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The cumulative COVID-19 vaccine doses administered in the country crossed 960 million with more than 3.2 million jabs were administered on Wednesday, the health ministry said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-covaxin-gets-emergency-use-nod-for-children-aged-2-18-years-420111">Also Read:&nbsp;COVID-19: Covaxin gets emergency use nod for children aged 2-18 years</a>

This is according to the 7 pm provisional report. The daily vaccination tally is expected to increase with the compilation of the final reports for the day by late night, the ministry said.

Cumulatively, 38,99,42,616 first doses have been administered to individuals in the 18-44 age group across states and union territories and 10,69,40,919 second doses have been given in the same age group since the start of phase-3 of the vaccination drive, according to health ministry data.

<a href="Also Read: Unvaccinated Delhi govt employees will not be allowed to attend office from October 16">Also Read:&nbsp;Unvaccinated Delhi govt employees will not be allowed to attend office from October 16</a>

The ministry further said that cumulatively 69,09,35,778 first doses have been administered while 27,68,72,767 second doses have been administered.

On Wednesday, 32,36,997 doses were administered as the vaccination coverage reached 96,78,08,545, the ministry said.

The vaccination exercise as a tool to protect the most vulnerable population groups in the country from COVID-19 continues to be regularly reviewed and monitored at the highest level, the ministry underlined.

The cumulative COVID-19 vaccine doses administered in the country crossed 960 million with more than 3.2 million jabs were administered on Wednesday, the health ministry said.

The cumulative COVID-19 vaccine doses administered in the country crossed 960 million with more than 3.2 million jabs were administered on Wednesday, the health ministry said. Also Read: COVID-19: Covaxin gets emergency use nod for children aged 2-18 years This is according to the 7 pm provisional report. The daily vaccination tally is expected to increase with the compilation of the final reports for the day by late night, the ministry said. Cumulatively, 38,99,42,616 first doses have been administered to individuals in the 18-44 age group across states and union territories and 10,69,40,919 second doses have been given in the same age group since the start of phase-3 of the vaccination drive, according to health ministry data. Also Read: Unvaccinated Delhi govt employees will not be allowed to attend office from October 16 The ministry further said that cumulatively 69,09,35,778 first doses have been administered while 27,68,72,767 second doses have been administered. On Wednesday, 32,36,997 doses were administered as the vaccination coverage reached 96,78,08,545, the ministry said. The vaccination exercise as a tool to protect the most vulnerable population groups in the country from COVID-19 continues to be regularly reviewed and monitored at the highest level, the ministry underlined.

Over 960 million COVID-19 vaccines administered in India, says health ministry

In a stinging reaction to China's official spokesperson's comments about Arunachal Pradesh, India declared on Wednesday that Arunachal Pradesh is an important and inalienable part of India.&nbsp;

Indian leaders visit Arunachal Pradesh in the way they visit any other part of India, said the Ministry of External Affairs in response to China’s objection to Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu’s visit to the Himalayan state. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chinese-air-force-still-deployed-at-three-airbases-facing-ladakh-air-chief-marshal-v-r-chaudhari-418589">Also Read:&nbsp;Chinese Air Force still deployed at three airbases facing Ladakh: Air Chief Marshal V R Chaudhari</a>

"We have noted the comments made today by the Chinese official spokesperson. We reject such comments. Arunachal Pradesh is an integral and inalienable part of India. Indian leaders routinely travel to the state of Arunachal Pradesh as they do to any other state of India. Objecting to the visit of Indian leaders to a state of India does not stand to reason and understanding of the Indian people, " said MEA in a statement.

Watch:&nbsp;Tensions at the India-China border

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/tensions-at-the-india-china-border-continue-to-grow-418813/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"Further, as we have mentioned earlier, the current situation along the LAC in the Western Sector of the India-China border areas has been caused by unilateral attempts of Chinese side to alter the status quo in violation of the bilateral agreements. Therefore, we expect the Chinese side to work towards early resolution of the remaining issues along the LAC in Eastern Ladakh while fully abiding by bilateral agreements and protocols rather than trying to link unrelated issues." the Indian Foreign Ministry&nbsp;added. 
 
Earlier, In the midst of ongoing tensions between India and China in Ladakh, Beijing stated&nbsp;that Vice President Venkaiah Naidu's travel to Arunachal Pradesh was "firmly opposed."

It urged New Delhi to "refrain from adopting steps that might complicate and deepen the border problem."

Vice-President Naidu was in Arunachal over the weekend as part of a visit in the Northeast. 
 
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The&nbsp;heated&nbsp;exchange&nbsp;between&nbsp;the&nbsp;two&nbsp;countries&nbsp;reflected&nbsp;the&nbsp;tensions&nbsp;created&nbsp;by&nbsp;the&nbsp;more&nbsp;than&nbsp;a&nbsp;year-and-a-half-long&nbsp;impasse&nbsp;in&nbsp;eastern&nbsp;Ladakh.

China's&nbsp;declaration&nbsp;came&nbsp;just&nbsp;days&nbsp;after&nbsp;the&nbsp;most&nbsp;recent&nbsp;round&nbsp;of&nbsp;military&nbsp;discussions&nbsp;came&nbsp;to&nbsp;a&nbsp;halt.&nbsp;

China claims up to 90,000 square kilometres in Arunachal in the eastern sector, while India claims 38,000 square kilometres in Aksai Chin in the western sector.

While recent tensions in the western sector have been centred on Ladakh, both sides have lately clashed in Uttarakhand, the middle sector, and last week in Tawang in Arunachal.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

In a stinging reaction to China's official spokesperson's comments about Arunachal Pradesh, India declared on Wednesday that Arunachal Pradesh is an important and inalienable part of India.

In a stinging reaction to China's official spokesperson's comments about Arunachal Pradesh, India declared on Wednesday that Arunachal Pradesh is an important and inalienable part of India. Indian leaders visit Arunachal Pradesh in the way they visit any other part of India, said the Ministry of External Affairs in response to China’s objection to Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu’s visit to the Himalayan state. Also Read: Chinese Air Force still deployed at three airbases facing Ladakh: Air Chief Marshal V R Chaudhari "We have noted the comments made today by the Chinese official spokesperson. We reject such comments. Arunachal Pradesh is an integral and inalienable part of India. Indian leaders routinely travel to the state of Arunachal Pradesh as they do to any other state of India. Objecting to the visit of Indian leaders to a state of India does not stand to reason and understanding of the Indian people, " said MEA in a statement. Watch: Tensions at the India-China border "Further, as we have mentioned earlier, the current situation along the LAC in the Western Sector of the India-China border areas has been caused by unilateral attempts of Chinese side to alter the status quo in violation of the bilateral agreements. Therefore, we expect the Chinese side to work towards early resolution of the remaining issues along the LAC in Eastern Ladakh while fully abiding by bilateral agreements and protocols rather than trying to link unrelated issues." the Indian Foreign Ministry added. Earlier, In the midst of ongoing tensions between India and China in Ladakh, Beijing stated that Vice President Venkaiah Naidu's travel to Arunachal Pradesh was "firmly opposed." It urged New Delhi to "refrain from adopting steps that might complicate and deepen the border problem." Vice-President Naidu was in Arunachal over the weekend as part of a visit in the Northeast. Also Read: China-made electric vehicles should not be sold in India: Modi govt to Elon Musk The heated exchange between the two countries reflected the tensions created by the more than a year-and-a-half-long impasse in eastern Ladakh. China's declaration came just days after the most recent round of military discussions came to a halt. China claims up to 90,000 square kilometres in Arunachal in the eastern sector, while India claims 38,000 square kilometres in Aksai Chin in the western sector. While recent tensions in the western sector have been centred on Ladakh, both sides have lately clashed in Uttarakhand, the middle sector, and last week in Tawang in Arunachal. (With inputs from agencies)

India-China conflict | Arunachal Pradesh integral and inalienable part of India: MEA rebuffs China

There is a new challenge for&nbsp;security&nbsp;forces in Kashmir valley.&nbsp;The presence of "part time or hybrid terrorists" in the valley is posing a big threat.

"Part time or hybrid terrorists"&nbsp;are not listed with the security forces as ultras but are people who are radicalised enough to carry terror attacks and then slip back into routine life.&nbsp;

In the last two weeks, seven civilians were killed and most of them were shot by pistol-borne youth who are not listed with the security forces.&nbsp;

"Hybrid terrorists or part time terrorists are those who are not listed with us but are in touch with militants, they are locally trained and after taking out one or two attacks, they slip back into normal life. 97 pistols have been recovered so far this year. This shows Pakistan has a new agenda that maximum number of pistols and hand grenades be pumped. The main reason is to create an atmosphere of fear," said Vijay Kumar, IG Kashmir.&nbsp;

Most of the killings that have taken place this year in the Kashmir valley were done using pistols. Many of these attacks were carried out by these "part time or hybrid terrorists".&nbsp;

Police are now trying to break the chain of these attacks. More than 500 people have been detained by the Jammu Kashmir Police in the last few days after the rise of civilian killings.&nbsp;

"There is a new modus operandi of terrorists to kill innocent civilians using pistols. All the policemen who have been killed this year were all without weapons at the time of killing, and most of the attacks were carried out by pistols. It's very easy to carry and attack with a pistol. Pakistan has chosen a new modus operandi to let them use pistols," Kumar added.

The security forces are now trying to formulate a new strategy to break through the new modus operandi of the terror groups.&nbsp;

There is a new challenge for security forces in Kashmir valley. The presence of "part time or hybrid terrorists" in the valley is posing a big threat. "Part time or hybrid terrorists" are not listed with the security forces as ultras but are people who are radicalised enough to carry terror attacks and then slip back into routine life.

There is a new challenge for security forces in Kashmir valley. The presence of "part time or hybrid terrorists" in the valley is posing a big threat. "Part time or hybrid terrorists" are not listed with the security forces as ultras but are people who are radicalised enough to carry terror attacks and then slip back into routine life. In the last two weeks, seven civilians were killed and most of them were shot by pistol-borne youth who are not listed with the security forces. "Hybrid terrorists or part time terrorists are those who are not listed with us but are in touch with militants, they are locally trained and after taking out one or two attacks, they slip back into normal life. 97 pistols have been recovered so far this year. This shows Pakistan has a new agenda that maximum number of pistols and hand grenades be pumped. The main reason is to create an atmosphere of fear," said Vijay Kumar, IG Kashmir. Most of the killings that have taken place this year in the Kashmir valley were done using pistols. Many of these attacks were carried out by these "part time or hybrid terrorists". Police are now trying to break the chain of these attacks. More than 500 people have been detained by the Jammu Kashmir Police in the last few days after the rise of civilian killings. "There is a new modus operandi of terrorists to kill innocent civilians using pistols. All the policemen who have been killed this year were all without weapons at the time of killing, and most of the attacks were carried out by pistols. It's very easy to carry and attack with a pistol. Pakistan has chosen a new modus operandi to let them use pistols," Kumar added. The security forces are now trying to formulate a new strategy to break through the new modus operandi of the terror groups.

'Hybrid or part time terrorists': A new challenge for security forces

The Indian envoy to the United States Taranjit Singh Sandhu in an interaction with Wion's Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal said that the "character and content" of Indo US relationship is very substantial. He added that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Joe Biden's "chemistry was very much visible" during the former's Washington visit.

Envoy Sandhu said that PM Modi's US visit in September was "landmark visit in terms of symbolism, atmospherics, substance". Key focus during the bilateral was on Covid, trade, Afghanistan, defense.

In-person meet between Biden and Modi was first such meeting after the new administration took charge in Washington earlier this year.

Sandhu pointed out the increased engagements between the 2 sides including the visit of US Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman, United States' Chief of Naval Operations Admiral Michael M Gilday India visit, and Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman's US visit.&nbsp;

He said, "no area of human endeavor that is untouched by this important partnership".&nbsp;

Both sides will soon be part annual 2+2 foreign and defense ministers meet in US towards the end of the year.&nbsp; 
Sandhu also slammed Pakistan, saying, "events in Afghanistan have only exposed them even more".&nbsp;

Pakistan's support to cross border terror has been key part of India, US conversations.

Wion: How do u describe the visit of PM. In terms of outcome?

Taranjit Singh Sandhu: Let's start off with PM's visit, It was a very important landmark visit in terms of symbolism, atmospherics, substance. You are aware of the background of the visit, COVID-19. You yourself were here.&nbsp;

There were regional and global developments, and despite all this the summit took place and showed commitment of the leadership.&nbsp;

In this, I may say very clearly 7 elements of the visit--It was the first in-person bilateral summit with President Biden, first in-person meeting with Vice President Harris, first in-person Quad leaders' summit, bilateralS with Japan and Australia, focus meeting with top CEOs, return of Indian antiquities and finally the address to the United Nations (UN).&nbsp;

Let me come to the bilateral, there were very clear 10 takeaways, first Of course, in COVID-19 health care which was very much in focus, then on climate -- We heard the concept of trusteeship with PM underlining climate finance, transfer of technology. 3rd issue was cyber in which promoting critical infrastructure, building capacities was discussed. Then there was the tech talk in which (there was discussion about) expanding partnership in new domains including emerging technologies, health security, space, semi-conductors, AI, 5G, 6G, future generation telecom technology, blockchain etc.&nbsp;

Then there was trade, mechanism like trade policy forum, commercial dialogue, high technology working group, economic and financing dialogue are coming into play and they will enhance trade and economic cooperation and not to forget, that movement of skilled professionals, students, investors. This was priority in the enhanced bilateral economic and technology partnership. 6th was defense and 7th was terrorism in which cross border terrorism, Mumbai attacks, use of terrorist proxies, working together to deny logical financial military support to terrorism, all this was covered.&nbsp;

8th was Afghanistan, 9th was international organisations in which India's UNSC and NSG membership, these all came in.&nbsp;

Finally the antiquities. In that, I want to underline, that in the joint statement and President committed to strengthening effort to combat the theft, trafficking of cultural objects. Return took place under that. So what I said in the beginning, in terms of symbolism, atmospherics, substance, it was a very significant visit.&nbsp;

Wion: In terms of PM Modi-President Biden meet, how does it give an impetus to India-US ties?

Taranjit Singh Sandhu: Sidhant, It was a very important meeting both in terms of signalling, and messaging. Substance, I have mentioned. The 10 takeaways.&nbsp;

It was a very warm and positive meeting, I just want bring to your attention, skeptics for long have been saying that once Biden administration comes there will be a change of tone, but I think the chemistry was very much to be seen by all, and I must add here that in both the meetings--bilateral and Quad, the chemistry was very visible, not only to all of us but also other leaders who were there. In this I would say, it is that trust and partnership is the key. Both sides have the basic trust, and if you permit me to say, the bipartisan character of the relationship is again being shown here. I have been part of the relationship for last 20 years and I have been underlining this, I have seen this grow. This has been very reflective, this interaction, this chemistry, and mind you, they have earlier interacted in 2014, 2016 but this clearly showed both are very committed to taking the relationship ahead. As PM Modi himself said, that this is a decade of transformative relation and he underlined 5 Ts--Tradition, Technology, Trade, Trusteeship and Talent.&nbsp;

Challenges have been international in nature; it is more imperative to work together. For example, COVID-19 surge. You have seen India and US, they have helped each other and this has been recognized by President Biden himself. Clearly reflected that this chemistry and this meeting will play significant role in giving indication to what is to come in future.&nbsp;

Wion: What more is expected in the relationship. We have seen visit of US official to India, and Indian officials to US. More such visits on the anvil?

Taranjit Singh Sandhu: It is not wrong to say, no area of human endeavor that is untouched by this important partnership. In this, healthcare, IT, emerging technologies, energy, environment, education, infrastructure, knowledge partnership, supply chain etc are involved.&nbsp;

We have seen in joint statement; all of these have been covered. Take a look at first 6 months itself, after Biden administration took over, there have been in-person meets, the bilateral, Quad. There have been 4 virtual summits-- Quad, climate, COVID, G20 and there were 4 telephonic calls between PM and president and vice president.&nbsp;

Several other engagements, at EAM level, NSA, various cabinet ministers have been talking with their counterpart.&nbsp;

In fact, the commerce minister had interaction with his counterpart in Italy, and as you pointed out the finance minister is very much in US and has had several meetings in Boston and will be coming later this evening to Washington DC. From US side, number of visits-- Secretary of State Blinken has visited,(Defence) Secy Austin and Secy Kerry have visited. Deputy NSA has visited and one of the seniormost and most experienced diplomats, Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman just recently visited India.&nbsp;

Just between the time PM has left, we had a very substantial finance minister-level interaction coming in. Not only because of World Bank meetings, but also because of meetings at bilateral level. She is interacting with number of key investment and business counterparts here and there will be roundtable with number of investors.&nbsp;

We had the visit of CDS and the defense secretary, the defense policy group has met and from US to India, health dialogue has taken place. Industrial security agreement has taken place, then deputy USTR has visited. As you asked what is scheduled, the economic and financial partnership dialogue will happen this week. The chief of naval staff of US is visiting India, then we have Malabar phase 2 exercises, then we have the Yudh Abhyas, the Vajra Prahar, the trade policy forum expected to happen. The 2+2 ministerial dialogue in December, and finally the commercial dialogue, the CEO forum, they all plan in coming months. So, lot of action in coming days. ​

Wion: Wendy Sherman in her remarks said, no interest in returning to days of a hyphenated India and Pak visit is for a narrow and specific purpose. What do u make of the comments?

Taranjit Singh Sandhu: I think the remark speak of themselves; I think it is very important to take them as they have been stated.&nbsp;

This is also reflected in number of similar statements from across the board from the US--from the administration, the US Congress, think tanks, media and public at large. It is very significant to understand the length and depth of this relationship between US and India. Everyone here knows, and have been speaking about the character of Pakistan. The events in Afghanistan have only exposed them even more.&nbsp;

On the other hand, please look at the character and content of relationship with India, which is very different. There is substantial cooperation, much deeper and wider, not only in counter-terrorism, take a look at joint statement on counter-terrorism. But as I have indicated to u, the joint statement covered Mumbai, cross-border terrorism, terrorist proxies, denying logistical financial military support but as I have said, look at the depth of our relationship. Health care, IT, digital, emerging technologies, energy, education and knowledge partnership. That speaks for themselves.&nbsp;

Wion: In terms of Quad, where do u see the grouping? Will India host the Quad summit?

Taranjit Singh Sandhu: See Sidhant, as I indicated earlier that they are global challenges and they are therefore requirement of like-minded partners coming together.&nbsp;

I think, Quad is a reflection of that. There have been intensifying engagements. In 2019, the foreign ministers meet, first virtual summit took place in March 2021, and that time President Biden had clearly indicated that he would like to hold first in-person summit by end of this year. You saw, by September the first in-person summit took place despite all the challenges, particularly of the COVID. You were here and have seen the situation.&nbsp;

Here, as far as Quad is concerned, the first virtual summit laid out 3 practical areas of cooperation--those are very very clear and grounded areas.&nbsp;

First was COVID-19 vaccines, in which 1 billion vaccines by 2022, and mind you these will be produced in India.&nbsp; 
It is creating capacity in India and that is very much on board. In climate change and critical technology, this summit reviewed all this and took stock of the situation and further deepen it. In this summit, leaders have expanded the scope to include new areas and important amongst them is space which includes exchange of satellite data, tackling climate change, sustainable uses of ocean, marine resources, and responding to challenges in shared domains.&nbsp;

In cyber security, workforce talent and secure and trustworthy digital infrastructure itself. There will be effort by all 4 countries to map out infrastructure needs, technical assistance and promoting sustainable infrastructure development and not to forget-- for the first-time education has been part of the Quad initiative. There is Quad fellowship in Quad areas, and I don't need to remind you, among the 200,000 Indian students in US 2/3 are in STEM areas. These all areas, are practical, people-oriented and underpinned by mutual respect, cooperation for global common good. As PM Modi has himself highlighted, that this is a force for global good. India is going to play a significant role in all these areas. About the annual meeting, the Quad joint statement itself mentions, they are committed and they will be meeting regularly.&nbsp;

The Indian envoy to the United States Taranjit Singh Sandhu in an interaction with Wion's Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal said that the "character and content" of Indo US relationship is very substantial.

The Indian envoy to the United States Taranjit Singh Sandhu in an interaction with Wion's Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal said that the "character and content" of Indo US relationship is very substantial. He added that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Joe Biden's "chemistry was very much visible" during the former's Washington visit. Envoy Sandhu said that PM Modi's US visit in September was "landmark visit in terms of symbolism, atmospherics, substance". Key focus during the bilateral was on Covid, trade, Afghanistan, defense. In-person meet between Biden and Modi was first such meeting after the new administration took charge in Washington earlier this year. Sandhu pointed out the increased engagements between the 2 sides including the visit of US Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman, United States' Chief of Naval Operations Admiral Michael M Gilday India visit, and Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman's US visit. He said, "no area of human endeavor that is untouched by this important partnership". Both sides will soon be part annual 2+2 foreign and defense ministers meet in US towards the end of the year. Sandhu also slammed Pakistan, saying, "events in Afghanistan have only exposed them even more". Pakistan's support to cross border terror has been key part of India, US conversations. Wion: How do u describe the visit of PM. In terms of outcome? Taranjit Singh Sandhu: Let's start off with PM's visit, It was a very important landmark visit in terms of symbolism, atmospherics, substance. You are aware of the background of the visit, COVID-19. You yourself were here. There were regional and global developments, and despite all this the summit took place and showed commitment of the leadership. In this, I may say very clearly 7 elements of the visit--It was the first in-person bilateral summit with President Biden, first in-person meeting with Vice President Harris, first in-person Quad leaders' summit, bilateralS with Japan and Australia, focus meeting with top CEOs, return of Indian antiquities and finally the address to the United Nations (UN). Let me come to the bilateral, there were very clear 10 takeaways, first Of course, in COVID-19 health care which was very much in focus, then on climate -- We heard the concept of trusteeship with PM underlining climate finance, transfer of technology. 3rd issue was cyber in which promoting critical infrastructure, building capacities was discussed. Then there was the tech talk in which (there was discussion about) expanding partnership in new domains including emerging technologies, health security, space, semi-conductors, AI, 5G, 6G, future generation telecom technology, blockchain etc. Then there was trade, mechanism like trade policy forum, commercial dialogue, high technology working group, economic and financing dialogue are coming into play and they will enhance trade and economic cooperation and not to forget, that movement of skilled professionals, students, investors. This was priority in the enhanced bilateral economic and technology partnership. 6th was defense and 7th was terrorism in which cross border terrorism, Mumbai attacks, use of terrorist proxies, working together to deny logical financial military support to terrorism, all this was covered. 8th was Afghanistan, 9th was international organisations in which India's UNSC and NSG membership, these all came in. Finally the antiquities. In that, I want to underline, that in the joint statement and President committed to strengthening effort to combat the theft, trafficking of cultural objects. Return took place under that. So what I said in the beginning, in terms of symbolism, atmospherics, substance, it was a very significant visit. Wion: In terms of PM Modi-President Biden meet, how does it give an impetus to India-US ties? Taranjit Singh Sandhu: Sidhant, It was a very important meeting both in terms of signalling, and messaging. Substance, I have mentioned. The 10 takeaways. It was a very warm and positive meeting, I just want bring to your attention, skeptics for long have been saying that once Biden administration comes there will be a change of tone, but I think the chemistry was very much to be seen by all, and I must add here that in both the meetings--bilateral and Quad, the chemistry was very visible, not only to all of us but also other leaders who were there. In this I would say, it is that trust and partnership is the key. Both sides have the basic trust, and if you permit me to say, the bipartisan character of the relationship is again being shown here. I have been part of the relationship for last 20 years and I have been underlining this, I have seen this grow. This has been very reflective, this interaction, this chemistry, and mind you, they have earlier interacted in 2014, 2016 but this clearly showed both are very committed to taking the relationship ahead. As PM Modi himself said, that this is a decade of transformative relation and he underlined 5 Ts--Tradition, Technology, Trade, Trusteeship and Talent. Challenges have been international in nature; it is more imperative to work together. For example, COVID-19 surge. You have seen India and US, they have helped each other and this has been recognized by President Biden himself. Clearly reflected that this chemistry and this meeting will play significant role in giving indication to what is to come in future. Wion: What more is expected in the relationship. We have seen visit of US official to India, and Indian officials to US. More such visits on the anvil? Taranjit Singh Sandhu: It is not wrong to say, no area of human endeavor that is untouched by this important partnership. In this, healthcare, IT, emerging technologies, energy, environment, education, infrastructure, knowledge partnership, supply chain etc are involved. We have seen in joint statement; all of these have been covered. Take a look at first 6 months itself, after Biden administration took over, there have been in-person meets, the bilateral, Quad. There have been 4 virtual summits-- Quad, climate, COVID, G20 and there were 4 telephonic calls between PM and president and vice president. Several other engagements, at EAM level, NSA, various cabinet ministers have been talking with their counterpart. In fact, the commerce minister had interaction with his counterpart in Italy, and as you pointed out the finance minister is very much in US and has had several meetings in Boston and will be coming later this evening to Washington DC. From US side, number of visits-- Secretary of State Blinken has visited,(Defence) Secy Austin and Secy Kerry have visited. Deputy NSA has visited and one of the seniormost and most experienced diplomats, Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman just recently visited India. Just between the time PM has left, we had a very substantial finance minister-level interaction coming in. Not only because of World Bank meetings, but also because of meetings at bilateral level. She is interacting with number of key investment and business counterparts here and there will be roundtable with number of investors. We had the visit of CDS and the defense secretary, the defense policy group has met and from US to India, health dialogue has taken place. Industrial security agreement has taken place, then deputy USTR has visited. As you asked what is scheduled, the economic and financial partnership dialogue will happen this week. The chief of naval staff of US is visiting India, then we have Malabar phase 2 exercises, then we have the Yudh Abhyas, the Vajra Prahar, the trade policy forum expected to happen. The 2+2 ministerial dialogue in December, and finally the commercial dialogue, the CEO forum, they all plan in coming months. So, lot of action in coming days. Wion: Wendy Sherman in her remarks said, no interest in returning to days of a hyphenated India and Pak visit is for a narrow and specific purpose. What do u make of the comments? Taranjit Singh Sandhu: I think the remark speak of themselves; I think it is very important to take them as they have been stated. This is also reflected in number of similar statements from across the board from the US--from the administration, the US Congress, think tanks, media and public at large. It is very significant to understand the length and depth of this relationship between US and India. Everyone here knows, and have been speaking about the character of Pakistan. The events in Afghanistan have only exposed them even more. On the other hand, please look at the character and content of relationship with India, which is very different. There is substantial cooperation, much deeper and wider, not only in counter-terrorism, take a look at joint statement on counter-terrorism. But as I have indicated to u, the joint statement covered Mumbai, cross-border terrorism, terrorist proxies, denying logistical financial military support but as I have said, look at the depth of our relationship. Health care, IT, digital, emerging technologies, energy, education and knowledge partnership. That speaks for themselves. Wion: In terms of Quad, where do u see the grouping? Will India host the Quad summit? Taranjit Singh Sandhu: See Sidhant, as I indicated earlier that they are global challenges and they are therefore requirement of like-minded partners coming together. I think, Quad is a reflection of that. There have been intensifying engagements. In 2019, the foreign ministers meet, first virtual summit took place in March 2021, and that time President Biden had clearly indicated that he would like to hold first in-person summit by end of this year. You saw, by September the first in-person summit took place despite all the challenges, particularly of the COVID. You were here and have seen the situation. Here, as far as Quad is concerned, the first virtual summit laid out 3 practical areas of cooperation--those are very very clear and grounded areas. First was COVID-19 vaccines, in which 1 billion vaccines by 2022, and mind you these will be produced in India. It is creating capacity in India and that is very much on board. In climate change and critical technology, this summit reviewed all this and took stock of the situation and further deepen it. In this summit, leaders have expanded the scope to include new areas and important amongst them is space which includes exchange of satellite data, tackling climate change, sustainable uses of ocean, marine resources, and responding to challenges in shared domains. In cyber security, workforce talent and secure and trustworthy digital infrastructure itself. There will be effort by all 4 countries to map out infrastructure needs, technical assistance and promoting sustainable infrastructure development and not to forget-- for the first-time education has been part of the Quad initiative. There is Quad fellowship in Quad areas, and I don't need to remind you, among the 200,000 Indian students in US 2/3 are in STEM areas. These all areas, are practical, people-oriented and underpinned by mutual respect, cooperation for global common good. As PM Modi has himself highlighted, that this is a force for global good. India is going to play a significant role in all these areas. About the annual meeting, the Quad joint statement itself mentions, they are committed and they will be meeting regularly.

Character and content of India-US relations substantial: Indian Envoy to US Taranjit Sandhu

India reported 15,823 fresh cases of COVID-19 and 226 fatalities in the last 24 hours, informed the Union Health Ministry on Wednesday.

Out of 15,823 new cases and 226 deaths reported in India, Kerala reported 7,823 cases and 106 deaths on Tuesday.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-maharashtra-cinemas-auditoriums-to-reopen-from-october-22-420094">COVID-19: Maharashtra cinemas, auditoriums to reopen from October 22</a>

Less than 50,000 daily new cases have been reported for 108 consecutive days now. According to the ministry, India's active load stands at 2,07,653, the lowest in over 7 months (214 days).

The active cases account for less than 1 per cent of the total cases. Currently, it is at 0.61 per cent, the lowest since March 2020.The total recoveries in the country mounted to 3,33,42,901 with 22,844 recoveries reported in the last 24 hours.

Consequently, the recovery rate is 98.06 per cent, the highest since March 2020.

The weekly positivity rate was recorded at 1.46 per cent, which is less than 3 per cent for the last 110 days. The daily positivity rate is 1.19 per cent, which has also remained below 3 per cent for the last 44 days.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-over-150-year-old-ramlila-will-not-take-place-this-year-419789">Delhi: Over 150-year-old Ramlila will not take place this year</a>

In the last 24 hours, 13,25,399 samples were tested to detect the presence of the COVID-19 virus. So far, 58,63,63,442 samples have been tested.

Meanwhile, in the ongoing nationwide COVID-19 vaccination drive, cumulative coverage exceeded 96.43 crores. A total of 50,63,845 vaccine doses were administered in the last 24 hours with which the cumulative vaccination coverage reached 96,43,79,212, as per provisional reports till 7 am today.

The ministry informed that more than 97.79 crore (97,79,37,495) vaccine doses have been provided to States and union territories (UTs) so far by the Centre, free of cost and through direct state procurement category. More than 8.43 crore (8,43,76,070) balance and unutilized COVID-19 vaccine doses are still available with the States and UTs to be administered.

"The new phase of universalization of COVID-19 vaccination commenced from 21st June 2021. In the new phase of the universalization of the COVID19 vaccination drive, the Union Government will procure and supply (free of cost) 75 per cent of the vaccines being produced by the vaccine manufacturers in the country to States and UTs," said the ministry.

India reported 15,823 fresh cases of COVID-19 and 226 fatalities in the last 24 hours, informed the Union Health Ministry on Wednesday. Out of 15,823 new cases and 226 deaths reported in India, Kerala reported 7,823 cases and 106 deaths on Tuesday.

India reported 15,823 fresh cases of COVID-19 and 226 fatalities in the last 24 hours, informed the Union Health Ministry on Wednesday. Out of 15,823 new cases and 226 deaths reported in India, Kerala reported 7,823 cases and 106 deaths on Tuesday. Also Read | COVID-19: Maharashtra cinemas, auditoriums to reopen from October 22 Less than 50,000 daily new cases have been reported for 108 consecutive days now. According to the ministry, India's active load stands at 2,07,653, the lowest in over 7 months (214 days). The active cases account for less than 1 per cent of the total cases. Currently, it is at 0.61 per cent, the lowest since March 2020.The total recoveries in the country mounted to 3,33,42,901 with 22,844 recoveries reported in the last 24 hours. Consequently, the recovery rate is 98.06 per cent, the highest since March 2020. The weekly positivity rate was recorded at 1.46 per cent, which is less than 3 per cent for the last 110 days. The daily positivity rate is 1.19 per cent, which has also remained below 3 per cent for the last 44 days. Also Read | Delhi: Over 150-year-old Ramlila will not take place this year In the last 24 hours, 13,25,399 samples were tested to detect the presence of the COVID-19 virus. So far, 58,63,63,442 samples have been tested. Meanwhile, in the ongoing nationwide COVID-19 vaccination drive, cumulative coverage exceeded 96.43 crores. A total of 50,63,845 vaccine doses were administered in the last 24 hours with which the cumulative vaccination coverage reached 96,43,79,212, as per provisional reports till 7 am today. The ministry informed that more than 97.79 crore (97,79,37,495) vaccine doses have been provided to States and union territories (UTs) so far by the Centre, free of cost and through direct state procurement category. More than 8.43 crore (8,43,76,070) balance and unutilized COVID-19 vaccine doses are still available with the States and UTs to be administered. "The new phase of universalization of COVID-19 vaccination commenced from 21st June 2021. In the new phase of the universalization of the COVID19 vaccination drive, the Union Government will procure and supply (free of cost) 75 per cent of the vaccines being produced by the vaccine manufacturers in the country to States and UTs," said the ministry.

India reports 15,823 fresh COVID-19 cases, 226 fatalities

Aged just 24, he was the family’s lone breadwinner while serving the Indian Army from the age of 19, he had managed to secure a loan(that is still being repaid) and recently built an own house for his mother and sister and also purchased a car for the family.&nbsp;

Despite the immense responsibility that he had to shoulder from a very young age, he had enthusiastically asked for a posting in Jammu and Kashmir(one of the most dangerous conflict zones in the world), to serve his motherland.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-seven-terrorists-killed-in-five-operations-in-24-hours-420120">Also Read |&nbsp;Jammu and Kashmir: Seven terrorists killed in five operations in 24 hours</a>

“Chasing my dreamz”, accompanied by emoticons of a uniformed soldier, a home, a bike, a car and family is how he described himself on his WhatsApp. That’s H.Vaisakh for you, the young braveheart from Kollam, Kerala who made the supreme sacrifice for India while fighting terrorists in J&amp;K.&nbsp;

According to his younger cousin Abhijith, it was barely four months ago that Vaisakh’s mother and sister had moved into their new home which Vaisakh had built at the Odanavattom village, their native place.&nbsp;

The new residence signfied a ray of hope for the family which had been plagued by financial issues. During Vysakh’s childhood the family had to stay in a rented house for several years after selling their own house and land to meet their financial liabilities. It was after Vysakh started serving in Indian Army that he saved every bit of his income to take care of his tightly-knit family which meant the world to him.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-two-teachers-shot-dead-by-terrorists-two-days-after-three-others-were-gunned-down-418873">Also Read |&nbsp;J&amp;K: Two teachers shot dead by terrorists, two days after three others were gunned down</a>

“It was about two months ago following the death of his maternal grandmother that he stepped into his own home(which he so dearly planned and constructed). Back then, he couldn’t make it on time for the funeral but he came on leave a couple of days later and performed the rituals. That’s when he told us about his decision to voluntarily ask for posting in Jammu and Kashmir. None from our family have served the Armed forces but from a very young age Annan(elder brother) was extremely determined on joining the Army," Abhijith recalled.

Naushad, the secretary of Quilon Mallu Soldiers (a registered non-profit trust working for Armed forces personnel and their families), recalls Vaisakh as a dynamic young man who always took active part in their events.&nbsp;

<img alt="Indian solider" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6f83f16d-ba4b-45ae-b07f-8388f0ef2121" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/j2.jpg" />

The trust is now making arrangements at the residence of the soldier to receive the mortal remains, perform crowd control work amid COVID-19 and help the family during their hour of inconsolable grief. The mortal remains of the soldier are expected to reach the native village by late Wednesday night or on Thursday, following which the public would be allowed to pay their respects at the nearby school where Vaisakh studied.&nbsp;

“An avid traveller and adventurer, Vysakh loved his Royal Enfield bullet and also had recently purchased a car for the family," his cousin added. Having grown up and played together, Abhijith cant believe that his elder brother who was always full of life, is no more.&nbsp;

Mohankumar, Vaisakh’s maternal uncle remembers him as an extremely affable, good-natured person, who was very hardworking and had the sole mission of giving a better life for his modest family. “Getting his younger sister(who recently competed her college education) happily married was among his top priorities, while his own needs and wants came last” &nbsp;

<img alt="Indian soldier" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0e19661c-efad-4287-a505-d08bdf00cb3e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Kar2.jpg" />

Five army personnel, including a Junior Commissioned Officer (JCO) were killed in an encounter with terrorists at the Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir on Monday.&nbsp;

The soldiers lost their lives in firing by terrorists in a village close to Dera Ki Gali in Surankote area of the border district of Poonch after the Army and police launched a joint operation based on intelligence inputs about the presence of terrorists who had infiltrated from Pakistan after crossing the Line of Control(LoC).&nbsp;

During the operation, terrorists brought down a heavy volume of fire on Army troops which led to five Indian Army soldiers being killed in action.&nbsp;

Naib Subedar (JCO) Jaswinder Singh, a recipient of Sena Medal, Naik Mandeep Singh, Gajjan Singh, Saraj Singh and H.Vaisakh made the supreme sacrifice for the motherland.&nbsp;

Aged just 24, he was the family’s lone breadwinner while serving the Indian Army from the age of 19, he had managed to secure a loan(that is still being repaid) and recently built an own house for his mother and sister and also purchased a car for the family.

Aged just 24, he was the family’s lone breadwinner while serving the Indian Army from the age of 19, he had managed to secure a loan(that is still being repaid) and recently built an own house for his mother and sister and also purchased a car for the family. Despite the immense responsibility that he had to shoulder from a very young age, he had enthusiastically asked for a posting in Jammu and Kashmir(one of the most dangerous conflict zones in the world), to serve his motherland. Also Read | Jammu and Kashmir: Seven terrorists killed in five operations in 24 hours “Chasing my dreamz”, accompanied by emoticons of a uniformed soldier, a home, a bike, a car and family is how he described himself on his WhatsApp. That’s H.Vaisakh for you, the young braveheart from Kollam, Kerala who made the supreme sacrifice for India while fighting terrorists in J&K. According to his younger cousin Abhijith, it was barely four months ago that Vaisakh’s mother and sister had moved into their new home which Vaisakh had built at the Odanavattom village, their native place. The new residence signfied a ray of hope for the family which had been plagued by financial issues. During Vysakh’s childhood the family had to stay in a rented house for several years after selling their own house and land to meet their financial liabilities. It was after Vysakh started serving in Indian Army that he saved every bit of his income to take care of his tightly-knit family which meant the world to him. Also Read | J&K: Two teachers shot dead by terrorists, two days after three others were gunned down “It was about two months ago following the death of his maternal grandmother that he stepped into his own home(which he so dearly planned and constructed). Back then, he couldn’t make it on time for the funeral but he came on leave a couple of days later and performed the rituals. That’s when he told us about his decision to voluntarily ask for posting in Jammu and Kashmir. None from our family have served the Armed forces but from a very young age Annan(elder brother) was extremely determined on joining the Army," Abhijith recalled. Naushad, the secretary of Quilon Mallu Soldiers (a registered non-profit trust working for Armed forces personnel and their families), recalls Vaisakh as a dynamic young man who always took active part in their events. The trust is now making arrangements at the residence of the soldier to receive the mortal remains, perform crowd control work amid COVID-19 and help the family during their hour of inconsolable grief. The mortal remains of the soldier are expected to reach the native village by late Wednesday night or on Thursday, following which the public would be allowed to pay their respects at the nearby school where Vaisakh studied. “An avid traveller and adventurer, Vysakh loved his Royal Enfield bullet and also had recently purchased a car for the family," his cousin added. Having grown up and played together, Abhijith cant believe that his elder brother who was always full of life, is no more. Mohankumar, Vaisakh’s maternal uncle remembers him as an extremely affable, good-natured person, who was very hardworking and had the sole mission of giving a better life for his modest family. “Getting his younger sister(who recently competed her college education) happily married was among his top priorities, while his own needs and wants came last” Five army personnel, including a Junior Commissioned Officer (JCO) were killed in an encounter with terrorists at the Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir on Monday. The soldiers lost their lives in firing by terrorists in a village close to Dera Ki Gali in Surankote area of the border district of Poonch after the Army and police launched a joint operation based on intelligence inputs about the presence of terrorists who had infiltrated from Pakistan after crossing the Line of Control(LoC). During the operation, terrorists brought down a heavy volume of fire on Army troops which led to five Indian Army soldiers being killed in action. Naib Subedar (JCO) Jaswinder Singh, a recipient of Sena Medal, Naik Mandeep Singh, Gajjan Singh, Saraj Singh and H.Vaisakh made the supreme sacrifice for the motherland.

24-yr old Indian Army braveheart H.Vaisakh enthusiastically asked for Kashmir posting, recall kin

Invesco trying to take over Zee Entertainment illegally has been exposed. Punit Goenka, MD and CEO of ZEEL has put forward the double standards of Invesco to the board. Goenka has given a presentation in a meeting of the Board of Directors held on October 12. He has disclosed the conversation with the representative of Invesco in February 2021 to the board. Goenka has also sent a letter to BSE and NSE in this matter.

Exposing the double standards of Invesco, Punit Goenka has clarified in his letter that Invesco representatives had offered him a merger with a strategic group. Arun Baloni from Invesco and Bhatosh Bajpai of OFI Global China Fund were also involved in this conversation. Both had offered to merge with a big "strategic group"&nbsp;of India in front of Punit Goenka. The valuation of "strategic group"&nbsp;was shown inflated.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/someone-in-invesco-might-be-indulged-in-insider-trading-dr-subhash-chandra-418734">Also Read|&nbsp;Someone in Invesco might be indulged in insider trading: Dr Subhash Chandra</a>

Punit Goenka said that the investors of ZEEL would have suffered a loss of Rs 10,000 crores due to the deal. Promoters would get only a 3.99 per cent&nbsp;share in the merged entity.

Punit Goenka would get an ESOP of 4 per cent&nbsp;in the merged entity. In the new entity also, a proposal was made to make Punit Goenka MD &amp; CEO. Goenka said that if the deal was done, the strategic group would have a majority stake in the new company that would be formed after the merger. It was also proposed by Invesco that Punit Goenka would be appointed as MD and CEO.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-and-its-laws-wont-let-invesco-illegally-take-over-zeel-dr-subhash-chandra-418719">Also Read|&nbsp;India and its laws won't let Invesco illegally take over ZEEL: Dr Subhash Chandra</a>

According to the board note, Invesco, while presenting the proposal, insisted that the operations and business of the newly merged entity will be headed by Punit Goenka. Invesco had believed that due to Goenka's expertise and professional ability, it would be paramount for him to remain on the post of MD and CEO.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/zeel-sony-mega-merger-is-invesco-a-puppet-of-chinese-interests-418588">Also Read|&nbsp;ZEEL-Sony mega-merger: Is Invesco a puppet of Chinese interests?</a>

As per the letter issued by ZEEL, Punit Goenka had also raised some governance issues in the deal (especially regarding the valuation of the Strategic Group). Invesco had also said that the deal could be completed with or without him. However, Invesco believed that Punit Goenka was the best suited to lead the post-merger company and that his absence would reduce the shareholder value. Invesco repeatedly reminded Goenka that if he refused to pursue the deal, he and his family would suffer.

Invesco trying to take over Zee Entertainment illegally has been exposed. Punit Goenka, MD and CEO of ZEEL has put forward the double standards of Invesco to the board.

Invesco trying to take over Zee Entertainment illegally has been exposed. Punit Goenka, MD and CEO of ZEEL has put forward the double standards of Invesco to the board. Goenka has given a presentation in a meeting of the Board of Directors held on October 12. He has disclosed the conversation with the representative of Invesco in February 2021 to the board. Goenka has also sent a letter to BSE and NSE in this matter. Exposing the double standards of Invesco, Punit Goenka has clarified in his letter that Invesco representatives had offered him a merger with a strategic group. Arun Baloni from Invesco and Bhatosh Bajpai of OFI Global China Fund were also involved in this conversation. Both had offered to merge with a big "strategic group" of India in front of Punit Goenka. The valuation of "strategic group" was shown inflated. Also Read| Someone in Invesco might be indulged in insider trading: Dr Subhash Chandra Punit Goenka said that the investors of ZEEL would have suffered a loss of Rs 10,000 crores due to the deal. Promoters would get only a 3.99 per cent share in the merged entity. Punit Goenka would get an ESOP of 4 per cent in the merged entity. In the new entity also, a proposal was made to make Punit Goenka MD & CEO. Goenka said that if the deal was done, the strategic group would have a majority stake in the new company that would be formed after the merger. It was also proposed by Invesco that Punit Goenka would be appointed as MD and CEO. Also Read| India and its laws won't let Invesco illegally take over ZEEL: Dr Subhash Chandra According to the board note, Invesco, while presenting the proposal, insisted that the operations and business of the newly merged entity will be headed by Punit Goenka. Invesco had believed that due to Goenka's expertise and professional ability, it would be paramount for him to remain on the post of MD and CEO. Also Read| ZEEL-Sony mega-merger: Is Invesco a puppet of Chinese interests? As per the letter issued by ZEEL, Punit Goenka had also raised some governance issues in the deal (especially regarding the valuation of the Strategic Group). Invesco had also said that the deal could be completed with or without him. However, Invesco believed that Punit Goenka was the best suited to lead the post-merger company and that his absence would reduce the shareholder value. Invesco repeatedly reminded Goenka that if he refused to pursue the deal, he and his family would suffer.

Punit Goenka exposes Invesco's double standards at board meeting

India is set to achieve 450 GW renewable energy installed capacity by 2030, the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy said on Monday.

Earlier this month, the MNRE in collaboration with the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) organised a series of events, from October 6 to 8, 2021 during the Climate and Biodiversity Week at Expo 2020 Dubai.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/soaring-energy-prices-climb-up-eus-political-agenda-418611">Soaring energy prices climb up EU's political agenda</a>

According to the official statement released by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, the events covered the themes of India's Renewable Energy Achievements and Ambitions, Emerging Areas and Opportunities for Renewable Energy in India, and also focussed events anchored by the Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI) and Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency (IREDA).

Addressing the event on Monday, Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy RK Singh said, "India is already ahead of what we pledged in our Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). Already 39 per cent of our installed capacity is from non-fossil based sources. By 2022 we will reach our target of 40 per cent."

"We are launching the Green Corridor Phase 2 and we are generally expanding transmission to put in place systems for renewable power evacuation from sites where irradiation is high, or wind speed is high," he said further.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/despite-the-green-energy-push-oil-will-be-worlds-no-1-energy-source-opec-416913">Despite the green energy push, Oil will be world's No 1 energy source: OPEC</a>

Speaking on the opportunities for green hydrogen in India, Singh said that his ministry will work out with bids for electrolysers and that mandates for green hydrogen consumption in refining, fertilizer, piped natural gas.

"India has embarked on an exciting journey and is treading where no one has ventured before, and SECI will continue to work towards meeting the ambition of 450 GW by 2030," the minister added.&nbsp;

India is set to achieve 450 GW renewable energy installed capacity by 2030, the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy said on Monday. Earlier this month, the MNRE in collaboration with the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) organised a series of events, from October 6 to 8, 2021 during the Climate and Biodiversity Week at Expo 2020 Dubai.

India is set to achieve 450 GW renewable energy installed capacity by 2030, the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy said on Monday. Earlier this month, the MNRE in collaboration with the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) organised a series of events, from October 6 to 8, 2021 during the Climate and Biodiversity Week at Expo 2020 Dubai. Also Read | Soaring energy prices climb up EU's political agenda According to the official statement released by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, the events covered the themes of India's Renewable Energy Achievements and Ambitions, Emerging Areas and Opportunities for Renewable Energy in India, and also focussed events anchored by the Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI) and Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency (IREDA). Addressing the event on Monday, Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy RK Singh said, "India is already ahead of what we pledged in our Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). Already 39 per cent of our installed capacity is from non-fossil based sources. By 2022 we will reach our target of 40 per cent." "We are launching the Green Corridor Phase 2 and we are generally expanding transmission to put in place systems for renewable power evacuation from sites where irradiation is high, or wind speed is high," he said further. Also Read | Despite the green energy push, Oil will be world's No 1 energy source: OPEC Speaking on the opportunities for green hydrogen in India, Singh said that his ministry will work out with bids for electrolysers and that mandates for green hydrogen consumption in refining, fertilizer, piped natural gas. "India has embarked on an exciting journey and is treading where no one has ventured before, and SECI will continue to work towards meeting the ambition of 450 GW by 2030," the minister added.

India set to achieve 450 GW renewable energy installed capacity by 2030: Centre

India is on the verge of a power catastrophe, with coal supplies in power plants at an all-time low and states warning of power outages.

Across India, states have issued frantic warnings that coal supplies to thermal power plants, which convert heat from coal to electricity, are dangerously low.

According to statistics from the Central Electricity Authority of India, over 80% of the country's coal-fired facilities are in the critical, or "supercritical," stage, which means their supplies may run out in less than five days.&nbsp; 
 
Watch | Gravitas: Should India Brace for Power Cuts?

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According to the Central Electricity Authority (CEA), 115 of India's 135 power plants are suffering an acute shortage of coal due to a rise in demand for the fuel.

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The CEA also mentions that power facilities around the country may run out of coal in the long run.

According to CEA's assessment, 115 power plants throughout the country are suffering an extreme shortage of coal, as the fuel supply is lower than typical, and 17 power plants don't even have enough coal to last a day.&nbsp; 
 
The electricity issue will almost certainly have an immediate impact on India's fledgling economic recovery, which is being led by industrial activity rather than services.&nbsp;

According to reports, India's Power Minister Raj Kumar Singh has warned that the energy supply crisis might last up to six months.

With the Christmas season in India beginning this month, when spending typically peaks, electricity demand might grow even more – a situation that could be worsened if worldwide demand for Indian goods rises significantly.

Coal India, for its part, has allegedly increased supply to compensate for some of the deficit.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

India is on the verge of a power catastrophe, with coal supplies in power plants at an all-time low and states warning of power outages. Across India, states have issued frantic warnings that coal supplies to thermal power plants, which convert heat from coal to electricity, are dangerously low.

India is on the verge of a power catastrophe, with coal supplies in power plants at an all-time low and states warning of power outages. Across India, states have issued frantic warnings that coal supplies to thermal power plants, which convert heat from coal to electricity, are dangerously low. According to statistics from the Central Electricity Authority of India, over 80% of the country's coal-fired facilities are in the critical, or "supercritical," stage, which means their supplies may run out in less than five days. Watch | Gravitas: Should India Brace for Power Cuts? According to the Central Electricity Authority (CEA), 115 of India's 135 power plants are suffering an acute shortage of coal due to a rise in demand for the fuel. Coal accounts for around 70% of India’s electricity generation. × The CEA also mentions that power facilities around the country may run out of coal in the long run. According to CEA's assessment, 115 power plants throughout the country are suffering an extreme shortage of coal, as the fuel supply is lower than typical, and 17 power plants don't even have enough coal to last a day. The electricity issue will almost certainly have an immediate impact on India's fledgling economic recovery, which is being led by industrial activity rather than services. According to reports, India's Power Minister Raj Kumar Singh has warned that the energy supply crisis might last up to six months. With the Christmas season in India beginning this month, when spending typically peaks, electricity demand might grow even more – a situation that could be worsened if worldwide demand for Indian goods rises significantly. Coal India, for its part, has allegedly increased supply to compensate for some of the deficit. (With inputs from agencies)

India's coal crisis: 115 out of 135 power plants face shortage

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday met his Mongolian counterpart Battsetseg Batmunkh and discussed "development partnership".

Jaishankar assured that India will always remain a strong spiritual neighbour.&nbsp;

"Delighted to meet my new Mongolian colleague @BattsetsegBatm2. Discussed our strong development partnership. India will always remain a strong spiritual neighbour," Jaishankar tweeted.

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Addressed the 6th meeting of CICA FMs. Made six important points: 
 
1. India's internationalism (Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam) drives our Vaccine Maitri. 
 
2. Covid response has brought out the limitations of current multilateralism. Case for reformed multilateralism is strong. <a href="https://t.co/VmdahK5jFk">pic.twitter.com/VmdahK5jFk</a>
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1447839685632401413?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 12, 2021</a></blockquote>
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On Monday, Jaishankar had arrived at Nur-Sultan and participated in Conference on Interaction and Confidence-Building Measures (CICA) Ministerial.

Jaishankar began his Kazakhstan visit with a bilateral meeting with Uzbek foreign minister Abdulaziz Kamilov.

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Spoke at the collective call of FMs on Kazakh President <a href="https://twitter.com/TokayevKZ?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TokayevKZ</a>. 
 
Appreciated Kazakhstan's initiative in consolidating the unique CICA forum. Underlined its relevance in addressing contemporary challenges, including terrorism, pandemics and protection of global commons. <a href="https://t.co/PPxiGZsflE">pic.twitter.com/PPxiGZsflE</a>
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1447832904843677696?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 12, 2021</a></blockquote>
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CICA was established in 1999 as a forum aimed at enhancing cooperation through elaborating multilateral approaches towards promoting peace, security and stability in Asia.

It currently has 27 member states and nine observer states and five observer organisations. India is a member of CICA since its inception in 1999 and has been actively participating in various activities conducted under the aegis of CICA.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday met his Mongolian counterpart Battsetseg Batmunkh and discussed "development partnership". Jaishankar assured that India will always remain a strong spiritual neighbour.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday met his Mongolian counterpart Battsetseg Batmunkh and discussed "development partnership". Jaishankar assured that India will always remain a strong spiritual neighbour. "Delighted to meet my new Mongolian colleague @BattsetsegBatm2. Discussed our strong development partnership. India will always remain a strong spiritual neighbour," Jaishankar tweeted. Addressed the 6th meeting of CICA FMs. Made six important points: 1. India's internationalism (Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam) drives our Vaccine Maitri. 2. Covid response has brought out the limitations of current multilateralism. Case for reformed multilateralism is strong. pic.twitter.com/VmdahK5jFk — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) October 12, 2021 × On Monday, Jaishankar had arrived at Nur-Sultan and participated in Conference on Interaction and Confidence-Building Measures (CICA) Ministerial. Jaishankar began his Kazakhstan visit with a bilateral meeting with Uzbek foreign minister Abdulaziz Kamilov. Spoke at the collective call of FMs on Kazakh President @TokayevKZ. Appreciated Kazakhstan's initiative in consolidating the unique CICA forum. Underlined its relevance in addressing contemporary challenges, including terrorism, pandemics and protection of global commons. pic.twitter.com/PPxiGZsflE — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) October 12, 2021 × CICA was established in 1999 as a forum aimed at enhancing cooperation through elaborating multilateral approaches towards promoting peace, security and stability in Asia. It currently has 27 member states and nine observer states and five observer organisations. India is a member of CICA since its inception in 1999 and has been actively participating in various activities conducted under the aegis of CICA.

India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar visits Kazakhstan, highlights Afghan situation

Afghanistan's embassy in India is under financial crunch as the funds from Kabul have been stopped to the mission in New Delhi after the&nbsp;Taliban regime took over the&nbsp;country.

"Afghanistan embassy in India is the second-largest consulate of the country in the world after Iran. The embassy hasn't received funds for operation for two months" a top source, who didn`t wish to be named told ANI.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/need-to-ensure-afghan-territory-does-not-become-source-of-terrorism-pm-modi-at-g20-summit-on-afghanistan-420207">Also Read |&nbsp;Need to ensure Afghan territory does not become source of terrorism: PM Modi at G20 summit</a>

"Apart from being one of the largest embassies, the mission also caters to 24 diplomats and that is why funds are essential," he further stressed.

"We have curtailed most of the expenses and are managing at the bare minimum services," he added.

The source highlighted that due to the deficiency of funds the embassy staff have been instructed to cut unnecessary expenditure.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/afghan-interpreter-who-helped-rescue-biden-in-2008-escapes-taliban-regime-420043">Also Read:&nbsp;Afghan interpreter who helped rescue Biden in 2008 escapes Taliban regime</a>

With no communications being established between Kabul and New Delhi, the official noted that "the situation of diplomatic decision making is in limbo."

The official added that this status quo ante is uncertain given the current circumstances.&nbsp;Taliban had taken complete charge of Afghanistan in August.

Afghanistan's embassy in India is under financial crunch as the funds from Kabul have been stopped to the mission in New Delhi after the Taliban regime took over the country.

Afghanistan's embassy in India is under financial crunch as the funds from Kabul have been stopped to the mission in New Delhi after the Taliban regime took over the country. "Afghanistan embassy in India is the second-largest consulate of the country in the world after Iran. The embassy hasn't received funds for operation for two months" a top source, who didn`t wish to be named told ANI. Also Read | Need to ensure Afghan territory does not become source of terrorism: PM Modi at G20 summit "Apart from being one of the largest embassies, the mission also caters to 24 diplomats and that is why funds are essential," he further stressed. "We have curtailed most of the expenses and are managing at the bare minimum services," he added. The source highlighted that due to the deficiency of funds the embassy staff have been instructed to cut unnecessary expenditure. Also Read: Afghan interpreter who helped rescue Biden in 2008 escapes Taliban regime With no communications being established between Kabul and New Delhi, the official noted that "the situation of diplomatic decision making is in limbo." The official added that this status quo ante is uncertain given the current circumstances. Taliban had taken complete charge of Afghanistan in August.

Afghan embassy in India reels under financial crunch

 Dubai [UAE], October 12 (ANI): A total of 16 warm-up matches will be played between participant teams of the ICC Men`s T20 World Cup 2021 - a precursor to a tournament.It is pertinent to note that all of the matches in Abu Dhabi and Dubai will take place behind closed doors - no spectators will be allowed attendance.India will square off against England on October 18 in Dubai and against Australia on October 20 in Dubai.Apart from facing India, England will also square off against New Zealand in the warm-ups. While Australia will also take on New Zealand in the other warm-up fixture.Pakistan will square off against West Indies and South Africa in their warm-up matches.Those keen on closely studying players will be delighted to know eight of the 16 warm-up matches will be broadcast on Star, with highlights for these matches available on ICC`s digital platforms.The first set of warm-up fixtures will begin on October 12, featuring all eight teams in Round 1 of the tournament. Each team will play two warm-up matches, with these fixtures being played over the course of the next two days, starting with the clash between Papua New Guinea and Ireland in Abu Dhabi.The second set of warm-up fixtures will begin on October 18, and conclude on October 20, with the eight confirmed Super12 teams set to play two warm-up matches each. (ANI) 

Dubai [UAE], October 12 (ANI): A total of 16 warm-up matches will be played between participant teams of the ICC Men`s T20 World Cup 2021 - a precursor to a tournament.

Dubai [UAE], October 12 (ANI): A total of 16 warm-up matches will be played between participant teams of the ICC Men`s T20 World Cup 2021 - a precursor to a tournament.It is pertinent to note that all of the matches in Abu Dhabi and Dubai will take place behind closed doors - no spectators will be allowed attendance.India will square off against England on October 18 in Dubai and against Australia on October 20 in Dubai.Apart from facing India, England will also square off against New Zealand in the warm-ups. While Australia will also take on New Zealand in the other warm-up fixture.Pakistan will square off against West Indies and South Africa in their warm-up matches.Those keen on closely studying players will be delighted to know eight of the 16 warm-up matches will be broadcast on Star, with highlights for these matches available on ICC`s digital platforms.The first set of warm-up fixtures will begin on October 12, featuring all eight teams in Round 1 of the tournament. Each team will play two warm-up matches, with these fixtures being played over the course of the next two days, starting with the clash between Papua New Guinea and Ireland in Abu Dhabi.The second set of warm-up fixtures will begin on October 18, and conclude on October 20, with the eight confirmed Super12 teams set to play two warm-up matches each. (ANI)

T20 WC: India to square off against England, Australia in warm-up fixtures

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi while participating at the virtual G20 summit on Afghanistan called for urgent humanitarian assistance for Afghan citizens.

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Participated in the G20 Summit on Afghanistan. Stressed on preventing Afghan territory from becoming the source of radicalisation and terrorism. 
 
Also called for urgent and unhindered humanitarian assistance to Afghan citizens and an inclusive administration.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1447922249114300429?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 12, 2021</a></blockquote>
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India's prime minister also asserted that Afghanistan's territory should not become "the source of radicalisation and terrorism".&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/eu-pledges-12-billion-in-aid-for-afghanistan-to-avert-humanitarian-collapse-420169">Also Read:&nbsp;EU pledges $1.2 billion in aid for Afghanistan</a>

"Need to ensure Afghan territory does not become a source of radicalisation and terrorism, regionally or globally," India's prime minister said.

"A unified international response based on UNSC Resolution 2593 is necessary to improve the situation in Afghanistan," PM Modi told the G20 summit.

PM Modi also called for an "inclusive administration" in Afghanistan.&nbsp;The PMO informed the Indian prime minister emphasised on the need to enhance joint fight against the nexus of radicalisation, terrorism and&nbsp;smuggling of drugs and arms in the region.

The meeting was convened by Italy which currently holds the G20 presidency. It was chaired by Italian PM Mario Draghi &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from Agencies)

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi while participating at the virtual G20 summit on Afghanistan called for urgent humanitarian assistance for Afghan citizens. Participated in the G20 Summit on Afghanistan.

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi while participating at the virtual G20 summit on Afghanistan called for urgent humanitarian assistance for Afghan citizens. Participated in the G20 Summit on Afghanistan. Stressed on preventing Afghan territory from becoming the source of radicalisation and terrorism. Also called for urgent and unhindered humanitarian assistance to Afghan citizens and an inclusive administration. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 12, 2021 × India's prime minister also asserted that Afghanistan's territory should not become "the source of radicalisation and terrorism". Also Read: EU pledges $1.2 billion in aid for Afghanistan "Need to ensure Afghan territory does not become a source of radicalisation and terrorism, regionally or globally," India's prime minister said. "A unified international response based on UNSC Resolution 2593 is necessary to improve the situation in Afghanistan," PM Modi told the G20 summit. PM Modi also called for an "inclusive administration" in Afghanistan. The PMO informed the Indian prime minister emphasised on the need to enhance joint fight against the nexus of radicalisation, terrorism and smuggling of drugs and arms in the region. The meeting was convened by Italy which currently holds the G20 presidency. It was chaired by Italian PM Mario Draghi (With inputs from Agencies)

Need to ensure Afghan territory does not become source of  terrorism: PM Modi at G20 summit on Afghanistan

Seven terrorists have been killed in five major operations across the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir in last 24 hours. Yesterday, five Indian army soldiers including a JCO were killed in a gunfight in the Shahdara area near the boundary of Poonch-Rajouri districts yesterday.&nbsp;

In two operations in South Kashmir's Shopian district, 5 terrorists were killed by security forces in a joint operation. Earlier, Two terrorists were killed in two different operations in Anantnag and Bandipora districts.&nbsp;

"Two unidentified terrorists have been killed. Search operation is going on," said Vijay Kumar, Inspector General of Kashmir.

"Three terrorists of LeT (TRF) were killed another operation in Shopian. Out of the three terrorists who were killed, one has been identified as Mukhtar Shah of Ganderbal, who shifted to Shopian after killing a street hawker named Virendra Paswan who was from Bihar. Incriminating materials including arms &amp; ammunition have been recovered," he added.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-police-arrest-suspected-pakistani-terrorist-ak-47-recovered-420129">Indian Police arrest suspected Pakistani terrorist; AK-47 recovered</a>

The security forces have intensified search operations across the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. This comes after the 7 civilians were killed in the Kashmir valley in 7 incidents recently.&nbsp;

"Over 500 people have been detained by security forces in connection to the recent civilian killings. Raids and search operations across the valley continue," say sources.

The operation that started yesterday in the Poonch district and later spread to Rajouri district still continues after 24 hours. Five soldiers were killed in the gunfight in the same operation yesterday.&nbsp;

"During the conduct of the operation, terrorists brought down a heavy volume of fire on army troops leading to fatal injuries to one JCO and four soldiers. The gallant JCO and soldiers who made the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty are: Nb Subedar Jaswinder Singh, SM Nk Mandeep Singh, Sep Gajjan Singh, Sep Saraj Singh and Sep Vaisakh H.'' said Lt Col Devender Anand, PRO Defence.&nbsp;

The Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir has been put on high security alert.&nbsp;

Seven terrorists have been killed in five major operations across the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir in last 24 hours. Yesterday, five Indian army soldiers including a JCO were killed in a gunfight in the Shahdara area near the boundary of Poonch-Rajouri districts yesterday.

Seven terrorists have been killed in five major operations across the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir in last 24 hours. Yesterday, five Indian army soldiers including a JCO were killed in a gunfight in the Shahdara area near the boundary of Poonch-Rajouri districts yesterday. In two operations in South Kashmir's Shopian district, 5 terrorists were killed by security forces in a joint operation. Earlier, Two terrorists were killed in two different operations in Anantnag and Bandipora districts. "Two unidentified terrorists have been killed. Search operation is going on," said Vijay Kumar, Inspector General of Kashmir. "Three terrorists of LeT (TRF) were killed another operation in Shopian. Out of the three terrorists who were killed, one has been identified as Mukhtar Shah of Ganderbal, who shifted to Shopian after killing a street hawker named Virendra Paswan who was from Bihar. Incriminating materials including arms & ammunition have been recovered," he added. Also Read | Indian Police arrest suspected Pakistani terrorist; AK-47 recovered The security forces have intensified search operations across the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. This comes after the 7 civilians were killed in the Kashmir valley in 7 incidents recently. "Over 500 people have been detained by security forces in connection to the recent civilian killings. Raids and search operations across the valley continue," say sources. The operation that started yesterday in the Poonch district and later spread to Rajouri district still continues after 24 hours. Five soldiers were killed in the gunfight in the same operation yesterday. "During the conduct of the operation, terrorists brought down a heavy volume of fire on army troops leading to fatal injuries to one JCO and four soldiers. The gallant JCO and soldiers who made the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty are: Nb Subedar Jaswinder Singh, SM Nk Mandeep Singh, Sep Gajjan Singh, Sep Saraj Singh and Sep Vaisakh H.'' said Lt Col Devender Anand, PRO Defence. The Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir has been put on high security alert.

Jammu and Kashmir: Seven terrorists killed in five operations in 24 hours

The Special Cell of Delhi Police has arrested a suspected Pakistani terrorist, who was planning to carry out a terror attack during the festival season in the national capital, an official said here on Tuesday.

The suspected terrorist was arrested from the Laxmi Nagar area of the national capital.&nbsp;

According to the official, the suspected Pakistani national, who had obtained fake Indian identity cards through forged documents, has been identified as Mohd Ashraf alias Ali, a resident of Punjab province in Pakistan.

The arrested accused was living as an Indian national by the name of Ali Ahmed Noori, a resident of Shastri Nagar in the national capital.

"At the time of his arrest, the police recovered an AK 47 rifle along with several other arms and ammunition," Deputy Commissioner of Police, Special Cell, Pramod Kushwaha said.

Apart from AK 47 rifle, two magazines with 60 rounds, one hand grenade, and two pistols with 50 rounds of cartridges were also recovered from his possession.

The suspect has been arrested under relevant sections of the UAPA Act, Explosives Act, and Arms Act, the official said.

Notably, the cops in the national capital were already on high alert due to the festival season. "During the festive season, there is a high footfall of people in the markets, temples, and commercial places. This rush of people can be used by anti-national elements having nefarious designs to carry out terror attacks in such places," a top official had told IANS, recently.

Delhi Police Commissioner Rakesh Asthana had also taken a crime review meeting on Saturday with senior officials and issued directions to enhance their vigil during these days.

In the crime review meeting of the Delhi police chief, it was also discussed how to prevent terrorists or anti-national elements from taking the help of local gangsters.

A senior police official told IANS they had already made strict security arrangements keeping in view the ongoing countrywide celebrations.

Pertinently, this major arrest comes nearly a month after the Special Cell, on September 14, busted a Pakistan-based terror module and arrested seven suspected terrorists, including two people who were trained by Pakistan`s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI).

The ISI had trained the two terrorists to blow bridges and railway tracks to cause mass casualties in India.

The arrested terrorists were planning to carry out terror attacks in the country during this festival season. All the suspects are currently in police custody.

The Special Cell of Delhi Police has arrested a suspected Pakistani terrorist, who was planning to carry out a terror attack during the festival season in the national capital, an official said here on Tuesday.

The Special Cell of Delhi Police has arrested a suspected Pakistani terrorist, who was planning to carry out a terror attack during the festival season in the national capital, an official said here on Tuesday. The suspected terrorist was arrested from the Laxmi Nagar area of the national capital. According to the official, the suspected Pakistani national, who had obtained fake Indian identity cards through forged documents, has been identified as Mohd Ashraf alias Ali, a resident of Punjab province in Pakistan. The arrested accused was living as an Indian national by the name of Ali Ahmed Noori, a resident of Shastri Nagar in the national capital. "At the time of his arrest, the police recovered an AK 47 rifle along with several other arms and ammunition," Deputy Commissioner of Police, Special Cell, Pramod Kushwaha said. Apart from AK 47 rifle, two magazines with 60 rounds, one hand grenade, and two pistols with 50 rounds of cartridges were also recovered from his possession. The suspect has been arrested under relevant sections of the UAPA Act, Explosives Act, and Arms Act, the official said. Notably, the cops in the national capital were already on high alert due to the festival season. "During the festive season, there is a high footfall of people in the markets, temples, and commercial places. This rush of people can be used by anti-national elements having nefarious designs to carry out terror attacks in such places," a top official had told IANS, recently. Delhi Police Commissioner Rakesh Asthana had also taken a crime review meeting on Saturday with senior officials and issued directions to enhance their vigil during these days. In the crime review meeting of the Delhi police chief, it was also discussed how to prevent terrorists or anti-national elements from taking the help of local gangsters. A senior police official told IANS they had already made strict security arrangements keeping in view the ongoing countrywide celebrations. Pertinently, this major arrest comes nearly a month after the Special Cell, on September 14, busted a Pakistan-based terror module and arrested seven suspected terrorists, including two people who were trained by Pakistan`s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). The ISI had trained the two terrorists to blow bridges and railway tracks to cause mass casualties in India. The arrested terrorists were planning to carry out terror attacks in the country during this festival season. All the suspects are currently in police custody.

Indian Police arrest suspected Pakistani terrorist; AK-47 recovered

The pharma regulator's Subject Expert Committee (SEC) has recommended that Bharat Biotech's Covaxin be approved for emergency use in children aged 2 to 18.

The SEC has submitted its proposal for final clearance to the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI).

"After detailed deliberation, the committee recommended for grant of market authorization of the vaccine for the age group of 2 to 18 years for restricted use in an emergency situation," the expert panel said in a statement. 
 
Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-covid-19-update-high-infection-rate-in-0-19-age-group-in-india-globally-new-cases-fall-by-9-419214">&nbsp;WHO COVID-19 Update: High infection rate in 0-19 age group in India, globally new cases fall by 9%</a>

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<h5>Covaxin is the second Covid-19 vaccine to be authorised for emergency use in children in India, following Zydus Healthcare's ZyCoV-D, which is intended for children over the age of 12.</h5>
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It said that the emergency use authorisation, however, is subject to four conditions.

"The developer of Covaxin will continue the study as per Whole Virion, Inactivated Corona Virus Vaccine the approved clinical trial protocol," SEC added. 
 
Watch: India administers over 900 million jabs of COVID vaccines

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-administers-over-900-million-jabs-of-covid-vaccines-418230/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The expert panel also mentioned the following conditions:&nbsp; 
 
The company should provide updated Prescribing Information/Package Insert (PI), Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC), and Factsheet; the company should submit safety data, including AEFI and AESI data, with due analysis, every 15 days for the first two months and monthly thereafter, as required by the New Drugs and Clinical Trials Rules, 2019; and the company should submit risk management plan.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The pharma regulator's Subject Expert Committee (SEC) has recommended that Bharat Biotech's Covaxin be approved for emergency use in children aged 2 to 18. The SEC has submitted its proposal for final clearance to the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI).

The pharma regulator's Subject Expert Committee (SEC) has recommended that Bharat Biotech's Covaxin be approved for emergency use in children aged 2 to 18. The SEC has submitted its proposal for final clearance to the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI). "After detailed deliberation, the committee recommended for grant of market authorization of the vaccine for the age group of 2 to 18 years for restricted use in an emergency situation," the expert panel said in a statement. Also Read | WHO COVID-19 Update: High infection rate in 0-19 age group in India, globally new cases fall by 9% Covaxin is the second Covid-19 vaccine to be authorised for emergency use in children in India, following Zydus Healthcare's ZyCoV-D, which is intended for children over the age of 12. × It said that the emergency use authorisation, however, is subject to four conditions. "The developer of Covaxin will continue the study as per Whole Virion, Inactivated Corona Virus Vaccine the approved clinical trial protocol," SEC added. Watch: India administers over 900 million jabs of COVID vaccines The expert panel also mentioned the following conditions: The company should provide updated Prescribing Information/Package Insert (PI), Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC), and Factsheet; the company should submit safety data, including AEFI and AESI data, with due analysis, every 15 days for the first two months and monthly thereafter, as required by the New Drugs and Clinical Trials Rules, 2019; and the company should submit risk management plan. (With inputs from agencies)

COVID-19: Covaxin gets emergency use nod for children aged 2-18 years

On Tuesday, October 12, the Maharashtra government issued a set of instructions for the operation of movie halls and theatres, which will reopen on October 22, months after the second wave of the coronavirus pandemic.

Is it necessary to be completely vaccinated to visit a movie theatre? Where can you purchase tickets?

Here are the most recent SOPs:

1. Cinemas/theatres/multiplexes/auditoriums should not be more than 50% full.

2.Aarogya Setu: All guests at movie halls/theatres will be required to use an app that displays their safe status, or they can present their last COVID vaccination certificate.

3. All employees, including those working in the food court or cleaning services, must have had two doses of the COVID-19 vaccination, and 14 days must have passed since the second dose.&nbsp;

4. Multiplexes should have staggered show times to minimise congestion.

5. For ticket booking and payment for food and beverages, digital no-contact payment methods should be utilised.

6. Proper crowd control in parking lots, thermal screening of visitors, and only asymptomatic individuals will be permitted.

Restricted individuals in elevators have been warned.

7. Regular COVID-appropriate behaviour, such as masking, physical distance, covering of the face when coughing/sneezing, regular hand sanitization, and so on, is also enforced.

8. No food or beverages will be permitted within the screening room.Packaged food and beverages will only be permitted outside the screening hall. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

On Tuesday, October 12, the Maharashtra government issued a set of instructions for the operation of movie halls and theatres, which will reopen on October 22, months after the second wave of the coronavirus pandemic.

On Tuesday, October 12, the Maharashtra government issued a set of instructions for the operation of movie halls and theatres, which will reopen on October 22, months after the second wave of the coronavirus pandemic. Is it necessary to be completely vaccinated to visit a movie theatre? Where can you purchase tickets? Here are the most recent SOPs: 1. Cinemas/theatres/multiplexes/auditoriums should not be more than 50% full. 2.Aarogya Setu: All guests at movie halls/theatres will be required to use an app that displays their safe status, or they can present their last COVID vaccination certificate. 3. All employees, including those working in the food court or cleaning services, must have had two doses of the COVID-19 vaccination, and 14 days must have passed since the second dose. 4. Multiplexes should have staggered show times to minimise congestion. 5. For ticket booking and payment for food and beverages, digital no-contact payment methods should be utilised. 6. Proper crowd control in parking lots, thermal screening of visitors, and only asymptomatic individuals will be permitted. Restricted individuals in elevators have been warned. 7. Regular COVID-appropriate behaviour, such as masking, physical distance, covering of the face when coughing/sneezing, regular hand sanitization, and so on, is also enforced. 8. No food or beverages will be permitted within the screening room.Packaged food and beverages will only be permitted outside the screening hall. (With inputs from agencies)

COVID-19: Maharashtra cinemas, auditoriums to reopen from October 22

Amazon India on Tuesday announced the launch of 'Delivering Smiles'&nbsp;initiative, where the company will directly give, and facilitate contribution of digital devices like mobile phones, and laptops, among students and young people from marginalised communities.

The initiative aims to bridge the digital divide in the country, increase accessibility of digital devices for students from underprivileged communities, and empower them for a brighter future.

Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/amazon-launches-dog-like-robot-that-can-monitor-your-home-416781">&nbsp;Amazon launches dog-like robot that can monitor your home</a>

As part of the initiative, Amazon will directly provide 20,000 new digital devices to underprivileged young people, in partnership with over 150 large and small non-profit organisations, impacting over 100,000 students across India, the company said in a statement.

In addition, the company also encourages its customers to either contribute in cash on Amazon Pay or donate their old devices essentially mobile phones, and laptops, that will be refurbished and distributed to provide digital learning devices for young people, it added.

"The COVID-19 pandemic has brought to focus the stark digital divide, not only in the field of education but also in access to essential services. Amongst the most adversely affected are young people from marginalised communities," said Manish Tiwary, Vice President, Amazon India, in the statement.

"Together with our customers, employees and partners, we aim to bridge the gap by enabling young people with digital devices for continued access to online education and essential services for their families," he added.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jeff-bezos-shares-an-old-article-predicting-amazons-failure-elon-musk-replies-419819">Jeff Bezos shares an old article predicting Amazon's failure, Elon Musk replies</a>

Cash contribution from customers is enabled by a partnership between Amazon Pay and GiveIndia. Proceeds from the contribution will be used for purchasing new devices, data cards and digital accessories for students.

Old mobiles that customers contribute will be picked-up by Cashify, Amazon's partner in this initiative, who will refurbish it and donate to Goonj, a nonprofit organization working in the field of sustainable material giving, the company said.

Amazon India on Tuesday announced the launch of 'Delivering Smiles' initiative, where the company will directly give, and facilitate contribution of digital devices like mobile phones, and laptops, among students and young people from marginalised communities.

Amazon India on Tuesday announced the launch of 'Delivering Smiles' initiative, where the company will directly give, and facilitate contribution of digital devices like mobile phones, and laptops, among students and young people from marginalised communities. The initiative aims to bridge the digital divide in the country, increase accessibility of digital devices for students from underprivileged communities, and empower them for a brighter future. Also Read | Amazon launches dog-like robot that can monitor your home As part of the initiative, Amazon will directly provide 20,000 new digital devices to underprivileged young people, in partnership with over 150 large and small non-profit organisations, impacting over 100,000 students across India, the company said in a statement. In addition, the company also encourages its customers to either contribute in cash on Amazon Pay or donate their old devices essentially mobile phones, and laptops, that will be refurbished and distributed to provide digital learning devices for young people, it added. "The COVID-19 pandemic has brought to focus the stark digital divide, not only in the field of education but also in access to essential services. Amongst the most adversely affected are young people from marginalised communities," said Manish Tiwary, Vice President, Amazon India, in the statement. "Together with our customers, employees and partners, we aim to bridge the gap by enabling young people with digital devices for continued access to online education and essential services for their families," he added. Also Read | Jeff Bezos shares an old article predicting Amazon's failure, Elon Musk replies Cash contribution from customers is enabled by a partnership between Amazon Pay and GiveIndia. Proceeds from the contribution will be used for purchasing new devices, data cards and digital accessories for students. Old mobiles that customers contribute will be picked-up by Cashify, Amazon's partner in this initiative, who will refurbish it and donate to Goonj, a nonprofit organization working in the field of sustainable material giving, the company said.

Amazon to provide 20K digital devices to underprivileged youth in India

Indian hospitality startup Zostel has asked the market regulator to reject an application from SoftBank Group-backed rival Oyo Hotels and Rooms to go public due to a legal tussle between the firms over a deal that fell apart six years ago.

Zostel said Oyo's capital structure was not final and that its draft prospectus filed with the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) was "replete with material omissions," showed a copy of a letter Zostel sent to SEBI, seen by Reuters.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pandemic-saviors-food-delivery-apps-now-under-fire-419567">Pandemic saviors, food delivery apps now under fire</a>

Oyo said Zostel's intervention represented "unnecessary and repetitive efforts to create a wrong perception".

"This shows a pattern of Zostel trying to distract Oyo from pursuing its business goals," it said in a statement to Reuters.

Oyo filed papers in late September for an initial public offering (IPO) that will consist of a fresh issue of shares of up to 70 billion rupees ($927.30 million) and an offer for sale of existing shares of as much as 14.30 billion rupees.

It is seeking a valuation of $10 billion to $12 billion, a source told Reuters this month.

Oyo and Zostel have been in a legal battle over a 2015 deal for Oyo to buy some of Zostel's businesses and Zostel to get a 7 per cent&nbsp;stake in Oyo. Though the deal fell through, Zostel has said it is still entitled to the stake, whereas Oyo has said otherwise, arguing they had not reached a definitive agreement.

Zostel has asked a Delhi court to stop Oyo from changing its shareholder structure, including through an IPO, according to a petition previously seen by Reuters.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/hong-kong-stock-exchange-halts-trading-of-evergrande-shares-418036">Hong Kong Stock Exchange halts trading of Evergrande shares</a>

In its letter to SEBI dated October&nbsp;11, Zostel said SEBI's regulations prohibit Oyo from making any public offer of its shares since it had not issued the stake to Zostel's shareholders.

Separately, Oyo has challenged an order from a Supreme Court-appointed arbitrator who ruled that the terms of the 2015 deal were binding and that Oyo breached its obligations by failing to execute a definitive agreement.

An Oyo counsel told Reuters late on Monday there was nothing in the order that prevented Oyo from going ahead with its IPO.

Zostel and SEBI did not respond to requests for comment outside regular business hours.

Indian hospitality startup Zostel has asked the market regulator to reject an application from SoftBank Group-backed rival Oyo Hotels and Rooms to go public due to a legal tussle between the firms over a deal that fell apart six years ago.

Indian hospitality startup Zostel has asked the market regulator to reject an application from SoftBank Group-backed rival Oyo Hotels and Rooms to go public due to a legal tussle between the firms over a deal that fell apart six years ago. Zostel said Oyo's capital structure was not final and that its draft prospectus filed with the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) was "replete with material omissions," showed a copy of a letter Zostel sent to SEBI, seen by Reuters. Also Read | Pandemic saviors, food delivery apps now under fire Oyo said Zostel's intervention represented "unnecessary and repetitive efforts to create a wrong perception". "This shows a pattern of Zostel trying to distract Oyo from pursuing its business goals," it said in a statement to Reuters. Oyo filed papers in late September for an initial public offering (IPO) that will consist of a fresh issue of shares of up to 70 billion rupees ($927.30 million) and an offer for sale of existing shares of as much as 14.30 billion rupees. It is seeking a valuation of $10 billion to $12 billion, a source told Reuters this month. Oyo and Zostel have been in a legal battle over a 2015 deal for Oyo to buy some of Zostel's businesses and Zostel to get a 7 per cent stake in Oyo. Though the deal fell through, Zostel has said it is still entitled to the stake, whereas Oyo has said otherwise, arguing they had not reached a definitive agreement. Zostel has asked a Delhi court to stop Oyo from changing its shareholder structure, including through an IPO, according to a petition previously seen by Reuters. Also Read | Hong Kong Stock Exchange halts trading of Evergrande shares In its letter to SEBI dated October 11, Zostel said SEBI's regulations prohibit Oyo from making any public offer of its shares since it had not issued the stake to Zostel's shareholders. Separately, Oyo has challenged an order from a Supreme Court-appointed arbitrator who ruled that the terms of the 2015 deal were binding and that Oyo breached its obligations by failing to execute a definitive agreement. An Oyo counsel told Reuters late on Monday there was nothing in the order that prevented Oyo from going ahead with its IPO. Zostel and SEBI did not respond to requests for comment outside regular business hours.

India's Zostel asks regulator to reject SoftBank-backed Oyo's IPO filing

Minister of State (Independent Charge) of Science and Technology Dr Jitendra Singh on Sunday said that this is the golden period of agriculture happening in India under Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

"This is the golden period of agriculture happening in India under Prime Minister Narendra Modi and technological interventions, research and innovation in agriculture under his leadership will double the farmer's income by 2022," Singh said, as per the release by the Ministry of Science &amp; Technology.

The Minister said this while attending the concluding ceremony of the five-day-long Northern India Regional Agriculture Fair 2021 as chief guest at SKUAST Jammu.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr Singh said that PM Modi is seriously towards agriculture development in India that can be judged from the fact that two new Ministries, Jal Shakti and Skill Development &amp; Entrepreneurship have been created only to promote agriculture and doubling the farmer's&nbsp;income by 2022.

He also remarked that the Modi government is giving special impetus to Agriculture Start-Ups.

Singh said that the agriculture and farm production has been revolutionised in India under the current government which is evident from the various initiatives taken by the government for the welfare of farmers like the Soil Health Card, Neem Coated Urea, PM Fasal Bima Yojana, PM Kissan Sammaan, e-Nam,PM Kissan Maandhan Yojana, which have empowered the Agriculture sector financially and resourcefully.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/as-special-envoy-of-pm-modi-mos-lekhi-to-visit-serbia-to-attend-60th-anniversary-of-nam-419538">As special envoy of PM Modi, MoS Lekhi to visit Serbia to attend 60th anniversary of NAM</a>

Enumerating the development initiatives taken in J&amp;K vis-a-vis agriculture &amp; innovation, Dr Singh said the establishment of north India's first biotechnology park, two high seed processing plants at Kathua, the launch of India's first Aroma Mission will open new vistas of growth, opportunities and innovation in agriculture in Jammu, read the release.

Speaking to the farmers present on the occasion, he emphasised that a farmer can now engage himself in multiple activities depending upon his capacity, resources so as to become integrated as the working in silos is over now.

Giving examples of the entrepreneurs involved in various innovative agricultural practices &amp; who are earning in lakhs, Singh stressed upon the students present there to become job providers and not job seekers, become agricultural technocrats through start-ups &amp; be the architects of innovative India as the agriculture in India is no longer the traditional farming of 19th Century.

Dr&nbsp;Jitendra Singh also urged SKUAST administration to promote 75 agricultural Startups from this university on 75 years of India's independence on the lines of his Ministry which is also promoting start-ups as 75 young start-ups in science, 75 women start-ups in science, 75 SIT hubs dedicated to SCs and STs.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-7-civilians-killed-in-10-days-sikh-leaders-urge-people-to-not-go-to-work-until-situation-normalises-418925">J&amp;K: 7 civilians killed in 10 days, sikh leaders urge people to not go to work until situation normalises</a>

Singh further said, "A proactive outreach for the start-ups is the need of the hour to get the best minds for the promotion of our products at national and international level be that the basmati rice, rajmash or other products.

"For the promotion of the products and the start-ups, the Minister emphasised the creation of a wider media space accompanied by the latest technology and social media boom so as to promote the local products and start-ups.

During his address, the Minister asserted sustainable agricultural practices and organic farming which is being promoted by the current government.&nbsp;

Minister of State (Independent Charge) of Science and Technology Dr Jitendra Singh on Sunday said that this is the golden period of agriculture happening in India under Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Minister of State (Independent Charge) of Science and Technology Dr Jitendra Singh on Sunday said that this is the golden period of agriculture happening in India under Prime Minister Narendra Modi. "This is the golden period of agriculture happening in India under Prime Minister Narendra Modi and technological interventions, research and innovation in agriculture under his leadership will double the farmer's income by 2022," Singh said, as per the release by the Ministry of Science & Technology. The Minister said this while attending the concluding ceremony of the five-day-long Northern India Regional Agriculture Fair 2021 as chief guest at SKUAST Jammu. Speaking on the occasion, Dr Singh said that PM Modi is seriously towards agriculture development in India that can be judged from the fact that two new Ministries, Jal Shakti and Skill Development & Entrepreneurship have been created only to promote agriculture and doubling the farmer's income by 2022. He also remarked that the Modi government is giving special impetus to Agriculture Start-Ups. Singh said that the agriculture and farm production has been revolutionised in India under the current government which is evident from the various initiatives taken by the government for the welfare of farmers like the Soil Health Card, Neem Coated Urea, PM Fasal Bima Yojana, PM Kissan Sammaan, e-Nam,PM Kissan Maandhan Yojana, which have empowered the Agriculture sector financially and resourcefully. Also Read | As special envoy of PM Modi, MoS Lekhi to visit Serbia to attend 60th anniversary of NAM Enumerating the development initiatives taken in J&K vis-a-vis agriculture & innovation, Dr Singh said the establishment of north India's first biotechnology park, two high seed processing plants at Kathua, the launch of India's first Aroma Mission will open new vistas of growth, opportunities and innovation in agriculture in Jammu, read the release. Speaking to the farmers present on the occasion, he emphasised that a farmer can now engage himself in multiple activities depending upon his capacity, resources so as to become integrated as the working in silos is over now. Giving examples of the entrepreneurs involved in various innovative agricultural practices & who are earning in lakhs, Singh stressed upon the students present there to become job providers and not job seekers, become agricultural technocrats through start-ups & be the architects of innovative India as the agriculture in India is no longer the traditional farming of 19th Century. Dr Jitendra Singh also urged SKUAST administration to promote 75 agricultural Startups from this university on 75 years of India's independence on the lines of his Ministry which is also promoting start-ups as 75 young start-ups in science, 75 women start-ups in science, 75 SIT hubs dedicated to SCs and STs. Also Read | J&K: 7 civilians killed in 10 days, sikh leaders urge people to not go to work until situation normalises Singh further said, "A proactive outreach for the start-ups is the need of the hour to get the best minds for the promotion of our products at national and international level be that the basmati rice, rajmash or other products. "For the promotion of the products and the start-ups, the Minister emphasised the creation of a wider media space accompanied by the latest technology and social media boom so as to promote the local products and start-ups. During his address, the Minister asserted sustainable agricultural practices and organic farming which is being promoted by the current government.

Indian agriculture witnessing golden period under PM Modi, says MoS Jitendra Singh

By breaking into traditional male bastions, a tiny group of women is making a loud plea for gender equality during Durga Puja.

Female priests are rare and not the norm in India, but at 66 Pally Durga Puja, four female priests violated centuries-old customs, making this Durga Puja in Kolkata historic.

All the ceremonies to honour the Goddess Maha Shakti are being carried out by Nandini Bhowmick, Ruma Roy, Seymanti Banerjee, and Poulomi Chakroborty!

The 66 Pally Club in south Kolkata has ventured into uncharted territory with its theme 'Mayer Haate Mayer Abahon' (Mothers worshipping the Mother Goddess).

The organisation, known as 'Shubhamastu,' was founded 12 years ago and has already presided over numerous Hindu rituals such as marriages, shraddha, and grihapravesh around the city.&nbsp;

It is led by Nandini, a former Sanskrit professor and stage performer.

This will be the first time they have held a communal Durga Puja.

The 'Shubhamastu' organisation asserts that, unlike traditional priest groups, there is no leader or head priestess.

They hope to educate people on how to do rituals while adhering to age-old customs, as well as encourage more women to come out and explore areas where they have not previously ventured.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

By breaking into traditional male bastions, a tiny group of women is making a loud plea for gender equality during Durga Puja. Female priests are rare and not the norm in India, but at 66 Pally Durga Puja, four female priests violated centuries-old customs, making this Durga Puja in Kolkata historic.

By breaking into traditional male bastions, a tiny group of women is making a loud plea for gender equality during Durga Puja. Female priests are rare and not the norm in India, but at 66 Pally Durga Puja, four female priests violated centuries-old customs, making this Durga Puja in Kolkata historic. All the ceremonies to honour the Goddess Maha Shakti are being carried out by Nandini Bhowmick, Ruma Roy, Seymanti Banerjee, and Poulomi Chakroborty! The 66 Pally Club in south Kolkata has ventured into uncharted territory with its theme 'Mayer Haate Mayer Abahon' (Mothers worshipping the Mother Goddess). The organisation, known as 'Shubhamastu,' was founded 12 years ago and has already presided over numerous Hindu rituals such as marriages, shraddha, and grihapravesh around the city. It is led by Nandini, a former Sanskrit professor and stage performer. This will be the first time they have held a communal Durga Puja. The 'Shubhamastu' organisation asserts that, unlike traditional priest groups, there is no leader or head priestess. They hope to educate people on how to do rituals while adhering to age-old customs, as well as encourage more women to come out and explore areas where they have not previously ventured. (With inputs from agencies)

First time in the history of Durga Puja in Bengal, women priests to perform rituals

The Indian government has received the third set of Swiss bank account information from Switzerland.

This was done, as part of an annual exercise, under which the European nation shared details of nearly 33 lakh financial accounts with 96 nations.

On the condition of anonymity, officials revealed that the details relate mostly to businessmen, including NRI's now settled in several South-East Asian countries as well as in the US, the UK and even some African and South American countries.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pandora-papers-leak-anil-ambani-sachin-tendulkar-jackie-shroff-named-check-list-of-other-high-profile-indian-names-418066">Pandora papers leak: Anil Ambani, Sachin Tendulkar, Jackie Shroff named, check list of other high-profile Indian names</a>

The Indian authorities were provided with information regarding many individuals and companies with accounts in Swiss financial institutions.

According to experts, the Automatic Exchange Of Information (AEOI) data received by India has been quite useful for establishing a strong prosecution case against those who have any unaccounted wealth, as it provides entire details of deposits and transfers as well as of all earnings, including through investments in securities and other assets.

The exchanged details include identification, account and financial information, including name, address, country of residence and tax identification number, as well as information concerning the reporting financial institution, account balance and capital income.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pandora-papers-largest-leak-of-offshore-data-in-history-explained-417996">Pandora Papers: Largest leak of offshore data in history explained</a>

Tax authorities use the exchanged information to verify whether taxpayers have correctly reported their financial accounts on their tax returns.

While the information about contributions to non-profit organisations and other such foundations, as also details on investments in digital currencies still remain out of bounds from the AEOI framework; for the first time this year, Switzerland has also agreed to share information about foreigners' real estate holdings there.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/switzerland-to-share-information-on-real-estate-assets-owned-by-indian-nationals-412701">Switzerland to share information on real estate assets owned by Indian nationals</a>

This is seen as a major milestone in the Indian government's fight against black money allegedly stashed abroad, as authorities will now be able to investigate tax liabilities as well as earnings associated with flats, apartments, condos, etc. owned by Indians in Switzerland.

Swiss Federal Tax Administration (FTA) also reported on Monday that 10 more countries - Antigua and Barbuda, Azerbaijan, Dominica, Ghana, Lebanon, Macau, Pakistan, Qatar, Samoa and Vanuatu, were involved in the exchange of information this year.

Watch | In 2015, Swiss bank released list of dormant A/Cs, mostly A/Cs linked to the Indians

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/in-2015-swiss-bank-released-list-of-dormant-acs-mostly-acs-linked-to-the-indians-261221/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The exchange took place last month and the next set of information would be shared by Switzerland in September 2022.

With this, Switzerland is seeking to reposition itself as a key global financial centre while dispelling the long-standing perception that the Swiss banking system is a safe haven for large amounts of black money.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Indian government has received the third set of Swiss bank account information from Switzerland. This was done, as part of an annual exercise, under which the European nation shared details of nearly 33 lakh financial accounts with 96 nations.

The Indian government has received the third set of Swiss bank account information from Switzerland. This was done, as part of an annual exercise, under which the European nation shared details of nearly 33 lakh financial accounts with 96 nations. On the condition of anonymity, officials revealed that the details relate mostly to businessmen, including NRI's now settled in several South-East Asian countries as well as in the US, the UK and even some African and South American countries. Also read | Pandora papers leak: Anil Ambani, Sachin Tendulkar, Jackie Shroff named, check list of other high-profile Indian names The Indian authorities were provided with information regarding many individuals and companies with accounts in Swiss financial institutions. According to experts, the Automatic Exchange Of Information (AEOI) data received by India has been quite useful for establishing a strong prosecution case against those who have any unaccounted wealth, as it provides entire details of deposits and transfers as well as of all earnings, including through investments in securities and other assets. The exchanged details include identification, account and financial information, including name, address, country of residence and tax identification number, as well as information concerning the reporting financial institution, account balance and capital income. Also Read | Pandora Papers: Largest leak of offshore data in history explained Tax authorities use the exchanged information to verify whether taxpayers have correctly reported their financial accounts on their tax returns. While the information about contributions to non-profit organisations and other such foundations, as also details on investments in digital currencies still remain out of bounds from the AEOI framework; for the first time this year, Switzerland has also agreed to share information about foreigners' real estate holdings there. Also read | Switzerland to share information on real estate assets owned by Indian nationals This is seen as a major milestone in the Indian government's fight against black money allegedly stashed abroad, as authorities will now be able to investigate tax liabilities as well as earnings associated with flats, apartments, condos, etc. owned by Indians in Switzerland. Swiss Federal Tax Administration (FTA) also reported on Monday that 10 more countries - Antigua and Barbuda, Azerbaijan, Dominica, Ghana, Lebanon, Macau, Pakistan, Qatar, Samoa and Vanuatu, were involved in the exchange of information this year. Watch | In 2015, Swiss bank released list of dormant A/Cs, mostly A/Cs linked to the Indians The exchange took place last month and the next set of information would be shared by Switzerland in September 2022. With this, Switzerland is seeking to reposition itself as a key global financial centre while dispelling the long-standing perception that the Swiss banking system is a safe haven for large amounts of black money. (With inputs from agencies)

India gets third set of Swiss bank details; mostly businessmen, NRIs

India's sleepy town of Thumba in Kerala had caught the attention of Dr Vikram Sarabai who was the father of India's space programme. Sarabai felt the fishing village of Thumba was perfect for India's inaugural rocket launch.

A church was located at the site of the Earth's magnetic equator and if India wanted a glitch-free blast off&nbsp;it needed to secure the perfect launch site. The church's reverend decided to help as he invited the scientists for a Sunday mass and told the villagers about India's space dreams.

After the villagers gave their nod, the reverend handed over the church to the scientists. There were also no labs in Thumba, so cattle sheds were turned into laboratories and storage units. There were also no canteens for the scientists who had to ride to the nearest railway station for their meals.

There was also just one jeep. The payloads and rocket parts were transported on bicycles. India launched its first rocket in 1963 amid several hardships as&nbsp;the country began its space journey.

Within four years India built its own rocket from the experience it gathered in Thumba. The RH-75 was India's first indigenous rocket which was launched in 1967 and by 1975, India had built its own satellite named Aryabhata after the Indian astronomer and launched it from Russia.

In Bangalore, a toilet was converted as the satellite's data receiving centre. Indians came together to celebrate Aryabhata. The satellite's photo was printed on Indian currencies between 1976 and 1997 as Aryabhata&nbsp;made ISRO a household name.

ISRO started in 1962 and was named the Indian national committee for space research, however, in 1969 it was renamed Indian Space Research Organisation(ISRO).

India's love affair with astronomy dated further back in history to the year 499 when Aryabhata began writing on space. There was no paper then, so it was written on a palm leaf. Aryabhata noted that the Earth was round and rotated on its axis.

In 598, Brahmagupt was trying to calculate the circumference of the planet. In 1981 when India was trying to launch its first communication satellite called Apple, scientists needed a metal-free mode of transport to ferry the payload and conduct an antenna test in an open field.

The payload was ready but the challenge was to find a metal-free vehicle. India's legendary jugaad once again came to the rescue as the payload was carried on a bullock cart.

India's space journey has many memorable milestones. In 1984, Indian Air Force pilot Rakesh Sharma became the first Indian to fly to space. He was onboard the former Soviet Union's Soyuz T-11 that went to space.&nbsp;

Rakesh Sharma and the other crew members held a press conference from the skies when Indira Gandhi was the prime minister. Their exchange is etched in the memory of every Indian.

In 2014, India was once again filled with pride after it became only the fourth country in the world to reach Mars. Mangalyaan also became the world's most cost-efficient Mars mission.

The Mangalyan cost India $74 million which is less than what Hollywood spent in the making of the movie "Gravity" which had a budget of $100 million.

Now, India launches foreign satellites from its soil. India has so far launched 342 foreign satellites belonging to 34 countries. The country has also conducted 112 space missions, 82 launch missions and two re-entry missions.

India has also sent 12 student satellites to space.

Thumba is now home to the Vikram Sarabhai space centre. ISRO now has as many as 45 centres around the country with every launch, it brings space exploration closer to the heart of Indians.

Indians stayed up all night tracking Chandrayaan-2. However, the mission did not manage to safely touch down on the Moon. The teary-eyed ISRO chief made Indians more resolute than ever to let nothing come between India and its space dreams.

Dr. K Sivan, Kalpana Chawla and Rakesh Sharma are among India's tallest idols and space now dominates India's popular culture.&nbsp;Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam was ISRO's top scientist who became India's president. &nbsp;

India is now privatising space exploration and supporting innovation while creating newer groups to further India's space journey and looking to build its own space stations as the country looks to create its very own fort in the space age.

India's sleepy town of Thumba in Kerala had caught the attention of Dr Vikram Sarabai who was the father of India's space programme. Sarabai felt the fishing village of Thumba was perfect for India's inaugural rocket launch.

India's sleepy town of Thumba in Kerala had caught the attention of Dr Vikram Sarabai who was the father of India's space programme. Sarabai felt the fishing village of Thumba was perfect for India's inaugural rocket launch. A church was located at the site of the Earth's magnetic equator and if India wanted a glitch-free blast off it needed to secure the perfect launch site. The church's reverend decided to help as he invited the scientists for a Sunday mass and told the villagers about India's space dreams. After the villagers gave their nod, the reverend handed over the church to the scientists. There were also no labs in Thumba, so cattle sheds were turned into laboratories and storage units. There were also no canteens for the scientists who had to ride to the nearest railway station for their meals. There was also just one jeep. The payloads and rocket parts were transported on bicycles. India launched its first rocket in 1963 amid several hardships as the country began its space journey. Within four years India built its own rocket from the experience it gathered in Thumba. The RH-75 was India's first indigenous rocket which was launched in 1967 and by 1975, India had built its own satellite named Aryabhata after the Indian astronomer and launched it from Russia. In Bangalore, a toilet was converted as the satellite's data receiving centre. Indians came together to celebrate Aryabhata. The satellite's photo was printed on Indian currencies between 1976 and 1997 as Aryabhata made ISRO a household name. ISRO started in 1962 and was named the Indian national committee for space research, however, in 1969 it was renamed Indian Space Research Organisation(ISRO). India's love affair with astronomy dated further back in history to the year 499 when Aryabhata began writing on space. There was no paper then, so it was written on a palm leaf. Aryabhata noted that the Earth was round and rotated on its axis. In 598, Brahmagupt was trying to calculate the circumference of the planet. In 1981 when India was trying to launch its first communication satellite called Apple, scientists needed a metal-free mode of transport to ferry the payload and conduct an antenna test in an open field. The payload was ready but the challenge was to find a metal-free vehicle. India's legendary jugaad once again came to the rescue as the payload was carried on a bullock cart. India's space journey has many memorable milestones. In 1984, Indian Air Force pilot Rakesh Sharma became the first Indian to fly to space. He was onboard the former Soviet Union's Soyuz T-11 that went to space. Rakesh Sharma and the other crew members held a press conference from the skies when Indira Gandhi was the prime minister. Their exchange is etched in the memory of every Indian. In 2014, India was once again filled with pride after it became only the fourth country in the world to reach Mars. Mangalyaan also became the world's most cost-efficient Mars mission. The Mangalyan cost India $74 million which is less than what Hollywood spent in the making of the movie "Gravity" which had a budget of $100 million. Now, India launches foreign satellites from its soil. India has so far launched 342 foreign satellites belonging to 34 countries. The country has also conducted 112 space missions, 82 launch missions and two re-entry missions. India has also sent 12 student satellites to space. Thumba is now home to the Vikram Sarabhai space centre. ISRO now has as many as 45 centres around the country with every launch, it brings space exploration closer to the heart of Indians. Indians stayed up all night tracking Chandrayaan-2. However, the mission did not manage to safely touch down on the Moon. The teary-eyed ISRO chief made Indians more resolute than ever to let nothing come between India and its space dreams. Dr. K Sivan, Kalpana Chawla and Rakesh Sharma are among India's tallest idols and space now dominates India's popular culture. Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam was ISRO's top scientist who became India's president. India is now privatising space exploration and supporting innovation while creating newer groups to further India's space journey and looking to build its own space stations as the country looks to create its very own fort in the space age.

How India's space journey transformed the country

After a wave of terrorist attacks against minority populations, security authorities in Jammu and Kashmir apprehended over 700 "terrorist sympathisers."

According to security sources, those seized were over-ground workers (OGWs) with Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), Al-Badr, and The Resistance Front (TRF).

These on-the-ground workers assist dreaded terrorists with logistics.&nbsp; 
 
Watch | Gravitas: Terrorist groups are attempting a revival in Kashmir

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Terrorists killed at least seven civilians in the Kashmir Valley in five days.

Four of those slain were members of minority groups.

Six of the deaths were recorded in Srinagar.

Supinder Kaur, a Sikh from Srinagar, and Chand, a Hindu from Jammu, were slain two days after The Resistance Force, a shadow group of the banned Lashkar-e-Taiba, claimed responsibility for the murders of three people on Tuesday.

According to a senior police official, the assaults may have been fueled by an upsurge in extremism following the Taliban's ascent to power, and the assassins were targeting "easy" targets.

He stated that the terrorists were apprehended to "disrupt the chain of assaults."&nbsp;

While confirming the detentions, one of the top officials of the J&amp;K Police is said to have stated that the move was done to "break the chain of assaults" in the Valley.

He also said that the latest attacks may be the result of a surge in extremism following the Taliban's takeover of Afghanistan.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

After a wave of terrorist attacks against minority populations, security authorities in Jammu and Kashmir apprehended over 700 "terrorist sympathisers." According to security sources, those seized were over-ground workers (OGWs) with Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), Al-Badr, and The Resistance Front (TRF).

After a wave of terrorist attacks against minority populations, security authorities in Jammu and Kashmir apprehended over 700 "terrorist sympathisers." According to security sources, those seized were over-ground workers (OGWs) with Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), Al-Badr, and The Resistance Front (TRF). These on-the-ground workers assist dreaded terrorists with logistics. Watch | Gravitas: Terrorist groups are attempting a revival in Kashmir Terrorists killed at least seven civilians in the Kashmir Valley in five days. Four of those slain were members of minority groups. Six of the deaths were recorded in Srinagar. Supinder Kaur, a Sikh from Srinagar, and Chand, a Hindu from Jammu, were slain two days after The Resistance Force, a shadow group of the banned Lashkar-e-Taiba, claimed responsibility for the murders of three people on Tuesday. According to a senior police official, the assaults may have been fueled by an upsurge in extremism following the Taliban's ascent to power, and the assassins were targeting "easy" targets. He stated that the terrorists were apprehended to "disrupt the chain of assaults." While confirming the detentions, one of the top officials of the J&K Police is said to have stated that the move was done to "break the chain of assaults" in the Valley. He also said that the latest attacks may be the result of a surge in extremism following the Taliban's takeover of Afghanistan. (With inputs from agencies)

J&K: Security forces detain over 700 ‘terrorist sympathisers’ after civilian killings

India on Monday strongly condemned the terrorist attack on a mosque in the northeastern Afghan city of Kunduz during Friday prayers that killed over 100 people and left many injured, and reiterated the importance of combating terrorism in Afghanistan.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) also asserted that India stands committed to the fight against the scourge of terrorism.

According to reports, a suicide bomber carried out the attack when worshippers gathered at the mosque for Friday prayers, killing more than 100 people and injuring many others in the deadliest attack since the US troops left the country.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/mass-funerals-take-place-in-kunduz-a-day-after-mosque-suicide-attack-419422">Also Read:&nbsp;Mass funerals take place in Kunduz a day after mosque suicide attack</a>

"India strongly condemns the terrorist attack on a Shia mosque in Kunduz, Afghanistan in which more than 100 Afghans were reported to have lost lives and several others injured. We extend our condolences and sympathies to the families of the victims during their difficult time," the MEA said in a statement.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/at-least-55-killed-in-afghanistans-kunduz-mosque-blast-taliban-official-419134">Also Read: Several killed in Afghanistan's Kunduz mosque blast</a>

It said India stand with the people of Afghanistan and hoped that perpetrators of the attack would be brought to justice expeditiously. 
"India stands committed in the fight against the scourge of terrorism and reiterates the importance of combating terrorism in Afghanistan," the MEA said.

"We stand with the people of Afghanistan and hope that perpetrators of this attack would be identified and brought to justice expeditiously," the ministry added.&nbsp;

India on Monday strongly condemned the terrorist attack on a mosque in the northeastern Afghan city of Kunduz during Friday prayers that killed over 100 people and left many injured, and reiterated the importance of combating terrorism in Afghanistan.

India on Monday strongly condemned the terrorist attack on a mosque in the northeastern Afghan city of Kunduz during Friday prayers that killed over 100 people and left many injured, and reiterated the importance of combating terrorism in Afghanistan. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) also asserted that India stands committed to the fight against the scourge of terrorism. According to reports, a suicide bomber carried out the attack when worshippers gathered at the mosque for Friday prayers, killing more than 100 people and injuring many others in the deadliest attack since the US troops left the country. Also Read: Mass funerals take place in Kunduz a day after mosque suicide attack "India strongly condemns the terrorist attack on a Shia mosque in Kunduz, Afghanistan in which more than 100 Afghans were reported to have lost lives and several others injured. We extend our condolences and sympathies to the families of the victims during their difficult time," the MEA said in a statement. Also Read: Several killed in Afghanistan's Kunduz mosque blast It said India stand with the people of Afghanistan and hoped that perpetrators of the attack would be brought to justice expeditiously. "India stands committed in the fight against the scourge of terrorism and reiterates the importance of combating terrorism in Afghanistan," the MEA said. "We stand with the people of Afghanistan and hope that perpetrators of this attack would be identified and brought to justice expeditiously," the ministry added.

India condemns terror attack on Kunduz mosque in Afghanistan

Amid reports of Invesco’s bid to take over Zee Entertainment Enterprises Limited (ZEEL), India’s Sadhu Samaj and several religious and social organisations have come forward to express serious reservations on the issue.

The Sadhu Samaj clearly stated that the control of the company should remain with founder Subhash Chandra and his family&nbsp;who have taken care of the numerous television channels for over two decades.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-and-its-laws-wont-let-invesco-illegally-take-over-zeel-dr-subhash-chandra-418719">Also Read |&nbsp;India and its laws won't let Invesco illegally take over ZEEL: Dr Subhash Chandra</a>

The religious body has appealed to the government, the concerned regulatory institutions such as NCLT and NCLAT, Invesco, the media company behind this indirect bid, Subhash Chandra's family, and the Zee shareholders to sit down and find an amicable solution to this issue.

Watch: Dr Chandra questions Invesco's 'real intent' on ZEEL-Sony deal

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It further added that the same Zee management, which has the faith of crores of viewers, should be allowed to continue as it would be in the interest of everyone.“If this does not happen, we all will appeal in the court of the almighty, and pray for the proper judgment,” the group said in a statement.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/zeel-sony-mega-merger-is-invesco-a-puppet-of-chinese-interests-418588">Also Read |&nbsp;ZEEL-Sony mega-merger- Is Invesco a puppet of Chinese interests?</a>

The group alleged that Invesco seems to be working in a non-transparent manner and it is unclear in whose hands the management will go if they are successful in their bid.

The Sadhu Samaj hailed Subhash Chandra’s decades of service to the nation by broadcasting quality programmes and content.

It recalled that it was Zee that broadcast “Jagran” programme that focused on religious content. Only after this, several other programmes and channels were launched which help impart religious content.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/media-propagates-baseless-report-on-zeel-about-nclt-order-heres-the-official-statement-417184">Also Read |&nbsp;Media propagates baseless report on ZEEL about NCLT order; here's the official statement</a>

“In the last 29 years, the country has witnessed how Zee has brought the issues of national and social interest to the viewers,” the religious body said.

Amid reports of Invesco’s bid to take over Zee Entertainment Enterprises Limited (ZEEL), India’s Sadhu Samaj and several religious and social organisations have come forward to express serious reservations on the issue.

Amid reports of Invesco’s bid to take over Zee Entertainment Enterprises Limited (ZEEL), India’s Sadhu Samaj and several religious and social organisations have come forward to express serious reservations on the issue. The Sadhu Samaj clearly stated that the control of the company should remain with founder Subhash Chandra and his family who have taken care of the numerous television channels for over two decades. Also Read | India and its laws won't let Invesco illegally take over ZEEL: Dr Subhash Chandra The religious body has appealed to the government, the concerned regulatory institutions such as NCLT and NCLAT, Invesco, the media company behind this indirect bid, Subhash Chandra's family, and the Zee shareholders to sit down and find an amicable solution to this issue. Watch: Dr Chandra questions Invesco's 'real intent' on ZEEL-Sony deal It further added that the same Zee management, which has the faith of crores of viewers, should be allowed to continue as it would be in the interest of everyone.“If this does not happen, we all will appeal in the court of the almighty, and pray for the proper judgment,” the group said in a statement. Also Read | ZEEL-Sony mega-merger- Is Invesco a puppet of Chinese interests? The group alleged that Invesco seems to be working in a non-transparent manner and it is unclear in whose hands the management will go if they are successful in their bid. The Sadhu Samaj hailed Subhash Chandra’s decades of service to the nation by broadcasting quality programmes and content. It recalled that it was Zee that broadcast “Jagran” programme that focused on religious content. Only after this, several other programmes and channels were launched which help impart religious content. Also Read | Media propagates baseless report on ZEEL about NCLT order; here's the official statement “In the last 29 years, the country has witnessed how Zee has brought the issues of national and social interest to the viewers,” the religious body said.

Sadhu Samaj slams Invesco's takeover bid of ZEEL

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