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After years of Hiatus, Kashmir Golf Courses are back to hosting international tournaments. With the most picturesque backdrop and best terrain, an international tournament has started in Srinagar's Royal Springs Golf Course.

More than 126 professional golfers from India and abroad are participating in the tournament.&nbsp;

The government of Jammu and Kashmir is promoting the valley as the golfing destination since Kashmir's golf courses are considered to be the best in India.&nbsp;

''It's an international golf tournament which is being hosted by the Professional Golf Tour of India. It's a prestigious golf tournament. It's a very proud moment for us to host 126 professional golfers, one among them is Udaymane who represented the country at Olympics,"&nbsp;said Javaid Bakshi, Secretary of the&nbsp;golf course.&nbsp;"He was leading the pack yesterday.

&nbsp;

An inspection team arrives before the players to check the golf course, Bakshi informed. "They have a course director who does all the planning. We are lucky and proud that Mr Sampat who is the tournament director has rated this golf course as one of the best in the world. It's a big feather in the cap of Union Territory. These golfers will go as ambassadors and promote Kashmir as a golfing destination,'' Bakshi added.

The Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir has six golf courses in total. Out of these, three are in Srinagar, one in Pahalgam,&nbsp;one in Gulmarg and another one in Jammu. The Royal Spring Golf Course has 18 holes with three lakes, a club house and around 8.5km pathway for cart. The golf course is spread over 100 acres of land.&nbsp;

''Royal Springs golf course is scenic but it has got challenges for the golfers. Currently, 126 golfers are playing here. The course is planned so meticulously that it challenges the golfers,"&nbsp;said Sampath Chari, Tournament Director.&nbsp;"There are very good pathways on which you can score. You have got uphill and downhill, and the greens are very tricky. Wind speeds are different and the mountain at the back and the front make it more difficult.

Adoring the beauty and talent of Kashmir, he added, "It's fantastic to promote Kashmir as the golf destination. This has the potential of holding big tournaments here. We need to nurture young talent. We need to train the young so they pick up this sport as a professional. If it opens up a bit more, sky's the limit.'' &nbsp;

The golfers participating in the tournament are all praise for the beauty and landscape of the Royal Spring Golf Course. They also say that it has more potential and should be opened to kids so that they can take it up as their professional sport.&nbsp;

''It doesn't feel like any other golf courses in India due to its scenic beauty, just the terrain is very different.&nbsp;It is my first time here and it is great to be here. This golf course has much more potential, it can go on the globe and become an international destination for golfers. We want more people to play the sport. The more the kids play the sport, the more people will get to know about it,'' said Aman Raj, a golfer.&nbsp;

By holding such events, the government of Jammu and Kashmir is not only promoting tourism but is also making Kashmir the next golfing destination.&nbsp;

After years of Hiatus, Kashmir Golf Courses are back to hosting international tournaments. With the most picturesque backdrop and best terrain, an international tournament has started in Srinagar's Royal Springs Golf Course.

After years of Hiatus, Kashmir Golf Courses are back to hosting international tournaments. With the most picturesque backdrop and best terrain, an international tournament has started in Srinagar's Royal Springs Golf Course. More than 126 professional golfers from India and abroad are participating in the tournament. The government of Jammu and Kashmir is promoting the valley as the golfing destination since Kashmir's golf courses are considered to be the best in India. ''It's an international golf tournament which is being hosted by the Professional Golf Tour of India. It's a prestigious golf tournament. It's a very proud moment for us to host 126 professional golfers, one among them is Udaymane who represented the country at Olympics," said Javaid Bakshi, Secretary of the golf course. "He was leading the pack yesterday. An inspection team arrives before the players to check the golf course, Bakshi informed. "They have a course director who does all the planning. We are lucky and proud that Mr Sampat who is the tournament director has rated this golf course as one of the best in the world. It's a big feather in the cap of Union Territory. These golfers will go as ambassadors and promote Kashmir as a golfing destination,'' Bakshi added. The Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir has six golf courses in total. Out of these, three are in Srinagar, one in Pahalgam, one in Gulmarg and another one in Jammu. The Royal Spring Golf Course has 18 holes with three lakes, a club house and around 8.5km pathway for cart. The golf course is spread over 100 acres of land. ''Royal Springs golf course is scenic but it has got challenges for the golfers. Currently, 126 golfers are playing here. The course is planned so meticulously that it challenges the golfers," said Sampath Chari, Tournament Director. "There are very good pathways on which you can score. You have got uphill and downhill, and the greens are very tricky. Wind speeds are different and the mountain at the back and the front make it more difficult. Adoring the beauty and talent of Kashmir, he added, "It's fantastic to promote Kashmir as the golf destination. This has the potential of holding big tournaments here. We need to nurture young talent. We need to train the young so they pick up this sport as a professional. If it opens up a bit more, sky's the limit.'' The golfers participating in the tournament are all praise for the beauty and landscape of the Royal Spring Golf Course. They also say that it has more potential and should be opened to kids so that they can take it up as their professional sport. ''It doesn't feel like any other golf courses in India due to its scenic beauty, just the terrain is very different. It is my first time here and it is great to be here. This golf course has much more potential, it can go on the globe and become an international destination for golfers. We want more people to play the sport. The more the kids play the sport, the more people will get to know about it,'' said Aman Raj, a golfer. By holding such events, the government of Jammu and Kashmir is not only promoting tourism but is also making Kashmir the next golfing destination.

Kashmir holds International Golf Tournament after 7 years

According to the Indian Foreign Ministry, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will participate in the first-ever in-person summit of Quad leaders in the US on September 24.

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi while addressing the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on Saturday pushed for the reforms in the global body

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Maldives foreign minister Abdulla Shahid during his United Nations General Assembly speech on Tuesday thanked India for the $250 million budgetary support to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic.

"I thank all our partners who have generously extended financial, material and technical support during this crisis, even when they themselves are going through challenging times," the Maldives foreign minister said.

&nbsp;"One such example is India. The recent budget support of 250 million US dollars, was the single largest financial assistance from a donor during this pandemic," he added.

Earlier this month, India had formally extended the $250 budgetary support or loan at a ceremony in Maldivian capital Malé in the presence of Maldives foreign minister Abdulla Shahid, finance minister Ibrahim Ameer, Indian High Commissioner Sunjay Sudhir and CEO of SBI in Male, Bharat Mishra.&nbsp;

Maldives is the only country to which India has provided such assistance to deal with the COVID-19 economic impact. Amid the COVID-19 crisis, India has reached out to the Maldives in a number of ways including by sending a rapid response team, a consignment of 5.5 tons of essential medicines, followed by more consignments and 580 tons of food aid including foodgrains, onions, etc in May.&nbsp;

Maldives FM highlighted how COVID-19 impacted his country as "a vibrant and thriving nation - our lives, came to a standstill, almost overnight. With no tourists, revenue declined, and debt increased. The economy is set to contract – for the first time in a decade."

The Indian ocean country has constituted a National Taskforce on Response and Recovery and it will focus on post-COVID-19 action plan.

Maldives FM also called for "meaningful action" for the protection of our ocean. He said,"millions of people rely on the ocean and its bounty, for their survival. For Maldivians, as custodians of over 90,000 sqkm of the Indian Ocean, it is part of our identity, our way of life, our economy."

The country has committed to the protection of 20 per cent of its waters and is also committed to working with the Global Ocean Alliance towards achieving the global target of protecting 30% of the ocean in the coming years. Maldives President Ibrahim Solih last year at United Nations General Assembly announced to phase out single-use plastics by 2023.

Maldives foreign minister Abdulla Shahid during his United Nations General Assembly speech on Tuesday thanked India for the $250 million budgetary support to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic.

Maldives foreign minister Abdulla Shahid during his United Nations General Assembly speech on Tuesday thanked India for the $250 million budgetary support to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic. "I thank all our partners who have generously extended financial, material and technical support during this crisis, even when they themselves are going through challenging times," the Maldives foreign minister said. "One such example is India. The recent budget support of 250 million US dollars, was the single largest financial assistance from a donor during this pandemic," he added. Earlier this month, India had formally extended the $250 budgetary support or loan at a ceremony in Maldivian capital Malé in the presence of Maldives foreign minister Abdulla Shahid, finance minister Ibrahim Ameer, Indian High Commissioner Sunjay Sudhir and CEO of SBI in Male, Bharat Mishra. Maldives is the only country to which India has provided such assistance to deal with the COVID-19 economic impact. Amid the COVID-19 crisis, India has reached out to the Maldives in a number of ways including by sending a rapid response team, a consignment of 5.5 tons of essential medicines, followed by more consignments and 580 tons of food aid including foodgrains, onions, etc in May. Maldives FM highlighted how COVID-19 impacted his country as "a vibrant and thriving nation - our lives, came to a standstill, almost overnight. With no tourists, revenue declined, and debt increased. The economy is set to contract – for the first time in a decade." The Indian ocean country has constituted a National Taskforce on Response and Recovery and it will focus on post-COVID-19 action plan. Maldives FM also called for "meaningful action" for the protection of our ocean. He said,"millions of people rely on the ocean and its bounty, for their survival. For Maldivians, as custodians of over 90,000 sqkm of the Indian Ocean, it is part of our identity, our way of life, our economy." The country has committed to the protection of 20 per cent of its waters and is also committed to working with the Global Ocean Alliance towards achieving the global target of protecting 30% of the ocean in the coming years. Maldives President Ibrahim Solih last year at United Nations General Assembly announced to phase out single-use plastics by 2023.

During UNGA speech, Maldives FM Abdulla Shahid thanks India for $250 million support amid COVID-19

India on Friday abstained from a United Nations General Assembly resolution on Arms Embargo on Myanmar, calling the resolution a&nbsp;'haste course of action'. India was among&nbsp;the 36 countries, including Russia and China,&nbsp;who abstained. In south Asia,&nbsp;Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Pakistan abstained.&nbsp;

India's envoy to UN, TS&nbsp;Tirumurti&nbsp;speaking at UNGA said,&nbsp;"The fact that there is lack of support from all&nbsp;neighbouring&nbsp;countries as well as several&nbsp;countries in the region itself should, hopefully, serve as an eye opener to those,&nbsp;who choose to pursue a hasty course of action".&nbsp;

The resolution was floated by Liechtenstein and was backed by US, France, UK, Germany with a majority of countries being&nbsp;European.&nbsp;It got the support of 119 countries with Belarus being the only country that voted against the resolution.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Indian envoy to UN pointed out, that "we find that our views have not been reflected in the draft being considered for the adoption" and reiterated the "consultative and constructive approach involving the&nbsp;neighbouring&nbsp;countries and the region remains important as the international community strives for the peaceful&nbsp;resolution of the issue."&nbsp;

Since the coup in Myanmar on February&nbsp;1, the country has seen an increased level of violence internally even&nbsp;as the issue has been discussed several times at the United Nations Security Council and the General Assembly.&nbsp;&nbsp;

During the&nbsp;address by Envoy&nbsp;Tirumurti, he highlighted India's support to ASEAN initiative&nbsp;on Myanmar and called on&nbsp;'upholding&nbsp;the rule of law and release of detained&nbsp;leaders'.&nbsp;The ASEAN proposal calls cessation of violence, special envoy of ASEAN chair for mediation of dialogue process, humanitarian assistance.&nbsp;

Expressing&nbsp;‘deep concern', he&nbsp;'strongly condemned the use of violence&nbsp;and urged maximum restraint'. Explaining further he said,&nbsp;"We are firm that the path to democracy in Myanmar should continue to move forward through the process of democratic transition, which India has steadfastly supported and&nbsp;there can be no turning back on this."&nbsp;

Country's charismatic leader Aung San Suu Kyi remains under house arrest and is facing a court case, seen as a farce created by the military leadership.&nbsp;

Importantly, India also mentioned its views on repatriation of Rohingya&nbsp;refugees with the envoy saying, "India has the highest stakes in resolving this issue at the earliest" and commended Bangladesh&nbsp;'for hosting a million displaced persons in its territory’.&nbsp;&nbsp;

India called for "safe, speedy and sustainable repatriation of the displaced persons" in Bangladesh to Rakhine state of Myanmar.&nbsp;&nbsp;

India on Friday abstained from a United Nations General Assembly resolution on Arms Embargo on Myanmar, calling the resolution a 'haste course of action'. India was among the 36 countries, including Russia and China, who abstained.

India on Friday abstained from a United Nations General Assembly resolution on Arms Embargo on Myanmar, calling the resolution a 'haste course of action'. India was among the 36 countries, including Russia and China, who abstained. In south Asia, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Pakistan abstained. India's envoy to UN, TS Tirumurti speaking at UNGA said, "The fact that there is lack of support from all neighbouring countries as well as several countries in the region itself should, hopefully, serve as an eye opener to those, who choose to pursue a hasty course of action". The resolution was floated by Liechtenstein and was backed by US, France, UK, Germany with a majority of countries being European. It got the support of 119 countries with Belarus being the only country that voted against the resolution. The Indian envoy to UN pointed out, that "we find that our views have not been reflected in the draft being considered for the adoption" and reiterated the "consultative and constructive approach involving the neighbouring countries and the region remains important as the international community strives for the peaceful resolution of the issue." Since the coup in Myanmar on February 1, the country has seen an increased level of violence internally even as the issue has been discussed several times at the United Nations Security Council and the General Assembly. During the address by Envoy Tirumurti, he highlighted India's support to ASEAN initiative on Myanmar and called on 'upholding the rule of law and release of detained leaders'. The ASEAN proposal calls cessation of violence, special envoy of ASEAN chair for mediation of dialogue process, humanitarian assistance. Expressing ‘deep concern', he 'strongly condemned the use of violence and urged maximum restraint'. Explaining further he said, "We are firm that the path to democracy in Myanmar should continue to move forward through the process of democratic transition, which India has steadfastly supported and there can be no turning back on this." Country's charismatic leader Aung San Suu Kyi remains under house arrest and is facing a court case, seen as a farce created by the military leadership. Importantly, India also mentioned its views on repatriation of Rohingya refugees with the envoy saying, "India has the highest stakes in resolving this issue at the earliest" and commended Bangladesh 'for hosting a million displaced persons in its territory’. India called for "safe, speedy and sustainable repatriation of the displaced persons" in Bangladesh to Rakhine state of Myanmar.

India calls UN arms ban resolution on Myanmar as 'haste course of action' 

India has highlighted how it "prioritizes institution-building" as part of its global peace-building efforts, and these efforts are focused on "extensive development partnerships with developing countries" in Asia and Africa. &nbsp;

Indian diplomat Pratik Mathur, speaking at the United Nations General Assembly, said, "As a democracy, we are conscious of the need to prioritize institution building, in particular, governance structures to strengthen institutional capacity and the rule of law, taking into account the views of the host government" and "consequently, these need to be the building blocks on which peace-building should rest." He made the comments at the annual UN General assembly debate on peacebuilding and sustaining peace.

As part of the development support globally, in 2017, India established the India-UN Development Partnership Fund. In 4 years, the Fund has developed a portfolio of 64 development projects in partnership with 48 developing countries.&nbsp;

These countries include 17 countries in Africa. Mathur, who is a counsellor at the Indian mission to the United Nations, said, "India, through its extensive development partnership with developing countries, particularly in Africa and Asia, has always played a constructive and significant role in the context of peacebuilding. "

The India-UN Development Partnership Fund has been used for projects related to climate resilience, environmental sustainability, gender equality, renewable energy, improving maternal health etc.

The Indian diplomat explained, "India has and continues to assist countries bilaterally in post-conflict situations by providing substantial grants and soft loans". He added, "In the sphere of training, for example, for countries emerging out of conflict situations in Africa, our focused training in the areas of electoral administration, good governance, etc. has been deeply valued by these countries."

When it comes to Africa, India has executed 189 developmental projects in 37 African countries and currently, around 77 projects are under execution. The Indian government has also committed US $1.7 billion in soft loans for solar projects on the continent and has offered 50,000 scholarships to African students.

He also spoke about India's support for Afghanistan. He said, "In our neighbourhood, for instance, in Afghanistan, India is also contributing to peacebuilding efforts. Our development partnership, including more than 550 Community Development Projects covering all 34 provinces of the country, is aimed at strengthening Afghanistan. "

India has been a major donor to Afghanistan in the last 20 years. It has built several major infrastructure projects in the country, like the India-Afghanistan friendship dam in Herat, the Afghan Parliament.

Pratik is his closing comments pointed out that, "India has always been known for its unflinching commitment to peace-keeping" and "we are convinced that nation-building activities will be strengthened even more if the road ahead includes strong support for peacebuilding as well."

India has highlighted how it "prioritizes institution-building" as part of its global peace-building efforts, and these efforts are focused on "extensive development partnerships with developing countries" in Asia and Africa.

India has highlighted how it "prioritizes institution-building" as part of its global peace-building efforts, and these efforts are focused on "extensive development partnerships with developing countries" in Asia and Africa. Indian diplomat Pratik Mathur, speaking at the United Nations General Assembly, said, "As a democracy, we are conscious of the need to prioritize institution building, in particular, governance structures to strengthen institutional capacity and the rule of law, taking into account the views of the host government" and "consequently, these need to be the building blocks on which peace-building should rest." He made the comments at the annual UN General assembly debate on peacebuilding and sustaining peace. As part of the development support globally, in 2017, India established the India-UN Development Partnership Fund. In 4 years, the Fund has developed a portfolio of 64 development projects in partnership with 48 developing countries. These countries include 17 countries in Africa. Mathur, who is a counsellor at the Indian mission to the United Nations, said, "India, through its extensive development partnership with developing countries, particularly in Africa and Asia, has always played a constructive and significant role in the context of peacebuilding. " The India-UN Development Partnership Fund has been used for projects related to climate resilience, environmental sustainability, gender equality, renewable energy, improving maternal health etc. The Indian diplomat explained, "India has and continues to assist countries bilaterally in post-conflict situations by providing substantial grants and soft loans". He added, "In the sphere of training, for example, for countries emerging out of conflict situations in Africa, our focused training in the areas of electoral administration, good governance, etc. has been deeply valued by these countries." When it comes to Africa, India has executed 189 developmental projects in 37 African countries and currently, around 77 projects are under execution. The Indian government has also committed US $1.7 billion in soft loans for solar projects on the continent and has offered 50,000 scholarships to African students. He also spoke about India's support for Afghanistan. He said, "In our neighbourhood, for instance, in Afghanistan, India is also contributing to peacebuilding efforts. Our development partnership, including more than 550 Community Development Projects covering all 34 provinces of the country, is aimed at strengthening Afghanistan. " India has been a major donor to Afghanistan in the last 20 years. It has built several major infrastructure projects in the country, like the India-Afghanistan friendship dam in Herat, the Afghan Parliament. Pratik is his closing comments pointed out that, "India has always been known for its unflinching commitment to peace-keeping" and "we are convinced that nation-building activities will be strengthened even more if the road ahead includes strong support for peacebuilding as well."

We prioritise 'institution-building' as part of peace-building, says diplomat Pratik Mathur at UNGA

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday highlighted India's commitment to restore degraded land while speaking at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).

He was speaking in his capacity as the President of the 14th Session of the Conference of Parties of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD).

Joining the "UN High-Level Dialogue on Desertification, Land Degradation and Drought” virtually, he said, "We are on track to achieve our national commitment of land degradation neutrality. We are also working towards restoring 26 million hectares of degraded land by 2030." Adding, "This would contribute to India’s commitment to achieve an additional carbon sink of 2.5 to 3 billion tonnes of Carbon dioxide equivalent."

Desertification and&nbsp;land degradation are key global issues of concern as part of the climate change crisis. India is establishing a Centre of Excellence to promote a scientific approach towards land degradation issues.

The PM pointed out, "In India, over the last 10 years, around three million hectares of forest cover had been added. This has enhanced the combined forest cover to almost one-fourth of the country’s total area."

New Delhi is also assisting fellow developing countries to develop land restoration strategies as part of South-South Cooperation. Land degradation affects over two-thirds of the world today.

During the address, PM pointed out how in the Banni region of the Rann of Kutch in state of Gujarat, land restoration is done by developing grasslands. This has not only helped in "achieving land degradation neutrality" but also supports pastoral activities and livelihood by promoting animal husbandry.

"It is mankind’s collective responsibility to reverse the damage to land caused by human activity", PM said while terming leaving a "health planet for our future generations" a "sacred duty".

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday highlighted India's commitment to restore degraded land while speaking at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). He was speaking in his capacity as the President of the 14th Session of the Conference of Parties of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD).

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday highlighted India's commitment to restore degraded land while speaking at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). He was speaking in his capacity as the President of the 14th Session of the Conference of Parties of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD). Joining the "UN High-Level Dialogue on Desertification, Land Degradation and Drought” virtually, he said, "We are on track to achieve our national commitment of land degradation neutrality. We are also working towards restoring 26 million hectares of degraded land by 2030." Adding, "This would contribute to India’s commitment to achieve an additional carbon sink of 2.5 to 3 billion tonnes of Carbon dioxide equivalent." Desertification and land degradation are key global issues of concern as part of the climate change crisis. India is establishing a Centre of Excellence to promote a scientific approach towards land degradation issues. The PM pointed out, "In India, over the last 10 years, around three million hectares of forest cover had been added. This has enhanced the combined forest cover to almost one-fourth of the country’s total area." New Delhi is also assisting fellow developing countries to develop land restoration strategies as part of South-South Cooperation. Land degradation affects over two-thirds of the world today. During the address, PM pointed out how in the Banni region of the Rann of Kutch in state of Gujarat, land restoration is done by developing grasslands. This has not only helped in "achieving land degradation neutrality" but also supports pastoral activities and livelihood by promoting animal husbandry. "It is mankind’s collective responsibility to reverse the damage to land caused by human activity", PM said while terming leaving a "health planet for our future generations" a "sacred duty".

At UNGA, PM Modi highlights India's commitments to restore degraded land

India has highlighted how terrorists are using drones as a "low-cost option" at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on Monday. The development comes even as, over the weekend, drones were used to mount an attack on the technical area of the Jammu Air Force Station. 
&nbsp; 
Speaking at the United Nations General Assembly, V S K Kaumudi, Special Secretary (Internal Security), Ministry of Home Affairs said, "Another add-on to existing worries is the use of drones", explaining that they are a "low-cost option and easily available." The utilisation of these aerial/sub-surface platforms for sinister purposes by terrorist groups, such as intelligence collection, weapon/explosives delivery and targeted attacks" has become an "imminent danger and challenge for security agencies worldwide." 
&nbsp; 
Kaumudi pointed out, "The possibility of the use of weaponized drones for terrorist purposes against strategic and commercial assets calls for serious attention by the member states", adding, "We have witnessed terrorists using unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) to smuggle weapons across borders." 
&nbsp; 
He was addressing the second High-Level Conference of the Heads of the Counter-Terrorism Agencies of the Member States. 
 
The use of drones during the Jammu incident was the first-ever use of drones in an attack in India. The attack led to "two low-intensity explosions" and "minor damage to the roof of a building", according to the Indian Air Force. Since then, there have been more cases of drones being spotted.

This is not the first time India has expressed its worries over drones. At last week's SCO NSA meeting, NSA Ajit Doval raised the issue of the need to monitor new technologies used by terrorists, such as drones for weapon smuggling.

The Indian official slammed Pakistan during his address. He said, "It is high time that the international community called upon Pakistan to take effective, verifiable, and irreversible actions against terror outfits operating on the territory under its control and not take the high road of morality, which is only laden with mines of falsehood."

India has highlighted how terrorists are using drones as a "low-cost option" at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on Monday. The development comes even as, over the weekend, drones were used to mount an attack on the technical area of the Jammu Air Force Station.

India has highlighted how terrorists are using drones as a "low-cost option" at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on Monday. The development comes even as, over the weekend, drones were used to mount an attack on the technical area of the Jammu Air Force Station. Speaking at the United Nations General Assembly, V S K Kaumudi, Special Secretary (Internal Security), Ministry of Home Affairs said, "Another add-on to existing worries is the use of drones", explaining that they are a "low-cost option and easily available." The utilisation of these aerial/sub-surface platforms for sinister purposes by terrorist groups, such as intelligence collection, weapon/explosives delivery and targeted attacks" has become an "imminent danger and challenge for security agencies worldwide." Kaumudi pointed out, "The possibility of the use of weaponized drones for terrorist purposes against strategic and commercial assets calls for serious attention by the member states", adding, "We have witnessed terrorists using unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) to smuggle weapons across borders." He was addressing the second High-Level Conference of the Heads of the Counter-Terrorism Agencies of the Member States. The use of drones during the Jammu incident was the first-ever use of drones in an attack in India. The attack led to "two low-intensity explosions" and "minor damage to the roof of a building", according to the Indian Air Force. Since then, there have been more cases of drones being spotted. This is not the first time India has expressed its worries over drones. At last week's SCO NSA meeting, NSA Ajit Doval raised the issue of the need to monitor new technologies used by terrorists, such as drones for weapon smuggling. The Indian official slammed Pakistan during his address. He said, "It is high time that the international community called upon Pakistan to take effective, verifiable, and irreversible actions against terror outfits operating on the territory under its control and not take the high road of morality, which is only laden with mines of falsehood."

'Use of drones by terror groups an add-on to worries': India at UNGA

The president-elect of the seventy-sixth session of the United Nations General Assembly Abdulla Shahid is in India for his first foreign visit.

Shahid, who is the foreign minister of Maldives will hold talks with external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar and call on Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Foreign secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla will also host the minister.

A release by the ministry of external affairs said, "The visit of PGA-elect will provide an opportunity to exchange views with him on several global challenges that the United Nations is currently seized with. It will also give us an opportunity to reiterate India’s abiding commitment to multilateralism and to the UN’s leadership in confronting these challenges."

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Departing to Delhi today on an official visit as President-elect of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UNGA76?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UNGA76</a>, on the invitation of the Indian Government. 
 
Look forward to calling on PM H.E. <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a>, and meeting with EAM H.E.<a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DrSJaishankar</a> during the visit. <a href="https://t.co/QwwDCpJNkV">pic.twitter.com/QwwDCpJNkV</a>
— Abdulla Shahid (@abdulla_shahid) <a href="https://twitter.com/abdulla_shahid/status/1417779649065611266?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 21, 2021</a></blockquote>
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During the UNGA elections he got a whopping 143 votes in the 193 strong body with 97 votes stipulated as the threshold for winning the elections. The tenure of the post is one year and is considered prestigious due to authority over the working of the General Assembly.

India had strongly backed the candidature of Abdulla&nbsp;with the announcement first being made during foreign secretary Harsh Shringla's Maldives visit in November. Again during the visit of EAM Jaishankar's visit to the Maldives in February of 2021, India reiterated its continued backing for his candidature.

India's deputy ambassador to United Nations Nagaraj Naidu will be the chef du cabinet of Abdulla as the president of UNGA. This is for the first time that an Indian diplomat will be at that post and his tenure will be for a period of one year. The post is like the chief of staff or like in the Indian system PM's Principal Secretary.

New Delhi and Male share a strong relationship and amid the COVID-19&nbsp;crisis, India had sent relief such as medicines and other essentials to the country. The country&nbsp;along with Bhutan was among the first two&nbsp;countries to get India-made vaccines in January.

The Indian release highlighted that "Maldives occupies a central place as part of India’s Neighbourhood First policy and the SAGAR vision of the Prime Minister" and the "two ministers are also expected to review the entire gamut of bilateral cooperation between the two sides".

Both Jaishankar and Shahid will hold talks on Friday&nbsp;after which MoU will be signed. He will also deliver a speech on COVID-19&nbsp;and reformed multilateralism at the Indian Council of World Affairs, Sapru House at&nbsp;New Delhi.

Minister Shahid is accompanied by Member of Parliament Hussain Shaheem&nbsp;and Joint Secretary Mariyam Midhfa Naeem from the Maldives Ministry of Foreign Affairs. He is in India for 4 days and will leave on Saturday.

The president-elect of the seventy-sixth session of the United Nations General Assembly Abdulla Shahid is in India for his first foreign visit. Shahid, who is the foreign minister of Maldives will hold talks with external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar and call on Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The president-elect of the seventy-sixth session of the United Nations General Assembly Abdulla Shahid is in India for his first foreign visit. Shahid, who is the foreign minister of Maldives will hold talks with external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar and call on Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Foreign secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla will also host the minister. A release by the ministry of external affairs said, "The visit of PGA-elect will provide an opportunity to exchange views with him on several global challenges that the United Nations is currently seized with. It will also give us an opportunity to reiterate India’s abiding commitment to multilateralism and to the UN’s leadership in confronting these challenges." Departing to Delhi today on an official visit as President-elect of #UNGA76, on the invitation of the Indian Government. Look forward to calling on PM H.E. @narendramodi, and meeting with EAM H.E.@DrSJaishankar during the visit. pic.twitter.com/QwwDCpJNkV — Abdulla Shahid (@abdulla_shahid) July 21, 2021 × During the UNGA elections he got a whopping 143 votes in the 193 strong body with 97 votes stipulated as the threshold for winning the elections. The tenure of the post is one year and is considered prestigious due to authority over the working of the General Assembly. India had strongly backed the candidature of Abdulla with the announcement first being made during foreign secretary Harsh Shringla's Maldives visit in November. Again during the visit of EAM Jaishankar's visit to the Maldives in February of 2021, India reiterated its continued backing for his candidature. India's deputy ambassador to United Nations Nagaraj Naidu will be the chef du cabinet of Abdulla as the president of UNGA. This is for the first time that an Indian diplomat will be at that post and his tenure will be for a period of one year. The post is like the chief of staff or like in the Indian system PM's Principal Secretary. New Delhi and Male share a strong relationship and amid the COVID-19 crisis, India had sent relief such as medicines and other essentials to the country. The country along with Bhutan was among the first two countries to get India-made vaccines in January. The Indian release highlighted that "Maldives occupies a central place as part of India’s Neighbourhood First policy and the SAGAR vision of the Prime Minister" and the "two ministers are also expected to review the entire gamut of bilateral cooperation between the two sides". Both Jaishankar and Shahid will hold talks on Friday after which MoU will be signed. He will also deliver a speech on COVID-19 and reformed multilateralism at the Indian Council of World Affairs, Sapru House at New Delhi. Minister Shahid is accompanied by Member of Parliament Hussain Shaheem and Joint Secretary Mariyam Midhfa Naeem from the Maldives Ministry of Foreign Affairs. He is in India for 4 days and will leave on Saturday.

As UNGA president-elect, Abdulla Shahid visits India in his first foreign visit

Union Minister of State (MoS) for External Affairs Meenakshi Lekhi on Thursday met Abdulla Shahid, President-elect of the 76th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York and discussed issues like COVID-19 vaccines, gender, youth, human rights and environment.

Taking on Twitter, Lekhi said, "Met President-elect of the 76th UNGA @abdulla_shahid. We discussed his vision and #PresidencyOfHope for the session including COVID-19 vaccines, gender, youth, human rights and environment."

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Met President elect of the 76th UNGA <a href="https://twitter.com/abdulla_shahid?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@abdulla_shahid</a>. 
 
We discussed his vision and <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PresidencyOfHope?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PresidencyOfHope</a> for the session including COVID-19 vaccines, gender, youth, human rights and environment. <a href="https://t.co/AbmJTZwZm6">pic.twitter.com/AbmJTZwZm6</a>
— Meenakashi Lekhi (@M_Lekhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/M_Lekhi/status/1435805780545003526?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 9, 2021</a></blockquote>
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"Very good to meet with the Minister of State at @MEAIndia, HE @M_Lekhi in New York, and discuss my priorities for #UNGA76 with her. #India is a champion of multilateralism. And I am confident of India`s support to the #PresidencyOfHope," Shahid`s tweet read.

Earlier, India had supported the Maldives for the presidency of the 76th United Nations General Assembly, during the visit of Foreign Secretary Harsh Shringla to the island country in November 2020.

Union Minister of State (MoS) for External Affairs Meenakshi Lekhi on Thursday met Abdulla Shahid, President-elect of the 76th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York and discussed issues like COVID-19 vaccines, gender, youth, human rights and environment.

Union Minister of State (MoS) for External Affairs Meenakshi Lekhi on Thursday met Abdulla Shahid, President-elect of the 76th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York and discussed issues like COVID-19 vaccines, gender, youth, human rights and environment. Taking on Twitter, Lekhi said, "Met President-elect of the 76th UNGA @abdulla_shahid. We discussed his vision and #PresidencyOfHope for the session including COVID-19 vaccines, gender, youth, human rights and environment." Met President elect of the 76th UNGA @abdulla_shahid. We discussed his vision and #PresidencyOfHope for the session including COVID-19 vaccines, gender, youth, human rights and environment. pic.twitter.com/AbmJTZwZm6 — Meenakashi Lekhi (@M_Lekhi) September 9, 2021 × "Very good to meet with the Minister of State at @MEAIndia, HE @M_Lekhi in New York, and discuss my priorities for #UNGA76 with her. #India is a champion of multilateralism. And I am confident of India`s support to the #PresidencyOfHope," Shahid`s tweet read. Earlier, India had supported the Maldives for the presidency of the 76th United Nations General Assembly, during the visit of Foreign Secretary Harsh Shringla to the island country in November 2020.

Union Minister Meenakshi Lekhi meets UNGA President-elect Abdulla Shahid

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (September 16) inaugurated Defence Offices Complexes at Kasturba Gandhi Marg and Africa Avenue in New Delhi.

The new Defence Offices Complexes will accommodate around 7,000 officials from the Ministry of Defence and the Armed Forces, including the Army, Navy and Air Force. The buildings will provide modern, secure and functional working spaces.

An Integrated Command and Control Centre has been established for managing building operations, while also catering to the end to end safety and surveillance of both the buildings.

<img alt="Central Vista" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2810a24e-70ed-4e0a-bb2c-74600cd0d493" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/central%20vista.jpg" />

During his address at the time of inauguration, PM Modi slammed critics of the Central Vista project that involves major overhaul of Indian capital's Lutyens area. Modi said that those criticising the project never mentioned that Defence Offices Complexes are also a part of the project as that would expose their 'falsity', adding that modern infrastructure is pertinent for economic development of the country.

"The people who were criticising the Central Vista project never mentioned the Defence Offices Complexes, which is also part of the Centra Vista... They knew their falsity would be exposed," he said.

"When we are focusing on ease of living and ease of doing business, modern infrastructure plays an equally important role. This is the idea behind the work that is being done in the development of the Central Vista," PM Modi said.

Mentioning the importance of the new complexes, he said: "These new Defence office complexes will now make it feasible for our armies to operate in better working conditions with all modern amenities."

"The construction of the Defence Offices Complexes completed within 12 months amid the COVID-19 pandemic. This provided employment to hundreds of labourers during the challenging pandemic period."

He also hoped that the construction of the new Parliament building will be completed in the time frame given earlier.

Speaking at the same event, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said: "Previous buildings were in a tattered state, affected working conditions of our officers, optimum utilisation of space was not done, which is why this complex has been brought up. Over 7,000 workers can be accommodated in good working conditions."

The new Defence Office Complexes are state-of-the-art and energy-efficient, with comprehensive security management measures. One of the defining features of these buildings is the use of new and sustainable construction technology called LGSF (Light gauge steel frame), which reduced construction time from 24-30 months in the case of conventional RCC construction. The buildings utilize resource-efficient green technology and promote environment-friendly.

(With inputs from agencies)

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (September 16) inaugurated Defence Offices Complexes at Kasturba Gandhi Marg and Africa Avenue in New Delhi. The new Defence Offices Complexes will accommodate around 7,000 officials from the Ministry of Defence and the Armed Forces, including the Army, Navy and Air Force.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (September 16) inaugurated Defence Offices Complexes at Kasturba Gandhi Marg and Africa Avenue in New Delhi. The new Defence Offices Complexes will accommodate around 7,000 officials from the Ministry of Defence and the Armed Forces, including the Army, Navy and Air Force. The buildings will provide modern, secure and functional working spaces. An Integrated Command and Control Centre has been established for managing building operations, while also catering to the end to end safety and surveillance of both the buildings. During his address at the time of inauguration, PM Modi slammed critics of the Central Vista project that involves major overhaul of Indian capital's Lutyens area. Modi said that those criticising the project never mentioned that Defence Offices Complexes are also a part of the project as that would expose their 'falsity', adding that modern infrastructure is pertinent for economic development of the country. "The people who were criticising the Central Vista project never mentioned the Defence Offices Complexes, which is also part of the Centra Vista... They knew their falsity would be exposed," he said. "When we are focusing on ease of living and ease of doing business, modern infrastructure plays an equally important role. This is the idea behind the work that is being done in the development of the Central Vista," PM Modi said. Mentioning the importance of the new complexes, he said: "These new Defence office complexes will now make it feasible for our armies to operate in better working conditions with all modern amenities." "The construction of the Defence Offices Complexes completed within 12 months amid the COVID-19 pandemic. This provided employment to hundreds of labourers during the challenging pandemic period." He also hoped that the construction of the new Parliament building will be completed in the time frame given earlier. Speaking at the same event, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said: "Previous buildings were in a tattered state, affected working conditions of our officers, optimum utilisation of space was not done, which is why this complex has been brought up. Over 7,000 workers can be accommodated in good working conditions." The new Defence Office Complexes are state-of-the-art and energy-efficient, with comprehensive security management measures. One of the defining features of these buildings is the use of new and sustainable construction technology called LGSF (Light gauge steel frame), which reduced construction time from 24-30 months in the case of conventional RCC construction. The buildings utilize resource-efficient green technology and promote environment-friendly. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian PM Modi inaugurates new defence offices, slams Central Vista critics

People of the Indian state of Bihar are startled about billions of rupees being credited to the bank accounts of two children.

On September 15, two class 6 kids, Ashish Kumar and Gurucharan Biswas received Rs 6,20,11,100 and Rs 90,52,21,223 in their bank accounts, respectively, in Katihar district.

Both children are from Bagahura Panchayat's Pastia village. Uttar Bihar Gramin Bank is where they have bank accounts.

The district magistrate of Katihar, Udayan Mishra, also acknowledged that the youngsters had received a large sum of money.&nbsp;

"Big amounts were credited to the accounts of two children. The amount can be seen in the mini statements. The senior officials of the bank are being informed, " Mishra said.

"As soon as we learnt about the money being credited in the accounts of two children, we put the accounts on hold and stopped withdrawals. When I inquired with the parents of the children, they were also unable to reveal the source of the fund. Now, we are investigating the matter to find out who is the sender, " said M.K. Madhukar, the LDM of Uttar Bihar Gramin Bank.

This is the second occasion in recent months that a large incorrect amount has been sent to a bank customer or made to appear on a bank statement in Bihar.

A guy from a village on the outskirts of Patna was sentenced to prison for failing to refund nearly Rs 5,00,000 that had been credited to his account by mistake.

The man claimed the money was government aid given by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and refused to return it to the bank.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

People of the Indian state of Bihar are startled about billions of rupees being credited to the bank accounts of two children. On September 15, two class 6 kids, Ashish Kumar and Gurucharan Biswas received Rs 6,20,11,100 and Rs 90,52,21,223 in their bank accounts, respectively, in Katihar district.

People of the Indian state of Bihar are startled about billions of rupees being credited to the bank accounts of two children. On September 15, two class 6 kids, Ashish Kumar and Gurucharan Biswas received Rs 6,20,11,100 and Rs 90,52,21,223 in their bank accounts, respectively, in Katihar district. Both children are from Bagahura Panchayat's Pastia village. Uttar Bihar Gramin Bank is where they have bank accounts. The district magistrate of Katihar, Udayan Mishra, also acknowledged that the youngsters had received a large sum of money. "Big amounts were credited to the accounts of two children. The amount can be seen in the mini statements. The senior officials of the bank are being informed, " Mishra said. "As soon as we learnt about the money being credited in the accounts of two children, we put the accounts on hold and stopped withdrawals. When I inquired with the parents of the children, they were also unable to reveal the source of the fund. Now, we are investigating the matter to find out who is the sender, " said M.K. Madhukar, the LDM of Uttar Bihar Gramin Bank. This is the second occasion in recent months that a large incorrect amount has been sent to a bank customer or made to appear on a bank statement in Bihar. A guy from a village on the outskirts of Patna was sentenced to prison for failing to refund nearly Rs 5,00,000 that had been credited to his account by mistake. The man claimed the money was government aid given by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and refused to return it to the bank. (With inputs from agencies)

Two Indian boys find over Rs 9 billion credited into their bank accounts

Afghanistan and expansion of the Shanghai Co-operation Organisation (SCO) will be key focus at the grouping's heads-of-state-summit that will take place on Friday (September 17). The summit, being hosted by Tajikistan, will take place in its capital Dushanbe in a hybrid mode. The summit will see a meeting on Afghanistan in which SCO member countries will be present along with those part of Collective Security Treaty organisation (CSTO). The CSTO is an alliance of Russia, Belarus, Armenia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan

SCO summit-host Tajikistan shares a land border with Afghanistan and since Taliban takeover, raised its concerns publicly many times.

SCO grouping has 8 member states--Russia, China, India, Pakistan, and 4 central Asian countries--Tajikistan, &nbsp;Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan. Afghanistan is an observer member country and situation in the country impacts many of the SCO countries directly, especially central Asian states who share border with it and fear a refugee influx.

One of the key outcomes of the summit will on expansion of the grouping with process to incorporate Iran and a full member set to start and number of countries in the gulf getting dialogue or observer status. Iran will get full membership after completion of due SCO legal process.

India Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be addressing the SCO heads of state summit on Friday. PM is expected to address the meet between 11.30 am to 11.40 am after the welcome address by Tajik President Emomali Rahmon.

External affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar will be representing India at the meet in person in Dushanbe. This is the 4th time India is participating in the summit as a full-fledged member state. India's key focus at the meet will expectedly be on counter-terror, economic cooperation and most significantly, Afghanistan.&nbsp;

The Ministry of External Affairs in a statement said, "At the Summit, the leaders are expected to review the organization’s activities over the past two decades and discuss the state and prospects of future cooperation. Topical issues of regional and international importance are also expected to be discussed.'

On the sidelines of the meeting EAM will have number of bilateral meets including with his Tajik and Iranian counterparts. This will be the first in-person meet between EAM Jaishankar and Iran's new FM Hossein Amir-Abdollahian. The heads of state and foreign minister will be arriving in the capital later today. EAM Jaishankar left for the city early on Thursday. On Friday, the summit will start around 11.30 am IST.

This Summit is significant as SCO celebrates 20th anniversary of its foundation in 2021 and Tajikistan marks 30 years of its independence. Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Putin wil take part in this year's summit virtually, while Pakistani PM Imran Khan will be present in person. Last year, India chaired the 19th Meeting of the SCO Council of Heads of Government (CHG) in virtual format.

Afghanistan and expansion of the Shanghai Co-operation Organisation (SCO) will be key focus at the grouping's heads-of-state-summit that will take place on Friday (September 17).

Afghanistan and expansion of the Shanghai Co-operation Organisation (SCO) will be key focus at the grouping's heads-of-state-summit that will take place on Friday (September 17). The summit, being hosted by Tajikistan, will take place in its capital Dushanbe in a hybrid mode. The summit will see a meeting on Afghanistan in which SCO member countries will be present along with those part of Collective Security Treaty organisation (CSTO). The CSTO is an alliance of Russia, Belarus, Armenia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan SCO summit-host Tajikistan shares a land border with Afghanistan and since Taliban takeover, raised its concerns publicly many times. SCO grouping has 8 member states--Russia, China, India, Pakistan, and 4 central Asian countries--Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan. Afghanistan is an observer member country and situation in the country impacts many of the SCO countries directly, especially central Asian states who share border with it and fear a refugee influx. One of the key outcomes of the summit will on expansion of the grouping with process to incorporate Iran and a full member set to start and number of countries in the gulf getting dialogue or observer status. Iran will get full membership after completion of due SCO legal process. India Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be addressing the SCO heads of state summit on Friday. PM is expected to address the meet between 11.30 am to 11.40 am after the welcome address by Tajik President Emomali Rahmon. External affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar will be representing India at the meet in person in Dushanbe. This is the 4th time India is participating in the summit as a full-fledged member state. India's key focus at the meet will expectedly be on counter-terror, economic cooperation and most significantly, Afghanistan. The Ministry of External Affairs in a statement said, "At the Summit, the leaders are expected to review the organization’s activities over the past two decades and discuss the state and prospects of future cooperation. Topical issues of regional and international importance are also expected to be discussed.' On the sidelines of the meeting EAM will have number of bilateral meets including with his Tajik and Iranian counterparts. This will be the first in-person meet between EAM Jaishankar and Iran's new FM Hossein Amir-Abdollahian. The heads of state and foreign minister will be arriving in the capital later today. EAM Jaishankar left for the city early on Thursday. On Friday, the summit will start around 11.30 am IST. This Summit is significant as SCO celebrates 20th anniversary of its foundation in 2021 and Tajikistan marks 30 years of its independence. Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Putin wil take part in this year's summit virtually, while Pakistani PM Imran Khan will be present in person. Last year, India chaired the 19th Meeting of the SCO Council of Heads of Government (CHG) in virtual format.

Afghanistan, expansion key focus at SCO summit, PM Modi to address meet

The Delhi Police Special Cell announced on Tuesday that it had cracked a Pakistan-based terror organisation and detained six people, including two who had been trained in Pakistan.

A Delhi Police Special Cell official revealed details of the multi-state operation, saying that they had received information from federal authorities that a plot was being planned to carry out terror attacks in major cities throughout the country.

The Special Cell formed a team under the leadership of DCP Pramod Khushwaha and ACPs Hridya Bhushan and Lalit Joshi after getting this information.&nbsp; 
 
The terrorists were allegedly planning several blasts across the country during the upcoming festivals, police said.

The accused, identified as Jaan Mohammad Shaikh (47) alias 'Sameer', Osama (22), Moolchand (47), Zeeshan Qamar (28), Mohd Abu Bakar (23) and Mohd Amir Javed (31), were arrested following raids in Delhi and parts of Uttar Pradesh, they said.

"After analyzing human and technical inputs, we realized that it was a very big network that was spread in different states. On Tuesday morning we concluded this operation by conducting multiple raids in different states," Special Commissioner of Police, Special Cell, Neeraj Thakur, said at a press briefing.

Sameer, a Maharashtra resident, was apprehended in Kota while on his way to Delhi in a train, while two others were apprehended in the national capital. 
 
The underworld operative Sameer, a close contact of Anees Ibrahim, who is brother of Dawood Ibrahim, was tasked by a Pak-based person connected with underworld operatives hiding in Pakistan, to ensure smooth delivery of improvised explosive devices (IED), sophisticated weapons and grenades to different entities in India.

Anees Ibrahim, who is presently based in Pakistan, is stated to be the underworld connect of this module, police said.&nbsp;

The Special Cell, in collaboration with the Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorist Squad (UP-ATS), conducted operations across the state and arrested three more suspects based on further human and technical information.

Two of the six arrested were transferred to Pakistan via Muscat, where they were trained to use explosives and weaponry, including the AK-47, according to Thakur.&nbsp;

"The training continued for 15 days after which they returned to Muscat. They revealed that during their training in Pakistan, there were also 14-15 Bengali speaking persons in their group," the special cell official said.

Thakur said that it seems like the terror operation was closely coordinated from across the border. He said the module was divided into two teams.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Delhi Police Special Cell announced on Tuesday that it had cracked a Pakistan-based terror organisation and detained six people, including two who had been trained in Pakistan.

The Delhi Police Special Cell announced on Tuesday that it had cracked a Pakistan-based terror organisation and detained six people, including two who had been trained in Pakistan. A Delhi Police Special Cell official revealed details of the multi-state operation, saying that they had received information from federal authorities that a plot was being planned to carry out terror attacks in major cities throughout the country. The Special Cell formed a team under the leadership of DCP Pramod Khushwaha and ACPs Hridya Bhushan and Lalit Joshi after getting this information. The terrorists were allegedly planning several blasts across the country during the upcoming festivals, police said. The accused, identified as Jaan Mohammad Shaikh (47) alias 'Sameer', Osama (22), Moolchand (47), Zeeshan Qamar (28), Mohd Abu Bakar (23) and Mohd Amir Javed (31), were arrested following raids in Delhi and parts of Uttar Pradesh, they said. "After analyzing human and technical inputs, we realized that it was a very big network that was spread in different states. On Tuesday morning we concluded this operation by conducting multiple raids in different states," Special Commissioner of Police, Special Cell, Neeraj Thakur, said at a press briefing. Sameer, a Maharashtra resident, was apprehended in Kota while on his way to Delhi in a train, while two others were apprehended in the national capital. The underworld operative Sameer, a close contact of Anees Ibrahim, who is brother of Dawood Ibrahim, was tasked by a Pak-based person connected with underworld operatives hiding in Pakistan, to ensure smooth delivery of improvised explosive devices (IED), sophisticated weapons and grenades to different entities in India. Anees Ibrahim, who is presently based in Pakistan, is stated to be the underworld connect of this module, police said. The Special Cell, in collaboration with the Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorist Squad (UP-ATS), conducted operations across the state and arrested three more suspects based on further human and technical information. Two of the six arrested were transferred to Pakistan via Muscat, where they were trained to use explosives and weaponry, including the AK-47, according to Thakur. "The training continued for 15 days after which they returned to Muscat. They revealed that during their training in Pakistan, there were also 14-15 Bengali speaking persons in their group," the special cell official said. Thakur said that it seems like the terror operation was closely coordinated from across the border. He said the module was divided into two teams. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian Police bust Pakistan-organised terror module; six terrorists arrested

Suhail Shaheen, a Taliban spokesman, said on Tuesday that India's concerns over China's Belt and Road Initiative supporting Afghanistan are "inappropriate," according to The Global Times.

According to the Council on Foreign Relations, 139 countries had signed agreements with China as of March, with China assisting these countries in the construction of roads and ports as part of the Belt and Road Initiative.&nbsp;

Some of India's concerns aren't appropriate and neither are they plausible, said Taliban Spokesperson Suhail Shaheen, in an interview with Chinese mouthpiece Global Times.

"While having ended the occupation, we need to focus on the reconstruction of Afghanistan. And now China has come forward to help us with the construction of Afghanistan to create jobs for our people. So what is wrong with that?" asked Shaheen.

"China can also take part in the construction of Afghanistan and assist in other essential sectors. After this, both countries can then enter into mutually beneficial bilateral agreements which best serve the interests of both countries through mutual respect."

With the evacuation of US and NATO forces from Afghanistan now complete, the Taliban leadership is looking to China for massive investments in the volatile country over the next six months. 
Taliban spokesman Zabiullah Mujahid previously stated that the group "desires" to be a part of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

According to Nikkei Asia, China has been courting the Taliban for future projects in Afghanistan since 2018.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Suhail Shaheen, a Taliban spokesman, said on Tuesday that India's concerns over China's Belt and Road Initiative supporting Afghanistan are "inappropriate," according to The Global Times.

Suhail Shaheen, a Taliban spokesman, said on Tuesday that India's concerns over China's Belt and Road Initiative supporting Afghanistan are "inappropriate," according to The Global Times. According to the Council on Foreign Relations, 139 countries had signed agreements with China as of March, with China assisting these countries in the construction of roads and ports as part of the Belt and Road Initiative. Some of India's concerns aren't appropriate and neither are they plausible, said Taliban Spokesperson Suhail Shaheen, in an interview with Chinese mouthpiece Global Times. "While having ended the occupation, we need to focus on the reconstruction of Afghanistan. And now China has come forward to help us with the construction of Afghanistan to create jobs for our people. So what is wrong with that?" asked Shaheen. "China can also take part in the construction of Afghanistan and assist in other essential sectors. After this, both countries can then enter into mutually beneficial bilateral agreements which best serve the interests of both countries through mutual respect." With the evacuation of US and NATO forces from Afghanistan now complete, the Taliban leadership is looking to China for massive investments in the volatile country over the next six months. Taliban spokesman Zabiullah Mujahid previously stated that the group "desires" to be a part of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). According to Nikkei Asia, China has been courting the Taliban for future projects in Afghanistan since 2018. (With inputs from agencies)

India’s concern on China helping Afghanistan is inappropriate: Taliban

India's cabinet on Wednesday (September 15) approved an incentive&nbsp;scheme&nbsp;for the automobile sector aimed at&nbsp;boosting production of electric and hydrogen&nbsp;fuel-powered&nbsp;vehicles&nbsp;and promoting the manufacture of drones.

The government will give about $3.5&nbsp;billion in incentives to auto companies and drone manufacturers over a five-year period, Anurag Thakur, minister of information and broadcasting, told reporters.

"The incentive&nbsp;scheme&nbsp;has been designed to help&nbsp;India&nbsp;become a global player in the automobile sector," Thakur said, adding it would also&nbsp;boost&nbsp;local manufacturing.

The proposal comes at a time when annual car sales in&nbsp;India&nbsp;have fallen to their lowest in a decade due to the pandemic which followed an economic slowdown in 2019. Sales of electric&nbsp;vehicles&nbsp;(EVs) make up a fraction of the total.

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Several years ago,&nbsp;India&nbsp;was tipped to become the world's third-largest car market by 2020, after China and the United States, with sales of 5 million a year. Instead, car sales stagnated at around 3 million a year even before the pandemic.

Ford Motor Co last week joined General Motors and Harley Davidson in retreating from&nbsp;India, where it has accumulated losses of $2&nbsp;billion. The US&nbsp;automaker said it would stop making cars in&nbsp;India, taking a further $2&nbsp;billion&nbsp;hit.

The government said in a statement the incentive&nbsp;scheme&nbsp;was expected to help attract new investment of about 425&nbsp;billion&nbsp;rupees in the auto sector.

The incentives will range from 8% to 18% of the sales value of the&nbsp;vehicles&nbsp;or components, and will be given to companies if they meet certain conditions such as a minimum investment over five years and 10% growth in sales each year.

Carmakers, for instance, would need to invest 20&nbsp;billion&nbsp;rupees over the period, while auto parts companies must invest 2.5&nbsp;billion&nbsp;rupees, the government said.

The original plan was to spend $8&nbsp;billion&nbsp;to incentivise auto and auto part makers to build mainly gasoline&nbsp;vehicles&nbsp;and their components for domestic sale and export, with some added benefit for EVs.

However, the&nbsp;scheme's focus was redrawn&nbsp;to incentivise&nbsp;clean&nbsp;fuel&nbsp;vehicles&nbsp;as Tesla Inc gears up to enter&nbsp;India.

Auto parts makers will get incentives to produce components for&nbsp;clean&nbsp;cars as well as for investing in advanced technologies like sensors and radars used in connected cars, automatic transmission, cruise control and other electronics.

Sunjay Kapur, president of the Automotive Component Manufacturers Association of&nbsp;India&nbsp;(ACMA), said that with global economies de-risking their supply chains, the&nbsp;scheme&nbsp;will help develop the country into "an attractive alternative source of high-end auto components".

India&nbsp;sees&nbsp;clean&nbsp;auto technology as central to its strategy to reduce oil dependence and cut debilitating air pollution in its major cities, while also meeting its emissions commitment under the Paris Climate Accord.

Domestic automaker Tata Motors is the largest seller of electric cars in&nbsp;India, with rival Mahindra &amp; Mahindra and motor-bike maker TVS Motor firming up their EV plans.&nbsp;India's biggest carmaker Maruti Suzuki, however, has no near-term plan to launch EVs.

Girish Wagh, executive director at Tata Motors, said in a statement the&nbsp;scheme&nbsp;would accelerate "the country's progress towards green mobility" and help attract foreign investment.

India's cabinet on Wednesday (September 15) approved an incentive scheme for the automobile sector aimed at boosting production of electric and hydrogen fuel-powered vehicles and promoting the manufacture of drones.

India's cabinet on Wednesday (September 15) approved an incentive scheme for the automobile sector aimed at boosting production of electric and hydrogen fuel-powered vehicles and promoting the manufacture of drones. The government will give about $3.5 billion in incentives to auto companies and drone manufacturers over a five-year period, Anurag Thakur, minister of information and broadcasting, told reporters. "The incentive scheme has been designed to help India become a global player in the automobile sector," Thakur said, adding it would also boost local manufacturing. The proposal comes at a time when annual car sales in India have fallen to their lowest in a decade due to the pandemic which followed an economic slowdown in 2019. Sales of electric vehicles (EVs) make up a fraction of the total. ALSO READ | US citizens to pay more for organic eggs amid a trade dispute with India Several years ago, India was tipped to become the world's third-largest car market by 2020, after China and the United States, with sales of 5 million a year. Instead, car sales stagnated at around 3 million a year even before the pandemic. Ford Motor Co last week joined General Motors and Harley Davidson in retreating from India, where it has accumulated losses of $2 billion. The US automaker said it would stop making cars in India, taking a further $2 billion hit. The government said in a statement the incentive scheme was expected to help attract new investment of about 425 billion rupees in the auto sector. The incentives will range from 8% to 18% of the sales value of the vehicles or components, and will be given to companies if they meet certain conditions such as a minimum investment over five years and 10% growth in sales each year. Carmakers, for instance, would need to invest 20 billion rupees over the period, while auto parts companies must invest 2.5 billion rupees, the government said. The original plan was to spend $8 billion to incentivise auto and auto part makers to build mainly gasoline vehicles and their components for domestic sale and export, with some added benefit for EVs. However, the scheme's focus was redrawn to incentivise clean fuel vehicles as Tesla Inc gears up to enter India. Auto parts makers will get incentives to produce components for clean cars as well as for investing in advanced technologies like sensors and radars used in connected cars, automatic transmission, cruise control and other electronics. Sunjay Kapur, president of the Automotive Component Manufacturers Association of India (ACMA), said that with global economies de-risking their supply chains, the scheme will help develop the country into "an attractive alternative source of high-end auto components". India sees clean auto technology as central to its strategy to reduce oil dependence and cut debilitating air pollution in its major cities, while also meeting its emissions commitment under the Paris Climate Accord. Domestic automaker Tata Motors is the largest seller of electric cars in India, with rival Mahindra & Mahindra and motor-bike maker TVS Motor firming up their EV plans. India's biggest carmaker Maruti Suzuki, however, has no near-term plan to launch EVs. Girish Wagh, executive director at Tata Motors, said in a statement the scheme would accelerate "the country's progress towards green mobility" and help attract foreign investment.

India approves $3.5 billion scheme to boost clean fuel vehicles

The New Delhi police have busted a terror module which is said to have been organized by Pakistan. Six suspects have been arrested in the national capital including two terrorists trained in Pakistan.

India: Six terror suspects arrested in New Delhi

Indian space entrepreneurs and experts pointed out the need for India’s space industry to tap into the global market, as well as form a common platform to exhibit their capabilities. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Supplying aerospace products, services or components to the global market is a crucial focus area for India, given the country’s existing capabilities and the growing global private space industry. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Experts also urged the Government of India to act as a catalyst and ensure that government contracts and financial grants were offered to India’s private sector, to enable further private investment and growth. &nbsp;&nbsp;

This discussion was helmed by Dr S&nbsp;Somanath, Director of Vikram Sarabhai Space Center (ISRO), which is India’s lead center for development of rockets and related technologies. &nbsp;&nbsp;

This exchange of ideas under the theme of ‘Increasing Global partnership in Space sector’ was held as a part of an ISRO-CII conference. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Setting the tone for the session, Dr Somanath mentioned that ISRO had signed about 260 agreements and MoUs with 60 nations and 5 multi-national entities, he added that India’s historical long-term cooperation in space domain had been with France, Japan, Russia, USA and Germany. &nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;SpaceX’s to send four people into space

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The senior ISRO scientist also touched upon how global partnerships were mutually beneficial, and how India had the potential to become a manufacturing hub for space technology, with Indian firms expanding to foreign markets and vice versa. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Speaking of some of India’s initiatives to help friendly-foreign countries, M Sanakaran, Director, UR Rao Satellite Centre, listed out India’s SAARC satellite for South Asian nations, UNNATI programme to train foreign scientists in building small satellites, among others. &nbsp;&nbsp;

On the way ahead, he said it was important to take space technology to friendly countries that didn’t have the means. He envisaged projects where the global space powers came together for the common good of humanity. &nbsp;&nbsp;

“A global constellation of satellites for data transfer or imaging on-demand, etc are viable projects and it can be done via a partnership of various companies with joint investment and each one reaping rewards in their respective sectors,” Sankaran said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Based on a study conducted by his organisation, Satsearch, Narayan Prasad, the COO highlighted that Indian industry (over 300 suppliers of ISRO) had developed tremendous manufacturing and infrastructure capabilities over the last four decades. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-capital-bans-storage-sale-use-of-firecrackers-during-diwali-over-pollution-concerns-413273" hreflang="en">Indian capital bans storage, sale, use of firecrackers during Diwali over pollution concerns</a>

Pointing out the current global commercial space market, he said that supply chains were getting globalised and companies looked at best cost to performance ratio.&nbsp; &nbsp;

He saw immense potential for Indian companies in this domain, provided, they are given the right amount of global exposure. He also spelt out the need for a common platform (similar to Europe’s ESA Star), where Indian suppliers could publicise their capabilities and offerings. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Shaju Stephen, the CMD of Aadyah aerospace pointed out that satellites (GPS data) was driving economic activity (Uber, E-com delivery services, mapping, other services) worth $5.7 trillion in the US, every year. &nbsp;&nbsp;

On India’s unique advantage, he said that less than 20 per cent of the 195 countries in the world had access to rocket and satellite technology and launch capability. &nbsp;&nbsp;

“India is sitting on a gold mine of expertise and talent, the global space economy is projected to be worth $3 trillion by 2040. We must adopt a Public-Private-Partnership model for building space infrastructure and also have space developers, who will fund such projects,” he said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Drawing form how NASA funded and awarded crucial contracts to SpaceX, he said that ISRO had to be a catalyst for Indian government contracts and grants to go to the home-grown private sector. &nbsp;

Nitish Singh, Co-founder, Astrogate labs, spoke on the need to examine the possibility of international cooperation for critical technologies that are required to fulfill exploratory missions. &nbsp;&nbsp;

He also specified the need for a platform, in order to unite space agencies that have a certain requirement and also the service provider or company who can provide that technology, component or service.

Indian space entrepreneurs and experts pointed out the need for India’s space industry to tap into the global market, as well as form a common platform to exhibit their capabilities.

Indian space entrepreneurs and experts pointed out the need for India’s space industry to tap into the global market, as well as form a common platform to exhibit their capabilities. Supplying aerospace products, services or components to the global market is a crucial focus area for India, given the country’s existing capabilities and the growing global private space industry. Experts also urged the Government of India to act as a catalyst and ensure that government contracts and financial grants were offered to India’s private sector, to enable further private investment and growth. This discussion was helmed by Dr S Somanath, Director of Vikram Sarabhai Space Center (ISRO), which is India’s lead center for development of rockets and related technologies. This exchange of ideas under the theme of ‘Increasing Global partnership in Space sector’ was held as a part of an ISRO-CII conference. Setting the tone for the session, Dr Somanath mentioned that ISRO had signed about 260 agreements and MoUs with 60 nations and 5 multi-national entities, he added that India’s historical long-term cooperation in space domain had been with France, Japan, Russia, USA and Germany. Watch: SpaceX’s to send four people into space × The senior ISRO scientist also touched upon how global partnerships were mutually beneficial, and how India had the potential to become a manufacturing hub for space technology, with Indian firms expanding to foreign markets and vice versa. Speaking of some of India’s initiatives to help friendly-foreign countries, M Sanakaran, Director, UR Rao Satellite Centre, listed out India’s SAARC satellite for South Asian nations, UNNATI programme to train foreign scientists in building small satellites, among others. On the way ahead, he said it was important to take space technology to friendly countries that didn’t have the means. He envisaged projects where the global space powers came together for the common good of humanity. “A global constellation of satellites for data transfer or imaging on-demand, etc are viable projects and it can be done via a partnership of various companies with joint investment and each one reaping rewards in their respective sectors,” Sankaran said. Based on a study conducted by his organisation, Satsearch, Narayan Prasad, the COO highlighted that Indian industry (over 300 suppliers of ISRO) had developed tremendous manufacturing and infrastructure capabilities over the last four decades. Also Read: Indian capital bans storage, sale, use of firecrackers during Diwali over pollution concerns Pointing out the current global commercial space market, he said that supply chains were getting globalised and companies looked at best cost to performance ratio. He saw immense potential for Indian companies in this domain, provided, they are given the right amount of global exposure. He also spelt out the need for a common platform (similar to Europe’s ESA Star), where Indian suppliers could publicise their capabilities and offerings. Shaju Stephen, the CMD of Aadyah aerospace pointed out that satellites (GPS data) was driving economic activity (Uber, E-com delivery services, mapping, other services) worth $5.7 trillion in the US, every year. On India’s unique advantage, he said that less than 20 per cent of the 195 countries in the world had access to rocket and satellite technology and launch capability. “India is sitting on a gold mine of expertise and talent, the global space economy is projected to be worth $3 trillion by 2040. We must adopt a Public-Private-Partnership model for building space infrastructure and also have space developers, who will fund such projects,” he said. Drawing form how NASA funded and awarded crucial contracts to SpaceX, he said that ISRO had to be a catalyst for Indian government contracts and grants to go to the home-grown private sector. Nitish Singh, Co-founder, Astrogate labs, spoke on the need to examine the possibility of international cooperation for critical technologies that are required to fulfill exploratory missions. He also specified the need for a platform, in order to unite space agencies that have a certain requirement and also the service provider or company who can provide that technology, component or service.

Indian space industry must supply to global market, gain greater exposure, say experts

The storage, sale and use of firecrackers in the Indian capital during the Diwali season has been banned due to concerns over hazardous air pollution levels, the Delhi government said on Wednesday. &nbsp;

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पिछले 3 साल से दीवाली के समय दिल्ली के प्रदूषण की खतरनाक स्तिथि को देखते हुए पिछले साल की तरह इस बार भी हर प्रकार के पटाखों के भंडारण, बिक्री एवं उपयोग पर पूर्ण प्रतिबंध लगाया जा रहा है। जिससे लोगों की जिंदगी बचाई जा सके।
— Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) <a href="https://twitter.com/ArvindKejriwal/status/1438032729635835906?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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In a tweet, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said, "In view of the dangerous condition of Delhi's pollution during Diwali in the last three years, like last year, a complete ban is being imposed on storage, sale and use of all types of firecrackers. (This is) so that people's lives can be saved." &nbsp;

Watch | India: Kashmir gets an art gallery

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The chief minister acknowledged the last year's ban had been imposed late and had resulted in the losses for traders.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Kejriwal added, "In view of the seriousness of pollution after the stocking of firecrackers by trader... last year a complete ban was imposed late, which caused losses to traders. It is an appeal to all traders... in view of the complete ban, do not store or sell firecrackers," he tweeted. &nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/crime-against-women-in-indian-cities-decreased-by-21-in-2020-ncrb-413242" hreflang="en">Crime against women in Indian cities decreased by 21% in 2020: NCRB</a>

As air quality dipped in the week after Diwali last year, the city had witnessed a spike in coronavirus cases. &nbsp;

For some years, the air pollution levels in Delhi have been a huge concern. It has also sparked furious debates among people, who insist on bursting firecrackers, and the environment and health experts.&nbsp;

The storage, sale and use of firecrackers in the Indian capital during the Diwali season has been banned due to concerns over hazardous air pollution levels, the Delhi government said on Wednesday.

The storage, sale and use of firecrackers in the Indian capital during the Diwali season has been banned due to concerns over hazardous air pollution levels, the Delhi government said on Wednesday. पिछले 3 साल से दीवाली के समय दिल्ली के प्रदूषण की खतरनाक स्तिथि को देखते हुए पिछले साल की तरह इस बार भी हर प्रकार के पटाखों के भंडारण, बिक्री एवं उपयोग पर पूर्ण प्रतिबंध लगाया जा रहा है। जिससे लोगों की जिंदगी बचाई जा सके। — Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) September 15, 2021 × In a tweet, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said, "In view of the dangerous condition of Delhi's pollution during Diwali in the last three years, like last year, a complete ban is being imposed on storage, sale and use of all types of firecrackers. (This is) so that people's lives can be saved." Watch | India: Kashmir gets an art gallery × The chief minister acknowledged the last year's ban had been imposed late and had resulted in the losses for traders. Kejriwal added, "In view of the seriousness of pollution after the stocking of firecrackers by trader... last year a complete ban was imposed late, which caused losses to traders. It is an appeal to all traders... in view of the complete ban, do not store or sell firecrackers," he tweeted. Also Read | Crime against women in Indian cities decreased by 21% in 2020: NCRB As air quality dipped in the week after Diwali last year, the city had witnessed a spike in coronavirus cases. For some years, the air pollution levels in Delhi have been a huge concern. It has also sparked furious debates among people, who insist on bursting firecrackers, and the environment and health experts.

Indian capital bans storage, sale, use of firecrackers during Diwali over pollution concerns

Crime against women in Indian cities declined by nearly 21 per cent in the pandemic year of 2020, when compared with 2019.<o:p></o:p>

A report by the National Crime Record Bureau (NCRB) stated that nearly 35,331 cases of violence against women were registered in 2021. In 2019, however, 44,783 cases of women assault were registered by the authorities.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/prince-andrew-served-with-legal-papers-over-accusations-of-sexual-assault-412283">Prince Andrew served with legal papers over accusations of sexual assault</a>

<o:p></o:p>

The report also stated that majority of the cases (30.2 per cent) were registered under 'Cruelty by Husband or his Relatives', 19.7 per cent of cases were 'Assault on Women with Intent to Outrage her Modesty'. In addition to it, 19 per cent cases were of 'Kidnapping and Abduction of Women' and 7.2 per cent were cases of rape.<o:p></o:p>

National capital Delhi saw a significant decline of 24.18 per cent cases last year, in comparison to 2019. In 2020, 9,782 cases were reported whereas 2019 saw 12,902 registered cases of violence against women.<o:p></o:p>

Similarly, Mumbai recorded a decline from 6,519 cases in 2019 to 4,583 cases in 2020. Bengaluru cases declined from 3,486 to 2,730 and Hyderabad’s cases decreased a tad from 2,755 in 2019 to 2,390 in 2020.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-origin-canadian-mp-raj-saini-denies-sexual-misconduct-allegations-410065">Indian-origin Canadian MP Raj Saini denies sexual misconduct allegations</a></o:p>

While major metro cities recorded a decline, Kolkata and Lucknow saw an increase of 35 and 8 per cent respectively in 2020. Cases in Kolkata increased from 1,474 to 2,001 last year and Lucknow cases reached 2.636 instead of 2,425 from 2019.<o:p></o:p>

While the decrease in cases has come as a piece of good news, many also believe that it may be simply a result of repetitive and extended lockdowns imposed in India due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.<o:p></o:p>

Crime against women in Indian cities declined by nearly 21 per cent in the pandemic year of 2020, when compared with 2019. A report by the National Crime Record Bureau (NCRB) stated that nearly 35,331 cases of violence against women were registered in 2021.

Crime against women in Indian cities declined by nearly 21 per cent in the pandemic year of 2020, when compared with 2019. A report by the National Crime Record Bureau (NCRB) stated that nearly 35,331 cases of violence against women were registered in 2021. In 2019, however, 44,783 cases of women assault were registered by the authorities. Also read | Prince Andrew served with legal papers over accusations of sexual assault The report also stated that majority of the cases (30.2 per cent) were registered under 'Cruelty by Husband or his Relatives', 19.7 per cent of cases were 'Assault on Women with Intent to Outrage her Modesty'. In addition to it, 19 per cent cases were of 'Kidnapping and Abduction of Women' and 7.2 per cent were cases of rape. National capital Delhi saw a significant decline of 24.18 per cent cases last year, in comparison to 2019. In 2020, 9,782 cases were reported whereas 2019 saw 12,902 registered cases of violence against women. Similarly, Mumbai recorded a decline from 6,519 cases in 2019 to 4,583 cases in 2020. Bengaluru cases declined from 3,486 to 2,730 and Hyderabad’s cases decreased a tad from 2,755 in 2019 to 2,390 in 2020. Also read | Indian-origin Canadian MP Raj Saini denies sexual misconduct allegations While major metro cities recorded a decline, Kolkata and Lucknow saw an increase of 35 and 8 per cent respectively in 2020. Cases in Kolkata increased from 1,474 to 2,001 last year and Lucknow cases reached 2.636 instead of 2,425 from 2019. While the decrease in cases has come as a piece of good news, many also believe that it may be simply a result of repetitive and extended lockdowns imposed in India due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

Crime against women in Indian cities decreased by 21% in 2020: NCRB

The administration of Jammu and Kashmir has converted an 18th-century building, earlier used as the civil secretariat, into the first Art and Cultural centre in Srinagar.

India: Kashmir gets an art gallery

According to reports, a 50-year Afghan man of Indian origin has reportedly been abducted at gunpoint in Kabul on Tuesday night.

The man named Bansuri Lal Allende was reportedly abducted by five men in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/female-students-forced-to-attend-pro-taliban-gatherings-in-head-to-toe-black-robes-at-kabul-university-413034">Kabul's</a> Karte Parwan area.

Akali Dal national spokesman Manjinder Singh Sirsa in a tweet said he had spoken to representatives of Hindu Sikh families in Kabul who he said are&nbsp;worried about their safety.

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Apprising <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MEAIndia</a> - 50-yr old Bansuri Lal Allende was abducted by 5 people at gun point in Karte Parwan area in Kabul where he has a medicine godown 
I had a phone call with representative of Hindu Sikh families in Kabul who told me minorities are worried abt their life &amp; safety <a href="https://t.co/f9MTdIsmqg">pic.twitter.com/f9MTdIsmqg</a>
— Manjinder Singh Sirsa (@mssirsa) <a href="https://twitter.com/mssirsa/status/1438015895092162562?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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India had evacuated hundreds of citizens under "Operation Devi Shakti" in Afghanistan after the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-girl-is-with-the-taliban-but-watch-reaction-when-asked-if-she-wants-them-in-her-country-413190">Taliban </a>entered the Afghan capital on August 15. 
&nbsp; 
External affairs minister S Jaishankar had informed Indians had arrived in the country via Dushanbe as the government flew special flights to pull its nationals&nbsp;out of the country.

India had brought back nearly 400 civilians including two Afghan lawmakers as the government pressed IAF's C-17 aircraft into service.

Watch:

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Special Air India flights were also flown from Dushanbe, Tajikistan which reportedly brought back 87 Indians including nationals from Nepal.

Indian nationals were also flown out to Doha during the US pullout and were flown back into the country in a special flight.

The Indian envoy to Kabul and the diplomatic staff had made it out of Kabul in IAF's C-17 transport aircraft last month.

(With inputs from Agencies) 
&nbsp;

According to reports, a 50-year Afghan man of Indian origin has reportedly been abducted at gunpoint in Kabul on Tuesday night. The man named Bansuri Lal Allende was reportedly abducted by five men in Kabul's Karte Parwan area.

According to reports, a 50-year Afghan man of Indian origin has reportedly been abducted at gunpoint in Kabul on Tuesday night. The man named Bansuri Lal Allende was reportedly abducted by five men in Kabul's Karte Parwan area. Akali Dal national spokesman Manjinder Singh Sirsa in a tweet said he had spoken to representatives of Hindu Sikh families in Kabul who he said are worried about their safety. Apprising @MEAIndia - 50-yr old Bansuri Lal Allende was abducted by 5 people at gun point in Karte Parwan area in Kabul where he has a medicine godown I had a phone call with representative of Hindu Sikh families in Kabul who told me minorities are worried abt their life & safety pic.twitter.com/f9MTdIsmqg — Manjinder Singh Sirsa (@mssirsa) September 15, 2021 × India had evacuated hundreds of citizens under "Operation Devi Shakti" in Afghanistan after the Taliban entered the Afghan capital on August 15. External affairs minister S Jaishankar had informed Indians had arrived in the country via Dushanbe as the government flew special flights to pull its nationals out of the country. India had brought back nearly 400 civilians including two Afghan lawmakers as the government pressed IAF's C-17 aircraft into service. Watch: Special Air India flights were also flown from Dushanbe, Tajikistan which reportedly brought back 87 Indians including nationals from Nepal. Indian nationals were also flown out to Doha during the US pullout and were flown back into the country in a special flight. The Indian envoy to Kabul and the diplomatic staff had made it out of Kabul in IAF's C-17 transport aircraft last month. (With inputs from Agencies)

Afghan man of Indian origin abducted in Kabul: Report

On September 10, the Indian navy carried out a maritime partnership exercise with the Sudanese navy in the Red Sea. Despite building a strong energy partnership in the 2000s, it was the first time that Indian and Sudanese navies conducted such an exercise. From the Indian side, INS Tabar participated in the exercise along with the Sudanese ships Almazz and Nimar.

IN PICS|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/simbex-india-singapore-naval-drill-in-south-china-sea-410815" hreflang="en">SIMBEX: India-Singapore naval drill in South China Sea</a> 
 
The exercise included `multiple activities covering a wide range of naval operations such as `co-ordinated manoeuvring, replenishment at sea [RAS] drills, helo operations, operations for interdicting suspect vessels at sea and communication procedures.` The exercise `enhanced interoperability between the two navies significantly and widened the scope for combined operations against common maritime threats in future.` 
 
INS Tabar is on an overseas deployment to Europe and Africa. Apart from Sudan, it has also conducted naval exercises with the Egyptian navy in the Mediterranean. Egypt and Sudan are important players in the geopolitics of the Red Sea and due to their proximity with the Suez Canal, are located along one of the most important maritime routes. Therefore, both of these exercises are of significant strategic import and point towards the expanding maritime horizons of the Indian navy. 
 
Red Sea Geopolitics 
 
The Red Sea links West Asia with Africa and is a critical geopolitical space where the rivalries between the Gulf powers are being played out. The Red Sea also links the Indian Ocean to the Mediterranean through the strait of Bab-el-Mandeb and Suez Canal. Large quantities of oil and trade pass through the Red Sea. It is a critical waterway for global energy security and the international economy. The recent blockage of the Suez Canal underscored the strategically important role of the Red Sea and Suez Canal for the global economy. 
 
In the last few years, the Red Sea has emerged as a critical sub-theatre in the evolving geopolitics of the Western Indian Ocean (WIO). Foreign powers have established their military presence in the region and are taking a greater interest in the affairs of the maritime as well as continental space in and around the Red Sea. Russia, China, the United States (US), France, and Japan hold military facilities in the region. Even the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Saudi Arabia are active in shaping the trajectory of regional geopolitics and security. 
 
In fact, the presence of security threats such as terrorism and maritime piracy brought foreign powers to the region. US established its expansive network of bases in the WIO and Africa including at Djibouti after launching the Global War on Terror. Maritime piracy in the Gulf of Aden around 2007-08 was threatening global shipping and Somalia was unable to contain pirates operating out of its territorial waters. Therefore, a multinational maritime security effort was launched. The navies of major powers including Russia, China, Japan, and South Korea sent their warships to the region to participate in the anti-piracy operations. 
 
Indian Naval Presence 
 
The Indian navy too played a key role in the counter-piracy operations. India is a resident naval power with a willingness and desire to contribute towards the maintenance of regional security in the Indian Ocean including in the sub-theater of the Northwest Indian Ocean. Over the years, India has managed to regularize its maritime presence in the Gulf of Aden and Southwest Indian Ocean. Time and again, India has extended much-needed humanitarian assistance to the littoral states in the region. India has also positioned itself as the `preferred security partner` in the region. 
 
Indian navy is uniquely placed in the regional geopolitics of the Northwest Indian Ocean. It enjoys close relationship with the US, Japan, and France, and consequently, the Indian navy ships can access their naval bases in Djibouti. Russia`s upcoming naval base at Port Sudan also opens up opportunities for greater collaboration between Indian and Russian navies in the Red Sea and WIO. 
 
India`s deepening strategic partnership with UAE could be strengthened further in the domain of maritime security in the context of the geopolitics of the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. India and Taiwan share an interest in containing Chinese power. The Taiwanese presence in Somaliland and UAE`s facilities along the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden including Berbera could be leveraged for keeping a close watch on the Chinese activities in the region. 
 
The entire region lying between the Suez Canal and Japan is seeing an expanding Indian maritime footprint. The growing interest in the region is demonstrated by regularly deploying warships for conducting naval exercises with friendly countries and for carrying out defence diplomacy. As a result, the Indian navy is indicating that Western Pacific and the Red Sea are emerging as integral parts of its strategic dynamics. The naval exercises with Egyptian and Sudanese navies demonstrate the expanding strategic maritime horizons and underscore the growing salience of the Red Sea in India`s security matrix.

On September 10, the Indian navy carried out a maritime partnership exercise with the Sudanese navy in the Red Sea. Despite building a strong energy partnership in the 2000s, it was the first time that Indian and Sudanese navies conducted such an exercise.

On September 10, the Indian navy carried out a maritime partnership exercise with the Sudanese navy in the Red Sea. Despite building a strong energy partnership in the 2000s, it was the first time that Indian and Sudanese navies conducted such an exercise. From the Indian side, INS Tabar participated in the exercise along with the Sudanese ships Almazz and Nimar. IN PICS| SIMBEX: India-Singapore naval drill in South China Sea The exercise included `multiple activities covering a wide range of naval operations such as `co-ordinated manoeuvring, replenishment at sea [RAS] drills, helo operations, operations for interdicting suspect vessels at sea and communication procedures.` The exercise `enhanced interoperability between the two navies significantly and widened the scope for combined operations against common maritime threats in future.` INS Tabar is on an overseas deployment to Europe and Africa. Apart from Sudan, it has also conducted naval exercises with the Egyptian navy in the Mediterranean. Egypt and Sudan are important players in the geopolitics of the Red Sea and due to their proximity with the Suez Canal, are located along one of the most important maritime routes. Therefore, both of these exercises are of significant strategic import and point towards the expanding maritime horizons of the Indian navy. Red Sea Geopolitics The Red Sea links West Asia with Africa and is a critical geopolitical space where the rivalries between the Gulf powers are being played out. The Red Sea also links the Indian Ocean to the Mediterranean through the strait of Bab-el-Mandeb and Suez Canal. Large quantities of oil and trade pass through the Red Sea. It is a critical waterway for global energy security and the international economy. The recent blockage of the Suez Canal underscored the strategically important role of the Red Sea and Suez Canal for the global economy. In the last few years, the Red Sea has emerged as a critical sub-theatre in the evolving geopolitics of the Western Indian Ocean (WIO). Foreign powers have established their military presence in the region and are taking a greater interest in the affairs of the maritime as well as continental space in and around the Red Sea. Russia, China, the United States (US), France, and Japan hold military facilities in the region. Even the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Saudi Arabia are active in shaping the trajectory of regional geopolitics and security. In fact, the presence of security threats such as terrorism and maritime piracy brought foreign powers to the region. US established its expansive network of bases in the WIO and Africa including at Djibouti after launching the Global War on Terror. Maritime piracy in the Gulf of Aden around 2007-08 was threatening global shipping and Somalia was unable to contain pirates operating out of its territorial waters. Therefore, a multinational maritime security effort was launched. The navies of major powers including Russia, China, Japan, and South Korea sent their warships to the region to participate in the anti-piracy operations. Indian Naval Presence The Indian navy too played a key role in the counter-piracy operations. India is a resident naval power with a willingness and desire to contribute towards the maintenance of regional security in the Indian Ocean including in the sub-theater of the Northwest Indian Ocean. Over the years, India has managed to regularize its maritime presence in the Gulf of Aden and Southwest Indian Ocean. Time and again, India has extended much-needed humanitarian assistance to the littoral states in the region. India has also positioned itself as the `preferred security partner` in the region. Indian navy is uniquely placed in the regional geopolitics of the Northwest Indian Ocean. It enjoys close relationship with the US, Japan, and France, and consequently, the Indian navy ships can access their naval bases in Djibouti. Russia`s upcoming naval base at Port Sudan also opens up opportunities for greater collaboration between Indian and Russian navies in the Red Sea and WIO. India`s deepening strategic partnership with UAE could be strengthened further in the domain of maritime security in the context of the geopolitics of the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. India and Taiwan share an interest in containing Chinese power. The Taiwanese presence in Somaliland and UAE`s facilities along the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden including Berbera could be leveraged for keeping a close watch on the Chinese activities in the region. The entire region lying between the Suez Canal and Japan is seeing an expanding Indian maritime footprint. The growing interest in the region is demonstrated by regularly deploying warships for conducting naval exercises with friendly countries and for carrying out defence diplomacy. As a result, the Indian navy is indicating that Western Pacific and the Red Sea are emerging as integral parts of its strategic dynamics. The naval exercises with Egyptian and Sudanese navies demonstrate the expanding strategic maritime horizons and underscore the growing salience of the Red Sea in India`s security matrix.

Indian Navy holds exercises in the Red Sea, not far from the Suez Canal

&nbsp;India will be holding its first-ever Global Buddhist Conference in November, which is likely to become an annual feature.

The event is being planned by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) from November 19 to 20 at Nava Nalanda Mahavihara campus in India’s northern Bihar’s state of Nalanda.

The conference will be organised under the overall framework of the flagship event of the Ministry of Tourism. Eminent scholars from prominent Buddhist institutions in India and abroad will participate in the event.&nbsp;

Making the announcement, Vinay Sahasrabuddhe, president of the ICCR, said, “Buddhism is an essential ingredient of the idea of India. Therefore, the predominance of India in the idea of Buddhism and predominance of Buddhism in the idea of India is being underscored in an academic manner.”

In the run-up to the event, four regional conferences will be organised in Indian states—Telangana, Saranath in northern Uttar Pradesh (UP), Sikkim’s Gangtok and Dharamshala in Dehradun, and abroad—Japan, South Korea, Thailand, Cambodia.

Dinesh K Patnaik, director-general, ICCR, explained, “This is an academic conference. The whole idea is how to make India the centre of Buddhism. It is not about tourism, but about making it the centre of Buddhist activities, like academic, cultural, seminars. We are also going to have a depository of the manuscript.”

The ICCR has also announced an award for the promotion of Buddhist studies which will be given on November 21 in Delhi by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The award carries a cash reward of $20,000. a plaque and a gold-plated medallion. The award is part of a comprehensive action plan for activities related to Buddhism. India has been presenting awards for the promotion of Sanskrit and Indology.

Buddhism’s India link is a well-known and much-celebrated one. Buddha, the founder of the religion, who has millions of followers across the globe, obtained his enlightenment in Bodh Gaya, Bihar, gave his first sermon in Sarnath, and died in Kushinagar, UP.

India has been the home to the highest aces of learning of Buddhist studies including Nalanda, Vikramshila universities, and the country gets many pilgrims across the globe every year.

India will be holding its first-ever Global Buddhist Conference in November, which is likely to become an annual feature. The event is being planned by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) from November 19 to 20 at Nava Nalanda Mahavihara campus in India’s northern Bihar’s state of Nalanda.

India will be holding its first-ever Global Buddhist Conference in November, which is likely to become an annual feature. The event is being planned by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) from November 19 to 20 at Nava Nalanda Mahavihara campus in India’s northern Bihar’s state of Nalanda. The conference will be organised under the overall framework of the flagship event of the Ministry of Tourism. Eminent scholars from prominent Buddhist institutions in India and abroad will participate in the event. Making the announcement, Vinay Sahasrabuddhe, president of the ICCR, said, “Buddhism is an essential ingredient of the idea of India. Therefore, the predominance of India in the idea of Buddhism and predominance of Buddhism in the idea of India is being underscored in an academic manner.” In the run-up to the event, four regional conferences will be organised in Indian states—Telangana, Saranath in northern Uttar Pradesh (UP), Sikkim’s Gangtok and Dharamshala in Dehradun, and abroad—Japan, South Korea, Thailand, Cambodia. Dinesh K Patnaik, director-general, ICCR, explained, “This is an academic conference. The whole idea is how to make India the centre of Buddhism. It is not about tourism, but about making it the centre of Buddhist activities, like academic, cultural, seminars. We are also going to have a depository of the manuscript.” The ICCR has also announced an award for the promotion of Buddhist studies which will be given on November 21 in Delhi by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The award carries a cash reward of $20,000. a plaque and a gold-plated medallion. The award is part of a comprehensive action plan for activities related to Buddhism. India has been presenting awards for the promotion of Sanskrit and Indology. Buddhism’s India link is a well-known and much-celebrated one. Buddha, the founder of the religion, who has millions of followers across the globe, obtained his enlightenment in Bodh Gaya, Bihar, gave his first sermon in Sarnath, and died in Kushinagar, UP. India has been the home to the highest aces of learning of Buddhist studies including Nalanda, Vikramshila universities, and the country gets many pilgrims across the globe every year.

India to hold Global Buddhist Conference in November; PM to give award on Buddhist studies

 Washington [US], September 14 (ANI): After winning big at MTV VMAs, singer Billie Eilish has now made heads turn with her magical look at the Met Gala 2021.The Grammy-award winning artist chose to keep it all peach for this year`s Met Gala as she walked on the red carpet in a custom tulle corset gown by Oscar de la Renta.Sharing Billie`s pictures from the fashion event, the social media team of Oscar de La Renta took to their Instagram page to describe the details of the singer`s outfit."This red carpet confection features an Old Hollywood-inspired bodice and cascades into a blush ombre skirt and train. #metgala #odlrredcarpet," the post read.Billie`s corseted gown reportedly had a gargantuan skirt with a 15-foot train.Speaking about her hair, she styled in Marilyn Monroe-esque bob.Apart from her look, Billie is also making history for being the youngest co-chair in the gala`s history. (ANI) 

Washington [US], September 14 (ANI): After winning big at MTV VMAs, singer Billie Eilish has now made heads turn with her magical look at the Met Gala 2021.The Grammy-award winning artist chose to keep it all peach for this year`s Met Gala as she walked on the red carpet in a custom tulle corset gown by Oscar de la Renta.

Washington [US], September 14 (ANI): After winning big at MTV VMAs, singer Billie Eilish has now made heads turn with her magical look at the Met Gala 2021.The Grammy-award winning artist chose to keep it all peach for this year`s Met Gala as she walked on the red carpet in a custom tulle corset gown by Oscar de la Renta.Sharing Billie`s pictures from the fashion event, the social media team of Oscar de La Renta took to their Instagram page to describe the details of the singer`s outfit."This red carpet confection features an Old Hollywood-inspired bodice and cascades into a blush ombre skirt and train. #metgala #odlrredcarpet," the post read.Billie`s corseted gown reportedly had a gargantuan skirt with a 15-foot train.Speaking about her hair, she styled in Marilyn Monroe-esque bob.Apart from her look, Billie is also making history for being the youngest co-chair in the gala`s history. (ANI)

Billie Eilish goes all peach for her Met Gala 2021 look

A study of 614 fully vaccinated health workers in India found a "significant" drop in their COVID-fighting antibodies within four months of the first shot.

The findings could help the Indian government decide whether to provide booster doses as some Western countries have done.

Waning antibodies do not necessarily mean that immunised people lose their ability to counter the disease, as the body`s memory cells may still kick in to offer substantial protection, said the director of a state-run institute that did the study.

"After six months, we should be able to tell you more clearly whether and when a booster would be needed," Sanghamitra Pati of the Regional Medical Research Centre, based in the eastern city of Bhubaneswar, told Reuters on Tuesday.

"And we would urge similar studies in different areas for pan-India data."

British researchers said last month that protection offered by two doses of the Pfizer/BioNTech and the AstraZeneca vaccines begins to fade within six months.

The Indian study, published in the Research Square pre-print platform but yet to be peer-reviewed, is one of the first such done in the country involving its main two vaccines - Covishield, a licensed version of the AstraZeneca shot, and domestically developed Covaxin.

Health officials say though they are studying the evolving science on booster doses, the priority is to fully immunise India`s 944 million adults. More than 60% of them have received at least one dose and 19% the required two doses.

COVID cases and deaths in India have come down sharply since a peak of more than 400,000 infections in early May. India has reported 33.29 million cases in total and 443,213 deaths. 
&nbsp;

A study of 614 fully vaccinated health workers in India found a "significant" drop in their COVID-fighting antibodies within four months of the first shot. The findings could help the Indian government decide whether to provide booster doses as some Western countries have done.

A study of 614 fully vaccinated health workers in India found a "significant" drop in their COVID-fighting antibodies within four months of the first shot. The findings could help the Indian government decide whether to provide booster doses as some Western countries have done. Waning antibodies do not necessarily mean that immunised people lose their ability to counter the disease, as the body`s memory cells may still kick in to offer substantial protection, said the director of a state-run institute that did the study. "After six months, we should be able to tell you more clearly whether and when a booster would be needed," Sanghamitra Pati of the Regional Medical Research Centre, based in the eastern city of Bhubaneswar, told Reuters on Tuesday. "And we would urge similar studies in different areas for pan-India data." British researchers said last month that protection offered by two doses of the Pfizer/BioNTech and the AstraZeneca vaccines begins to fade within six months. The Indian study, published in the Research Square pre-print platform but yet to be peer-reviewed, is one of the first such done in the country involving its main two vaccines - Covishield, a licensed version of the AstraZeneca shot, and domestically developed Covaxin. Health officials say though they are studying the evolving science on booster doses, the priority is to fully immunise India`s 944 million adults. More than 60% of them have received at least one dose and 19% the required two doses. COVID cases and deaths in India have come down sharply since a peak of more than 400,000 infections in early May. India has reported 33.29 million cases in total and 443,213 deaths.

Indian study finds a big drop in COVID-19 antibodies within four months of vaccination

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