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A video showing a large flock of white-rumped vultures feasting on the carcass of a spotted deer&nbsp;at a restricted location in&nbsp;the Mudumalai Tiger Reserve has enthused wildlife enthusiasts and conservators alike.

According to forest officials, the&nbsp;sighting of a large flock of critically endangered vultures(scavengers) indicates not only the increasing vulture population&nbsp;but is also a sign of a significant Tiger (predator) population, both of which are said to be the result&nbsp;of successful conservation efforts.

Officials suspect that the deer kill was by a tiger in the region. They believe that&nbsp;had the deer been hunted by a leopard it would have&nbsp;taken the carcass atop a tree branch. Tree branches are unreachable spots for wide-winged vultures&nbsp;that often perch only on treetops.

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Video from restricted area of <a href="https://twitter.com/MudumalaiTR?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MudumalaiTR</a> : 
 
Flock of rare,critically endangered white-rumped vultures feasting on a deer carcass... Officials say it's a positive sign that indicates healthy vulture (scavenger)population and carnivore activity <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/wildlife?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#wildlife</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TamilNadu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TamilNadu</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a> <a href="https://t.co/iS5eK3CxOL">pic.twitter.com/iS5eK3CxOL</a>
— Sidharth M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1434802906645995520?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 6, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Likewise, in the case of a pack of wild dogs or dholes hunting an animal, only the bones would remain. However, the carcass being left behind for the vultures to feed&nbsp;indicates the hunting style of the tigers&nbsp;that often involves leaving the kill behind.&nbsp;

As per the latest 2019-20 census for the Mudumalai Tiger Reserve,&nbsp;there are seven&nbsp;long-billed vultures, two&nbsp;Egyptian vultures and 125 white-rumped vultures.

The abundant availability of feed for scavengers such as vultures&nbsp;is said to be an ample indicator of a healthy predator(carnivore) population and an overall conducive ecosystem.

In the 1980s, the white-jumped vulture was abundantly spotted across South and South East&nbsp;Asia&nbsp;when their global population was in millions. However, their numbers fell sharply and recent estimates point out that there are just a little over 10,000 such mature birds around the world.

According to reports, a major reason for the vulture population in the South Asia region has been the widespread use of the drug ‘Diclofenac’&nbsp;for the treatment of common ailments, pain, wounds in cattle and swine.

Vultures that feed on carcasses that contain traces of the drug&nbsp;die of kidney failure as their blood crystallises around the organs. Despite the ban on the drug in the country since 2006, it is reportedly in use across parts of India. In certain cases, the carcasses that are purposefully laced with poison to kill tigers&nbsp;end up claiming the lives of vultures as well.

The non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) Diclofenac is not alone in indirectly claiming vulture lives,&nbsp;other unsafe drugs like Aceclofenac, Ketoprofen and Nimesulide also are regarded as dangerous and&nbsp;toxic for vultures.&nbsp;

A video showing a large flock of white-rumped vultures feasting on the carcass of a spotted deer at a restricted location in the Mudumalai Tiger Reserve has enthused wildlife enthusiasts and conservators alike.

A video showing a large flock of white-rumped vultures feasting on the carcass of a spotted deer at a restricted location in the Mudumalai Tiger Reserve has enthused wildlife enthusiasts and conservators alike. According to forest officials, the sighting of a large flock of critically endangered vultures(scavengers) indicates not only the increasing vulture population but is also a sign of a significant Tiger (predator) population, both of which are said to be the result of successful conservation efforts. Officials suspect that the deer kill was by a tiger in the region. They believe that had the deer been hunted by a leopard it would have taken the carcass atop a tree branch. Tree branches are unreachable spots for wide-winged vultures that often perch only on treetops. Video from restricted area of @MudumalaiTR : Flock of rare,critically endangered white-rumped vultures feasting on a deer carcass... Officials say it's a positive sign that indicates healthy vulture (scavenger)population and carnivore activity #wildlife #TamilNadu #India pic.twitter.com/iS5eK3CxOL — Sidharth M.P (@sdhrthmp) September 6, 2021 × Likewise, in the case of a pack of wild dogs or dholes hunting an animal, only the bones would remain. However, the carcass being left behind for the vultures to feed indicates the hunting style of the tigers that often involves leaving the kill behind. As per the latest 2019-20 census for the Mudumalai Tiger Reserve, there are seven long-billed vultures, two Egyptian vultures and 125 white-rumped vultures. The abundant availability of feed for scavengers such as vultures is said to be an ample indicator of a healthy predator(carnivore) population and an overall conducive ecosystem. In the 1980s, the white-jumped vulture was abundantly spotted across South and South East Asia when their global population was in millions. However, their numbers fell sharply and recent estimates point out that there are just a little over 10,000 such mature birds around the world. According to reports, a major reason for the vulture population in the South Asia region has been the widespread use of the drug ‘Diclofenac’ for the treatment of common ailments, pain, wounds in cattle and swine. Vultures that feed on carcasses that contain traces of the drug die of kidney failure as their blood crystallises around the organs. Despite the ban on the drug in the country since 2006, it is reportedly in use across parts of India. In certain cases, the carcasses that are purposefully laced with poison to kill tigers end up claiming the lives of vultures as well. The non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) Diclofenac is not alone in indirectly claiming vulture lives, other unsafe drugs like Aceclofenac, Ketoprofen and Nimesulide also are regarded as dangerous and toxic for vultures.

Flock of critically endangered vultures feed on deer carcass at Mudumalai Tiger Reserve

Paying tribute&nbsp;to former Indian president S Radhakrishnan on his birth anniversary, which is celebrated as Teacher's Day,&nbsp;Indian&nbsp;Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in a tweet, "I pay my respects to Dr&nbsp;S&nbsp;Radhakrishnan on his Jayanti and recall his distinguished scholarship as well as contributions to our nation."

In an attempt to acknowledge the hard labour undertaken by teachers in providing quality education,&nbsp;the Indian&nbsp;Prime Minister&nbsp;on Sunday hailed the&nbsp;entire teaching fraternity&nbsp;on Teachers' Day.

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On Teachers' Day, greetings to the entire teaching fraternity, which has always played a pivotal role in nurturing young minds. It is commendable how teachers have innovated and ensured the education journey of students continues in the COVID-19 times.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1434339125985902601?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 5, 2021</a></blockquote>
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In another tweet on the social microblogging site,&nbsp;the PM said, "On Teachers' Day, greetings to the entire teaching fraternity, which has always played a pivotal role in nurturing young minds."

The COVID-19 pandemic has completely changed the whole scenario in the education system of the country. The classes are now conducted online through various applications.&nbsp;Several other processes have also changed.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;India's Foreign Secretary visits Washington to discuss bilateral ties, Afghan crisis

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Teachers have made concerted efforts in adapting to the unprecedented change in the recent times. They have also been able to accomplish several never-seen-before tasks.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/india-news/india-records-over-42000-covid-19-cases-in-24-hours-active-cases-increase-410808" hreflang="en">India records over 42,000 COVID-19 cases in 24 hours; active cases increase</a>

Hailing the efforts made by the teachers in these difficult times, Modi tweeted, "It is commendable how teachers have innovated and ensured the education journey of students continues in the COVID-19 times."

Paying tribute to former Indian president S Radhakrishnan on his birth anniversary, which is celebrated as Teacher's Day, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in a tweet, "I pay my respects to Dr S Radhakrishnan on his Jayanti and recall his distinguished scholarship as well as contributions to our nation.

Paying tribute to former Indian president S Radhakrishnan on his birth anniversary, which is celebrated as Teacher's Day, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in a tweet, "I pay my respects to Dr S Radhakrishnan on his Jayanti and recall his distinguished scholarship as well as contributions to our nation." In an attempt to acknowledge the hard labour undertaken by teachers in providing quality education, the Indian Prime Minister on Sunday hailed the entire teaching fraternity on Teachers' Day. On Teachers' Day, greetings to the entire teaching fraternity, which has always played a pivotal role in nurturing young minds. It is commendable how teachers have innovated and ensured the education journey of students continues in the COVID-19 times. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 5, 2021 × In another tweet on the social microblogging site, the PM said, "On Teachers' Day, greetings to the entire teaching fraternity, which has always played a pivotal role in nurturing young minds." The COVID-19 pandemic has completely changed the whole scenario in the education system of the country. The classes are now conducted online through various applications. Several other processes have also changed. Watch: India's Foreign Secretary visits Washington to discuss bilateral ties, Afghan crisis × Teachers have made concerted efforts in adapting to the unprecedented change in the recent times. They have also been able to accomplish several never-seen-before tasks. Also Read: India records over 42,000 COVID-19 cases in 24 hours; active cases increase Hailing the efforts made by the teachers in these difficult times, Modi tweeted, "It is commendable how teachers have innovated and ensured the education journey of students continues in the COVID-19 times."

Indian PM pays respects to Dr S Radhakrishnan, hails teaching fraternity's efforts in COVID-19 times

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With 42,766 people testing positive for the novel <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-india-reports-45352-new-cases-366-fresh-fatalities-410413">coronavirus </a>infection in a day, India's infection tally rose to 3,29,88,673, while active cases registered an increase for the fifth consecutive day, the Union health ministry said on Sunday.

The COVID-19 death toll has climbed to 4,40,533, with 308 new fatalities, according to the ministry data updated at 8 am on Sunday.

The active cases have increased to 4,10,048, comprising 1.24 per cent of the total infections, while the national COVID-19 recovery rate was recorded at 97.42 per cent, the health ministry said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/12-year-old-boy-dies-due-nipah-virus-in-kerala-all-you-want-to-know-about-niv-410800">Also Read:&nbsp;12-year-old boy dies due Nipah virus in Kerala; all you want to know about NiV</a>

An increase of 4,367 cases has been recorded in the active COVID-19 caseload in a span of 24 hours. Less than 50,000 daily new cases are being reported for 70 consecutive days, the ministry said.

It said 17,47,476 tests were conducted on Saturday, taking the total cumulative tests conducted so far for detection of the infection in the country to 53,00,58,218. The daily positivity rate was recorded at 2.45 per cent.

Weekly positivity rate was recorded at 2.62 per cent. It has been below 3 per cent for the last 72 days, according to the ministry.

The number of people who have recuperated from the disease surged to 3,21,38,092 in the country, while the case fatality rate stands at 1.34 per cent, the data stated.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-for-early-outcome-of-trips-waiver-for-covid-vax-diagnotics-410701">Also Read:&nbsp;India for early outcome of TRIPS waiver for COVID vax, diagnotics</a>

The cumulative COVID-19 vaccine doses administered in the country so far under the nationwide vaccination drive has exceeded 68.46 crore, it said.

India's COVID-19 tally had crossed the 20 lakh-mark on August 7, 2020, 30 lakh on August 23, 40 lakh on September 5 and 50 lakh on September 16. It went past 60 lakh on September 28, 70 lakh on October 11, 80 lakh on October 29, 90 lakh on November 20 and surpassed the one crore-mark on December 19.

The country crossed the grim milestone of two crore on May 4 this year and three crore on June 23. The 308 new fatalities include 142 deaths from Kerala, and 64 from Maharashtra.

A total of 4,40,533 deaths have been reported so far in the country, including 1,37,707 from Maharashtra, 37,401 from Karnataka, 35,000 from Tamil Nadu, 25,082 from Delhi, 22,854 from Uttar Pradesh, 21,422 from Kerala and 18,491 from West Bengal.

The health ministry stressed that more than 70 per cent of the deaths occurred due to comorbidities.

"Our figures are being reconciled with the Indian Council of Medical Research," the ministry said on its website, adding that state-wise distribution of figures is subject to further verification and reconciliation.

With 42,766 people testing positive for the novel coronavirus infection in a day, India's infection tally rose to 3,29,88,673, while active cases registered an increase for the fifth consecutive day, the Union health ministry said on Sunday.

With 42,766 people testing positive for the novel coronavirus infection in a day, India's infection tally rose to 3,29,88,673, while active cases registered an increase for the fifth consecutive day, the Union health ministry said on Sunday. The COVID-19 death toll has climbed to 4,40,533, with 308 new fatalities, according to the ministry data updated at 8 am on Sunday. The active cases have increased to 4,10,048, comprising 1.24 per cent of the total infections, while the national COVID-19 recovery rate was recorded at 97.42 per cent, the health ministry said. Also Read: 12-year-old boy dies due Nipah virus in Kerala; all you want to know about NiV An increase of 4,367 cases has been recorded in the active COVID-19 caseload in a span of 24 hours. Less than 50,000 daily new cases are being reported for 70 consecutive days, the ministry said. It said 17,47,476 tests were conducted on Saturday, taking the total cumulative tests conducted so far for detection of the infection in the country to 53,00,58,218. The daily positivity rate was recorded at 2.45 per cent. Weekly positivity rate was recorded at 2.62 per cent. It has been below 3 per cent for the last 72 days, according to the ministry. The number of people who have recuperated from the disease surged to 3,21,38,092 in the country, while the case fatality rate stands at 1.34 per cent, the data stated. Also Read: India for early outcome of TRIPS waiver for COVID vax, diagnotics The cumulative COVID-19 vaccine doses administered in the country so far under the nationwide vaccination drive has exceeded 68.46 crore, it said. India's COVID-19 tally had crossed the 20 lakh-mark on August 7, 2020, 30 lakh on August 23, 40 lakh on September 5 and 50 lakh on September 16. It went past 60 lakh on September 28, 70 lakh on October 11, 80 lakh on October 29, 90 lakh on November 20 and surpassed the one crore-mark on December 19. The country crossed the grim milestone of two crore on May 4 this year and three crore on June 23. The 308 new fatalities include 142 deaths from Kerala, and 64 from Maharashtra. A total of 4,40,533 deaths have been reported so far in the country, including 1,37,707 from Maharashtra, 37,401 from Karnataka, 35,000 from Tamil Nadu, 25,082 from Delhi, 22,854 from Uttar Pradesh, 21,422 from Kerala and 18,491 from West Bengal. The health ministry stressed that more than 70 per cent of the deaths occurred due to comorbidities. "Our figures are being reconciled with the Indian Council of Medical Research," the ministry said on its website, adding that state-wise distribution of figures is subject to further verification and reconciliation.

India records over 42,000 COVID-19 cases in 24 hours; active cases increase

A case of Nipah virus was detected in Kozhikode district of Kerala as a team of National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) was&nbsp;sent to the area on Sunday.

Reports said a 12-year-old boy died due to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/a-team-of-scientists-arrives-in-kerala-to-find-source-of-nipah-virus-outbreak-226858">Nipah</a> virus as Kerala initiated contact tracing.&nbsp;The virus hit Kozhikode amid the coronavirus wave in the state.

Kozhikode district in South India had earlier reported the first case of the virus in May 2018.

According to the World Health Organization(WHO), Nipah(NiV) virus is&nbsp;transmitted from&nbsp;animals to humans. The carriers&nbsp;include&nbsp;bats or pigs including&nbsp;contaminated foods. It can also be transmitted by human-to-human contact.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/researchers-discover-nipah-virus-antibodies-in-bats-from-maharashtras-mahabaleshwar-cave-393443">Also Read:&nbsp;Researchers discover Nipah virus antibodies in bats from Maharashtra's Mahabaleshwar cave</a>

The WHO says fruit bats are the natural Nipah hosts. The disease results in asymptomatic infection,&nbsp;also acute respiratory infection and fatal encephalitis.&nbsp;

The zoonotic virus which is transmitted from animals to humans is also said to infect a large number of animals. The virus was first identified among pigs in Malaysia in 1999, then in Bangladesh in 2001 and has also emerged in eastern India.

WHO has also identified "at-risk" countries including Ghana, &nbsp;Indonesia, Philippines, Thailand and Cambodia due to the prevalence of Pteropus bat species which causes the virus.

In Malaysia, the virus was caused due to direct contact with pigs and their contaminated tissues. The transmission occurred due to unprotected contact with the tissue, the WHO said. Singapore had also detected cases of the virus

However, in Bangladesh and India, the outbreak was likely to have taken place due to the consumption of fruit products from contaminated urine or saliva from infected fruit bats.

The symptoms of the disease include fever, headaches, muscle pain, vomiting and sore throat. A person also suffers from acute encephalitis and dizziness. The WHO says some people suffer from pneumonia and respiratory problems.

According to the WHO currently there are no approved vaccines for the virus. Intensive supportive care allows a person to recover from the virus.

Moderna which had earlier successfully launched the vaccine against coronavirus had announced earlier this year that the company is working towards establishing a vaccine against NiV based on based mRNA technology.

(With inputs from Agencies)

A case of Nipah virus was detected in Kozhikode district of Kerala as a team of National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) was sent to the area on Sunday. Reports said a 12-year-old boy died due to the Nipah virus as Kerala initiated contact tracing.

A case of Nipah virus was detected in Kozhikode district of Kerala as a team of National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) was sent to the area on Sunday. Reports said a 12-year-old boy died due to the Nipah virus as Kerala initiated contact tracing. The virus hit Kozhikode amid the coronavirus wave in the state. Kozhikode district in South India had earlier reported the first case of the virus in May 2018. According to the World Health Organization(WHO), Nipah(NiV) virus is transmitted from animals to humans. The carriers include bats or pigs including contaminated foods. It can also be transmitted by human-to-human contact. Also Read: Researchers discover Nipah virus antibodies in bats from Maharashtra's Mahabaleshwar cave The WHO says fruit bats are the natural Nipah hosts. The disease results in asymptomatic infection, also acute respiratory infection and fatal encephalitis. The zoonotic virus which is transmitted from animals to humans is also said to infect a large number of animals. The virus was first identified among pigs in Malaysia in 1999, then in Bangladesh in 2001 and has also emerged in eastern India. WHO has also identified "at-risk" countries including Ghana, Indonesia, Philippines, Thailand and Cambodia due to the prevalence of Pteropus bat species which causes the virus. In Malaysia, the virus was caused due to direct contact with pigs and their contaminated tissues. The transmission occurred due to unprotected contact with the tissue, the WHO said. Singapore had also detected cases of the virus However, in Bangladesh and India, the outbreak was likely to have taken place due to the consumption of fruit products from contaminated urine or saliva from infected fruit bats. The symptoms of the disease include fever, headaches, muscle pain, vomiting and sore throat. A person also suffers from acute encephalitis and dizziness. The WHO says some people suffer from pneumonia and respiratory problems. According to the WHO currently there are no approved vaccines for the virus. Intensive supportive care allows a person to recover from the virus. Moderna which had earlier successfully launched the vaccine against coronavirus had announced earlier this year that the company is working towards establishing a vaccine against NiV based on based mRNA technology. (With inputs from Agencies)

12-year-old boy dies due Nipah virus in Kerala; all you want to know about NiV

As the medical experts rushed to contain the wide spread of the deadly coronavirus, teachers all over the world started thinking of ways by which they could support children.

Since March 2020, schools have lost the multi-seating classrooms where children could sit with their friends, face a blackboard and listen to the teacher. School time now is synonymous to children sitting in their own home in front of a digital screen and listening to their teachers and friends in a virtual classroom.

While several researchers have studied the effect virtual classrooms have had on children, teachers too have lost their normalcy.

When the Indian government announced a nationwide lockdown in the country and asked schools to conduct virtual classes, several teachers "found the very idea ridiculous as it was beyond imagination at that time to even think along those lines. Especially the teachers, who had all their lives taught in a conventional manner, using chalk and duster,"&nbsp;expressed Rinku Pandey, who teaches English to senior classes in Seth Anandram Jaipuria School, Kanpur, India.

Majority of the schools shifted to virtual classrooms through the most-popular app, Zoom. However, it was a slippery slope for teachers who were still trying to learn the new technology and still keep a brave front in front of the equally perplexed students. "For the initial few days, it was like groping in the darkness, trying to figure out the way, taking help from whichever direction it came. However, gradually, in due course of time we adapted ourselves to the new mode, which has now become the new normal for us. So, in our school it was a very rapid, fast paced transition,"&nbsp;Pandey reminisced.

As time passed, teachers and students started getting used to the new normal of teaching. However, one big concern that the teachers pointed out was lack of privacy and security.

Within a few days of the shift to virtual classrooms, the technologically-advanced children started posting videos and audio recordings of their successful pranks played on teachers during virtual classes.

"There was this once class in the second month of online teaching when several students started changing their names to offensive slangs. AT that time, no matter how much I tried to keep a calm face, other students could see the panic on my face, which, as a teacher, I am not very proud of but couldn't help," said Khushboo Jain, who teaches high school children in Uttar Pradesh.

"All of us across the globe have faced such challenges, the nature and frequency of such instances may have varied," Pandey added in agreement. "Initially, when we had just switched to the virtual mode, we were still in the process of learning and getting adept. The security features in the app were still unexplored."

When teachers started reporting such cases, school authorities stepped in "called for a few emergency meetings, briefing the teachers about the security features and finally, pretty soon this issue was resolved,"&nbsp;Pandey claimed.

However, Khushboo Jain says such problems still exist as the technologically-advanced students keep finding new ways of creating trouble.

Not just this, the security of teachers as well as some students have also been jeopardised. "A father of one of my students once called me at 10 pm. I did not have his number saved, so I picked up. He started telling me that his daughter has not been talking to him, which is worrying him. Shockingly, he then led the conversation to my likes and dislikes and started telling me things he likes about me. I had to excuse myself and block the person on WhatsApp," Khushboo Jain recalls. "I reported the incident to school authorities and we were provided with another official number to deal with parents in the school hours. That helped me and other teachers who had suffered the same."

Some teachers have also burnt the pressure of not having fixed working hours anymore. From putting in extra hours in making Powerpoint presentations to spending extra time with students who find it hard to cope up with the new normal, teachers have lost count of the number of extra hours they have been working.

However, like a true guru, these teachers have kept their calm and selflessly dedicated their time to students. "I feel that there are no defined working hours for teachers but I feel that this is the need of the hour. Children need us more than ever, so we need to go beyond the call of duty and be available to them as much as possible," Rinku Pandey said.

As the medical experts rushed to contain the wide spread of the deadly coronavirus, teachers all over the world started thinking of ways by which they could support children.

As the medical experts rushed to contain the wide spread of the deadly coronavirus, teachers all over the world started thinking of ways by which they could support children. Since March 2020, schools have lost the multi-seating classrooms where children could sit with their friends, face a blackboard and listen to the teacher. School time now is synonymous to children sitting in their own home in front of a digital screen and listening to their teachers and friends in a virtual classroom. While several researchers have studied the effect virtual classrooms have had on children, teachers too have lost their normalcy. When the Indian government announced a nationwide lockdown in the country and asked schools to conduct virtual classes, several teachers "found the very idea ridiculous as it was beyond imagination at that time to even think along those lines. Especially the teachers, who had all their lives taught in a conventional manner, using chalk and duster," expressed Rinku Pandey, who teaches English to senior classes in Seth Anandram Jaipuria School, Kanpur, India. Majority of the schools shifted to virtual classrooms through the most-popular app, Zoom. However, it was a slippery slope for teachers who were still trying to learn the new technology and still keep a brave front in front of the equally perplexed students. "For the initial few days, it was like groping in the darkness, trying to figure out the way, taking help from whichever direction it came. However, gradually, in due course of time we adapted ourselves to the new mode, which has now become the new normal for us. So, in our school it was a very rapid, fast paced transition," Pandey reminisced. As time passed, teachers and students started getting used to the new normal of teaching. However, one big concern that the teachers pointed out was lack of privacy and security. Within a few days of the shift to virtual classrooms, the technologically-advanced children started posting videos and audio recordings of their successful pranks played on teachers during virtual classes. "There was this once class in the second month of online teaching when several students started changing their names to offensive slangs. AT that time, no matter how much I tried to keep a calm face, other students could see the panic on my face, which, as a teacher, I am not very proud of but couldn't help," said Khushboo Jain, who teaches high school children in Uttar Pradesh. "All of us across the globe have faced such challenges, the nature and frequency of such instances may have varied," Pandey added in agreement. "Initially, when we had just switched to the virtual mode, we were still in the process of learning and getting adept. The security features in the app were still unexplored." When teachers started reporting such cases, school authorities stepped in "called for a few emergency meetings, briefing the teachers about the security features and finally, pretty soon this issue was resolved," Pandey claimed. However, Khushboo Jain says such problems still exist as the technologically-advanced students keep finding new ways of creating trouble. Not just this, the security of teachers as well as some students have also been jeopardised. "A father of one of my students once called me at 10 pm. I did not have his number saved, so I picked up. He started telling me that his daughter has not been talking to him, which is worrying him. Shockingly, he then led the conversation to my likes and dislikes and started telling me things he likes about me. I had to excuse myself and block the person on WhatsApp," Khushboo Jain recalls. "I reported the incident to school authorities and we were provided with another official number to deal with parents in the school hours. That helped me and other teachers who had suffered the same." Some teachers have also burnt the pressure of not having fixed working hours anymore. From putting in extra hours in making Powerpoint presentations to spending extra time with students who find it hard to cope up with the new normal, teachers have lost count of the number of extra hours they have been working. However, like a true guru, these teachers have kept their calm and selflessly dedicated their time to students. "I feel that there are no defined working hours for teachers but I feel that this is the need of the hour. Children need us more than ever, so we need to go beyond the call of duty and be available to them as much as possible," Rinku Pandey said.

More working hours, lack of privacy and tech ghost: How teachers coped with the 'new normal' of virtual teaching

Nepal and Indian Army personnel will participate in the 15th edition of two-week joint military exercise Suryakiran from September 20. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Speaking to WION, Nepal Army Spokesperson Santosh Ballav Poudyal said the event will take place in Pithoragadh of India. &nbsp;&nbsp;

“Nepali Army personnel participating in the exercise will travel to Pithoragadh in India. The event will take place from September 20 to October 3. As many as 300 Nepali Army personnel will participate along with similar number of Indian Army personnel,” Poudyal told WION.

Watch |&nbsp;MEA: India's concern is to prevent use of Afghan soil for terrorist activities&nbsp;

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The Army Spokesperson said this comes after the series of discussion that took place during the visit of Nepalese army delegation to India recently to meet their Indian counterparts. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Suryakiran is the biggest of cross-country military exercise that Nepal participates in, in terms of the number of personnel involved. &nbsp;&nbsp;

He confirmed that Nepal and India alternately host each edition of the exercise. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/south-asia/nepal-government-objects-to-burning-of-indian-pm-modis-effigy-in-kathmandu-410851" hreflang="en">Nepal government objects to burning of Indian PM Modi's effigy in Kathmandu</a>

“The area of focus in the exercise will be counter insurgency and general warfare technique. The exercise had to be postponed in 2020 due to the pandemic,” said Poudyal. &nbsp;&nbsp;

When asked what safety protocols will be carried out due to Covid, he said, “All personnel will be double vaccinated and PCR tests will be conducted before they join the event. Of course, all other COVID-19 safety protocols will be followed.” &nbsp;

Speaking about the invitation of Indian Army to retired Nepali Army Chiefs of Staff, he said, “Around eight retired Army Chiefs have been invited and not everybody has confirmed their participation. The programme will take place in New Delhi this September.”&nbsp;

Nepal and Indian Army personnel will participate in the 15th edition of two-week joint military exercise Suryakiran from September 20. Speaking to WION, Nepal Army Spokesperson Santosh Ballav Poudyal said the event will take place in Pithoragadh of India.

Nepal and Indian Army personnel will participate in the 15th edition of two-week joint military exercise Suryakiran from September 20. Speaking to WION, Nepal Army Spokesperson Santosh Ballav Poudyal said the event will take place in Pithoragadh of India. “Nepali Army personnel participating in the exercise will travel to Pithoragadh in India. The event will take place from September 20 to October 3. As many as 300 Nepali Army personnel will participate along with similar number of Indian Army personnel,” Poudyal told WION. Watch | MEA: India's concern is to prevent use of Afghan soil for terrorist activities × The Army Spokesperson said this comes after the series of discussion that took place during the visit of Nepalese army delegation to India recently to meet their Indian counterparts. Suryakiran is the biggest of cross-country military exercise that Nepal participates in, in terms of the number of personnel involved. He confirmed that Nepal and India alternately host each edition of the exercise. Also Read: Nepal government objects to burning of Indian PM Modi's effigy in Kathmandu “The area of focus in the exercise will be counter insurgency and general warfare technique. The exercise had to be postponed in 2020 due to the pandemic,” said Poudyal. When asked what safety protocols will be carried out due to Covid, he said, “All personnel will be double vaccinated and PCR tests will be conducted before they join the event. Of course, all other COVID-19 safety protocols will be followed.” Speaking about the invitation of Indian Army to retired Nepali Army Chiefs of Staff, he said, “Around eight retired Army Chiefs have been invited and not everybody has confirmed their participation. The programme will take place in New Delhi this September.”

India, Nepal to hold annual joint military exercise from September 20

Indian&nbsp;Embassy in Nepal and Central Level Project Implementation Unit (Building) of National Reconstruction Authority (NRA) signed&nbsp;MoUs&nbsp;for the reconstruction of 14 cultural heritage projects and 103 health sector projects across various districts in Nepal.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Issuing a statement, the Indian Embassy said these projects, which were damaged during the 2015 earthquake, will be reconstructed at a cost of NRs 4200 million.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Indian PM Narendra Modi to attend SCO summit virtually

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“Under post-earthquake reconstruction package, Government of India (GoI) has allocated total grant of USD 250 million, including US $50 million each for education, cultural heritage and health sector, and USD 100 million for the housing sector,” said the statement.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“In total, 71 education sector projects, 28 cultural heritage sector projects in 7 districts, 147 health facilities in 10&nbsp;districts&nbsp;and&nbsp;construction of 50,000 houses in Gorkha and&nbsp;Nuwakot&nbsp;is being undertaken with&nbsp;GoI&nbsp;grant assistance,” it added.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-us-closely-watching-pakistans-actions-in-afghanistan-says-foreign-secretary-shringla-410582" hreflang="en">India, US closely watching Pakistan's actions in Afghanistan, says Foreign Secretary Shringla</a>

The&nbsp;MoUs&nbsp;were signed by both sides in the presence of Karun Bansal, First Secretary (Development Partnership and Reconstruction) and Shyam Kishore Singh, Project Director, CLPIU (Bldg).&nbsp;&nbsp;

CLPIU (Building) of NRA is the implementing agency for both health and cultural heritage sector projects.&nbsp;

Indian Embassy in Nepal and Central Level Project Implementation Unit (Building) of National Reconstruction Authority (NRA) signed MoUs for the reconstruction of 14 cultural heritage projects and 103 health sector projects across various districts in Nepal.

Indian Embassy in Nepal and Central Level Project Implementation Unit (Building) of National Reconstruction Authority (NRA) signed MoUs for the reconstruction of 14 cultural heritage projects and 103 health sector projects across various districts in Nepal. Issuing a statement, the Indian Embassy said these projects, which were damaged during the 2015 earthquake, will be reconstructed at a cost of NRs 4200 million. Watch: Indian PM Narendra Modi to attend SCO summit virtually × “Under post-earthquake reconstruction package, Government of India (GoI) has allocated total grant of USD 250 million, including US $50 million each for education, cultural heritage and health sector, and USD 100 million for the housing sector,” said the statement. “In total, 71 education sector projects, 28 cultural heritage sector projects in 7 districts, 147 health facilities in 10 districts and construction of 50,000 houses in Gorkha and Nuwakot is being undertaken with GoI grant assistance,” it added. Also Read: India, US closely watching Pakistan's actions in Afghanistan, says Foreign Secretary Shringla The MoUs were signed by both sides in the presence of Karun Bansal, First Secretary (Development Partnership and Reconstruction) and Shyam Kishore Singh, Project Director, CLPIU (Bldg). CLPIU (Building) of NRA is the implementing agency for both health and cultural heritage sector projects.

India, Nepal sign MoUs worth NRs 4200 mn to reconstruct projects damaged in 2015 quake

India has no plans to participate in Shanghai Cooperation Organization’s&nbsp;anti-terror exercises in Pabbi, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. The exercise will take place later this month in the country, which became a member of the grouping in 2017 along with India.&nbsp;

The "Pabbi-Antiterror-2021" was first announced in March of this year after the 36th meeting of the Council of the Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS) that took place in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. During the meet, the member states also approved the draft&nbsp;programme&nbsp;of cooperation for 2022-2024 to counter terrorism, separatism and extremism.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Can India &amp; Russia cooperate on Afghanistan?

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SCO's Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS) is headquartered in Tashkent. During a February visit to the headquarters by a Pakistani delegation, Islamabad presented preliminary information on the design and preparation of “Pabbi-Antiterror-2021”.&nbsp;

In 2020, India had not participated in SCO counter terror exercise-Kavkaz in Russia that saw participation of Chinese and Pakistani forces. Those exercises in&nbsp;September&nbsp;2020 came in the backdrop of aggressive action by the Chinese at the Line of Actual Control in Eastern Ladakh's&nbsp;Galwan&nbsp;that killed 20 Indian soldiers.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-us-closely-watching-pakistans-actions-in-afghanistan-says-foreign-secretary-shringla-410582" hreflang="en">India, US closely watching Pakistan's actions in Afghanistan, says Foreign Secretary Shringla</a>

Interesting to note, that India will take part in SCO's Peace Mission 2021 that is going to take place this month in Russia. "Peace Mission&nbsp;2021" exercise will be undertaken at Orenburg Oblast, Russia, from September 11 to 25. The exercise will see participation of all SCO member countries, including China and Pakistan.&nbsp;

SCO grouping has 8 member states, which are&nbsp;Russia, China, India, Pakistan and&nbsp;four&nbsp;central Asian countries,&nbsp;Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan&nbsp;and&nbsp;Kyrgyzstan. This month will see the Shanghai Cooperation&nbsp;Organisation&nbsp;or SCO heads of state summit as well on September 16&nbsp;and&nbsp;17 in Tajikistan's capital Dushanbe. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will participate in the summit, which will be hybrid&nbsp;with some leaders participating in person.&nbsp;

India has no plans to participate in Shanghai Cooperation Organization’s anti-terror exercises in Pabbi, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. The exercise will take place later this month in the country, which became a member of the grouping in 2017 along with India.

India has no plans to participate in Shanghai Cooperation Organization’s anti-terror exercises in Pabbi, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. The exercise will take place later this month in the country, which became a member of the grouping in 2017 along with India. The "Pabbi-Antiterror-2021" was first announced in March of this year after the 36th meeting of the Council of the Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS) that took place in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. During the meet, the member states also approved the draft programme of cooperation for 2022-2024 to counter terrorism, separatism and extremism. Watch | Gravitas: Can India & Russia cooperate on Afghanistan? × SCO's Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS) is headquartered in Tashkent. During a February visit to the headquarters by a Pakistani delegation, Islamabad presented preliminary information on the design and preparation of “Pabbi-Antiterror-2021”. In 2020, India had not participated in SCO counter terror exercise-Kavkaz in Russia that saw participation of Chinese and Pakistani forces. Those exercises in September 2020 came in the backdrop of aggressive action by the Chinese at the Line of Actual Control in Eastern Ladakh's Galwan that killed 20 Indian soldiers. Also Read | India, US closely watching Pakistan's actions in Afghanistan, says Foreign Secretary Shringla Interesting to note, that India will take part in SCO's Peace Mission 2021 that is going to take place this month in Russia. "Peace Mission 2021" exercise will be undertaken at Orenburg Oblast, Russia, from September 11 to 25. The exercise will see participation of all SCO member countries, including China and Pakistan. SCO grouping has 8 member states, which are Russia, China, India, Pakistan and four central Asian countries, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan. This month will see the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation or SCO heads of state summit as well on September 16 and 17 in Tajikistan's capital Dushanbe. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will participate in the summit, which will be hybrid with some leaders participating in person.

No Indian plans to participate in SCO anti-terror exercises in Pakistan 

A visit by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the US later this month is likely to depend on the finality over hosting of the first in-person summit of the Quad leaders by the Biden administration, people familiar with the development said on Saturday.

The tentative schedule explored for the visit was between September 22-27 and the preparations were focused on three segments -- Modi's address at the UN General Assembly in New York, participation at the proposed Quad summit in Washington and a bilateral meeting with President Joe Biden, they said.

However, the sudden decision by Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga to step down by the end of September triggered uncertainty over the US hosting of the in-person Quad summit as

Tokyo is learnt to have requested for a hybrid format for the talks.

The people cited above said there was no final decision yet on the proposed visit to the US by Modi in view of the uncertainty over the holding of the Quad summit among the leaders of the US, India, Japan and Australia in Washington.

Suga, who became prime minister of Japan a year ago after Shinzo Abe stepped down, announced on Friday that he will not seek re-election as leader of the Liberal Democrat Party (LDP) at the end of September.

His announcement and the political turmoil in Tokyo have also thrown into doubt the holding of the in-person India-Japan summit for the third consecutive year.

The annual summit between Modi and his then Japanese counterpart Abe was cancelled in December 2019 in Guwahati in the wake of massive protests rocking the Assam city over the amended citizenship law.

In 2020, the summit could not be held due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The people cited above said India and the US held a series of meetings as part of preparations for Modi's visit to the US, which if it takes place, will be the first one after Biden took charge of the US in January.

It is learnt that the issue figured during Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla's recent meetings in Washington.

The Biden administration has put cooperation with India a key aspect of its overall foreign policy priorities on the Indo-Pacific, a region that has witnessed growing Chinese military assertiveness.

The US has been looking at convening the in-person summit of the leaders of Quad to boost practical cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region as well as to send a strong signal about Washington's commitment to the grouping.

In March, President Biden hosted the first-ever summit of the Quad leaders in the virtual format that vowed to strive for an Indo-Pacific region that is free, open, inclusive, anchored by democratic values, and unconstrained by coercion, sending an apparent message to China.

The last time Modi visited the US was in September 2019 when he and then US President Donald Trump addressed the Howdy Modi event in Houston.

If Modi's visit takes place, then it could signal a new phase in the two-way strategic engagement between India and the US.

The Afghan crisis as well as developments in the Indo-Pacific region could be the major focus areas for discussion between the two sides. US Secretary of state Antony Blinken paid a two-day visit to India in July. Before that, US Defence Secretary Lloyd J Austin had paid a three-day visit to New Delhi in March.&nbsp;

A visit by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the US later this month is likely to depend on the finality over hosting of the first in-person summit of the Quad leaders by the Biden administration, people familiar with the development said on Saturday.

A visit by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the US later this month is likely to depend on the finality over hosting of the first in-person summit of the Quad leaders by the Biden administration, people familiar with the development said on Saturday. The tentative schedule explored for the visit was between September 22-27 and the preparations were focused on three segments -- Modi's address at the UN General Assembly in New York, participation at the proposed Quad summit in Washington and a bilateral meeting with President Joe Biden, they said. However, the sudden decision by Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga to step down by the end of September triggered uncertainty over the US hosting of the in-person Quad summit as Tokyo is learnt to have requested for a hybrid format for the talks. The people cited above said there was no final decision yet on the proposed visit to the US by Modi in view of the uncertainty over the holding of the Quad summit among the leaders of the US, India, Japan and Australia in Washington. Suga, who became prime minister of Japan a year ago after Shinzo Abe stepped down, announced on Friday that he will not seek re-election as leader of the Liberal Democrat Party (LDP) at the end of September. His announcement and the political turmoil in Tokyo have also thrown into doubt the holding of the in-person India-Japan summit for the third consecutive year. The annual summit between Modi and his then Japanese counterpart Abe was cancelled in December 2019 in Guwahati in the wake of massive protests rocking the Assam city over the amended citizenship law. In 2020, the summit could not be held due to the coronavirus pandemic. The people cited above said India and the US held a series of meetings as part of preparations for Modi's visit to the US, which if it takes place, will be the first one after Biden took charge of the US in January. It is learnt that the issue figured during Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla's recent meetings in Washington. The Biden administration has put cooperation with India a key aspect of its overall foreign policy priorities on the Indo-Pacific, a region that has witnessed growing Chinese military assertiveness. The US has been looking at convening the in-person summit of the leaders of Quad to boost practical cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region as well as to send a strong signal about Washington's commitment to the grouping. In March, President Biden hosted the first-ever summit of the Quad leaders in the virtual format that vowed to strive for an Indo-Pacific region that is free, open, inclusive, anchored by democratic values, and unconstrained by coercion, sending an apparent message to China. The last time Modi visited the US was in September 2019 when he and then US President Donald Trump addressed the Howdy Modi event in Houston. If Modi's visit takes place, then it could signal a new phase in the two-way strategic engagement between India and the US. The Afghan crisis as well as developments in the Indo-Pacific region could be the major focus areas for discussion between the two sides. US Secretary of state Antony Blinken paid a two-day visit to India in July. Before that, US Defence Secretary Lloyd J Austin had paid a three-day visit to New Delhi in March.

PM Modi likely to visit the US in late September

India has pitched for an early outcome of the TRIPS waiver proposal for COVID-19 vaccines, therapeutics and diagnostics in the World Trade Organisation (WTO), an official release said on Saturday.

Addressing a meeting, which was attended by trade and economic ministers of BRICS countries on Friday, Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal also stressed on finding a permanent, adequate and equitable solution to the public stockholding programmes for food security purposes.

He also asked for adoption of emerging new technologies in a swiftly changing world while finding solutions to the challenges of data protection and cyber security; and ensuring sustainable consumption and production patterns.

The minister "emphasized, amongst other things, on the need for a permanent, adequate and equitable solution to the Public Stock Holding programmes for food security purposes; early outcome of the TRIPS Waiver proposal for vaccines," the release said.

In October 2020, India and South Africa had submitted the first proposal, suggesting a waiver for all WTO (World Trade Organisation) members on the implementation of certain provisions of the

TRIPs Agreement in relation to the prevention, containment or treatment of COVID-19.

In May this year, a revised proposal was submitted by 62 co-sponsors, including India, South Africa, and Indonesia.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-trips-waiver-proposal-at-wto-gets-a-boost-secures-support-of-57-nations-366238">India's TRIPS waiver proposal at WTO gets a boost, secures support of 57 nations</a>

The agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights or TRIPs came into effect in January 1995. It is a multilateral agreement on intellectual property (IP) rights such as copyright, industrial designs, patents and protection of undisclosed information or trade secrets.

Further the minister has said that the BRICS countries should work together for strengthening the multilateral system, stating that there is a need for a balanced and inclusive outcome in the forthcoming WTO Ministerial Conference.

The BRICS countries have endorsed the Framework for Cooperation in Trade in Professional Services with the objectives of enhancing domestic capacity and global competitiveness, promoting participation in intra-BRICS mobility of professionals and enhancing trade in professional services.

All BRICS members could for the first time reach a consensus for jointly working towards protection of genetic resources, traditional knowledge, it added.

"In this era of exponential jump in the use of e-commerce and online electronic transactions, the convergence to draw a common Action plan amongst BRICS countries will help to promote exploring practical options for ensuring consumer protection," it said.&nbsp;

India has pitched for an early outcome of the TRIPS waiver proposal for COVID-19 vaccines, therapeutics and diagnostics in the World Trade Organisation (WTO), an official release said on Saturday.

India has pitched for an early outcome of the TRIPS waiver proposal for COVID-19 vaccines, therapeutics and diagnostics in the World Trade Organisation (WTO), an official release said on Saturday. Addressing a meeting, which was attended by trade and economic ministers of BRICS countries on Friday, Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal also stressed on finding a permanent, adequate and equitable solution to the public stockholding programmes for food security purposes. He also asked for adoption of emerging new technologies in a swiftly changing world while finding solutions to the challenges of data protection and cyber security; and ensuring sustainable consumption and production patterns. The minister "emphasized, amongst other things, on the need for a permanent, adequate and equitable solution to the Public Stock Holding programmes for food security purposes; early outcome of the TRIPS Waiver proposal for vaccines," the release said. In October 2020, India and South Africa had submitted the first proposal, suggesting a waiver for all WTO (World Trade Organisation) members on the implementation of certain provisions of the TRIPs Agreement in relation to the prevention, containment or treatment of COVID-19. In May this year, a revised proposal was submitted by 62 co-sponsors, including India, South Africa, and Indonesia. Also read | India's TRIPS waiver proposal at WTO gets a boost, secures support of 57 nations The agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights or TRIPs came into effect in January 1995. It is a multilateral agreement on intellectual property (IP) rights such as copyright, industrial designs, patents and protection of undisclosed information or trade secrets. Further the minister has said that the BRICS countries should work together for strengthening the multilateral system, stating that there is a need for a balanced and inclusive outcome in the forthcoming WTO Ministerial Conference. The BRICS countries have endorsed the Framework for Cooperation in Trade in Professional Services with the objectives of enhancing domestic capacity and global competitiveness, promoting participation in intra-BRICS mobility of professionals and enhancing trade in professional services. All BRICS members could for the first time reach a consensus for jointly working towards protection of genetic resources, traditional knowledge, it added. "In this era of exponential jump in the use of e-commerce and online electronic transactions, the convergence to draw a common Action plan amongst BRICS countries will help to promote exploring practical options for ensuring consumer protection," it said.

India for early outcome of TRIPS waiver for COVID vax, diagnotics

Turkey has eased quarantine rules for travelers from India from today, in a move that will help increase people to people engagement.

One of the key relaxations will be for people who have been vaccinated with Covishield —&nbsp;both doses will be exempted from mandatory quarantine.

A release by the Turkish embassy in Delhi said, "Passengers who certify that they have had at least two&nbsp;doses (single dose for Johnson and Johnson) of the vaccines approved for emergency use by the World Health Organization or Turkey, provided that at least 14 days have passed since the last dose, will be exempted from mandatory quarantine".&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-can-long-covid-be-linked-to-dementia-410574">WATCH |</a>

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Covishield&nbsp;has been approved for emergency use by the World Health Organization.

All travelers from India must submit a negative PCR test taken no more than 72 hours before their arrival — something that is a requirement globally as well. When it comes to passengers under the age of 12, they are exempted from PCR test and vaccination certificate application on entry.

Speaking exclusively to WION on Friday, Turkey's envoy to Delhi, Firat Sunel said, "In light of the recent updated quarantine regulations for passengers from India to Turkey, more Indian tourists will benefit from the beauties of Turkey and hospitalities of Turkish people."

Meanwhile, travelers from India who are not able to present double dose vaccination certificate will have to quarantine at their declared residence or the address provided by them. After 10 days of their arrival, the travelers will have to go through a&nbsp;PCR test and they will be permitted to go out if it comes out negative. A positive test, however, will keep them quarantined under the COVID-19 guidelines of the health ministry.

Turkey has eased quarantine rules for travelers from India from today, in a move that will help increase people to people engagement. One of the key relaxations will be for people who have been vaccinated with Covishield — both doses will be exempted from mandatory quarantine.

Turkey has eased quarantine rules for travelers from India from today, in a move that will help increase people to people engagement. One of the key relaxations will be for people who have been vaccinated with Covishield — both doses will be exempted from mandatory quarantine. A release by the Turkish embassy in Delhi said, "Passengers who certify that they have had at least two doses (single dose for Johnson and Johnson) of the vaccines approved for emergency use by the World Health Organization or Turkey, provided that at least 14 days have passed since the last dose, will be exempted from mandatory quarantine". WATCH | Covishield has been approved for emergency use by the World Health Organization. All travelers from India must submit a negative PCR test taken no more than 72 hours before their arrival — something that is a requirement globally as well. When it comes to passengers under the age of 12, they are exempted from PCR test and vaccination certificate application on entry. Speaking exclusively to WION on Friday, Turkey's envoy to Delhi, Firat Sunel said, "In light of the recent updated quarantine regulations for passengers from India to Turkey, more Indian tourists will benefit from the beauties of Turkey and hospitalities of Turkish people." Meanwhile, travelers from India who are not able to present double dose vaccination certificate will have to quarantine at their declared residence or the address provided by them. After 10 days of their arrival, the travelers will have to go through a PCR test and they will be permitted to go out if it comes out negative. A positive test, however, will keep them quarantined under the COVID-19 guidelines of the health ministry.

Turkey eases quarantine rules for travelers from India

Ladakh is among one of the topmost travelled destinations in the country, with breathtaking beautiful mountain ranges to freshwater lakes.&nbsp;

It has been one of the most visited places by tourists in India.

Now, the government is promoting the horticulture Industry in the Union Territory.&nbsp;

Apricots from Ladakh are famous and of high quality.&nbsp;

For the first time, the government is exporting the fruit to Dubai. Apricots are one of the major fruits with a very distinctive taste and texture produced in Ladakh.&nbsp;Around half a dozen varieties of apricots are grown in Ladakh.&nbsp;

<img alt="Apricots " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9a6ec9fd-e64a-4d39-85ad-9d533a9b7258" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Image%20%282%29.jpeg" />

Most of them are of high quality.

It is the primary cash crop for the farmers of Kargil and was never exported before.&nbsp;

However, this year, the government with help of a private farmer-centric firm undertook this task to market the apricots from Ladakh.

<img alt="apricot " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="af49b58b-88e1-4ad8-a737-3814abd1ef1d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Image%20%281%29.jpeg" />

''The event marks an important milestone for Kargil, the fruit has not only been sent to the Indian market but also to the international market, with their first order of 150 kg from Dubai. Paving the way for local entrepreneurs to participate in the value chain of Apricot, this initiative would also ensure that the farmers of Kargil benefit from reduced wastage and receive an immediate realisation of the value of their crop. Apricot has recently been identified as the primary crop for Kargil under the ODOC programme of the Government of India.'' said Feroz Ahmad Khan, CEC LAHDC Kargil.

The farmers from Ladakh are happy that this initiative was taken by the government along with a private firm Krishak Agritech.&nbsp;

Earlier the farmers could not send across the fresh apricots from the Ladakh region.

''We are thankful to Krishak Agritech and It's because of them that we are able to export apricots. We only used to dry the apricots earlier but now we are able to send fresh apricots to dubai. People are extremely happy by this step.'' said Mohd Abbas, Farmer Kargil.

Krishak Agritech has exported 20 MT of fresh apricots procured from more than 200 farmers of UT of Ladakh.&nbsp;

The value of this is around 30 Lakh rupees and also generating an avenue of employment for the locals.

''We have a plan to set up a food processing unit before next season of apricot. We will also teach farmers how to hygienically dry the apricots," said &nbsp;Naveen Gahlawat, Founder, Krishak Agritech. &nbsp;

The government is now looking at other countries in the middle east to export the apricots.

Ladakh is among one of the topmost travelled destinations in the country, with breathtaking beautiful mountain ranges to freshwater lakes. It has been one of the most visited places by tourists in India.

Ladakh is among one of the topmost travelled destinations in the country, with breathtaking beautiful mountain ranges to freshwater lakes. It has been one of the most visited places by tourists in India. Now, the government is promoting the horticulture Industry in the Union Territory. Apricots from Ladakh are famous and of high quality. For the first time, the government is exporting the fruit to Dubai. Apricots are one of the major fruits with a very distinctive taste and texture produced in Ladakh. Around half a dozen varieties of apricots are grown in Ladakh. Most of them are of high quality. It is the primary cash crop for the farmers of Kargil and was never exported before. However, this year, the government with help of a private farmer-centric firm undertook this task to market the apricots from Ladakh. ''The event marks an important milestone for Kargil, the fruit has not only been sent to the Indian market but also to the international market, with their first order of 150 kg from Dubai. Paving the way for local entrepreneurs to participate in the value chain of Apricot, this initiative would also ensure that the farmers of Kargil benefit from reduced wastage and receive an immediate realisation of the value of their crop. Apricot has recently been identified as the primary crop for Kargil under the ODOC programme of the Government of India.'' said Feroz Ahmad Khan, CEC LAHDC Kargil. The farmers from Ladakh are happy that this initiative was taken by the government along with a private firm Krishak Agritech. Earlier the farmers could not send across the fresh apricots from the Ladakh region. ''We are thankful to Krishak Agritech and It's because of them that we are able to export apricots. We only used to dry the apricots earlier but now we are able to send fresh apricots to dubai. People are extremely happy by this step.'' said Mohd Abbas, Farmer Kargil. Krishak Agritech has exported 20 MT of fresh apricots procured from more than 200 farmers of UT of Ladakh. The value of this is around 30 Lakh rupees and also generating an avenue of employment for the locals. ''We have a plan to set up a food processing unit before next season of apricot. We will also teach farmers how to hygienically dry the apricots," said Naveen Gahlawat, Founder, Krishak Agritech. The government is now looking at other countries in the middle east to export the apricots.

Ladakh exports its first batch of Apricots to Dubai

At a joint press conference along with his Croatian counterpart Gordan Grlic Radman,&nbsp;Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said on Friday that India and Croatia shared a lot of common positions on issues like the Indo-Pacific, situation in Afghanistan and the two countries' resolve to fight terrorism in all its forms and manifestations.

The Indian external affairs minister said, "On international issues, we shared a lot of common positions and perspectives. It was very apparent in our discussions on Indo-Pacific, on Afghanistan, on our resolve how to counter terrorism in all its forms and manifestations."

Watch:&nbsp;India's Foreign Secretary visits Washington to discuss bilateral ties, Afghan crisis

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In a tweet about the meeting,&nbsp;Jaishankar said, "Fruitful talks with Croatia’s Foreign Minister&nbsp;Gordan Grlic Radman."

Talking about the issues discussed, he added, "Detailed exchanges on full range of bilateral cooperation, regional and global issues.&nbsp;Committed to work with him to take our ties to a higher level."

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Fruitful talks with Croatia’s Foreign Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/grlicradman?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@grlicradman</a> . 
 
Detailed exchanges on full range of bilateral cooperation, regional and global issues. 
 
Committed to work with him to take our ties to a higher level. <a href="https://t.co/bSPnNI4IlD">pic.twitter.com/bSPnNI4IlD</a>
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1433878467636957185?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 3, 2021</a></blockquote>
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With increasing economic cooperation between the two countries on mind, the Indian minister said&nbsp;there are a lot of opportunities in pharmaceuticals, digital and infrastructure sectors. "We believe that Indian companies will find Croatia a very good platform to operate and invest," minister added.

In the meeting, the two leaders discussed numerous topics of mutual interest, which included situation in Afghanistan, economic and cultural cooperation, EU-India relations&nbsp;and post-COVID-19 recovery.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/militants-may-use-afghan-chaos-to-infiltrate-us-eu-nato-410633" hreflang="en">Militants may use Afghan chaos to infiltrate US, EU: NATO</a>

After completing two-day visit to Slovenia, the minister reached&nbsp;Croatia where Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic&nbsp;received him.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

At a joint press conference along with his Croatian counterpart Gordan Grlic Radman, Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said on Friday that India and Croatia shared a lot of common positions on issues like the Indo-Pacific, situation in Afghanistan and the two countries' resolve to fight terrorism in all its forms and manifestations.

At a joint press conference along with his Croatian counterpart Gordan Grlic Radman, Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said on Friday that India and Croatia shared a lot of common positions on issues like the Indo-Pacific, situation in Afghanistan and the two countries' resolve to fight terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. The Indian external affairs minister said, "On international issues, we shared a lot of common positions and perspectives. It was very apparent in our discussions on Indo-Pacific, on Afghanistan, on our resolve how to counter terrorism in all its forms and manifestations." Watch: India's Foreign Secretary visits Washington to discuss bilateral ties, Afghan crisis × In a tweet about the meeting, Jaishankar said, "Fruitful talks with Croatia’s Foreign Minister Gordan Grlic Radman." Talking about the issues discussed, he added, "Detailed exchanges on full range of bilateral cooperation, regional and global issues. Committed to work with him to take our ties to a higher level." Fruitful talks with Croatia’s Foreign Minister @grlicradman . Detailed exchanges on full range of bilateral cooperation, regional and global issues. Committed to work with him to take our ties to a higher level. pic.twitter.com/bSPnNI4IlD — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) September 3, 2021 × With increasing economic cooperation between the two countries on mind, the Indian minister said there are a lot of opportunities in pharmaceuticals, digital and infrastructure sectors. "We believe that Indian companies will find Croatia a very good platform to operate and invest," minister added. In the meeting, the two leaders discussed numerous topics of mutual interest, which included situation in Afghanistan, economic and cultural cooperation, EU-India relations and post-COVID-19 recovery. Also Read | Militants may use Afghan chaos to infiltrate US, EU: NATO After completing two-day visit to Slovenia, the minister reached Croatia where Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic received him. (With inputs from agencies)

India, Croatia share common position on Afghanistan situation, says Jaishankar

A mysterious structure resembling a tunnel has been discovered at the Legislative Assembly of India's capital, New Delhi.

The tunnel's entrance is hidden and it&nbsp;connects Delhi's Legislative Assembly to the Red Fort.

''There is no clarity over its history, but it was used by Britishers to avoid reprisal while moving freedom fighters,'' said Delhi Assembly Speaker Ram Niwas Goel.

The hidden passage discovered dates back to 1911 when Britishers moved the Indian capital from Calcutta (Kolkata) to New Delhi during its colonial rule.

The origin of the tunnel has been identified and it will soon be available for a public visit after it is refurbished by August 15 next year.

The shallow chamber is 5 feet deep and 15 feet wide and is concealed beneath the colonial building that used to house the Indian parliament.

During British rule, it was used to ferry prisoners from the Red Fort to the courtroom.

The fortified building was made during the Mughal era but the Britishers held political prisoners inside it.

A mysterious structure resembling a tunnel has been discovered at the Legislative Assembly of India's capital, New Delhi. The tunnel's entrance is hidden and it connects Delhi's Legislative Assembly to the Red Fort.

A mysterious structure resembling a tunnel has been discovered at the Legislative Assembly of India's capital, New Delhi. The tunnel's entrance is hidden and it connects Delhi's Legislative Assembly to the Red Fort. ''There is no clarity over its history, but it was used by Britishers to avoid reprisal while moving freedom fighters,'' said Delhi Assembly Speaker Ram Niwas Goel. The hidden passage discovered dates back to 1911 when Britishers moved the Indian capital from Calcutta (Kolkata) to New Delhi during its colonial rule. The origin of the tunnel has been identified and it will soon be available for a public visit after it is refurbished by August 15 next year. The shallow chamber is 5 feet deep and 15 feet wide and is concealed beneath the colonial building that used to house the Indian parliament. During British rule, it was used to ferry prisoners from the Red Fort to the courtroom. The fortified building was made during the Mughal era but the Britishers held political prisoners inside it.

Mysterious tunnel from British-era discovered at Legislative Assembly of India's capital

Amid concerns in India that Afghan soil under the Taliban regime can be used for terrorist activities against it, the insurgent group has said it has the right to speak out in favour of Muslims anywhere, including in Kashmir, though it does not have a policy of conducting "armed operations" against any country.

Suhail Shaheen, Taliban spokesman for its political office in Doha, in an exclusive interview to BBC through video link on September 2, said, "We will raise our voice and say that Muslims are your own people, your own citizens and they are entitled to equal rights under your law." As Muslims, it was the group's right to speak out for Muslims living in Kashmir and any other country, Suhail Shaheen said while speaking from Doha.

While recalling the terms of the Doha agreement with the U.S., he said they had "no policy of conducting armed operations against any country".

Shaheen's remarks came days after the Ministry of External Affairs in New Delhi said Indian envoy to Qatar Deepak Mittal met Sher Mohammad Abbas Stanekzai, the head of the Taliban's Political Office in Doha, at the request of the group. In the meeting, Mittal conveyed to Stanekzai that Afghanistan's soil should not be used for anti-Indian activities and terrorism.

It was the first publicly acknowledged formal diplomatic engagement that came two weeks after the Taliban seized control of Afghanistan. MEA Spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said at his weekly briefing on September 2 that India's immediate focus in Afghanistan is to ensure that Afghan soil is not used for terrorist activities against it and it was still "very early days" to talk about any possible recognition to the Taliban.

On a question on Mittal's meeting with Stanekzai, he said, "We used the opportunity to convey our concerns, whether it is in getting people out of Afghanistan or on the issue of terrorism. We received a positive response. "

Regarding the Haqqani Network, Shaheen said that the propaganda against the Haqqanis was based on mere claims. He said Haqqani is not a group but they are part of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan. "They are the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan," he added.

His remarks came after Al-Qaeda, through its Al-Sahab media, asked the Muslim community to "free" other Muslim lands after the liberation of Afghanistan, putting Kashmir on the list of targets of jihad.

Besides Kashmir, it shortlisted the Levant, comprising Iraq, Syria, Jordan, and Lebanon; the Maghreb, or the region in northwest Africa consisting of Libya, Morocco, Algeria, Mauritania, Tunisia, and Somalia; and Yemen as its priorities.

Amid concerns in India that Afghan soil under the Taliban regime can be used for terrorist activities against it, the insurgent group has said it has the right to speak out in favour of Muslims anywhere, including in Kashmir, though it does not have a policy of conducting "armed operations" against any country.

Amid concerns in India that Afghan soil under the Taliban regime can be used for terrorist activities against it, the insurgent group has said it has the right to speak out in favour of Muslims anywhere, including in Kashmir, though it does not have a policy of conducting "armed operations" against any country. Suhail Shaheen, Taliban spokesman for its political office in Doha, in an exclusive interview to BBC through video link on September 2, said, "We will raise our voice and say that Muslims are your own people, your own citizens and they are entitled to equal rights under your law." As Muslims, it was the group's right to speak out for Muslims living in Kashmir and any other country, Suhail Shaheen said while speaking from Doha. While recalling the terms of the Doha agreement with the U.S., he said they had "no policy of conducting armed operations against any country". Shaheen's remarks came days after the Ministry of External Affairs in New Delhi said Indian envoy to Qatar Deepak Mittal met Sher Mohammad Abbas Stanekzai, the head of the Taliban's Political Office in Doha, at the request of the group. In the meeting, Mittal conveyed to Stanekzai that Afghanistan's soil should not be used for anti-Indian activities and terrorism. It was the first publicly acknowledged formal diplomatic engagement that came two weeks after the Taliban seized control of Afghanistan. MEA Spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said at his weekly briefing on September 2 that India's immediate focus in Afghanistan is to ensure that Afghan soil is not used for terrorist activities against it and it was still "very early days" to talk about any possible recognition to the Taliban. On a question on Mittal's meeting with Stanekzai, he said, "We used the opportunity to convey our concerns, whether it is in getting people out of Afghanistan or on the issue of terrorism. We received a positive response. " Regarding the Haqqani Network, Shaheen said that the propaganda against the Haqqanis was based on mere claims. He said Haqqani is not a group but they are part of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan. "They are the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan," he added. His remarks came after Al-Qaeda, through its Al-Sahab media, asked the Muslim community to "free" other Muslim lands after the liberation of Afghanistan, putting Kashmir on the list of targets of jihad. Besides Kashmir, it shortlisted the Levant, comprising Iraq, Syria, Jordan, and Lebanon; the Maghreb, or the region in northwest Africa consisting of Libya, Morocco, Algeria, Mauritania, Tunisia, and Somalia; and Yemen as its priorities.

We have right to raise voice for Muslims anywhere including Kashmir, say the Taliban 

According to a new study, being overweight is caused not just by a lack of exercise or a poor diet, but also by being exposed to excessive amounts of air pollution.

Air pollution has been linked to obesity in studies all around the world, but this is the first time a new study in the country has proven how high levels of air pollution might contribute to weight gain.

This is also one of the first studies in India among teenage school children to reveal a strong correlation between obesity and asthma, as well as the possibility that air pollution plays a role in both.&nbsp;

Obese children had a 79 per cent higher likelihood of having asthma, according to the study.

This link was strongest in Delhi, which has hazardous air quality year after year.&nbsp;

The Lung Care Foundation studied 3,157 students from 12 schools in Delhi, as well as the southern Indian cities of Kottayam and Mysuru, which have better air than Delhi.

It was discovered that 39.8% of children in Delhi were overweight, compared to 16.4% in Kottayam and Mysuru.

According to the study, this aligns "extremely well" with the reported particulate matter (PM2.5) levels in these cities, which are harmful microscopic contaminants in the air.

Delhi is one of the world's most polluted cities.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

According to a new study, being overweight is caused not just by a lack of exercise or a poor diet, but also by being exposed to excessive amounts of air pollution.

According to a new study, being overweight is caused not just by a lack of exercise or a poor diet, but also by being exposed to excessive amounts of air pollution. Air pollution has been linked to obesity in studies all around the world, but this is the first time a new study in the country has proven how high levels of air pollution might contribute to weight gain. This is also one of the first studies in India among teenage school children to reveal a strong correlation between obesity and asthma, as well as the possibility that air pollution plays a role in both. Obese children had a 79 per cent higher likelihood of having asthma, according to the study. This link was strongest in Delhi, which has hazardous air quality year after year. The Lung Care Foundation studied 3,157 students from 12 schools in Delhi, as well as the southern Indian cities of Kottayam and Mysuru, which have better air than Delhi. It was discovered that 39.8% of children in Delhi were overweight, compared to 16.4% in Kottayam and Mysuru. According to the study, this aligns "extremely well" with the reported particulate matter (PM2.5) levels in these cities, which are harmful microscopic contaminants in the air. Delhi is one of the world's most polluted cities. (With inputs from agencies)

Air pollution can make children overweight, increase the risk of developing asthma

Turkey's Envoy to India, Firat Sunel, has called for furthering Delhi-Ankara ties, which he described as the "fundamental goal" for his country, given that both countries are "rising stars in their respective regions with their growing economies and increasing role in the international arena, rising stars in their respective regions".

Speaking to WION's Diplomatic correspondent, Sidhant Sibal, Envoy Sunel said, "Turkey and India would benefit from improving comprehensive bilateral relations in all fields."

Fırat Sunel has been the Turkish Envoy to India since May 2021, and had previously been Turkey's founding envoy to Eritrea. He has also authored three novels, one of which was adapted into a TV series.

Turkey has welcomed Delhi-Taliban engagement. Welcoming the statement by the Ministry of External Affairs on India's Taliban engagement, Turkey's Ambassador to India, Fırat Sunel, said, "engagements with all stakeholders are important".

Envoy Sunel explained, "We believe that steady and gradual engagement with the Taliban is one of the key factors for stability in Afghanistan."

The MEA, on August 31, announced that the Indian envoy to Qatar, Deepak Mittal, and the head of the Taliban’s Political Office, Sher Mohammad Abbas Stanekzai, had met. This was the first public announcement of such a meeting, which the statement pointed out happened at the request of the Taliban.

Sidhant Sibal: How do you see India-Turkey ties?

Fırat Sunel: Turkey and India have a long history of close ties. And deep-rooted cordial ties between people always contribute positively to interstate relations. We have many commonalities based on culture and history, and share fundamental values such as democracy and the rule of law.

Turkey was one of the first countries to recognise India’s independence and to establish diplomatic relations with her in 1947. Turkey was also among the first countries to open a diplomatic mission in India, namely in July 1948. The Agreement on Cultural Affairs and the Treaty of Friendship signed in 1951 between Turkey and India were other milestones in our friendly relations.

We have named two streets in Ankara after the great Mahatma Gandhiji and Rabindranath Tagore, while in Delhi, the road right outside the residence of the Honourable Prime Minister of India is named after our founding father, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk.

Both countries are rising stars in their respective regions with their growing economies and increasing role in the international arena. Naturally, it is a fundamental goal for Turkey to further develop and deepen relations with India, and we are pleased to acknowledge similar sentiments from the Indian side.

There is significant potential for further cooperation in key areas such as commerce, trade, investments, culture, tourism, and science. We can further cooperate bilaterally and in international fora on numerous regional and global issues.

In spite of all these facts, I believe our current relations, especially the economic and commercial ones, are far from reflecting the real potential of our respective countries. There is a great room for further enhancing Turkish-Indian cooperation in almost every field.

While we may have differences on certain issues, which is very normal in international relations, we should not allow these to hold hostage the development of our ties.

We should focus on our positive agenda as well as common grounds and interests. In short, Turkey and India would benefit from improving comprehensive bilateral relations in all fields.

Sidhant Sibal: Since your arrival, we have seen positive developments. This includes Turkey sending assistance to India, which interestingly had Rumi quotes. What next is being planned in the ties?

Fırat Sunel: We have an expression in Turkey: "iyi dost kara günde belli olur" (it’s like: a friend in need is a friend indeed). While the COVID-19 pandemic has swept across the world, India was unfortunately one of the countries most adversely affected during the second wave.

And as a friend of India, Turkey couldn’t have stayed idle while India was dealing with the adversities of the pandemic. We sent medical assistance of approximately 45 tonnes on board two A400M military cargo aircraft to support the Indian people, and what better way to express this than with Rumi’s message of hope and optimism.

This message of Rumi ("After hopelessness, there is so much hope and after darkness, there is a much brighter sun") has special relevance here because Sufism is a part of our common cultural values we have been sharing for centuries.

Turkey puts humans at the centre of its foreign policy. Therefore, we have tried to share our sincere feelings with the people of India on many occasions, such as disasters, terrorist acts, etc. through statements by our Foreign Ministry as well as the Embassy.

Showing solidarity with friends in difficult times is our culture, as it is in India. Some people may think that I exaggerate a bit, but it is true: Turkish people still appreciate the contribution of people from British India to Turkey in her liberation war, which later inspired India in her independence struggle against imperialist powers.

Back to the first part of your question: Indeed, this year marked some positive developments in our bilateral relations. For instance, Foreign Ministers His Excellency Jaishankar and His Excellency Çavuşoğlu met in Dushanbe on the margins of the Heart of Asia conference on Afghanistan in March, which was the first such interaction in more than a year.

I sincerely hope we can soon resume high-level bilateral visits. Next year, Turkey and India will celebrate the 75th anniversary of the establishment of their diplomatic ties. I firmly believe that this will mark a great occasion for the enhancement of our relations.

Sidhant Sibal: Any way both sides are planning to increase people-to-people ties, in a post-pandemic world?

Fırat Sunel: Ties between the peoples of Turkey and India are based on solid foundations. The strong connection between our people was manifested many times in our history by the deep-rooted fellowship and affection.

I strongly believe that building people-to-people ties would support the enhancement of relations between states. In this sense, cultural relations will be a priority.

We have so many similarities. Turks like to watch Bollywood movies and Indians like watching Turkish series. Turks are very interested in Indian culture and they really have very warm feelings towards Indians. Indians visiting Turkey notice what I say. We have many areas to cooperate in, from literature to cinema.

Tourism relations is also another area that we could improve. I think collaboration in these fields will allow us to overcome any prejudices.

In my tenure, I will certainly put special focus on these areas. I hope, in light of the recent updated quarantine regulations for passengers from India to Turkey, more Indian tourists will benefit from the beauty of Turkey and the hospitality of the Turkish people.

Sidhant Sibal: When it comes to Afghanistan, what is Turkey's way forward? Turkey has been playing a key role in the country. Will Turkey recognise any Taliban-led government in Kabul?

Fırat Sunel: The evil terrorist attack at the Hamid Karzai International Airport on August 26th, which we all condemned in the strongest term, made it clear once again that the full restoration of security and civil order and the overall protection of human life and property are of utmost importance.

Stability is the most urgent need in Afghanistan and we believe that only inclusive approaches can pave the way to this end. Turkey monitors closely the developments in Afghanistan and follows the talks between the parties carefully. We keep in contact with various Afghan political figures and are ready to do our best to ensure the security and wellbeing of the Afghan people.

We maintain our diplomatic presence in the country and continuously update our plans according to developments regarding the security situation. The Turkish Embassy in Kabul remains open and our Ambassador implements his duties without any interruption.

On the other hand, recognising any government in Afghanistan is an issue which should be considered in light of various factors, such as its approach to fundamental rights and its inclusiveness.

Sidhant Sibal: How do you see India's role in Afghanistan?

Fırat Sunel: We welcome the statement from the Ministry of External Affairs announcing the first official talks in Doha with the Taliban. Engagements with all stakeholders are important.

We believe that steady and gradual engagement with the Taliban is one of the key factors for the stability in Afghanistan. The situation in Afghanistan will have a direct impact on India.

As a country that has contributed USD 3 billion so far to the stability and security of Afghanistan, and as a non-permanent member of the UNSC, India can play an active role in this regard.

Sidhant Sibal: Any way, both countries, India and Turkey, are coordinating on Afghanistan.

Fırat Sunel: The instability and security gaps or risks can directly affect our respective countries adversely, although none of us has common borders with Afghanistan. Therefore, maintaining peace and stability in Afghanistan is in the vital interests of both countries.

Our relevant authorities already collaborated during the air evacuation operations after August 15th at Kabul airport. Turkey and India have made an immense contribution to Afghanistan during the last 20 years. We should continue helping Afghanistan to recover from years of conflict and strife.&nbsp;

Turkey's Envoy to India, Firat Sunel, has called for furthering Delhi-Ankara ties, which he described as the "fundamental goal" for his country, given that both countries are "rising stars in their respective regions with their growing economies and increasing role in the international arena, rising stars in their respective regions".

Turkey's Envoy to India, Firat Sunel, has called for furthering Delhi-Ankara ties, which he described as the "fundamental goal" for his country, given that both countries are "rising stars in their respective regions with their growing economies and increasing role in the international arena, rising stars in their respective regions". Speaking to WION's Diplomatic correspondent, Sidhant Sibal, Envoy Sunel said, "Turkey and India would benefit from improving comprehensive bilateral relations in all fields." Fırat Sunel has been the Turkish Envoy to India since May 2021, and had previously been Turkey's founding envoy to Eritrea. He has also authored three novels, one of which was adapted into a TV series. Turkey has welcomed Delhi-Taliban engagement. Welcoming the statement by the Ministry of External Affairs on India's Taliban engagement, Turkey's Ambassador to India, Fırat Sunel, said, "engagements with all stakeholders are important". Envoy Sunel explained, "We believe that steady and gradual engagement with the Taliban is one of the key factors for stability in Afghanistan." The MEA, on August 31, announced that the Indian envoy to Qatar, Deepak Mittal, and the head of the Taliban’s Political Office, Sher Mohammad Abbas Stanekzai, had met. This was the first public announcement of such a meeting, which the statement pointed out happened at the request of the Taliban. Sidhant Sibal: How do you see India-Turkey ties? Fırat Sunel: Turkey and India have a long history of close ties. And deep-rooted cordial ties between people always contribute positively to interstate relations. We have many commonalities based on culture and history, and share fundamental values such as democracy and the rule of law. Turkey was one of the first countries to recognise India’s independence and to establish diplomatic relations with her in 1947. Turkey was also among the first countries to open a diplomatic mission in India, namely in July 1948. The Agreement on Cultural Affairs and the Treaty of Friendship signed in 1951 between Turkey and India were other milestones in our friendly relations. We have named two streets in Ankara after the great Mahatma Gandhiji and Rabindranath Tagore, while in Delhi, the road right outside the residence of the Honourable Prime Minister of India is named after our founding father, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. Both countries are rising stars in their respective regions with their growing economies and increasing role in the international arena. Naturally, it is a fundamental goal for Turkey to further develop and deepen relations with India, and we are pleased to acknowledge similar sentiments from the Indian side. There is significant potential for further cooperation in key areas such as commerce, trade, investments, culture, tourism, and science. We can further cooperate bilaterally and in international fora on numerous regional and global issues. In spite of all these facts, I believe our current relations, especially the economic and commercial ones, are far from reflecting the real potential of our respective countries. There is a great room for further enhancing Turkish-Indian cooperation in almost every field. While we may have differences on certain issues, which is very normal in international relations, we should not allow these to hold hostage the development of our ties. We should focus on our positive agenda as well as common grounds and interests. In short, Turkey and India would benefit from improving comprehensive bilateral relations in all fields. Sidhant Sibal: Since your arrival, we have seen positive developments. This includes Turkey sending assistance to India, which interestingly had Rumi quotes. What next is being planned in the ties? Fırat Sunel: We have an expression in Turkey: "iyi dost kara günde belli olur" (it’s like: a friend in need is a friend indeed). While the COVID-19 pandemic has swept across the world, India was unfortunately one of the countries most adversely affected during the second wave. And as a friend of India, Turkey couldn’t have stayed idle while India was dealing with the adversities of the pandemic. We sent medical assistance of approximately 45 tonnes on board two A400M military cargo aircraft to support the Indian people, and what better way to express this than with Rumi’s message of hope and optimism. This message of Rumi ("After hopelessness, there is so much hope and after darkness, there is a much brighter sun") has special relevance here because Sufism is a part of our common cultural values we have been sharing for centuries. Turkey puts humans at the centre of its foreign policy. Therefore, we have tried to share our sincere feelings with the people of India on many occasions, such as disasters, terrorist acts, etc. through statements by our Foreign Ministry as well as the Embassy. Showing solidarity with friends in difficult times is our culture, as it is in India. Some people may think that I exaggerate a bit, but it is true: Turkish people still appreciate the contribution of people from British India to Turkey in her liberation war, which later inspired India in her independence struggle against imperialist powers. Back to the first part of your question: Indeed, this year marked some positive developments in our bilateral relations. For instance, Foreign Ministers His Excellency Jaishankar and His Excellency Çavuşoğlu met in Dushanbe on the margins of the Heart of Asia conference on Afghanistan in March, which was the first such interaction in more than a year. I sincerely hope we can soon resume high-level bilateral visits. Next year, Turkey and India will celebrate the 75th anniversary of the establishment of their diplomatic ties. I firmly believe that this will mark a great occasion for the enhancement of our relations. Sidhant Sibal: Any way both sides are planning to increase people-to-people ties, in a post-pandemic world? Fırat Sunel: Ties between the peoples of Turkey and India are based on solid foundations. The strong connection between our people was manifested many times in our history by the deep-rooted fellowship and affection. I strongly believe that building people-to-people ties would support the enhancement of relations between states. In this sense, cultural relations will be a priority. We have so many similarities. Turks like to watch Bollywood movies and Indians like watching Turkish series. Turks are very interested in Indian culture and they really have very warm feelings towards Indians. Indians visiting Turkey notice what I say. We have many areas to cooperate in, from literature to cinema. Tourism relations is also another area that we could improve. I think collaboration in these fields will allow us to overcome any prejudices. In my tenure, I will certainly put special focus on these areas. I hope, in light of the recent updated quarantine regulations for passengers from India to Turkey, more Indian tourists will benefit from the beauty of Turkey and the hospitality of the Turkish people. Sidhant Sibal: When it comes to Afghanistan, what is Turkey's way forward? Turkey has been playing a key role in the country. Will Turkey recognise any Taliban-led government in Kabul? Fırat Sunel: The evil terrorist attack at the Hamid Karzai International Airport on August 26th, which we all condemned in the strongest term, made it clear once again that the full restoration of security and civil order and the overall protection of human life and property are of utmost importance. Stability is the most urgent need in Afghanistan and we believe that only inclusive approaches can pave the way to this end. Turkey monitors closely the developments in Afghanistan and follows the talks between the parties carefully. We keep in contact with various Afghan political figures and are ready to do our best to ensure the security and wellbeing of the Afghan people. We maintain our diplomatic presence in the country and continuously update our plans according to developments regarding the security situation. The Turkish Embassy in Kabul remains open and our Ambassador implements his duties without any interruption. On the other hand, recognising any government in Afghanistan is an issue which should be considered in light of various factors, such as its approach to fundamental rights and its inclusiveness. Sidhant Sibal: How do you see India's role in Afghanistan? Fırat Sunel: We welcome the statement from the Ministry of External Affairs announcing the first official talks in Doha with the Taliban. Engagements with all stakeholders are important. We believe that steady and gradual engagement with the Taliban is one of the key factors for the stability in Afghanistan. The situation in Afghanistan will have a direct impact on India. As a country that has contributed USD 3 billion so far to the stability and security of Afghanistan, and as a non-permanent member of the UNSC, India can play an active role in this regard. Sidhant Sibal: Any way, both countries, India and Turkey, are coordinating on Afghanistan. Fırat Sunel: The instability and security gaps or risks can directly affect our respective countries adversely, although none of us has common borders with Afghanistan. Therefore, maintaining peace and stability in Afghanistan is in the vital interests of both countries. Our relevant authorities already collaborated during the air evacuation operations after August 15th at Kabul airport. Turkey and India have made an immense contribution to Afghanistan during the last 20 years. We should continue helping Afghanistan to recover from years of conflict and strife.

Turkish Envoy Firat Sunel bats for furthering Ankara-Delhi ties; calls it a 'fundamental goal'

The Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) has approved Biological E for two clinical trials of its COVID-19 vaccine candidate Corbevax, according to an official notification from the ministry of science and technology on September 3.

After a subject expert committee reviewed Phase 1 and 2 clinical trial data, the Hyderabad-based pharmaceutical company gained approval for a Phase 3 comparative safety and immunogenicity trial in adults.

The DBT and BIRAC, according to the ministry, have sponsored Corbevax, an RBD protein subunit vaccine, through preclinical to Phase 3 clinical trials.&nbsp;

Biological E's vaccine candidate has also received funding backing from the National Biopharma Mission, BIRAC, under the COVID-19 Research Consortia.

"This vaccine candidate has received financial support under COVID-19 Research Consortia through the National Biopharma Mission, BIRAC, in addition to getting financial help under Mission COVID Suraksha," according to the official statement.&nbsp;

Six vaccinations have been approved for use in the country, but only 11.28 percent of the population has been properly vaccinated, according to data from Johns Hopkins.

The Covid-19 shots for adults, created by Bharat Biotech and Zydus Cadila, are among them.

Late in August, India approved Cadila's Covid-19 vaccine, the world's first DNA coronavirus vaccine, for emergency use in children aged 12 and up.

A late-stage trial of Biological E's coronavirus vaccination in adults is currently underway.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) has approved Biological E for two clinical trials of its COVID-19 vaccine candidate Corbevax, according to an official notification from the ministry of science and technology on September 3.

The Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) has approved Biological E for two clinical trials of its COVID-19 vaccine candidate Corbevax, according to an official notification from the ministry of science and technology on September 3. After a subject expert committee reviewed Phase 1 and 2 clinical trial data, the Hyderabad-based pharmaceutical company gained approval for a Phase 3 comparative safety and immunogenicity trial in adults. The DBT and BIRAC, according to the ministry, have sponsored Corbevax, an RBD protein subunit vaccine, through preclinical to Phase 3 clinical trials. Biological E's vaccine candidate has also received funding backing from the National Biopharma Mission, BIRAC, under the COVID-19 Research Consortia. "This vaccine candidate has received financial support under COVID-19 Research Consortia through the National Biopharma Mission, BIRAC, in addition to getting financial help under Mission COVID Suraksha," according to the official statement. Six vaccinations have been approved for use in the country, but only 11.28 percent of the population has been properly vaccinated, according to data from Johns Hopkins. The Covid-19 shots for adults, created by Bharat Biotech and Zydus Cadila, are among them. Late in August, India approved Cadila's Covid-19 vaccine, the world's first DNA coronavirus vaccine, for emergency use in children aged 12 and up. A late-stage trial of Biological E's coronavirus vaccination in adults is currently underway. (With inputs from agencies)

Government gives Biological E nod to study its Covid vaccine Corbevax in children, teens

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the 6th Eastern Economic Forum. He said that India will be a reliable partner of Moscow in realising its vision in developing the country's Far East region.

6th Eastern Economic Forum: 'India will be a reliable partner of Russia', says PM Modi

New Delhi, Sep 3 (IANS) A big fan of Mahendra Singh Dhoni, Rajasthan Royals` talented youngster Anuj Rawat, who had met the Indian legend during the first phase of IPL 2021 in Mumbai, on Friday disclosed about the valuable tips he got from the former Indian skipper.
 
"I`ve been fortunate enough to have spoken to him a couple of times. This time I just asked him about what he meant when he said in an interview that an athlete should be honest with him/herself, to which he replied by saying that an athlete should be honest with himself in terms of knowing what he`s doing right and what he`s doing wrong. 
"In essence, it meant that if you are feeling lazy one day and skip a training session, then you should know that it`s wrong, and that you`re the one who`s responsible for cheating your body," Anuj said in a statement. 
The young wicketkeeper-batsman made his debut in the IPL earlier this year. The 21-year-old played a crucial role on the field for Rajasthan with three outstanding catches in their 55-run victory over Sunrisers Hyderabad, and along with spending time with his family and friends in his hometown, Anuj is now gearing up for a big rendition in the UAE. 
"I was really happy that I could make my IPL debut for the Royals. It was unfortunate that the season was postponed but given our current position in terms of being fifth on the table, I think it puts us in good stead with respect to the resumption in the UAE," expressed the youngster who represents Delhi in domestic cricket. 
"Remembering that some of our players had to depart and some were unavailable for most part of the competition, I believe it was a good overall performance from our team, and we are really confident of making the most of the next seven matches and give ourselves the best chance of making it to the playoffs," he added. 
Recollecting what led him to his debut, Anuj said persisting with full focus and energy in practice sessions paid dividends. "I just had one thing in my mind, to give my hundred per cent. I was putting in a lot of hard work in the practice sessions. I had confidence in myself, and deep down, I had a feeling that I`ll get my chance when we go to the Delhi-leg of our matches because it`s my home stadium and I am well accustomed to those conditions. 
"When Sanga told me that I would be starting, it felt nice, and I was really motivated to go out there and do my best for the team. Now I`m looking forward to doing the same things again in the UAE, and help the team in whatever way I can, whether it`s on the field or with the bat," added the talented youngster who also believes that "the wickets in UAE really suit his batting, having experienced the conditions with the Royals in 2020."--IANS 
cs/akm

New Delhi, Sep 3 (IANS) A big fan of Mahendra Singh Dhoni, Rajasthan Royals` talented youngster Anuj Rawat, who had met the Indian legend during the first phase of IPL 2021 in Mumbai, on Friday disclosed about the valuable tips he got from the former Indian skipper.

New Delhi, Sep 3 (IANS) A big fan of Mahendra Singh Dhoni, Rajasthan Royals` talented youngster Anuj Rawat, who had met the Indian legend during the first phase of IPL 2021 in Mumbai, on Friday disclosed about the valuable tips he got from the former Indian skipper. "I`ve been fortunate enough to have spoken to him a couple of times. This time I just asked him about what he meant when he said in an interview that an athlete should be honest with him/herself, to which he replied by saying that an athlete should be honest with himself in terms of knowing what he`s doing right and what he`s doing wrong. "In essence, it meant that if you are feeling lazy one day and skip a training session, then you should know that it`s wrong, and that you`re the one who`s responsible for cheating your body," Anuj said in a statement. The young wicketkeeper-batsman made his debut in the IPL earlier this year. The 21-year-old played a crucial role on the field for Rajasthan with three outstanding catches in their 55-run victory over Sunrisers Hyderabad, and along with spending time with his family and friends in his hometown, Anuj is now gearing up for a big rendition in the UAE. "I was really happy that I could make my IPL debut for the Royals. It was unfortunate that the season was postponed but given our current position in terms of being fifth on the table, I think it puts us in good stead with respect to the resumption in the UAE," expressed the youngster who represents Delhi in domestic cricket. "Remembering that some of our players had to depart and some were unavailable for most part of the competition, I believe it was a good overall performance from our team, and we are really confident of making the most of the next seven matches and give ourselves the best chance of making it to the playoffs," he added. Recollecting what led him to his debut, Anuj said persisting with full focus and energy in practice sessions paid dividends. "I just had one thing in my mind, to give my hundred per cent. I was putting in a lot of hard work in the practice sessions. I had confidence in myself, and deep down, I had a feeling that I`ll get my chance when we go to the Delhi-leg of our matches because it`s my home stadium and I am well accustomed to those conditions. "When Sanga told me that I would be starting, it felt nice, and I was really motivated to go out there and do my best for the team. Now I`m looking forward to doing the same things again in the UAE, and help the team in whatever way I can, whether it`s on the field or with the bat," added the talented youngster who also believes that "the wickets in UAE really suit his batting, having experienced the conditions with the Royals in 2020."--IANS cs/akm

I''ve been fortunate enough to have spoken to Dhoni a couple of times: Anuj Rawat

Underscoring the importance of bilateral ties with Russia, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said that India will be a reliable partner of Moscow&nbsp;in realising its vision in developing the country's Far East region.

Speaking at the Eastern Economic Forum, PM Modi&nbsp;said, "I am delighted to address Eastern Economic Forum and thank

President Vladimir Putin&nbsp;for this honour." While recalling his 2019 visit to Vladivostok, PM Modi praised Putin's vision for the development of the Russian Far East.

"In Indian history and civilisation, 'sangam' has a special meaning. It means confluence or coming together of rivers, people and ideas. In my view, Vladivostok is truly a 'sangam' of Eurasia and Pacific," he said.

During a 2019 visit to the Far Eastern port city of Vladivostok, PM Modi had announced that New Delhi would provide a USD 1 billion loan to aid the region's economic development. He had also signed a memorandum to establish a direct maritime corridor between Chennai and Vladivostok.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mysterious-tunnel-from-british-era-discovered-at-legislative-assembly-of-indias-capital-410399">Also read |&nbsp;Mysterious tunnel from British-era discovered at Legislative Assembly of India's capital</a>

"I applaud President Putin's vision for the development of the Russian Far East. India will be a reliable partner for Russia in realising this vision. In 2019, when I had visited Vladivostok to attend the forum, I had announced India's commitment to enact Far East Policy," said PM Modi.

During his brief speech, Prime Minister announced that India's biggest shipyards will partner with Zvezda for the construction of some of the most important commercial ships in the world.

"Today I'm delighted that one of India's biggest shipyards, Mazagon docks limited will partner with Zvezda for the construction of some of the most important commercial ships in the world," he said.

PM Modi emphasised the importance of the bilateral relationship and said the India-Russia energy partnership can help bring stability to the global energy market. "India-Russia energy partnership can help bring stability to the global energy market. My Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Hardeep Puri is in Vladivostok to represent India at this forum," he said.

"India has a talented and dedicated workforce, while the Far East is rich in resources. So, there is tremendous scope for Indian talent to contribute to the development of the Russian Far East," he added.

PM Modi even extended an invite for the Governors of 11 regions of the Russian Far East to visit India. Earlier this year, Foreign Secretary Harsh Shringla met Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and other senior officials in Moscow. During his visit, he had said that one of the primary aims of his trip was to discuss bolstering economic cooperation in the Russian Far East.

Underscoring the importance of bilateral ties with Russia, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said that India will be a reliable partner of Moscow in realising its vision in developing the country's Far East region.

Underscoring the importance of bilateral ties with Russia, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said that India will be a reliable partner of Moscow in realising its vision in developing the country's Far East region. Speaking at the Eastern Economic Forum, PM Modi said, "I am delighted to address Eastern Economic Forum and thank President Vladimir Putin for this honour." While recalling his 2019 visit to Vladivostok, PM Modi praised Putin's vision for the development of the Russian Far East. "In Indian history and civilisation, 'sangam' has a special meaning. It means confluence or coming together of rivers, people and ideas. In my view, Vladivostok is truly a 'sangam' of Eurasia and Pacific," he said. During a 2019 visit to the Far Eastern port city of Vladivostok, PM Modi had announced that New Delhi would provide a USD 1 billion loan to aid the region's economic development. He had also signed a memorandum to establish a direct maritime corridor between Chennai and Vladivostok. Also read | Mysterious tunnel from British-era discovered at Legislative Assembly of India's capital "I applaud President Putin's vision for the development of the Russian Far East. India will be a reliable partner for Russia in realising this vision. In 2019, when I had visited Vladivostok to attend the forum, I had announced India's commitment to enact Far East Policy," said PM Modi. During his brief speech, Prime Minister announced that India's biggest shipyards will partner with Zvezda for the construction of some of the most important commercial ships in the world. "Today I'm delighted that one of India's biggest shipyards, Mazagon docks limited will partner with Zvezda for the construction of some of the most important commercial ships in the world," he said. PM Modi emphasised the importance of the bilateral relationship and said the India-Russia energy partnership can help bring stability to the global energy market. "India-Russia energy partnership can help bring stability to the global energy market. My Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Hardeep Puri is in Vladivostok to represent India at this forum," he said. "India has a talented and dedicated workforce, while the Far East is rich in resources. So, there is tremendous scope for Indian talent to contribute to the development of the Russian Far East," he added. PM Modi even extended an invite for the Governors of 11 regions of the Russian Far East to visit India. Earlier this year, Foreign Secretary Harsh Shringla met Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and other senior officials in Moscow. During his visit, he had said that one of the primary aims of his trip was to discuss bolstering economic cooperation in the Russian Far East.

India will be reliable partner of Russia in developing its Far East region: PM Modi

With 45,352 people testing positive for coronavirus, India''s total tally of COVID-19 cases rose to 3,29,03,289, while active cases registered an increase for the third consecutive day, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Friday.

The death toll climbed to 4,39,895 with 366 fresh fatalities, according to the data updated at 8 am.

The active cases increased to 3,99,778 comprising 1.22 per cent of the total infections, while the national COVID-19 recovery rate was recorded at 97.45 per cent, the ministry said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/visas-of-foreigners-stuck-in-india-extended-till-september-end-centre-410404" hreflang="en">Visas of foreigners stuck in India extended till September end: Centre</a>

An increase of 10,195 cases has been recorded in the active COVID-19 caseload in a span of 24 hours.

As many as 16,66,334 &nbsp;tests were conducted on Thursday taking the total cumulative tests conducted so far for detection of COVID-19 in the country to 52,65,35,068.

The daily positivity rate was recorded &nbsp;2.72 per cent and the weekly positivity rate was recorded at 2.66 per cent. It has been below three per cent for the last 70 days, according to the ministry.

The number of people who have recuperated from the disease surged to 3,20,63,616, while the case fatality rate stands at 1.34 per cent, the data stated.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-interests-come-before-vaccine-exports-health-ministry-410265" hreflang="en">India's interests come before vaccine exports: Health ministry</a>

A total of 67.09 crore vaccine doses have been administered so far under the nationwide vaccination drive.

India''s COVID-19 tally had crossed the 20-lakh mark on August 7, 2020, 30 lakh on August 23, 40 lakh on September 5 and 50 lakh on September 16. It went past 60 lakh on September 28, 70 lakh on October 11, crossed 80 lakh on October 29, 90 lakh on November 20 and surpassed the one-crore mark on December 19.&nbsp;

India crossed the grim milestone of two crore on May 4 and three crore on June 23.

The 366 new fatalities include 188 from Kerala, and 55 from Maharashtra.A total of 4,39,895 deaths have been reported so far in the country including 1,37,551 from Maharashtra, 37,361 from Karnataka, 34,961 from Tamil Nadu, 25,082 from Delhi, 22,841 from Uttar Pradesh, 21,149 from Kerala and 18,472 from West Bengal.

The ministry stressed that more than 70 per cent of the deaths occurred due to comorbidities.

"Our figures are being reconciled with the Indian Council of Medical Research," the ministry said on its website, adding that state-wise distribution of figures is subject to further verification and reconciliation.

With 45,352 people testing positive for coronavirus, India''s total tally of COVID-19 cases rose to 3,29,03,289, while active cases registered an increase for the third consecutive day, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Friday.

With 45,352 people testing positive for coronavirus, India''s total tally of COVID-19 cases rose to 3,29,03,289, while active cases registered an increase for the third consecutive day, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Friday. The death toll climbed to 4,39,895 with 366 fresh fatalities, according to the data updated at 8 am. The active cases increased to 3,99,778 comprising 1.22 per cent of the total infections, while the national COVID-19 recovery rate was recorded at 97.45 per cent, the ministry said. Also read | Visas of foreigners stuck in India extended till September end: Centre An increase of 10,195 cases has been recorded in the active COVID-19 caseload in a span of 24 hours. As many as 16,66,334 tests were conducted on Thursday taking the total cumulative tests conducted so far for detection of COVID-19 in the country to 52,65,35,068. The daily positivity rate was recorded 2.72 per cent and the weekly positivity rate was recorded at 2.66 per cent. It has been below three per cent for the last 70 days, according to the ministry. The number of people who have recuperated from the disease surged to 3,20,63,616, while the case fatality rate stands at 1.34 per cent, the data stated. Also read | India's interests come before vaccine exports: Health ministry A total of 67.09 crore vaccine doses have been administered so far under the nationwide vaccination drive. India''s COVID-19 tally had crossed the 20-lakh mark on August 7, 2020, 30 lakh on August 23, 40 lakh on September 5 and 50 lakh on September 16. It went past 60 lakh on September 28, 70 lakh on October 11, crossed 80 lakh on October 29, 90 lakh on November 20 and surpassed the one-crore mark on December 19. India crossed the grim milestone of two crore on May 4 and three crore on June 23. The 366 new fatalities include 188 from Kerala, and 55 from Maharashtra.A total of 4,39,895 deaths have been reported so far in the country including 1,37,551 from Maharashtra, 37,361 from Karnataka, 34,961 from Tamil Nadu, 25,082 from Delhi, 22,841 from Uttar Pradesh, 21,149 from Kerala and 18,472 from West Bengal. The ministry stressed that more than 70 per cent of the deaths occurred due to comorbidities. "Our figures are being reconciled with the Indian Council of Medical Research," the ministry said on its website, adding that state-wise distribution of figures is subject to further verification and reconciliation.

COVID-19: India reports 45,352 new cases, 366 fresh fatalities

The Central government has announced the extension of visas for all foreign nationals stranded in the country due to the ongoing pandemic till 31 September.&nbsp;

They will not be required to submit an application to FRRO/FRO concerned for visa extension.

The decision comes after a number of foreigners who came to India on various types of visas prior to March 2020 got stranded in the country in the absence of flights to their destinations due to COVID-19.

In a statement, the Union Ministry of Home Affairs said, "Due to the situation arising out of COVID-19 pandemic, a number of foreigners who had come to India on various types of visas prior to March, 2020 got stranded in the country in the absence of flights to their destinations. The Central Government had facilitated the stay of such foreign nationals within India by giving deemed extension of their regular visa or e-visa or stay stipulation period on gratis basis without levy of any overstay penalty.

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This facility which is presently available till August 31, 2021 has now been extended by the Central Government till September 30, 2021".

The government further added that if someone wanted visa extension beyond 30 September, they may apply on the online e-FRRO platform on a payment basis.&nbsp;

This would be considered by the authorities, subject to the eligibility as per the extant guidelines.

"Before exiting, they may apply online for exit permission on e-FRRO portal, which would be granted by FRRO/FRO concerned on gratis basis without levy of overstay penalty," the MHA statement read.

The Central government has announced the extension of visas for all foreign nationals stranded in the country due to the ongoing pandemic till 31 September. They will not be required to submit an application to FRRO/FRO concerned for visa extension.

The Central government has announced the extension of visas for all foreign nationals stranded in the country due to the ongoing pandemic till 31 September. They will not be required to submit an application to FRRO/FRO concerned for visa extension. The decision comes after a number of foreigners who came to India on various types of visas prior to March 2020 got stranded in the country in the absence of flights to their destinations due to COVID-19. In a statement, the Union Ministry of Home Affairs said, "Due to the situation arising out of COVID-19 pandemic, a number of foreigners who had come to India on various types of visas prior to March, 2020 got stranded in the country in the absence of flights to their destinations. The Central Government had facilitated the stay of such foreign nationals within India by giving deemed extension of their regular visa or e-visa or stay stipulation period on gratis basis without levy of any overstay penalty. Also read | Jacinda Ardern calls New Zealand stabbing 'terrorist attack'; suspect shot dead This facility which is presently available till August 31, 2021 has now been extended by the Central Government till September 30, 2021". The government further added that if someone wanted visa extension beyond 30 September, they may apply on the online e-FRRO platform on a payment basis. This would be considered by the authorities, subject to the eligibility as per the extant guidelines. "Before exiting, they may apply online for exit permission on e-FRRO portal, which would be granted by FRRO/FRO concerned on gratis basis without levy of overstay penalty," the MHA statement read.

Visas of foreigners stuck in India extended till September end: Centre

Ahead of the 2+2 dialogue later this month, senior officials from both India and the US exchanged views on a range of regional issues of shared interest and discussed new opportunities to strengthen multilateral cooperation between the two countries, the Pentagon said on Thursday.

During the meeting held on Wednesday at the Joint Secretary level, the officials exchanged views on a range of regional issues of shared interest, including in South Asia, East and Southeast Asia, and the Western Indian Ocean, and identified opportunities for enhanced cooperation on maritime security, regional connectivity, counterterrorism, and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.

The fifth US-India 2+2 Intercessional Dialogue was co-chaired by Assistant Secretary of Defence for Indo-Pacific Affairs, Dr&nbsp;Ely Ratner, along with Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs, Ervin Massinga, and Joint Secretary Somnath Ghosh of the Indian Defence Ministry, and Joint Secretary Vani Rao of the Indian Ministry of External Affairs.

"The Dialogue spanned the US–India comprehensive global strategic partnership, including climate, public health, defence, trade, technology, and governance," said Defence Department Spokesperson Lt. Col. Martin Meiners in a readout of the call.

With several defence enabling agreements in place, officials are committed to driving greater interoperability between the US and Indian militaries, he said.

They also discussed bilateral and multilateral joint service engagements, as well as ways to advance cooperation in new domains, such as space, cyber, and emerging technology areas.

Discussions also drove progress toward operationalising key bilateral initiatives on information-sharing, logistics, defence industrial cooperation, and joint doctrine engagement through liaison exchanges, Meiners said.

"Building on growing bilateral ties, US and Indian officials discussed new opportunities to strengthen multilateral cooperation between the United States, India, and other like-minded partners," he said.

The Intercessional laid the groundwork for a fruitful 2 + 2 Ministerial Dialogue in the coming months, as the United States and India work together to sustain a free, open, inclusive, and prosperous Indo-Pacific region.

Ahead of the 2+2 dialogue later this month, senior officials from both India and the US exchanged views on a range of regional issues of shared interest and discussed new opportunities to strengthen multilateral cooperation between the two countries, the Pentagon said on Thursday.

Ahead of the 2+2 dialogue later this month, senior officials from both India and the US exchanged views on a range of regional issues of shared interest and discussed new opportunities to strengthen multilateral cooperation between the two countries, the Pentagon said on Thursday. During the meeting held on Wednesday at the Joint Secretary level, the officials exchanged views on a range of regional issues of shared interest, including in South Asia, East and Southeast Asia, and the Western Indian Ocean, and identified opportunities for enhanced cooperation on maritime security, regional connectivity, counterterrorism, and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. The fifth US-India 2+2 Intercessional Dialogue was co-chaired by Assistant Secretary of Defence for Indo-Pacific Affairs, Dr Ely Ratner, along with Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs, Ervin Massinga, and Joint Secretary Somnath Ghosh of the Indian Defence Ministry, and Joint Secretary Vani Rao of the Indian Ministry of External Affairs. "The Dialogue spanned the US–India comprehensive global strategic partnership, including climate, public health, defence, trade, technology, and governance," said Defence Department Spokesperson Lt. Col. Martin Meiners in a readout of the call. With several defence enabling agreements in place, officials are committed to driving greater interoperability between the US and Indian militaries, he said. They also discussed bilateral and multilateral joint service engagements, as well as ways to advance cooperation in new domains, such as space, cyber, and emerging technology areas. Discussions also drove progress toward operationalising key bilateral initiatives on information-sharing, logistics, defence industrial cooperation, and joint doctrine engagement through liaison exchanges, Meiners said. "Building on growing bilateral ties, US and Indian officials discussed new opportunities to strengthen multilateral cooperation between the United States, India, and other like-minded partners," he said. The Intercessional laid the groundwork for a fruitful 2 + 2 Ministerial Dialogue in the coming months, as the United States and India work together to sustain a free, open, inclusive, and prosperous Indo-Pacific region.

India and US officials discuss bilateral and regional issues ahead of the 2+2 dialogue

India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar and Iran's new foreign minister Amir Abdollahian on Wednesday held talks&nbsp;with top focus on the Afghanistan situation and the Chabahar port project.

It&nbsp;was the first-ever call between the two&nbsp;since the new Iran foreign minister took charge. During the meeting, the&nbsp;EAM congratulated him on his appointment as Iran’s foreign minister.

On Afghanistan, both&nbsp;sides agreed to continue consultations with the Iranian readout saying that FM Amir reiterated Tehran's "principled policy to support the formation of an inclusive government in Afghanistan" which is "made up of all Afghan ethnic groups". He also emphasised on a regional approach to "defuse the crisis in Afghanistan."

A tweet statement by EAM said that India, "Appreciate Iran's facilitation of our repatriation flights from Afghanistan."

India in September had evacuated more than 500 people after the fall of Kabul to the Taliban. During the evacuation process, India had coordinated with many counties including Iran, US, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan and&nbsp;Oman.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
A warm congratulatory call to Iranian FM <a href="https://twitter.com/Amirabdolahian?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Amirabdolahian</a>. 
 
Agreed to strengthen our bilateral cooperation. Discussed pressing regional issues. 
 
Appreciate Iran's facilitation of our repatriation flights from Afghanistan.
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1433104965862494214?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 1, 2021</a></blockquote>
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On Chabahar, Iran's FM called for "speeding up the Chabahar project and expanding trade with India."

Chabahar port is key to India's connectivity to its West as it provides&nbsp;links to Afghanistan and central Asia&nbsp;and is a key to the international north-south transport corridor connecting Mumbai to Moscow.&nbsp;

Discussions were also held on vaccines. India had sent a consignment of COVAX to Iran as its dealt with the Covid&nbsp;crisis&nbsp;while Iran had sent assistance to India during the second wave of the coronavirus outbreak&nbsp;earlier this year.&nbsp;

Last month, Jaishankar had represented India at the oath-taking ceremony of the new Iran President Ebrahim Raisi. It&nbsp;was the second&nbsp;visit of the EAM in a matter of two&nbsp;months to Iran&nbsp;given that in July he had made a stopover in Tehran and called on Ebrahim Raisi.&nbsp;

India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar and Iran's new foreign minister Amir Abdollahian on Wednesday held talks with top focus on the Afghanistan situation and the Chabahar port project.

India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar and Iran's new foreign minister Amir Abdollahian on Wednesday held talks with top focus on the Afghanistan situation and the Chabahar port project. It was the first-ever call between the two since the new Iran foreign minister took charge. During the meeting, the EAM congratulated him on his appointment as Iran’s foreign minister. On Afghanistan, both sides agreed to continue consultations with the Iranian readout saying that FM Amir reiterated Tehran's "principled policy to support the formation of an inclusive government in Afghanistan" which is "made up of all Afghan ethnic groups". He also emphasised on a regional approach to "defuse the crisis in Afghanistan." A tweet statement by EAM said that India, "Appreciate Iran's facilitation of our repatriation flights from Afghanistan." India in September had evacuated more than 500 people after the fall of Kabul to the Taliban. During the evacuation process, India had coordinated with many counties including Iran, US, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan and Oman. A warm congratulatory call to Iranian FM @Amirabdolahian. Agreed to strengthen our bilateral cooperation. Discussed pressing regional issues. Appreciate Iran's facilitation of our repatriation flights from Afghanistan. — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) September 1, 2021 × On Chabahar, Iran's FM called for "speeding up the Chabahar project and expanding trade with India." Chabahar port is key to India's connectivity to its West as it provides links to Afghanistan and central Asia and is a key to the international north-south transport corridor connecting Mumbai to Moscow. Discussions were also held on vaccines. India had sent a consignment of COVAX to Iran as its dealt with the Covid crisis while Iran had sent assistance to India during the second wave of the coronavirus outbreak earlier this year. Last month, Jaishankar had represented India at the oath-taking ceremony of the new Iran President Ebrahim Raisi. It was the second visit of the EAM in a matter of two months to Iran given that in July he had made a stopover in Tehran and called on Ebrahim Raisi.

In first call, new Iran foreign minister, EAM discuss Afghanistan, Chabahar

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