic on the Poonch-Rajouri highway remained closed in Bhimber Gali area for the third straight day. Also Read | Malabar exercise focuses on free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific region: Karambir Singh Five soldiers, including a Junior Commissioned Officer (JCO), were killed in the first exchange of gunfire between the combing troops and the terrorists on Tuesday. On Friday, two soldiers were killed, while reports said a JCO who was missing. But there has been no official confirmation on the missing JCO. Para commandos have been deployed in the densely forested Nar Khas area where the two soldiers were killed on Friday. Defence sources said initially the operation had started following reports that three terrorists and a local guide were seen in the Dhera Ki Gali (DKG) area. Also Read | 'Hybrid or part time terrorists': A new challenge for security forces "After the firing exchanges started in Mendhar area while the engagement with the terrorists was going on in DGK area, it is likely that there are two groups of terrorists, one operating in Poonch district and the other in Rajouri district. "The exact number of terrorists would be known after they are eliminated," the defence sources said. They added that two locals have been detained by police for questioning in connection with providing food and shelter to the terrorists.

Anti-terror operation in India's Jammu and Kashmir enters 5th day

According to the sources, Amazon India engaged in unethical and anti-competitive practices which include the emulation of other companies' products and the manipulation of search results on their website to make their products appear at the top.

The bigtech crackdown: Amazon India accused of manipulating search results

At least six people died and a dozen were missing on Saturday as heavy rains pounded south and central Kerala causing flash floods and landslides in many parts, prompting the state government to seek the assistance of the defence forces for rescue operations.

Several people have been injured and displaced in rain-related incidents in the southern state where dams in many districts are nearing its full capacity and small towns and villages in the hilly areas are totally cut off from the outside world.

Many hilly areas of Kottayam, Idukki and Pathanamthitta are experiencing almost similar to that of the situation the state faced during the time of devastating floods of 2018 and 2019 but authorities said everything was under control and there was no need for any panic.

However, the rescue teams of the state police and fire force could not reach the affected areas due to floods and adverse weather conditions prevailing there.

"The situation is serious", Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said. He, however, said the latest weather forecast indicates that the situation is not going to get worse.

Officials said personnel of the Army, Airforce and the Navy were on the way to Koottickal and Peruvanthanam--the two hilly villages falling under Kottayam and Idukki districts respectively--where an overflowing river swept through houses, displacing and isolating many.

State Cooperation Minister V N Vasavan, who reached the neighbourhood of these landslide-hit villages, said bodies of two women and a child who died, were recovered while search was on to recover the body of a man who also lost his life in the incident.

He said at least 12 people are missing from these villages.

In a separate rain related incident, a man and a woman--both 30-years-old-- died as their car was swept away in the flood waters in Kanjar in Idukki district, police said. Their bodies have been recovered, they said.

According to a defence spokesperson, Mi-17 and Sarang Helicopters are already in standby mode to meet the requirements but they could not start operations as the weather at Kottayam is still bad. Air Force assets are still at Sulur in a standby mode, she said.

"All the bases under Southern Air Command have been put on high alert in view of the prevalent weather situation at Kerala," the spokesperson said in a statement.

"The Indian Army has already deployed army personnel to the flood affected areas. One column consisting of One Officer, 2 JCOs and 30 other ranks of army personnel already moved to Kanjirappally, Kottayam District from Pangode Military Station...," she said.

The Southern Naval Command of the Indian Navy said it is fully ready for assisting local administration in rescue operations.

"Diving&amp;Rescue teams are ready to be deployed at short notice.Helicopters stand-by to be launched once weather is conducive for Air Ops,", it said in a tweet.

Earlier, Minister for Cooperation and Registration V N Vasavan said at least three houses have been washed away in Kottayam district and some people feared missing.

"At least four landslips have been reported from various parts of Kottayam district. We have sought the assistance of the Airforce to rescue people who are stranded in the Koottickal area. We have received information about some people missing and over 60 waiting to be rescued as water entered their homes," the Minister told PTI.

According to the latest update of the India Meteorological Department, 'Red Alert' was sounded for six districts--Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Idukki, Thrissur and Palakkad districts.

Kottayam and Pathanamthitta are the most affected districts as of now due to heavy rains since Friday night.

Visuals have emerged on social media from various parts of Kottayam district, including a KSRTC bus stuck in floodwater and locals rescuing passengers from it.

Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan chaired a high-level meeting in the evening to review the rain situation and decided to strengthen rescue operations in all affected areas.

In a statement, the Chief Minister said all government agencies have been directed to take necessary steps to rescue people from the affected regions and evacuate those living in areas prone to landslides and floods. Vijayan also directed the district collectors to open relief camps to relocate the affected people.

He said the camps should function strictly adhering to COVID-19 protocol.

In the wake of warning that the rains would continue till October 19, the meeting also decided not to allow pilgrims to trek to the Sabarimala Ayyappa temple, situated in a dense forest in Pathanamthitta district, till October 18. The temple was opened at 5pm today for 'Thula masam' poojas.

Higher educational institutions, which were scheduled to open on October 18, will start on October 20, the statement said.

Appealing to the people of the state to keep extra vigil in the next 24 hours, the CM said in a Facebook post that the rains have already hit the south and central districts and it would intensify in the northern districts also by the evening as per the weather forecast.

The water level in some rivers is expected to rise and shutters of certain dams are likely to be opened, he said, adding that those living in its catchment areas should be ready to follow the instructions of authorities.

The CM also said a Red alert has been sounded for the dams under KSEB, including Kakki dam in Pathanamthitta, Sholayar in Thrissur, Kundala and Kallarkutti in Idukki.

Meanwhile, two children had a miraculous escape after a portion of the wall of their house collapsed in incessant rains on Friday night at Chempakamangalam in the capital district where rains have been battering the city and rural areas alike since last night.

The wall collapsed on the bed, where the children were asleep, but they escaped with minor injuries, family sources said.

Government authorities have advised people against visiting tourist places and going near rivers and other water bodies in view of heavy rains in Thiruvananthapuram.

Destruction of roads was reported in many places including in Kollam and Kottayam districts while severe waterlogging made life miserable in Kuttanad region, popularly known as the 'rice bowl' of the state spread in Alappuzha and Kottayam districts.

The Thrissur district administration urged people living in low-lying and other disaster prone areas and on the banks of rivers to move to safer places.

Fishing boats have been prohibited from venturing into the sea, they added. 
A red alert has also been issued for Chulliyar dam in Palakkad and Peechi dam in Thrissur, which are under the irrigation department.

Revenue Minister K Rajan said necessary precautions have been taken."We have asked the district collectors to issue warnings to people residing along the river banks," Rajan said.&nbsp;

At least six people died and a dozen were missing on Saturday as heavy rains pounded south and central Kerala causing flash floods and landslides in many parts, prompting the state government to seek the assistance of the defence forces for rescue operations.

At least six people died and a dozen were missing on Saturday as heavy rains pounded south and central Kerala causing flash floods and landslides in many parts, prompting the state government to seek the assistance of the defence forces for rescue operations. Several people have been injured and displaced in rain-related incidents in the southern state where dams in many districts are nearing its full capacity and small towns and villages in the hilly areas are totally cut off from the outside world. Many hilly areas of Kottayam, Idukki and Pathanamthitta are experiencing almost similar to that of the situation the state faced during the time of devastating floods of 2018 and 2019 but authorities said everything was under control and there was no need for any panic. However, the rescue teams of the state police and fire force could not reach the affected areas due to floods and adverse weather conditions prevailing there. "The situation is serious", Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said. He, however, said the latest weather forecast indicates that the situation is not going to get worse. Officials said personnel of the Army, Airforce and the Navy were on the way to Koottickal and Peruvanthanam--the two hilly villages falling under Kottayam and Idukki districts respectively--where an overflowing river swept through houses, displacing and isolating many. State Cooperation Minister V N Vasavan, who reached the neighbourhood of these landslide-hit villages, said bodies of two women and a child who died, were recovered while search was on to recover the body of a man who also lost his life in the incident. He said at least 12 people are missing from these villages. In a separate rain related incident, a man and a woman--both 30-years-old-- died as their car was swept away in the flood waters in Kanjar in Idukki district, police said. Their bodies have been recovered, they said. According to a defence spokesperson, Mi-17 and Sarang Helicopters are already in standby mode to meet the requirements but they could not start operations as the weather at Kottayam is still bad. Air Force assets are still at Sulur in a standby mode, she said. "All the bases under Southern Air Command have been put on high alert in view of the prevalent weather situation at Kerala," the spokesperson said in a statement. "The Indian Army has already deployed army personnel to the flood affected areas. One column consisting of One Officer, 2 JCOs and 30 other ranks of army personnel already moved to Kanjirappally, Kottayam District from Pangode Military Station...," she said. The Southern Naval Command of the Indian Navy said it is fully ready for assisting local administration in rescue operations. "Diving&Rescue teams are ready to be deployed at short notice.Helicopters stand-by to be launched once weather is conducive for Air Ops,", it said in a tweet. Earlier, Minister for Cooperation and Registration V N Vasavan said at least three houses have been washed away in Kottayam district and some people feared missing. "At least four landslips have been reported from various parts of Kottayam district. We have sought the assistance of the Airforce to rescue people who are stranded in the Koottickal area. We have received information about some people missing and over 60 waiting to be rescued as water entered their homes," the Minister told PTI. According to the latest update of the India Meteorological Department, 'Red Alert' was sounded for six districts--Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Idukki, Thrissur and Palakkad districts. Kottayam and Pathanamthitta are the most affected districts as of now due to heavy rains since Friday night. Visuals have emerged on social media from various parts of Kottayam district, including a KSRTC bus stuck in floodwater and locals rescuing passengers from it. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan chaired a high-level meeting in the evening to review the rain situation and decided to strengthen rescue operations in all affected areas. In a statement, the Chief Minister said all government agencies have been directed to take necessary steps to rescue people from the affected regions and evacuate those living in areas prone to landslides and floods. Vijayan also directed the district collectors to open relief camps to relocate the affected people. He said the camps should function strictly adhering to COVID-19 protocol. In the wake of warning that the rains would continue till October 19, the meeting also decided not to allow pilgrims to trek to the Sabarimala Ayyappa temple, situated in a dense forest in Pathanamthitta district, till October 18. The temple was opened at 5pm today for 'Thula masam' poojas. Higher educational institutions, which were scheduled to open on October 18, will start on October 20, the statement said. Appealing to the people of the state to keep extra vigil in the next 24 hours, the CM said in a Facebook post that the rains have already hit the south and central districts and it would intensify in the northern districts also by the evening as per the weather forecast. The water level in some rivers is expected to rise and shutters of certain dams are likely to be opened, he said, adding that those living in its catchment areas should be ready to follow the instructions of authorities. The CM also said a Red alert has been sounded for the dams under KSEB, including Kakki dam in Pathanamthitta, Sholayar in Thrissur, Kundala and Kallarkutti in Idukki. Meanwhile, two children had a miraculous escape after a portion of the wall of their house collapsed in incessant rains on Friday night at Chempakamangalam in the capital district where rains have been battering the city and rural areas alike since last night. The wall collapsed on the bed, where the children were asleep, but they escaped with minor injuries, family sources said. Government authorities have advised people against visiting tourist places and going near rivers and other water bodies in view of heavy rains in Thiruvananthapuram. Destruction of roads was reported in many places including in Kollam and Kottayam districts while severe waterlogging made life miserable in Kuttanad region, popularly known as the 'rice bowl' of the state spread in Alappuzha and Kottayam districts. The Thrissur district administration urged people living in low-lying and other disaster prone areas and on the banks of rivers to move to safer places. Fishing boats have been prohibited from venturing into the sea, they added. A red alert has also been issued for Chulliyar dam in Palakkad and Peechi dam in Thrissur, which are under the irrigation department. Revenue Minister K Rajan said necessary precautions have been taken."We have asked the district collectors to issue warnings to people residing along the river banks," Rajan said.

Six people dead, a dozen reported missing as rains lash Kerala

India has proposed to host an in-person meet of the National Security Advisors (NSA) on Afghanistan in Delhi in November. Many countries in the region and key stakeholders like Russia and Pakistan have been invited.

The meet was to take place earlier this year, but it could not materialise.&nbsp;

Pakistani sources confirmed that Pakistan's National security advisor Moeed Yusuf received the invitation last week.

If his attendance is confirmed, then this will be Pakistan&nbsp;NSA Yusuf's first official visit to Delhi. Both Indian NSA Doval and Pakistani NSA Yusuf were in Dushanbe, Tajikistan, earlier this year for the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) NSA meet, but no bilateral meeting took place.

Two dates have been proposed for the in-person meet—10th and 11th November—for the meeting in Delhi.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/avoid-public-executions-unless-ordered-by-top-court-taliban-regime-tells-local-officials-in-afghanistan-421149">Avoid public executions unless ordered by top court, Taliban regime tells local officials in Afghanistan</a>

The proposal to host the meeting comes even as the situation in Afghanistan remains precarious and with the onset of winters, worries have mounted over the deterioration of the humanitarian situation.&nbsp;

Last week marked two months since the fall of Kabul to the Taliban militants. The Taliban leadership have visited Qatar, Turkey and Uzbekistan hoping to get recognition and legitimacy for the newly formed government, but so far, no such indication has been given by the global community.

In the following week, Russia will be hosting Moscow format of talks involving Taliban, Pakistan, China and India.

In response to a WION question on Thursday, MEA Spokesperson Arindam Bagchi confirmed India’s presence at the Moscow talks.

“We have received an invitation for the Moscow format meeting on Afghanistan on October 20. We will be participating in it. I don’t have final confirmation of who will be attending, but it’s likely that we will be attended at the Joint Secretary level.”&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/plans-underway-to-form-afghan-government-in-exile-421031">Plans underway to form Afghan government in-exile</a>

This will be the second time that India will be publicly seen sitting with the Taliban. On August 31, Indian envoy to Qatar, Deepak Mittal, and Taliban's Sher Mohammad Abbas Stanekzai had met at the Indian embassy in Doha.

The Indian ministry of external affairs confirming the meet said that it&nbsp;happened “on the request of the Taliban side”.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-offers-condolence-payments-relocation-to-kin-of-afghans-killed-in-botched-drone-attack-421207">US offers condolence payments, relocation to kin of Afghans killed in botched drone attack</a>

During the meet, India discussed issues like the safe return of Indian nationals from Afghanistan, concerns over use of Afghan soil for anti-India activities.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi also raised the Afghanistan situation at the special SCO meet and during his address to the United Nations General Assembly in September and also at the G20 virtual meet hosted by Italy this month.

At the SCO CSTO outreach summit, PM highlighted that “transition of power in Afghanistan is not inclusive, and it has happened without negotiation”, essentially listing out New Delhi's red lines.

At the G20 virtual meet on Afghanistan, he emphasized the need for the international community to ensure that Afghanistan has “immediate and unhindered access” to humanitarian assistance.

India has proposed to host an in-person meet of the National Security Advisors (NSA) on Afghanistan in Delhi in November. Many countries in the region and key stakeholders like Russia and Pakistan have been invited.

India has proposed to host an in-person meet of the National Security Advisors (NSA) on Afghanistan in Delhi in November. Many countries in the region and key stakeholders like Russia and Pakistan have been invited. The meet was to take place earlier this year, but it could not materialise. Pakistani sources confirmed that Pakistan's National security advisor Moeed Yusuf received the invitation last week. If his attendance is confirmed, then this will be Pakistan NSA Yusuf's first official visit to Delhi. Both Indian NSA Doval and Pakistani NSA Yusuf were in Dushanbe, Tajikistan, earlier this year for the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) NSA meet, but no bilateral meeting took place. Two dates have been proposed for the in-person meet—10th and 11th November—for the meeting in Delhi. Also read | Avoid public executions unless ordered by top court, Taliban regime tells local officials in Afghanistan The proposal to host the meeting comes even as the situation in Afghanistan remains precarious and with the onset of winters, worries have mounted over the deterioration of the humanitarian situation. Last week marked two months since the fall of Kabul to the Taliban militants. The Taliban leadership have visited Qatar, Turkey and Uzbekistan hoping to get recognition and legitimacy for the newly formed government, but so far, no such indication has been given by the global community. In the following week, Russia will be hosting Moscow format of talks involving Taliban, Pakistan, China and India. In response to a WION question on Thursday, MEA Spokesperson Arindam Bagchi confirmed India’s presence at the Moscow talks. “We have received an invitation for the Moscow format meeting on Afghanistan on October 20. We will be participating in it. I don’t have final confirmation of who will be attending, but it’s likely that we will be attended at the Joint Secretary level.” Also read | Plans underway to form Afghan government in-exile This will be the second time that India will be publicly seen sitting with the Taliban. On August 31, Indian envoy to Qatar, Deepak Mittal, and Taliban's Sher Mohammad Abbas Stanekzai had met at the Indian embassy in Doha. The Indian ministry of external affairs confirming the meet said that it happened “on the request of the Taliban side”. Also read | US offers condolence payments, relocation to kin of Afghans killed in botched drone attack During the meet, India discussed issues like the safe return of Indian nationals from Afghanistan, concerns over use of Afghan soil for anti-India activities. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi also raised the Afghanistan situation at the special SCO meet and during his address to the United Nations General Assembly in September and also at the G20 virtual meet hosted by Italy this month. At the SCO CSTO outreach summit, PM highlighted that “transition of power in Afghanistan is not inclusive, and it has happened without negotiation”, essentially listing out New Delhi's red lines. At the G20 virtual meet on Afghanistan, he emphasized the need for the international community to ensure that Afghanistan has “immediate and unhindered access” to humanitarian assistance.

India to host in-person NSA meet on Afghanistan, Pakistan's Moeed Yusuf invited

India's former Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh was diagnosed with dengue at All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), in New Delhi. The hospital said that his condition was improving.

"He has been diagnosed with dengue but his platelet count is now increasing and his condition is improving," an AIIMS official said Saturday.

Manmohan Singh (89) was admitted to AIIMS hospital on Wednesday (October 13) after he complained of weakness following a fever

Singh has been admitted to a private ward in the cardio-neuro centre of the hospital and is under the care of a team of cardiologists led by Dr Nitish Naik.

Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya met Singh on Thursday and enquired about his health.

A row erupted after Mandaviya's visit as he allegedly took a photographer with him while visiting the former prime minister.

Manmohan Singh's daughter, Daman Singh, had hit out at Mandaviya for getting a photographer against the wishes of the family.

(With inputs from agencies)

India's former Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh was diagnosed with dengue at All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), in New Delhi. The hospital said that his condition was improving.

India's former Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh was diagnosed with dengue at All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), in New Delhi. The hospital said that his condition was improving. "He has been diagnosed with dengue but his platelet count is now increasing and his condition is improving," an AIIMS official said Saturday. Manmohan Singh (89) was admitted to AIIMS hospital on Wednesday (October 13) after he complained of weakness following a fever Singh has been admitted to a private ward in the cardio-neuro centre of the hospital and is under the care of a team of cardiologists led by Dr Nitish Naik. Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya met Singh on Thursday and enquired about his health. A row erupted after Mandaviya's visit as he allegedly took a photographer with him while visiting the former prime minister. Manmohan Singh's daughter, Daman Singh, had hit out at Mandaviya for getting a photographer against the wishes of the family. (With inputs from agencies)

Former Indian PM Manmohan Singh diagnosed with dengue, health improving

Being a superpower can be defined as the extensive ability to exert influence on an international scale. 
 
It is the state of possessing the might, both economic and military that is superior in comparison to other countries.

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According to the 'World Population Review 2021,' the powerful country in the world is the United States, followed by China, Russia, Germany, and the United Kingdom.

The survey ranks 80 countries on the basis of five criteria: international and military alliances, political and economic influence, and leadership skills.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/make-india-the-worlds-biggest-military-power-pm-modi-inaugurates-seven-new-state-run-defence-firms-420972" hreflang="en">Make India the world's biggest military power: PM inaugurates 7 defence firms</a> 
 
The US tops the list with a massive GDP of $21 trillion. Meanwhile, China has a GDP of $14 trillion. 
 
Despite being defended by US Biden Joe Biden as a 'necessary measure,' the controversial withdrawal of troops from Afghanistan after two decades of war, the country is being deemed as a hegemon in retreat by critics.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/malabar-exercise-focuses-on-free-open-and-inclusive-indo-pacific-region-karambir-singh-420903" hreflang="en">Live firings &amp; high levels of exercises introduced in Malabar: Karambir Singh</a> 
 
President Vladimir Putin had himself said that the US and Russia no longer decide the answers to the most important questions in the world. 
 
He added that China and Germany are headed for superpower status due to the waning influence and the US. 
 
India occupies the 13th spot on the list with a GDP of almost $3 trillion. Its rich talent pool and affordable connectivity are crucial factors that will improve its ranking in the future.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-all-the-countries-with-which-china-is-in-a-territorial-dispute-419867">Also see |&nbsp;In Pics: All the countries with which China is in a territorial dispute</a>

Amid the evolving Asian balance of power, India's strength lies in its strategic location. 
 
As a result, countries such as the US, Japan, and Australia are working closely with India to combat China's growing influence in the Indo-Pacific region. 
 
From 1991 to 2019, India's GDP by Purchasing Power Parity (PPP) has increased by 772 per cent from $1 trillion to $9 trillion. 
 
However, the country's population has grown 209 per cent from 1960 to 2021, that is, from 450 million to 1.39 billion people. 
 
While this reduces the per capita income, in the long term, this growth will keep the country's labour force young and large. 
 
This will provide India a major economic advantage over the US, China, and the European Union, which will face a decline in there labour force in the next 30 years. 
 
India's PPP is expected to reach $43 trillion and surpass the US by 2050 making it the second-largest economy in the world after China. 
 
To boost its infrastructure, India is focusing on several large-scale megaprojects to develop a golden quadrilateral between its metropolitan cities. 
 
In addition to its 11 corridor projects, it is concentrating on a $75 billion national highways and roadways programme called 'Bharatmala' and 'Sagarmala' project worth $116 million to build new mega ports and establish 14 coastal economic zones. 
 
India has allocated its defence spending budget 2.5 per cent of its GDP in the last three decades. Because of this, the country's defence budget along with its economy are skyrocketing. 
 
In 2019, India had spent $71 billion on its military, which is almost double its budget a decade ago. 
 
It has the third-largest defence budget in the world behind the US and China. 
 
From a booming high-tech sector to elite educational institutes, India has the potential to become a superpower with rapid digitalisation. 
 
Although the increased competition leads to faster economic growth and technological innovation, most economies are not prone to accept change easily. 
 
Armed conflict is often the result of the rapid rise and military and economic power. It is a major challenge to harness the spirit of challenge while avoiding its ripple effect.

Being a superpower can be defined as the extensive ability to exert influence on an international scale. It is the state of possessing the might, both economic and military that is superior in comparison to other countries.

Being a superpower can be defined as the extensive ability to exert influence on an international scale. It is the state of possessing the might, both economic and military that is superior in comparison to other countries. According to the 'World Population Review 2021,' the powerful country in the world is the United States, followed by China, Russia, Germany, and the United Kingdom. The survey ranks 80 countries on the basis of five criteria: international and military alliances, political and economic influence, and leadership skills. Also read | Make India the world's biggest military power: PM inaugurates 7 defence firms The US tops the list with a massive GDP of $21 trillion. Meanwhile, China has a GDP of $14 trillion. Despite being defended by US Biden Joe Biden as a 'necessary measure,' the controversial withdrawal of troops from Afghanistan after two decades of war, the country is being deemed as a hegemon in retreat by critics. Also read | Live firings & high levels of exercises introduced in Malabar: Karambir Singh President Vladimir Putin had himself said that the US and Russia no longer decide the answers to the most important questions in the world. He added that China and Germany are headed for superpower status due to the waning influence and the US. India occupies the 13th spot on the list with a GDP of almost $3 trillion. Its rich talent pool and affordable connectivity are crucial factors that will improve its ranking in the future. Also see | In Pics: All the countries with which China is in a territorial dispute Amid the evolving Asian balance of power, India's strength lies in its strategic location. As a result, countries such as the US, Japan, and Australia are working closely with India to combat China's growing influence in the Indo-Pacific region. From 1991 to 2019, India's GDP by Purchasing Power Parity (PPP) has increased by 772 per cent from $1 trillion to $9 trillion. However, the country's population has grown 209 per cent from 1960 to 2021, that is, from 450 million to 1.39 billion people. While this reduces the per capita income, in the long term, this growth will keep the country's labour force young and large. This will provide India a major economic advantage over the US, China, and the European Union, which will face a decline in there labour force in the next 30 years. India's PPP is expected to reach $43 trillion and surpass the US by 2050 making it the second-largest economy in the world after China. To boost its infrastructure, India is focusing on several large-scale megaprojects to develop a golden quadrilateral between its metropolitan cities. In addition to its 11 corridor projects, it is concentrating on a $75 billion national highways and roadways programme called 'Bharatmala' and 'Sagarmala' project worth $116 million to build new mega ports and establish 14 coastal economic zones. India has allocated its defence spending budget 2.5 per cent of its GDP in the last three decades. Because of this, the country's defence budget along with its economy are skyrocketing. In 2019, India had spent $71 billion on its military, which is almost double its budget a decade ago. It has the third-largest defence budget in the world behind the US and China. From a booming high-tech sector to elite educational institutes, India has the potential to become a superpower with rapid digitalisation. Although the increased competition leads to faster economic growth and technological innovation, most economies are not prone to accept change easily. Armed conflict is often the result of the rapid rise and military and economic power. It is a major challenge to harness the spirit of challenge while avoiding its ripple effect.

Why is India poised to become the next superpower?

13 terrorists have been killed in 9 encounters in Kashmir Valley in the last ten days. The Jammu and Kashmir Police claims to have killed 3 out of 5 terrorists from Srinagar city.&nbsp;

This comes after 7 civilian killings in the Kashmir valley recently.&nbsp;

The security was put on high alert after the recent civilian killings across the Kashmir Valley. Various search operations were carried out by the Police, Army and Paramilitary forces across the valley, which further led to encounters.

"13 terrorists have been killed in 9 encounters after civilian killings. We have neutralised 3 out of 5 terrorists of Srinagar City within less than 24 hours,'' said Vijay Kumar, IG Kashmir Police.&nbsp;

Earlier today, two terrorists including a LeT commander was killed in a gunfight in the Pampore area of Awantipora.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-security-forces-detain-over-700-terrorist-sympathisers-after-civilian-killings-419785">Also read |&nbsp;J&amp;K: Security forces detain over 700 ‘terrorist sympathisers’ after civilian killings</a>

Police had an idea about the presence of these two terrorists in the area after which a search operation was launched.&nbsp;

Police said that they also gave them an option of surrender but they denied it.&nbsp;

"We offered them to surrender but they kept firing, triggering an encounter. They were trapped in a three-storey building, which is a concrete one. We fired grenades and the building caught fire. One of the slain militants has been identified as Umar Khanday of LeT and the other has been identified as Muhammad Sultan, who was the LeT commander .”

Police said that Umar Khanday was involved in the killing of two policemen in the Baghat area of Srinagar. Security is still on high alert across the Kashmir Valley.&nbsp;

13 terrorists have been killed in 9 encounters in Kashmir Valley in the last ten days. The Jammu and Kashmir Police claims to have killed 3 out of 5 terrorists from Srinagar city.

13 terrorists have been killed in 9 encounters in Kashmir Valley in the last ten days. The Jammu and Kashmir Police claims to have killed 3 out of 5 terrorists from Srinagar city. This comes after 7 civilian killings in the Kashmir valley recently. The security was put on high alert after the recent civilian killings across the Kashmir Valley. Various search operations were carried out by the Police, Army and Paramilitary forces across the valley, which further led to encounters. "13 terrorists have been killed in 9 encounters after civilian killings. We have neutralised 3 out of 5 terrorists of Srinagar City within less than 24 hours,'' said Vijay Kumar, IG Kashmir Police. Earlier today, two terrorists including a LeT commander was killed in a gunfight in the Pampore area of Awantipora. Also read | J&K: Security forces detain over 700 ‘terrorist sympathisers’ after civilian killings Police had an idea about the presence of these two terrorists in the area after which a search operation was launched. Police said that they also gave them an option of surrender but they denied it. "We offered them to surrender but they kept firing, triggering an encounter. They were trapped in a three-storey building, which is a concrete one. We fired grenades and the building caught fire. One of the slain militants has been identified as Umar Khanday of LeT and the other has been identified as Muhammad Sultan, who was the LeT commander .” Police said that Umar Khanday was involved in the killing of two policemen in the Baghat area of Srinagar. Security is still on high alert across the Kashmir Valley.

J&K: 13 terrorists killed in 9 encounters after civilian killings

India's electricity demand grew 4.9 per cent&nbsp;during the first half of October, with supply falling short of demand by 1.4 per cent despite a 3.2 per cent rise in coal-fired generation and 30 per cent rise in solar output, a Reuters analysis of government data showed.

Increased economic activity after the second wave of the coronavirus has driven up electricity demand, resulting in a supply deficit due to a coal shortage that has forced northern states to cut power this month for up to 14 hours a day.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-set-to-achieve-450-gw-renewable-energy-installed-capacity-by-2030-centre-420061">India set to achieve 450 GW renewable energy installed capacity by 2030: Centre</a>

The rapid surge in power demand and high global coal prices have left utilities scampering for coal - India's dominant source of power generation - despite record supplies from state-run Coal India, a near-monopoly in coal production compared with an average of 66.5&nbsp;per cent during the whole of September, an analysis of data from federal grid regulator POSOCO showed.

Nearly three-fifths of India's coal-fired capacities currently have coal inventories that would last three days or less, federal power ministry data shows.

The average coal inventory held by power plants would last four days, two-thirds lower than an average of 12 days two months ago.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/why-is-india-poised-to-become-the-next-superpower-421146">Why is India poised to become the next superpower?</a>

The energy hungry nation's power minister had in early September asked officials to consider diverting coal to power plants with extremely depleted stocks, and reduce inventory targets to 10 days from 14 days, to allow coal to be moved to areas of greatest shortage.

A reallocation in coal supplies over the last two months has led to an increase in the number of power plants with 1-3 days of fuel, while the number of power plants with over a week of stock has declined, the power ministry data shows.

Still, the number of utilities with no coal left increased to 18 on October 12 from 1 on August 12.

India's electricity demand grew 4.9 per cent during the first half of October, with supply falling short of demand by 1.4 per cent despite a 3.2 per cent rise in coal-fired generation and 30 per cent rise in solar output, a Reuters analysis of government data showed.

India's electricity demand grew 4.9 per cent during the first half of October, with supply falling short of demand by 1.4 per cent despite a 3.2 per cent rise in coal-fired generation and 30 per cent rise in solar output, a Reuters analysis of government data showed. Increased economic activity after the second wave of the coronavirus has driven up electricity demand, resulting in a supply deficit due to a coal shortage that has forced northern states to cut power this month for up to 14 hours a day. Also Read | India set to achieve 450 GW renewable energy installed capacity by 2030: Centre The rapid surge in power demand and high global coal prices have left utilities scampering for coal - India's dominant source of power generation - despite record supplies from state-run Coal India, a near-monopoly in coal production compared with an average of 66.5 per cent during the whole of September, an analysis of data from federal grid regulator POSOCO showed. Nearly three-fifths of India's coal-fired capacities currently have coal inventories that would last three days or less, federal power ministry data shows. The average coal inventory held by power plants would last four days, two-thirds lower than an average of 12 days two months ago. Also Read | Why is India poised to become the next superpower? The energy hungry nation's power minister had in early September asked officials to consider diverting coal to power plants with extremely depleted stocks, and reduce inventory targets to 10 days from 14 days, to allow coal to be moved to areas of greatest shortage. A reallocation in coal supplies over the last two months has led to an increase in the number of power plants with 1-3 days of fuel, while the number of power plants with over a week of stock has declined, the power ministry data shows. Still, the number of utilities with no coal left increased to 18 on October 12 from 1 on August 12.

India's electricity demand picks up in October as coal shortage lingers

A day after a 35-year-old man was found brutally lynched with his hands and legs chopped off at the farmers’ protest site at Singhu on India’s northern Delhi-Haryana border, the police on Saturday said they have arrested&nbsp;a member of the warrior Sikh order ‘Nihang’ in the case.&nbsp;

Accused Sarvjit Singh was taken into custody after he surrendered on Friday night for his alleged role in the lynching, said police. He was produced at a local court on Saturday and sent to seven days’ police custody.&nbsp;

According to reports, Singh had come to Singhu border when the contingent of Nihang Sikhs had arrived there in the first week of December last year. At the border, he was the leader of a unit that tended to the horses.&nbsp;

In several videos that came to the fore on Friday night, Singh took responsibility for killing Lakhbir Singh, a lower caste Dalit Sikh from a village in Punjab, claiming that he had desecrated the Sikh holy book.&nbsp;

Police had registered an FIR against unknown persons on Friday on charges of murder and common intention. &nbsp;

Police had said that they had received information around 5 am on Friday that Nihangs had hanged and tied a person to a barricade and his hand was chopped off. When the police reached the spot, the victim had died. &nbsp;

The Nihang Sikhs and protesters had initially refused to hand over the body to the police.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/singhu-border-killing-unfortunate-would-not-affect-protest-says-indias-farmer-leader-rakesh-tikait-421227">Singhu border killing 'unfortunate', would not affect protest, says India's farmer leader Rakesh Tikait</a>

The Samyukt Kisan Morcha, an umbrella body of farmers’ unions leading the protest, has condemned, and distanced itself from the murder. “Want to make it clear both sides —the Nihang group (and) the deceased —have no relation with the Kisan Morcha,” it said. &nbsp;

The group said it abhorred religious sacrilege but nobody could take the law into their hands. The guilty must be punished, the farmers body said, and offered the police its support.&nbsp;

The latest killing comes days after a car linked to India’s junior home minister Ajay Mishra ran over farmers protesting controversial farm laws in Lakhimpur Khiri in India’s northern Uttar Pradesh state. &nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/plea-seeks-early-hearing-of-pil-in-indias-supreme-court-on-removing-protesting-farmers-from-delhi-borders-421212">Plea seeks early hearing of PIL in India's Supreme Court on removing protesting farmers from Delhi borders</a>

Eight people died in the October 3 incident in which four of them were farmers. Infuriated, the farmers then allegedly lynched some people in the vehicle. The other dead included two BJP workers and their driver.&nbsp;

Farmers alleged that the vehicle was being driven by minister Ajay Mishra's son Ashish Mishra. The minister has denied the charge, maintaining that his son was not there when the incident happened.&nbsp;

After videos circulated on social media showed the car ramming into the protesters from behind, Ashish Mishra was arrested late on Saturday night.&nbsp;

This is not the first incident where the farmers' protest turned violent. Earlier this year on January 26—the day when India marks its Republic Day— farmers rally across Delhi turned violent&nbsp;when a group of protestors deviated from the parade to storm the&nbsp;Red Fort.

Tens of thousands of the farmers protesting agricultural reforms drove a convoy of tractors, earlier than the allotted time, to start the tractor rally into New Delhi. The farmers drove on prohibited routes in long lines of tractors, riding horses or marching on foot. However, a section of the tractor rally turned violent as the protesting farmers clashed with the police. Some of the protesters deviated from their pre-sanctioned routes permitted by Delhi Police and breached the barricades.

More than 300 police personnel were injured in the violence by protesters, who used batons and sharp weapons.

<h2>Who are Nihangs?</h2>

Nihang is an order of Sikh warriors, characterised by blue robes, antiquated arms such as swords and spears, and decorated turbans surmounted by steel quoits. According to experts, Nihangs originated from the Sanskrit word ‘nihshank’ which means without fear, unblemished, pure, carefree and indifferent to worldly gains and comfort.” &nbsp;

Nihangs had a major role in defending the Sikh Panth after the fall of the first Sikh rule (1710-15) when Mughal governors were killing Sikhs and during the onslaught of Afghan invader Ahmed Shah Durrani (1748-65).&nbsp;

The 19th-century Indian historian Rattan Singh Bhangu describes Nihangs as “unaffected by pain or comfort”, “given to meditation, penance and charity” and “complete warriors”.&nbsp;

Last year, a group of&nbsp;Nihangs had chopped off the hand of a policeman in Patiala with a sword after he asked them to show 'movement passes' during the Covid lockdown.&nbsp;

<h2>Difference between Nihangs and other Sikh warriors?&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>

Long before, the Khalsa Sikhs were divided into two groups - One who took on the blue attire that Guru Gobind Singh used to wear at war and others decided not to follow any restrictions of colour or pattern. Though they don't follow a similar dress code, both groups follow the profession of soldiery and are brave.&nbsp;

Nihangs hoist a blue Nishan Sahib (flag) on their shrines instead of a saffron one and use slogans like ‘chhardi kala’ which means forever in high spirits.&nbsp;

<h2>A year since farm protest began&nbsp;</h2>

September 17 marked one year of enforcement of the three contentious agriculture laws.&nbsp;

The three laws are the Farmers’ Produce Trade and Commerce (Promotion and Facilitation) Act, 2020; Essential Commodities (Amendment) Act, 2020; and Farmers (Empowerment and Protection) Agreement on Price Assurance and Farm Services Act, 2020. &nbsp;

The farmers fear the laws will lead to the abolishment of the minimum support price (MSP)— guaranteed assured prices on the select crops—and leave them at the mercy of big corporates.&nbsp;

The protests began on November 25 last year, when thousands of farmers — mainly from Punjab and Haryana — marched towards the national capital demanding a complete repeal of the legislations, as part of a “Dilli Chalo” campaign.&nbsp;

Several rounds of talks between farmer unions and the government have yielded no results.&nbsp;

The government says the laws will increase farmers' income, but unions see them as unfair and exploitative.&nbsp;

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called the reforms a "watershed moment" for Indian agriculture. But farmer groups said contrary to promises that the laws will help improve farm incomes and increase productivity, they will in fact expose them to the vagaries of the free market and make them poorer.&nbsp;

A day after a 35-year-old man was found brutally lynched with his hands and legs chopped off at the farmers’ protest site at Singhu on India’s northern Delhi-Haryana border, the police on Saturday said they have arrested a member of the warrior Sikh order ‘Nihang’ in the case.

A day after a 35-year-old man was found brutally lynched with his hands and legs chopped off at the farmers’ protest site at Singhu on India’s northern Delhi-Haryana border, the police on Saturday said they have arrested a member of the warrior Sikh order ‘Nihang’ in the case. Accused Sarvjit Singh was taken into custody after he surrendered on Friday night for his alleged role in the lynching, said police. He was produced at a local court on Saturday and sent to seven days’ police custody. According to reports, Singh had come to Singhu border when the contingent of Nihang Sikhs had arrived there in the first week of December last year. At the border, he was the leader of a unit that tended to the horses. In several videos that came to the fore on Friday night, Singh took responsibility for killing Lakhbir Singh, a lower caste Dalit Sikh from a village in Punjab, claiming that he had desecrated the Sikh holy book. Police had registered an FIR against unknown persons on Friday on charges of murder and common intention. Police had said that they had received information around 5 am on Friday that Nihangs had hanged and tied a person to a barricade and his hand was chopped off. When the police reached the spot, the victim had died. The Nihang Sikhs and protesters had initially refused to hand over the body to the police. Also read | Singhu border killing 'unfortunate', would not affect protest, says India's farmer leader Rakesh Tikait The Samyukt Kisan Morcha, an umbrella body of farmers’ unions leading the protest, has condemned, and distanced itself from the murder. “Want to make it clear both sides —the Nihang group (and) the deceased —have no relation with the Kisan Morcha,” it said. The group said it abhorred religious sacrilege but nobody could take the law into their hands. The guilty must be punished, the farmers body said, and offered the police its support. The latest killing comes days after a car linked to India’s junior home minister Ajay Mishra ran over farmers protesting controversial farm laws in Lakhimpur Khiri in India’s northern Uttar Pradesh state. Also read | Plea seeks early hearing of PIL in India's Supreme Court on removing protesting farmers from Delhi borders Eight people died in the October 3 incident in which four of them were farmers. Infuriated, the farmers then allegedly lynched some people in the vehicle. The other dead included two BJP workers and their driver. Farmers alleged that the vehicle was being driven by minister Ajay Mishra's son Ashish Mishra. The minister has denied the charge, maintaining that his son was not there when the incident happened. After videos circulated on social media showed the car ramming into the protesters from behind, Ashish Mishra was arrested late on Saturday night. This is not the first incident where the farmers' protest turned violent. Earlier this year on January 26—the day when India marks its Republic Day— farmers rally across Delhi turned violent when a group of protestors deviated from the parade to storm the Red Fort. Tens of thousands of the farmers protesting agricultural reforms drove a convoy of tractors, earlier than the allotted time, to start the tractor rally into New Delhi. The farmers drove on prohibited routes in long lines of tractors, riding horses or marching on foot. However, a section of the tractor rally turned violent as the protesting farmers clashed with the police. Some of the protesters deviated from their pre-sanctioned routes permitted by Delhi Police and breached the barricades. More than 300 police personnel were injured in the violence by protesters, who used batons and sharp weapons. Who are Nihangs? Nihang is an order of Sikh warriors, characterised by blue robes, antiquated arms such as swords and spears, and decorated turbans surmounted by steel quoits. According to experts, Nihangs originated from the Sanskrit word ‘nihshank’ which means without fear, unblemished, pure, carefree and indifferent to worldly gains and comfort.” Nihangs had a major role in defending the Sikh Panth after the fall of the first Sikh rule (1710-15) when Mughal governors were killing Sikhs and during the onslaught of Afghan invader Ahmed Shah Durrani (1748-65). The 19th-century Indian historian Rattan Singh Bhangu describes Nihangs as “unaffected by pain or comfort”, “given to meditation, penance and charity” and “complete warriors”. Last year, a group of Nihangs had chopped off the hand of a policeman in Patiala with a sword after he asked them to show 'movement passes' during the Covid lockdown. Difference between Nihangs and other Sikh warriors? Long before, the Khalsa Sikhs were divided into two groups - One who took on the blue attire that Guru Gobind Singh used to wear at war and others decided not to follow any restrictions of colour or pattern. Though they don't follow a similar dress code, both groups follow the profession of soldiery and are brave. Nihangs hoist a blue Nishan Sahib (flag) on their shrines instead of a saffron one and use slogans like ‘chhardi kala’ which means forever in high spirits. A year since farm protest began September 17 marked one year of enforcement of the three contentious agriculture laws. The three laws are the Farmers’ Produce Trade and Commerce (Promotion and Facilitation) Act, 2020; Essential Commodities (Amendment) Act, 2020; and Farmers (Empowerment and Protection) Agreement on Price Assurance and Farm Services Act, 2020. The farmers fear the laws will lead to the abolishment of the minimum support price (MSP)— guaranteed assured prices on the select crops—and leave them at the mercy of big corporates. The protests began on November 25 last year, when thousands of farmers — mainly from Punjab and Haryana — marched towards the national capital demanding a complete repeal of the legislations, as part of a “Dilli Chalo” campaign. Several rounds of talks between farmer unions and the government have yielded no results. The government says the laws will increase farmers' income, but unions see them as unfair and exploitative. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called the reforms a "watershed moment" for Indian agriculture. But farmer groups said contrary to promises that the laws will help improve farm incomes and increase productivity, they will in fact expose them to the vagaries of the free market and make them poorer.

Murder, killings, violence: A look at how these events shaped Indian farmers’ protest

Sri Lanka's cabinet minister for Youth and sports Namal Rajapaksa and hundred plus members of the Buddhist clergy will be in Uttar Pradesh's Kushinagar at the inauguration of its international airport.

Kushinagar is key to Buddhist pilgrim circuit. It is believed that the founder of Buddhism, Gautama Buddha, attained Mahaparinirvana at this location.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Chief Minister of the state, Yogi Adityanath, both, will be present at the location. Several other foreign envoys will also be present at the grand opening.

Namal Rajapaksa is the son of Sri Lankan Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa and a member of parliament (MP). His presence at the event shows increased engagement between the two sides.

This comes a little after the Indian Army Chief General MM Naravane and foreign secretary Harsh Shringlavisited Sri Lanka. &nbsp;Later this year, Sri Lanka will be hosting BIMSTEC summit, and PM Modi is expected to attend in-person, depending on circumstances.

Lately, there has been an increased focus on strengthening the&nbsp;Indian and Sri Lankan Buddha connect. Recently, in a conversation with WION, Sri Lankan Consul General in Mumbai Ambassador Dr. Valsan said, "Buddhism is the biggest link given to us by India. Dream of every Buddhist in Sri Lanka is to pay homage at least once in a lifetime at pilgrimage sites in India."

Another focus of the two countries is on the Ramayana link. The new Sri Lankan high commissioner Milinda Marogoda has brought with him a stone from "Sita Eliya" in Sri Lanka. This stone will be used during the construction of Ram temple at Ayodhya.

Sita Eliya is believed to be the place where Goddess Sita was held captive by Demon King Ravana. In Ramayana, the area has been mentioned as Ashok Vatika.

Sri Lanka's cabinet minister for Youth and sports Namal Rajapaksa and hundred plus members of the Buddhist clergy will be in Uttar Pradesh's Kushinagar at the inauguration of its international airport.

Sri Lanka's cabinet minister for Youth and sports Namal Rajapaksa and hundred plus members of the Buddhist clergy will be in Uttar Pradesh's Kushinagar at the inauguration of its international airport. Kushinagar is key to Buddhist pilgrim circuit. It is believed that the founder of Buddhism, Gautama Buddha, attained Mahaparinirvana at this location. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Chief Minister of the state, Yogi Adityanath, both, will be present at the location. Several other foreign envoys will also be present at the grand opening. Namal Rajapaksa is the son of Sri Lankan Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa and a member of parliament (MP). His presence at the event shows increased engagement between the two sides. This comes a little after the Indian Army Chief General MM Naravane and foreign secretary Harsh Shringlavisited Sri Lanka. Later this year, Sri Lanka will be hosting BIMSTEC summit, and PM Modi is expected to attend in-person, depending on circumstances. Lately, there has been an increased focus on strengthening the Indian and Sri Lankan Buddha connect. Recently, in a conversation with WION, Sri Lankan Consul General in Mumbai Ambassador Dr. Valsan said, "Buddhism is the biggest link given to us by India. Dream of every Buddhist in Sri Lanka is to pay homage at least once in a lifetime at pilgrimage sites in India." Another focus of the two countries is on the Ramayana link. The new Sri Lankan high commissioner Milinda Marogoda has brought with him a stone from "Sita Eliya" in Sri Lanka. This stone will be used during the construction of Ram temple at Ayodhya. Sita Eliya is believed to be the place where Goddess Sita was held captive by Demon King Ravana. In Ramayana, the area has been mentioned as Ashok Vatika.

Namal Rajapaksa, 100+ Lankan Buddhist clergy at inauguration of Kushinagar international airport

India will have a vaccine capacity of 28 crore doses this month, which includes 22 crore Serum Institute of India's Covishield and 6 crore doses of Bharat Biotech Biotech's Covaxin and production of 60 lakh Zydus Cadila's ZyCoV-D doses are also ready, said government sources.

India will have a capacity of more than 30 crores by next year per month, which includes Covishield, Covaxin, ZyCoV-D and Biological E, sources told ANI.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-development-finance-corporation-chief-to-visit-india-to-boost-vaccine-manufacturing-421167https://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>

According to the sources, the production of 60 lakh doses of Zydus Cadila's ZyCoV-D are already ready with the company and Biological E will be submitting the data till November end of phase -3 trials.

The Biological E is the third Indian company to make COVID-19 vaccines. The company has also started stockpile doses. Biological E will be providing 30 crore doses and another company that is expected to provide doses is Gennova which is the fourth Indian company doing trials of mRNA vaccines.

India is expected to get Gennova's mRNA vaccine doses by February.

Earlier, on September 2, NITI Aayog Member (Health) VK Paul had said that the Hyderabad-based pharmaceutical company, Biological E, is expected to launch its vaccine against coronavirus in October this year.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-allow-fully-vaccinated-travellers-from-november-8-white-house-421033">US to allow fully vaccinated travellers from November 8: White House</a>

Paul had told ANI that Phase 3 of Biological E's trial is underway. "Stockpile is being produced. We should wait for the results. We hope it'll be in the next month or two. They've made a broad commitment that they'll supply a significant amount by year-end.

"India procured more than 26 crore doses in the month of September also. Centre plans to achieve 100 crore doses in next week.

Earlier, it was expected to reach the target between October 10 to October 12. The delay and decline in Covid vaccination are due to the festival season and hesitation in the second dose.

India may accelerate the export of COVID-19 vaccines under its humanitarian initiative 'Vaccine Maitri'&nbsp;by December after having an excess number of doses in the country.

India will have a vaccine capacity of 28 crore doses this month, which includes 22 crore Serum Institute of India's Covishield and 6 crore doses of Bharat Biotech Biotech's Covaxin and production of 60 lakh Zydus Cadila's ZyCoV-D doses are also ready, said government sources.

India will have a vaccine capacity of 28 crore doses this month, which includes 22 crore Serum Institute of India's Covishield and 6 crore doses of Bharat Biotech Biotech's Covaxin and production of 60 lakh Zydus Cadila's ZyCoV-D doses are also ready, said government sources. India will have a capacity of more than 30 crores by next year per month, which includes Covishield, Covaxin, ZyCoV-D and Biological E, sources told ANI. Also Read | US Development Finance Corporation chief to visit India to boost vaccine manufacturing According to the sources, the production of 60 lakh doses of Zydus Cadila's ZyCoV-D are already ready with the company and Biological E will be submitting the data till November end of phase -3 trials. The Biological E is the third Indian company to make COVID-19 vaccines. The company has also started stockpile doses. Biological E will be providing 30 crore doses and another company that is expected to provide doses is Gennova which is the fourth Indian company doing trials of mRNA vaccines. India is expected to get Gennova's mRNA vaccine doses by February. Earlier, on September 2, NITI Aayog Member (Health) VK Paul had said that the Hyderabad-based pharmaceutical company, Biological E, is expected to launch its vaccine against coronavirus in October this year. Also Read | US to allow fully vaccinated travellers from November 8: White House Paul had told ANI that Phase 3 of Biological E's trial is underway. "Stockpile is being produced. We should wait for the results. We hope it'll be in the next month or two. They've made a broad commitment that they'll supply a significant amount by year-end. "India procured more than 26 crore doses in the month of September also. Centre plans to achieve 100 crore doses in next week. Earlier, it was expected to reach the target between October 10 to October 12. The delay and decline in Covid vaccination are due to the festival season and hesitation in the second dose. India may accelerate the export of COVID-19 vaccines under its humanitarian initiative 'Vaccine Maitri' by December after having an excess number of doses in the country.

India to procure over 30 crore COVID-19 vaccine doses per month by January: Sources

Bhartiya Kisan Union (BKU) leader Rakesh Tikait on Saturday said the alleged killing of a man near the Singhu border was "unfortunate", but it will not affect the farmers' protest against the Centre's three farm laws.

"Whatever happened is wrong and unfortunate. Someone killed him and later the police arrested the killer. The matter is subject to investigation. It will not affect our protest," said Tikait.

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On Friday, a corpse of a man, with hands and legs chopped off, was found hanging on a police barricade at the farmers' protest site near the Singhu border, said Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Hansraj.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/plea-seeks-early-hearing-of-pil-in-indias-supreme-court-on-removing-protesting-farmers-from-delhi-borders-421212">Plea seeks early hearing of PIL in India's Supreme Court on removing protesting farmers from Delhi borders</a>

"An FIR has been registered in the case," said the DSP.

The man has been identified as Lakhbir Singh resident of village Cheema Khurd in Tarn Taran district of Punjab. The deceased, about 35-36 years old, who used to work as a labourer, has no criminal record or affiliation with any political party, informed the police.

Bhartiya Kisan Union (BKU) leader Rakesh Tikait on Saturday said the alleged killing of a man near the Singhu border was "unfortunate", but it will not affect the farmers' protest against the Centre's three farm laws.

Bhartiya Kisan Union (BKU) leader Rakesh Tikait on Saturday said the alleged killing of a man near the Singhu border was "unfortunate", but it will not affect the farmers' protest against the Centre's three farm laws. "Whatever happened is wrong and unfortunate. Someone killed him and later the police arrested the killer. The matter is subject to investigation. It will not affect our protest," said Tikait. Also Read | India’s power crisis eases on account of increased coal supply, onset of winter On Friday, a corpse of a man, with hands and legs chopped off, was found hanging on a police barricade at the farmers' protest site near the Singhu border, said Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Hansraj. Also read | Plea seeks early hearing of PIL in India's Supreme Court on removing protesting farmers from Delhi borders "An FIR has been registered in the case," said the DSP. The man has been identified as Lakhbir Singh resident of village Cheema Khurd in Tarn Taran district of Punjab. The deceased, about 35-36 years old, who used to work as a labourer, has no criminal record or affiliation with any political party, informed the police.

Singhu border killing 'unfortunate', would not affect protest, says India's farmer leader Rakesh Tikait

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