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Many news organisations have reported that, three anonymous Urdu-speaking men barged into an office of a travel agency in Kabul issuing Indian visas on behalf of the Indian mission in Afghanistan and took an unknown number of Afghan passports with stamped Indian visas, putting Indian security officials on high alert.&nbsp;

On August 15, the day the Taliban gained control of Kabul and Afghanistan, the incident occurred.&nbsp;

For the facilitation of Indian visas for Afghan nationals, the private travel firm collaborates with the Indian embassy in Kabul.&nbsp;

According to sources, the travel firm currently has hundreds of passports missing, including ones with Indian visas stamped on them.&nbsp;

The news comes as India begins a huge evacuation campaign in Kabul, with the Indian Air Force and Air India working closely with Indian diplomats and security agencies to ensure the safe and secure evacuation of Indian people and other threatened groups. &nbsp;

In light of the stolen visa information, the Ministry of Home Affairs issued a statement stating that all visas previously given to Afghan nationals outside of India had been cancelled with immediate effect.&nbsp;

“Owing to the prevailing security situation in Afghanistan and streamlining of the visa process by introduction of the e-Emergency X-Misc visa, it has been decided that all Afghan nationals henceforth must travel to India only on e-Visa,” Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) said in a statement.

“Keeping in view some reports that certain passports of Afghan nationals have been misplaced, previously issued visas to all Afghan nationals, who are presently not in India, stand invalidated with immediate effect. Afghan nationals wishing to travel to India may apply for e-Visa at www.indianvisaonline.gov.in," the statement further said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Many news organisations have reported that, three anonymous Urdu-speaking men barged into an office of a travel agency in Kabul issuing Indian visas on behalf of the Indian mission in Afghanistan and took an unknown number of Afghan passports with stamped Indian visas, putting Indian security officials on high alert.

Many news organisations have reported that, three anonymous Urdu-speaking men barged into an office of a travel agency in Kabul issuing Indian visas on behalf of the Indian mission in Afghanistan and took an unknown number of Afghan passports with stamped Indian visas, putting Indian security officials on high alert. On August 15, the day the Taliban gained control of Kabul and Afghanistan, the incident occurred. For the facilitation of Indian visas for Afghan nationals, the private travel firm collaborates with the Indian embassy in Kabul. According to sources, the travel firm currently has hundreds of passports missing, including ones with Indian visas stamped on them. The news comes as India begins a huge evacuation campaign in Kabul, with the Indian Air Force and Air India working closely with Indian diplomats and security agencies to ensure the safe and secure evacuation of Indian people and other threatened groups. In light of the stolen visa information, the Ministry of Home Affairs issued a statement stating that all visas previously given to Afghan nationals outside of India had been cancelled with immediate effect. “Owing to the prevailing security situation in Afghanistan and streamlining of the visa process by introduction of the e-Emergency X-Misc visa, it has been decided that all Afghan nationals henceforth must travel to India only on e-Visa,” Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) said in a statement. “Keeping in view some reports that certain passports of Afghan nationals have been misplaced, previously issued visas to all Afghan nationals, who are presently not in India, stand invalidated with immediate effect. Afghan nationals wishing to travel to India may apply for e-Visa at www.indianvisaonline.gov.in," the statement further said. (With inputs from agencies)

Terrorists backed by Pakistan's ISI stole Afghan passports with Indian visas in Kabul: Reports 

Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya on Wednesday announced that the total number of COVID-19 vaccination doses delivered in the country has topped 600 million (60 crore).&nbsp;

"Under PM @NarendraModi ji's #SabkoVaccineMuftVaccine initiative, India crossed the 60 crore vaccination mark. Congratulations everyone!" he said in a tweet.

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सबका स्वास्थ्य, सबकी सुरक्षा के मंत्र के साथ देश <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> टीकाकरण में आगे बढ़ रहा है। 
 
भारत को पहले : 
 
10 करोड़ टीके लगाने में 85 दिन 
20 करोड़ में 45 दिन 
30 करोड़ में 29 दिन 
40 करोड़ में 24 दिन 
50 करोड़ में 20 दिन 
 
और अब 60 करोड़ टीकाकरण पूर्ण करने में सिर्फ 19 दिन लगे। <a href="https://t.co/DdLt2PtWcT">pic.twitter.com/DdLt2PtWcT</a>
— Mansukh Mandaviya (@mansukhmandviya) <a href="https://twitter.com/mansukhmandviya/status/1430481116884922372?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 25, 2021</a></blockquote>
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It took India 85 days to reach the 100 million mark. The minister stated that it took 45 days to reach the 200 million milestone and another 29 days to reach the 300 million mark.

It took the country 24 days to reach 40 million vaccines from 30 million, and another 20 days to reach 50 million on August 6.

Mandaviya said it required 19 more days to reach the 600 million level.&nbsp;

The total tally of COVID-19 cases increased to 3,25,12,366 and the number of deaths climbed to 4,35,758 with 648 fresh fatalities, according to the data updated at 8 am.

The active cases comprise 0.99 per cent of the total infections.

The national COVID-19 recovery rate was recorded at 97.67 per cent, the ministry said.

An increase of 2,776 cases has been recorded in the active COVID-19 caseload in a span of 24 hours.

(With inputs from agencies)

Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya on Wednesday announced that the total number of COVID-19 vaccination doses delivered in the country has topped 600 million (60 crore).

Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya on Wednesday announced that the total number of COVID-19 vaccination doses delivered in the country has topped 600 million (60 crore). "Under PM @NarendraModi ji's #SabkoVaccineMuftVaccine initiative, India crossed the 60 crore vaccination mark. Congratulations everyone!" he said in a tweet. सबका स्वास्थ्य, सबकी सुरक्षा के मंत्र के साथ देश #COVID19 टीकाकरण में आगे बढ़ रहा है। भारत को पहले : 10 करोड़ टीके लगाने में 85 दिन 20 करोड़ में 45 दिन 30 करोड़ में 29 दिन 40 करोड़ में 24 दिन 50 करोड़ में 20 दिन और अब 60 करोड़ टीकाकरण पूर्ण करने में सिर्फ 19 दिन लगे। pic.twitter.com/DdLt2PtWcT — Mansukh Mandaviya (@mansukhmandviya) August 25, 2021 × It took India 85 days to reach the 100 million mark. The minister stated that it took 45 days to reach the 200 million milestone and another 29 days to reach the 300 million mark. It took the country 24 days to reach 40 million vaccines from 30 million, and another 20 days to reach 50 million on August 6. Mandaviya said it required 19 more days to reach the 600 million level. The total tally of COVID-19 cases increased to 3,25,12,366 and the number of deaths climbed to 4,35,758 with 648 fresh fatalities, according to the data updated at 8 am. The active cases comprise 0.99 per cent of the total infections. The national COVID-19 recovery rate was recorded at 97.67 per cent, the ministry said. An increase of 2,776 cases has been recorded in the active COVID-19 caseload in a span of 24 hours. (With inputs from agencies)

Over 600 million coronavirus vaccine doses administered in India: Govt 

The Indian government has been carrying out evacuations from Afghanistan after the Taliban took control of the country. In one such evacuation flight, the government also brough back three Guru Granth Sahib from Kabul.

India's Union Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs &amp; Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas Hardeep Singh Puri&nbsp;welcomed the holy books on the Delhi airport as the Sikh Sangat carried the holy books out on their head. These books were then taken to Guru Arjan Dev Ji Gurdwara in New Mahavir Nagar, Delhi.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-india-welcomes-three-sikh-holy-books-brought-from-kabul-407965">&nbsp;Watch: India welcomes three Sikh holy books brought from Kabul</a>

"Blessed to receive and pay obeisance to three holy 'Swaroop'&nbsp;of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji from Kabul to Delhi a short while ago," Puri had tweeted. &nbsp;

As of now, nearly 44 Afghan Sikhs have been evacuated from the Taliban controlled country. However, there are nearly 200 more Afghan Sikhs stranded in the country right now, Puneet Singh Chandhok, president of the Indian World Forum told media. These Sikhs have taken shelter at the nearest gurudwara from the airport, i.e., Karte Parwan gurdwara in Kabul.

"I thank the Modi government, the Indian embassy, the Sikh Sangat and the Indian forces for bringing us back to our country safely," said an Afghan Sikh who&nbsp;was evacuated by the Indian government recently.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/sikh-community-thanks-indian-government-for-protecting-three-holy-books-408355">WATCH |</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/sikh-community-thanks-indian-government-for-protecting-three-holy-books-408355/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Remembering the time when he also got stuck in the 1991 Iraq war, the Vice President of the Khalsa Help International said, "I have been a victim of this because even I was rescued by the Indian government in 1991 during the Iraq war. I applaud the Modi government for doing such a noble task. I salute my Sikh brothers, forces and the Indian government for bringing back the Guru Granth Sahib by placing it on their heads. They have respected our Guru and we are highly thankful to them for this."

Speaking on behalf of the Sikh community, he also stressed that the whole community is against the Taliban because the basic values of the community are aligned with helping the human kind, and they will oppose anyone who hurts people.

The Indian government has been carrying out evacuations from Afghanistan after the Taliban took control of the country. In one such evacuation flight, the government also brough back three Guru Granth Sahib from Kabul.

The Indian government has been carrying out evacuations from Afghanistan after the Taliban took control of the country. In one such evacuation flight, the government also brough back three Guru Granth Sahib from Kabul. India's Union Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs & Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas Hardeep Singh Puri welcomed the holy books on the Delhi airport as the Sikh Sangat carried the holy books out on their head. These books were then taken to Guru Arjan Dev Ji Gurdwara in New Mahavir Nagar, Delhi. Also read | Watch: India welcomes three Sikh holy books brought from Kabul "Blessed to receive and pay obeisance to three holy 'Swaroop' of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji from Kabul to Delhi a short while ago," Puri had tweeted. As of now, nearly 44 Afghan Sikhs have been evacuated from the Taliban controlled country. However, there are nearly 200 more Afghan Sikhs stranded in the country right now, Puneet Singh Chandhok, president of the Indian World Forum told media. These Sikhs have taken shelter at the nearest gurudwara from the airport, i.e., Karte Parwan gurdwara in Kabul. "I thank the Modi government, the Indian embassy, the Sikh Sangat and the Indian forces for bringing us back to our country safely," said an Afghan Sikh who was evacuated by the Indian government recently. WATCH | Remembering the time when he also got stuck in the 1991 Iraq war, the Vice President of the Khalsa Help International said, "I have been a victim of this because even I was rescued by the Indian government in 1991 during the Iraq war. I applaud the Modi government for doing such a noble task. I salute my Sikh brothers, forces and the Indian government for bringing back the Guru Granth Sahib by placing it on their heads. They have respected our Guru and we are highly thankful to them for this." Speaking on behalf of the Sikh community, he also stressed that the whole community is against the Taliban because the basic values of the community are aligned with helping the human kind, and they will oppose anyone who hurts people.

Sikh community thanks Indian government for bringing back holy books

(Reuters) - Pakistan head coach Misbah-ul-Haq has tested positive for COVID-19 and will return home from Jamaica only after undergoing a 10-day quarantine period, the country`s cricket board (PCB) said on Wednesday. The Pakistan squad were due to depart for Lahore later on Wednesday after their two-match test series against the West Indies, which they drew following a 109-run win over the hosts a day earlier. "Misbah was the only Pakistan squad member who failed two pre-departure PCR tests. All other members will leave Jamaica as per schedule later today (Wednesday)," the PCB said in a statement. "The PCB is constantly in touch with Cricket West Indies who have confirmed that Misbah (who is asymptomatic) will be shifted to another hotel for the 10-day quarantine with a medical specialist assigned to look after his health and wellbeing." (Reporting by Dhruv Munjal in Bengaluru)

(Reuters) - Pakistan head coach Misbah-ul-Haq has tested positive for COVID-19 and will return home from Jamaica only after undergoing a 10-day quarantine period, the country`s cricket board (PCB) said on Wednesday.

(Reuters) - Pakistan head coach Misbah-ul-Haq has tested positive for COVID-19 and will return home from Jamaica only after undergoing a 10-day quarantine period, the country`s cricket board (PCB) said on Wednesday. The Pakistan squad were due to depart for Lahore later on Wednesday after their two-match test series against the West Indies, which they drew following a 109-run win over the hosts a day earlier. "Misbah was the only Pakistan squad member who failed two pre-departure PCR tests. All other members will leave Jamaica as per schedule later today (Wednesday)," the PCB said in a statement. "The PCB is constantly in touch with Cricket West Indies who have confirmed that Misbah (who is asymptomatic) will be shifted to another hotel for the 10-day quarantine with a medical specialist assigned to look after his health and wellbeing." (Reporting by Dhruv Munjal in Bengaluru)

Cricket-Pakistan coach Misbah tests positive for COVID, will stay behind in Jamaica

World Health Organisation (WHO) chief scientist Dr Soumya Swaminathan on Wednesday said the COVID-19 infection in India will likely enter “some kind of stage of endemicity” marked by low or moderate levels of transmission.

The endemic stage is when the infection is present in a certain population or region and the people have learnt to live with it.

On clearance of the Indian-made COVID vaccine Covaxin, Swaminathan said she is “fairly confident” that the WHO's technical group will be satisfied to give the vaccine clearance for one of its authorised vaccines, adding “it could happen by mid-September”.

"We may be entering some kind of stage of endemicity where there is low-level transmission or moderate level transmission going on but we are not seeing the kinds of exponential growth and peaks that we saw a few months ago," Swaminathan was quoted by local media.

“As far as India is concerned that seems to be what is happening and because of size of India and heterogeneity of population and immunity status in different parts of the country in different pockets, it is very very feasible that the situation may continue like this with ups and downs in different parts of the country, particularly where there are more susceptible population, so those groups who were perhaps less affected by first and second waves or those areas with low levels of vaccine coverage we could see peaks and troughs for the next several months," she said.

She also expressed hope of India achieving the targeted vaccine coverage of 70% of the population by the end of 2022.

While speaking on the prevalence of Covid among children, Swaminathan asked parents to remain calm.

“We can take from the serosurvey and what we learnt from other countries also that while it is possible that children could get infected and transmit, children luckily have very mild illness most of the time and there is a small percentage that gets sick and get inflammatory complications and few will die but much much less than the adult population...But it is good to prepare... Preparing hospitals for paediatric admissions, paediatric intensive care is going to serve our health system in many ways for other illnesses children have but we should not panic about thousands of children crowding into ICUs," she said.

On the use of drugs like Remdesivir, Ivermectin or HCQ for treatment of COVID systems, she said there is no evidence of these drugs playing a role in reducing mortality or morbidity in people infected with the virus.

On the third wave, she said no one has a "crystal ball" and it's impossible to predict a third wave.

Meanwhile, India logged 37,593 new coronavirus infections, while the active cases increased marginally to 3,22,327, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Wednesday.

The total tally of COVID-19 cases increased to 3,25,12,366 and the number of deaths climbed to 4,35,758 with 648 fresh fatalities, according to the data.

(With inputs from agencies)

World Health Organisation (WHO) chief scientist Dr Soumya Swaminathan on Wednesday said the COVID-19 infection in India will likely enter “some kind of stage of endemicity” marked by low or moderate levels of transmission.

World Health Organisation (WHO) chief scientist Dr Soumya Swaminathan on Wednesday said the COVID-19 infection in India will likely enter “some kind of stage of endemicity” marked by low or moderate levels of transmission. The endemic stage is when the infection is present in a certain population or region and the people have learnt to live with it. On clearance of the Indian-made COVID vaccine Covaxin, Swaminathan said she is “fairly confident” that the WHO's technical group will be satisfied to give the vaccine clearance for one of its authorised vaccines, adding “it could happen by mid-September”. "We may be entering some kind of stage of endemicity where there is low-level transmission or moderate level transmission going on but we are not seeing the kinds of exponential growth and peaks that we saw a few months ago," Swaminathan was quoted by local media. “As far as India is concerned that seems to be what is happening and because of size of India and heterogeneity of population and immunity status in different parts of the country in different pockets, it is very very feasible that the situation may continue like this with ups and downs in different parts of the country, particularly where there are more susceptible population, so those groups who were perhaps less affected by first and second waves or those areas with low levels of vaccine coverage we could see peaks and troughs for the next several months," she said. She also expressed hope of India achieving the targeted vaccine coverage of 70% of the population by the end of 2022. While speaking on the prevalence of Covid among children, Swaminathan asked parents to remain calm. “We can take from the serosurvey and what we learnt from other countries also that while it is possible that children could get infected and transmit, children luckily have very mild illness most of the time and there is a small percentage that gets sick and get inflammatory complications and few will die but much much less than the adult population...But it is good to prepare... Preparing hospitals for paediatric admissions, paediatric intensive care is going to serve our health system in many ways for other illnesses children have but we should not panic about thousands of children crowding into ICUs," she said. On the use of drugs like Remdesivir, Ivermectin or HCQ for treatment of COVID systems, she said there is no evidence of these drugs playing a role in reducing mortality or morbidity in people infected with the virus. On the third wave, she said no one has a "crystal ball" and it's impossible to predict a third wave. Meanwhile, India logged 37,593 new coronavirus infections, while the active cases increased marginally to 3,22,327, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Wednesday. The total tally of COVID-19 cases increased to 3,25,12,366 and the number of deaths climbed to 4,35,758 with 648 fresh fatalities, according to the data. (With inputs from agencies)

India might be entering endemic stage of COVID-19: WHO chief scientist Swaminathan

In his first comments on Afghanistan, India's Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat has said that "Taliban takeover was anticipated" but the "time line surprised us".

On August 15, Taliban took over the Afghan national capital Kabul as the then Afghan president Ashraf Ghani left the country.&nbsp;

"Everything that has happened was something that was anticipated, only the timelines have changed. From the Indian preceptive, we were anticipating Taliban takeover of Afghanistan. Yes, the timeline certainly surprised us because we were anticipating this thing happening couple of months down the line but it is much the same — the same Taliban which was there 20 years ago."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/all-is-well-in-cyberspace-websites-of-ousted-afghanistan-govt-are-still-up-a-week-after-taliban-takeover-408189" hreflang="en">All is well? Websites of ousted Afghan govt still up despite Taliban takeover</a>

Since then, India has evacuated a large number of its nationals and opened the gates for Afghans, particularly the minority Sikhs and Hindus. Over the weekend, two&nbsp;Afghan Sikh MPs — Anarkali Honaryar and Narendra Singh Khalsa — also reached Delhi even as fears grow if Taiban will respect the minority rights.

The top Indian General highlighted Indian concerns over terror saying, "We were concerned about how terrorist activity from Afghanistan could overflow into India. So to that extend, our contingency planning had been ongoing and we are prepared for it."

As of now, the main worry is that Pakistan-based terror groups such as Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed might establish safe haven in the country under Taliban rule. India has raised the matter at several multilateral meetings including the United Nations and&nbsp;BRICS.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-exclusive-resistance-movement-will-never-die-in-afghanistan-says-ahmad-wali-massoud-408207">WATCH |</a>

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He dismissed any relation between Indo-Pacific and Afghan crisis impacting each other saying, "Indo pacific is on different plane all together. Dealing with Afghanistan, Taliban, terrorism, from that perspective is something which we are all together fighting the global war on terrorism,"&nbsp;explaining that any support from Quad on dealing with terror "will be welcomed".

India, along with US, have been strong supporter of Indo-Pacific vision that sees Indian and Pacific ocean as one construct but China sees this with suspicion.&nbsp;"Indo pacific should not be looked through same prism (as Afghanistan) — they are two&nbsp;different issues. Yes, there is&nbsp;challenge to security in the region, both pose challenge to security, but they are on two different planes and those two parallel lines are unlikely to meet,"&nbsp;Rawat pointed.

In his first comments on Afghanistan, India's Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat has said that "Taliban takeover was anticipated" but the "time line surprised us".

In his first comments on Afghanistan, India's Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat has said that "Taliban takeover was anticipated" but the "time line surprised us". On August 15, Taliban took over the Afghan national capital Kabul as the then Afghan president Ashraf Ghani left the country. "Everything that has happened was something that was anticipated, only the timelines have changed. From the Indian preceptive, we were anticipating Taliban takeover of Afghanistan. Yes, the timeline certainly surprised us because we were anticipating this thing happening couple of months down the line but it is much the same — the same Taliban which was there 20 years ago." Also read | All is well? Websites of ousted Afghan govt still up despite Taliban takeover Since then, India has evacuated a large number of its nationals and opened the gates for Afghans, particularly the minority Sikhs and Hindus. Over the weekend, two Afghan Sikh MPs — Anarkali Honaryar and Narendra Singh Khalsa — also reached Delhi even as fears grow if Taiban will respect the minority rights. The top Indian General highlighted Indian concerns over terror saying, "We were concerned about how terrorist activity from Afghanistan could overflow into India. So to that extend, our contingency planning had been ongoing and we are prepared for it." As of now, the main worry is that Pakistan-based terror groups such as Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed might establish safe haven in the country under Taliban rule. India has raised the matter at several multilateral meetings including the United Nations and BRICS. WATCH | He dismissed any relation between Indo-Pacific and Afghan crisis impacting each other saying, "Indo pacific is on different plane all together. Dealing with Afghanistan, Taliban, terrorism, from that perspective is something which we are all together fighting the global war on terrorism," explaining that any support from Quad on dealing with terror "will be welcomed". India, along with US, have been strong supporter of Indo-Pacific vision that sees Indian and Pacific ocean as one construct but China sees this with suspicion. "Indo pacific should not be looked through same prism (as Afghanistan) — they are two different issues. Yes, there is challenge to security in the region, both pose challenge to security, but they are on two different planes and those two parallel lines are unlikely to meet," Rawat pointed.

Anticipated Taliban takeover but timeline surprised us, says India's Chief of Defence Staff Bipin Rawat

Indian Government has decided to let people, who are fleeing Afghanistan after Taliban’s takeover, enter the country on an e-Visa only. &nbsp;

“Owing to prevailing security situation in Afghanistan, all Afghan nationals, henceforth, must travel to India only on e-Visa,” said spokesperson, Ministry of Home Affairs on Twitter. &nbsp;

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Owing to prevailing security situation in Afghanistan all Afghan nationals henceforth must travel to India only on e-Visa 
 
Press release- <a href="https://t.co/aU2UnZW5Tm">https://t.co/aU2UnZW5Tm</a> <a href="https://t.co/r7Hv6p6qfr">pic.twitter.com/r7Hv6p6qfr</a>
— Spokesperson, Ministry of Home Affairs (@PIBHomeAffairs) <a href="https://twitter.com/PIBHomeAffairs/status/1430418670975479814?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 25, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile, India on Tuesday formally named one of its “complicated” rescue operations of citizens from war-torn Afghanistan, calling it “Operation Devi Shakti.” &nbsp;

Saluting the efforts of the Indian Air Force and Air India, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar made the announcement on Twitter after 78 people were brought to New Delhi via Dushanbe, Tajikistan. &nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;WION ground report from inside Kabul airport

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“Op Devi Shakti continues. 78 evacuees from Kabul arrive via Dushanbe. Salute @IAF_MCC, @AirIndiain and #TeamMEA for their untiring efforts,” Jaishankar tweeted. &nbsp;

India began its rescue mission in coordination with the US, Qatar, Tajikistan and several other friendly countries. On August 16, 40 Indians were airlifted from Kabul, a day after the Taliban seized control of the Afghan capital city. &nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-appoints-ex-guantanamo-detainee-as-acting-defence-minister-report-408211">Taliban appoints ex-Guantanamo detainee as acting defence minister: Report</a>

So far, India has managed to evacuate over 800 people amid deteriorating security situation at Kabul airport. &nbsp;

Thousands of Afghans have been swarming at Kabul airport for the past one week, in a desperate attempt to flee the country fearing the Taliban's rule. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Indian Government has decided to let people, who are fleeing Afghanistan after Taliban’s takeover, enter the country on an e-Visa only. “Owing to prevailing security situation in Afghanistan, all Afghan nationals, henceforth, must travel to India only on e-Visa,” said spokesperson, Ministry of Home Affairs on Twitter.

Indian Government has decided to let people, who are fleeing Afghanistan after Taliban’s takeover, enter the country on an e-Visa only. “Owing to prevailing security situation in Afghanistan, all Afghan nationals, henceforth, must travel to India only on e-Visa,” said spokesperson, Ministry of Home Affairs on Twitter. Owing to prevailing security situation in Afghanistan all Afghan nationals henceforth must travel to India only on e-Visa Press release- https://t.co/aU2UnZW5Tm pic.twitter.com/r7Hv6p6qfr — Spokesperson, Ministry of Home Affairs (@PIBHomeAffairs) August 25, 2021 × Meanwhile, India on Tuesday formally named one of its “complicated” rescue operations of citizens from war-torn Afghanistan, calling it “Operation Devi Shakti.” Saluting the efforts of the Indian Air Force and Air India, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar made the announcement on Twitter after 78 people were brought to New Delhi via Dushanbe, Tajikistan. Watch: WION ground report from inside Kabul airport × “Op Devi Shakti continues. 78 evacuees from Kabul arrive via Dushanbe. Salute @IAF_MCC, @AirIndiain and #TeamMEA for their untiring efforts,” Jaishankar tweeted. India began its rescue mission in coordination with the US, Qatar, Tajikistan and several other friendly countries. On August 16, 40 Indians were airlifted from Kabul, a day after the Taliban seized control of the Afghan capital city. Also Read | Taliban appoints ex-Guantanamo detainee as acting defence minister: Report So far, India has managed to evacuate over 800 people amid deteriorating security situation at Kabul airport. Thousands of Afghans have been swarming at Kabul airport for the past one week, in a desperate attempt to flee the country fearing the Taliban's rule. (With inputs from agencies)

Now, Afghan nationals can travel to India on e-Visa only

India added 25,467 new <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-sees-single-day-rise-of-25072-new-covid-cases-lowest-in-160-days-407800">COVID-19 </a>cases, while the active cases declined to 3,19,551, comprising 0.98 per cent of the total infections, the lowest since March 2020, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Tuesday.

The total tally of COVID-19 cases has increased to 3,24,74,773.

The death toll has climbed to 4,35,110 with 354 fresh fatalities, according to the data updated at 8 am on Tuesday.

The active cases were the lowest in 156 days, while the national COVID-19 recovery rate has increased to 97.68 per cent, the highest since March 2020, the ministry said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-third-wave-will-come-if-we-invite-it-government-407834">Also Read: COVID-19 third wave will come if we invite it, says government</a>

A reduction of 14373 cases has been recorded in the total number of active COVID-19 cases in a span of 24 hours.

Also, 16,47,526 tests were conducted on Monday, taking the cumulative tests conducted so far for detection of COVID-19 in the country to 50,93,91,792.

The daily positivity rate was recorded at 1.94 per cent. It has been less than three per cent for the last 28 days.

The weekly positivity rate was recorded at 1.90 per cent. It has been below three per cent for the last 60 days, according to the ministry.

The number of people who have recuperated from the disease surged to 3,17,20,112, while the case fatality rate stands at 1.34 per cent, the data stated.

Cumulatively, 58.89 crore COVID-19 vaccine doses have been administered under the nationwide vaccination drive till Tuesday morning.

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 3&nbsp;crore on June 23.

The 354 new fatalities include 105 from Maharashtra, 90 from Kerala and 68 from Odisha.

A total of 4,35,110 deaths have been reported so far in the country, including 1,36,067 from Maharashtra, 37,155 from Karnataka, 34,734 from Tamil Nadu, 25,079 from Delhi, 22,792 from Uttar Pradesh, 19,584 from Kerala and 18,371 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.

India added 25,467 new COVID-19 cases, while the active cases declined to 3,19,551, comprising 0.98 per cent of the total infections, the lowest since March 2020, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Tuesday.

India added 25,467 new COVID-19 cases, while the active cases declined to 3,19,551, comprising 0.98 per cent of the total infections, the lowest since March 2020, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Tuesday. The total tally of COVID-19 cases has increased to 3,24,74,773. The death toll has climbed to 4,35,110 with 354 fresh fatalities, according to the data updated at 8 am on Tuesday. The active cases were the lowest in 156 days, while the national COVID-19 recovery rate has increased to 97.68 per cent, the highest since March 2020, the ministry said. Also Read: COVID-19 third wave will come if we invite it, says government A reduction of 14373 cases has been recorded in the total number of active COVID-19 cases in a span of 24 hours. Also, 16,47,526 tests were conducted on Monday, taking the cumulative tests conducted so far for detection of COVID-19 in the country to 50,93,91,792. The daily positivity rate was recorded at 1.94 per cent. It has been less than three per cent for the last 28 days. The weekly positivity rate was recorded at 1.90 per cent. It has been below three per cent for the last 60 days, according to the ministry. The number of people who have recuperated from the disease surged to 3,17,20,112, while the case fatality rate stands at 1.34 per cent, the data stated. Cumulatively, 58.89 crore COVID-19 vaccine doses have been administered under the nationwide vaccination drive till Tuesday morning. 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 3 crore on June 23. The 354 new fatalities include 105 from Maharashtra, 90 from Kerala and 68 from Odisha. A total of 4,35,110 deaths have been reported so far in the country, including 1,36,067 from Maharashtra, 37,155 from Karnataka, 34,734 from Tamil Nadu, 25,079 from Delhi, 22,792 from Uttar Pradesh, 19,584 from Kerala and 18,371 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.

India records over 25,000 COVID-19 cases in 24 hours; active infections decline

In an important development, India and Russia have agreed to form a "permanent bilateral channel" for consultations on Afghanistan. The announcement of bilateral channel has been the most visible practical cooperation between India &amp; any of its allies on Afghanistan in the aftermath of fall of Kabul to Taliban since 15th August.

The development was announced hours after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi &amp; Russian President Vladimir Putin held 45-minute telephonic conversation on Tuesday.&nbsp;

In a tweet, PM said, "Had a detailed and useful exchange of views with my friend President Putin on recent developments in Afghanistan..."&nbsp;

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Had a detailed and useful exchange of views with my friend President Putin on recent developments in Afghanistan. We also discussed issues on the bilateral agenda, including India-Russia cooperation against COVID-19. We agreed to continue close consultations on important issues.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1430098467100119047?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 24, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Both sides have had regular exchanges on Afghanistan, including during External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar's Russia visit &amp; Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov's India visit earlier this year.

During Modi-Putin talks, both sides agreed to cooperate on counter-terror &amp; drug threat "emanating from the territory of Afghanistan", Russian readout of talks said.

They also "noted the importance of coordinated efforts" which would "contribute to the establishment of peace and stability in this country, ensuring security in the region as a whole".&nbsp;

The situation in Afghanistan is seen as security challenge to both India &amp; Russia. For India, Afghanistan could become a safe haven for Pakistan-based terror groups, and for Russia, a spillover of the crisis can impact friendly central Asian countries like Uzbekistan, Tajikistan.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/evacuations-must-be-completed-by-august-31-afghans-not-allowed-to-go-to-airport-taliban-408053">Evacuations must be completed by August 31, Afghans not allowed to go to airport: Taliban</a>

Important to remember, India's Deputy National Security Advisor (NSA) Pankaj Saran met Russian NSA Nikolai Patrushev last week in Moscow &amp; discussed Afghanistan. Last week was the first week since the fall of Kabul, and Taliban emerging as dominant force in Afghanistan.&nbsp;

During the talks both sides also had conversation on trade, Covid crisis, manufacture of Russian Vaccines in India. Next few months will see increased India, Russia engagement, given India will host BRICS summit in September as the chair of the grouping, Russian President Vladimir Putin's much-awaited India visit for annual India Russia bilateral summit &amp; deliveries of the first units of S400 air defence systems.

In an important development, India and Russia have agreed to form a "permanent bilateral channel" for consultations on Afghanistan. The announcement of bilateral channel has been the most visible practical cooperation between India & any of its allies on Afghanistan in the aftermath of fall of Kabul to Taliban since 15th August.

In an important development, India and Russia have agreed to form a "permanent bilateral channel" for consultations on Afghanistan. The announcement of bilateral channel has been the most visible practical cooperation between India & any of its allies on Afghanistan in the aftermath of fall of Kabul to Taliban since 15th August. The development was announced hours after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi & Russian President Vladimir Putin held 45-minute telephonic conversation on Tuesday. In a tweet, PM said, "Had a detailed and useful exchange of views with my friend President Putin on recent developments in Afghanistan..." Had a detailed and useful exchange of views with my friend President Putin on recent developments in Afghanistan. We also discussed issues on the bilateral agenda, including India-Russia cooperation against COVID-19. We agreed to continue close consultations on important issues. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 24, 2021 × Both sides have had regular exchanges on Afghanistan, including during External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar's Russia visit & Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov's India visit earlier this year. During Modi-Putin talks, both sides agreed to cooperate on counter-terror & drug threat "emanating from the territory of Afghanistan", Russian readout of talks said. They also "noted the importance of coordinated efforts" which would "contribute to the establishment of peace and stability in this country, ensuring security in the region as a whole". The situation in Afghanistan is seen as security challenge to both India & Russia. For India, Afghanistan could become a safe haven for Pakistan-based terror groups, and for Russia, a spillover of the crisis can impact friendly central Asian countries like Uzbekistan, Tajikistan. Also Read: Evacuations must be completed by August 31, Afghans not allowed to go to airport: Taliban Important to remember, India's Deputy National Security Advisor (NSA) Pankaj Saran met Russian NSA Nikolai Patrushev last week in Moscow & discussed Afghanistan. Last week was the first week since the fall of Kabul, and Taliban emerging as dominant force in Afghanistan. During the talks both sides also had conversation on trade, Covid crisis, manufacture of Russian Vaccines in India. Next few months will see increased India, Russia engagement, given India will host BRICS summit in September as the chair of the grouping, Russian President Vladimir Putin's much-awaited India visit for annual India Russia bilateral summit & deliveries of the first units of S400 air defence systems.

India, Russia form 'permanent bilateral channel' for consultations on Afghanistan

Afghan Sikh MP Narendra Singh Khalsa has called the situation in his country "serious" and added that everyone is scared. Speaking to our&nbsp;Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Khalsa said, "&nbsp;situation is bad, and people are scared.". He was evacuated to India over the weekend in an IAF flight, days after Kabul was run over by the Taliban.&nbsp;

Narendra Singh Khalsa is the son of Awtar Singh Khalsa, who was a Sikh representative to the Loya Jirga from Paktia province of Afghanistan. He died in the 2018 Jalalabad suicide attack.&nbsp;More than 15 died in that terror attack and drew widespread condemnation.

WION: What is the conditions in Kabul right now?

Narendra Singh Khalsa:&nbsp;The situation is serious, there is no government. Taliban has come&nbsp;and the situation remains fragile. Everyone is scared&nbsp;and everyone is in trouble.

WION: Who do think is to blame for the current situation in your country?

Narendra Singh Khalsa: Afghanistan is a key country in Asia and in the world. Enemies are working in Afghanistan,&nbsp;Ghani left the country&nbsp;but we are happy and content that he is safe and&nbsp;secure in the UAE.

WION: Are minorities scared in the country?

Narendra Singh Khalsa:&nbsp;We can't say anything. In the last few days,&nbsp;we went outside just once.

We stayed in the houses of our friends but&nbsp;can't say anything&nbsp;since the situation is bad&nbsp;and the people are scared. At the gates of the airport,&nbsp;people want to leave the country&nbsp;and many people are standing outside the airport.

Taliban has come in the past too, they were fine for the first few days, few months and then they indulged in activities that no one liked. Everyone is saying there is nothing to worry&nbsp;but we can't say anything.

Afghan Sikh MP Narendra Singh Khalsa has called the situation in his country "serious" and added that everyone is scared. Speaking to our Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Khalsa said, " situation is bad, and people are scared.

Afghan Sikh MP Narendra Singh Khalsa has called the situation in his country "serious" and added that everyone is scared. Speaking to our Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Khalsa said, " situation is bad, and people are scared.". He was evacuated to India over the weekend in an IAF flight, days after Kabul was run over by the Taliban. Narendra Singh Khalsa is the son of Awtar Singh Khalsa, who was a Sikh representative to the Loya Jirga from Paktia province of Afghanistan. He died in the 2018 Jalalabad suicide attack. More than 15 died in that terror attack and drew widespread condemnation. WION: What is the conditions in Kabul right now? Narendra Singh Khalsa: The situation is serious, there is no government. Taliban has come and the situation remains fragile. Everyone is scared and everyone is in trouble. WION: Who do think is to blame for the current situation in your country? Narendra Singh Khalsa: Afghanistan is a key country in Asia and in the world. Enemies are working in Afghanistan, Ghani left the country but we are happy and content that he is safe and secure in the UAE. WION: Are minorities scared in the country? Narendra Singh Khalsa: We can't say anything. In the last few days, we went outside just once. We stayed in the houses of our friends but can't say anything since the situation is bad and the people are scared. At the gates of the airport, people want to leave the country and many people are standing outside the airport. Taliban has come in the past too, they were fine for the first few days, few months and then they indulged in activities that no one liked. Everyone is saying there is nothing to worry but we can't say anything.

Situation is serious, says Afghan Sikh MP Narendra Khalsa

India highlighted its concerns over Pakistan-based international terrorist groups at United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) meet. India raised flag over terror groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM)

India's envoy to UN, Indra Mani Pandey said,""Stability in Afghanistan is linked to the peace and security of the region. &nbsp;We hope that the situation in Afghanistan does not pose a challenge to its neighbours and its territory is not used by terrorist groups such as Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), to threaten any other country."

Afghanistan has become unstable and thousands of people have been leaving the country ever since the Taliban took over Afghan national capital Kabul on August 15. Many of the Afghans who are leaving are worried over future under the Taliban rule.

Pandey hoped that "there is an inclusive and broad-based dispensation which represents all sections of Afghan society" &amp; said that "voices of Afghan women, aspirations of Afghan children and the rights of minorities must be respected".&nbsp;

He explained, "A broad-based representation would help the arrangement gain more acceptability and legitimacy."

International community has largely called for the same -- inclusive set up, one that is not dominated by one ethnicity but has representation from everyone given Afghanistan is an ethnically diverse country.

Calling, the security situation "precarious" he said, a "grave humanitarian crisis is unfolding"

"Everyone is concerned about the increasing violations of fundamental rights of Afghan citizens" &amp; "Afghans are worried about whether their right to live with dignity would be respected," he added.

Heartbreaking visuals have emerged over last few days from Afghanistan especially around the Kabul Airport. The airport has been thronged by people who want to flee the country.&nbsp;

India on its part has been evacuating hundreds of its nationals and many Afghan vulnerable groups like the minority Hindus and Sikhs. Over last few days India has brought more than 40 Afghan Sikhs to Delhi. In addition 3 copies of Sikh Holy Book 'Guru Granth Sahib' have also been brought. Union ministers, Hardeep Singh Puri &amp; V Muraleedharan were at the airport to receive the Holy Books.

Indra Mani called on the international community to "ensure full support to the people of Afghanistan in their desire for peace, stability and security in the country and to enable all Afghans, including women, children and minorities, to live in peace and dignity."

He also pointed out to India's contribution to the country in the last 20 years in terms of humanitarian assistance, capacity building, connectivity. During the Covid crisis, India sent 75,000 MTs of wheat to Afghanistan to ensure food security during the pandemic.

India highlighted its concerns over Pakistan-based international terrorist groups at United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) meet. India raised flag over terror groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) India's envoy to UN, Indra Mani Pandey said,""Stability in Afghanistan is linked to the peace and security of the region.

India highlighted its concerns over Pakistan-based international terrorist groups at United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) meet. India raised flag over terror groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) India's envoy to UN, Indra Mani Pandey said,""Stability in Afghanistan is linked to the peace and security of the region. We hope that the situation in Afghanistan does not pose a challenge to its neighbours and its territory is not used by terrorist groups such as Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), to threaten any other country." Afghanistan has become unstable and thousands of people have been leaving the country ever since the Taliban took over Afghan national capital Kabul on August 15. Many of the Afghans who are leaving are worried over future under the Taliban rule. Pandey hoped that "there is an inclusive and broad-based dispensation which represents all sections of Afghan society" & said that "voices of Afghan women, aspirations of Afghan children and the rights of minorities must be respected". He explained, "A broad-based representation would help the arrangement gain more acceptability and legitimacy." International community has largely called for the same -- inclusive set up, one that is not dominated by one ethnicity but has representation from everyone given Afghanistan is an ethnically diverse country. Calling, the security situation "precarious" he said, a "grave humanitarian crisis is unfolding" "Everyone is concerned about the increasing violations of fundamental rights of Afghan citizens" & "Afghans are worried about whether their right to live with dignity would be respected," he added. Heartbreaking visuals have emerged over last few days from Afghanistan especially around the Kabul Airport. The airport has been thronged by people who want to flee the country. India on its part has been evacuating hundreds of its nationals and many Afghan vulnerable groups like the minority Hindus and Sikhs. Over last few days India has brought more than 40 Afghan Sikhs to Delhi. In addition 3 copies of Sikh Holy Book 'Guru Granth Sahib' have also been brought. Union ministers, Hardeep Singh Puri & V Muraleedharan were at the airport to receive the Holy Books. Indra Mani called on the international community to "ensure full support to the people of Afghanistan in their desire for peace, stability and security in the country and to enable all Afghans, including women, children and minorities, to live in peace and dignity." He also pointed out to India's contribution to the country in the last 20 years in terms of humanitarian assistance, capacity building, connectivity. During the Covid crisis, India sent 75,000 MTs of wheat to Afghanistan to ensure food security during the pandemic.

UNHRC meet on Afghanistan: India raises concern over Pakistan-based terror groups

India on Tuesday formally named one of its “complicated” rescue operation of citizens from war-torn Afghanistan, calling it “Operation Devi Shakti.”

Saluting the efforts of the Indian Air Force and Air India, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar made the announcement on Twitter after 78 people were brought to New Delhi via Dushanbe, Tajikistan.

“Op Devi Shakti continues. 78 evacuees from Kabul arrive via Dushanbe. Salute @IAF_MCC, @AirIndiain and #TeamMEA for their untiring efforts,” Jaishankar tweeted.

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Op Devi Shakti continues. 
 
78 evacuees from Kabul arrive via Dushanbe. 
 
Salute <a href="https://twitter.com/IAF_MCC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IAF_MCC</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/airindiain?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AirIndiain</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamMEA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamMEA</a> for their untiring efforts. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DeviShakti?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DeviShakti</a>
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1430062198219366403?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 24, 2021</a></blockquote>
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India began its rescue mission in coordination with the US, Qatar, Tajikistan and several other friendly countries. On August 16, 40 Indians were airlifted from Kabul, a day after the Taliban seized control of the Afghan capital city.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/why-is-world-silent-asks-afghanistans-first-female-sikh-mp-407905">‘Why is world silent?’, asks Afghanistan’s first female Sikh MP</a>

So far, India has managed to evacuate over 800 people amid deteriorating security situation at Kabul airport.

Thousands of Afghans have been swarming at Kabul airport for the past one week, in a desperate attempt to flee the country fearing the Taliban's rule.

On August 17, Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Security where he directed the officials to ensure the safe evacuation of all Indians from Afghanistan and provide refuge to Afghan Sikhs and Hindus wanting to come to India.

After India evacuated the Indian embassy staff from Kabul on August 17, Jaishankar had described the mission as a “difficult and complicated” exercise.

India on Tuesday formally named one of its “complicated” rescue operation of citizens from war-torn Afghanistan, calling it “Operation Devi Shakti.” Saluting the efforts of the Indian Air Force and Air India, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar made the announcement on Twitter after 78 people were brought to New Delhi via Dushanbe, Tajikistan.

India on Tuesday formally named one of its “complicated” rescue operation of citizens from war-torn Afghanistan, calling it “Operation Devi Shakti.” Saluting the efforts of the Indian Air Force and Air India, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar made the announcement on Twitter after 78 people were brought to New Delhi via Dushanbe, Tajikistan. “Op Devi Shakti continues. 78 evacuees from Kabul arrive via Dushanbe. Salute @IAF_MCC, @AirIndiain and #TeamMEA for their untiring efforts,” Jaishankar tweeted. Op Devi Shakti continues. 78 evacuees from Kabul arrive via Dushanbe. Salute @IAF_MCC, @AirIndiain and #TeamMEA for their untiring efforts. #DeviShakti — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) August 24, 2021 × India began its rescue mission in coordination with the US, Qatar, Tajikistan and several other friendly countries. On August 16, 40 Indians were airlifted from Kabul, a day after the Taliban seized control of the Afghan capital city. Also read | ‘Why is world silent?’, asks Afghanistan’s first female Sikh MP So far, India has managed to evacuate over 800 people amid deteriorating security situation at Kabul airport. Thousands of Afghans have been swarming at Kabul airport for the past one week, in a desperate attempt to flee the country fearing the Taliban's rule. On August 17, Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Security where he directed the officials to ensure the safe evacuation of all Indians from Afghanistan and provide refuge to Afghan Sikhs and Hindus wanting to come to India. After India evacuated the Indian embassy staff from Kabul on August 17, Jaishankar had described the mission as a “difficult and complicated” exercise.

‘Operation Devi Shakti’: 78 more evacuees from Afghanistan land in India, 800 rescued so far

Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday as&nbsp;the two leaders had a detailed discussion on the evolving situation in Afghanistan.

PM Modi tweeted, "Had a detailed and useful exchange of views with my friend President Putin on recent developments in Afghanistan. We also discussed issues on the bilateral agenda, including India-Russia cooperation against COVID-19. We agreed to continue close consultations on important issues."

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Had a detailed and useful exchange of views with my friend President Putin on recent developments in Afghanistan. We also discussed issues on the bilateral agenda, including India-Russia cooperation against COVID-19. We agreed to continue close consultations on important issues.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1430098467100119047?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 24, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The Indian prime minister on Monday had spoken to German Chancellor Angela Merkel on the Afghanistan situation and its implications on the region and the world. Both leaders had emphasised the importance of maintaining peace and security.

India on Tuesday brought back 78 people, including 25 of its nationals and a number of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/situation-is-serious-says-afghan-sikh-mp-narendra-khalsa-407909">Afghan Sikhs</a> and Hindus from Dushanbe, a day after they were evacuated from Taliban-besieged Kabul to the Tajik city.

The group along with three copies of the Sikh scripture, Guru Granth Sahib, was airlifted from Kabul to Dushanbe by a military transport aircraft of the Indian Air Force on Monday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/two-passengers-from-afghanistan-test-covid-19-positive-in-new-delhi-407835">Also Read:&nbsp;Two passengers from Afghanistan test COVID-19 positive in New Delhi&nbsp;</a>

With Tuesday's evacuation, the number of people brought back to Delhi reached over 800 since August 16 when the first group was airlifted from Kabul, a day after the Taliban seized control of the Afghan capital city.

The evacuees were received at the Indira Gandhi International Airport by Union ministers Hardeep Singh Puri and V Muraleedharan. 
"Blessed to receive &amp; pay obeisance to three holy Swaroop of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji from Kabul to Delhi a short while ago," Puri tweeted.

On Monday, India had brought back 146 of its nationals to Delhi in four different flights from the Qatari capital Doha, days after they were evacuated from Kabul by NATO and American aircraft.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/afghanistan-evacuation-india-brings-back-146-nationals-from-doha-407782">Also Read:&nbsp;India brings back 146 nationals from Doha</a>

India has stepped up efforts to evacuate its citizens as well as its Afghan partners from Kabul in view of the deteriorating security situation in the Afghan capital and other parts of the country after the Taliban swept to power last week.

On Sunday, India evacuated 392 people including two Afghan lawmakers in three different flights under the evacuation mission. 
The Taliban seized control of Kabul on August 15. Within two days of the Taliban's capture of Kabul, India evacuated 200 people, including the Indian envoy and other staffers of its embassy in the Afghan capital.

The first evacuation flight brought back over 40 people, mostly staffers at the Indian embassy on August 16.

The second aircraft evacuated around 150 people including Indian diplomats, officials, security personnel and some stranded Indians from Kabul on August 17.

India carried out the evacuation missions in coordination with the US and several other friendly countries.

The Taliban swept across Afghanistan this month, seizing control of almost all key towns and cities, including Kabul, in the backdrop of the withdrawal of the US forces.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday as the two leaders had a detailed discussion on the evolving situation in Afghanistan.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday as the two leaders had a detailed discussion on the evolving situation in Afghanistan. PM Modi tweeted, "Had a detailed and useful exchange of views with my friend President Putin on recent developments in Afghanistan. We also discussed issues on the bilateral agenda, including India-Russia cooperation against COVID-19. We agreed to continue close consultations on important issues." Had a detailed and useful exchange of views with my friend President Putin on recent developments in Afghanistan. We also discussed issues on the bilateral agenda, including India-Russia cooperation against COVID-19. We agreed to continue close consultations on important issues. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 24, 2021 × The Indian prime minister on Monday had spoken to German Chancellor Angela Merkel on the Afghanistan situation and its implications on the region and the world. Both leaders had emphasised the importance of maintaining peace and security. India on Tuesday brought back 78 people, including 25 of its nationals and a number of Afghan Sikhs and Hindus from Dushanbe, a day after they were evacuated from Taliban-besieged Kabul to the Tajik city. The group along with three copies of the Sikh scripture, Guru Granth Sahib, was airlifted from Kabul to Dushanbe by a military transport aircraft of the Indian Air Force on Monday. Also Read: Two passengers from Afghanistan test COVID-19 positive in New Delhi With Tuesday's evacuation, the number of people brought back to Delhi reached over 800 since August 16 when the first group was airlifted from Kabul, a day after the Taliban seized control of the Afghan capital city. The evacuees were received at the Indira Gandhi International Airport by Union ministers Hardeep Singh Puri and V Muraleedharan. "Blessed to receive & pay obeisance to three holy Swaroop of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji from Kabul to Delhi a short while ago," Puri tweeted. On Monday, India had brought back 146 of its nationals to Delhi in four different flights from the Qatari capital Doha, days after they were evacuated from Kabul by NATO and American aircraft. Also Read: India brings back 146 nationals from Doha India has stepped up efforts to evacuate its citizens as well as its Afghan partners from Kabul in view of the deteriorating security situation in the Afghan capital and other parts of the country after the Taliban swept to power last week. On Sunday, India evacuated 392 people including two Afghan lawmakers in three different flights under the evacuation mission. The Taliban seized control of Kabul on August 15. Within two days of the Taliban's capture of Kabul, India evacuated 200 people, including the Indian envoy and other staffers of its embassy in the Afghan capital. The first evacuation flight brought back over 40 people, mostly staffers at the Indian embassy on August 16. The second aircraft evacuated around 150 people including Indian diplomats, officials, security personnel and some stranded Indians from Kabul on August 17. India carried out the evacuation missions in coordination with the US and several other friendly countries. The Taliban swept across Afghanistan this month, seizing control of almost all key towns and cities, including Kabul, in the backdrop of the withdrawal of the US forces.

PM Modi speaks to Russian President Putin on evolving situation in Afghanistan

Three copies of Guru Granth Sahib along with 46 Afghan Sikhs and Hindus have been evacuated from war-ravaged Afghanistan on an IAF plane.

Three copies of Guru Granth Sahib along with 44 Sikhs and Hindus evacuated from Kabul

With evacuations from Afghanistan going on in full swing, India also welcomed three Guru Granth Sahib from Kabul at Delhi airport. &nbsp;&nbsp;

India's Union Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs &amp; Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas Hardeep Singh Puri welcomed the holy books along with Union Minister of State for External Affairs &amp; Parliamentary Affairs V Muraleedharan, Rajya Sabha Member of Parliament and BJP National General Secretary Dushyant Kumar Gautam and members of Sikh Sangat. &nbsp;

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ਵਾਹੁ ਵਾਹੁ ਬਾਣੀ ਨਿਰੰਕਾਰ ਹੈ 
ਤਿਸੁ ਜੇਵਡੁ ਅਵਰੁ ਨ ਕੋਇ ।। 
 
Deeply privileged &amp; fortunate to welcome the three holy Swaroop of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji from Kabul at ⁦⁦<a href="https://twitter.com/DelhiAirport?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DelhiAirport</a>⁩ along with Sh ⁦⁦<a href="https://twitter.com/VMBJP?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@VMBJP</a>⁩ Ji, Sh ⁦<a href="https://twitter.com/dushyanttgautam?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@dushyanttgautam</a>⁩ Ji &amp; members of Sikh Sangat. <a href="https://t.co/mWhTwpnoOs">pic.twitter.com/mWhTwpnoOs</a>
— Hardeep Singh Puri (@HardeepSPuri) <a href="https://twitter.com/HardeepSPuri/status/1430054013299429378?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 24, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Puri, said that he was deeply privileged and fortunate to welcome the three holy swaroop of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji from Kabul at Delhi Airport. &nbsp;

Also Watch | Reports: WHO says Kabul airport curbs blocking medical supplies for Afghans

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In a tweet on the microblogging site, former diplomat &amp; author Puri said, “Blessed to receive and pay obeisance to three holy Swaroop of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji from Kabul to Delhi a short while ago.” &nbsp;

Several pictures and video of the arrival are doing rounds on social media. Netizens are sharing numerous messages in the form of comments. Several people have also tweeted and retweeted the pictures and video.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-records-over-25000-covid-19-cases-in-24-hours-active-infections-decline-407959">India records over 25,000 COVID-19 cases in 24 hours; active infections decline</a>&nbsp;

Meanwhile, An Air India flight AI 1956 had arrived in New Delhi from Dushanbe, Tajikistan with 78 passengers onboard. Around 25 Indian nationals also came in the flight.&nbsp;

With evacuations from Afghanistan going on in full swing, India also welcomed three Guru Granth Sahib from Kabul at Delhi airport. India's Union Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs & Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas Hardeep Singh Puri welcomed the holy books along with Union Minister of State for External Affairs & Parliamentary Affairs V Muraleedharan, Rajya Sabha Member of Parliament and BJP National General Secretary Dushyant Kumar Gautam and members of Sikh Sangat.

With evacuations from Afghanistan going on in full swing, India also welcomed three Guru Granth Sahib from Kabul at Delhi airport. India's Union Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs & Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas Hardeep Singh Puri welcomed the holy books along with Union Minister of State for External Affairs & Parliamentary Affairs V Muraleedharan, Rajya Sabha Member of Parliament and BJP National General Secretary Dushyant Kumar Gautam and members of Sikh Sangat. ਵਾਹੁ ਵਾਹੁ ਬਾਣੀ ਨਿਰੰਕਾਰ ਹੈ ਤਿਸੁ ਜੇਵਡੁ ਅਵਰੁ ਨ ਕੋਇ ।। Deeply privileged & fortunate to welcome the three holy Swaroop of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji from Kabul at ⁦⁦@DelhiAirport⁩ along with Sh ⁦⁦@VMBJP⁩ Ji, Sh ⁦@dushyanttgautam⁩ Ji & members of Sikh Sangat. pic.twitter.com/mWhTwpnoOs — Hardeep Singh Puri (@HardeepSPuri) August 24, 2021 × Puri, said that he was deeply privileged and fortunate to welcome the three holy swaroop of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji from Kabul at Delhi Airport. Also Watch | Reports: WHO says Kabul airport curbs blocking medical supplies for Afghans × In a tweet on the microblogging site, former diplomat & author Puri said, “Blessed to receive and pay obeisance to three holy Swaroop of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji from Kabul to Delhi a short while ago.” Several pictures and video of the arrival are doing rounds on social media. Netizens are sharing numerous messages in the form of comments. Several people have also tweeted and retweeted the pictures and video. Also Read: India records over 25,000 COVID-19 cases in 24 hours; active infections decline Meanwhile, An Air India flight AI 1956 had arrived in New Delhi from Dushanbe, Tajikistan with 78 passengers onboard. Around 25 Indian nationals also came in the flight.

Watch: India welcomes three Sikh holy books brought from Kabul

India has been making strenuous efforts to evacuate several people from war-torn Afghanistan after Taliban took over almost the whole country. &nbsp;

Indian government has said on social media that it is helping in the safe return of numerous citizens from Afghanistan.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/situation-is-serious-says-afghan-sikh-mp-narendra-khalsa-407909">Situation is serious, says Afghan Sikh MP Narendra Khalsa</a>

An Air India flight AI 1956 arrived in New Delhi from Dushanbe, Tajikistan with 78 passengers onboard. Around 25 Indian nationals also came in the flight. &nbsp;

"Op Devi Shakti continues. 78 evacuees from Kabul arrive via Dushanbe. Salute IAF, Air India and MEA teams for their untiring efforts," said External Affairs Minister of India Dr S Jaishankar.

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Op Devi Shakti continues. 
 
78 evacuees from Kabul arrive via Dushanbe. 
 
Salute <a href="https://twitter.com/IAF_MCC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IAF_MCC</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/airindiain?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AirIndiain</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamMEA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamMEA</a> for their untiring efforts. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DeviShakti?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DeviShakti</a>
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1430062198219366403?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 24, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Evacuees were earlier flown in from Kabul on an Indian Air Force aircraft.&nbsp;

In a tweet, Arindam Bagchi, spokesperson, Ministry of External Affairs, India, said “Helping in the safe return from Afghanistan. AI 1956 enroute to Delhi from Dushanbe carrying 78 passengers, including 25 Indian nationals. Evacuees were flown in from Kabul on an IAF aircraft.”

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Helping in the safe return from Afghanistan. 
AI 1956 enroute to Delhi from Dushanbe carrying 78 passengers, including 25 Indian nationals. Evacuees were flown in from Kabul on an <a href="https://twitter.com/IAF_MCC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IAF_MCC</a> aircraft.<a href="https://twitter.com/IndEmbDushanbe?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndEmbDushanbe</a> <a href="https://t.co/BcIWLzSLrL">pic.twitter.com/BcIWLzSLrL</a>
— Arindam Bagchi (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1429980993545408517?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 24, 2021</a></blockquote>
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On Monday, India brought back 146 of its nationals in four different flights from Qatar's capital Doha, days after they were evacuated from Afghanistan by NATO and American aircraft in view of the deteriorating security situation in the country.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;India brings back 146 nationals in four different flights from Doha

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People familiar with the development said the Indians were flown back to Delhi as part of India's mission to evacuate its citizens and Afghan partners from Kabul, they said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

India has been making strenuous efforts to evacuate several people from war-torn Afghanistan after Taliban took over almost the whole country. Indian government has said on social media that it is helping in the safe return of numerous citizens from Afghanistan.

India has been making strenuous efforts to evacuate several people from war-torn Afghanistan after Taliban took over almost the whole country. Indian government has said on social media that it is helping in the safe return of numerous citizens from Afghanistan. Also Read: Situation is serious, says Afghan Sikh MP Narendra Khalsa An Air India flight AI 1956 arrived in New Delhi from Dushanbe, Tajikistan with 78 passengers onboard. Around 25 Indian nationals also came in the flight. "Op Devi Shakti continues. 78 evacuees from Kabul arrive via Dushanbe. Salute IAF, Air India and MEA teams for their untiring efforts," said External Affairs Minister of India Dr S Jaishankar. Op Devi Shakti continues. 78 evacuees from Kabul arrive via Dushanbe. Salute @IAF_MCC, @AirIndiain and #TeamMEA for their untiring efforts. #DeviShakti — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) August 24, 2021 × Evacuees were earlier flown in from Kabul on an Indian Air Force aircraft. In a tweet, Arindam Bagchi, spokesperson, Ministry of External Affairs, India, said “Helping in the safe return from Afghanistan. AI 1956 enroute to Delhi from Dushanbe carrying 78 passengers, including 25 Indian nationals. Evacuees were flown in from Kabul on an IAF aircraft.” Helping in the safe return from Afghanistan. AI 1956 enroute to Delhi from Dushanbe carrying 78 passengers, including 25 Indian nationals. Evacuees were flown in from Kabul on an @IAF_MCC aircraft.@IndEmbDushanbe pic.twitter.com/BcIWLzSLrL — Arindam Bagchi (@MEAIndia) August 24, 2021 × On Monday, India brought back 146 of its nationals in four different flights from Qatar's capital Doha, days after they were evacuated from Afghanistan by NATO and American aircraft in view of the deteriorating security situation in the country. Watch: India brings back 146 nationals in four different flights from Doha × People familiar with the development said the Indians were flown back to Delhi as part of India's mission to evacuate its citizens and Afghan partners from Kabul, they said. (With inputs from agencies)

Afghan evacuation: Air India flight arrives in Delhi from Dushanbe with 78 passengers

Over 55,000 Indian students and exchange visitors are travelling to study in the US this year and it is "an all-time record", the US embassy said on Monday.

It said more visa applications were approved in the current year than ever before notwithstanding the coronavirus pandemic.

"The US mission in India is pleased to announce that its embassy and consulates approved more student visa applicants in 2021 than ever before, despite the global COVID-19 pandemic," the embassy said.

"Through these efforts, more than 55,000 students and exchange visitors are boarding planes to study in the US, and more students are being approved every day," it said in a statement.

In a tweet, the embassy described it as an all-time record.

"Huge congratulations to our hardworking consular teams across the U.S. Mission in India. This year, more than 55K students are boarding planes to study in the United States, an all-time record in India. Wishing all students a successful academic year!" it said.

Ambassador Atul Keshap, the Charge d'Affaires at the US embassy, lauded the staff involved in the issuance of visas and said Indian students enrich US society, achieve high levels of academic success, and deepen the bonds of friendship between the two countries.

"Studying in the US is a unique and often life-changing experience for Indian students, granting fresh, global perspectives and frequently leading to invaluable career opportunities," he said.

"Indian students also enrich US society, achieve high levels of academic success, and deepen the bonds of friendship between our countries. The many hard-working women and men of the US Mission to India are proud to facilitate their travel and study," Keshap added.

The embassy said the US missions typically begin interviewing fall semester students for a given year in May, but the second wave of COVID-19 forced a delay in the commencement of the student visa season by two months.

"In July, as soon as conditions allowed for the resumption of visa services without endangering applicants' health and safety, consular teams worked not only to match but surpass, their pre-Covid workload," it said.

It said the US embassy and consulates opened additional hours for visa appointments and made every possible effort to ensure timely arrival for academic programmes for as many students as possible.

"Ultimately, these efforts paid off, as more students than ever before received visas to study in the US," the embassy said.

It said interested students can also participate in upcoming Education USA University Virtual Fairs to be held on August 27, for prospective graduate students and on September 3, for prospective undergraduate students.

Over 55,000 Indian students and exchange visitors are travelling to study in the US this year and it is "an all-time record", the US embassy said on Monday. It said more visa applications were approved in the current year than ever before notwithstanding the coronavirus pandemic.

Over 55,000 Indian students and exchange visitors are travelling to study in the US this year and it is "an all-time record", the US embassy said on Monday. It said more visa applications were approved in the current year than ever before notwithstanding the coronavirus pandemic. "The US mission in India is pleased to announce that its embassy and consulates approved more student visa applicants in 2021 than ever before, despite the global COVID-19 pandemic," the embassy said. "Through these efforts, more than 55,000 students and exchange visitors are boarding planes to study in the US, and more students are being approved every day," it said in a statement. In a tweet, the embassy described it as an all-time record. "Huge congratulations to our hardworking consular teams across the U.S. Mission in India. This year, more than 55K students are boarding planes to study in the United States, an all-time record in India. Wishing all students a successful academic year!" it said. Ambassador Atul Keshap, the Charge d'Affaires at the US embassy, lauded the staff involved in the issuance of visas and said Indian students enrich US society, achieve high levels of academic success, and deepen the bonds of friendship between the two countries. "Studying in the US is a unique and often life-changing experience for Indian students, granting fresh, global perspectives and frequently leading to invaluable career opportunities," he said. "Indian students also enrich US society, achieve high levels of academic success, and deepen the bonds of friendship between our countries. The many hard-working women and men of the US Mission to India are proud to facilitate their travel and study," Keshap added. The embassy said the US missions typically begin interviewing fall semester students for a given year in May, but the second wave of COVID-19 forced a delay in the commencement of the student visa season by two months. "In July, as soon as conditions allowed for the resumption of visa services without endangering applicants' health and safety, consular teams worked not only to match but surpass, their pre-Covid workload," it said. It said the US embassy and consulates opened additional hours for visa appointments and made every possible effort to ensure timely arrival for academic programmes for as many students as possible. "Ultimately, these efforts paid off, as more students than ever before received visas to study in the US," the embassy said. It said interested students can also participate in upcoming Education USA University Virtual Fairs to be held on August 27, for prospective graduate students and on September 3, for prospective undergraduate students.

All-time record: Over 55,000 Indian students and exchange visitors travelling to US this year

Taking a tough stand against organisations with ‘separatist’ affiliations intent to foment trouble” in the Jammu and Kashmir valley, the Indian government is considering banning both the factions of the All Party Hurriyat Conference under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), Indian media reported citing unnamed Indian officials.

This comes after a probe conducted by the government officials revealed that some organisations that were part of the Hurriyat Conference used to collect money from Kashmiri students in lieu of securing MBBS seats in Pakistani institutions, and using that money to fund terror organisations in the Union Territory.

The officials said both the Hurriyat camps are likely to be banned under Section 3(1) of the UAPA, in which “if the Central Government is of opinion that any association is, or has become, an unlawful association, it may, by notification in the Official Gazette, declare such association to be unlawful.”

During the probe, the officials said they found about the alleged involvement of members of the Hurriyat Conference with proscribed terrorist organisations Hizb-ul-Mujahideen (HM), Dukhtaran-e-Millat (DeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT).

Constituted in 1993, the Hurriyat Conference consisted of 26 groups, including some pro-Pakistan and banned outfits such as the Jamaat-e-Islami, JKLF and the Dukhtaran-e-Millat. It also included the People's Conference and the Awami Action Committee headed by Mirwaiz Umer Farooq.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/deradicalisation-of-youth-in-jammu-and-kashmir-is-need-of-the-hour-276849">Deradicalisation of youth in Jammu and Kashmir need of the hour</a>

The separatist organisation split into two factions in 2005 with the moderate group being led by the Mirwaiz and the hard-line headed by Syed Ali Shah Geelani, until he quit the party in June 2020 due to health reasons.

Meanwhile, there were some reports that the Tehreek-e-Hurriyat, the extremist faction of the Hurriyat Conference led by Syed Ali Shah Geelani, on Sunday removed its signboard at the group's head office at its leader’s residence in Srinagar's Hyderpora area.

The Centre’s “zero-tolerance” policy towards terrorism comes in the backdrop of Union Home Minister Amit Shah asking the stakeholders in the Kashmir valley to monitor growing radicalisation.

Subsequently, a series of raids were conducted by the National Investigative Agency (NIA) in the Union Territory where several of the conglomerate’s cadres were arrested and jailed.

Many of the second-rung cadres of both the factions are in jail since 2017, the officials said.

Among those in jail are Altaf Ahmed Shah, the son-in-law of Geelani; businessman Zahoor Ahmed Watali; Geelani's close aide Ayaz Akbar, who is also the spokesperson of the hardline separatist organisation Tehreek-e-Hurriyat; Peer Saifullah; Shahid-ul-Islam, spokesperson of the moderate Hurriyat Conference; Mehrajuddin Kalwal; Nayeem Khan; and Farooq Ahmed Dar alias 'Bitta Karate'.

In 2019, the government banned the pro-Pakistani and pro-separatist organisation Jamat-E-Islami, while the organisation led by Asiya Andrabi Dukhtaran-e-Millat, led by, and Yasin Malik’s JKLF were banned in 2018 and 2019, respectively.

(With inputs from agencies)

Taking a tough stand against organisations with ‘separatist’ affiliations intent to foment trouble” in the Jammu and Kashmir valley, the Indian government is considering banning both the factions of the All Party Hurriyat Conference under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), Indian media reported citing unnamed Indian officials.

Taking a tough stand against organisations with ‘separatist’ affiliations intent to foment trouble” in the Jammu and Kashmir valley, the Indian government is considering banning both the factions of the All Party Hurriyat Conference under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), Indian media reported citing unnamed Indian officials. This comes after a probe conducted by the government officials revealed that some organisations that were part of the Hurriyat Conference used to collect money from Kashmiri students in lieu of securing MBBS seats in Pakistani institutions, and using that money to fund terror organisations in the Union Territory. The officials said both the Hurriyat camps are likely to be banned under Section 3(1) of the UAPA, in which “if the Central Government is of opinion that any association is, or has become, an unlawful association, it may, by notification in the Official Gazette, declare such association to be unlawful.” During the probe, the officials said they found about the alleged involvement of members of the Hurriyat Conference with proscribed terrorist organisations Hizb-ul-Mujahideen (HM), Dukhtaran-e-Millat (DeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT). Constituted in 1993, the Hurriyat Conference consisted of 26 groups, including some pro-Pakistan and banned outfits such as the Jamaat-e-Islami, JKLF and the Dukhtaran-e-Millat. It also included the People's Conference and the Awami Action Committee headed by Mirwaiz Umer Farooq. Also read | Deradicalisation of youth in Jammu and Kashmir need of the hour The separatist organisation split into two factions in 2005 with the moderate group being led by the Mirwaiz and the hard-line headed by Syed Ali Shah Geelani, until he quit the party in June 2020 due to health reasons. Meanwhile, there were some reports that the Tehreek-e-Hurriyat, the extremist faction of the Hurriyat Conference led by Syed Ali Shah Geelani, on Sunday removed its signboard at the group's head office at its leader’s residence in Srinagar's Hyderpora area. The Centre’s “zero-tolerance” policy towards terrorism comes in the backdrop of Union Home Minister Amit Shah asking the stakeholders in the Kashmir valley to monitor growing radicalisation. Subsequently, a series of raids were conducted by the National Investigative Agency (NIA) in the Union Territory where several of the conglomerate’s cadres were arrested and jailed. Many of the second-rung cadres of both the factions are in jail since 2017, the officials said. Among those in jail are Altaf Ahmed Shah, the son-in-law of Geelani; businessman Zahoor Ahmed Watali; Geelani's close aide Ayaz Akbar, who is also the spokesperson of the hardline separatist organisation Tehreek-e-Hurriyat; Peer Saifullah; Shahid-ul-Islam, spokesperson of the moderate Hurriyat Conference; Mehrajuddin Kalwal; Nayeem Khan; and Farooq Ahmed Dar alias 'Bitta Karate'. In 2019, the government banned the pro-Pakistani and pro-separatist organisation Jamat-E-Islami, while the organisation led by Asiya Andrabi Dukhtaran-e-Millat, led by, and Yasin Malik’s JKLF were banned in 2018 and 2019, respectively. (With inputs from agencies)

Both factions of Hurriyat likely to be banned for 'involvement' in terror funding activities in J&K

The third COVID-19 wave will come if "invited" by the human behaviour and that of the virus, said Dr Renu Swarup, Secretary of Department of Biotechnology, Government of India, on Monday.

"The virus' behaviour, we know, mutates. We don't have control over that. The more it gets into a larger number of infections, there is more the transmission. Human behaviour is in our control, which involves adopting Covid-appropriate behaviour, i.e. maintaining hygiene, wearing a face mask, following social distancing," Dr Swarup said.

Several scientists and epidemiologists, over the last few weeks, have had expressed concerns over the third wave of coronavirus in India as more virulent variants of the virus, like Delta Plus, circulate.

"If we continue to do follow COVID-19 protocol and break the chain of transmission, we do not allow the virus to go from one host to the other," Dr Swarup added.

The National Institute of Disaster Management (NIDM), under the Ministry of Home Affairs, has warned of a third COVID-19 wave peak in October in its recent report to the Prime Minister's Office.

The NIDM's report quoted the Reuters' opinion survey of 40 experts that forecasted that the third wave of the COVID-19 pandemic is likely to hit India between July 15 and October 13.

Dr Swarup, however, asserted that the third wave is completely avoidable if Covid-appropriate human behaviour is strictly followed.

"There is clearly the human behaviour will overtake the virus behaviour, and I think if we allow it to be controlled, no way is the third going to happen," Dr Swarup told ANI.

The second COVID-19 wave swept across India in April-May this year with Covid cases breaching the four-lakh mark per day. Several states imposed lockdown to stem the spread of the deadly pathogen. The restrictions started easing up in a phased manner in June as fresh coronavirus cases began dropping and vaccination paced up. But the easing of lockdown came with people crowding hill stations and other public places. The government, in July, issued an advisory to states warning against "blatant violations of Covid norms."

The country has so far administered nearly 58 crore doses of three COVID-19 vaccines - Covaxin, Covishield and Sputnik V. Earlier this month, Johnson &amp; Johnson's was given emergency use approval in India for its single-dose COVID-19 vaccine, whereas Zydus Cadila was given a nod last week.

The third COVID-19 wave will come if "invited" by the human behaviour and that of the virus, said Dr Renu Swarup, Secretary of Department of Biotechnology, Government of India, on Monday.

The third COVID-19 wave will come if "invited" by the human behaviour and that of the virus, said Dr Renu Swarup, Secretary of Department of Biotechnology, Government of India, on Monday. "The virus' behaviour, we know, mutates. We don't have control over that. The more it gets into a larger number of infections, there is more the transmission. Human behaviour is in our control, which involves adopting Covid-appropriate behaviour, i.e. maintaining hygiene, wearing a face mask, following social distancing," Dr Swarup said. Several scientists and epidemiologists, over the last few weeks, have had expressed concerns over the third wave of coronavirus in India as more virulent variants of the virus, like Delta Plus, circulate. "If we continue to do follow COVID-19 protocol and break the chain of transmission, we do not allow the virus to go from one host to the other," Dr Swarup added. The National Institute of Disaster Management (NIDM), under the Ministry of Home Affairs, has warned of a third COVID-19 wave peak in October in its recent report to the Prime Minister's Office. The NIDM's report quoted the Reuters' opinion survey of 40 experts that forecasted that the third wave of the COVID-19 pandemic is likely to hit India between July 15 and October 13. Dr Swarup, however, asserted that the third wave is completely avoidable if Covid-appropriate human behaviour is strictly followed. "There is clearly the human behaviour will overtake the virus behaviour, and I think if we allow it to be controlled, no way is the third going to happen," Dr Swarup told ANI. The second COVID-19 wave swept across India in April-May this year with Covid cases breaching the four-lakh mark per day. Several states imposed lockdown to stem the spread of the deadly pathogen. The restrictions started easing up in a phased manner in June as fresh coronavirus cases began dropping and vaccination paced up. But the easing of lockdown came with people crowding hill stations and other public places. The government, in July, issued an advisory to states warning against "blatant violations of Covid norms." The country has so far administered nearly 58 crore doses of three COVID-19 vaccines - Covaxin, Covishield and Sputnik V. Earlier this month, Johnson & Johnson's was given emergency use approval in India for its single-dose COVID-19 vaccine, whereas Zydus Cadila was given a nod last week.

COVID-19 third wave will come if we invite it: Government

Threats against the Indian-origin community in South Africa do exist after the recent violence, but the government is doing everything in its power to counter it, Mahatma Gandhi's granddaughter Ela Gandhi said on Monday, August 23, 2021.

Protests against the incarceration of former president Jacob Zuma on July 7 rapidly devolved into orgies of looting and arson in the two provinces of KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng.

Zuma has been sentenced for contempt of court after he repeatedly refused to testify at the Commission of Inquiry into State Capture, where several witnesses have implicated him in corruption.

Some media reports on the violence which wracked the provinces of KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng last month said that Indian-origin South Africans bore the brunt of the attack, some even stating that 'many' of the 330 people killed as looters went on the rampage were of Indian origin.

"This is not quite correct. Certainly, there were a number of Indian-owned businesses that were looted or burnt down, but they were among the scores more, many owned by national chain-store groups, that were raided by the looters. There were also no direct attacks on any Indians that we are aware of. As far as deaths go, we believe that only two or three of those killed were of Indian-origin," Gandhi said.

"What I said was that terrorist attacks by anyone anywhere in the world could occur at any time, not just against any particular community in South Africa only," Gandhi said, reacting to some reports in the Indian media quoting her as saying that attacks could happen anytime anywhere.

"We can't deny that such threats do exist, especially advocated by some people on social media, but our government is doing all in its power to address this," she said.

The community leader, who heads up the Gandhi Development Trust based at the Phoenix Settlement started by Mahatma Gandhi during his tenure in South Africa, also commented on reports that there was an increased number of applications by South Africans of Indian origin for OCI cards.

"The Indian missions would be in a better position to answer that, but we know that there are people who have already migrated to places such as Australia who have been trying to get their relatives in South Africa to join them. But the recent violence should not be used as an excuse for that. We should also consider that hundreds of thousands of fourth and fifth generation Indians who consider themselves to be South African citizens are still here, many of them doing their part to assist in reconciliation and rehabilitation projects after the violence," Gandhi said.

Officials at the Indian consulates in Durban and Johannesburg confirmed that there has been an increase in both applications for and enquiries about the OCI card.

Gandhi herself, together with other community leaders in the Indian and black communities, is involved in various projects aimed at reconciliation.

"Inciting calls by some people, including political leaders, which get circulated widely on social media, unfortunately do not help," Gandhi said, in an apparent reference to a statement by the leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), Julius Malema, who has often made anti-Indian remarks.

"What those Indians did there in Phoenix is unforgettable, we will never forgive them for what they did to our people. And those are Indian criminals, they must be called exactly that. We are not going to make any apology about that," Malema had said in an interview with radio station Khaya FM after the recent violence.

There were 22 Black people killed in Phoenix, allegedly at the hands of Indian vigilantes, many of whom are now facing murder and manslaughter charges.

During the riots around the largely Indian area of Phoenix, which is surrounded by three Black informal settlements, the Phoenix Settlement remained untouched as looters raided and burnt down neighbouring businesses.

Advocate Mahomed Saleem Khan (SC) cautioned Malema in a widely circulated social media post that if he persisted with his anti-Indian remarks, he would institute legal proceedings against him.

"(Indians) have honoured South Africa and the African continent with significant, material and continuing contributions towards, inter alia, commercial and cultural development," Khan said.

Popular Indian-origin comedian and social commentator Karou Charou, whose real name is Mahdevan Moodley, also made an online plea to the Black community to ignore the racist remarks on social media and work together with the Indian community to achieve more.

"The majority of people from the informal settlements (around Phoenix) are employed by Indian businesses and households. The Indian community around these informal settlements drives this mini-economy and that is an undeniable fact, whether you like it or not," Moodley said.

Threats against the Indian-origin community in South Africa do exist after the recent violence, but the government is doing everything in its power to counter it, Mahatma Gandhi's granddaughter Ela Gandhi said on Monday, August 23, 2021.

Threats against the Indian-origin community in South Africa do exist after the recent violence, but the government is doing everything in its power to counter it, Mahatma Gandhi's granddaughter Ela Gandhi said on Monday, August 23, 2021. Protests against the incarceration of former president Jacob Zuma on July 7 rapidly devolved into orgies of looting and arson in the two provinces of KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng. Zuma has been sentenced for contempt of court after he repeatedly refused to testify at the Commission of Inquiry into State Capture, where several witnesses have implicated him in corruption. Some media reports on the violence which wracked the provinces of KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng last month said that Indian-origin South Africans bore the brunt of the attack, some even stating that 'many' of the 330 people killed as looters went on the rampage were of Indian origin. "This is not quite correct. Certainly, there were a number of Indian-owned businesses that were looted or burnt down, but they were among the scores more, many owned by national chain-store groups, that were raided by the looters. There were also no direct attacks on any Indians that we are aware of. As far as deaths go, we believe that only two or three of those killed were of Indian-origin," Gandhi said. "What I said was that terrorist attacks by anyone anywhere in the world could occur at any time, not just against any particular community in South Africa only," Gandhi said, reacting to some reports in the Indian media quoting her as saying that attacks could happen anytime anywhere. "We can't deny that such threats do exist, especially advocated by some people on social media, but our government is doing all in its power to address this," she said. The community leader, who heads up the Gandhi Development Trust based at the Phoenix Settlement started by Mahatma Gandhi during his tenure in South Africa, also commented on reports that there was an increased number of applications by South Africans of Indian origin for OCI cards. "The Indian missions would be in a better position to answer that, but we know that there are people who have already migrated to places such as Australia who have been trying to get their relatives in South Africa to join them. But the recent violence should not be used as an excuse for that. We should also consider that hundreds of thousands of fourth and fifth generation Indians who consider themselves to be South African citizens are still here, many of them doing their part to assist in reconciliation and rehabilitation projects after the violence," Gandhi said. Officials at the Indian consulates in Durban and Johannesburg confirmed that there has been an increase in both applications for and enquiries about the OCI card. Gandhi herself, together with other community leaders in the Indian and black communities, is involved in various projects aimed at reconciliation. "Inciting calls by some people, including political leaders, which get circulated widely on social media, unfortunately do not help," Gandhi said, in an apparent reference to a statement by the leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), Julius Malema, who has often made anti-Indian remarks. "What those Indians did there in Phoenix is unforgettable, we will never forgive them for what they did to our people. And those are Indian criminals, they must be called exactly that. We are not going to make any apology about that," Malema had said in an interview with radio station Khaya FM after the recent violence. There were 22 Black people killed in Phoenix, allegedly at the hands of Indian vigilantes, many of whom are now facing murder and manslaughter charges. During the riots around the largely Indian area of Phoenix, which is surrounded by three Black informal settlements, the Phoenix Settlement remained untouched as looters raided and burnt down neighbouring businesses. Advocate Mahomed Saleem Khan (SC) cautioned Malema in a widely circulated social media post that if he persisted with his anti-Indian remarks, he would institute legal proceedings against him. "(Indians) have honoured South Africa and the African continent with significant, material and continuing contributions towards, inter alia, commercial and cultural development," Khan said. Popular Indian-origin comedian and social commentator Karou Charou, whose real name is Mahdevan Moodley, also made an online plea to the Black community to ignore the racist remarks on social media and work together with the Indian community to achieve more. "The majority of people from the informal settlements (around Phoenix) are employed by Indian businesses and households. The Indian community around these informal settlements drives this mini-economy and that is an undeniable fact, whether you like it or not," Moodley said.

Threats against Indians in South Africa do exist, but government doing all it can to counter this: Mahatma Gandhi's grand-daughter

Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal inaugurated the "country's first smog tower" at Connaught Place in Delhi on Monday and said it will prove to be a milestone and many such structures can be installed in the city if the pilot project yields results.

He also said that the concentration of PM2.5 has reduced from 150 micrograms per cubic metre to 100 ?g/m? and that of PM10 has dipped from 300 ?g/m? to 150 ?g/m? in the national capital since 2014 due to the efforts made in the last few years.

PM2.5 refers to fine particles which penetrate deep into the body and fuel inflammation in the lungs and respiratory tract, leading to the risk of cardiovascular and respiratory problems, including a weak immune system.

"This is the first such smog tower in the country. It's a new technology. We have imported it from the US. The structure will suck polluted air from above and release clean air from below. It will purify 1,000 cubic metres of air per second," Kejriwal told reporters.

Since it's a new technology, it is being implemented on an experimental basis. Tata Projects Limited (TPL) built the smog tower with technical support from IIT-Bombay and IIT-Delhi, which will analyse its data. NBCC India Ltd. Is the project management consultant, he said.

"The experts will analyse the functioning of the smog tower and tell us if it is effective. If it is successful, many such smog towers can be installed across Delhi. If not, we will work on some other technology... I think it will prove to be a milestone," he added.

"Data analysis will start immediately. The initial trends will be available within a month... I am also excited to know if we succeeded or not," the chief minister said.

The over 24-metre-tall structure will help improve air quality in a radius of around 1 km, according to officials.

The Delhi cabinet had approved the smog tower project in October last year.

A two-year pilot study will ascertain the effectiveness of the smog tower. A control room has been set up at the site to monitor its operations, an official said.

Another 25-metre-tall smog tower, built by the central government at Anand Vihar, is expected to become operational by August 31.

The Delhi Pollution Control Committee is the nodal agency for the smog tower at Connaught Place, while the Central Pollution Control Board is the nodal agency for the one at Anand Vihar.

The two towers will have 1,200 air filters each developed by experts at the University of Minnesota in the United States, which also helped design a 100-metre smog tower in Xian, China.

The smog towers, built at a cost of Rs 22 crore each, are estimated to reduce the concentration of PM2.5 up to 70 per cent within a one-km radius.

The Supreme Court had in January last year directed the central government to construct a smog tower to reduce pollution at Anand Vihar and the Delhi government to install another such structure at Connaught Place in three months.&nbsp;

Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal inaugurated the "country's first smog tower" at Connaught Place in Delhi on Monday and said it will prove to be a milestone and many such structures can be installed in the city if the pilot project yields results.

Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal inaugurated the "country's first smog tower" at Connaught Place in Delhi on Monday and said it will prove to be a milestone and many such structures can be installed in the city if the pilot project yields results. He also said that the concentration of PM2.5 has reduced from 150 micrograms per cubic metre to 100 ?g/m? and that of PM10 has dipped from 300 ?g/m? to 150 ?g/m? in the national capital since 2014 due to the efforts made in the last few years. PM2.5 refers to fine particles which penetrate deep into the body and fuel inflammation in the lungs and respiratory tract, leading to the risk of cardiovascular and respiratory problems, including a weak immune system. "This is the first such smog tower in the country. It's a new technology. We have imported it from the US. The structure will suck polluted air from above and release clean air from below. It will purify 1,000 cubic metres of air per second," Kejriwal told reporters. Since it's a new technology, it is being implemented on an experimental basis. Tata Projects Limited (TPL) built the smog tower with technical support from IIT-Bombay and IIT-Delhi, which will analyse its data. NBCC India Ltd. Is the project management consultant, he said. "The experts will analyse the functioning of the smog tower and tell us if it is effective. If it is successful, many such smog towers can be installed across Delhi. If not, we will work on some other technology... I think it will prove to be a milestone," he added. "Data analysis will start immediately. The initial trends will be available within a month... I am also excited to know if we succeeded or not," the chief minister said. The over 24-metre-tall structure will help improve air quality in a radius of around 1 km, according to officials. The Delhi cabinet had approved the smog tower project in October last year. A two-year pilot study will ascertain the effectiveness of the smog tower. A control room has been set up at the site to monitor its operations, an official said. Another 25-metre-tall smog tower, built by the central government at Anand Vihar, is expected to become operational by August 31. The Delhi Pollution Control Committee is the nodal agency for the smog tower at Connaught Place, while the Central Pollution Control Board is the nodal agency for the one at Anand Vihar. The two towers will have 1,200 air filters each developed by experts at the University of Minnesota in the United States, which also helped design a 100-metre smog tower in Xian, China. The smog towers, built at a cost of Rs 22 crore each, are estimated to reduce the concentration of PM2.5 up to 70 per cent within a one-km radius. The Supreme Court had in January last year directed the central government to construct a smog tower to reduce pollution at Anand Vihar and the Delhi government to install another such structure at Connaught Place in three months.

India's first smog tower inaugurated in New Delhi's Connaught Place

Kejriwal inaugurates India's first smog tower in Delhi

Two persons out of the 146 passengers who landed in Delhi from Afghanistan on Monday were found positive for COVID-19.

Speaking to ANI, Rajendra Kumar, Sub Divisional Magistrate said, "Two people coming from Afghanistan have been found COVID positive. They have been sent to LNJP Hospital."

The second batch of 146 Indian nationals who were evacuated from Afghanistan via Doha arrived in the national capital on Monday on various flights.

India on Sunday brought back nearly 400 people including 329 of its nationals in three different flights.

Earlier on Saturday, government sources told ANI that India has been allowed to operate two flights per day from Kabul to evacuate its nationals stranded in Afghanistan.

Permission has been granted by the American and North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) forces, which have been controlling operations of the Hamid Karzai International Airport after the Afghan capital was taken over by the Taliban on August 15.

Hundreds of Indian nationals have to be taken out of Kabul, which is now under the Taliban's control. India is airlifting its citizens through Dushanbe in Tajikistan and Qatar.

Two persons out of the 146 passengers who landed in Delhi from Afghanistan on Monday were found positive for COVID-19. Speaking to ANI, Rajendra Kumar, Sub Divisional Magistrate said, "Two people coming from Afghanistan have been found COVID positive.

Two persons out of the 146 passengers who landed in Delhi from Afghanistan on Monday were found positive for COVID-19. Speaking to ANI, Rajendra Kumar, Sub Divisional Magistrate said, "Two people coming from Afghanistan have been found COVID positive. They have been sent to LNJP Hospital." The second batch of 146 Indian nationals who were evacuated from Afghanistan via Doha arrived in the national capital on Monday on various flights. India on Sunday brought back nearly 400 people including 329 of its nationals in three different flights. Earlier on Saturday, government sources told ANI that India has been allowed to operate two flights per day from Kabul to evacuate its nationals stranded in Afghanistan. Permission has been granted by the American and North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) forces, which have been controlling operations of the Hamid Karzai International Airport after the Afghan capital was taken over by the Taliban on August 15. Hundreds of Indian nationals have to be taken out of Kabul, which is now under the Taliban's control. India is airlifting its citizens through Dushanbe in Tajikistan and Qatar.

Two passengers from Afghanistan test COVID-19 positive in New Delhi 

Former Uttar Pradesh chief minister Kalyan Singh was cremated Monday with senior leaders, party workers and a large number of local people congregating at Bansi Ghat in Bulandshahr's Narora town for the last rites.

Rajveer Singh lit his father's pyre at the funeral attended by senior BJP leaders, including Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Union Women and Child Development Minister Smriti Irani and Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami.

The two-time CM, who had also been the Rajasthan Governor, died at a Lucknow hospital on Saturday after spending weeks in the ICU.

A Hindutva icon, Kalyan Singh was the Uttar Pradesh chief minister when 'Kar Sevaks" demolished the Babri Masjid in Ayodhya on December 6, 1992.

The others present at the cremation ground were UP Deputy CM Keshav Prasad Maurya, BJP leader Uma Bharti, besides a number of state ministers, BJP workers and local people, officials said.

They said Kalyan Singh was cremated with full state honours after his mortal remains were brought here from Ahilya Bai Holkar stadium in Aligarh, where they were kept for the people to pay their last respect. 
 
To honour the former Uttar Pradesh chief minister and BJP veteran, Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya announced that the road leading to the Ram temple in Ayodhya will be renamed 'Kalyan Singh Marg.'&nbsp;

From Aligarh, the late BJP leader's body was first taken to Atrauli, near his native village Madholi, and was kept there for 'darshan'', before being taken to Narora.

In Atrauli, Kalyan Singh's mortal remains were kept in the PWD Guest House, where various dignitaries, including Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Madhya Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chauhan, UP CM Yogi Adityanath, BJP state president Swatantra Dev Singh paid their tributes.

A Lodhi leader, Kalyan Singh was instrumental in the rise of the BJP to power in Uttar Pradesh in the 1990s.

He is survived by his wife Ramvati Devi, son Rajveer Singh, who is the Lok Sabha MP from Etah, and grandson Sandeep Singh, who is the minister of state for finance, technical education and medical education in Uttar Pradesh.

Former Uttar Pradesh chief minister Kalyan Singh was cremated Monday with senior leaders, party workers and a large number of local people congregating at Bansi Ghat in Bulandshahr's Narora town for the last rites.

Former Uttar Pradesh chief minister Kalyan Singh was cremated Monday with senior leaders, party workers and a large number of local people congregating at Bansi Ghat in Bulandshahr's Narora town for the last rites. Rajveer Singh lit his father's pyre at the funeral attended by senior BJP leaders, including Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Union Women and Child Development Minister Smriti Irani and Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami. The two-time CM, who had also been the Rajasthan Governor, died at a Lucknow hospital on Saturday after spending weeks in the ICU. A Hindutva icon, Kalyan Singh was the Uttar Pradesh chief minister when 'Kar Sevaks" demolished the Babri Masjid in Ayodhya on December 6, 1992. The others present at the cremation ground were UP Deputy CM Keshav Prasad Maurya, BJP leader Uma Bharti, besides a number of state ministers, BJP workers and local people, officials said. They said Kalyan Singh was cremated with full state honours after his mortal remains were brought here from Ahilya Bai Holkar stadium in Aligarh, where they were kept for the people to pay their last respect. To honour the former Uttar Pradesh chief minister and BJP veteran, Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya announced that the road leading to the Ram temple in Ayodhya will be renamed 'Kalyan Singh Marg.' From Aligarh, the late BJP leader's body was first taken to Atrauli, near his native village Madholi, and was kept there for 'darshan'', before being taken to Narora. In Atrauli, Kalyan Singh's mortal remains were kept in the PWD Guest House, where various dignitaries, including Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Madhya Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chauhan, UP CM Yogi Adityanath, BJP state president Swatantra Dev Singh paid their tributes. A Lodhi leader, Kalyan Singh was instrumental in the rise of the BJP to power in Uttar Pradesh in the 1990s. He is survived by his wife Ramvati Devi, son Rajveer Singh, who is the Lok Sabha MP from Etah, and grandson Sandeep Singh, who is the minister of state for finance, technical education and medical education in Uttar Pradesh.

Kalyan Singh cremated with full state honours, Ram temple approach road to be named after him

Taking to Twitter on Monday, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Indian players for their exemplary performance in the World Athletics Under-20 Championships in Nairobi and the junior world wrestling competition.&nbsp;

The sportspersons have won two silver medals and a bronze medal at World Athletics Under-20 Championships in Nairobi. The men's and women's contingent of the country has won a total of 11 medals including four silver medals at the Junior World Wrestling Championships 2021.&nbsp;

The prime minister said it is a great sign that athletics is gaining popularity across India. He also congratulated the teams and shared wishes for future endeavours.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Picking speed and success! Congratulations to our athletes for bringing home 2 Silver medals and a Bronze medal at <a href="https://twitter.com/WAU20Nairobi21?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@WAU20Nairobi21</a>. Athletics is gaining popularity across India and this is a great sign for the times to come. Best wishes to our hardworking athletes.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1429708824743579661?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 23, 2021</a></blockquote>
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On the microblogging site, Modi said, "Picking speed and success! Congratulations to our athletes for bringing home 2 Silver medals and a Bronze medal at @WAU20Nairobi21. Athletics is gaining popularity across India and this is a great sign for the times to come. Best wishes to our hardworking athletes."&nbsp;

Modi also tweeted: "More power to the talented wrestlers! At the Junior World Wrestling Championships 2021, our Men's and Women's contingent comes back with a total of 11 medals including 4 Silvers. Kudos to the team for the success and best wishes for their future endeavours."&nbsp;

Taking to Twitter on Monday, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Indian players for their exemplary performance in the World Athletics Under-20 Championships in Nairobi and the junior world wrestling competition.

Taking to Twitter on Monday, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Indian players for their exemplary performance in the World Athletics Under-20 Championships in Nairobi and the junior world wrestling competition. The sportspersons have won two silver medals and a bronze medal at World Athletics Under-20 Championships in Nairobi. The men's and women's contingent of the country has won a total of 11 medals including four silver medals at the Junior World Wrestling Championships 2021. The prime minister said it is a great sign that athletics is gaining popularity across India. He also congratulated the teams and shared wishes for future endeavours. Picking speed and success! Congratulations to our athletes for bringing home 2 Silver medals and a Bronze medal at @WAU20Nairobi21. Athletics is gaining popularity across India and this is a great sign for the times to come. Best wishes to our hardworking athletes. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 23, 2021 × On the microblogging site, Modi said, "Picking speed and success! Congratulations to our athletes for bringing home 2 Silver medals and a Bronze medal at @WAU20Nairobi21. Athletics is gaining popularity across India and this is a great sign for the times to come. Best wishes to our hardworking athletes." Modi also tweeted: "More power to the talented wrestlers! At the Junior World Wrestling Championships 2021, our Men's and Women's contingent comes back with a total of 11 medals including 4 Silvers. Kudos to the team for the success and best wishes for their future endeavours."

PM Modi congratulates Indian players for exemplary performance at World Athletics Under-20

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will brief parliamentary leaders of various political parties on August 26 on the developments in war-torn Afghanistan.&nbsp;Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi said the physical briefing will take place at 11 am on Thursday in the Parliament House Annexe.

"Floor Leaders of Political Parties would be briefed by EAM @DrSJaishankar on the present situation in Afghanistan, on 26th August, 11am in Main Committee Room, PHA, New Delhi. Invites are being sent through email. All concerned are requested to attend," Joshi tweeted.

Watch:&nbsp;146 Indians evacuated from Kabul repatriated to Delhi via Doha

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Jaishankar said Prime Minister Narendra Modi instructed the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA)) to brief the floor leaders of the political parties. "In view of developments in Afghanistan, PM @narendramodi has instructed that MEA brief Floor Leaders of political parties. Minister of Parliamentary Affairs @JoshiPralhad will be intimating further details," Jaishankar tweeted earlier.

The government's briefing is expected to focus on its evacuation mission from Afghanistan as well as its assessment of the situation in that country. The Taliban swept across Afghanistan this month, seizing control of almost all key towns and cities, including Kabul, following the withdrawal of the US forces from the country.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kabul-evacuations-several-indians-return-to-home-country-from-many-destinations-407551">Kabul evacuations: Several Indians return to home country from many destinations&nbsp;</a>

As part of its evacuation mission from Afghanistan, India has already brought back around 730 people including members of the Afghan Sikh and Hindu communities. India on Monday brought back 146 of its nationals in four different flights from Qatar's capital Doha, days after they were evacuated from Afghanistan by NATO and American aircraft in view of the deteriorating security situation in the war-torn country.

On Sunday, 392 people including two Afghan lawmakers were evacuated in three different flights under the evacuation mission. The Taliban seized control of Kabul on August 15. Within two days of the Taliban's capture of Kabul, India had evacuated 200 people, including the Indian envoy and other staffers of its embassy in the Afghan capital.

The first evacuation flight brought back over 40 people, mostly staffers at the Indian embassy, on August 16. The second aircraft evacuated around 150 people including Indian diplomats, officials, security personnel and some stranded Indians from Kabul on August 17.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will brief parliamentary leaders of various political parties on August 26 on the developments in war-torn Afghanistan. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi said the physical briefing will take place at 11 am on Thursday in the Parliament House Annexe.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will brief parliamentary leaders of various political parties on August 26 on the developments in war-torn Afghanistan. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi said the physical briefing will take place at 11 am on Thursday in the Parliament House Annexe. "Floor Leaders of Political Parties would be briefed by EAM @DrSJaishankar on the present situation in Afghanistan, on 26th August, 11am in Main Committee Room, PHA, New Delhi. Invites are being sent through email. All concerned are requested to attend," Joshi tweeted. Watch: 146 Indians evacuated from Kabul repatriated to Delhi via Doha × Jaishankar said Prime Minister Narendra Modi instructed the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA)) to brief the floor leaders of the political parties. "In view of developments in Afghanistan, PM @narendramodi has instructed that MEA brief Floor Leaders of political parties. Minister of Parliamentary Affairs @JoshiPralhad will be intimating further details," Jaishankar tweeted earlier. The government's briefing is expected to focus on its evacuation mission from Afghanistan as well as its assessment of the situation in that country. The Taliban swept across Afghanistan this month, seizing control of almost all key towns and cities, including Kabul, following the withdrawal of the US forces from the country. Also Read | Kabul evacuations: Several Indians return to home country from many destinations As part of its evacuation mission from Afghanistan, India has already brought back around 730 people including members of the Afghan Sikh and Hindu communities. India on Monday brought back 146 of its nationals in four different flights from Qatar's capital Doha, days after they were evacuated from Afghanistan by NATO and American aircraft in view of the deteriorating security situation in the war-torn country. On Sunday, 392 people including two Afghan lawmakers were evacuated in three different flights under the evacuation mission. The Taliban seized control of Kabul on August 15. Within two days of the Taliban's capture of Kabul, India had evacuated 200 people, including the Indian envoy and other staffers of its embassy in the Afghan capital. The first evacuation flight brought back over 40 people, mostly staffers at the Indian embassy, on August 16. The second aircraft evacuated around 150 people including Indian diplomats, officials, security personnel and some stranded Indians from Kabul on August 17.

Indian external affairs minister Jaishankar to brief political party leaders on developments in Afghanistan

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