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On Wednesday, a 19-year-old Pakistani terrorist arrested by the Indian Army during an operation in Jammu and Kashmir's Uri Sector on September 26 was shown to the media, where he admitted that he was paid Rs 20,000 by his Pakistani handlers to cross over to India for arms supplies.

In the video, the teen terrorist pleads with his Pakistani handlers to take him back to his mother, the way he was sent to India. He can be seen sitting in a chair with two microphones and a tall glass of tea. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/there-is-peace-in-kashmir-pakistan-army-misguides-us-says-arrested-teenage-terrorist-416810">Also read | There is peace in Kashmir, Pakistan Army misguides us, says arrested teenage terrorist</a> 
 
The picture of tea kept near the terrorist, while he was speaking to the media, has elicited hilarious reactions on Twitter, with users trolling Pakistan Army by asking "How's the tea?" 
 
The back story goes back to February 2019, when Indian Air Force Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman was captured by Pakistani authorities, a day after the Balakot airstrikes.

At the time, Pakistani Twitter was abuzz with "Tea is fantastic" comments, a reference to the IAF pilot's reaction when he was asked how the tea served to him was.

Here's a look at some of the Twitter reactions: 
&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Pakistani?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Pakistani</a> terrorist Ali Babar, trained by the Pakistani army, gets caught by <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Indian?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Indian</a> security forces. 
 
Now don't tell me that you crossed the border just to get a taste of tea... 
 
Hows the tea now?? <a href="https://t.co/v1ko426Pgo">pic.twitter.com/v1ko426Pgo</a>
— Abhishek Singhvi (@DrAMSinghvi) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrAMSinghvi/status/1443192849466421256?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 29, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Indian army placed a full glass of tea in front of captured pakistani terrorist!! SAVAGE 😂😂😂 
Tea is fantastic <a href="https://t.co/LVLHpbHHqF">pic.twitter.com/LVLHpbHHqF</a>
— Sidd Bhardwaj (@_siddbhardwaj) <a href="https://twitter.com/_siddbhardwaj/status/1443182010126594054?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 29, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Keep sending terrorists 🤣 Good luck !! We will show how Indian tea tastes to them !! <a href="https://t.co/EZhYEPL9kd">pic.twitter.com/EZhYEPL9kd</a>
— Gowtham Kanna (@GowthamKanna1) <a href="https://twitter.com/GowthamKanna1/status/1443201393301458949?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 29, 2021</a></blockquote>
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our neighbour <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Pakistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Pakistan</a> Trained a <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/pakistanistaliban?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#pakistanistaliban</a> terrorist to attack on india named Ali Babar, gets caught by <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Indian?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Indian</a> security forces. 
 
Now don't tell us that you crossed the border just to taste <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> special tea. 
 
One Question How's the tea now ?? <a href="https://t.co/ljS1RQigYS">pic.twitter.com/ljS1RQigYS</a>
— National Thoughts (@Nationalthoughs) <a href="https://twitter.com/Nationalthoughs/status/1443195252974624771?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 29, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Ali Babar Patra also said that the Pakistan Army, the ISI and the LeT were spreading lies about the situation in Kashmir. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

On Wednesday, a 19-year-old Pakistani terrorist arrested by the Indian Army during an operation in Jammu and Kashmir's Uri Sector on September 26 was shown to the media, where he admitted that he was paid Rs 20,000 by his Pakistani handlers to cross over to India for arms supplies.

On Wednesday, a 19-year-old Pakistani terrorist arrested by the Indian Army during an operation in Jammu and Kashmir's Uri Sector on September 26 was shown to the media, where he admitted that he was paid Rs 20,000 by his Pakistani handlers to cross over to India for arms supplies. In the video, the teen terrorist pleads with his Pakistani handlers to take him back to his mother, the way he was sent to India. He can be seen sitting in a chair with two microphones and a tall glass of tea. Also read | There is peace in Kashmir, Pakistan Army misguides us, says arrested teenage terrorist The picture of tea kept near the terrorist, while he was speaking to the media, has elicited hilarious reactions on Twitter, with users trolling Pakistan Army by asking "How's the tea?" The back story goes back to February 2019, when Indian Air Force Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman was captured by Pakistani authorities, a day after the Balakot airstrikes. At the time, Pakistani Twitter was abuzz with "Tea is fantastic" comments, a reference to the IAF pilot's reaction when he was asked how the tea served to him was. Here's a look at some of the Twitter reactions: #Pakistani terrorist Ali Babar, trained by the Pakistani army, gets caught by #Indian security forces. Now don't tell me that you crossed the border just to get a taste of tea... Hows the tea now?? pic.twitter.com/v1ko426Pgo — Abhishek Singhvi (@DrAMSinghvi) September 29, 2021 × Indian army placed a full glass of tea in front of captured pakistani terrorist!! SAVAGE 😂😂😂 Tea is fantastic pic.twitter.com/LVLHpbHHqF — Sidd Bhardwaj (@_siddbhardwaj) September 29, 2021 × Keep sending terrorists 🤣 Good luck !! We will show how Indian tea tastes to them !! pic.twitter.com/EZhYEPL9kd — Gowtham Kanna (@GowthamKanna1) September 29, 2021 × our neighbour #Pakistan Trained a #pakistanistaliban terrorist to attack on india named Ali Babar, gets caught by #Indian security forces. Now don't tell us that you crossed the border just to taste @narendramodi special tea. One Question How's the tea now ?? pic.twitter.com/ljS1RQigYS — National Thoughts (@Nationalthoughs) September 29, 2021 × Ali Babar Patra also said that the Pakistan Army, the ISI and the LeT were spreading lies about the situation in Kashmir. (With inputs from agencies)

How is the tea? Internet wonders if India trolled Pakistan by giving tea to captured terrorist

Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi on Wednesday reached out to a miffed Navjot Singh Sidhu and offered to resolve issues through talks, a day after the former cricketer resigned as the Punjab Congress chief.

Channi also said the party is supreme and the government follows the party's ideology.

"I have spoken to Sidhu sahab over the telephone today. Party is supreme and the government accepts the party's ideology and follows that. (I told him that) you should come, sit and talk,&nbsp;he told reporters on the sidelines of a cabinet meeting.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ousted-punjab-cm-amarinder-singh-meets-home-minister-bjp-leader-shah-sparks-defection-rumours-416855">Ousted Punjab CM Amarinder Singh meets home minister &amp; BJP leader Shah, sparks defection rumours</a>

"The (state) president is the head of the party. The head has to sit among the family," he said, adding that Sidhu had agreed to meet.

Sidhu, who had abruptly put in his papers plunging the Congress into a fresh crisis, on Wednesday broke his silence, questioning the appointments of the director-general of police, state's advocate general and tainted leaders.

Channi, however, defended the appointments, saying he had acted on the basis of feedback from the party members.

I have no objection or any ego in anything,&nbsp;he said, indicating that he was ready to review the decisions.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/minister-in-indias-punjab-quits-after-navjot-sidhu-resigns-as-state-congress-chief-416667">Minister in India's Punjab quits after Navjot Sidhu resigns as state Congress chief</a>

Asked what was Sidhu's response to his offer to talk it out, Channi said that Sidhu told him that he would give the time for the meeting.

"We will sit with him and talk," he said.

To a question, Channi said Minister Pargat Singh and some other leaders went to meet Sidhu.

Asked if Sidhu had done the right thing, Channi said he could not comment on it.

I will never deviate from the issues of the people of Punjab,&nbsp;he asserted.

He said, Whatever feedback we got from colleagues and others and whosoever can be appointed, we appointed. But the decisions will be taken according to the will of the people of Punjab.

Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi on Wednesday reached out to a miffed Navjot Singh Sidhu and offered to resolve issues through talks, a day after the former cricketer resigned as the Punjab Congress chief.

Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi on Wednesday reached out to a miffed Navjot Singh Sidhu and offered to resolve issues through talks, a day after the former cricketer resigned as the Punjab Congress chief. Channi also said the party is supreme and the government follows the party's ideology. "I have spoken to Sidhu sahab over the telephone today. Party is supreme and the government accepts the party's ideology and follows that. (I told him that) you should come, sit and talk, he told reporters on the sidelines of a cabinet meeting. Also read | Ousted Punjab CM Amarinder Singh meets home minister & BJP leader Shah, sparks defection rumours "The (state) president is the head of the party. The head has to sit among the family," he said, adding that Sidhu had agreed to meet. Sidhu, who had abruptly put in his papers plunging the Congress into a fresh crisis, on Wednesday broke his silence, questioning the appointments of the director-general of police, state's advocate general and tainted leaders. Channi, however, defended the appointments, saying he had acted on the basis of feedback from the party members. I have no objection or any ego in anything, he said, indicating that he was ready to review the decisions. Also read | Minister in India's Punjab quits after Navjot Sidhu resigns as state Congress chief Asked what was Sidhu's response to his offer to talk it out, Channi said that Sidhu told him that he would give the time for the meeting. "We will sit with him and talk," he said. To a question, Channi said Minister Pargat Singh and some other leaders went to meet Sidhu. Asked if Sidhu had done the right thing, Channi said he could not comment on it. I will never deviate from the issues of the people of Punjab, he asserted. He said, Whatever feedback we got from colleagues and others and whosoever can be appointed, we appointed. But the decisions will be taken according to the will of the people of Punjab.

Punjab CM Channi reaches out to Sidhu, offers to talk it out

Amarinder Singh, who recently resigned from the post of India's Punjab&nbsp;state chief minister, met the country’s home minister Amit Shah at his residence in the national capital Delhi on Wednesday, triggering speculations of him ditching the Congress party and joining the rival Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

According to reports, Singh visited Shah to discuss the prevailing security scenario in the border state of Punjab and the ongoing farmers’ agitation.&nbsp;This is the first meeting between the two leaders after Amarinder resigned from the chief minister's post.&nbsp;

Amarinder had reached Delhi on Tuesday, saying that he was on a personal visit.

“I am here to vacate Kapurthala House (the official residence of Punjab Chief Minister in Delhi). I am not going to meet any politician here,” he told reporters.

His media advisor Raveen Thukral had said that “too much being read into Captain Amarinder’s visit to Delhi”.

Earlier this month, Amarinder stepped down from as the Punjab Chief Minister a year ahead of elections, after a long and bitter feud with detractors, including cricketer-turned-politician Navjot Singh Sidhu, who was elevated by the Gandhis to the post of the party chief.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-punjab-minister-quits-after-navjot-sidhu-resigns-as-state-congress-chief-416667">India's Punjab minister quits after Navjot Sidhu resigns as state Congress chief</a>

While stepping down as chief minister, Amarinder had slammed the party leadership saying he had been let down.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/a-day-after-bitter-power-tussle-indias-northern-punjab-state-gets-new-cm-414241">A day after bitter power tussle, India's northern Punjab state gets new CM</a>

The former chief minister further said he felt “humiliated”, adding that he had been summoned thrice by the central leadership in the past two months.

However, it was Amarinder who had the last laugh after Sidhu resigned as the Congress’ Punjab unit president.

“I told you so...he is not a stable man and not fit for the border state of Punjab,” Amarinder had said in a tweet.

(With inputs from agencies)

Amarinder Singh, who recently resigned from the post of India's Punjab state chief minister, met the country’s home minister Amit Shah at his residence in the national capital Delhi on Wednesday, triggering speculations of him ditching the Congress party and joining the rival Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Amarinder Singh, who recently resigned from the post of India's Punjab state chief minister, met the country’s home minister Amit Shah at his residence in the national capital Delhi on Wednesday, triggering speculations of him ditching the Congress party and joining the rival Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). According to reports, Singh visited Shah to discuss the prevailing security scenario in the border state of Punjab and the ongoing farmers’ agitation. This is the first meeting between the two leaders after Amarinder resigned from the chief minister's post. Amarinder had reached Delhi on Tuesday, saying that he was on a personal visit. “I am here to vacate Kapurthala House (the official residence of Punjab Chief Minister in Delhi). I am not going to meet any politician here,” he told reporters. His media advisor Raveen Thukral had said that “too much being read into Captain Amarinder’s visit to Delhi”. Earlier this month, Amarinder stepped down from as the Punjab Chief Minister a year ahead of elections, after a long and bitter feud with detractors, including cricketer-turned-politician Navjot Singh Sidhu, who was elevated by the Gandhis to the post of the party chief. Also read | India's Punjab minister quits after Navjot Sidhu resigns as state Congress chief While stepping down as chief minister, Amarinder had slammed the party leadership saying he had been let down. Also read | A day after bitter power tussle, India's northern Punjab state gets new CM The former chief minister further said he felt “humiliated”, adding that he had been summoned thrice by the central leadership in the past two months. However, it was Amarinder who had the last laugh after Sidhu resigned as the Congress’ Punjab unit president. “I told you so...he is not a stable man and not fit for the border state of Punjab,” Amarinder had said in a tweet. (With inputs from agencies)

Ousted Punjab CM Amarinder Singh meets home minister & BJP leader Shah, sparks defection rumours

Razia Sultana put in her papers as the Punjab Cabinet minister in "solidarity" with Navjot Singh Sidhu, who resigned from the post of the state Congress chief on Tuesday.

Sultana is considered close to Sidhu and her husband Mohd Mustafa, a former IPS officer, is a principal strategic adviser to the Congress leader.

In her resignation letter to Punjab Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi, the minister said, "I, Razia Sultana, hereby resign as cabinet minister, Punjab, in solidarity with Navjot Singh Sidhu, PPCC president, and millions of Congress workers across the state."

"I will continue to work for the party as a worker in the best interest of Punjab. My heartfelt thanks to Sonia Gandhiji, hon'ble Congress president, and Rahul Gandhiji for their countless blessings on me and my family in our hours of need," she said in her resignation letter.

Mustafa shared the resignation of his wife on his Twitter handle.

"So proud of my wife Razia Sultana for her principled decision to resign in the best interest of Cong and its leadership, in particular Rahul Gandhi our benefactor," tweeted Mustafa.

Both Mustafa and Sultana went to Patiala to meet Sidhu at his residence there.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sonia-gandhi-appoints-navjot-singh-sidhu-as-chief-of-punjab-congress-398928">&nbsp;Sonia Gandhi appoints Navjot Singh Sidhu as Chief of Punjab Congress</a>

Sidhu on Tuesday resigned as the chief of the Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee, plunging the party into a fresh crisis just months ahead of the assembly elections in the state.

Sidhu quit the post shortly after the allocation of portfolios to members of the new state Cabinet.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/punjab-chief-minister-amarinder-singh-opposes-challenge-to-gandhi-family-leadership-322589">Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh opposes challenge to Gandhi family leadership</a>

In a letter to Congress president Sonia Gandhi, he said he will continue to serve the party.

Sidhu had taken over as the state party chief in July amid a bitter power tussle with Amarinder Singh, who stepped down as CM 10 days back while accusing the party high command of humiliating him.

The Charanjit Singh Channi-led government in Punjab on Tuesday allotted portfolios to all ministers in the state, two days after 15 ministers were inducted.

Sultana has been allotted departments of water supply and sanitation, social security, women and child development and printing and stationery.

Earlier, she held the charge of the transport department in the Amarinder Singh-led government.

Razia Sultana put in her papers as the Punjab Cabinet minister in "solidarity" with Navjot Singh Sidhu, who resigned from the post of the state Congress chief on Tuesday.

Razia Sultana put in her papers as the Punjab Cabinet minister in "solidarity" with Navjot Singh Sidhu, who resigned from the post of the state Congress chief on Tuesday. Sultana is considered close to Sidhu and her husband Mohd Mustafa, a former IPS officer, is a principal strategic adviser to the Congress leader. In her resignation letter to Punjab Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi, the minister said, "I, Razia Sultana, hereby resign as cabinet minister, Punjab, in solidarity with Navjot Singh Sidhu, PPCC president, and millions of Congress workers across the state." "I will continue to work for the party as a worker in the best interest of Punjab. My heartfelt thanks to Sonia Gandhiji, hon'ble Congress president, and Rahul Gandhiji for their countless blessings on me and my family in our hours of need," she said in her resignation letter. Mustafa shared the resignation of his wife on his Twitter handle. "So proud of my wife Razia Sultana for her principled decision to resign in the best interest of Cong and its leadership, in particular Rahul Gandhi our benefactor," tweeted Mustafa. Both Mustafa and Sultana went to Patiala to meet Sidhu at his residence there. Also read | Sonia Gandhi appoints Navjot Singh Sidhu as Chief of Punjab Congress Sidhu on Tuesday resigned as the chief of the Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee, plunging the party into a fresh crisis just months ahead of the assembly elections in the state. Sidhu quit the post shortly after the allocation of portfolios to members of the new state Cabinet. Also read | Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh opposes challenge to Gandhi family leadership In a letter to Congress president Sonia Gandhi, he said he will continue to serve the party. Sidhu had taken over as the state party chief in July amid a bitter power tussle with Amarinder Singh, who stepped down as CM 10 days back while accusing the party high command of humiliating him. The Charanjit Singh Channi-led government in Punjab on Tuesday allotted portfolios to all ministers in the state, two days after 15 ministers were inducted. Sultana has been allotted departments of water supply and sanitation, social security, women and child development and printing and stationery. Earlier, she held the charge of the transport department in the Amarinder Singh-led government.

Minister in India's Punjab quits after Navjot Sidhu resigns as state Congress chief

Some of India's private hospitals have cancelled orders for Russia's Sputnik V vaccine as they struggle to sell COVID-19 shots amid surging supplies of free doses of other vaccines offered by the government.

Industry officials said low demand and the extremely cold storage temperatures required have spurred at least three big hospitals to cancel orders for Sputnik V, sold only on the private market in the world's biggest vaccine-producing country.

"With storage and everything, we have cancelled our order for 2,500 doses," said Jitendra Oswal, a senior medical official at Bharati Vidyapeeth Medical College and Hospital in the western city of Pune.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/can-vitamin-a-help-in-treating-covid-resulted-loss-of-smell-experts-answer-416845">Can Vitamin A help in treating Covid-resulted loss of smell? Experts answer</a>

"Demand is also not great. There is a class of people, barely 1%, that wanted to go for Sputnik. For the rest, anything would do."

From May until last week, private hospitals accounted for just about six&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;of all vaccines administered in India, although the government had freed them to buy up to a quarter of domestic output, health ministry data show.

India is set to become a major production centre of Sputnik V, with planned capacity of about 850 million shots a year, and low domestic uptake could mean higher exports instead, a step backers are already pushing for&nbsp;Indian companies have already started making Sputnik doses.

The health ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Since a June launch event by Indian distributor Dr. Reddy`s Laboratories Ltd, only 943,000 doses of Sputnik V have been administered by hospitals, a fraction of the national total of more than 876 million.

Dr. Reddy`s, which has imported about 3 million doses of the vaccine from Russia and refunded hospitals for cancelled orders, declined to comment. 
Its partner the Russian Direct Investment Fund, which markets Sputnik V internationally, also declined to comment.

Cheaper, easier alternatives

The mainstay of India's inoculation drive is the AstraZeneca vaccine, which can be stored in regular refrigerators, unlike Sputnik V, which needs temperatures of -18 degrees Celsius (-0.4°F), impossible to guarantee in most of India.

The vaccine is also as much as 47 per cent&nbsp;more expensive than AstraZeneca on the private market.

Avis Hospitals, which runs eight vaccination centres in the southern city of Hyderabad, has also cancelled an order for 10,000 Sputnik V doses, said a source with direct knowledge of the matter who sought anonymity in discussing business matters. Avis did not respond to an email seeking comment.

Another Pune hospital, which declined to be identified, said it had also cancelled its Sputnik V orders. Sputnik V is just one of the vaccines suffering from a sharp fall in private sales.

Pune's Bharati hospital will end its COVID-19 vaccination programme when it runs out of AstraZeneca doses, as daily inoculations have fallen about 90&nbsp;per cent to 100 from their June levels, Oswal said.

Just 9,000 doses remain of stocks of 62,000 it ordered.

Avis's COVID-19 vaccine sales have shrunk 40 per cent with existing stocks expected to last until December, instead of October, said the source.

India's monthly production of vaccine, mainly of the AstraZeneca shot known domestically as Covishield, has quadrupled to 300 million doses from April, when a dramatic surge in infections and deaths prompted a halt in exports.

Overseas sales are to resume&nbsp;in October.

Covishield accounts for 88&nbsp;per cent of India's inoculations, followed by Bharat Biotech`s domestically developed Covaxin. Both are administered for free at government centres since mid-January. 
&nbsp;

Some of India's private hospitals have cancelled orders for Russia's Sputnik V vaccine as they struggle to sell COVID-19 shots amid surging supplies of free doses of other vaccines offered by the government.

Some of India's private hospitals have cancelled orders for Russia's Sputnik V vaccine as they struggle to sell COVID-19 shots amid surging supplies of free doses of other vaccines offered by the government. Industry officials said low demand and the extremely cold storage temperatures required have spurred at least three big hospitals to cancel orders for Sputnik V, sold only on the private market in the world's biggest vaccine-producing country. "With storage and everything, we have cancelled our order for 2,500 doses," said Jitendra Oswal, a senior medical official at Bharati Vidyapeeth Medical College and Hospital in the western city of Pune. Also read | Can Vitamin A help in treating Covid-resulted loss of smell? Experts answer "Demand is also not great. There is a class of people, barely 1%, that wanted to go for Sputnik. For the rest, anything would do." From May until last week, private hospitals accounted for just about six per cent of all vaccines administered in India, although the government had freed them to buy up to a quarter of domestic output, health ministry data show. India is set to become a major production centre of Sputnik V, with planned capacity of about 850 million shots a year, and low domestic uptake could mean higher exports instead, a step backers are already pushing for Indian companies have already started making Sputnik doses. The health ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Since a June launch event by Indian distributor Dr. Reddy`s Laboratories Ltd, only 943,000 doses of Sputnik V have been administered by hospitals, a fraction of the national total of more than 876 million. Dr. Reddy`s, which has imported about 3 million doses of the vaccine from Russia and refunded hospitals for cancelled orders, declined to comment. Its partner the Russian Direct Investment Fund, which markets Sputnik V internationally, also declined to comment. Cheaper, easier alternatives The mainstay of India's inoculation drive is the AstraZeneca vaccine, which can be stored in regular refrigerators, unlike Sputnik V, which needs temperatures of -18 degrees Celsius (-0.4°F), impossible to guarantee in most of India. The vaccine is also as much as 47 per cent more expensive than AstraZeneca on the private market. Avis Hospitals, which runs eight vaccination centres in the southern city of Hyderabad, has also cancelled an order for 10,000 Sputnik V doses, said a source with direct knowledge of the matter who sought anonymity in discussing business matters. Avis did not respond to an email seeking comment. Another Pune hospital, which declined to be identified, said it had also cancelled its Sputnik V orders. Sputnik V is just one of the vaccines suffering from a sharp fall in private sales. Pune's Bharati hospital will end its COVID-19 vaccination programme when it runs out of AstraZeneca doses, as daily inoculations have fallen about 90 per cent to 100 from their June levels, Oswal said. Just 9,000 doses remain of stocks of 62,000 it ordered. Avis's COVID-19 vaccine sales have shrunk 40 per cent with existing stocks expected to last until December, instead of October, said the source. India's monthly production of vaccine, mainly of the AstraZeneca shot known domestically as Covishield, has quadrupled to 300 million doses from April, when a dramatic surge in infections and deaths prompted a halt in exports. Overseas sales are to resume in October. Covishield accounts for 88 per cent of India's inoculations, followed by Bharat Biotech`s domestically developed Covaxin. Both are administered for free at government centres since mid-January.

Staggering private sales of Covid vaccines in India deal blow to Russia's Sputnik V

Air India has asked a New York court to dismiss a petition filed by Britain's Cairn Energy for seizure of its assets to enforce USD 1.2 billion arbitral awards against the Indian government, saying the litigation was premature as an appeal against the arbitration award was still pending.

The petition by the airline, which is separate to Indian government's plea in a Washington court seeking dismissal of Cairn's lawsuit to seek confirmation of the arbitral award, said the New York district court lacks jurisdiction to adjudicate a "mere hypothetical question" or one that depends upon contingent future events that may or may not occur.

Cairn first moved a court in the US District Court for the District of Columbia seeking confirmation of the arbitration award and then filed a petition in the New York court to seek declaration of Air India as "alter ego" of the Indian government and so it should be made liable to pay the USD 1.26 billion arbitral award.

An international arbitration tribunal in December last year set aside the levy of capital gains tax, using a 2012 retrospective legislation, on a 2006 reorganization of India business that Cairn carried before listing it on local stock exchanges. It ordered India to return the value of shares seized and sold, dividend confiscated and tax refund withheld to enforce levy. 
With India refusing to pay, Cairn moved courts in the US.

"Cairn's petition to confirm the Award is pending in the District Court for the District of Columbia," Air India said in the August 23 petition seen by PTI.

It went on to state that the Indian government has filed before a court in The Hague -- the seat of the international arbitration tribunal -- a Motion to Stay and a Motion to Dismiss the arbitral award.

"In effect, the Complaint (by Cairn Energy) is a premature enforcement action dressed up as a declaratory judgment action, invoking this Court's federal jurisdiction to get a head start on executing the Award before the D.D.C. Has had the opportunity to address the Republic of India's immunity defenses and its claims that the Award is not subject to enforcement under the New York Convention," Air India said.

"Such an attempt is improper, and the Complaint should be dismissed."

It sought dismissal on three counts - first because the court lacks jurisdiction "to issue a declaratory judgment because the alleged controversy is not ripe", second "Air India is immune from suit because none of the exceptions to sovereign immunity under the Foreign Sovereign Immunities Act (FSIA) applies to a premature collection proceeding of a hypothetical judgment, and third "the Complaint, which presupposes an enforceable judgment that does not exist, fails to allege a cognizable cause of action."

The Indian government had earlier this month asked the US District Court for the District of Columbia (DDC) to dismiss the case, arguing that it lacks jurisdiction since the country never agreed to arbitrate tax disputes. Meanwhile, litigation filed by New Delhi in the Netherlands to have the award set aside also remains pending.

"Cairn asks this court to issue a declaration that Air India, as alleged alter ego of [India], will be liable on a judgment that does not, and may never, exist," the airline said in the August 23 petition.

"Unless and until the court in the Cairn confirmation action determines the threshold question of the enforceability of the award against (India), whether Cairn can then enforce that judgment against Air India under an alter ego theory is purely academic and not ripe for adjudication."

This comes within weeks of the government enacting a legislation to scrap the tax rule that gave the tax department power to go 50 years back and slap capital gains levies wherever ownership had changed hands overseas, but business assets were in India. That rule had been used to levy a cumulative of Rs 1.10 lakh crore of tax on 17 entities, including Rs 10,247 crore on Cairn.

The Indian government and Air India are defending their positions as rules for withdrawal of such tax demands are in the process of being framed.

"One of the requirements for the dropping of the retrospective tax demands is that the parties concerned have to give an undertaking for withdrawal of all cases against the government/tax department. So, while all this is in process, the government is obligated to respond in any legal matter where there is a time bar for doing so," an official explained. 
The government in the dismissal motion filed on August 13 before DCC, cited protections afforded by the US Foreign Sovereign Immunities Act of 1976.

India in the filing said the court "lacks subject-matter jurisdiction under the FSIA because India never waived its sovereign immunity and, likewise, never offered - let alone agreed - to arbitrate the present dispute with Petitioners".

"India also never "clearly and unmistakably" excluded judicial review or delegated exclusive competence to decide these questions to an arbitral tribunal", implying that Cairn couldn't satisfy any exception to sovereign immunity under the US law, the filing said. 
&nbsp;

Air India has asked a New York court to dismiss a petition filed by Britain's Cairn Energy for seizure of its assets to enforce USD 1.2 billion arbitral awards against the Indian government, saying the litigation was premature as an appeal against the arbitration award was still pending.

Air India has asked a New York court to dismiss a petition filed by Britain's Cairn Energy for seizure of its assets to enforce USD 1.2 billion arbitral awards against the Indian government, saying the litigation was premature as an appeal against the arbitration award was still pending. The petition by the airline, which is separate to Indian government's plea in a Washington court seeking dismissal of Cairn's lawsuit to seek confirmation of the arbitral award, said the New York district court lacks jurisdiction to adjudicate a "mere hypothetical question" or one that depends upon contingent future events that may or may not occur. Cairn first moved a court in the US District Court for the District of Columbia seeking confirmation of the arbitration award and then filed a petition in the New York court to seek declaration of Air India as "alter ego" of the Indian government and so it should be made liable to pay the USD 1.26 billion arbitral award. An international arbitration tribunal in December last year set aside the levy of capital gains tax, using a 2012 retrospective legislation, on a 2006 reorganization of India business that Cairn carried before listing it on local stock exchanges. It ordered India to return the value of shares seized and sold, dividend confiscated and tax refund withheld to enforce levy. With India refusing to pay, Cairn moved courts in the US. "Cairn's petition to confirm the Award is pending in the District Court for the District of Columbia," Air India said in the August 23 petition seen by PTI. It went on to state that the Indian government has filed before a court in The Hague -- the seat of the international arbitration tribunal -- a Motion to Stay and a Motion to Dismiss the arbitral award. "In effect, the Complaint (by Cairn Energy) is a premature enforcement action dressed up as a declaratory judgment action, invoking this Court's federal jurisdiction to get a head start on executing the Award before the D.D.C. Has had the opportunity to address the Republic of India's immunity defenses and its claims that the Award is not subject to enforcement under the New York Convention," Air India said. "Such an attempt is improper, and the Complaint should be dismissed." It sought dismissal on three counts - first because the court lacks jurisdiction "to issue a declaratory judgment because the alleged controversy is not ripe", second "Air India is immune from suit because none of the exceptions to sovereign immunity under the Foreign Sovereign Immunities Act (FSIA) applies to a premature collection proceeding of a hypothetical judgment, and third "the Complaint, which presupposes an enforceable judgment that does not exist, fails to allege a cognizable cause of action." The Indian government had earlier this month asked the US District Court for the District of Columbia (DDC) to dismiss the case, arguing that it lacks jurisdiction since the country never agreed to arbitrate tax disputes. Meanwhile, litigation filed by New Delhi in the Netherlands to have the award set aside also remains pending. "Cairn asks this court to issue a declaration that Air India, as alleged alter ego of [India], will be liable on a judgment that does not, and may never, exist," the airline said in the August 23 petition. "Unless and until the court in the Cairn confirmation action determines the threshold question of the enforceability of the award against (India), whether Cairn can then enforce that judgment against Air India under an alter ego theory is purely academic and not ripe for adjudication." This comes within weeks of the government enacting a legislation to scrap the tax rule that gave the tax department power to go 50 years back and slap capital gains levies wherever ownership had changed hands overseas, but business assets were in India. That rule had been used to levy a cumulative of Rs 1.10 lakh crore of tax on 17 entities, including Rs 10,247 crore on Cairn. The Indian government and Air India are defending their positions as rules for withdrawal of such tax demands are in the process of being framed. "One of the requirements for the dropping of the retrospective tax demands is that the parties concerned have to give an undertaking for withdrawal of all cases against the government/tax department. So, while all this is in process, the government is obligated to respond in any legal matter where there is a time bar for doing so," an official explained. The government in the dismissal motion filed on August 13 before DCC, cited protections afforded by the US Foreign Sovereign Immunities Act of 1976. India in the filing said the court "lacks subject-matter jurisdiction under the FSIA because India never waived its sovereign immunity and, likewise, never offered - let alone agreed - to arbitrate the present dispute with Petitioners". "India also never "clearly and unmistakably" excluded judicial review or delegated exclusive competence to decide these questions to an arbitral tribunal", implying that Cairn couldn't satisfy any exception to sovereign immunity under the US law, the filing said.

Air India asks US court to dismiss Cairn petition,says it is premature

&nbsp;A six-month-old injured male tiger that was spotted roaming alone in private tea estates near a hill station in India’s southern Tamil Nadu state was rescued by forest staff on Wednesday.&nbsp;

The officials from the forest department at the Anaimalai Tiger Reserve (ATR), Tamil Nadu, said the sightings of a lone tiger cub in the area was a “rare occurrence”, as the young ones are usually spotted with their mothers.&nbsp;

Ever since it was spotted two days ago, the forest staff had been tracking the weak-appearing cub, until they lost track of it owing to heavy rains and poor visibility in Valparai area, Coimbatore.&nbsp;

Field director and conservator of forest, ATR, Ramasubramanian told Zee that the cub was initially spotted about two days ago by forest staff who were on routine rounds, following which the animal was being tracked.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“We had set up a team of vets from Tirunelveli and technical experts according to the guidance issued by the National Tiger Conservation Authority Guidelines for capture. Cages and tranquillizer darts were also kept ready, and we formed four teams. We spent hours combing the area where the tiger cub was last spotted. Later, a few tea estate workers informed us that the cub had taken refuge in an abandoned building in their premises, following which we tacked the tiger,” Ramasubramanian said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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6-month old, injured male tiger cub captured by TN forest dept in Anaimalai Tiger reserve(ATR). Cub bore injuries caused by porcupine 
 
Officials say, cub has been provided treatment, fed milk&amp;meat and is doing well 
 
ATR is home to 25tigers, forest dept looking for cub's family <a href="https://t.co/zmPW7vPYIi">pic.twitter.com/zmPW7vPYIi</a>
— Sidharth M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1443155806543745025?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 29, 2021</a></blockquote>
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After the mammoth effort of 150 personnel in clearing the bushes and conducting searches amid the heavy rain, the cub was finally captured late on Tuesday night. &nbsp;

Owing to its weak condition and the risks involved in using a tranquillizer, the forest department staff and experts caught the tiger cub in a net and covered its eyes and face (to prevent it from behaving aggressively) and move the cub to a treatment facility in Rottikadai, nearly 10 kilometres from the captured area in Valparai.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Examination by the veterinarians revealed that the cub was injured by porcupine quills and the tiger’s faeces indicated that the big cat had eaten a porcupine. &nbsp;

The forest official said the feline would later be released into the woods after it recovers completely.&nbsp;

“The decision to release the cub or keep it under captivity is to be taken by the NTCA and the Chief Wildlife Warden of Tamil Nadu, after the cub completes close to a week under observation” Ramasubramanian added. &nbsp;

Asked about the whereabouts of the cub’s mother and siblings, he replied that forest staff are looking into whether the cub was abandoned or got lost. &nbsp;

The Anaimalai tiger reserve in Tamil Nadu is home to about 25 tigers and the region where the cub was captured is home to anywhere between 7-10 tigers. &nbsp;

The ATR spans across parts of Coimbatore, Tirupur and Dindigul districts of Tamil Nadu.&nbsp;&nbsp;

A six-month-old injured male tiger that was spotted roaming alone in private tea estates near a hill station in India’s southern Tamil Nadu state was rescued by forest staff on Wednesday.

A six-month-old injured male tiger that was spotted roaming alone in private tea estates near a hill station in India’s southern Tamil Nadu state was rescued by forest staff on Wednesday. The officials from the forest department at the Anaimalai Tiger Reserve (ATR), Tamil Nadu, said the sightings of a lone tiger cub in the area was a “rare occurrence”, as the young ones are usually spotted with their mothers. Ever since it was spotted two days ago, the forest staff had been tracking the weak-appearing cub, until they lost track of it owing to heavy rains and poor visibility in Valparai area, Coimbatore. Field director and conservator of forest, ATR, Ramasubramanian told Zee that the cub was initially spotted about two days ago by forest staff who were on routine rounds, following which the animal was being tracked. “We had set up a team of vets from Tirunelveli and technical experts according to the guidance issued by the National Tiger Conservation Authority Guidelines for capture. Cages and tranquillizer darts were also kept ready, and we formed four teams. We spent hours combing the area where the tiger cub was last spotted. Later, a few tea estate workers informed us that the cub had taken refuge in an abandoned building in their premises, following which we tacked the tiger,” Ramasubramanian said. 6-month old, injured male tiger cub captured by TN forest dept in Anaimalai Tiger reserve(ATR). Cub bore injuries caused by porcupine Officials say, cub has been provided treatment, fed milk&meat and is doing well ATR is home to 25tigers, forest dept looking for cub's family pic.twitter.com/zmPW7vPYIi — Sidharth M.P (@sdhrthmp) September 29, 2021 × After the mammoth effort of 150 personnel in clearing the bushes and conducting searches amid the heavy rain, the cub was finally captured late on Tuesday night. Owing to its weak condition and the risks involved in using a tranquillizer, the forest department staff and experts caught the tiger cub in a net and covered its eyes and face (to prevent it from behaving aggressively) and move the cub to a treatment facility in Rottikadai, nearly 10 kilometres from the captured area in Valparai. Examination by the veterinarians revealed that the cub was injured by porcupine quills and the tiger’s faeces indicated that the big cat had eaten a porcupine. The forest official said the feline would later be released into the woods after it recovers completely. “The decision to release the cub or keep it under captivity is to be taken by the NTCA and the Chief Wildlife Warden of Tamil Nadu, after the cub completes close to a week under observation” Ramasubramanian added. Asked about the whereabouts of the cub’s mother and siblings, he replied that forest staff are looking into whether the cub was abandoned or got lost. The Anaimalai tiger reserve in Tamil Nadu is home to about 25 tigers and the region where the cub was captured is home to anywhere between 7-10 tigers. The ATR spans across parts of Coimbatore, Tirupur and Dindigul districts of Tamil Nadu.

Watch: 6-month-old injured tiger rescued by forest officials in India's southern Tamil Nadu state

Pakistan is home to at least 12 groups designated as 'foreign terrorist organisations' by the US, including five of them being India-centric like the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), according to the latest Congressional report on terrorism.

US officials have identified Pakistan as a base of operations or target for numerous armed and non-state militant groups, some of which have existed since the 1980s, the independent Congressional Research Service (CRS) said in the report.

The report, 'Terrorist and Other Militant Groups in Pakistan', released by the bipartisan research wing of US Congress on the eve of the historic Quad summit hosted by US President Joe Biden at the White House last week, said that these groups operating in Pakistan can be broadly categorised into five types -- globally-oriented, Afghanistan-oriented, India- and Kashmir-oriented, domestically oriented, and Sectarian (anti-Shia).

The Lashkar-e-Taiba (LET) was formed in the late 1980s in Pakistan and designated as a foreign terrorist organisation (FTO) in 2001.

“LET was responsible for major 2008 attacks in Mumbai, as well as numerous other high-profile attacks,” the CRS said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/narendra-modi-vs-imran-khan-looking-at-how-unga-speeches-of-indian-and-pak-prime-ministers-differ-415965">Narendra Modi vs Imran Khan: Looking at how UNGA speeches of Indian and Pak prime ministers differ</a>

Jaish-e-Mohammed (JEM) was founded in 2000 by Kashmiri militant leader Masood Azhar and was designated as an FTO in 2001. Along with LET, it was responsible for the 2001 attack on the Indian parliament, among other attacks, it said.

JEM also has openly declared war on the United States, it noted.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/how-young-indian-women-diplomats-ripped-pakistan-at-unga-416078">How young Indian women diplomats ripped Pakistan at UNGA</a>

Harakat-ul Jihad Islami (HUJI) was formed in 1980 in Afghanistan to fight the Soviet army and was designated as an FTO in 2010. After 1989, it redirected its efforts towards India, although it did supply fighters to the Afghan Taliban.

“With an unknown strength, HUJI today operates in Afghanistan, Pakistan, Bangladesh and India, and seeks annexation of Kashmir into Pakistan,” the report said, adding that HUM was designated as an FTO in 1997 and operates mainly from Pak-Occupied Kashmir and from some Pakistani cities.

Finally, Hizb-ul Mujahideen (HM) was formed in 1989—reportedly as the militant wing of Pakistan's largest Islamist political party—and designated as an FTO in 2017. It is one of the largest and oldest militant groups operating in Jammu and Kashmir.

Among other terrorist groups operating from Pakistan are Al Qaeda, CRS said, adding that it has operated primarily from the former Federally Administered Tribal Areas and in the megacity of Karachi, as well as in Afghanistan. It has since 2011 been led by Ayman al-Zawahiri and reportedly maintains supportive ties with many of the groups inside the country.

CRS said according to the US State Department's Country Reports on Terrorism 2019, Pakistan has “continued to serve as a safe haven for certain regionally focused terrorist groups,” and has “allowed groups targeting Afghanistan...as well as groups targeting India...to operate from its territory”.

Pakistan’s neighbours, including Afghanistan and India, and the US have long accused Islamabad of providing safe haven and support to militants.

Pakistan is home to at least 12 groups designated as 'foreign terrorist organisations' by the US, including five of them being India-centric like the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), according to the latest Congressional report on terrorism.

Pakistan is home to at least 12 groups designated as 'foreign terrorist organisations' by the US, including five of them being India-centric like the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), according to the latest Congressional report on terrorism. US officials have identified Pakistan as a base of operations or target for numerous armed and non-state militant groups, some of which have existed since the 1980s, the independent Congressional Research Service (CRS) said in the report. The report, 'Terrorist and Other Militant Groups in Pakistan', released by the bipartisan research wing of US Congress on the eve of the historic Quad summit hosted by US President Joe Biden at the White House last week, said that these groups operating in Pakistan can be broadly categorised into five types -- globally-oriented, Afghanistan-oriented, India- and Kashmir-oriented, domestically oriented, and Sectarian (anti-Shia). The Lashkar-e-Taiba (LET) was formed in the late 1980s in Pakistan and designated as a foreign terrorist organisation (FTO) in 2001. “LET was responsible for major 2008 attacks in Mumbai, as well as numerous other high-profile attacks,” the CRS said. Also read | Narendra Modi vs Imran Khan: Looking at how UNGA speeches of Indian and Pak prime ministers differ Jaish-e-Mohammed (JEM) was founded in 2000 by Kashmiri militant leader Masood Azhar and was designated as an FTO in 2001. Along with LET, it was responsible for the 2001 attack on the Indian parliament, among other attacks, it said. JEM also has openly declared war on the United States, it noted. Also read | How young Indian women diplomats ripped Pakistan at UNGA Harakat-ul Jihad Islami (HUJI) was formed in 1980 in Afghanistan to fight the Soviet army and was designated as an FTO in 2010. After 1989, it redirected its efforts towards India, although it did supply fighters to the Afghan Taliban. “With an unknown strength, HUJI today operates in Afghanistan, Pakistan, Bangladesh and India, and seeks annexation of Kashmir into Pakistan,” the report said, adding that HUM was designated as an FTO in 1997 and operates mainly from Pak-Occupied Kashmir and from some Pakistani cities. Finally, Hizb-ul Mujahideen (HM) was formed in 1989—reportedly as the militant wing of Pakistan's largest Islamist political party—and designated as an FTO in 2017. It is one of the largest and oldest militant groups operating in Jammu and Kashmir. Among other terrorist groups operating from Pakistan are Al Qaeda, CRS said, adding that it has operated primarily from the former Federally Administered Tribal Areas and in the megacity of Karachi, as well as in Afghanistan. It has since 2011 been led by Ayman al-Zawahiri and reportedly maintains supportive ties with many of the groups inside the country. CRS said according to the US State Department's Country Reports on Terrorism 2019, Pakistan has “continued to serve as a safe haven for certain regionally focused terrorist groups,” and has “allowed groups targeting Afghanistan...as well as groups targeting India...to operate from its territory”. Pakistan’s neighbours, including Afghanistan and India, and the US have long accused Islamabad of providing safe haven and support to militants.

Pakistan home to 12 foreign terrorist outfits: US Congressional report

Cyprus Foreign Minister Nikos Christodoulides has lauded his country's ties with India calling them "strong strategic, and indispensable" and highlighted how his country can become "gateway for Europe" for Indian businesses and other people to people engagement.

Speaking to WION's Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal in New York, Cyprus FM said, "We have excellent relations, based on our strong commitment to international law and rules-based international system". The foreign minister had a bilateral meeting with Indian External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar in New York on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). During the meet, FM Nikos extended invite to EAM to visit Cyprus.

The Cyprus FM also slammed Turkey for "militarisation" of its foriegn policy and "violating International law". He thanked India for "active and major" role when Turkey was seen violating United Nations Security council resolutions on Cyprus by opening Varosha. Varosha was once a popular resort town but was abandoned after the 1974 invasion of the Mediterranean island by Turkey.&nbsp;

WION: How will you characterise India Cyprus relations?

Nikos Christodoulides: If I would characterise the relationship between India and Cyprus, I will use 3 words--strong, strategic, and indispensable. Traditionally and historically, we have excellent relations, based on our strong commitment to International Law and rules-based international system. I am very glad; I had the chance to meet my colleague here in New York not only to discuss our bilateral relations but also to work together to enhance our bilateral relations. We exchanged views on regional developments, I have to say, I have been always looking forward to the assessment of my colleague who has a very good knowledge of the region.&nbsp;

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Third, we discussed the relationship between European Union and India. Cyprus is a strong supporter of the enhancement of the relationship between Brussels and New Delhi and we need to work together with India, not only on economic and political issues but also, on the region. Because for us, India and EU are pillars of stability in a region of great geo-strategic importance. So, we need to work together with India and I am glad that very recently, we had with us in Portugal, who had the presidency of the EU, our Indian colleague was also there to he gave assessment for the development of the region and how to work together for enhancement of EU-India relations.

WION: How can Cyprus be launch pad for Indian businesses?

Nikos Christodoulides: Cyprus for India is the gateway for Europe and European union, and that is why we are working together with my colleague to enhance people to people contact, to enhance our business relations and Europe is a huge market and can give opportunity to Indians. Also, for Europe, Europeans, European companies to invest in India. Its a huge market, a market that can give lot to European citizens and European companies.

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WION: You had a meeting with EAM Jaishankar. India and Cyprus are working on many things, we saw conversation on Turkish side not respecting United Nations Security council resolutions..

Nikos Christodoulides: First of all I would like to thank my Indian colleague, I would like to thank Indian govt through our discussions for their active and major role during the recent discussions regarding the Cyprus problem and the Turkish illegal actions in Cyprus. When the issue was discussed at the security council, have to say India's leading role, it was crucial, in order to have positive result from the security council.&nbsp;

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It is something that we recognise, it is something we are grateful for. At the same time, recognising the role of India in the region I extended an invitation to my colleague to participate in the regional developments in the eastern Mediterranean and the greater Middle East. Right now, there is an effort from all of the countries of the region, Israel, Cyprus, Greece, Egypt, UAE, Jordan to come together to not only better tackle the challenges in the region but also take advantage of the opportunities of the region. I invite my Indian colleague to participate in this discussion, in these regional discussions, and I believe and I hope that soon India will be part of these regional developments. I know, this is what the countries of the region will like to see.

WION: Turkey has been concern for Cyprus and for India as well. How is it changing the geo-political situation in and around Cyprus?

Nikos Christodoulides: Unfortunately, Turkey's behavior is violating International law, they don't respect international law, they don't respect rules-based international system. Turkey has problem with all its neighbours. It is not only Cyprus-- Greece, Syria, Libya, Iraq, even India. What we want and the message we are sending to Turkey is, we don't exclude any country from our cooperation, we want excellent bilateral relations with all countries. What we need though from turkey is to respect International Law, respect the sovereignty, territorial integrity for the countries of the region. However, we see from Turkish action, the militarisation of the Turkish foreign policy and this an issue of great concern for all the countries in the region.

WION: It doesn't look like Turkey is giving any positive vibes or actions in region, plans to recognise northern Cyprus with Turkish allies like Pakistan trying to give feelers.

Nikos Christodoulides: First of all you are right that we dont see positive vibes from Turkey. We see sometime few positive statements, but we dont see positive actions. We need positive actions. Regarding the issue you raised, recognition of an illegal regime in the north of Cyprus, as you know very well the Security Council was clear that such an action is going to be against International Law, and we expect from all countries of the international system not to proceed with such an action.

WION: Will you again go to United Nations Security council if Turkey is seen violating UNSC resolutions, as it has been?

Nikos Christodoulides: Of course, and actually recent dicussions that took place were because of the illegal actions of Turkey. It was the 3rd time we appealed to Security Council, and if there is a need again, we will do of course and we are looking forward for support from India and we know very well, having in mind that the foreign policy of India is based on International Law, that we will have your support.

Cyprus Foreign Minister Nikos Christodoulides has lauded his country's ties with India calling them "strong strategic, and indispensable" and highlighted how his country can become "gateway for Europe" for Indian businesses and other people to people engagement.

Cyprus Foreign Minister Nikos Christodoulides has lauded his country's ties with India calling them "strong strategic, and indispensable" and highlighted how his country can become "gateway for Europe" for Indian businesses and other people to people engagement. Speaking to WION's Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal in New York, Cyprus FM said, "We have excellent relations, based on our strong commitment to international law and rules-based international system". The foreign minister had a bilateral meeting with Indian External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar in New York on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). During the meet, FM Nikos extended invite to EAM to visit Cyprus. The Cyprus FM also slammed Turkey for "militarisation" of its foriegn policy and "violating International law". He thanked India for "active and major" role when Turkey was seen violating United Nations Security council resolutions on Cyprus by opening Varosha. Varosha was once a popular resort town but was abandoned after the 1974 invasion of the Mediterranean island by Turkey. WION: How will you characterise India Cyprus relations? Nikos Christodoulides: If I would characterise the relationship between India and Cyprus, I will use 3 words--strong, strategic, and indispensable. Traditionally and historically, we have excellent relations, based on our strong commitment to International Law and rules-based international system. I am very glad; I had the chance to meet my colleague here in New York not only to discuss our bilateral relations but also to work together to enhance our bilateral relations. We exchanged views on regional developments, I have to say, I have been always looking forward to the assessment of my colleague who has a very good knowledge of the region. Also Read | Nepal, India agree to further promote existing cooperation between countries Third, we discussed the relationship between European Union and India. Cyprus is a strong supporter of the enhancement of the relationship between Brussels and New Delhi and we need to work together with India, not only on economic and political issues but also, on the region. Because for us, India and EU are pillars of stability in a region of great geo-strategic importance. So, we need to work together with India and I am glad that very recently, we had with us in Portugal, who had the presidency of the EU, our Indian colleague was also there to he gave assessment for the development of the region and how to work together for enhancement of EU-India relations. WION: How can Cyprus be launch pad for Indian businesses? Nikos Christodoulides: Cyprus for India is the gateway for Europe and European union, and that is why we are working together with my colleague to enhance people to people contact, to enhance our business relations and Europe is a huge market and can give opportunity to Indians. Also, for Europe, Europeans, European companies to invest in India. Its a huge market, a market that can give lot to European citizens and European companies. Also Read | India, Oman ink pact to boost maritime security cooperation WION: You had a meeting with EAM Jaishankar. India and Cyprus are working on many things, we saw conversation on Turkish side not respecting United Nations Security council resolutions.. Nikos Christodoulides: First of all I would like to thank my Indian colleague, I would like to thank Indian govt through our discussions for their active and major role during the recent discussions regarding the Cyprus problem and the Turkish illegal actions in Cyprus. When the issue was discussed at the security council, have to say India's leading role, it was crucial, in order to have positive result from the security council. Also Read | New German govt expected to continue strong ties with India: German envoy It is something that we recognise, it is something we are grateful for. At the same time, recognising the role of India in the region I extended an invitation to my colleague to participate in the regional developments in the eastern Mediterranean and the greater Middle East. Right now, there is an effort from all of the countries of the region, Israel, Cyprus, Greece, Egypt, UAE, Jordan to come together to not only better tackle the challenges in the region but also take advantage of the opportunities of the region. I invite my Indian colleague to participate in this discussion, in these regional discussions, and I believe and I hope that soon India will be part of these regional developments. I know, this is what the countries of the region will like to see. WION: Turkey has been concern for Cyprus and for India as well. How is it changing the geo-political situation in and around Cyprus? Nikos Christodoulides: Unfortunately, Turkey's behavior is violating International law, they don't respect international law, they don't respect rules-based international system. Turkey has problem with all its neighbours. It is not only Cyprus-- Greece, Syria, Libya, Iraq, even India. What we want and the message we are sending to Turkey is, we don't exclude any country from our cooperation, we want excellent bilateral relations with all countries. What we need though from turkey is to respect International Law, respect the sovereignty, territorial integrity for the countries of the region. However, we see from Turkish action, the militarisation of the Turkish foreign policy and this an issue of great concern for all the countries in the region. WION: It doesn't look like Turkey is giving any positive vibes or actions in region, plans to recognise northern Cyprus with Turkish allies like Pakistan trying to give feelers. Nikos Christodoulides: First of all you are right that we dont see positive vibes from Turkey. We see sometime few positive statements, but we dont see positive actions. We need positive actions. Regarding the issue you raised, recognition of an illegal regime in the north of Cyprus, as you know very well the Security Council was clear that such an action is going to be against International Law, and we expect from all countries of the international system not to proceed with such an action. WION: Will you again go to United Nations Security council if Turkey is seen violating UNSC resolutions, as it has been? Nikos Christodoulides: Of course, and actually recent dicussions that took place were because of the illegal actions of Turkey. It was the 3rd time we appealed to Security Council, and if there is a need again, we will do of course and we are looking forward for support from India and we know very well, having in mind that the foreign policy of India is based on International Law, that we will have your support.

Ties with India are strong, strategic and indispensable: Cyprus FM Christodoulides

Adults' average heights in India are decreasing, while global average heights are increasing.

According to a new study titled "Trends in adult height in India from 1998 to 2015: Evidence from the National Family and Health Survey," the situation is concerning.

"In the context of an overall increase in average heights worldwide, the decline in average height of adults in India is alarming and demands an urgent enquiry. The argument for different standards of height for the Indian population as different genetic groups needs further scrutiny, " the authors of the study said.

The findings from India, on the other hand, highlight the need to investigate non-genetic factors as well as the interaction of genetic, nutritional, and other social and environmental determinants on height, they noted.

The authors used quantitative secondary data analysis to investigate the variation in height among adults in India in order to track trends in height.

The National Nutritional Monitoring Bureau (NNMB) and the National Family Health Survey both gather data on height on a wide basis (NFHS). &nbsp;

The authors of this study looked into various height trends among people in India, and the findings revealed that the average height of women and men in the 15-25 year age range has dropped significantly in recent years.

While women's average height has declined by roughly 0.42 cm, men's average height has decreased by 1.10 cm in the above age group.

Religious groups, caste or tribe, domicile, and wealth index all showed a decrease in average height.&nbsp;

The authors also discussed the elements that are impacting the fall in India's average adult height.

While hereditary factors are thought to account for 60–80 percent of final height, environmental and social factors play a significant role in realising that potential.

(With inputs from agencies)

Adults' average heights in India are decreasing, while global average heights are increasing. According to a new study titled "Trends in adult height in India from 1998 to 2015: Evidence from the National Family and Health Survey," the situation is concerning.

Adults' average heights in India are decreasing, while global average heights are increasing. According to a new study titled "Trends in adult height in India from 1998 to 2015: Evidence from the National Family and Health Survey," the situation is concerning. "In the context of an overall increase in average heights worldwide, the decline in average height of adults in India is alarming and demands an urgent enquiry. The argument for different standards of height for the Indian population as different genetic groups needs further scrutiny, " the authors of the study said. The findings from India, on the other hand, highlight the need to investigate non-genetic factors as well as the interaction of genetic, nutritional, and other social and environmental determinants on height, they noted. The authors used quantitative secondary data analysis to investigate the variation in height among adults in India in order to track trends in height. The National Nutritional Monitoring Bureau (NNMB) and the National Family Health Survey both gather data on height on a wide basis (NFHS). The authors of this study looked into various height trends among people in India, and the findings revealed that the average height of women and men in the 15-25 year age range has dropped significantly in recent years. While women's average height has declined by roughly 0.42 cm, men's average height has decreased by 1.10 cm in the above age group. Religious groups, caste or tribe, domicile, and wealth index all showed a decrease in average height. The authors also discussed the elements that are impacting the fall in India's average adult height. While hereditary factors are thought to account for 60–80 percent of final height, environmental and social factors play a significant role in realising that potential. (With inputs from agencies)

Decrease in average height of adults in India alarming: Study

According to the Indian Army, the bomb disposal team conducted controlled explosions of live, unexploded ordnance, in Tiruvallur district, near Chennai. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;

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Nearly 15 tonnes of live, unexploded ordnance alongwith iron and steel scrap, which were seized from SIPCOT Industrial Complex were destroyed in two phases.

The first phase was conducted in March this year to blast 10 tonnes of unexploded shells. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-india-successfully-tests-akash-prime-missile-destroys-aerial-target-416452" hreflang="en">Watch: India successfully tests 'Akash Prime' missile, destroys aerial target</a>

In the third week of September, the remaining five tonnes were destroyed in controlled explosions.

This process involved the dangerous task of retrieving, transporting and blasting these bombs in controlled blasts, while ensuring the safety of the local population.&nbsp;

According to the Indian Army, the bomb disposal team conducted controlled explosions of live, unexploded ordnance, in Tiruvallur district, near Chennai. Watch: × Nearly 15 tonnes of live, unexploded ordnance alongwith iron and steel scrap, which were seized from SIPCOT Industrial Complex were destroyed in two phases.

According to the Indian Army, the bomb disposal team conducted controlled explosions of live, unexploded ordnance, in Tiruvallur district, near Chennai. Watch: × Nearly 15 tonnes of live, unexploded ordnance alongwith iron and steel scrap, which were seized from SIPCOT Industrial Complex were destroyed in two phases. The first phase was conducted in March this year to blast 10 tonnes of unexploded shells. Also Read | Watch: India successfully tests 'Akash Prime' missile, destroys aerial target In the third week of September, the remaining five tonnes were destroyed in controlled explosions. This process involved the dangerous task of retrieving, transporting and blasting these bombs in controlled blasts, while ensuring the safety of the local population.

Operation Tiruvallur: Indian Army destroys 15-tonne unexploded shells in controlled blasts

US President Joe Biden's statements slapping at US media for asking questions that aren't 'on topic' in front of a foreign head of state were defended by White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki, who said his words weren't meant as a 'hard cut' on them.

Jen Psaki was grilled by the media on Monday about Biden's remarks to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in which he advised his counterpart not to answer questions and appeared to attack US journalists.&nbsp; 
 
IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/indian-pm-modi-us-president-joe-biden-hold-first-in-person-meet-in-white-house-ahead-of-quad-leaders-summit-415651">PM Modi, US President Joe Biden hold first in person meet in White House</a>

"I think what he said is that they’re not always "on point." Now, I know that it isn’t something that anyone wants to hear here. But what I think he was conveying is, you know, today, he might want to talk about Covid vaccines; some of the questions were about that. He might want to talk about something else, and some of the questions are not always about the topic he’s talking about that day, " Psaki said.

"I don’t think it was meant to be a hard cut at the members of the media – people he has taken questions from today and on Friday as well," she said. 
 
What exactly happened:

While sitting in the Oval Office with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on September 24, President Biden took a jab at the American press.

"The Indian press is much better behaved than the American press.I think, with your permission, you could not answer questions because they won’t ask any questions on point," Biden began on Friday as they sat down. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-indian-pm-narendra-modi-receives-warm-welcome-by-joe-biden-video-wins-hearts-415646">Watch: Indian PM Narendra Modi receives warm welcome by Joe Biden, video wins hearts</a>

According to Reporters Without Borders, India is ranked 142nd in the world when it comes to press freedom, and the US is ranked 44th in the world.

To this, Psaki said, "I would just say to you that having now worked for the President, serving in this role for nine months, having seen that he's taking questions from the press more than 140 times, that he certainly respects the role of the press, the freedom of the free press."

"We ensure that we have a press with us, of course, when we travel; that we have a press with us for sprays in foreign capitals; and we will continue to. And I think that should speak to his commitment to freedom of the press around the world, " she said. 
 
ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/5-ts-indian-pm-narendra-modi-redefines-contours-of-ties-at-summit-with-us-president-joe-biden-415677">'5 Ts': Indian PM Narendra Modi redefines contours of ties at summit with US president Joe Biden</a>

In the past, Biden has lauded the importance of reporters and journalism, but he has also expressed dissatisfaction with the coverage of him and his administration, as well as the questions he is asked while interacting with the press.

Biden was sitting in the Oval Office with Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa Al-Kadhimi in late July when NBC's Kelly O'Donnell questioned him about Veterans Affairs Secretary Denis McDonough's declaration that frontline VA personnel would have to undergo Covid-19 vaccines.

"You are such a pain in the neck," Biden replied, smiling, "but I'm going to answer your question because we've known each other for so long."&nbsp;

"It has nothing to do with Iraq … I’ll answer your question. Yes, Veteran Affairs is going to, in fact, require that all doctors working in their facilities are going to have to be vaccinated," he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

US President Joe Biden's statements slapping at US media for asking questions that aren't 'on topic' in front of a foreign head of state were defended by White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki, who said his words weren't meant as a 'hard cut' on them.

US President Joe Biden's statements slapping at US media for asking questions that aren't 'on topic' in front of a foreign head of state were defended by White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki, who said his words weren't meant as a 'hard cut' on them. Jen Psaki was grilled by the media on Monday about Biden's remarks to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in which he advised his counterpart not to answer questions and appeared to attack US journalists. IN PICS | PM Modi, US President Joe Biden hold first in person meet in White House "I think what he said is that they’re not always "on point." Now, I know that it isn’t something that anyone wants to hear here. But what I think he was conveying is, you know, today, he might want to talk about Covid vaccines; some of the questions were about that. He might want to talk about something else, and some of the questions are not always about the topic he’s talking about that day, " Psaki said. "I don’t think it was meant to be a hard cut at the members of the media – people he has taken questions from today and on Friday as well," she said. What exactly happened: While sitting in the Oval Office with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on September 24, President Biden took a jab at the American press. "The Indian press is much better behaved than the American press.I think, with your permission, you could not answer questions because they won’t ask any questions on point," Biden began on Friday as they sat down. Watch: Indian PM Narendra Modi receives warm welcome by Joe Biden, video wins hearts According to Reporters Without Borders, India is ranked 142nd in the world when it comes to press freedom, and the US is ranked 44th in the world. To this, Psaki said, "I would just say to you that having now worked for the President, serving in this role for nine months, having seen that he's taking questions from the press more than 140 times, that he certainly respects the role of the press, the freedom of the free press." "We ensure that we have a press with us, of course, when we travel; that we have a press with us for sprays in foreign capitals; and we will continue to. And I think that should speak to his commitment to freedom of the press around the world, " she said. ALSO READ | '5 Ts': Indian PM Narendra Modi redefines contours of ties at summit with US president Joe Biden In the past, Biden has lauded the importance of reporters and journalism, but he has also expressed dissatisfaction with the coverage of him and his administration, as well as the questions he is asked while interacting with the press. Biden was sitting in the Oval Office with Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa Al-Kadhimi in late July when NBC's Kelly O'Donnell questioned him about Veterans Affairs Secretary Denis McDonough's declaration that frontline VA personnel would have to undergo Covid-19 vaccines. "You are such a pain in the neck," Biden replied, smiling, "but I'm going to answer your question because we've known each other for so long." "It has nothing to do with Iraq … I’ll answer your question. Yes, Veteran Affairs is going to, in fact, require that all doctors working in their facilities are going to have to be vaccinated," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

'Indian media is 'better behaved' than the US': White House defends Biden's statement

A Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorist from Pakistan was arrested by the Indian Army on Tuesday in a significant security operation.

Ali Babar Patra, a 19-year-old LeT terrorist from Pakistan's Punjab province, is a native of Okhara.

In an operation in the Uri sector of Jammu and Kashmir, he was apprehended by security forces.

Two infiltrators crossed the border, while four more terrorists were on the Pakistani side, according to Major Vats. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/arsonist-disguised-as-fire-fighter-india-slams-pakistan-at-unga-over-kashmir-terrorism-415755">Also read | 'Arsonist disguised as fire-fighter': India slams Pakistan at UNGA over Kashmir, terrorism</a> 
 
He also stated that on September 25, an incident occurred in which one terrorist was killed and another was captured.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-vice-president-kamala-harris-referred-to-pakistans-role-in-terrorism-during-meeting-with-pm-modi-shringla-415387">Also read | US Vice President Kamala Harris referred to Pakistan's role in terrorism during meeting with PM Modi: Shringla</a>

"1 terrorist neutralised, another terrorist caught during an operation in the Uri sector of Jammu and Kashmir," Major General Virendra Vats, GOC, 19 Infantry Division said.

For almost 9 days, the Army conducted a significant operation along the Line of Control in Uri Sector.

On September, the soldiers discovered a terrorist infiltration attempt, which resulted in a firefight.

Their custody also yielded a sizable stockpile of weapons and ammo.

The Uri operation yielded seven AK series rifles, nine handguns and revolvers, more than 80 grenades, and Indian and Pakistani money.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorist from Pakistan was arrested by the Indian Army on Tuesday in a significant security operation. Ali Babar Patra, a 19-year-old LeT terrorist from Pakistan's Punjab province, is a native of Okhara.

A Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorist from Pakistan was arrested by the Indian Army on Tuesday in a significant security operation. Ali Babar Patra, a 19-year-old LeT terrorist from Pakistan's Punjab province, is a native of Okhara. In an operation in the Uri sector of Jammu and Kashmir, he was apprehended by security forces. Two infiltrators crossed the border, while four more terrorists were on the Pakistani side, according to Major Vats. Also read | 'Arsonist disguised as fire-fighter': India slams Pakistan at UNGA over Kashmir, terrorism He also stated that on September 25, an incident occurred in which one terrorist was killed and another was captured. Also read | US Vice President Kamala Harris referred to Pakistan's role in terrorism during meeting with PM Modi: Shringla "1 terrorist neutralised, another terrorist caught during an operation in the Uri sector of Jammu and Kashmir," Major General Virendra Vats, GOC, 19 Infantry Division said. For almost 9 days, the Army conducted a significant operation along the Line of Control in Uri Sector. On September, the soldiers discovered a terrorist infiltration attempt, which resulted in a firefight. Their custody also yielded a sizable stockpile of weapons and ammo. The Uri operation yielded seven AK series rifles, nine handguns and revolvers, more than 80 grenades, and Indian and Pakistani money. (With inputs from agencies)

19-year-old Pakistani terrorist, Ali Babar Patra, surrendered in J&K

The Nepal government on Monday decided to withdraw the ordinance brought by Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba which allowed division of the opposition parties, paving the way for cabinet expansion, which has been delayed for over two months ever since he assumed power.

The Deuba government on August 18 had proposed an ordinance that allowed a new political party to be registered at the Election Commission with only 20 per cent support of its leaders whether in the parliamentary party or in the party’s central committee.&nbsp;The ordinance had delayed the process of cabinet expansion as the ruling alliance partners felt it could ease splits in their parties.

Now, following the government’s decision, President Bidya Devi Bhandari scrapped the ordinance.&nbsp;

"President Bidya Devi Bhandari as per the decision of the Council of Ministers and recommendation of the Prime Minister has scrapped the Ordinance on Political Parties (Second Amendment)-2078 as per Clause 2(b) of Article 114 of the Constitution of Nepal,” the Office of the President said in a statement on Monday.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/unga-nepal-condemns-terrorism-in-all-its-forms-calls-for-complete-disarmament-416509">UNGA: Nepal condemns terrorism in all its forms, calls for complete disarmament&nbsp;</a>

“The government has withdrawn the ordinance, but we are not sure what will be the outcome. Janata Samajwadi Party faction led by Upendra Yadav wanted the ordinance to be withdrawn whereas Madhav Kumar Nepal faction wanted the continuation of the ordinance. Both factions are trying to keep their party safe. They are building their own safety net,” a Nepali Congress leader told WION.&nbsp;

“We intend to form a coalition and hopefully this will help in cabinet formation. Upendra Yadav has not confirmed to join the government,” the leader added.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepal-pm-deuba-to-seek-vote-of-confidence-today-398804">Nepal PM&nbsp;Deuba&nbsp;to seek vote of confidence today&nbsp;</a>

Earlier, the Political Parties Act had a provision that any group can register as a new party if it can show it has the support of 40 per cent members of the central committee and the parliamentary party.

If both, the central committee and the parliamentary parties could not get 40 per cent members, the office-bearers or MPs who separated from any party could lose their posts.

The passing of the ordinance not only benefited Madhav Kumar Nepal to separate from KP Sharma Oli led CPN-UML but also Mahanta Thakur faction of Janata Samajwadi Party (JSP) to form a new party.&nbsp;

Nepal faction announced their split from CPN-UML party and formed the CPN (Unified Socialist) while Thakur split the Janata Samajwadi Party to form the Loktantrik Samajbadi Party.

The Nepal government on Monday decided to withdraw the ordinance brought by Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba which allowed division of the opposition parties, paving the way for cabinet expansion, which has been delayed for over two months ever since he assumed power.

The Nepal government on Monday decided to withdraw the ordinance brought by Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba which allowed division of the opposition parties, paving the way for cabinet expansion, which has been delayed for over two months ever since he assumed power. The Deuba government on August 18 had proposed an ordinance that allowed a new political party to be registered at the Election Commission with only 20 per cent support of its leaders whether in the parliamentary party or in the party’s central committee. The ordinance had delayed the process of cabinet expansion as the ruling alliance partners felt it could ease splits in their parties. Now, following the government’s decision, President Bidya Devi Bhandari scrapped the ordinance. "President Bidya Devi Bhandari as per the decision of the Council of Ministers and recommendation of the Prime Minister has scrapped the Ordinance on Political Parties (Second Amendment)-2078 as per Clause 2(b) of Article 114 of the Constitution of Nepal,” the Office of the President said in a statement on Monday. Also read | UNGA: Nepal condemns terrorism in all its forms, calls for complete disarmament “The government has withdrawn the ordinance, but we are not sure what will be the outcome. Janata Samajwadi Party faction led by Upendra Yadav wanted the ordinance to be withdrawn whereas Madhav Kumar Nepal faction wanted the continuation of the ordinance. Both factions are trying to keep their party safe. They are building their own safety net,” a Nepali Congress leader told WION. “We intend to form a coalition and hopefully this will help in cabinet formation. Upendra Yadav has not confirmed to join the government,” the leader added. Also read | Nepal PM Deuba to seek vote of confidence today Earlier, the Political Parties Act had a provision that any group can register as a new party if it can show it has the support of 40 per cent members of the central committee and the parliamentary party. If both, the central committee and the parliamentary parties could not get 40 per cent members, the office-bearers or MPs who separated from any party could lose their posts. The passing of the ordinance not only benefited Madhav Kumar Nepal to separate from KP Sharma Oli led CPN-UML but also Mahanta Thakur faction of Janata Samajwadi Party (JSP) to form a new party. Nepal faction announced their split from CPN-UML party and formed the CPN (Unified Socialist) while Thakur split the Janata Samajwadi Party to form the Loktantrik Samajbadi Party.

As Nepal president repeals disputed ordinance, key parties scramble to form cabinet after waiting for months

While denying bail to one of the accused in the 2020 Delhi riots that claimed 53 lives and left more than 400 injured, the Delhi high court said the communal riots was “pre-planned and premeditated” intend to disturb law and order in the city.

Justice Subramonium Prasad made these remarks on Monday while denying the bail request of an accused, Mohammad Ibrahim, who was arrested in December in connection with the alleged murder of Delhi Police head constable Ratan Lal.&nbsp;

The court, while observing the video footage submitted by the prosecution, said the riots were meticulously planned to disrupt the normal life.

“The riots which shook the National Capital of the country in February 2020 evidently did not take place in a spur of the moment, and the conduct of the protestors who are present in the video footage which has been placed on&nbsp;record by the prosecution visibly portrays that it was a calculated attempt to dislocate the functioning of the government as well as to disrupt the normal 
life of the people in the city," the Court said

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-riots-2020-the-untold-story-why-banning-a-book-cannot-be-justified-322859">&nbsp;'Delhi Riots 2020: The Untold Story' — Why banning a book cannot be justified</a>

.“This is also evident from the fact that innumerable rioters ruthlessly descended with sticks, dandas (batons), bats etc. upon a hopelessly outnumbered cohort of police officials,” the order stated.

Noting that the accused was identified on multiple CCTV footages, carrying a sword, and instigating the crowd, the court said that individual liberty cannot be misused in a manner that threatens the very fabric of civilised society by attempting to destabilise it and cause hurt to other persons.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/why-delhi-burnt-under-centres-watch-283153">Why Delhi burnt under Centre's watch?</a>

Even though the petitioner cannot be seen at the scene of crime, he was a part of the mob for the sole reason that the petitioner had consciously travelled 1.6 km away from his neighbourhood with a sword which could only be used to incite violence and inflict damage, the court said.

Also see |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/delhi-riots-clashes-over-caa-rock-the-national-capital-282859#section-144-imposed-282850">Delhi Riots: Clashes over CAA rock the national capital</a>

The petitioner, Ibrahim, was arrested in December 2020 and has been in judicial custody since then. He sought bail on the ground that he never participated in any protest or the riots at any point in time and the place on a record by the prosecution did not place him anywhere close to the scene of the crime.

The case pertains to a mob attack on police officers at Chand Bagh in northeast Delhi at the peak of the riots revolving around protests over a new citizenship law.

Ratan Lal, who was a part of the grossly outnumbered contingent of policemen, died of head injuries and another official was severely injured.

(With inputs from agencies)

While denying bail to one of the accused in the 2020 Delhi riots that claimed 53 lives and left more than 400 injured, the Delhi high court said the communal riots was “pre-planned and premeditated” intend to disturb law and order in the city.

While denying bail to one of the accused in the 2020 Delhi riots that claimed 53 lives and left more than 400 injured, the Delhi high court said the communal riots was “pre-planned and premeditated” intend to disturb law and order in the city. Justice Subramonium Prasad made these remarks on Monday while denying the bail request of an accused, Mohammad Ibrahim, who was arrested in December in connection with the alleged murder of Delhi Police head constable Ratan Lal. The court, while observing the video footage submitted by the prosecution, said the riots were meticulously planned to disrupt the normal life. “The riots which shook the National Capital of the country in February 2020 evidently did not take place in a spur of the moment, and the conduct of the protestors who are present in the video footage which has been placed on record by the prosecution visibly portrays that it was a calculated attempt to dislocate the functioning of the government as well as to disrupt the normal life of the people in the city," the Court said Also read | 'Delhi Riots 2020: The Untold Story' — Why banning a book cannot be justified .“This is also evident from the fact that innumerable rioters ruthlessly descended with sticks, dandas (batons), bats etc. upon a hopelessly outnumbered cohort of police officials,” the order stated. Noting that the accused was identified on multiple CCTV footages, carrying a sword, and instigating the crowd, the court said that individual liberty cannot be misused in a manner that threatens the very fabric of civilised society by attempting to destabilise it and cause hurt to other persons. Also read | Why Delhi burnt under Centre's watch? Even though the petitioner cannot be seen at the scene of crime, he was a part of the mob for the sole reason that the petitioner had consciously travelled 1.6 km away from his neighbourhood with a sword which could only be used to incite violence and inflict damage, the court said. Also see | Delhi Riots: Clashes over CAA rock the national capital The petitioner, Ibrahim, was arrested in December 2020 and has been in judicial custody since then. He sought bail on the ground that he never participated in any protest or the riots at any point in time and the place on a record by the prosecution did not place him anywhere close to the scene of the crime. The case pertains to a mob attack on police officers at Chand Bagh in northeast Delhi at the peak of the riots revolving around protests over a new citizenship law. Ratan Lal, who was a part of the grossly outnumbered contingent of policemen, died of head injuries and another official was severely injured. (With inputs from agencies)

2020 Delhi riots pre-planned & premeditated, didn't take place in spur of the moment, says court

India`s drug regulator on Tuesday allowed vaccine maker Serum Institute to enrol kids aged 7-11 years for its COVID-19 vaccine trial as the country prepares to protect children from the coronavirus.

It has already administered more than 870 million doses to adults among its population of nearly 1.4 billion.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-records-18795-fresh-covid-19-cases-lowest-in-six-months-416546">&nbsp;</a><a href="India records 18,795 fresh COVID-19 cases, lowest in six months">India records 18,795 fresh COVID-19 cases, lowest in six months</a>

"After detailed deliberation, the committee recommended for allowing enrolment of subjects of 7 to 11 years of age group as per the protocol," a subject expert panel of the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-virus-expected-to-continue-to-transmit-for-a-very-long-time-says-who-official-416547">Covid virus expected to continue to transmit for a very long time, says WHO official</a>

Serum Institute is already conducting a trial of its COVID-19 vaccine, a domestically produced version of US&nbsp;drugmaker Novavax`s shot, in the 12-17 age group and has presented safety data for an initial 100 participants.

So far, only drugmaker Zydus Cadila`s DNA COVID-19 vaccine has received emergency use approval in India to be used in adults and children aged 12 years and above.

India`s drug regulator on Tuesday allowed vaccine maker Serum Institute to enrol kids aged 7-11 years for its COVID-19 vaccine trial as the country prepares to protect children from the coronavirus.

India`s drug regulator on Tuesday allowed vaccine maker Serum Institute to enrol kids aged 7-11 years for its COVID-19 vaccine trial as the country prepares to protect children from the coronavirus. It has already administered more than 870 million doses to adults among its population of nearly 1.4 billion. Also read | India records 18,795 fresh COVID-19 cases, lowest in six months "After detailed deliberation, the committee recommended for allowing enrolment of subjects of 7 to 11 years of age group as per the protocol," a subject expert panel of the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization said. Also read | Covid virus expected to continue to transmit for a very long time, says WHO official Serum Institute is already conducting a trial of its COVID-19 vaccine, a domestically produced version of US drugmaker Novavax`s shot, in the 12-17 age group and has presented safety data for an initial 100 participants. So far, only drugmaker Zydus Cadila`s DNA COVID-19 vaccine has received emergency use approval in India to be used in adults and children aged 12 years and above.

India allows Serum Institute to enrol 7-11 year olds in COVID-19 vaccine trial

The number of fresh coronavirus cases was recorded at below 20,000 (18,795) in India after 201 days on Tuesday, taking the country's COVID-19 tally to 3,36,97,581, while the number of active cases declined to 2,92,206, the lowest in 192 days, according to the Union health ministry.

A total 18,795 fresh Covid cases were registered in a span of 24 hours, while the death toll due to the viral disease climbed to 4,47,373 with 179 more fatalities, the lowest in 193 days, according to the ministry's data updated at 8 am.

The number of daily fatalities was recorded at 154 on March 19.

The number of active cases has declined to 2,92,206, accounting for 0.87 per cent of the total number of cases -- the lowest since March 2020 -- while the national COVID-19 recovery rate was recorded at 97.81 per cent, the highest since March last year, the ministry said.

A decrease of 7,414 cases was recorded in the active COVID-19 caseload in a span of 24 hours.

Less than 50,000 daily cases are being reported in the country for 93 consecutive days now, the ministry said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-might-be-entering-endemic-stage-of-covid-19-who-chief-scientist-swaminathan-408296">India might be entering endemic stage of COVID-19: WHO chief scientist Swaminathan</a>

Also, 13,21,780 tests were conducted to detect the infection on Monday, taking the total number of such tests conducted so far in the country to 56,57,30,031.

The daily positivity rate was recorded at 1.42 per cent. It has been less than three per cent for the last 29 days.

The weekly positivity rate was recorded at 1.88 per cent. It has been below three per cent for the last 95 days, according to the ministry.

The number of people who have recuperated from the disease has gone up to 3,29,58,002, while the case fatality rate was recorded at 1.33 per cent.

The cumulative number of vaccine doses administered in the country so far under the nationwide COVID-19 vaccination drive has exceeded 87 crore with more than one crore doses administered in a span of 24 hours.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-mocks-indias-covid-19-crisis-deletes-post-after-backlash-382517">China mocks India’s COVID-19 crisis, deletes post after backlash</a>

India's COVID-19 tally crossed the 20-lakh mark on August 7, 2020, the 30-lakh mark on August 23, the 40-lakh mark on September 5 and the 50-lakh mark on September 16.

It went past 60 lakh on September 28, 70 lakh on October 11, 80 lakh on October 29, 90 lakh on November 20 and the one-crore mark on December 19 last year.

The country crossed the grim milestone of two crore Covid cases on May 4 this year and the three-crore mark on June 23.

The 179 new fatalities include 58 from Kerala and 32 from Maharashtra.

A total of 4,47,373 deaths due to the viral disease have so far been reported in the country, including 1,38,902 from Maharashtra, 37,746 from Karnataka, 35,509 from Tamil Nadu, 25,085 from Delhi, 24,661 from Kerala, 22,890 from Uttar Pradesh and 18,751 from West Bengal.

The ministry stressed that more than 70 per cent of the deaths occurred due to comorbidities.

"Our figures are being reconciled with the Indian Council of Medical Research," the ministry said on its website, adding that a state-wise distribution of the figures is subject to further verification and reconciliation.&nbsp;

The number of fresh coronavirus cases was recorded at below 20,000 (18,795) in India after 201 days on Tuesday, taking the country's COVID-19 tally to 3,36,97,581, while the number of active cases declined to 2,92,206, the lowest in 192 days, according to the Union health ministry.

The number of fresh coronavirus cases was recorded at below 20,000 (18,795) in India after 201 days on Tuesday, taking the country's COVID-19 tally to 3,36,97,581, while the number of active cases declined to 2,92,206, the lowest in 192 days, according to the Union health ministry. A total 18,795 fresh Covid cases were registered in a span of 24 hours, while the death toll due to the viral disease climbed to 4,47,373 with 179 more fatalities, the lowest in 193 days, according to the ministry's data updated at 8 am. The number of daily fatalities was recorded at 154 on March 19. The number of active cases has declined to 2,92,206, accounting for 0.87 per cent of the total number of cases -- the lowest since March 2020 -- while the national COVID-19 recovery rate was recorded at 97.81 per cent, the highest since March last year, the ministry said. A decrease of 7,414 cases was recorded in the active COVID-19 caseload in a span of 24 hours. Less than 50,000 daily cases are being reported in the country for 93 consecutive days now, the ministry said. Also read | India might be entering endemic stage of COVID-19: WHO chief scientist Swaminathan Also, 13,21,780 tests were conducted to detect the infection on Monday, taking the total number of such tests conducted so far in the country to 56,57,30,031. The daily positivity rate was recorded at 1.42 per cent. It has been less than three per cent for the last 29 days. The weekly positivity rate was recorded at 1.88 per cent. It has been below three per cent for the last 95 days, according to the ministry. The number of people who have recuperated from the disease has gone up to 3,29,58,002, while the case fatality rate was recorded at 1.33 per cent. The cumulative number of vaccine doses administered in the country so far under the nationwide COVID-19 vaccination drive has exceeded 87 crore with more than one crore doses administered in a span of 24 hours. Also read | China mocks India’s COVID-19 crisis, deletes post after backlash India's COVID-19 tally crossed the 20-lakh mark on August 7, 2020, the 30-lakh mark on August 23, the 40-lakh mark on September 5 and the 50-lakh mark on September 16. It went past 60 lakh on September 28, 70 lakh on October 11, 80 lakh on October 29, 90 lakh on November 20 and the one-crore mark on December 19 last year. The country crossed the grim milestone of two crore Covid cases on May 4 this year and the three-crore mark on June 23. The 179 new fatalities include 58 from Kerala and 32 from Maharashtra. A total of 4,47,373 deaths due to the viral disease have so far been reported in the country, including 1,38,902 from Maharashtra, 37,746 from Karnataka, 35,509 from Tamil Nadu, 25,085 from Delhi, 24,661 from Kerala, 22,890 from Uttar Pradesh and 18,751 from West Bengal. The ministry stressed that more than 70 per cent of the deaths occurred due to comorbidities. "Our figures are being reconciled with the Indian Council of Medical Research," the ministry said on its website, adding that a state-wise distribution of the figures is subject to further verification and reconciliation.

India records 18,795 fresh COVID-19 cases, lowest in six months

Stressing that the Covid virus may continue to transmit for a very long time, senior WHO official Poonam Khetrapal Singh says the level of immunity in a community, through vaccination and previous infection, will determine whether it will become endemic in the long run.

WHO's South-East Asia region regional director added that there is need to get to a situation where "we are fully in control of the virus, and not the virus in control of us".

The endemic stage is when a population learns to live with a virus, very different from the epidemic stage when the virus overwhelms a population.

Populations where more people were previously infected and where vaccination coverage is high are expected to be less impacted by the virus in the future than other populations, Singh told PTI in an interview.

"The COVID-19 virus is expected to continue to transmit for a very long time. A multitude of factors will decide whether the virus will become endemic in the long run, chief among them is the level of immunity in a community, both through vaccination and previous infection, she said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-records-18795-fresh-covid-19-cases-lowest-in-six-months-416546">India records 18,795 fresh COVID-19 cases, lowest in six months</a>

On the granting of emergency use authorisation (EUA) for the indigenously developed Covaxin, she said Bharat Biotech's dossier seeking WHO's Emergency Use Listing (EUL) is being reviewed by technical experts and "we can expect a decision when the process is complete".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-pandemic-ceos-of-pfizer-and-moderna-say-life-will-be-back-to-normal-in-a-year-416527">Covid pandemic: CEOs of Pfizer and Moderna say life will be back to normal in a year</a>

Discussing the role of booster doses to tackle waning immunity, Singh pointed out that cases and deaths in all countries are predominantly being driven by unvaccinated people. Using vaccines for booster doses constricts supply to countries where millions are still waiting for their first dose, she said.

"Hence, WHO has called for a time-limited moratorium on COVID-19 booster doses until the end of 2021. This is to allow for at least 40 per cent of the population of each country - including those most at risk and health workers - to be vaccinated. We must remember that no one is safe till everyone is safe."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cant-go-unvaccinated-president-biden-gets-vaccine-booster-shot-416490">'Can't go unvaccinated': President Biden gets vaccine booster shot</a>

She said there is currently no conclusive evidence that COVID-19 vaccine efficacy against severe disease and death wanes significantly over time. The vaccines, the expert emphasised, have remained effective in preventing severe disease and death.

"However, WHO has not ruled out that boosters for some population groups may be warranted in future. WHO's recommendations on boosters will be guided by the scientific evidence, which is still evolving," she said.

"To make a recommendation on the use of booster doses for the general population, more data is needed on optimal timing, safety and dosage of booster doses, which may differ between vaccine products. More extensive research is needed to study the effect of booster doses in the body." 
According to Singh, eradication is unlikely but what we can do is to prevent or minimise deaths, hospitalisations, tragedy and social, economic and health loss due to this pandemic.

Current evidence, she said, shows that protection levels around the world remain low and most people continue to be susceptible to the virus.

"WHO continues to recommend a strong public health response based on risk assessment, and for people to continue to protect themselves by getting vaccinated, maintaining physical distance, wearing a mask, avoiding poorly ventilated spaces, cleaning hands and following respiratory hygiene." 
 
Referring to the probability of a third Covid wave, Singh said another surge and how intense it will be will depend on all of us.

"If we together continue to adhere to public health and social measures and continue to vaccinate people as fast as possible, it will be hard for the virus to infect enough people to cause another wave," she said.

"From experience globally, there is enough evidence that the public health and social measures work, even against the Variants of Concern that are spreading more rapidly, and these measures are critical to limiting transmission of COVID-19 and reducing deaths. For the public health and social measures to be effective, they must be implemented well and timely and must be tailored to local settings and conditions." 
 
On India's decision to restart exporting COVID-19 vaccines, Singh said there is need for equity of vaccination administration globally to ensure that the most vulnerable such as frontline workers and the elderly are fully vaccinated.

"At the moment, several low and lower-middle-income countries are lagging behind in vaccinating their vulnerable populations. An equitable vaccine distribution will also help check the emergence of variants by halting the spread of the virus." 
 
Singh also noted that the pandemic has given "once-in-a-century opportunity" to strengthen the health system to build back better.

"We must invest in strengthening health system resilience to ensure health security and achieve universal health coverage. It means allocation of more resources for health and its efficient governance," she said.

Now is also the time for countries to take lessons from the pandemic to strengthen health systems in her view.

"Strong health systems that are primary healthcare-oriented, and which leave no one behind, create populations that are healthier, more productive and financially secure. Resilient health systems are the bedrock of emergency preparedness and response, and ensure that when acute events occur, essential health services can be maintained," Singh said.

Stressing that the Covid virus may continue to transmit for a very long time, senior WHO official Poonam Khetrapal Singh says the level of immunity in a community, through vaccination and previous infection, will determine whether it will become endemic in the long run.

Stressing that the Covid virus may continue to transmit for a very long time, senior WHO official Poonam Khetrapal Singh says the level of immunity in a community, through vaccination and previous infection, will determine whether it will become endemic in the long run. WHO's South-East Asia region regional director added that there is need to get to a situation where "we are fully in control of the virus, and not the virus in control of us". The endemic stage is when a population learns to live with a virus, very different from the epidemic stage when the virus overwhelms a population. Populations where more people were previously infected and where vaccination coverage is high are expected to be less impacted by the virus in the future than other populations, Singh told PTI in an interview. "The COVID-19 virus is expected to continue to transmit for a very long time. A multitude of factors will decide whether the virus will become endemic in the long run, chief among them is the level of immunity in a community, both through vaccination and previous infection, she said. Also read | India records 18,795 fresh COVID-19 cases, lowest in six months On the granting of emergency use authorisation (EUA) for the indigenously developed Covaxin, she said Bharat Biotech's dossier seeking WHO's Emergency Use Listing (EUL) is being reviewed by technical experts and "we can expect a decision when the process is complete". Also read | Covid pandemic: CEOs of Pfizer and Moderna say life will be back to normal in a year Discussing the role of booster doses to tackle waning immunity, Singh pointed out that cases and deaths in all countries are predominantly being driven by unvaccinated people. Using vaccines for booster doses constricts supply to countries where millions are still waiting for their first dose, she said. "Hence, WHO has called for a time-limited moratorium on COVID-19 booster doses until the end of 2021. This is to allow for at least 40 per cent of the population of each country - including those most at risk and health workers - to be vaccinated. We must remember that no one is safe till everyone is safe." Also read | 'Can't go unvaccinated': President Biden gets vaccine booster shot She said there is currently no conclusive evidence that COVID-19 vaccine efficacy against severe disease and death wanes significantly over time. The vaccines, the expert emphasised, have remained effective in preventing severe disease and death. "However, WHO has not ruled out that boosters for some population groups may be warranted in future. WHO's recommendations on boosters will be guided by the scientific evidence, which is still evolving," she said. "To make a recommendation on the use of booster doses for the general population, more data is needed on optimal timing, safety and dosage of booster doses, which may differ between vaccine products. More extensive research is needed to study the effect of booster doses in the body." According to Singh, eradication is unlikely but what we can do is to prevent or minimise deaths, hospitalisations, tragedy and social, economic and health loss due to this pandemic. Current evidence, she said, shows that protection levels around the world remain low and most people continue to be susceptible to the virus. "WHO continues to recommend a strong public health response based on risk assessment, and for people to continue to protect themselves by getting vaccinated, maintaining physical distance, wearing a mask, avoiding poorly ventilated spaces, cleaning hands and following respiratory hygiene." Referring to the probability of a third Covid wave, Singh said another surge and how intense it will be will depend on all of us. "If we together continue to adhere to public health and social measures and continue to vaccinate people as fast as possible, it will be hard for the virus to infect enough people to cause another wave," she said. "From experience globally, there is enough evidence that the public health and social measures work, even against the Variants of Concern that are spreading more rapidly, and these measures are critical to limiting transmission of COVID-19 and reducing deaths. For the public health and social measures to be effective, they must be implemented well and timely and must be tailored to local settings and conditions." On India's decision to restart exporting COVID-19 vaccines, Singh said there is need for equity of vaccination administration globally to ensure that the most vulnerable such as frontline workers and the elderly are fully vaccinated. "At the moment, several low and lower-middle-income countries are lagging behind in vaccinating their vulnerable populations. An equitable vaccine distribution will also help check the emergence of variants by halting the spread of the virus." Singh also noted that the pandemic has given "once-in-a-century opportunity" to strengthen the health system to build back better. "We must invest in strengthening health system resilience to ensure health security and achieve universal health coverage. It means allocation of more resources for health and its efficient governance," she said. Now is also the time for countries to take lessons from the pandemic to strengthen health systems in her view. "Strong health systems that are primary healthcare-oriented, and which leave no one behind, create populations that are healthier, more productive and financially secure. Resilient health systems are the bedrock of emergency preparedness and response, and ensure that when acute events occur, essential health services can be maintained," Singh said.

Covid virus expected to continue to transmit for a very long time, says WHO official

In order to address the twin challenges of climate change and malnutrition, India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday launched 35 crop varieties with special traits, saying that science and technology are being used on priority for solutions to tackle the climate change impact on agriculture.

These special traits crop varieties also include those that address the anti-nutritional factors found in some crops that adversely affect human and animal health.

Stating that climate change is adversely impacting agriculture, Modi said, “Due to climate change, new types of pests, new diseases, epidemics are coming. Due to this, there is a big threat to the health of humans and livestock and crops are also being affected.”

“Intensive research on these aspects is necessary continuously. When science, government and society work together, it gets even better results. This nexus of farmers and scientists will further strengthen the nation to face new challenges,” PM Modi said while addressing the nation via video conferencing.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-farmers-stage-nationwide-protests-against-reforms-416365">Indian farmers stage nationwide protests against reforms</a>

The prime minister also interacted with farmers from different states to take stock of how government schemes have benefited them.

During the interaction, the farmers also shared how they adopted new farm and processing techniques even in different terrains.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-international-politics-over-indian-farmers-is-a-dangerous-trend-348199">Why international politics over Indian farmers is a dangerous trend</a>

These special varieties of seeds have been developed by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), an autonomous body responsible for co-ordinating agricultural education and research in India.

It has produced the crop varieties, the body stated, with specific features to meet the twin concerns of climate change and malnutrition.

The 35 such crop varieties with ‘drought-tolerant’ characteristics include chickpea, wilt- and early-maturing soybean, disease-resistant rice varieties, and biofortified wheat, pearl millet, maize, and chickpea, quinoa, buckwheat, winged bean, and faba.

(With inputs from agencies)

In order to address the twin challenges of climate change and malnutrition, India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday launched 35 crop varieties with special traits, saying that science and technology are being used on priority for solutions to tackle the climate change impact on agriculture.

In order to address the twin challenges of climate change and malnutrition, India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday launched 35 crop varieties with special traits, saying that science and technology are being used on priority for solutions to tackle the climate change impact on agriculture. These special traits crop varieties also include those that address the anti-nutritional factors found in some crops that adversely affect human and animal health. Stating that climate change is adversely impacting agriculture, Modi said, “Due to climate change, new types of pests, new diseases, epidemics are coming. Due to this, there is a big threat to the health of humans and livestock and crops are also being affected.” “Intensive research on these aspects is necessary continuously. When science, government and society work together, it gets even better results. This nexus of farmers and scientists will further strengthen the nation to face new challenges,” PM Modi said while addressing the nation via video conferencing. Also read | Indian farmers stage nationwide protests against reforms The prime minister also interacted with farmers from different states to take stock of how government schemes have benefited them. During the interaction, the farmers also shared how they adopted new farm and processing techniques even in different terrains. Also read | Why international politics over Indian farmers is a dangerous trend These special varieties of seeds have been developed by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), an autonomous body responsible for co-ordinating agricultural education and research in India. It has produced the crop varieties, the body stated, with specific features to meet the twin concerns of climate change and malnutrition. The 35 such crop varieties with ‘drought-tolerant’ characteristics include chickpea, wilt- and early-maturing soybean, disease-resistant rice varieties, and biofortified wheat, pearl millet, maize, and chickpea, quinoa, buckwheat, winged bean, and faba. (With inputs from agencies)

India using scientific solutions to tackle climate change impact on agriculture: PM Modi

Prime Minister Modi on Sunday night visited the construction site of the new parliament building which is part of the Central Vista project.

The new parliament building is spread over 64,500 square metres. Reports say India's prime minister spoke to those involved in the construction of the new parliament as he inspected the work.

Watch:

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PM Modi reportedly spent one hour at the site which reports said was a surprise visit as it was not on the prime minister's schedule.

<img alt="PM Modi" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="392827f5-e871-487a-9309-912987af879b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Modi333.JPG" />

Reports say the new Parliament building will be completed in November next year with work going on at full scale.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/child-of-a-tea-seller-is-addressing-un-for-fourth-time-pm-modi-hails-strength-of-indian-democracy-415903">Also Read:&nbsp;PM Modi hails strength of Indian democracy at UNGA</a>

<img alt="PM Modi at Central Vista" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="cb3629de-8ad1-49eb-80ee-a774176c37b7" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Modi11.JPG" />

India's prime minister reached the site around 8:45 pm on Sunday evening as he inspected the work himself.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-uses-rabindranath-tagores-words-to-end-un-general-assembly-speech-what-it-means-415931">Also Read:&nbsp;PM Modi uses Rabindranath Tagore's words to end UN General Assembly speech</a>

The visit to the grand project came just hours after India's prime minister addressed the nation in his Mann ki Baat radio message.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/immense-potential-indian-pm-modi-urges-start-ups-to-pay-attention-to-herbal-products-416236">Also Read:&nbsp;&nbsp;PM Modi urges start-ups to pay attention to herbal products</a>

PM Modi had arrived from the US after attending the UN General Assembly and had met US President Joe Biden while also taking part in the Quad in-person meeting with Australian PM Scott Morrison, Japanese PM Yoshihide&nbsp;Suga along with the US president.

(With inputs from Agencies)

Prime Minister Modi on Sunday night visited the construction site of the new parliament building which is part of the Central Vista project. The new parliament building is spread over 64,500 square metres.

Prime Minister Modi on Sunday night visited the construction site of the new parliament building which is part of the Central Vista project. The new parliament building is spread over 64,500 square metres. Reports say India's prime minister spoke to those involved in the construction of the new parliament as he inspected the work. Watch: PM Modi reportedly spent one hour at the site which reports said was a surprise visit as it was not on the prime minister's schedule. Reports say the new Parliament building will be completed in November next year with work going on at full scale. Also Read: PM Modi hails strength of Indian democracy at UNGA India's prime minister reached the site around 8:45 pm on Sunday evening as he inspected the work himself. Also Read: PM Modi uses Rabindranath Tagore's words to end UN General Assembly speech The visit to the grand project came just hours after India's prime minister addressed the nation in his Mann ki Baat radio message. Also Read: PM Modi urges start-ups to pay attention to herbal products PM Modi had arrived from the US after attending the UN General Assembly and had met US President Joe Biden while also taking part in the Quad in-person meeting with Australian PM Scott Morrison, Japanese PM Yoshihide Suga along with the US president. (With inputs from Agencies)

Watch: PM Modi visits Central Vista construction area; inspects new parliament building site

With an aim to boost bilateral cooperation, Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar is visiting Mexico. His three-day tour to the country will begin on Sunday. &nbsp;&nbsp;

There will be discussions over trade and investment and other areas as well. This is Jaishankar's first visit to Mexico as external affairs minister.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;

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While announcing Jaishankar's visit, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said he is scheduled to participate in the commemorative events of the 200th anniversary of the consolidation of Mexican Independence, along with other leaders. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cyclone-gulab-makes-landfall-in-eastern-india-416199" hreflang="en">Cyclone Gulab makes landfall in eastern India</a>

"In addition to his meeting with Foreign Minister Marcelo Ebrard Casaubon, he will also call on the President of Mexico, Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador. The external affairs minister will also interact with the leading CEOs and the business community in Mexico," it added. &nbsp;

Mexico is India's second-largest trade partner in Latin America at this time. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-narendra-modis-secret-of-keeping-jetlag-away-during-busy-foreign-trips-revealed-416173" hreflang="en">PM Narendra Modi's 'secret' of keeping jetlag away during busy foreign trips revealed</a>

Earlier, Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held several bilateral meetings with global counterparts. These meetings took place on the sidelines of the annual high-level UN General Assembly session. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The leaders discussed issues relating to Afghanistan and the Indo-Pacific. Jaishankar met French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Jean-Yves Le Drian, Iran's Minister of Foreign Affairs H Amirabdollahian, Egypt's Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry and Australian Minister for Foreign Affairs Marise Payne. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

With an aim to boost bilateral cooperation, Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar is visiting Mexico. His three-day tour to the country will begin on Sunday.

With an aim to boost bilateral cooperation, Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar is visiting Mexico. His three-day tour to the country will begin on Sunday. There will be discussions over trade and investment and other areas as well. This is Jaishankar's first visit to Mexico as external affairs minister. Watch: × While announcing Jaishankar's visit, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said he is scheduled to participate in the commemorative events of the 200th anniversary of the consolidation of Mexican Independence, along with other leaders. Also Read: Cyclone Gulab makes landfall in eastern India "In addition to his meeting with Foreign Minister Marcelo Ebrard Casaubon, he will also call on the President of Mexico, Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador. The external affairs minister will also interact with the leading CEOs and the business community in Mexico," it added. Mexico is India's second-largest trade partner in Latin America at this time. Also Read: PM Narendra Modi's 'secret' of keeping jetlag away during busy foreign trips revealed Earlier, Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held several bilateral meetings with global counterparts. These meetings took place on the sidelines of the annual high-level UN General Assembly session. The leaders discussed issues relating to Afghanistan and the Indo-Pacific. Jaishankar met French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Jean-Yves Le Drian, Iran's Minister of Foreign Affairs H Amirabdollahian, Egypt's Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry and Australian Minister for Foreign Affairs Marise Payne. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on three-day visit to Mexico  

Nepal Foreign Minister Narayan Khadka and his Indian counterpart S Jaishankar on Sunday discussed various matters of bilateral and multilateral affairs in New York and exchanged views on further promoting cooperation between the two countries.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The development comes after a bilateral meeting was held between Khadka and Jaishankar on the sidelines of the 76th session of the United Nations General Assembly.&nbsp;

According to the Nepal Foreign Ministry, Khadka thanked the Indian government for continued cooperation in the socio-economic development of Nepal.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-nepal-to-hold-annual-joint-military-exercise-from-september-20-410856">India, Nepal to hold annual joint military exercise from September 20</a>

“The two sides also discussed the challenges posed by the COVID-19 on the lives and livelihoods of peoples of both the countries and agreed to work together in fighting the virus,” Foreign Ministry of Nepal said in a statement.&nbsp;

External Affairs Minister Jaishankar further agreed to strengthen the existing cooperation between the two countries.&nbsp; &nbsp;

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Pleased to welcome my new Nepali colleague, Dr. Narayan Khadka. 
 
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“Pleased to welcome my new Nepali colleague, Dr Narayan Khadka. Agreed that we should work together closely to take our special relationship forward,” Jaishankar said in a tweet.&nbsp;

Later in the day, the Foreign Minister visited the office of the Consulate General of Nepal in New York. &nbsp;

“He instructed officials of the Consulate General to deliver consular services efficiently and promote economic diplomacy of Nepal giving particular attention to export trade, investment, and tourism,” it added.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-nepals-bittersweet-relationship-a-historical-friendship-turning-grim-307808">India-Nepal's bittersweet relationship: a historical friendship turning grim</a>

In addition, Khadka also attended the interaction program with Nepali diaspora which was co-organized by the office of the Consulate General, Non-Resident Nepali (NRN) Association&nbsp;and Nepali community organizations.&nbsp;

He underscored the role of NRNs in Nepal’s socio-economic development largely in the sectors of investment, culture and tourism promotion, and urged them to contribute to Kathmandu’s development efforts.

Earlier, on the sidelines of UNGA, Khadka also held a bilateral meeting with his Bangladesh counterpart AK Abdul Momen, and both sides focused on the need for enhanced collaboration in the areas of trade, investment, hydropower development and cross-border energy trade among others.

Nepal Foreign Minister Narayan Khadka and his Indian counterpart S Jaishankar on Sunday discussed various matters of bilateral and multilateral affairs in New York and exchanged views on further promoting cooperation between the two countries.

Nepal Foreign Minister Narayan Khadka and his Indian counterpart S Jaishankar on Sunday discussed various matters of bilateral and multilateral affairs in New York and exchanged views on further promoting cooperation between the two countries. The development comes after a bilateral meeting was held between Khadka and Jaishankar on the sidelines of the 76th session of the United Nations General Assembly. According to the Nepal Foreign Ministry, Khadka thanked the Indian government for continued cooperation in the socio-economic development of Nepal. Also read | India, Nepal to hold annual joint military exercise from September 20 “The two sides also discussed the challenges posed by the COVID-19 on the lives and livelihoods of peoples of both the countries and agreed to work together in fighting the virus,” Foreign Ministry of Nepal said in a statement. External Affairs Minister Jaishankar further agreed to strengthen the existing cooperation between the two countries. Pleased to welcome my new Nepali colleague, Dr. Narayan Khadka. Agreed that we should work together closely to take our special relationship forward. pic.twitter.com/NA5D3PYBjC — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) September 26, 2021 × “Pleased to welcome my new Nepali colleague, Dr Narayan Khadka. Agreed that we should work together closely to take our special relationship forward,” Jaishankar said in a tweet. Later in the day, the Foreign Minister visited the office of the Consulate General of Nepal in New York. “He instructed officials of the Consulate General to deliver consular services efficiently and promote economic diplomacy of Nepal giving particular attention to export trade, investment, and tourism,” it added. Also read | India-Nepal's bittersweet relationship: a historical friendship turning grim In addition, Khadka also attended the interaction program with Nepali diaspora which was co-organized by the office of the Consulate General, Non-Resident Nepali (NRN) Association and Nepali community organizations. He underscored the role of NRNs in Nepal’s socio-economic development largely in the sectors of investment, culture and tourism promotion, and urged them to contribute to Kathmandu’s development efforts. Earlier, on the sidelines of UNGA, Khadka also held a bilateral meeting with his Bangladesh counterpart AK Abdul Momen, and both sides focused on the need for enhanced collaboration in the areas of trade, investment, hydropower development and cross-border energy trade among others.

Nepal, India agree to further promote existing cooperation between countries 

The Supreme Court Monday granted three weeks time to the owner of the fishing vessel to respond to a plea of some Kerala fishermen seeking shares from Rs two crore compensation, to be paid to him for the 2012 incident in which his boat 'St Antony' was fired at by the Italian marines killing two fishermen.

A bench comprising Justices Indira Banerjee and JK Maheshwari took note of the submission of lawyer A Karthik, appearing for the boat owner Freddy, that he be granted some time to respond to the plea of the surviving fishermen who wanted shares from his portion of Rs 2 crore ( 20 million rupees) compensation&nbsp;yet to be disbursed.

"Three weeks time has been granted to file the counter affidavit (reply). One week thereafter (granted) for filing rejoinder. List after six weeks,"&nbsp;the bench said, adding that the state government can also file its response to the plea.

Earlier, the apex court had directed the Kerala High Court not to disburse any amount from Rs 2 crore ( 20 million rupees) earmarked for the owner of the fishing vessel.

The plea filed by seven, out of ten surviving fishermen who were also on the boat, said that they too were eligible for the compensation from Rs 2 crore&nbsp;( 20 million rupees) earmarked by the apex court for the boat owner.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta had suggested that the fishermen's plea can be sent to the Kerala High Court which is entrusted with the task of disbursing the compensation, to which the bench had said a notice to vessel owner Freddy was necessary as any modification in the order will reduce his share.

"The notice of this application be given to the boat owner and in the meanwhile, we request the Kerala High Court not to disburse any amount to the boat owner in terms of the June 15, 2021 order,"&nbsp;the bench had said in its order.

Freddy, for whom Rs two crore out of total Rs 10 crore compensation has been earmarked, was also paid Rs 17 lakh (1.7 million rupees) ex-gratia earlier for the damage to the vessel which was worth Rs 10 lakh only, the counsel for the fishermen had said.

Urging the top court to modify its June 15 order by providing some compensation to the surviving fishermen, the lawyer had said that one of the four grounds for seeking damages in the case was injuries, including mental, which were also sustained by his clients.

"Kerala government has now said no compensation will be given to us on account of the latest order of the Supreme Court and we just want that the Rs 2 crore compensation, payable to the boat owner, be stayed,"&nbsp;he had said.

The bench had said Freddy should be made party instead of the Centre as only he can oppose this plea.

On June 15, the top court had brought the curtains down on the 9-year old pending criminal proceedings in India against two Italian marines, Massimilano Latorre and Salvatore Girone, who were accused of killing the two fishermen, after Rs 10 crore in compensation was paid by Italy to the heirs of the deceased and the boat owner.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-closes-case-against-italian-marines-for-killing-indian-fishermen-compensation-announced-391718">Supreme Court closes case against Italian marines for killing Indian fishermen; compensation announced</a>

It had directed Rs 4 crore each be given to the dependents of two deceased fishermen and the rest Rs 2 crore would be given to the vessel owner.

The top court had referred the matter to the Kerala High Court to oversee the disbursement.

In the fresh plea, the fishermen said they were also injured in the incident and hence, entitled to compensation. They have sought a stay on the disbursement till their claims are determined.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/deposit-compensation-for-indian-fishermen-killed-by-italian-marines-sc-tells-centre-376270">Deposit compensation for Indian fishermen killed by Italian marines, SC tells Centre</a>

The top court had also said earlier that as per the international arbitral award accepted by India, Italy shall resume further investigation in the case against the two marines and quashed the FIR, registered at Coastal Police Station of Neendakara, Kollam in Kerala and re-registered by NIA in 2013, and all the proceedings in the case.

It had closed the case after the Arbitral Tribunal constituted under Annex VII of UNCLOS delivered its award on May 21, 2020, under which Italy agreed to pay Rs 10 crore compensation, over the ex-gratia amount already paid.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/indias-top-court-allows-italian-marine-to-stay-in-italy-6903">India's top court allows Italian marine to stay in Italy</a>

"We also further direct that the amount of Rs 10 crore (100 million rupees) now lying with the Registry of this Court be transferred to the High Court of Kerala, out of which Rs 4 crore be paid to the heirs of each deceased and Rs 2 crores ( 2 million rupees) be paid to the owner of the boat - St. Antony,"&nbsp;the bench had said.

It had requested the Chief Justice of the Kerala High Court to nominate a Judge to pass appropriate order of disbursement/investment of the amount to the heirs and ensure the compensation is duly received by them and not diverted/ misappropriated.

"The remaining amount of Rs two crore be paid to the owner of the boat - St. Antony by an account payee cheque,"&nbsp;the bench had said.

The top court noted that Kerala, the heirs of the deceased fishermen and the owner of the boat have agreed to accept the award.

In February 2012, India had accused the two marines on board the MV Enrica Lexie -- an Italian flagged oil tanker -- of killing two Indian fishermen who were on a fishing vessel in India's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).

Latorre, who had suffered a brain stroke on August 31, 2014, was first granted bail and allowed by the apex court on September 12, 2014, to go to Italy for four months and after that, extensions have been granted to him.

In Italy, Latorre underwent heart surgery after which the top court granted him an extension of his stay in his native country.

The complaint against the marines was lodged by Freddy on whose vessel two Kerala fishermen were killed when marines opened fire on them under the misconception that they were pirates.&nbsp;

The Supreme Court Monday granted three weeks time to the owner of the fishing vessel to respond to a plea of some Kerala fishermen seeking shares from Rs two crore compensation, to be paid to him for the 2012 incident in which his boat 'St Antony' was fired at by the Italian marines killing two fishermen.

The Supreme Court Monday granted three weeks time to the owner of the fishing vessel to respond to a plea of some Kerala fishermen seeking shares from Rs two crore compensation, to be paid to him for the 2012 incident in which his boat 'St Antony' was fired at by the Italian marines killing two fishermen. A bench comprising Justices Indira Banerjee and JK Maheshwari took note of the submission of lawyer A Karthik, appearing for the boat owner Freddy, that he be granted some time to respond to the plea of the surviving fishermen who wanted shares from his portion of Rs 2 crore ( 20 million rupees) compensation yet to be disbursed. "Three weeks time has been granted to file the counter affidavit (reply). One week thereafter (granted) for filing rejoinder. List after six weeks," the bench said, adding that the state government can also file its response to the plea. Earlier, the apex court had directed the Kerala High Court not to disburse any amount from Rs 2 crore ( 20 million rupees) earmarked for the owner of the fishing vessel. The plea filed by seven, out of ten surviving fishermen who were also on the boat, said that they too were eligible for the compensation from Rs 2 crore ( 20 million rupees) earmarked by the apex court for the boat owner. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta had suggested that the fishermen's plea can be sent to the Kerala High Court which is entrusted with the task of disbursing the compensation, to which the bench had said a notice to vessel owner Freddy was necessary as any modification in the order will reduce his share. "The notice of this application be given to the boat owner and in the meanwhile, we request the Kerala High Court not to disburse any amount to the boat owner in terms of the June 15, 2021 order," the bench had said in its order. Freddy, for whom Rs two crore out of total Rs 10 crore compensation has been earmarked, was also paid Rs 17 lakh (1.7 million rupees) ex-gratia earlier for the damage to the vessel which was worth Rs 10 lakh only, the counsel for the fishermen had said. Urging the top court to modify its June 15 order by providing some compensation to the surviving fishermen, the lawyer had said that one of the four grounds for seeking damages in the case was injuries, including mental, which were also sustained by his clients. "Kerala government has now said no compensation will be given to us on account of the latest order of the Supreme Court and we just want that the Rs 2 crore compensation, payable to the boat owner, be stayed," he had said. The bench had said Freddy should be made party instead of the Centre as only he can oppose this plea. On June 15, the top court had brought the curtains down on the 9-year old pending criminal proceedings in India against two Italian marines, Massimilano Latorre and Salvatore Girone, who were accused of killing the two fishermen, after Rs 10 crore in compensation was paid by Italy to the heirs of the deceased and the boat owner. Also read | Supreme Court closes case against Italian marines for killing Indian fishermen; compensation announced It had directed Rs 4 crore each be given to the dependents of two deceased fishermen and the rest Rs 2 crore would be given to the vessel owner. The top court had referred the matter to the Kerala High Court to oversee the disbursement. In the fresh plea, the fishermen said they were also injured in the incident and hence, entitled to compensation. They have sought a stay on the disbursement till their claims are determined. Also read | Deposit compensation for Indian fishermen killed by Italian marines, SC tells Centre The top court had also said earlier that as per the international arbitral award accepted by India, Italy shall resume further investigation in the case against the two marines and quashed the FIR, registered at Coastal Police Station of Neendakara, Kollam in Kerala and re-registered by NIA in 2013, and all the proceedings in the case. It had closed the case after the Arbitral Tribunal constituted under Annex VII of UNCLOS delivered its award on May 21, 2020, under which Italy agreed to pay Rs 10 crore compensation, over the ex-gratia amount already paid. Also read | India's top court allows Italian marine to stay in Italy "We also further direct that the amount of Rs 10 crore (100 million rupees) now lying with the Registry of this Court be transferred to the High Court of Kerala, out of which Rs 4 crore be paid to the heirs of each deceased and Rs 2 crores ( 2 million rupees) be paid to the owner of the boat - St. Antony," the bench had said. It had requested the Chief Justice of the Kerala High Court to nominate a Judge to pass appropriate order of disbursement/investment of the amount to the heirs and ensure the compensation is duly received by them and not diverted/ misappropriated. "The remaining amount of Rs two crore be paid to the owner of the boat - St. Antony by an account payee cheque," the bench had said. The top court noted that Kerala, the heirs of the deceased fishermen and the owner of the boat have agreed to accept the award. In February 2012, India had accused the two marines on board the MV Enrica Lexie -- an Italian flagged oil tanker -- of killing two Indian fishermen who were on a fishing vessel in India's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). Latorre, who had suffered a brain stroke on August 31, 2014, was first granted bail and allowed by the apex court on September 12, 2014, to go to Italy for four months and after that, extensions have been granted to him. In Italy, Latorre underwent heart surgery after which the top court granted him an extension of his stay in his native country. The complaint against the marines was lodged by Freddy on whose vessel two Kerala fishermen were killed when marines opened fire on them under the misconception that they were pirates.

Italian marines: India's Supreme Court grants 3 weeks to vessel owner to reply to plea of fishermen for compensation

Indian farmers opposed to reforms they say threaten their livelihoods renewed their push against the changes with nationwide protests on Monday, a year after laws on the liberalisation of the sector were introduced.

For 10 months, tens of thousands of farmers have camped out on major highways around the capital, New Delhi, to oppose the laws in the longest-running growers` protest against Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government.

"Thousands of farmers have spread out to different districts to ensure a complete nationwide strike aimed at reminding the government to repeal the laws introduced to favour large private corporations," Rakesh Tikait, a prominent farmers` leader, told Reuters.

In Noida, a New Delhi satellite town, farmers confronted police and pushed past them to break through barricades. There were no immediate reports of any injuries or arrests.

In Gurgaon - another satellite town near the capital`s main airport - farmers thronged onto a road and blocked traffic, while protesters stormed into a railway station in the northern outskirts of New Delhi, a Reuters witness said.

Nearly a dozen opposition parties have supported the farmers` protest to step up pressure on Modi’s administration to repeal the laws..

The legislation, introduced in September last year, deregulates the agriculture sector and allows farmers to sell produce to buyers beyond government-regulated wholesale markets, where growers are assured of a minimum price.

Small farmers say the changes make them vulnerable to competition from big business, and that they could eventually lose price supports for staples such as wheat and rice.

The government says the reforms mean new opportunities and better prices for farmers.

Farming sustains almost half of India`s more than 1.3 billion people and accounts for about 15% of the $2.7 trillion economy.

Farmer union leaders say their protests did not disrupt emergency services.

The protests have been generally peaceful but police and farmers clashed in New Delhi in January during a tractor procession and one protester was killed and more than 80 police were injured.

Indian farmers opposed to reforms they say threaten their livelihoods renewed their push against the changes with nationwide protests on Monday, a year after laws on the liberalisation of the sector were introduced.

Indian farmers opposed to reforms they say threaten their livelihoods renewed their push against the changes with nationwide protests on Monday, a year after laws on the liberalisation of the sector were introduced. For 10 months, tens of thousands of farmers have camped out on major highways around the capital, New Delhi, to oppose the laws in the longest-running growers` protest against Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government. "Thousands of farmers have spread out to different districts to ensure a complete nationwide strike aimed at reminding the government to repeal the laws introduced to favour large private corporations," Rakesh Tikait, a prominent farmers` leader, told Reuters. In Noida, a New Delhi satellite town, farmers confronted police and pushed past them to break through barricades. There were no immediate reports of any injuries or arrests. In Gurgaon - another satellite town near the capital`s main airport - farmers thronged onto a road and blocked traffic, while protesters stormed into a railway station in the northern outskirts of New Delhi, a Reuters witness said. Nearly a dozen opposition parties have supported the farmers` protest to step up pressure on Modi’s administration to repeal the laws.. The legislation, introduced in September last year, deregulates the agriculture sector and allows farmers to sell produce to buyers beyond government-regulated wholesale markets, where growers are assured of a minimum price. Small farmers say the changes make them vulnerable to competition from big business, and that they could eventually lose price supports for staples such as wheat and rice. The government says the reforms mean new opportunities and better prices for farmers. Farming sustains almost half of India`s more than 1.3 billion people and accounts for about 15% of the $2.7 trillion economy. Farmer union leaders say their protests did not disrupt emergency services. The protests have been generally peaceful but police and farmers clashed in New Delhi in January during a tractor procession and one protester was killed and more than 80 police were injured.

Indian farmers stage nationwide protests against reforms

The DRDO tested a new version of the Akash Missile, Akash Prime, that intercepted and destroyed an unmanned aerial target mimicking an enemy aircraft in Odisha's Chandipur.

India successfully tested a new variant of the Akash Missile – ‘Akash Prime' from the Integrated Test Range (ITR) in Odisha's Chandipur on Monday, September 27.

According to the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the missile intercepted and destroyed an unmanned aerial target that mimicked enemy aircraft in its first flight test following upgrades.

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DRDO today conducts Successful Maiden Flight Test of Akash Prime Missile from Integrated Test Range (ITR), Chandipur, Odisha. <a href="https://t.co/QlvMHtTWVj">pic.twitter.com/QlvMHtTWVj</a>
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The Akash Prime missile can be seen launching into the sky from the ground in a video provided by the DRDO.

The missile successfully detonates on impact with an unmanned aerial target after cruising in the skies for a few seconds.&nbsp;

The air test used a modified ground system from the existing Akash weapon system.

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the Indian Army, the Indian Air Force, and other stakeholders have been congratulated on the successful trial of the Akash primary missile, according to Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.

The successful flight test, he said, demonstrates the DRDO's capability in designing and developing world-class missile systems.

G Satheesh Reddy, Chairman of the DRDO, commended the crew on the missile's successful flight test.&nbsp;

The Indian Army and Air Force will have much greater confidence in the Akash Prime system, he said, because the Akash system has already been inducted and is now being enhanced with more powerful missiles.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The DRDO tested a new version of the Akash Missile, Akash Prime, that intercepted and destroyed an unmanned aerial target mimicking an enemy aircraft in Odisha's Chandipur.

The DRDO tested a new version of the Akash Missile, Akash Prime, that intercepted and destroyed an unmanned aerial target mimicking an enemy aircraft in Odisha's Chandipur. India successfully tested a new variant of the Akash Missile – ‘Akash Prime' from the Integrated Test Range (ITR) in Odisha's Chandipur on Monday, September 27. According to the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the missile intercepted and destroyed an unmanned aerial target that mimicked enemy aircraft in its first flight test following upgrades. DRDO today conducts Successful Maiden Flight Test of Akash Prime Missile from Integrated Test Range (ITR), Chandipur, Odisha. pic.twitter.com/QlvMHtTWVj — DRDO (@DRDO_India) September 27, 2021 × The Akash Prime missile can be seen launching into the sky from the ground in a video provided by the DRDO. The missile successfully detonates on impact with an unmanned aerial target after cruising in the skies for a few seconds. The air test used a modified ground system from the existing Akash weapon system. The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the Indian Army, the Indian Air Force, and other stakeholders have been congratulated on the successful trial of the Akash primary missile, according to Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. The successful flight test, he said, demonstrates the DRDO's capability in designing and developing world-class missile systems. G Satheesh Reddy, Chairman of the DRDO, commended the crew on the missile's successful flight test. The Indian Army and Air Force will have much greater confidence in the Akash Prime system, he said, because the Akash system has already been inducted and is now being enhanced with more powerful missiles. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: India successfully tests 'Akash Prime' missile, destroys aerial target

&nbsp;India is becoming an important country for Germany in the Indo-Pacific region and the next coalition government in Berlin is expected to continue strong ties with New Delhi, German Ambassador Walter J Lindner said on Monday.

He said relations between India and Germany saw a significant upswing including in areas of trade and investment in the last over one decade and that the upward trajectory in ties is likely to continue.

"None of the global issues can be solved without India, be it climate change, global warming, trade issues, COVID-19 vaccination and terrorism...India is important for us," he told reporters.

His comments came as a new coalition government is expected to take the reins in Berlin following the parliamentary elections.

According to reports, Social Democrats (SPD) was ahead of the ruling conservative bloc of Angela Merkel in the federal elections.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-over-till-its-over-gruelling-coalition-talks-await-post-merkel-germany-after-polls-416326">Not over till it's over: Gruelling coalition talks await post-Merkel Germany after polls</a>

The federal elections marked the end of Merkel's 16-year tenure as the German Chancellor, a period that saw significant expansion of India-Germany ties. Merkel has already announced that she will not seek a fresh term at the helm of the country.

"The Indo-Pacific is becoming more and more important and India has emerged as a major player in the region," the German envoy said.

On Afghanistan, he said there was a need to address the need for humanitarian assistance in the country.

Referring to the Taliban's takeover of Kabul, he said the world community failed to properly predict the speed with which the group took over the country.

India is becoming an important country for Germany in the Indo-Pacific region and the next coalition government in Berlin is expected to continue strong ties with New Delhi, German Ambassador Walter J Lindner said on Monday.

India is becoming an important country for Germany in the Indo-Pacific region and the next coalition government in Berlin is expected to continue strong ties with New Delhi, German Ambassador Walter J Lindner said on Monday. He said relations between India and Germany saw a significant upswing including in areas of trade and investment in the last over one decade and that the upward trajectory in ties is likely to continue. "None of the global issues can be solved without India, be it climate change, global warming, trade issues, COVID-19 vaccination and terrorism...India is important for us," he told reporters. His comments came as a new coalition government is expected to take the reins in Berlin following the parliamentary elections. According to reports, Social Democrats (SPD) was ahead of the ruling conservative bloc of Angela Merkel in the federal elections. Also read | Not over till it's over: Gruelling coalition talks await post-Merkel Germany after polls The federal elections marked the end of Merkel's 16-year tenure as the German Chancellor, a period that saw significant expansion of India-Germany ties. Merkel has already announced that she will not seek a fresh term at the helm of the country. "The Indo-Pacific is becoming more and more important and India has emerged as a major player in the region," the German envoy said. On Afghanistan, he said there was a need to address the need for humanitarian assistance in the country. Referring to the Taliban's takeover of Kabul, he said the world community failed to properly predict the speed with which the group took over the country.

New German govt expected to continue strong ties with India: German envoy

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