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Ford&nbsp;Motor Co will stop manufacturing in India and take a hit of about $2 billion as it does not see a path to profitability in the country, becoming the latest automaker to leave a major growth market dominated by Asian rivals.

The decision by&nbsp;Ford&nbsp;comes after it struggled for years to win over Indian consumers and turn a profit. The carmaker entered India 25 years ago but has a less than 2% share of the passenger vehicles market.

In its statement,&nbsp;Ford&nbsp;said it accumulated operating losses of more than $2 billion in 10 years in India and demand for its new vehicles had been weak.

"Despite (our) efforts, we have not been able to find a sustainable path forward to long-term profitability,"&nbsp;Ford&nbsp;India head Anurag Mehrotra said in the statement.

"The decision was reinforced by years of accumulated losses, persistent industry overcapacity and lack of expected growth in India's car market," he said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-to-send-warships-to-pacific-on-extended-deployment-411788">Also read |&nbsp;UK to send warships to Pacific on extended deployment</a>

Ford&nbsp;follows other US carmakers such as General Motors and Harley Davidson which have already left India, a market that had once promised exponential growth. The country is dominated by mainly low-cost cars made by Suzuki Motor Corp and Hyundai Motor.

As part of the plan,&nbsp;Ford&nbsp;India will wind down operations at its plant in Sanand in the western state of Gujarat by the fourth quarter of 2021 and vehicle and engine manufacturing in its southern Indian plant in Chennai by 2022.

The U.S. automaker will continue to sell some of its cars in India through imports and it will also provide support to dealers to service existing customers, it said. Around 4,000 employees are expected to be affected by its decision.

The decision to stop production in India comes after&nbsp;Ford&nbsp;and domestic carmaker Mahindra &amp; Mahindra failed to finalise a joint venture partnership&nbsp;that would have allowed&nbsp;Ford&nbsp;to continue producing cars at a lower cost than currently but cease its independent operations.

The company said the decision to cease production was made after considering several other options including partnerships, platform sharing, contract manufacturing and the possibility of selling its manufacturing plants, which is still under review.

Ford Motor Co will stop manufacturing in India and take a hit of about $2 billion as it does not see a path to profitability in the country, becoming the latest automaker to leave a major growth market dominated by Asian rivals.

Ford Motor Co will stop manufacturing in India and take a hit of about $2 billion as it does not see a path to profitability in the country, becoming the latest automaker to leave a major growth market dominated by Asian rivals. The decision by Ford comes after it struggled for years to win over Indian consumers and turn a profit. The carmaker entered India 25 years ago but has a less than 2% share of the passenger vehicles market. In its statement, Ford said it accumulated operating losses of more than $2 billion in 10 years in India and demand for its new vehicles had been weak. "Despite (our) efforts, we have not been able to find a sustainable path forward to long-term profitability," Ford India head Anurag Mehrotra said in the statement. "The decision was reinforced by years of accumulated losses, persistent industry overcapacity and lack of expected growth in India's car market," he said. Also read | UK to send warships to Pacific on extended deployment Ford follows other US carmakers such as General Motors and Harley Davidson which have already left India, a market that had once promised exponential growth. The country is dominated by mainly low-cost cars made by Suzuki Motor Corp and Hyundai Motor. As part of the plan, Ford India will wind down operations at its plant in Sanand in the western state of Gujarat by the fourth quarter of 2021 and vehicle and engine manufacturing in its southern Indian plant in Chennai by 2022. The U.S. automaker will continue to sell some of its cars in India through imports and it will also provide support to dealers to service existing customers, it said. Around 4,000 employees are expected to be affected by its decision. The decision to stop production in India comes after Ford and domestic carmaker Mahindra & Mahindra failed to finalise a joint venture partnership that would have allowed Ford to continue producing cars at a lower cost than currently but cease its independent operations. The company said the decision to cease production was made after considering several other options including partnerships, platform sharing, contract manufacturing and the possibility of selling its manufacturing plants, which is still under review.

Ford to end manufacturing in India, take $2 billion hit

The management of Ford India Private Ltd is yet to come out with their plans for the workers who will be affected by the closure of its three plants — two in the southern state of Tamil Nadu's Chennai and one in the western state of Gujarat's Sanand, said a union official.

On September 9, Ford India announced that it will wind down vehicle assembly in Sanand by the fourth quarter of 2021 and vehicle and engine manufacturing in Chennai by the second quarter of 2022.

Ford India has four plants in the country — vehicle and engine plants in Chennai and Sanand.

Ford India has decided to continue operating the engine plant in Sanand while closing down the other three.

“On Monday, the Sanand plant management had a discussion with us. They wanted to know whether we have any questions on the company’s decision to close down the plants,” Sanand workers’ union General Secretary Nayan Kateshiya told IANS.

“We had asked them about the future of the engine plant workers and how long it would be operational. We also asked them about the future of the plants that are to be closed, whether they would be sold/leased out,” Kateshiya added.

According to him, the management had no answer and said they would revert.

“Work on completing the assembly of the cars that are remaining on the production lines is being done. The engine plant is running.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ford-to-end-manufacturing-in-india-take-2-billion-hit-411902">Ford to end manufacturing in India, take $2 billion hit</a>

Meanwhile, the Chennai Ford Employees Union (CFEU) in a statement said it does not accept Ford India’s decision of closing down the plants.

The CFEU has requested the company management to ensure jobs for the workers at the Chennai plant with the proposed buyer of the factory.

The company management is having a meeting with CFEU officials on Tuesday.

Ford’s quit India decision will result in an uncertain future for about 5,300 employees – workers and staff, Union officials said.

According to Union officials, Ford India’s Chennai plant has about 2,700 associates (permanent workers) and about 600 staff.

“In Sanand, the number of workers will be about 2,000,” Kateshiya said.

Ford India had said more than 500 employees at the Sanand engine plant, which produces engines for export, and about 100 employees supporting parts distribution and customer service, also will continue to support Ford’s business in India.

According to Ford India, about 4,000 employees are expected to be affected by its decision.

The management of Ford India Private Ltd is yet to come out with their plans for the workers who will be affected by the closure of its three plants — two in the southern state of Tamil Nadu's Chennai and one in the western state of Gujarat's Sanand, said a union official.

The management of Ford India Private Ltd is yet to come out with their plans for the workers who will be affected by the closure of its three plants — two in the southern state of Tamil Nadu's Chennai and one in the western state of Gujarat's Sanand, said a union official. On September 9, Ford India announced that it will wind down vehicle assembly in Sanand by the fourth quarter of 2021 and vehicle and engine manufacturing in Chennai by the second quarter of 2022. Ford India has four plants in the country — vehicle and engine plants in Chennai and Sanand. Ford India has decided to continue operating the engine plant in Sanand while closing down the other three. “On Monday, the Sanand plant management had a discussion with us. They wanted to know whether we have any questions on the company’s decision to close down the plants,” Sanand workers’ union General Secretary Nayan Kateshiya told IANS. “We had asked them about the future of the engine plant workers and how long it would be operational. We also asked them about the future of the plants that are to be closed, whether they would be sold/leased out,” Kateshiya added. According to him, the management had no answer and said they would revert. “Work on completing the assembly of the cars that are remaining on the production lines is being done. The engine plant is running.” Also read | Ford to end manufacturing in India, take $2 billion hit Meanwhile, the Chennai Ford Employees Union (CFEU) in a statement said it does not accept Ford India’s decision of closing down the plants. The CFEU has requested the company management to ensure jobs for the workers at the Chennai plant with the proposed buyer of the factory. The company management is having a meeting with CFEU officials on Tuesday. Ford’s quit India decision will result in an uncertain future for about 5,300 employees – workers and staff, Union officials said. According to Union officials, Ford India’s Chennai plant has about 2,700 associates (permanent workers) and about 600 staff. “In Sanand, the number of workers will be about 2,000,” Kateshiya said. Ford India had said more than 500 employees at the Sanand engine plant, which produces engines for export, and about 100 employees supporting parts distribution and customer service, also will continue to support Ford’s business in India. According to Ford India, about 4,000 employees are expected to be affected by its decision.

Ford India yet to spell out plans for workers affected by closure

After Indian state Mizoram, an outbreak of African swine disease has been recorded in the Kanchanpur sub-division of the North Tripura district, with three of 87 samples proving positive for the virus.

Following the epidemic, K Shashi Kumar, the head of the animal resource development department, ordered that all pigs within a 1-kilometre radius of the epicentre be slaughtered, and a 10-kilometre zone be monitored.&nbsp;

“Three of 87 samples of pigs tested positive for African swine fever. We’ll cull all pigs within 1km from the epicentre and declare the 10km area as a surveillance zone. We’ve issued notification and begun the culling process,” he said. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hog-hotel-10000-pigs-kept-in-high-security-building-in-china-to-keep-out-swine-flu-other-viruses-402398">Also read | 'Hog hotel': 10,000 pigs kept in high-security building in China to keep out swine flu, other viruses</a> 
&nbsp;

What is African Swine Fever (ASF)?

A viral disease that affects pigs is known as African Swine Fever (ASF).

ASF is thought to spread quickly and has a near-100 per cent case fatality rate.

Direct contact with an infected or wild pig (alive or dead), indirect contact through consumption of contaminated food or waste, or even biological vectors such as ticks are all ways for the virus to spread.

According to health experts, the ASF outbreak poses no risk to human health and cannot be passed from pigs to humans biologically.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-swine-fever-in-china-is-likely-caused-by-illicit-vaccines-358469">Also read | Why swine fever in China is likely caused by illicit vaccines</a>

Cases in Mizoram

On March 21, the first incidence of an ASF epidemic was recorded in the Lungsen village of south Mizoram.

It is located in the district of Lunglei, which is near the Bangladesh border.

In mid-April, the National Institute of High-Security Animal Diseases in Bhopal determined that the ASF was the cause of the pig deaths.

Throughout the last five months, the illness has claimed the lives of almost 25,000 pigs in the state.

Since late March, the deaths of so many pigs had resulted in a loss of about Rs 1.21 billion.

To prevent the spread of disease, state officials had to authorise the culling of nearly 9,500 pigs, according to a senior official from the state animal husbandry and veterinary science department.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

After Indian state Mizoram, an outbreak of African swine disease has been recorded in the Kanchanpur sub-division of the North Tripura district, with three of 87 samples proving positive for the virus.

After Indian state Mizoram, an outbreak of African swine disease has been recorded in the Kanchanpur sub-division of the North Tripura district, with three of 87 samples proving positive for the virus. Following the epidemic, K Shashi Kumar, the head of the animal resource development department, ordered that all pigs within a 1-kilometre radius of the epicentre be slaughtered, and a 10-kilometre zone be monitored. “Three of 87 samples of pigs tested positive for African swine fever. We’ll cull all pigs within 1km from the epicentre and declare the 10km area as a surveillance zone. We’ve issued notification and begun the culling process,” he said. Also read | 'Hog hotel': 10,000 pigs kept in high-security building in China to keep out swine flu, other viruses What is African Swine Fever (ASF)? A viral disease that affects pigs is known as African Swine Fever (ASF). ASF is thought to spread quickly and has a near-100 per cent case fatality rate. Direct contact with an infected or wild pig (alive or dead), indirect contact through consumption of contaminated food or waste, or even biological vectors such as ticks are all ways for the virus to spread. According to health experts, the ASF outbreak poses no risk to human health and cannot be passed from pigs to humans biologically. Also read | Why swine fever in China is likely caused by illicit vaccines Cases in Mizoram On March 21, the first incidence of an ASF epidemic was recorded in the Lungsen village of south Mizoram. It is located in the district of Lunglei, which is near the Bangladesh border. In mid-April, the National Institute of High-Security Animal Diseases in Bhopal determined that the ASF was the cause of the pig deaths. Throughout the last five months, the illness has claimed the lives of almost 25,000 pigs in the state. Since late March, the deaths of so many pigs had resulted in a loss of about Rs 1.21 billion. To prevent the spread of disease, state officials had to authorise the culling of nearly 9,500 pigs, according to a senior official from the state animal husbandry and veterinary science department. (With inputs from agencies)

African swine fever: After Mizoram, disease sets foot in Tripura, culling of pigs begins

In a fresh update to its travel rules, UK said on Wednesday that Covishield, the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine manufactured by Serum Institute of India, was an approved vaccine. The development has come after fierce criticism for UK's travel advisory that mandated 10-day quarantine even for fully vaccinated Indians. However, certificates issued by India remains a grey area in the eyes of the UK as Indian public health bodies have not been recognised by the UK.

The new travel advisory that will be implemented from October 4 at 4 a.m. says, "Formulations of the four listed vaccines -- AstraZeneca Covishield, AstraZeneca vaxzevria and Moderna Takeda qualify as approved vaccines." It adds further, "You must have had a complete course of an approved vaccine at least 14 days before you arrive in England".

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/neighbourhood-to-get-first-tranche-as-india-announces-resumption-of-covid-vaccine-export-414450">Neighbourhood to get first tranche as India announces resumption of Covid vaccine export &nbsp;</a>

However, the new travel advisory said that until October 4, mixed vaccines are only permitted if you are vaccinated under the UK, Europe, USA or UK overseas vaccination program.

About vaccine certificates, UK High Commission said on Tuesday that UK government was "working with India to expand recognition of vaccine certification." This indicated doubts about vaccine certification in India.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-virus-evolving-to-get-better-at-becoming-airborne-study-shows-414713">COVID-19 virus evolving to get better at becoming airborne, study shows</a>

This suggests that though Covishield has been approved by the UK, Indian travellers may still have to undergo quarantine on arrival in UK.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-rage-asked-to-put-on-mask-angry-customer-kills-petrol-station-worker-in-germany-414648">Covid rage: Asked to put on mask, angry customer kills petrol station worker in Germany</a>

A British High Commission spokesperson said, "The UK is committed to opening up international travel again as soon as is practicable and this announcement is a further step to enable people to travel more freely again, in a safe and sustainable way, while protecting public health. We are engaging with the Government of India to explore how we could expand UK recognition of vaccine certification to people vaccinated by a relevant public health body in India."

(With inputs from agencies)

In a fresh update to its travel rules, UK said on Wednesday that Covishield, the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine manufactured by Serum Institute of India, was an approved vaccine.

In a fresh update to its travel rules, UK said on Wednesday that Covishield, the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine manufactured by Serum Institute of India, was an approved vaccine. The development has come after fierce criticism for UK's travel advisory that mandated 10-day quarantine even for fully vaccinated Indians. However, certificates issued by India remains a grey area in the eyes of the UK as Indian public health bodies have not been recognised by the UK. The new travel advisory that will be implemented from October 4 at 4 a.m. says, "Formulations of the four listed vaccines -- AstraZeneca Covishield, AstraZeneca vaxzevria and Moderna Takeda qualify as approved vaccines." It adds further, "You must have had a complete course of an approved vaccine at least 14 days before you arrive in England". Also Read: Neighbourhood to get first tranche as India announces resumption of Covid vaccine export However, the new travel advisory said that until October 4, mixed vaccines are only permitted if you are vaccinated under the UK, Europe, USA or UK overseas vaccination program. About vaccine certificates, UK High Commission said on Tuesday that UK government was "working with India to expand recognition of vaccine certification." This indicated doubts about vaccine certification in India. Also Read: COVID-19 virus evolving to get better at becoming airborne, study shows This suggests that though Covishield has been approved by the UK, Indian travellers may still have to undergo quarantine on arrival in UK. Also Read: Covid rage: Asked to put on mask, angry customer kills petrol station worker in Germany A British High Commission spokesperson said, "The UK is committed to opening up international travel again as soon as is practicable and this announcement is a further step to enable people to travel more freely again, in a safe and sustainable way, while protecting public health. We are engaging with the Government of India to explore how we could expand UK recognition of vaccine certification to people vaccinated by a relevant public health body in India." (With inputs from agencies)

UK approves Covishield but has problem with Indian vaccine certificates

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi left for a three-day visit to the US on Wednesday. Duringhis visit, he will address UN General Assembly, attend the Quad summit and also hold a bilateral meet with US President Joe Biden.

Biden will host PM Modi at the White House on September 24. This will be his first in-person meeting with Modi after he became president of theh US.

As per the statement issued by Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla, PM Modi and President Biden are expected to discuss ways to stem radicalisation and combat terrorism. They are also expected to discuss ways to bolster defence, trade ties, security collaborations and clean energy partnership among others.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/exclusive-bilateral-ties-destined-to-move-ahead-says-indias-envoy-to-us-taranjit-singh-sandhu-414790">Exclusive-Bilateral ties destined to move ahead, says India's envoy to US Taranjit Singh Sandhu</a>

PM Modi and Biden will discuss the current regional security situation following the recent developments in Afghanistan. PM Modi will also hold business interactions during his US visit from September 22-25. Prime Minister Modi will attend the first in-person summit of the Quad hosted by the US President on Friday, which will be attended by Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga of Japan and Prime Minister Scott Morrison of Australia. PM Modi will address the General Debate of the High-Level Segment of 76th Session of UN General Assembly (UNGA) on September 25 in New York. The theme for this year`s general debate is building resilience through hope to recover from COVID-19, rebuild sustainability, respond to the needs of the planet, respect the rights of people and revitalise the United Nations.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/on-unga-sidelines-jaishankar-discusses-afghanistan-indo-pacific-in-bilateral-meetings-414763">On UNGA sidelines, Jaishankar discusses Afghanistan, Indo-Pacific in bilateral meetings&nbsp;</a> 
 
While addressing the UN General Assembly, the Prime Minister will dwell on the important issues, including the regional situation, cross border terrorism, global efforts to combat COVID-19 and climate change and the need to reform multilateral institutions.&nbsp;

Another element of the Prime Minister`s visit would be bilateral meetings with Japan and Australia. He will hold several bilateral meetings with US President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/president-biden-pm-modis-meeting-will-strengthen-deep-ties-says-us-ahead-of-unga-414562">President Biden, PM Modi's meeting will strengthen deep ties, says US ahead of UNGA</a>

PM Modi is accompanied by a high-level delegation consisting of National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and senior officials including Shringla. This is Prime Minister Modi`s first visit abroad beyond the neighbourhood since the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak.

(With inputs from agencies)

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi left for a three-day visit to the US on Wednesday. Duringhis visit, he will address UN General Assembly, attend the Quad summit and also hold a bilateral meet with US President Joe Biden.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi left for a three-day visit to the US on Wednesday. Duringhis visit, he will address UN General Assembly, attend the Quad summit and also hold a bilateral meet with US President Joe Biden. Biden will host PM Modi at the White House on September 24. This will be his first in-person meeting with Modi after he became president of theh US. As per the statement issued by Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla, PM Modi and President Biden are expected to discuss ways to stem radicalisation and combat terrorism. They are also expected to discuss ways to bolster defence, trade ties, security collaborations and clean energy partnership among others. Also Read: Exclusive-Bilateral ties destined to move ahead, says India's envoy to US Taranjit Singh Sandhu PM Modi and Biden will discuss the current regional security situation following the recent developments in Afghanistan. PM Modi will also hold business interactions during his US visit from September 22-25. Prime Minister Modi will attend the first in-person summit of the Quad hosted by the US President on Friday, which will be attended by Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga of Japan and Prime Minister Scott Morrison of Australia. PM Modi will address the General Debate of the High-Level Segment of 76th Session of UN General Assembly (UNGA) on September 25 in New York. The theme for this year`s general debate is building resilience through hope to recover from COVID-19, rebuild sustainability, respond to the needs of the planet, respect the rights of people and revitalise the United Nations. Also Read: On UNGA sidelines, Jaishankar discusses Afghanistan, Indo-Pacific in bilateral meetings While addressing the UN General Assembly, the Prime Minister will dwell on the important issues, including the regional situation, cross border terrorism, global efforts to combat COVID-19 and climate change and the need to reform multilateral institutions. Another element of the Prime Minister`s visit would be bilateral meetings with Japan and Australia. He will hold several bilateral meetings with US President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris. Also Read: President Biden, PM Modi's meeting will strengthen deep ties, says US ahead of UNGA PM Modi is accompanied by a high-level delegation consisting of National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and senior officials including Shringla. This is Prime Minister Modi`s first visit abroad beyond the neighbourhood since the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi leaves for three-day visit to US

Ahead of the UN General Assembly, the White House said the meeting between&nbsp;Indian Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-all-set-to-visit-us-this-week-for-quad-key-bilateral-meetings-on-the-anvil-414076">Narendra Modi</a> and US President Joe Biden&nbsp;will "strengthen&nbsp;deep ties" and "shared democratic values" between the two countries.

President Biden will be hosting Modi on September 24.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/un-general-assembly">Click here for WION's complete UNGA coverage</a>

The US president will also be conducting the first in-person Quad summit at the White House with Japanese PM Yoshihide Suga, Australian PM Scott Morrison along with the Indian prime minister.

Watch:

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-usa-direct-foreign-ministers-of-the-eu-bloc-to-discuss-aukus-deal-414559/embed" width="560"></iframe>

The leaders are set to review the situation in the Indo-Pacific region after their first virtual summit in March this year.&nbsp;

President Biden and PM Modi are expected to discuss the current situation in Afghanistan including counter-terrorism, regional issues and climate change.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pandemic-afghanistan-expected-to-dominate-unga-summit-says-indian-envoy-to-un-t-s-tirumurti-414414">Also Read:&nbsp;Pandemic, Afghanistan expected to dominate UNGA summit, says Indian envoy&nbsp;</a>

The two leaders are also set to work on free and open Indo-Pacific and steps to be taken to fight the pandemic. PM Modi will be meeting US Vice President Kamala Harris on September 23 as the US and India look to further strengthen bilateral ties.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/a-look-back-at-indo-us-relations-as-modi-biden-prep-to-meet-at-unga-414578">Also Read:&nbsp;A look back at Indo-US relations as Modi-Biden prep to meet at UNGA</a>

In a release, the White House said, "The President will participate in a bilateral meeting with His Excellency Narendra Modi, Prime Minister of the Republic of India."

PM Modi had spoken to President Biden in April earlier and with US Vice President Harris in June.

(With inputs from Agencies)

Ahead of the UN General Assembly, the White House said the meeting between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Joe Biden will "strengthen deep ties" and "shared democratic values" between the two countries.

Ahead of the UN General Assembly, the White House said the meeting between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Joe Biden will "strengthen deep ties" and "shared democratic values" between the two countries. President Biden will be hosting Modi on September 24. Click here for WION's complete UNGA coverage The US president will also be conducting the first in-person Quad summit at the White House with Japanese PM Yoshihide Suga, Australian PM Scott Morrison along with the Indian prime minister. Watch: The leaders are set to review the situation in the Indo-Pacific region after their first virtual summit in March this year. President Biden and PM Modi are expected to discuss the current situation in Afghanistan including counter-terrorism, regional issues and climate change. Also Read: Pandemic, Afghanistan expected to dominate UNGA summit, says Indian envoy The two leaders are also set to work on free and open Indo-Pacific and steps to be taken to fight the pandemic. PM Modi will be meeting US Vice President Kamala Harris on September 23 as the US and India look to further strengthen bilateral ties. Also Read: A look back at Indo-US relations as Modi-Biden prep to meet at UNGA In a release, the White House said, "The President will participate in a bilateral meeting with His Excellency Narendra Modi, Prime Minister of the Republic of India." PM Modi had spoken to President Biden in April earlier and with US Vice President Harris in June. (With inputs from Agencies)

President Biden, PM Modi's meeting will strengthen deep ties, says US ahead of UNGA

Indian officials have seized nearly 3 tonnes of heroin at western Indian port in a major drug bust. The heroin originated from Afghanistan and was sent to India from an Iranian port. The street price of the huge consignment is USD 2.7 billion.

India's Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) seized the drug at Mundra port in Indian state of Gujarat. The contraband was mixed with talc stone powder

The address of the company it was intended to reach to was of Vijaywada. But senior police officers from the city said that the drug was meant to head to Delhi

The Police Commissioner said on verification with the investigating agencies, it was learnt that Govindaraju Durga Purna Vaishali, a resident of Chennai, had taken GST registration in August 2020 on the address D No 23-14-16, Satyanarayanapuram. Machavaram Sudhakar, a resident of Chennai, is the husband of Vaishali. The building is owned by Vaishali`s mother Govindaraju Taraka.

"It is learnt that Vaishali has taken a import and export license (IEC Code) from Director General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) for export and import purpose. It is also learnt that both wife and husband (Sudhakar and Vaishali) have been residing in Chennai for the past many years," he said.

"The smuggled heroin in the guise of talcum powder that landed at Mundra Port is intended to reach Delhi, but not to Vijayawada as alleged in some sections of media. So far no activity except using the Vijayawada house address for obtaining above licenses has come to notice. However, further enquiries are being conducted," he added.

It was learnt that investigating agencies conducted raids and searched in Ahmedabad, Delhi, and Chennai.

(With inputs from agencies)

Indian officials have seized nearly 3 tonnes of heroin at western Indian port in a major drug bust. The heroin originated from Afghanistan and was sent to India from an Iranian port.

Indian officials have seized nearly 3 tonnes of heroin at western Indian port in a major drug bust. The heroin originated from Afghanistan and was sent to India from an Iranian port. The street price of the huge consignment is USD 2.7 billion. India's Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) seized the drug at Mundra port in Indian state of Gujarat. The contraband was mixed with talc stone powder The address of the company it was intended to reach to was of Vijaywada. But senior police officers from the city said that the drug was meant to head to Delhi The Police Commissioner said on verification with the investigating agencies, it was learnt that Govindaraju Durga Purna Vaishali, a resident of Chennai, had taken GST registration in August 2020 on the address D No 23-14-16, Satyanarayanapuram. Machavaram Sudhakar, a resident of Chennai, is the husband of Vaishali. The building is owned by Vaishali`s mother Govindaraju Taraka. "It is learnt that Vaishali has taken a import and export license (IEC Code) from Director General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) for export and import purpose. It is also learnt that both wife and husband (Sudhakar and Vaishali) have been residing in Chennai for the past many years," he said. "The smuggled heroin in the guise of talcum powder that landed at Mundra Port is intended to reach Delhi, but not to Vijayawada as alleged in some sections of media. So far no activity except using the Vijayawada house address for obtaining above licenses has come to notice. However, further enquiries are being conducted," he added. It was learnt that investigating agencies conducted raids and searched in Ahmedabad, Delhi, and Chennai. (With inputs from agencies)

Heroin from Afghanistan worth USD 2.7 billion seized in India

Seventeen Indo-Canadians, including NDP leader Jagmeet Singh and Defence Minister Harjit Sajjan, won Canada's parliamentary elections on Tuesday with Liberal Party leader and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau returning to power in the snap polls.

Canadians gave 49-year-old Trudeau's Liberal Party a victory in Monday's parliamentary elections, but his gamble to win a majority of seats failed and nearly mirrored the result of two years ago.

The Liberals won the most seats of any party. Trudeau's Liberals were leading or elected in 156 seats — one less than they won in 2019, and 14 short of the 170 needed for a majority in the House of Commons, according to Canadian media reports.

This is Trudeau's third federal election win, but his critics say the poll was a waste of time.

The Conservatives have held onto their main opposition status and are expected to win about 122 seats, &nbsp;reported.

"There are still votes to be counted but what we've seen tonight is millions of Canadians have chosen a progressive plan," Trudeau told supporters in Montreal in the early hours of Tuesday morning.

"You elected a government that will fight for you and deliver for you," he said.

Congratulating Trudeau, Jagmeet said he would "keep fighting to make sure that the super wealthy pay their fair share".

"We're gonna fight for you. We've seen you. We've heard your stories. We're going to fight for you," he said.

All three Indo-Canadian ministers - Harjit Sajjan, Anita Anand and Bardish Chagger - in the dissolved Cabinet emerged victorious as did 42-year-old New Democratic Party (NDP) leader Jagmeet Singh from Burnaby South.

Jagmeet won by nearly 40 percent vote share.

"I want to say that Canadians know that you can count on the New Democrats to continue fighting for you. As we’ve fought for you in the pandemic when times are difficult when people were struggling when people were worried about their future. We were there for you," Jagmeet said in his concession speech late on Monday night.

Jagmeet made history by becoming the first non-white leader of a federal party in Canada in 2017. Recently, he picked up the endorsement of a fellow left-of-centre politician, US Senator and former presidential hopeful Bernie Sanders.

Defence Minister Harjit Sajjan was re-elected from Vancouver-South, with nearly 49 percent of the vote share, drawing even more votes than his last decisive victory in the riding he grew up in and still calls home, CTV News reported.

Sajjan was re-elected despite the cloud of misconduct allegations hanging over the Canadian Forces and the government’s handling of the situation in Afghanistan, the report added.

"My community knows me," he said. "When we talk about things that happened 10, 15, 20, 30 years ago — obviously we’re going to take action. And now that more women are coming forward, having the confidence to come forward, yes we’re taking action."

The Liberals’ Anand was declared the winner in Oakville with a nearly 46 per cent vote share; a significant development for Canada’s vaccine minister. Anand was a rookie MP after winning in 2019 when she was appointed, City News Toronto reported.

She quickly became in charge of the country’s efforts to secure COVID-19 vaccines and was often on the campaign trail with Trudeau, it said.

"I’m just ecstatic," she said, thanking the volunteers who had worked "extremely hard as a team for five weeks straight," she was quoted as saying by the Oakville News.

In her role as former Minister of Public Services and Procurement, 54-year-old Anand played a very public role in the Liberal response to the health crisis.

Waterloo declared Liberal incumbent Chagger the winner, with 44.8 percent of the vote.

"This is a tremendous community to be able to represent," the 41-year-old Chagger was quoted as saying by CTV News.

"This election was really about a mandate. Where do Canadians want to go? Does the environment matter? Do social programmes matter? Do infrastructure investments matter? And clearly, they do," Chagger said.

Other Liberal Party winners include Kamal Khera (55 percent) from Brampton West, Ruby Sahota (54 percent) from Brampton North, Sonia Sidhu (50 percent) from Brampton South, Maninder Sidhu (55 percent) from Brampton East, and Sukh Dhaliwal (54 percent) from Surrey-Newton.

George Chahal of Calgary Skyview (42 percent), Arif Virani of Parkdale-High Park (42%), Randeep Sarai of Surrey Centre (44%), Anju Dhillon of Dorval-Lachine-LaSalle (52%), Chandra Arya of Nepean (44%), and first-time candidate Iqwinder Gaheer of Mississauga-Malton (53%).

Meanwhile, Tim Uppal of Edmonton Mill Woods (38%) and Jasraj Singh Hallan of Calgary Forest Lawn (44%) have retained their seats in the Conservative Party.

Canada hosts one of the largest Indian diasporas in the world, numbering 1.6 million people, which accounts for more than three per cent of its total population.

The diaspora, whose main concentration is in the Greater Toronto Area, the Greater Vancouver area, Montreal (Quebec), Calgary (Alberta), Ottawa (Ontario) and Winnipeg (Manitoba), has done commendably well in every sector in Canada, according to the information on the website of the Indian High Commission in Canada.

The election, which took place during a fourth pandemic wave in Canada, was the most expensive in the country's history, costing some 600 million Canadian dollars, the report added.

Seventeen Indo-Canadians, including NDP leader Jagmeet Singh and Defence Minister Harjit Sajjan, won Canada's parliamentary elections on Tuesday with Liberal Party leader and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau returning to power in the snap polls.

Seventeen Indo-Canadians, including NDP leader Jagmeet Singh and Defence Minister Harjit Sajjan, won Canada's parliamentary elections on Tuesday with Liberal Party leader and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau returning to power in the snap polls. Canadians gave 49-year-old Trudeau's Liberal Party a victory in Monday's parliamentary elections, but his gamble to win a majority of seats failed and nearly mirrored the result of two years ago. The Liberals won the most seats of any party. Trudeau's Liberals were leading or elected in 156 seats — one less than they won in 2019, and 14 short of the 170 needed for a majority in the House of Commons, according to Canadian media reports. This is Trudeau's third federal election win, but his critics say the poll was a waste of time. The Conservatives have held onto their main opposition status and are expected to win about 122 seats, reported. "There are still votes to be counted but what we've seen tonight is millions of Canadians have chosen a progressive plan," Trudeau told supporters in Montreal in the early hours of Tuesday morning. "You elected a government that will fight for you and deliver for you," he said. Congratulating Trudeau, Jagmeet said he would "keep fighting to make sure that the super wealthy pay their fair share". "We're gonna fight for you. We've seen you. We've heard your stories. We're going to fight for you," he said. All three Indo-Canadian ministers - Harjit Sajjan, Anita Anand and Bardish Chagger - in the dissolved Cabinet emerged victorious as did 42-year-old New Democratic Party (NDP) leader Jagmeet Singh from Burnaby South. Jagmeet won by nearly 40 percent vote share. "I want to say that Canadians know that you can count on the New Democrats to continue fighting for you. As we’ve fought for you in the pandemic when times are difficult when people were struggling when people were worried about their future. We were there for you," Jagmeet said in his concession speech late on Monday night. Jagmeet made history by becoming the first non-white leader of a federal party in Canada in 2017. Recently, he picked up the endorsement of a fellow left-of-centre politician, US Senator and former presidential hopeful Bernie Sanders. Defence Minister Harjit Sajjan was re-elected from Vancouver-South, with nearly 49 percent of the vote share, drawing even more votes than his last decisive victory in the riding he grew up in and still calls home, CTV News reported. Sajjan was re-elected despite the cloud of misconduct allegations hanging over the Canadian Forces and the government’s handling of the situation in Afghanistan, the report added. "My community knows me," he said. "When we talk about things that happened 10, 15, 20, 30 years ago — obviously we’re going to take action. And now that more women are coming forward, having the confidence to come forward, yes we’re taking action." The Liberals’ Anand was declared the winner in Oakville with a nearly 46 per cent vote share; a significant development for Canada’s vaccine minister. Anand was a rookie MP after winning in 2019 when she was appointed, City News Toronto reported. She quickly became in charge of the country’s efforts to secure COVID-19 vaccines and was often on the campaign trail with Trudeau, it said. "I’m just ecstatic," she said, thanking the volunteers who had worked "extremely hard as a team for five weeks straight," she was quoted as saying by the Oakville News. In her role as former Minister of Public Services and Procurement, 54-year-old Anand played a very public role in the Liberal response to the health crisis. Waterloo declared Liberal incumbent Chagger the winner, with 44.8 percent of the vote. "This is a tremendous community to be able to represent," the 41-year-old Chagger was quoted as saying by CTV News. "This election was really about a mandate. Where do Canadians want to go? Does the environment matter? Do social programmes matter? Do infrastructure investments matter? And clearly, they do," Chagger said. Other Liberal Party winners include Kamal Khera (55 percent) from Brampton West, Ruby Sahota (54 percent) from Brampton North, Sonia Sidhu (50 percent) from Brampton South, Maninder Sidhu (55 percent) from Brampton East, and Sukh Dhaliwal (54 percent) from Surrey-Newton. George Chahal of Calgary Skyview (42 percent), Arif Virani of Parkdale-High Park (42%), Randeep Sarai of Surrey Centre (44%), Anju Dhillon of Dorval-Lachine-LaSalle (52%), Chandra Arya of Nepean (44%), and first-time candidate Iqwinder Gaheer of Mississauga-Malton (53%). Meanwhile, Tim Uppal of Edmonton Mill Woods (38%) and Jasraj Singh Hallan of Calgary Forest Lawn (44%) have retained their seats in the Conservative Party. Canada hosts one of the largest Indian diasporas in the world, numbering 1.6 million people, which accounts for more than three per cent of its total population. The diaspora, whose main concentration is in the Greater Toronto Area, the Greater Vancouver area, Montreal (Quebec), Calgary (Alberta), Ottawa (Ontario) and Winnipeg (Manitoba), has done commendably well in every sector in Canada, according to the information on the website of the Indian High Commission in Canada. The election, which took place during a fourth pandemic wave in Canada, was the most expensive in the country's history, costing some 600 million Canadian dollars, the report added.

17 Indo-Canadians triumph in Canada's snap elections as Trudeau fails to win majority 

A look back at Indo-US relations as Modi-Biden prep to meet at UNGA

India and the US Are the world's two largest democracies. The collaboration between the two extends from intelligence to maritime ties, and even to cyber cooperation. In the last couple of years, the two countries have grown closer, to combat a common enemy - China.

In October 1949, India's first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru went on a goodwill tour of the United States. He addressed the US House of Representatives and the US Senate and met with US President Harry Truman.

Despite failing to reap any economic benefits for India, the trip managed to lay the groundwork for America's relationship with India.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/president-biden-pm-modis-meeting-will-strengthen-deep-ties-says-us-ahead-of-unga-414562">President Biden, PM Modi's meeting will strengthen deep ties, says US ahead of UNGA</a>

In December 1959, President Dwight Eisenhower became the first serving US President to visit New Delhi.

Eisenhower's visit helped India acquire adequate financial assistance, and achieve reasonable stability during the Cold War.

Since then, 7 US Presidents have visited India, and 9 Indian Prime Ministers have visited the US. But a strategic partnership between the two countries, emerged only in 2010.

In June 2010, the United States and India formally convened the first US-India strategic dialogue.

A high-ranking delegation of Indian officials visited Washington DC, the US Secretary of state Hillary Clinton called India 'an indispensable partner'.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-nations-general-assembly-2021-heres-what-to-watch-for-414439">United Nations General Assembly 2021: Here's what to watch for</a>

US President Barack Obama called the relationship 'a defining partnership in the 21st century'.

In November 2010, President Barack Obama visited India for the first time.

He addressed the Indian parliament, and backed India's bid for a permanent seat on the UN Security Council. Obama also announced 14.9 billion dollars in trade deals.

In 2014, the newly-elected Prime Minister Narendra Modi was invited by President Obama to the White House.

Prime minister Modi's first visit included a sold-out event in New York’s Madison Square Garden and meetings with US business executives.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-unga-jinping-claimed-china-is-not-expansionist-these-facts-tell-otherwise-329724">At UNGA, Jinping claimed China is not 'expansionist'. These facts tell otherwise!</a>

The two countries signed a memorandum of understanding between the export-import bank and an Indian energy agency.

In 2015, President Obama made his second visit to India as head of state for India’s Republic Day celebrations.

He heralded the relationship between the two largest democracies, saying, 'America can be India’s best partner.'

In 2017, US President Donald Trump welcomed Prime Minister Modi to the White House for their first face-to-face meeting.

The joint statement emphasized on strengthening their defence partnership, cooperating on counterterrorism efforts, and boosting economic ties.

Though Trump had raised sharp disagreements with India over trade, Climate Change, and H-1B visas, these issues were sidelined during the leaders’ summit.

In 2018, during a two-plus-two dialogue in New Delhi, India &amp; US signed the COMCASA - Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement.

This gave India access to advanced defence technology in America. The agreement had been under negotiation for nearly a decade.

In 2020, Donald Trump made his first &amp; last visit to India as US President. New Delhi agreed to purchase US military equipment worth 3 billion dollars.

In July this year, US Defence Secretary Austin visited India to boost partnership and discuss challenges in the Indo-Pacific.

Austin's visit aimed to expand cooperation between the two sides amidst China's growing assertiveness in the region.

Austin also called on Prime Minister Modi and discussed international, regional and bilateral issues of mutual interest.

The upcoming Quad summit and the UNGA come close on the heels of US Withdrawal from Afghanistan and the takeover by Taliban.

The implications of a Taliban-led Afghanistan particularly from India’s national security perspective is likely to figure high on the Quad’s agenda.

Equally important would be the discussions on developments in the Indo-Pacific, as both the US And India aim to counter Beijing's aggression.

A look back at Indo-US relations as Modi-Biden prep to meet at UNGA India and the US Are the world's two largest democracies. The collaboration between the two extends from intelligence to maritime ties, and even to cyber cooperation.

A look back at Indo-US relations as Modi-Biden prep to meet at UNGA India and the US Are the world's two largest democracies. The collaboration between the two extends from intelligence to maritime ties, and even to cyber cooperation. In the last couple of years, the two countries have grown closer, to combat a common enemy - China. In October 1949, India's first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru went on a goodwill tour of the United States. He addressed the US House of Representatives and the US Senate and met with US President Harry Truman. Despite failing to reap any economic benefits for India, the trip managed to lay the groundwork for America's relationship with India. Also Read | President Biden, PM Modi's meeting will strengthen deep ties, says US ahead of UNGA In December 1959, President Dwight Eisenhower became the first serving US President to visit New Delhi. Eisenhower's visit helped India acquire adequate financial assistance, and achieve reasonable stability during the Cold War. Since then, 7 US Presidents have visited India, and 9 Indian Prime Ministers have visited the US. But a strategic partnership between the two countries, emerged only in 2010. In June 2010, the United States and India formally convened the first US-India strategic dialogue. A high-ranking delegation of Indian officials visited Washington DC, the US Secretary of state Hillary Clinton called India 'an indispensable partner'. Also Read | United Nations General Assembly 2021: Here's what to watch for US President Barack Obama called the relationship 'a defining partnership in the 21st century'. In November 2010, President Barack Obama visited India for the first time. He addressed the Indian parliament, and backed India's bid for a permanent seat on the UN Security Council. Obama also announced 14.9 billion dollars in trade deals. In 2014, the newly-elected Prime Minister Narendra Modi was invited by President Obama to the White House. Prime minister Modi's first visit included a sold-out event in New York’s Madison Square Garden and meetings with US business executives. Also Read | At UNGA, Jinping claimed China is not 'expansionist'. These facts tell otherwise! The two countries signed a memorandum of understanding between the export-import bank and an Indian energy agency. In 2015, President Obama made his second visit to India as head of state for India’s Republic Day celebrations. He heralded the relationship between the two largest democracies, saying, 'America can be India’s best partner.' In 2017, US President Donald Trump welcomed Prime Minister Modi to the White House for their first face-to-face meeting. The joint statement emphasized on strengthening their defence partnership, cooperating on counterterrorism efforts, and boosting economic ties. Though Trump had raised sharp disagreements with India over trade, Climate Change, and H-1B visas, these issues were sidelined during the leaders’ summit. In 2018, during a two-plus-two dialogue in New Delhi, India & US signed the COMCASA - Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement. This gave India access to advanced defence technology in America. The agreement had been under negotiation for nearly a decade. In 2020, Donald Trump made his first & last visit to India as US President. New Delhi agreed to purchase US military equipment worth 3 billion dollars. In July this year, US Defence Secretary Austin visited India to boost partnership and discuss challenges in the Indo-Pacific. Austin's visit aimed to expand cooperation between the two sides amidst China's growing assertiveness in the region. Austin also called on Prime Minister Modi and discussed international, regional and bilateral issues of mutual interest. The upcoming Quad summit and the UNGA come close on the heels of US Withdrawal from Afghanistan and the takeover by Taliban. The implications of a Taliban-led Afghanistan particularly from India’s national security perspective is likely to figure high on the Quad’s agenda. Equally important would be the discussions on developments in the Indo-Pacific, as both the US And India aim to counter Beijing's aggression.

A look back at Indo-US relations as Modi-Biden prep to meet at UNGA

To teach patriotism to China's primary schoolchildren, the People's Liberation Army (PLA) is using the example of Chinese soldiers who died in the Galwan Valley conflict with Indian border troops in mid-June 2020.

Over the weekend, a border battalion from the Xinjiang military region and primary school pupils from the eastern Chinese province of Anhui held a video exchange focused on border defence.

It praises the hardships and valour of PLA troops stationed along India's border.&nbsp;

On Tuesday, an official military portal published an article titled "The heroic deeds of defending the country and border areas were introduced to school classes, and officers and soldiers stationed on the plateau were connected online to pupils thousands of miles away," which described the exchange between soldiers and students.

The article mentioned how the death of one Chinese soldier at Galwan Valley left an impression on the students.

Twenty Indian soldiers were killed while fighting Chinese troops in Galwan Valley in eastern Ladakh on June 15 last year.&nbsp;

China and India have been gradually disengaging over stretches of their disputed border in Ladakh in recent months.

Despite this, the two sides remain at odds over who is to blame for the 2020-21 impasse, which ended in a violent clash in Galwan Valley in June 2020.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

To teach patriotism to China's primary schoolchildren, the People's Liberation Army (PLA) is using the example of Chinese soldiers who died in the Galwan Valley conflict with Indian border troops in mid-June 2020.

To teach patriotism to China's primary schoolchildren, the People's Liberation Army (PLA) is using the example of Chinese soldiers who died in the Galwan Valley conflict with Indian border troops in mid-June 2020. Over the weekend, a border battalion from the Xinjiang military region and primary school pupils from the eastern Chinese province of Anhui held a video exchange focused on border defence. It praises the hardships and valour of PLA troops stationed along India's border. On Tuesday, an official military portal published an article titled "The heroic deeds of defending the country and border areas were introduced to school classes, and officers and soldiers stationed on the plateau were connected online to pupils thousands of miles away," which described the exchange between soldiers and students. The article mentioned how the death of one Chinese soldier at Galwan Valley left an impression on the students. Twenty Indian soldiers were killed while fighting Chinese troops in Galwan Valley in eastern Ladakh on June 15 last year. China and India have been gradually disengaging over stretches of their disputed border in Ladakh in recent months. Despite this, the two sides remain at odds over who is to blame for the 2020-21 impasse, which ended in a violent clash in Galwan Valley in June 2020. (With inputs from agencies)

Galwan Valley: China introduces violent clash as part of education on patriotism

India has made it clear to China that peace and tranquility in border areas are essential for the development of bilateral ties and that it can only be based on "three mutuals" — mutual respect, mutual sensitivity and mutual interests, Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla said on Monday.

He said as an immediate neighbour of Afghanistan, India is naturally concerned about the recent changes in that country and their implications for the region and that India's friendship with Afghan people will continue to guide its approach in the future.

In an address at the sixth J P Morgan "India Investor Summit", Shringla said the situation in India's neighbourhood, particularly in Afghanistan, and with China on the eastern borders reminds us that while the new realities are making themselves felt, traditional security challenges remain.

Talking about "megatrends", he listed the phenomenon of rebalancing in which global activity is moving towards Asia, the rise of China and the pressure on the international systems among others.

On New Delhi's ties with Beijing, he said Chinese attempts over the last year to "unilaterally" alter the status quo in Ladakh have "seriously disturbed" peace and tranquillity in the border areas.

"These acts are in violation of our bilateral agreements and have inevitably impacted other aspects of the bilateral relationship," he said, referring to the eastern Ladakh border standoff.

"We have made it clear to the Chinese side that peace and tranquillity in border areas are essential for the development of our relationship. Development of India-China relationship can only be based on "three mutuals"- mutual respect, mutual sensitivity and mutual interests," he added.

Shringla said an essential basis for the largely positive trajectory of India-China relations during the last 40 years has been the agreement between the two countries to ensure peace and tranquillity in the border areas.

On the situation in Afghanistan, he referred to the recent UN Security Council resolution 2693 and said it demanded that Afghan territory should not be used for sheltering, training, planning or financing terrorist acts and also specifically refers to terrorists proscribed by the global body including those from Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM).

"As an immediate neighbour, we are naturally concerned about the recent changes within Afghanistan and their implications for us and the region," Shringla said.

The foreign secretary said India's immediate focus was on the evacuation of its nationals from Afghanistan and that most of them were able to leave Kabul in August along with a number of Afghans, including minorities.

"However, this process could not be completed due to the security situation at the airport. Resumption of flights from Kabul airport is, therefore, a priority. We are closely monitoring the unfolding situation," Shringla said.

Elaborating on the UN Security Council resolution on Afghanistan, he noted that it was adopted under India's presidency of the global body and that it comprehensively addressed the main pending issues relating to that country.

The foreign secretary said India is also monitoring developments related to the humanitarian needs of Afghanistan.

In UNDP"s assessment, there is an imminent threat of poverty levels rising in Afghanistan besides a threat of an imminent drought and a food security crisis, he said.

"It is important for the humanitarian assistance providers to be given unrestricted and direct access to Afghanistan," the foreign secretary said.

He also underlined the need to ensure that the distribution of humanitarian assistance is done in a "non-discriminatory manner" to all sections of Afghan society.

"India"s approach to Afghanistan has been guided by our civilisational relationship with the Afghan people. We have extended over USD 3 billion as development assistance for the welfare of the people of Afghanistan," he said.

Referring to the recent in-person Quad summit, Shringla said the agenda of cooperation under this framework is constructive and diverse.

"The four Quad countries are engaged on issues of connectivity and infrastructure, emerging technologies, climate action, education, and most important of all, COVID-19 responses – which include vaccines collaboration, and resilient and reliable supply chains," he said.

He said India is involved in multiple initiatives, within the framework of Quad and with Quad countries individually, on supply chain resilience.&nbsp;

India has made it clear to China that peace and tranquility in border areas are essential for the development of bilateral ties and that it can only be based on "three mutuals" — mutual respect, mutual sensitivity and mutual interests, Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla said on Monday.

India has made it clear to China that peace and tranquility in border areas are essential for the development of bilateral ties and that it can only be based on "three mutuals" — mutual respect, mutual sensitivity and mutual interests, Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla said on Monday. He said as an immediate neighbour of Afghanistan, India is naturally concerned about the recent changes in that country and their implications for the region and that India's friendship with Afghan people will continue to guide its approach in the future. In an address at the sixth J P Morgan "India Investor Summit", Shringla said the situation in India's neighbourhood, particularly in Afghanistan, and with China on the eastern borders reminds us that while the new realities are making themselves felt, traditional security challenges remain. Talking about "megatrends", he listed the phenomenon of rebalancing in which global activity is moving towards Asia, the rise of China and the pressure on the international systems among others. On New Delhi's ties with Beijing, he said Chinese attempts over the last year to "unilaterally" alter the status quo in Ladakh have "seriously disturbed" peace and tranquillity in the border areas. "These acts are in violation of our bilateral agreements and have inevitably impacted other aspects of the bilateral relationship," he said, referring to the eastern Ladakh border standoff. "We have made it clear to the Chinese side that peace and tranquillity in border areas are essential for the development of our relationship. Development of India-China relationship can only be based on "three mutuals"- mutual respect, mutual sensitivity and mutual interests," he added. Shringla said an essential basis for the largely positive trajectory of India-China relations during the last 40 years has been the agreement between the two countries to ensure peace and tranquillity in the border areas. On the situation in Afghanistan, he referred to the recent UN Security Council resolution 2693 and said it demanded that Afghan territory should not be used for sheltering, training, planning or financing terrorist acts and also specifically refers to terrorists proscribed by the global body including those from Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM). "As an immediate neighbour, we are naturally concerned about the recent changes within Afghanistan and their implications for us and the region," Shringla said. The foreign secretary said India's immediate focus was on the evacuation of its nationals from Afghanistan and that most of them were able to leave Kabul in August along with a number of Afghans, including minorities. "However, this process could not be completed due to the security situation at the airport. Resumption of flights from Kabul airport is, therefore, a priority. We are closely monitoring the unfolding situation," Shringla said. Elaborating on the UN Security Council resolution on Afghanistan, he noted that it was adopted under India's presidency of the global body and that it comprehensively addressed the main pending issues relating to that country. The foreign secretary said India is also monitoring developments related to the humanitarian needs of Afghanistan. In UNDP"s assessment, there is an imminent threat of poverty levels rising in Afghanistan besides a threat of an imminent drought and a food security crisis, he said. "It is important for the humanitarian assistance providers to be given unrestricted and direct access to Afghanistan," the foreign secretary said. He also underlined the need to ensure that the distribution of humanitarian assistance is done in a "non-discriminatory manner" to all sections of Afghan society. "India"s approach to Afghanistan has been guided by our civilisational relationship with the Afghan people. We have extended over USD 3 billion as development assistance for the welfare of the people of Afghanistan," he said. Referring to the recent in-person Quad summit, Shringla said the agenda of cooperation under this framework is constructive and diverse. "The four Quad countries are engaged on issues of connectivity and infrastructure, emerging technologies, climate action, education, and most important of all, COVID-19 responses – which include vaccines collaboration, and resilient and reliable supply chains," he said. He said India is involved in multiple initiatives, within the framework of Quad and with Quad countries individually, on supply chain resilience.

Peace and tranquility in border areas are essential for development of bilateral ties, India tells China

All Indian students at Russia's Perm State University, where at least six people were killed and 24 others injured on Monday when a gunman went on a shooting spree, are safe,&nbsp;according to the Indian embassy.

A recent batch of students for the Perm State Medical University (2020-21) had departed from New Delhi on August 29. &nbsp;&nbsp;

"Shocked at the horrific attack at Perm State University in Russia; our deep condolences for loss of life and best wishes for early recovery of those injured. The embassy is in touch with local authorities and the representatives of Indian students. All Indian students at Perm State Medical University are safe," the embassy said.

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Perm State Medical University&nbsp;is one of Russia's oldest.

It is located in Perm, about 1,300 kilometres east of Moscow.&nbsp; 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

All Indian students at Russia's Perm State University, where at least six people were killed and 24 others injured on Monday when a gunman went on a shooting spree, are safe, according to the Indian embassy.

All Indian students at Russia's Perm State University, where at least six people were killed and 24 others injured on Monday when a gunman went on a shooting spree, are safe, according to the Indian embassy. A recent batch of students for the Perm State Medical University (2020-21) had departed from New Delhi on August 29. "Shocked at the horrific attack at Perm State University in Russia; our deep condolences for loss of life and best wishes for early recovery of those injured. The embassy is in touch with local authorities and the representatives of Indian students. All Indian students at Perm State Medical University are safe," the embassy said. Embassy is in touch with local authorities and representatives of Indian students. All Indian students at Perm State Medical University are safe. (2/2)@PMOIndia @narendramodi @DrSJaishankar @MEAIndia — India in Russia (@IndEmbMoscow) September 20, 2021 × Perm State Medical University is one of Russia's oldest. It is located in Perm, about 1,300 kilometres east of Moscow. (With inputs from agencies)

All Indian students safe after Perm University shooting, says embassy

Two persons were arrested&nbsp;while further search&nbsp;is taking place across India, in connection with the seizure of around 3,000 kgs of heroin, originating from Afghanistan, from a port in India's Gujarat state.

The authorities also suspect the involvement of an Afghan national, whose whereabouts are currently being traced.

According to India’s Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI), the 3,000 kgs&nbsp;drug—valued at $2.7 billion in the international market—was seized from Mundra port. The contraband was mixed with talc stone powder.

The officials acted after receiving “specific intelligence” that the drugs were being shipped from Bandar Abbas Port in Iran via two containers, weighing 40 tonnes.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/heroin-from-afghanistan-worth-usd-27-billion-seized-in-india-414584">Heroin from Afghanistan worth USD 2.7 billion seized in India</a>

“Specific intelligence was developed that a consignment imported by M/s Aashi Trading Company, Vijaywada, declared as semi-processed Talc stones originating shipped from Bandar Abbas Port to Mundra Port is suspected to contain narcotics drugs. Intelligence indicated that these drugs have originated from Afghanistan,” the officers said in a statement.

The DRI official informed&nbsp;that 1999.579 kgs were recovered from the first container and 988.64 kgs&nbsp;from the second container, totalling to 2988.219 kgs of heroin.

The officers found that the drug was heroin after conducting a laboratory test.

“The examination was conducted in presence of experts from Forensics Science Lab (FSL), Gandhinagar. During the examination, suspected narcotics drugs were recovered from both the containers. The FSL conducted tests and confirmed the presence of heroin,” it added.

The officers are conducting searches in Ahmedabad, Delhi, Chennai, Gandhidham and Mandvi in Gujarat.

<h2>Afghanistan—World’s narco-state</h2>

The latest haul by the Indian authorities brings back the focus on Afghanistan, from where the seized heroin originated.

Afghanistan is the world’s biggest illicit opiate supplier. The poppy crops—the raw ingredient of opium and its derivative heroin— had played a key role in helping the Taliban fund its insurgency against the Western forces, cementing the country’s longtime position as the world’s leading producer of opium.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/lack-of-money-may-push-afghan-authorities-to-turn-to-drug-trafficking-putin-413767">Lack of money may push Afghan authorities to turn to drug trafficking: Putin</a>

According to the data shared by United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), the area covered under poppy cultivation expanded from 8,000 hectares in 2001 to 224,000 hectares in 2020.

The gum harvested from poppies is turned into heroin and then shipped to Central Asia, Europe and the United States— where the demand remains in high.

According to the UNODC, the opium economy in Afghanistan is estimated at $1.2 billion to $2.1 billion annually, accounting for 6 to 11 per cent of the Afghan Gross Domestic Production (GDP).

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistans-women-judges-fear-reprisal-stay-in-hiding-414427">Afghanistan's women judges fear reprisal, stay in hiding &nbsp;</a>&nbsp;

The UN agency estimates Afghanistan's drug kingpins to account for 80 per cent of global opium and heroin supplies.

<h2>Taliban's tryst with opium</h2>

Intoxicants including narcotic drugs are, notably, ‘haraam’ in Islam. Yet, the Taliban which claim to fight in the name of religion has refrained from banning opium.

According to an American official quoted in the US Special Inspector General for Afghanistan (SIGAR) report released in May 2021, the militia group derives up to 60 per cent of its annual revenue from the illegal narcotics trade,

An investigation by the BBC found that the Taliban's annual income surged to $400 million from 2011 onwards and is estimated to have peaked at $1.5 billion by 2018-end.

As per UN officials, the Taliban are expected to have earned more than $400 million between 2018 and 2019 from the drug trade, Reuters reported.

However, ever since it took over Afghanistan, the Taliban had been repeatedly stressing that their new government won’t allow the production of narcotics drug.

Speaking at a first press conference on September 12, Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid promised that the new government would not turn the world's leading producer of opium into a fully-fledged narco-state.

“We are assuring our countrymen and women and the international community, we will not have any narcotics produced," Mujahid told reporters in Kabul.

“From now on, nobody’s going to get involved (in the heroin trade), nobody can be involved in drug smuggling.”

(With inputs from agencies)

Two persons were arrested while further search is taking place across India, in connection with the seizure of around 3,000 kgs of heroin, originating from Afghanistan, from a port in India's Gujarat state.

Two persons were arrested while further search is taking place across India, in connection with the seizure of around 3,000 kgs of heroin, originating from Afghanistan, from a port in India's Gujarat state. The authorities also suspect the involvement of an Afghan national, whose whereabouts are currently being traced. According to India’s Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI), the 3,000 kgs drug—valued at $2.7 billion in the international market—was seized from Mundra port. The contraband was mixed with talc stone powder. The officials acted after receiving “specific intelligence” that the drugs were being shipped from Bandar Abbas Port in Iran via two containers, weighing 40 tonnes. Also read | Heroin from Afghanistan worth USD 2.7 billion seized in India “Specific intelligence was developed that a consignment imported by M/s Aashi Trading Company, Vijaywada, declared as semi-processed Talc stones originating shipped from Bandar Abbas Port to Mundra Port is suspected to contain narcotics drugs. Intelligence indicated that these drugs have originated from Afghanistan,” the officers said in a statement. The DRI official informed that 1999.579 kgs were recovered from the first container and 988.64 kgs from the second container, totalling to 2988.219 kgs of heroin. The officers found that the drug was heroin after conducting a laboratory test. “The examination was conducted in presence of experts from Forensics Science Lab (FSL), Gandhinagar. During the examination, suspected narcotics drugs were recovered from both the containers. The FSL conducted tests and confirmed the presence of heroin,” it added. The officers are conducting searches in Ahmedabad, Delhi, Chennai, Gandhidham and Mandvi in Gujarat. Afghanistan—World’s narco-state The latest haul by the Indian authorities brings back the focus on Afghanistan, from where the seized heroin originated. Afghanistan is the world’s biggest illicit opiate supplier. The poppy crops—the raw ingredient of opium and its derivative heroin— had played a key role in helping the Taliban fund its insurgency against the Western forces, cementing the country’s longtime position as the world’s leading producer of opium. Also read | Lack of money may push Afghan authorities to turn to drug trafficking: Putin According to the data shared by United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), the area covered under poppy cultivation expanded from 8,000 hectares in 2001 to 224,000 hectares in 2020. The gum harvested from poppies is turned into heroin and then shipped to Central Asia, Europe and the United States— where the demand remains in high. According to the UNODC, the opium economy in Afghanistan is estimated at $1.2 billion to $2.1 billion annually, accounting for 6 to 11 per cent of the Afghan Gross Domestic Production (GDP). Also read | Afghanistan's women judges fear reprisal, stay in hiding The UN agency estimates Afghanistan's drug kingpins to account for 80 per cent of global opium and heroin supplies. Taliban's tryst with opium Intoxicants including narcotic drugs are, notably, ‘haraam’ in Islam. Yet, the Taliban which claim to fight in the name of religion has refrained from banning opium. According to an American official quoted in the US Special Inspector General for Afghanistan (SIGAR) report released in May 2021, the militia group derives up to 60 per cent of its annual revenue from the illegal narcotics trade, An investigation by the BBC found that the Taliban's annual income surged to $400 million from 2011 onwards and is estimated to have peaked at $1.5 billion by 2018-end. As per UN officials, the Taliban are expected to have earned more than $400 million between 2018 and 2019 from the drug trade, Reuters reported. However, ever since it took over Afghanistan, the Taliban had been repeatedly stressing that their new government won’t allow the production of narcotics drug. Speaking at a first press conference on September 12, Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid promised that the new government would not turn the world's leading producer of opium into a fully-fledged narco-state. “We are assuring our countrymen and women and the international community, we will not have any narcotics produced," Mujahid told reporters in Kabul. “From now on, nobody’s going to get involved (in the heroin trade), nobody can be involved in drug smuggling.” (With inputs from agencies)

Massive drug haul: Indian authorities reveal how heroin worth $2.7 bn was busted on way from Afghanistan

As France deals with the fallout from Australia's cancellation of a $40 billion French submarine deal, French President Emmanuel Macron and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi discussed co-operating over the Indo-Pacific region on Tuesday. &nbsp;

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A statement from Macron’s office said, the two leaders held a phone conversation on Tuesday. In the call, they also discussed various issues, such as the crisis in Afghanistan. &nbsp;

PM Modi also tweeted, "Spoke with my friend President&nbsp;@EmmanuelMacron&nbsp;on the situation in Afghanistan. We also discussed closer collaboration between India and France in the Indo-Pacific. We place great value on our Strategic Partnership with France, including in the UNSC."

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Spoke with my friend President <a href="https://twitter.com/EmmanuelMacron?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EmmanuelMacron</a> on the situation in Afghanistan. We also discussed closer collaboration between India and France in the Indo-Pacific. We place great value on our Strategic Partnership with France, including in the UNSC.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1440293420212260877?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 21, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to ensure an open and inclusive Indo-Pacific area. They also looked to promote regional stability and the rule of law, while ruling out any form of hegemony. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/before-trade-talks-eu-seeks-apology-from-australia-over-frances-treatment-in-aukus-row-414641" hreflang="en">Before trade talks, EU seeks apology from Australia over France’s treatment in Aukus row</a>

Macron reiterated France's commitment to contribute in strengthening India's strategic autonomy, including its industrial and technological base, within the framework of a close relationship based on trust and mutual respect between two strategic partners. He said bilateral cooperation in all areas, in particular on the economic front, will be strengthened. &nbsp;

The leaders said the authorities in power in Afghanistan need to sever links with international terror organisations, allow humanitarian organisations to operate throughout the country and respect the fundamental rights of Afghan women and men. Also let the evacuation operations continue unhindered. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/first-modi-biden-meet-to-focus-on-afghanistan-terrorism-bolstering-indo-us-ties-foreign-secretary-414633" hreflang="en">First Modi-Biden meet to focus on Afghanistan, terrorism, bolstering Indo-US ties: Foreign Secretary</a>

Both the leaders assured to maintain regular exchanges to coordinate upstream of the next deadlines, in particular the G20 and COP 26 on the climate, and will continue their joint actions against the pandemic. Macron welcomed India’s decision to resume deliveries of vaccines to COVAX. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

As France deals with the fallout from Australia's cancellation of a $40 billion French submarine deal, French President Emmanuel Macron and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi discussed co-operating over the Indo-Pacific region on Tuesday.

As France deals with the fallout from Australia's cancellation of a $40 billion French submarine deal, French President Emmanuel Macron and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi discussed co-operating over the Indo-Pacific region on Tuesday. Watch: × A statement from Macron’s office said, the two leaders held a phone conversation on Tuesday. In the call, they also discussed various issues, such as the crisis in Afghanistan. PM Modi also tweeted, "Spoke with my friend President @EmmanuelMacron on the situation in Afghanistan. We also discussed closer collaboration between India and France in the Indo-Pacific. We place great value on our Strategic Partnership with France, including in the UNSC." Spoke with my friend President @EmmanuelMacron on the situation in Afghanistan. We also discussed closer collaboration between India and France in the Indo-Pacific. We place great value on our Strategic Partnership with France, including in the UNSC. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 21, 2021 × The two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to ensure an open and inclusive Indo-Pacific area. They also looked to promote regional stability and the rule of law, while ruling out any form of hegemony. Also Read: Before trade talks, EU seeks apology from Australia over France’s treatment in Aukus row Macron reiterated France's commitment to contribute in strengthening India's strategic autonomy, including its industrial and technological base, within the framework of a close relationship based on trust and mutual respect between two strategic partners. He said bilateral cooperation in all areas, in particular on the economic front, will be strengthened. The leaders said the authorities in power in Afghanistan need to sever links with international terror organisations, allow humanitarian organisations to operate throughout the country and respect the fundamental rights of Afghan women and men. Also let the evacuation operations continue unhindered. Also Read: First Modi-Biden meet to focus on Afghanistan, terrorism, bolstering Indo-US ties: Foreign Secretary Both the leaders assured to maintain regular exchanges to coordinate upstream of the next deadlines, in particular the G20 and COP 26 on the climate, and will continue their joint actions against the pandemic. Macron welcomed India’s decision to resume deliveries of vaccines to COVAX. (With inputs from agencies)

In call, French President Emmanuel Macron, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi discuss Indo-Pacific, Afghanistan

In a petition seeking directions to classify pregnant women and lactating mothers as “high-risk” category for Covid, Indian Supreme Court issued a notice to the Union government on Monday.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

The petition also looks to give them priority in vaccination against the illness, reported news agency PTI.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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The bench comprising Justice DY Chandrachud and Justice BV Nagarathna has directed the Centre to file its response within two weeks over the plea filed by the Delhi Commission for Protection of Child Rights (DCPCR).&nbsp;&nbsp;

In the hearing, advocate Vrinda Grover, who appeared on behalf of the child rights body, argued that though the Central government issued guidelines for inoculating pregnant women against Covid, it is now being claimed that vaccinating them could lead to “adverse effects.”

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/do-your-own-research-four-words-hurting-us-response-to-covid-says-report-414459" hreflang="en">'Do your own research': Four words hurting US response to Covid, says report</a> &nbsp;&nbsp;

In the top court, Grover submitted, “We need to declare women facing such conditions as high-risk categories, and since people are dealing with a virus that they don’t know much about, there is a need to conduct continuous research to observe the effects of vaccination on them.”

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-unhappy-over-changes-in-uk-travel-rules-report-414394" hreflang="en">India unhappy over changes in UK travel rules: Report</a> &nbsp;&nbsp;

Grover added that a platform should also be set up to register women, who are expecting, for the purpose of properly monitoring the effects of a Covid shot on them.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The DCPCR’s appeal was filed in May this year. The bench sought assistance of Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, the Centre’s top law officer, to apprise it on the policy to administer vaccine shots to pregnant women, and what additional steps can be taken.&nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In a petition seeking directions to classify pregnant women and lactating mothers as “high-risk” category for Covid, Indian Supreme Court issued a notice to the Union government on Monday.

In a petition seeking directions to classify pregnant women and lactating mothers as “high-risk” category for Covid, Indian Supreme Court issued a notice to the Union government on Monday. The petition also looks to give them priority in vaccination against the illness, reported news agency PTI. Watch: × The bench comprising Justice DY Chandrachud and Justice BV Nagarathna has directed the Centre to file its response within two weeks over the plea filed by the Delhi Commission for Protection of Child Rights (DCPCR). In the hearing, advocate Vrinda Grover, who appeared on behalf of the child rights body, argued that though the Central government issued guidelines for inoculating pregnant women against Covid, it is now being claimed that vaccinating them could lead to “adverse effects.” Also Read | 'Do your own research': Four words hurting US response to Covid, says report In the top court, Grover submitted, “We need to declare women facing such conditions as high-risk categories, and since people are dealing with a virus that they don’t know much about, there is a need to conduct continuous research to observe the effects of vaccination on them.” Also Read | India unhappy over changes in UK travel rules: Report Grover added that a platform should also be set up to register women, who are expecting, for the purpose of properly monitoring the effects of a Covid shot on them. The DCPCR’s appeal was filed in May this year. The bench sought assistance of Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, the Centre’s top law officer, to apprise it on the policy to administer vaccine shots to pregnant women, and what additional steps can be taken. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian SC asks for govt take on plea seeking priority jab for pregnant women

India might soon expand its market value by $400 billion, with Indian start-ups generating $10 billion through IPOs so far in 2021 and 150 private companies lining up to list on the country's stock exchange, Goldman Sachs has predicted.

According to the investment bank, India's stock market has already raised more money this year than it has in the previous three years.

According to analysts, investor interest will remain strong, boosting the country's market capitalisation to $5 trillion by 2024, up from $3.5 trillion now.

This would effectively make India's stock market the world's fifth largest, knocking the United Kingdom out of the top five.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/indias-wpi-inflation-rose-in-august-over-costlier-manufactured-goods-412956">Also read | India's WPI inflation rose in August over costlier manufactured goods</a>

Several prominent technology start-ups in India have recently announced aspirations to go public.

The Indian insurance business Life Insurance Corp (LIC) is planning an initial public offering (IPO) next year with a valuation of more than $250 billion, making it the country's largest IPO to date.

MapmyIndia, a prominent Indian tech company, is also planning an IPO in the coming months.

The mapping firm, which feeds data to Apple Maps and Amazon's Alexa, is looking for a $825 million IPO price.

Food delivery company Zomato, payments behemoth Paytm, ride-hailing startup Ola, and e-commerce behemoth Flipkart are among the prominent names already on the list.&nbsp;

Analysts at Goldman Sachs predict that in future years, so-called "new economy" industries such as e-commerce, the internet, online retail, and the media will join India's stock market, while commodity and software services firms will be less visible.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

India might soon expand its market value by $400 billion, with Indian start-ups generating $10 billion through IPOs so far in 2021 and 150 private companies lining up to list on the country's stock exchange, Goldman Sachs has predicted.

India might soon expand its market value by $400 billion, with Indian start-ups generating $10 billion through IPOs so far in 2021 and 150 private companies lining up to list on the country's stock exchange, Goldman Sachs has predicted. According to the investment bank, India's stock market has already raised more money this year than it has in the previous three years. According to analysts, investor interest will remain strong, boosting the country's market capitalisation to $5 trillion by 2024, up from $3.5 trillion now. This would effectively make India's stock market the world's fifth largest, knocking the United Kingdom out of the top five. Also read | India's WPI inflation rose in August over costlier manufactured goods Several prominent technology start-ups in India have recently announced aspirations to go public. The Indian insurance business Life Insurance Corp (LIC) is planning an initial public offering (IPO) next year with a valuation of more than $250 billion, making it the country's largest IPO to date. MapmyIndia, a prominent Indian tech company, is also planning an IPO in the coming months. The mapping firm, which feeds data to Apple Maps and Amazon's Alexa, is looking for a $825 million IPO price. Food delivery company Zomato, payments behemoth Paytm, ride-hailing startup Ola, and e-commerce behemoth Flipkart are among the prominent names already on the list. Analysts at Goldman Sachs predict that in future years, so-called "new economy" industries such as e-commerce, the internet, online retail, and the media will join India's stock market, while commodity and software services firms will be less visible. (With inputs from agencies)

Goldman Sachs says India could surpass the UK as the world’s 5th largest stock market by 2024

On September 22 (Wednesday), Prime Minister Narendra Modi will fly to the United States of America (USA) for a one-on-one meeting with President Joe Biden, as well as to attend the first-ever in-person Quad Leaders Summit and address the United Nations General Assembly in New York, Indian Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla said on Tuesday. 
 
“PM Modi and US President Biden will review India-US relations and are anticipated to explore measures to expand trade and investment connections, strengthen defence and security collaborations, and boost renewable energy partnership, among other things,” Foreign Secretary HV Shringla said at a press conference.&nbsp; 
 
According to the Indian government, President Joe Biden's first bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi will deepen US-India strategic ties and allow the leaders to explore strategies to combat radicalization and terrorism.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/aukus-wont-impact-bilateral-cooperation-quad-us-to-india-414606">Also read | AUKUS won't impact bilateral cooperation, Quad: US to India</a>

A high-level team will accompany the PM, including External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval.

The first in-person encounter with US President Joe Biden, the QUAD leaders meeting, and the United Nations General Assembly session will be the highlights of the programme, according to Shringla. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/aukus-could-trigger-a-nuclear-arms-race-north-korea-414521">Also Read:&nbsp;AUKUS could trigger a 'nuclear arms race', says&nbsp;North Korea</a>

In their Friday meeting in Washington, PM Modi and US President Biden will also discuss the powerful and varied India-US relationship, according to Shringla.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/aukus-row-wont-impact-military-cooperation-nato-military-chief-414065">Also Read:&nbsp;AUKUS row won’t impact military cooperation: NATO military chief</a>

"PM Modi will participate in the COVID-19 Global Summit hosted by US President Biden tomorrow.PM Modi, US Prez's bilateral meeting will also feature current regional security situation following developments in Afghanistan. We would discuss the need to stem radicalisation, extremism, cross-border terrorism and dismantling of global terror networks," Shringla added.

A meeting with US Vice-President Kamala Harris is also part of the bilateral engagement. This will be PM Modi's first official meeting with the Vice President.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

On September 22 (Wednesday), Prime Minister Narendra Modi will fly to the United States of America (USA) for a one-on-one meeting with President Joe Biden, as well as to attend the first-ever in-person Quad Leaders Summit and address the United Nations General Assembly in New York, Indian Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla said on Tuesday.

On September 22 (Wednesday), Prime Minister Narendra Modi will fly to the United States of America (USA) for a one-on-one meeting with President Joe Biden, as well as to attend the first-ever in-person Quad Leaders Summit and address the United Nations General Assembly in New York, Indian Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla said on Tuesday. “PM Modi and US President Biden will review India-US relations and are anticipated to explore measures to expand trade and investment connections, strengthen defence and security collaborations, and boost renewable energy partnership, among other things,” Foreign Secretary HV Shringla said at a press conference. According to the Indian government, President Joe Biden's first bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi will deepen US-India strategic ties and allow the leaders to explore strategies to combat radicalization and terrorism. Also read | AUKUS won't impact bilateral cooperation, Quad: US to India A high-level team will accompany the PM, including External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval. The first in-person encounter with US President Joe Biden, the QUAD leaders meeting, and the United Nations General Assembly session will be the highlights of the programme, according to Shringla. Also Read: AUKUS could trigger a 'nuclear arms race', says North Korea In their Friday meeting in Washington, PM Modi and US President Biden will also discuss the powerful and varied India-US relationship, according to Shringla. Also Read: AUKUS row won’t impact military cooperation: NATO military chief "PM Modi will participate in the COVID-19 Global Summit hosted by US President Biden tomorrow.PM Modi, US Prez's bilateral meeting will also feature current regional security situation following developments in Afghanistan. We would discuss the need to stem radicalisation, extremism, cross-border terrorism and dismantling of global terror networks," Shringla added. A meeting with US Vice-President Kamala Harris is also part of the bilateral engagement. This will be PM Modi's first official meeting with the Vice President. (With inputs from agencies)

First Modi-Biden meet to focus on Afghanistan, terrorism, bolstering Indo-US ties: Foreign Secretary

Amid row over US, Australia, UK (AUKUS) trilateral pact, the Biden administration has assured India that the new defence partnership will not detract from either its bilateral cooperation New Delhi or multilateral ties like the Quad.

Reports said US secretary of defence Lloyd Austin gave the assurances while briefing India's defence minister Rajnath Singh in a telephonic conversation.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/aukus-could-trigger-a-nuclear-arms-race-north-korea-414521">Also Read:&nbsp;AUKUS could trigger a 'nuclear arms race', says&nbsp;North Korea</a>

Austin said that the US will continue to cooperate closely with India as before while defence minister Rajnath Singh reportedly said in the conversation that India was studying the AUKUS agreement.

The US defence secretary's call comes just ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Washington for the first in-person Quad summit with President Joe Biden to be held on September 24.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/aukus-row-wont-impact-military-cooperation-nato-military-chief-414065">Also Read:&nbsp;AUKUS row won’t impact military cooperation: NATO military chief</a>

Under the AUKUS deal unveiled by the US, UK and Australia, the US will help Canberra build at least eight nuclear-powered attack submarines. The deal was criticised by the French government which was&nbsp;earlier in talks with the Australian government to build submarines.

The move is being seen as a strategic step to counter China's expanding footprint in the Indo-Pacific.

Watch:&nbsp;

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India currently has only one nuclear-powered submarine.

During the telephonic conversation, India's defence minister also conveyed India's concerns over the large amount of US weapons left behind in Afghanistan&nbsp;including Humvees,&nbsp;helicopters, drones and rifles which are now reportedly with the Taliban.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/aukus-angry-france-cancels-gala-event-in-washington-413759">Also Read:&nbsp;Angry France cancels gala event in Washington</a>

Austin and Rajnath Singh also discussed issues relating to combating terrorism in the region and agreed to work closely in view of the evolving situation in Afghanistan.

(With inputs from Agencies)

Amid row over US, Australia, UK (AUKUS) trilateral pact, the Biden administration has assured India that the new defence partnership will not detract from either its bilateral cooperation New Delhi or multilateral ties like the Quad.

Amid row over US, Australia, UK (AUKUS) trilateral pact, the Biden administration has assured India that the new defence partnership will not detract from either its bilateral cooperation New Delhi or multilateral ties like the Quad. Reports said US secretary of defence Lloyd Austin gave the assurances while briefing India's defence minister Rajnath Singh in a telephonic conversation. Also Read: AUKUS could trigger a 'nuclear arms race', says North Korea Austin said that the US will continue to cooperate closely with India as before while defence minister Rajnath Singh reportedly said in the conversation that India was studying the AUKUS agreement. The US defence secretary's call comes just ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Washington for the first in-person Quad summit with President Joe Biden to be held on September 24. Also Read: AUKUS row won’t impact military cooperation: NATO military chief Under the AUKUS deal unveiled by the US, UK and Australia, the US will help Canberra build at least eight nuclear-powered attack submarines. The deal was criticised by the French government which was earlier in talks with the Australian government to build submarines. The move is being seen as a strategic step to counter China's expanding footprint in the Indo-Pacific. Watch: India currently has only one nuclear-powered submarine. During the telephonic conversation, India's defence minister also conveyed India's concerns over the large amount of US weapons left behind in Afghanistan including Humvees, helicopters, drones and rifles which are now reportedly with the Taliban. Also Read: Angry France cancels gala event in Washington Austin and Rajnath Singh also discussed issues relating to combating terrorism in the region and agreed to work closely in view of the evolving situation in Afghanistan. (With inputs from Agencies)

AUKUS won't impact bilateral cooperation, Quad: US to India

India's former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee's&nbsp;iconic speech in Hindi on October 4, 1977,&nbsp;as the country's foreign minister at the 32nd UN General Assembly still echoes nearly fifty years later.

India's thrust in the 1970s was towards non-alignment with the cold war at its peak. The former prime minister described himself as a "newcomer" at the United Nations but added that "India is not, having been associated actively with the organisation from its very inception."

"The vision of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakum is an old one. We in India have all along believed in the concept of the world as one family," Vajpayee said as the world listened.

Atal Bihari Vajpayee was at the time the foreign minister under the Janta Dal government post-Emergency. "Earlier this year our people successfully frustrated attempts by a self-seeking regime to deprive them of their fundamental freedoms," he said, adding, "Basic human rights have been restored. The pall of fear that hung menacingly over our people has been lifted."

"Constitutional measures are being devised to ensure that democracy and fundamental freedoms can never be smothered again," Vajyaee assured the world.

In a forceful speech, Vajpayee declared: "Our own history and political experience have taught us that the real sanction, indeed the ultimate power rests in the will and response of the people, not in governments."

The former prime minister reminded the diplomats and leaders present that United Nations Charter was made "to build a new world order in true freedom".

Vajpayee clearly showed why he was called the man of the masses when he said, "My thoughts are not in terms of the might and majesty of nations. Much more important to me are the dignity and demands of the common man."

"Our successes and failures should be judged ultimately by one yardstick alone - whether we are working towards social justice and dignity," India's great orator added.

Vajpayee felt the United Nations should become the "effective voice of all humanity and a dynamic forum for collective action and co-operation based on interdependence between nations."

He also spoke against apartheid in Africa and called for it to be "eradicated, root and branch" while describing it as a "blot" on humanity and said that India stands with "South West Africa People's Organization, in southern Africa we face colonialism and racialism at its worst, in west Asia, there remains an even more explosive threat to international peace."

He also emphasised on "normalisation" of relations with Pakistan as both countries were still emerging from the 1971 war which had led to the creation of Bangladesh.

India's former foreign minister also spoke about nuclear disarmament at a time when the arms race was at its peak between the former Soviet Union and the United States with neither ready to back down in the high stakes tussle as the spectre of a nuclear conflict loomed over the world.

"We are told that nuclear weapons are necessary as a deterrent against war and that it is only the assurance of their use that constitutes the core of deterrence. We do not not accept that thesis."

Vajpayee termed nuclear weapons as "dangerous" while emphasising that India will continue to commit towards peaceful use of nuclear energy.

On India's contribution towards education and bringing people together, he said:"Our professional and academic institutions have been providing training and instruction to thousands of students from other developing countries in diverse fields of social and economic development."

"Jai lagat (Hail One World)", he said as he ended his speech.

(With inputs from Agencies)

India's former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee's iconic speech in Hindi on October 4, 1977, as the country's foreign minister at the 32nd UN General Assembly still echoes nearly fifty years later.

India's former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee's iconic speech in Hindi on October 4, 1977, as the country's foreign minister at the 32nd UN General Assembly still echoes nearly fifty years later. India's thrust in the 1970s was towards non-alignment with the cold war at its peak. The former prime minister described himself as a "newcomer" at the United Nations but added that "India is not, having been associated actively with the organisation from its very inception." "The vision of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakum is an old one. We in India have all along believed in the concept of the world as one family," Vajpayee said as the world listened. Atal Bihari Vajpayee was at the time the foreign minister under the Janta Dal government post-Emergency. "Earlier this year our people successfully frustrated attempts by a self-seeking regime to deprive them of their fundamental freedoms," he said, adding, "Basic human rights have been restored. The pall of fear that hung menacingly over our people has been lifted." "Constitutional measures are being devised to ensure that democracy and fundamental freedoms can never be smothered again," Vajyaee assured the world. In a forceful speech, Vajpayee declared: "Our own history and political experience have taught us that the real sanction, indeed the ultimate power rests in the will and response of the people, not in governments." The former prime minister reminded the diplomats and leaders present that United Nations Charter was made "to build a new world order in true freedom". Vajpayee clearly showed why he was called the man of the masses when he said, "My thoughts are not in terms of the might and majesty of nations. Much more important to me are the dignity and demands of the common man." "Our successes and failures should be judged ultimately by one yardstick alone - whether we are working towards social justice and dignity," India's great orator added. Vajpayee felt the United Nations should become the "effective voice of all humanity and a dynamic forum for collective action and co-operation based on interdependence between nations." He also spoke against apartheid in Africa and called for it to be "eradicated, root and branch" while describing it as a "blot" on humanity and said that India stands with "South West Africa People's Organization, in southern Africa we face colonialism and racialism at its worst, in west Asia, there remains an even more explosive threat to international peace." He also emphasised on "normalisation" of relations with Pakistan as both countries were still emerging from the 1971 war which had led to the creation of Bangladesh. India's former foreign minister also spoke about nuclear disarmament at a time when the arms race was at its peak between the former Soviet Union and the United States with neither ready to back down in the high stakes tussle as the spectre of a nuclear conflict loomed over the world. "We are told that nuclear weapons are necessary as a deterrent against war and that it is only the assurance of their use that constitutes the core of deterrence. We do not not accept that thesis." Vajpayee termed nuclear weapons as "dangerous" while emphasising that India will continue to commit towards peaceful use of nuclear energy. On India's contribution towards education and bringing people together, he said:"Our professional and academic institutions have been providing training and instruction to thousands of students from other developing countries in diverse fields of social and economic development." "Jai lagat (Hail One World)", he said as he ended his speech. (With inputs from Agencies)

India's vision: When Atal Bihari Vajpayee made iconic speech in Hindi at UNGA

 Abu Dhabi [UAE], September 20 (ANI): Varun Chakaravarthy and Andre Russell starred with the bowl as Kolkata Knight Riders bowled out Royal Challengers Banglore to 92 in 19 overs in an Indian Premier League (IPL) encounter here at the Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium on Monday.Varun Chakaravarthy (3-13) and Andre Russell (3-9) bamboozled the opposition with a perfect bowling display. For RCB, Devdutt Padikkal and KS Bharat played innings of 24 and 16 respectively.Opting to bat first, RCB had a shaky start when their captain Virat Kohli (5) was trapped in front of wickets for LBW by Prasidh Krishna in the second over of the innings. The team in blue lost another wicket on the last ball of the Powerplay as Lockie Ferguson sent back Padikkal (22 off 20) after he edged to the keeper.Srikar Bharat and Glen Maxwell tried to stabilise the ship of RCB for the few overs but Andre Russell soon struck and dismantled the opposition. The big West Indian first sent back Bharat to the pavilion in 9th over. And then after the timeout in the very same over he bowled AB de Villiers for a first-ball duck to turn the momentum of the match in KKR`s favour completely. Varun Chakaravarthy then struck again in the 12th over as he knocked Maxwell and then Hasaranga on two consecutive deliveries. Sachin Baby soon followed his teammates to the pavilion. Kyle Jamieson was run out after Chakaravarthy got a feather of a finger on the ball. Harshal Patel (12) and Mohammed Siraj were last to fall as RCB innings was completed with one over still to go. Brief Scores: Royal Challengers Banglore (Devdutt Padikkal 24, KS Bharat 16; Varun Chakaravarthy 3-13 Andre Russell 3-9) vs Kolkata Knight Riders (ANI) 

Abu Dhabi [UAE], September 20 (ANI): Varun Chakaravarthy and Andre Russell starred with the bowl as Kolkata Knight Riders bowled out Royal Challengers Banglore to 92 in 19 overs in an Indian Premier League (IPL) encounter here at the Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium on Monday.

Abu Dhabi [UAE], September 20 (ANI): Varun Chakaravarthy and Andre Russell starred with the bowl as Kolkata Knight Riders bowled out Royal Challengers Banglore to 92 in 19 overs in an Indian Premier League (IPL) encounter here at the Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium on Monday.Varun Chakaravarthy (3-13) and Andre Russell (3-9) bamboozled the opposition with a perfect bowling display. For RCB, Devdutt Padikkal and KS Bharat played innings of 24 and 16 respectively.Opting to bat first, RCB had a shaky start when their captain Virat Kohli (5) was trapped in front of wickets for LBW by Prasidh Krishna in the second over of the innings. The team in blue lost another wicket on the last ball of the Powerplay as Lockie Ferguson sent back Padikkal (22 off 20) after he edged to the keeper.Srikar Bharat and Glen Maxwell tried to stabilise the ship of RCB for the few overs but Andre Russell soon struck and dismantled the opposition. The big West Indian first sent back Bharat to the pavilion in 9th over. And then after the timeout in the very same over he bowled AB de Villiers for a first-ball duck to turn the momentum of the match in KKR`s favour completely. Varun Chakaravarthy then struck again in the 12th over as he knocked Maxwell and then Hasaranga on two consecutive deliveries. Sachin Baby soon followed his teammates to the pavilion. Kyle Jamieson was run out after Chakaravarthy got a feather of a finger on the ball. Harshal Patel (12) and Mohammed Siraj were last to fall as RCB innings was completed with one over still to go. Brief Scores: Royal Challengers Banglore (Devdutt Padikkal 24, KS Bharat 16; Varun Chakaravarthy 3-13 Andre Russell 3-9) vs Kolkata Knight Riders (ANI)

IPL 2021: Russell, Chakaravarthy bamboozles RCB for 92

India's neighborhood will get the first consignments of Covid vaccines as New Delhi on Monday announced the resumption of vaccine export initiative, Vaccine Maitri. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Health minister Mansukh Mandviya said, "In the 4th quarter, after completing our needs, we will produce more. Excess production will help in taking Vaccine Maitri forward. In the 4th quarter under the Vaccine Maitri, we will help the world and fulfill our responsibilities with the COVAX." &nbsp;

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Breaking: India announces resumption of vaccine maitri (Covid vaccine export). Indian health minister <a href="https://twitter.com/mansukhmandviya?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mansukhmandviya</a> announces resumption from 4th Quarter of this year. <a href="https://t.co/svyEtXduBm">pic.twitter.com/svyEtXduBm</a>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1439913873830825990?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 20, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The minister explained that in September, Indian companies will produce 260 million doses of the Covid vaccines. India has also steadily increased vaccination as the authorities have administered over 808.5 million vaccine doses so far. &nbsp;

India began ‘Vaccine Maitri’ initiative in January, with the first tranche of Indian vaccines being sent to Maldives, Bhutan, followed by other countries in the neighbourhood. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/do-your-own-research-four-words-hurting-us-response-to-covid-says-report-414459" hreflang="en">'Do your own research': Four words hurting US response to Covid, says report</a>

India's vaccine outreach to the world started within four days of it starting its mega domestic vaccination programme on January 16. The initiative was suspended as India grappled with second wave of deadly Covid pandemic in April.&nbsp;

So far under the initiative, India has sent vaccines to 95 countries of the world. The total amount of vaccines supplied so far is 66.3698 million doses-- of which, 10.715 million doses have been via grant, 35.792 million doses commercially and 19.8628 million doses to COVAX.&nbsp;

India's neighborhood will get the first consignments of Covid vaccines as New Delhi on Monday announced the resumption of vaccine export initiative, Vaccine Maitri.

India's neighborhood will get the first consignments of Covid vaccines as New Delhi on Monday announced the resumption of vaccine export initiative, Vaccine Maitri. Health minister Mansukh Mandviya said, "In the 4th quarter, after completing our needs, we will produce more. Excess production will help in taking Vaccine Maitri forward. In the 4th quarter under the Vaccine Maitri, we will help the world and fulfill our responsibilities with the COVAX." Breaking: India announces resumption of vaccine maitri (Covid vaccine export). Indian health minister @mansukhmandviya announces resumption from 4th Quarter of this year. pic.twitter.com/svyEtXduBm — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) September 20, 2021 × The minister explained that in September, Indian companies will produce 260 million doses of the Covid vaccines. India has also steadily increased vaccination as the authorities have administered over 808.5 million vaccine doses so far. India began ‘Vaccine Maitri’ initiative in January, with the first tranche of Indian vaccines being sent to Maldives, Bhutan, followed by other countries in the neighbourhood. Also Read | 'Do your own research': Four words hurting US response to Covid, says report India's vaccine outreach to the world started within four days of it starting its mega domestic vaccination programme on January 16. The initiative was suspended as India grappled with second wave of deadly Covid pandemic in April. So far under the initiative, India has sent vaccines to 95 countries of the world. The total amount of vaccines supplied so far is 66.3698 million doses-- of which, 10.715 million doses have been via grant, 35.792 million doses commercially and 19.8628 million doses to COVAX.

Neighbourhood to get first tranche as India announces resumption of Covid vaccine export  

   	 New Delhi, Sep 20 (PTI) List of international matches (T20Is, ODIs and Tests) against New Zealand, West Indies, Sri Lanka and South Africa respectively during India&apos;s upcoming home season:
  	 
	 Versus New Zealand 
	 Nov 17: 1st T20I (Jaipur)
	 Nov 19: 2nd T20I (Ranchi)
	 Nov 21: 3rd T20I (Kolkata)
	 Nov 25-29: 1st Test (Kanpur)
	 Dec 3-7: 2nd Test (Mumbai)
	 
	 Versus West Indies
	 Feb 6: 1st ODI (Ahmedabad)
	 Feb 9: 2nd ODI (Jaipur)
	 Feb 12: 3rd ODI (Kolkata)
	 Feb 15: 1st T20I (Cuttack)
	 Feb 18: 2nd T20I (Vizag)
	 Feb 21: 3rd T20I (Trivandrum)
	 
	 Versus Sri Lanka
	 Feb 25-Mar 1: 1st Test (Bengaluru)
	 Mar 5-9: 2nd Test (Mohali)
	 Mar 13: 1st T20I (Mohali)
	 Mar 15: 2nd T20I (Dharamsala)
	 March 18: 3rd T20I (Lucknow)
	 
	 Versus South Africa
	 Jun 9: 1st T20I    (Chennai)
	 Jun 12: 2nd T20I (Bengaluru)
	 Jun 14: 3rd T20I  (Nagpur)
	 Jun 17: 4th T20I  (Rajkot)
	 Jun 19: 5th T20I  (Delhi).  

New Delhi, Sep 20 (PTI) List of international matches (T20Is, ODIs and Tests) against New Zealand, West Indies, Sri Lanka and South Africa respectively during India's upcoming home season: Versus New Zealand Nov 17: 1st T20I (Jaipur) Nov 19: 2nd T20I (Ranchi) Nov 21: 3rd T20I (Kolkata) Nov 25-29: 1st Test (Kanpur) Dec 3-7: 2nd Test (Mumbai) Versus West Indies Feb 6: 1st ODI (Ahmedabad) Feb 9: 2nd ODI (Jaipur) Feb 12: 3rd ODI (Kolkata) Feb 15: 1st T20I (Cuttack) Feb 18: 2nd T20I (Vizag) Feb 21: 3rd T20I (Trivandrum) Versus Sri Lanka Feb 25-Mar 1: 1st Test (Bengaluru) Mar 5-9: 2nd Test (Mohali) Mar 13: 1st T20I (Mohali) Mar 15: 2nd T20I (Dharamsala) March 18: 3rd T20I (Lucknow) Versus South Africa Jun 9: 1st T20I (Chennai) Jun 12: 2nd T20I (Bengaluru) Jun 14: 3rd T20I (Nagpur) Jun 17: 4th T20I (Rajkot) Jun 19: 5th T20I (Delhi).

SPO-CRI-IND-ITINERARY

India will use its voice at the high-level United Nations General Assembly to forcefully take up global issues such as terrorism, climate change, equitable and affordable access to vaccines, Indo-Pacific and UN reforms, the country's envoy to the world organisation has said.

The COVID-19 pandemic and developments in Afghanistan are expected to dominate the 76th UNGA session, India's Permanent Representative to the UN ambassador T S Tirumurti said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-vision-when-atal-bihari-vajpayee-made-iconic-speech-in-hindi-at-unga-414355">Also Read:&nbsp;When Atal Bihari Vajpayee made iconic speech in Hindi at UNGA</a>

Apart from the COVID-19 pandemic and its humanitarian impact, other issues likely to dominate the high-level segment of the session include the global economic slowdown, terrorism and related issues, climate change, ongoing conflicts in the Middle East and Africa, recent developments in Afghanistan and UN Security Council reforms, he said.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-prime-minister-narendra-modi-to-participate-in-unga-414197/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

This year's UNGA session commenced from September 14 under the presidency of Abdulla Shahid. The high-level week - the General Debate - will run from September 21, with US President Joe Biden addressing world leaders on Tuesday.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the General Debate on September 25.

The 76th UNGA is an important occasion for India for many reasons. There is an expectation that India, as the leading voice of the developing world as well as the current member of the UN Security Council, will use its voice to take up global issues forcefully.

"They include climate change, Sustainable Development Goals, equitable and affordable access to vaccines, poverty eradication and economic recovery, women's empowerment and participation in governance structures, terrorism, peacekeeping/peacebuilding, Indo-Pacific and UN reforms," Tirumurti said, adding,"We will certainly do so, as we have indeed done so before as well."

India's envoy added that the country has the ability to bring the discussions in the General Assembly to a more cooperative and constructive framework "so that we can, together with partners, oppose any divisive agenda which may be pushed or stop existing agenda being weakened".

"This is a role India can play so that we continue to keep the focus on the major issues confronting the world and not let the discourse be hijacked to suit narrow interests," he added.

India will use its voice at the high-level United Nations General Assembly to forcefully take up global issues such as terrorism, climate change, equitable and affordable access to vaccines, Indo-Pacific and UN reforms, the country's envoy to the world organisation has said.

India will use its voice at the high-level United Nations General Assembly to forcefully take up global issues such as terrorism, climate change, equitable and affordable access to vaccines, Indo-Pacific and UN reforms, the country's envoy to the world organisation has said. The COVID-19 pandemic and developments in Afghanistan are expected to dominate the 76th UNGA session, India's Permanent Representative to the UN ambassador T S Tirumurti said. Also Read: When Atal Bihari Vajpayee made iconic speech in Hindi at UNGA Apart from the COVID-19 pandemic and its humanitarian impact, other issues likely to dominate the high-level segment of the session include the global economic slowdown, terrorism and related issues, climate change, ongoing conflicts in the Middle East and Africa, recent developments in Afghanistan and UN Security Council reforms, he said. Watch: This year's UNGA session commenced from September 14 under the presidency of Abdulla Shahid. The high-level week - the General Debate - will run from September 21, with US President Joe Biden addressing world leaders on Tuesday. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the General Debate on September 25. The 76th UNGA is an important occasion for India for many reasons. There is an expectation that India, as the leading voice of the developing world as well as the current member of the UN Security Council, will use its voice to take up global issues forcefully. "They include climate change, Sustainable Development Goals, equitable and affordable access to vaccines, poverty eradication and economic recovery, women's empowerment and participation in governance structures, terrorism, peacekeeping/peacebuilding, Indo-Pacific and UN reforms," Tirumurti said, adding,"We will certainly do so, as we have indeed done so before as well." India's envoy added that the country has the ability to bring the discussions in the General Assembly to a more cooperative and constructive framework "so that we can, together with partners, oppose any divisive agenda which may be pushed or stop existing agenda being weakened". "This is a role India can play so that we continue to keep the focus on the major issues confronting the world and not let the discourse be hijacked to suit narrow interests," he added.

Pandemic, Afghanistan expected to dominate UNGA summit, says Indian envoy to UN  T S Tirumurti

Change in UK travel restriction rules has upset Indian side, media reports said on Monday. The displeasure comes from the fact that Indian side had been engaging with the UK on diplomatic and ministerial level for acceptance of Indian vaccine certificates for travel to th UK.

UK changed travel rules on Friday and did away with the 'red, amber and green list'.&nbsp;

Under the changed rules, only those Indians who have received two shots of Oxford-AstraZeneca, Pfizer or Moderna or a single shot of Janssen vaccine “under an approved vaccination program in the UK, Europe, US or UK vaccine programme overseas” will be considered fully vaccinated.

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UK government confirm tonight that if a person has been vaccinated in Africa, or South America, or countries including UAE, India, Turkey, Jordan, Thailand, Russia… 
 
…you are considered “unvaccinated” and must follow “unvaccinated” rules ⛔️ = 10 day home quarantine &amp; tests
— Alex Macheras (@AlexInAir) <a href="https://twitter.com/AlexInAir/status/1438991435697639427?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

This effectively means that Indians who have received Covishield, or Indian version of Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine will be considered unvaccinated. Such individuals will have to spend 10 days in quarantine after going to UK.

Exclusion of Covishield puts a lot of Indians at a disadvantage as it was one of the two main vaccines used for domestic immunisation program.

Indian side is upset as high ranking officials and even India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar was involved in diplomatic effort to make Indians' travel to UK problem-free. The step taken by UK in spite of these hi-level efforts is thus not gone down well with India.

Change in UK travel restriction rules has upset Indian side, media reports said on Monday. The displeasure comes from the fact that Indian side had been engaging with the UK on diplomatic and ministerial level for acceptance of Indian vaccine certificates for travel to th UK.

Change in UK travel restriction rules has upset Indian side, media reports said on Monday. The displeasure comes from the fact that Indian side had been engaging with the UK on diplomatic and ministerial level for acceptance of Indian vaccine certificates for travel to th UK. UK changed travel rules on Friday and did away with the 'red, amber and green list'. Under the changed rules, only those Indians who have received two shots of Oxford-AstraZeneca, Pfizer or Moderna or a single shot of Janssen vaccine “under an approved vaccination program in the UK, Europe, US or UK vaccine programme overseas” will be considered fully vaccinated. UK government confirm tonight that if a person has been vaccinated in Africa, or South America, or countries including UAE, India, Turkey, Jordan, Thailand, Russia… …you are considered “unvaccinated” and must follow “unvaccinated” rules ⛔️ = 10 day home quarantine & tests — Alex Macheras (@AlexInAir) September 17, 2021 × This effectively means that Indians who have received Covishield, or Indian version of Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine will be considered unvaccinated. Such individuals will have to spend 10 days in quarantine after going to UK. Exclusion of Covishield puts a lot of Indians at a disadvantage as it was one of the two main vaccines used for domestic immunisation program. Indian side is upset as high ranking officials and even India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar was involved in diplomatic effort to make Indians' travel to UK problem-free. The step taken by UK in spite of these hi-level efforts is thus not gone down well with India.

India unhappy over changes in UK travel rules: Report

France on Saturday said French foreign minister Jean-Yves Le Drian and his Indian counterpart S Jaishankar agreed to work on a common programme of "concrete actions" to jointly defend a truly multilateral international order.

After a phone conversation between Le Drian and Jaishankar, the French foreign ministry said the two ministers also decided to deepen their strategic partnership based on a relationship of "political trust" between the two "great sovereign nations" of the Indo-Pacific.

"Discussed recent developments in the Indo-Pacific and Afghanistan with my friend FM @JY_LeDria. Looking forward to our New York meeting," Jaishankar tweeted.

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Discussed recent developments in the Indo-Pacific and Afghanistan with my friend FM <a href="https://twitter.com/JY_LeDrian?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JY_LeDrian</a> .Looking forward to our New York meeting.
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1439184722823761925?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 18, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The conversation between the two foreign ministers came a day after France recalled its ambassadors to the United States and Australia in protest against a trilateral security alliance among the US and the UK and Australia.

The alliance resulted in France effectively losing a multi-billion dollar deal to build 12 conventional submarines for Australia. France is also upset over its exclusion from the alliance.

India is yet to react to the formation of the trilateral security partnership.

"The two ministers decided to deepen their strategic partnership, based on a relationship of political trust between two great sovereign nations of the Indo-Pacific," the French foreign ministry said in a statement.

It said they also discussed the situation in Afghanistan, which is "deteriorating".

"The two ministers agreed to meet again in New York next week, on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly, to work on a common program of concrete actions to jointly defend a truly multilateral international order," the ministry said.

The AUKUS (Australia, the UK and the US) partnership was unveiled by US President Joe Biden, Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison and British PM Boris Johnson on Thursday.

Australia's High Commissioner to India Barry O'Farrell on Friday said China's massive military modernisation programme, challenging strategic environment in the Indo-Pacific and intensification of great power competition in the region prompted Canberra to become part of the ambitious AUKUS partnership.

In a statement, Le Drian on Fridays said he was recalling French ambassadors to the US and Australia for consultations following a request by President Emmanuel Macron.

"This exceptional decision is justified by the exceptional gravity of the announcements made on 15th September by Australia and the United States," the French foreign ministers said.

"The cancellation of the attack class submarine program binding Australia and France since 2016, and the announcement of a new partnership with the United States meant to launch studies on a possible future cooperation on nuclear-powered submarines, constitute unacceptable behaviour between allies and partners," he said.&nbsp;

France on Saturday said French foreign minister Jean-Yves Le Drian and his Indian counterpart S Jaishankar agreed to work on a common programme of "concrete actions" to jointly defend a truly multilateral international order.

France on Saturday said French foreign minister Jean-Yves Le Drian and his Indian counterpart S Jaishankar agreed to work on a common programme of "concrete actions" to jointly defend a truly multilateral international order. After a phone conversation between Le Drian and Jaishankar, the French foreign ministry said the two ministers also decided to deepen their strategic partnership based on a relationship of "political trust" between the two "great sovereign nations" of the Indo-Pacific. "Discussed recent developments in the Indo-Pacific and Afghanistan with my friend FM @JY_LeDria. Looking forward to our New York meeting," Jaishankar tweeted. Discussed recent developments in the Indo-Pacific and Afghanistan with my friend FM @JY_LeDrian .Looking forward to our New York meeting. — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) September 18, 2021 × The conversation between the two foreign ministers came a day after France recalled its ambassadors to the United States and Australia in protest against a trilateral security alliance among the US and the UK and Australia. The alliance resulted in France effectively losing a multi-billion dollar deal to build 12 conventional submarines for Australia. France is also upset over its exclusion from the alliance. India is yet to react to the formation of the trilateral security partnership. "The two ministers decided to deepen their strategic partnership, based on a relationship of political trust between two great sovereign nations of the Indo-Pacific," the French foreign ministry said in a statement. It said they also discussed the situation in Afghanistan, which is "deteriorating". "The two ministers agreed to meet again in New York next week, on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly, to work on a common program of concrete actions to jointly defend a truly multilateral international order," the ministry said. The AUKUS (Australia, the UK and the US) partnership was unveiled by US President Joe Biden, Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison and British PM Boris Johnson on Thursday. Australia's High Commissioner to India Barry O'Farrell on Friday said China's massive military modernisation programme, challenging strategic environment in the Indo-Pacific and intensification of great power competition in the region prompted Canberra to become part of the ambitious AUKUS partnership. In a statement, Le Drian on Fridays said he was recalling French ambassadors to the US and Australia for consultations following a request by President Emmanuel Macron. "This exceptional decision is justified by the exceptional gravity of the announcements made on 15th September by Australia and the United States," the French foreign ministers said. "The cancellation of the attack class submarine program binding Australia and France since 2016, and the announcement of a new partnership with the United States meant to launch studies on a possible future cooperation on nuclear-powered submarines, constitute unacceptable behaviour between allies and partners," he said.

Jaishankar, foreign minister Jean-Yves Le Drian seek to deepen India-France strategic partnership

Amid diminishing COVID cases, India is considering opening its doors to foreign tourists for the first time in over a year. Almost 5 lakh foreigntourists will be provided visas free of cost to revive the tourism sector that was badly hit due to the COVID pandemic. India had closed its borders in March 2020 when the nationwide lockdown was announced.

India considers opening its borders to foreign tourists

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