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An award-winning 'paper mache' artist in Srinagar, Maqbool Jan has been making a masterpiece.

He is making a map of Srinagar city on a cloth by using 'paper mache' techniques. He wants to see the&nbsp;masterpiece displayed in the Indian Parliament.&nbsp;

''My actual wish is that this should be put up in Parliament. Or if they can put it in the Kashmir assembly or a big art gallery. The new generation should see our culture through our art. I would be extremely happy if it was put up in Parliament. It would give a boost to artisans of Kashmir Valley. They would make better things in the future,&nbsp;'' said artist Maqbool Jan.

Maqbool has been working on the&nbsp;map for over&nbsp;a year and says it will take a few more months to complete. The inspiration for the&nbsp;map has come from a shawl which&nbsp;is displayed&nbsp;at the Srinagar museum. The map on the&nbsp;shawl is drawn by Sozni work. He wants to recreate the same with 'paper mache'.&nbsp;

''I got the idea from a shawl in the museum and wanted to bring that art alive again. I wanted to show how Dal Lake used to be, how old Srinagar looked like and that's the reason I created this. The new generation should take up this art. It took me a year to make this and it will take me a month more to complete this. I thought about the colour scheme first and how water colours used to be. How our shrines and mosques and gardens used to look,&nbsp;'' said Maqbool Jan.

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There is no school where the art of paper machie is taught to the youngsters of Kashmir Valley. The artists have been demanding that a degree course should be introduced by the institutions of Kashmir Valley to uplift the&nbsp;art form.&nbsp;

''Our children are extremely talented but we don't have any local designers. We have to get designers from outside, so we want the government to start courses so that students can learn here. Our children want to have a degree before starting&nbsp;work, they don't want to leave education and then pick this up. We want the government to introduce a degree course. They say artists are not respected here,'' said Maqbool.&nbsp;

The centuries-old art is being revived by artists&nbsp;like Maqbool Jan. He is making sure that this art form survives in tough times and emerges again in the Kashmir Valley.

Maqbool has won four&nbsp;national and one international award for his contributions towards this art.

An award-winning 'paper mache' artist in Srinagar, Maqbool Jan has been making a masterpiece. He is making a map of Srinagar city on a cloth by using 'paper mache' techniques.

An award-winning 'paper mache' artist in Srinagar, Maqbool Jan has been making a masterpiece. He is making a map of Srinagar city on a cloth by using 'paper mache' techniques. He wants to see the masterpiece displayed in the Indian Parliament. ''My actual wish is that this should be put up in Parliament. Or if they can put it in the Kashmir assembly or a big art gallery. The new generation should see our culture through our art. I would be extremely happy if it was put up in Parliament. It would give a boost to artisans of Kashmir Valley. They would make better things in the future, '' said artist Maqbool Jan. Maqbool has been working on the map for over a year and says it will take a few more months to complete. The inspiration for the map has come from a shawl which is displayed at the Srinagar museum. The map on the shawl is drawn by Sozni work. He wants to recreate the same with 'paper mache'. ''I got the idea from a shawl in the museum and wanted to bring that art alive again. I wanted to show how Dal Lake used to be, how old Srinagar looked like and that's the reason I created this. The new generation should take up this art. It took me a year to make this and it will take me a month more to complete this. I thought about the colour scheme first and how water colours used to be. How our shrines and mosques and gardens used to look, '' said Maqbool Jan. There is no school where the art of paper machie is taught to the youngsters of Kashmir Valley. The artists have been demanding that a degree course should be introduced by the institutions of Kashmir Valley to uplift the art form. ''Our children are extremely talented but we don't have any local designers. We have to get designers from outside, so we want the government to start courses so that students can learn here. Our children want to have a degree before starting work, they don't want to leave education and then pick this up. We want the government to introduce a degree course. They say artists are not respected here,'' said Maqbool. The centuries-old art is being revived by artists like Maqbool Jan. He is making sure that this art form survives in tough times and emerges again in the Kashmir Valley. Maqbool has won four national and one international award for his contributions towards this art.

Award-winning paper mache artist makes Srinagar map masterpiece

Tensions have escalated along the border of two North-East states of India. The policemen of Assam and Mizoram fired at each other during which 5 personnel of Assam police were killed and 50 others were injured.

Assam-Mizoram border dispute: 5 Assam policemen killed in violent clashes with Mizoram

India remembers its People’s President and veteran scientist Dr APJ Abdul Kalam on his sixth death anniversary. 
 
For a large number of Indians, Dr Kalam is known as a fisherman’s son-turned-scientist, who rose to the top post. 
 
Fondly remembered as the ‘Missile Man’, Kalam worked for the Indian Government’s aerospace and defence establishments.

But this very ‘Missile Man’ Kalam had a narrow miss from an explosion, during his days as a young scientist with the fledgling Indian Space Research Organization. 
 
This and much more is revealed in veteran ISRO Scientist Padma Bhushan Nambi Narayanan’s autobiography- 'Ready To Fire'.&nbsp; 
 
Watch | WION Gravitas: Who is Nambi Narayanan? All you need to know

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Cut to 1967, ISRO (then known as INCOSPAR) was in its nascent stage and operated out of a small church in the Thumba Fishing hamlet, in Kerala’s capital Thiruvananthapuram.

Most of the scientists working there were young graduates with a drive to experiment and learn as much as they could about a new discipline - Rocket science.

All they had were experimental rockets (known as sounding rockets) that were fired to an altitude of 100kms or less.

Most of these sounding rockets were offered by friendly foreign countries to conduct upper-atmospheric experiments.

For perspective, the sounding rockets of that era are a molehill when compared to the mountains (the PSLV and GSLV series) that ISRO launches today.&nbsp;

While preparing for the launch of one such French Centaure rocket, a gunpowder-based igniter was being made by an ISRO scientist Nambi Narayanan.

Once at the right altitude, the igniter would trigger a small explosion and release the rocket’s chemical payload into the atmosphere, thus helping conduct the experiment.

However, one day before the launch, Narayanan came across a scientific principle that their gunpowder would not fire at the height of 100km.

When Narayanan apprised Kalam of the same, he initially refused to accept it. But later, on Narayanan’s persuasion, the duo went on to test the theory.&nbsp;

The duo set up a contraption where a sealed jar of gunpowder was connected to a vacuum pump (to create upper atmosphere-like thin air and low pressure). Multiple attempts were made to ignite it, but the 1942 theory by scientists Able and Noble was dead right!

Wanting to see up-close, this phenomenon of gunpowder behaving in an inert manner, a young Kalam poked his nose into the gunpowder-laden jar. The countdown had started and the assistant was ready to ignite the gunpowder, but that’s when Nambi Narayanan realized that the vacuum pump was not properly connected to the jar.

This meant that the gunpowder would explode as usual.

Within a second, Nambi Narayanan leapt across and pushed Kalam down to safety, before a blast rocked the room and glass splinters flew all across. After the smoke had settled, Kalam sat up and told Nambi, "See, it fired". This was how the young duo proved that Able and Noble were right and also that gunpowder would fire at normal pressure.&nbsp;

While Abdul Kalam later went on to work in various roles in ISRO, DRDO, and other government organizations, Nambi Narayanan went on to become the Father of Liquid Propulsion Rocket Engine Technology in India.

Narayanan and his team had developed the Vikas Engine (which was based on the French Viking engine)-a pioneering piece of technology that is still a crucial part of the PSLV and GSLV rockets even today.

It is noteworthy that Kalam was a proponent of solid-propulsion (using solid fuels) whereas Nambi Narayanan was a proponent of liquid-propellant rockets. Nambi always believed that India had to focus on liquid propulsion, in order to build heavy-lift capability rockets.

Eventually, Nambi’s expertise and foresight in liquid propulsion proved right and gave birth to India’s PSLV and GSLV rockets, whereas Kalam’s expertise in solid propulsion gave India its arsenal of missiles.

Nambi Narayanan was heading India’s Cryogenic engine development programme in 1994 when he was wrongly jailed and tortured by the Kerala Police and Intelligence bureau.

This was a fabricated spy case, known as the ISRO spy case. The Supreme Court of India had cleared Nambi of all charges and the government of India had awarded him the Padma Bhushan. The investigation into a larger conspiracy by the Kerala Police (during the then Congress-led Govt) and Intelligence Bureau officials is underway today.

India remembers its People’s President and veteran scientist Dr APJ Abdul Kalam on his sixth death anniversary. For a large number of Indians, Dr Kalam is known as a fisherman’s son-turned-scientist, who rose to the top post.

India remembers its People’s President and veteran scientist Dr APJ Abdul Kalam on his sixth death anniversary. For a large number of Indians, Dr Kalam is known as a fisherman’s son-turned-scientist, who rose to the top post. Fondly remembered as the ‘Missile Man’, Kalam worked for the Indian Government’s aerospace and defence establishments. But this very ‘Missile Man’ Kalam had a narrow miss from an explosion, during his days as a young scientist with the fledgling Indian Space Research Organization. This and much more is revealed in veteran ISRO Scientist Padma Bhushan Nambi Narayanan’s autobiography- 'Ready To Fire'. Watch | WION Gravitas: Who is Nambi Narayanan? All you need to know Cut to 1967, ISRO (then known as INCOSPAR) was in its nascent stage and operated out of a small church in the Thumba Fishing hamlet, in Kerala’s capital Thiruvananthapuram. Most of the scientists working there were young graduates with a drive to experiment and learn as much as they could about a new discipline - Rocket science. All they had were experimental rockets (known as sounding rockets) that were fired to an altitude of 100kms or less. Most of these sounding rockets were offered by friendly foreign countries to conduct upper-atmospheric experiments. For perspective, the sounding rockets of that era are a molehill when compared to the mountains (the PSLV and GSLV series) that ISRO launches today. While preparing for the launch of one such French Centaure rocket, a gunpowder-based igniter was being made by an ISRO scientist Nambi Narayanan. Once at the right altitude, the igniter would trigger a small explosion and release the rocket’s chemical payload into the atmosphere, thus helping conduct the experiment. However, one day before the launch, Narayanan came across a scientific principle that their gunpowder would not fire at the height of 100km. When Narayanan apprised Kalam of the same, he initially refused to accept it. But later, on Narayanan’s persuasion, the duo went on to test the theory. The duo set up a contraption where a sealed jar of gunpowder was connected to a vacuum pump (to create upper atmosphere-like thin air and low pressure). Multiple attempts were made to ignite it, but the 1942 theory by scientists Able and Noble was dead right! Wanting to see up-close, this phenomenon of gunpowder behaving in an inert manner, a young Kalam poked his nose into the gunpowder-laden jar. The countdown had started and the assistant was ready to ignite the gunpowder, but that’s when Nambi Narayanan realized that the vacuum pump was not properly connected to the jar. This meant that the gunpowder would explode as usual. Within a second, Nambi Narayanan leapt across and pushed Kalam down to safety, before a blast rocked the room and glass splinters flew all across. After the smoke had settled, Kalam sat up and told Nambi, "See, it fired". This was how the young duo proved that Able and Noble were right and also that gunpowder would fire at normal pressure. While Abdul Kalam later went on to work in various roles in ISRO, DRDO, and other government organizations, Nambi Narayanan went on to become the Father of Liquid Propulsion Rocket Engine Technology in India. Narayanan and his team had developed the Vikas Engine (which was based on the French Viking engine)-a pioneering piece of technology that is still a crucial part of the PSLV and GSLV rockets even today. It is noteworthy that Kalam was a proponent of solid-propulsion (using solid fuels) whereas Nambi Narayanan was a proponent of liquid-propellant rockets. Nambi always believed that India had to focus on liquid propulsion, in order to build heavy-lift capability rockets. Eventually, Nambi’s expertise and foresight in liquid propulsion proved right and gave birth to India’s PSLV and GSLV rockets, whereas Kalam’s expertise in solid propulsion gave India its arsenal of missiles. Nambi Narayanan was heading India’s Cryogenic engine development programme in 1994 when he was wrongly jailed and tortured by the Kerala Police and Intelligence bureau. This was a fabricated spy case, known as the ISRO spy case. The Supreme Court of India had cleared Nambi of all charges and the government of India had awarded him the Padma Bhushan. The investigation into a larger conspiracy by the Kerala Police (during the then Congress-led Govt) and Intelligence Bureau officials is underway today.

When scientist Nambi Narayanan saved Dr APJ Abdul Kalam's life at an ISRO lab

The last 2 months have seen 2 important SCO meetings under Tajikistan's leadership. This includes, SCO National security advisor's meet and foreign ministers meet. The SCO foreign minister meet earlier this month saw External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar and Chinese FM Wang Yi holding a meeting on the sidelines.

SCO Defence minsiter meet: Rajnath Singh to leave for Tajikistan

Following the declaration of Vijay Mallya as "bankrupt" by the UK High Court, the fugitive businessman claimed that the Enforcement Directorate is seizing assets "worth ₹140 billion at the behest of government banks against a debt of ₹62 billion."

Mallya tweeted that the SBI-led consortium of banks had asked "court to make me bankrupt as they may have to return money to the ED," which he described as "incredible."&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/uk-court-declares-vijay-mallya-bankrupt-allowing-indian-banks-to-pursue-recovery-400877">Also read | UK court declares Vijay Mallya bankrupt, allowing Indian Banks to pursue recovery</a> 
 
"ED attach my assets worth 14K crores at behest of Govt Banks against debt of 6.2K crores.They restore assets to Banks who recover 9K crores in cash and retain security over 5K crores more.Banks ask Court to make me Bankrupt as they may have to return money to the ED. Incredible," he tweeted.

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ED attach my assets worth 14K crores at behest of Govt Banks against debt of 6.2K crores.They restore assets to Banks who recover 9K crores in cash and retain security over 5K crores more.Banks ask Court to make me Bankrupt as they may have to return money to the ED. Incredible.
— Vijay Mallya (@TheVijayMallya) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheVijayMallya/status/1419724187325845508?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
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On July 26, the London High Court declared the fugitive Indian businessman bankrupt, in a major victory for Indian banks.

This will clear the way for the group of Indian banks led by the State Bank of India (SBI) to seek a worldwide freezing order to seize Mallya's Indian assets in order to recover debt owed by his now-defunct Kingfisher Airlines.

"As at 15:42 (UK time), I adjudicate Dr Mallya bankrupt," Chief Insolvencies and Companies Court (ICC) Judge Michael Briggs said in his ruling during a virtual hearing of the Chancery Division of the High Court in London.

The Indian banks, represented by the law firm TLT LLP and barrister Marcia Shekerdemian, had argued for the bankruptcy order to be granted in favour of the Indian banks.

(With inputs from agencies)

Following the declaration of Vijay Mallya as "bankrupt" by the UK High Court, the fugitive businessman claimed that the Enforcement Directorate is seizing assets "worth ₹140 billion at the behest of government banks against a debt of ₹62 billion.

Following the declaration of Vijay Mallya as "bankrupt" by the UK High Court, the fugitive businessman claimed that the Enforcement Directorate is seizing assets "worth ₹140 billion at the behest of government banks against a debt of ₹62 billion." Mallya tweeted that the SBI-led consortium of banks had asked "court to make me bankrupt as they may have to return money to the ED," which he described as "incredible." Also read | UK court declares Vijay Mallya bankrupt, allowing Indian Banks to pursue recovery "ED attach my assets worth 14K crores at behest of Govt Banks against debt of 6.2K crores.They restore assets to Banks who recover 9K crores in cash and retain security over 5K crores more.Banks ask Court to make me Bankrupt as they may have to return money to the ED. Incredible," he tweeted. ED attach my assets worth 14K crores at behest of Govt Banks against debt of 6.2K crores.They restore assets to Banks who recover 9K crores in cash and retain security over 5K crores more.Banks ask Court to make me Bankrupt as they may have to return money to the ED. Incredible. — Vijay Mallya (@TheVijayMallya) July 26, 2021 × On July 26, the London High Court declared the fugitive Indian businessman bankrupt, in a major victory for Indian banks. This will clear the way for the group of Indian banks led by the State Bank of India (SBI) to seek a worldwide freezing order to seize Mallya's Indian assets in order to recover debt owed by his now-defunct Kingfisher Airlines. "As at 15:42 (UK time), I adjudicate Dr Mallya bankrupt," Chief Insolvencies and Companies Court (ICC) Judge Michael Briggs said in his ruling during a virtual hearing of the Chancery Division of the High Court in London. The Indian banks, represented by the law firm TLT LLP and barrister Marcia Shekerdemian, had argued for the bankruptcy order to be granted in favour of the Indian banks. (With inputs from agencies)

Attaching ₹140 billion assets over ₹62 billion debt 'incredible': Mallya on being declared bankrupt

A first-of-its-kind concert took place in Chennai where plants became audiences. In this virtual series concert artists performed without actual audiences and maintained adequate social distancing norms. The organizers told that a special tree plantation drive will also be carried out after this programme.

India: First-of-its kind concert takes place in Chennai

Even as the situation remains precarious in Afghanistan with the Taliban making territorial gains, India has backed constitutional continuity in Kabul in case of any power-sharing pact.

Power-sharing is one of the key points of discussion that are going on to resolve the deteriorating situation in Afghanistan.

"What we have been saying is that there is a system in place for last more than 20 years, there is a constitution in place. If we replace the existing system and place a new system, the Afghan society may be&nbsp;impacted", officials said.

Representatives of the Afghan government and Taliban have been holding talks in Doha, also known as intra-Afghan talks. The intra-Afghan talks in Doha have seen little progress as it looks like the Taliban is using it as a delaying tactic and trying to buy time. The Afghan government side has been calling for an early ceasefire&nbsp;while the Taliban is keen on the release of around 7000 prisoners.

India's backing of constitutional continuity in Kabul comes even as it has been a strong supporter of the Afghan government&nbsp;which it has made clear multiple times. The current Afghan constitution was adopted in January 2004 and provides for an elected president and a National Assembly.

Meanwhile, the security situation in the country continues to deteriorate as the Taliban aims to capture more territory, especially in rural areas. An uptick was seen as US forces began withdrawing from the country. According to US&nbsp;Central Command, it has completed more than 95 per cent&nbsp;of the entire withdrawal process.

So far increased violence is being seen in Kandahar province and in a new development, the group has focused on north Afghanistan to reduce any resistance.

The Nothern Alliance led by legendary Ahmad Shah Massoud in 1990s led to a massive push back for the Taliban. Many border posts&nbsp;like Islam Qala with Iran, Spin Boldak with Pakistan have fallen into the hands of the Taliban. The group claims to control 85 per cent&nbsp;of the country's territory, but on the ground, it is estimated that it has control over 45 to 50 per cent.

The next two-three&nbsp;months will be crucial for the country amid&nbsp;contestation. As of July, out of 426 districts in&nbsp;the country, 212 districts are under the Taliban's control and&nbsp;111 districts are under government control with the rest witnessing violence.

Even as the situation remains precarious in Afghanistan with the Taliban making territorial gains, India has backed constitutional continuity in Kabul in case of any power-sharing pact.

Even as the situation remains precarious in Afghanistan with the Taliban making territorial gains, India has backed constitutional continuity in Kabul in case of any power-sharing pact. Power-sharing is one of the key points of discussion that are going on to resolve the deteriorating situation in Afghanistan. "What we have been saying is that there is a system in place for last more than 20 years, there is a constitution in place. If we replace the existing system and place a new system, the Afghan society may be impacted", officials said. Representatives of the Afghan government and Taliban have been holding talks in Doha, also known as intra-Afghan talks. The intra-Afghan talks in Doha have seen little progress as it looks like the Taliban is using it as a delaying tactic and trying to buy time. The Afghan government side has been calling for an early ceasefire while the Taliban is keen on the release of around 7000 prisoners. India's backing of constitutional continuity in Kabul comes even as it has been a strong supporter of the Afghan government which it has made clear multiple times. The current Afghan constitution was adopted in January 2004 and provides for an elected president and a National Assembly. Meanwhile, the security situation in the country continues to deteriorate as the Taliban aims to capture more territory, especially in rural areas. An uptick was seen as US forces began withdrawing from the country. According to US Central Command, it has completed more than 95 per cent of the entire withdrawal process. So far increased violence is being seen in Kandahar province and in a new development, the group has focused on north Afghanistan to reduce any resistance. The Nothern Alliance led by legendary Ahmad Shah Massoud in 1990s led to a massive push back for the Taliban. Many border posts like Islam Qala with Iran, Spin Boldak with Pakistan have fallen into the hands of the Taliban. The group claims to control 85 per cent of the country's territory, but on the ground, it is estimated that it has control over 45 to 50 per cent. The next two-three months will be crucial for the country amid contestation. As of July, out of 426 districts in the country, 212 districts are under the Taliban's control and 111 districts are under government control with the rest witnessing violence.

Amid power-sharing talks, India backs constitutional continuity in Kabul

The Afghanistan government has informed the Indian side that Pakistan-based terror group Lashkar-e-Taiba is shifting base inside the country. The development comes even as the Taliban makes territorial gains in the country and the fear is that ungoverned places may be used by international terror groups.

India has been in several private meetings with various regional capitals and has been raising this issue, especially the use of these places by Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed. "The trend we have seen for last one year is that Pakistan has been trying to shift&nbsp;all these international terror groups out north and south Waziristan into Afghanistan,"&nbsp;officials said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/un-warns-of-unprecedented-afghan-civilian-deaths-due-to-taliban-offensives-400723" hreflang="en">UN warns of 'unprecedented' Afghan civilian deaths due to Taliban offensives</a> 
&nbsp; 
Earlier this month, publically slamming Pakistan, Afghan President Ghani pointed out that "more than 10,000 jihadi fighters entered the country from Pakistan in the last month". He made the comments in the presence of Pakistan PM Imran Khan at the Uzbekistan connectivity summit to show&nbsp;a sense of frustration in dealing with Islamabad.

It has now emerged that the number of fighters killed in Afghanistan in the past few weeks had Pakistani ID cards and many of the injured Taliban members are being treated in Pakistani hospitals. Calls have been also made from madrasas in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan to join "Jihad" in Afghanistan.

Iran, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan and&nbsp;China have all been concerned about ungoverned places in Afghanistan that may be used by international terror groups. Uzbekistan is worried that territory might be used by militant Islamist group Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan and&nbsp;China is worried about&nbsp;East Turkestan Islamic Movement (ETIM) gaining a foothold in these ungoverned places.

The Afghanistan government has informed the Indian side that Pakistan-based terror group Lashkar-e-Taiba is shifting base inside the country. The development comes even as the Taliban makes territorial gains in the country and the fear is that ungoverned places may be used by international terror groups.

The Afghanistan government has informed the Indian side that Pakistan-based terror group Lashkar-e-Taiba is shifting base inside the country. The development comes even as the Taliban makes territorial gains in the country and the fear is that ungoverned places may be used by international terror groups. India has been in several private meetings with various regional capitals and has been raising this issue, especially the use of these places by Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed. "The trend we have seen for last one year is that Pakistan has been trying to shift all these international terror groups out north and south Waziristan into Afghanistan," officials said. Also read | UN warns of 'unprecedented' Afghan civilian deaths due to Taliban offensives Earlier this month, publically slamming Pakistan, Afghan President Ghani pointed out that "more than 10,000 jihadi fighters entered the country from Pakistan in the last month". He made the comments in the presence of Pakistan PM Imran Khan at the Uzbekistan connectivity summit to show a sense of frustration in dealing with Islamabad. It has now emerged that the number of fighters killed in Afghanistan in the past few weeks had Pakistani ID cards and many of the injured Taliban members are being treated in Pakistani hospitals. Calls have been also made from madrasas in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan to join "Jihad" in Afghanistan. Iran, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan and China have all been concerned about ungoverned places in Afghanistan that may be used by international terror groups. Uzbekistan is worried that territory might be used by militant Islamist group Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan and China is worried about East Turkestan Islamic Movement (ETIM) gaining a foothold in these ungoverned places.

Pak's Lashkar-e-Taiba shifting base into the country, Afghan tells India

Defence minister Rajnath Singh will be leaving for Tajikistan's capital Dushanbe on Tuesday to participate in Shanghai Cooperation Organisation's Defence Ministers meet.

Wednesday will be the main day of engagement&nbsp;which will include a joint call on by SCO defence ministers with&nbsp;Tajikistan's&nbsp;President Emomali Rahmon.

Tajikistan&nbsp;is chair of the grouping which has eight&nbsp;member states - Russia, China, India, Pakistan, and four&nbsp;central Asian countries - Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan and&nbsp;Kyrgyzstan.&nbsp;Tajikistan&nbsp;will be holding the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation(SCO) heads of state summit on September 16-17.&nbsp;

There is no confirmation whether Rajnath Singh will meet with his Chinese counterpart on the sidelines of the SCO meet. Rajnath Singh and Chinese defence minister General Wei Fenghe had met on the sidelines of the SCO meet last year in Moscow&nbsp;that came in the backdrop of Chinese aggression at Line of Actual Control(LAC) in eastern Ladakh.

The last two&nbsp;months have seen two&nbsp;important SCO meetings under Tajikistan's leadership including the SCO National Security Advisor's meet and foreign ministers meet. The SCO foreign minister meet earlier this month saw external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar and Chinese FM Wang Yi holding a meeting.

During the meet, the Indian side clearly told the Chinese delegation that "unilateral change of status quo is not acceptable" and called for "resolving the remaining issues along the LAC in eastern Ladakh at the earliest", according to the readout by the ministry of external affairs.

SCO as a grouping occupies 60 per cent of the Eurasian continent, which is over 34 million square kilometres with a population of over 3 billion -- that is almost half of the world's population.

Mongolia, Belarus, Afghanistan&nbsp;and Iran are its observers in the grouping, while, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Turkey, Cambodia, Nepal&nbsp;and Sri Lanka have&nbsp;dialogue partner status.

Defence minister Rajnath Singh will be leaving for Tajikistan's capital Dushanbe on Tuesday to participate in Shanghai Cooperation Organisation's Defence Ministers meet.

Defence minister Rajnath Singh will be leaving for Tajikistan's capital Dushanbe on Tuesday to participate in Shanghai Cooperation Organisation's Defence Ministers meet. Wednesday will be the main day of engagement which will include a joint call on by SCO defence ministers with Tajikistan's President Emomali Rahmon. Tajikistan is chair of the grouping which has eight member states - Russia, China, India, Pakistan, and four central Asian countries - Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan. Tajikistan will be holding the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation(SCO) heads of state summit on September 16-17. There is no confirmation whether Rajnath Singh will meet with his Chinese counterpart on the sidelines of the SCO meet. Rajnath Singh and Chinese defence minister General Wei Fenghe had met on the sidelines of the SCO meet last year in Moscow that came in the backdrop of Chinese aggression at Line of Actual Control(LAC) in eastern Ladakh. The last two months have seen two important SCO meetings under Tajikistan's leadership including the SCO National Security Advisor's meet and foreign ministers meet. The SCO foreign minister meet earlier this month saw external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar and Chinese FM Wang Yi holding a meeting. During the meet, the Indian side clearly told the Chinese delegation that "unilateral change of status quo is not acceptable" and called for "resolving the remaining issues along the LAC in eastern Ladakh at the earliest", according to the readout by the ministry of external affairs. SCO as a grouping occupies 60 per cent of the Eurasian continent, which is over 34 million square kilometres with a population of over 3 billion -- that is almost half of the world's population. Mongolia, Belarus, Afghanistan and Iran are its observers in the grouping, while, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Turkey, Cambodia, Nepal and Sri Lanka have dialogue partner status.

Rajnath Singh to visit Tajikistan for SCO defence ministers meet

Afghan Army chief General Wali Mohammad Ahmadzai's India visit has been postponed as Taliban assault has gained strength in the country. General Wali was to begin his India visit from Tuesday (July 27).

Sources said, the visit was postponed due to "intensity of war and Taliban’s increased assault and offensive"

During India visit he was to hold talks with Indian Army chief General Manoj Mukund Naravane, &amp; meet Chief of Defence Staff Bipin Rawat.

India and Afghanistan have defence engagements, which include New Delhi giving Mi-24 helicopters to Kabul to boost the capability of the Afghan Air Force (AAF).&nbsp;

His visit is part of India's engagement with Afghan leadership. India's external affairs minister in last 15 days has met Afghan President Ashraf Ghani, foreign minister Mohammad Hanif Atmar, Chief of the High Council for National Reconciliation Dr Abdullah Abdullah.

Afghanistan will be the top focus also during the visit of US Secretary of state Blinken's Delhi visit. Both sides will assess the current situation in the background of US withdrawing its troops. According to US Central Command, it has completed more than 95 per cent of the withdrawal process. Of the 426 districts of Afghanistan, 212 have fallen under Taliban control, 111 are under government control while rest are contested. 
&nbsp;

Afghan Army chief General Wali Mohammad Ahmadzai's India visit has been postponed as Taliban assault has gained strength in the country. General Wali was to begin his India visit from Tuesday (July 27).

Afghan Army chief General Wali Mohammad Ahmadzai's India visit has been postponed as Taliban assault has gained strength in the country. General Wali was to begin his India visit from Tuesday (July 27). Sources said, the visit was postponed due to "intensity of war and Taliban’s increased assault and offensive" During India visit he was to hold talks with Indian Army chief General Manoj Mukund Naravane, & meet Chief of Defence Staff Bipin Rawat. India and Afghanistan have defence engagements, which include New Delhi giving Mi-24 helicopters to Kabul to boost the capability of the Afghan Air Force (AAF). His visit is part of India's engagement with Afghan leadership. India's external affairs minister in last 15 days has met Afghan President Ashraf Ghani, foreign minister Mohammad Hanif Atmar, Chief of the High Council for National Reconciliation Dr Abdullah Abdullah. Afghanistan will be the top focus also during the visit of US Secretary of state Blinken's Delhi visit. Both sides will assess the current situation in the background of US withdrawing its troops. According to US Central Command, it has completed more than 95 per cent of the withdrawal process. Of the 426 districts of Afghanistan, 212 have fallen under Taliban control, 111 are under government control while rest are contested.

Afghan Army chief postpones India visit as Taliban assault intensifies

It will be Blinken’s first visit to India after assuming charge as the US Secretary of State and the second by a high-ranking official of the Biden administration since it came to power in January.

US Secretary of State to visit India on July 27-28

Today marks the completion of 22 years of the Kargil War, which is unanimously celebrated as the Kargil Diwas. Kargil Diwas or 'Kargil Vijay Diwas' is celebrated in honour of the Kargil War's Heroes.

22 years of Kargil Vijay Diwas: History and significance

The Jammu and Kashmir government has established&nbsp;a special initiative for the first time for the youth of the union territory. The initiative called ''Mission Youth'' will benefit more than 50,000 youngsters&nbsp;in different streams.&nbsp;

The motive behind this is to engage the youngsters of the union territory&nbsp;from developing their skills to training them for starting their own ventures. This initiative will also work in sports activities where more than 20,000 youth will&nbsp;be engaged&nbsp;and trained in various sports to become professionals.&nbsp;

''Under mission youth we are working under five-six major parameters, one is skill development. We have rolled out 98 courses for the youth. They are linked with employment. Second&nbsp;is sports, we want youth to take sports as a profession. We are engaging 20,000 youth in sports and different activities. We are holding counselling&nbsp;centres for youth. Scholarships for women have been rolled out — super 75 scholarship&nbsp;under the guidance of LG Manoj Sinha where we provide INR 100,000 to each girl student to pursue&nbsp;further studies. We are also going to coach students for different competitive exams,'' said Shahid Chaudhary, Director, Mission Youth.

In the Mission Youth, special schemes and scholarships have been rolled out specially for women. Female students wanting to pursue post-graduate courses will be helped with around INR 100,000 worth of scholarships and&nbsp;many skill development courses have also been introduced for women.&nbsp;

''The performance of women&nbsp;has been low and when we launched these schemes the first few ones were only for women. We want at least&nbsp;50 per cent of women participation. We are engaging 20,000 in sports only, self-employment for 50,000 youth in collaboration with JK bank,'' Chaudhary explained.

Young people of the valley have appreciated this move by the government. They say it will help many unemployed youngsters to find a path for deciding their careers and also take them away from social evils such as drug addiction.&nbsp;

"First of all, I would like to appreciate this move by the government of Jammu and Kashmir. It was very much required. Mission youth has funding of around 600 crores, and I recently saw 75 students will get scholarships for the courses, youth engagement schemes are there in it. We have nothing to do otherwise and this initiative will give a boost to the youth in sectors like entrepreneurship etc. They should take more such initiatives for the young, otherwise, we have seen young people going towards drugs and other social evils," said Mir Khubaib, a youngster in the valley.&nbsp;

Some youngsters even say that it's the first time the government has thought about young people. However, they appreciated the efforts made by the LG Manoj Sinha.&nbsp;

"It's the first time in seven decades that something has happened so it's really fabulous that they are delivering on ground. If we see in departments it used to be extremely difficult to get a loan but with these schemes it would be helpful. Youth can get engaged in recreational initiatives. Mission Youth is a great initiative and the officer leading is also good. In Srinagar downtown area, 99 per cent are not government employees and they used to face a lot of issues in getting loans. Youth were demanding something should be done and this is something great LG Manoj Sinha has done for the people of Kashmir. The main reason behind drug addiction is unemployment and with these initiatives, we can involve these youth in something constructive,"&nbsp;said Aqib Renzu, a youth activist.&nbsp;

Youngsters from downtown, however, say that they have been neglected always but hope this scheme will benefit them too.&nbsp;

''This is a great initiative, mission youth for the young. I am from the downtown area of Srinagar and we have been neglected for a very long time and now for the first time we are seeing some hope. I appreciate this. Inshallah it will be a great platform,'' said Tabish Abbas Pathan, a local youngster.&nbsp;

The scheme, if implemented, properly across the union territory can really bring a major change across the Valley.&nbsp;

The Jammu and Kashmir government has established a special initiative for the first time for the youth of the union territory. The initiative called ''Mission Youth'' will benefit more than 50,000 youngsters in different streams.

The Jammu and Kashmir government has established a special initiative for the first time for the youth of the union territory. The initiative called ''Mission Youth'' will benefit more than 50,000 youngsters in different streams. The motive behind this is to engage the youngsters of the union territory from developing their skills to training them for starting their own ventures. This initiative will also work in sports activities where more than 20,000 youth will be engaged and trained in various sports to become professionals. ''Under mission youth we are working under five-six major parameters, one is skill development. We have rolled out 98 courses for the youth. They are linked with employment. Second is sports, we want youth to take sports as a profession. We are engaging 20,000 youth in sports and different activities. We are holding counselling centres for youth. Scholarships for women have been rolled out — super 75 scholarship under the guidance of LG Manoj Sinha where we provide INR 100,000 to each girl student to pursue further studies. We are also going to coach students for different competitive exams,'' said Shahid Chaudhary, Director, Mission Youth. In the Mission Youth, special schemes and scholarships have been rolled out specially for women. Female students wanting to pursue post-graduate courses will be helped with around INR 100,000 worth of scholarships and many skill development courses have also been introduced for women. ''The performance of women has been low and when we launched these schemes the first few ones were only for women. We want at least 50 per cent of women participation. We are engaging 20,000 in sports only, self-employment for 50,000 youth in collaboration with JK bank,'' Chaudhary explained. Young people of the valley have appreciated this move by the government. They say it will help many unemployed youngsters to find a path for deciding their careers and also take them away from social evils such as drug addiction. "First of all, I would like to appreciate this move by the government of Jammu and Kashmir. It was very much required. Mission youth has funding of around 600 crores, and I recently saw 75 students will get scholarships for the courses, youth engagement schemes are there in it. We have nothing to do otherwise and this initiative will give a boost to the youth in sectors like entrepreneurship etc. They should take more such initiatives for the young, otherwise, we have seen young people going towards drugs and other social evils," said Mir Khubaib, a youngster in the valley. Some youngsters even say that it's the first time the government has thought about young people. However, they appreciated the efforts made by the LG Manoj Sinha. "It's the first time in seven decades that something has happened so it's really fabulous that they are delivering on ground. If we see in departments it used to be extremely difficult to get a loan but with these schemes it would be helpful. Youth can get engaged in recreational initiatives. Mission Youth is a great initiative and the officer leading is also good. In Srinagar downtown area, 99 per cent are not government employees and they used to face a lot of issues in getting loans. Youth were demanding something should be done and this is something great LG Manoj Sinha has done for the people of Kashmir. The main reason behind drug addiction is unemployment and with these initiatives, we can involve these youth in something constructive," said Aqib Renzu, a youth activist. Youngsters from downtown, however, say that they have been neglected always but hope this scheme will benefit them too. ''This is a great initiative, mission youth for the young. I am from the downtown area of Srinagar and we have been neglected for a very long time and now for the first time we are seeing some hope. I appreciate this. Inshallah it will be a great platform,'' said Tabish Abbas Pathan, a local youngster. The scheme, if implemented, properly across the union territory can really bring a major change across the Valley.

Mission Youth: 50,000 youth to be engaged in JK for employment opportunities

Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) BS Yediyurappa resigned from the post of Chief Minister of Karnataka on Monday. he had completed two years in his current term.

The BJP appeared to give out conciliatory signals as party general secretary CT Ravi said that Yediyurappa will continue to guide Karnataka and BJP.

"Today Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa`s second year in the fourth term has completed. He has done good work. He will continue to guide Karnataka and BJP. Yediyurappa ji is our senior leader. There are various reports in the news. What is the truth what is a lie, I really do not know. What is going to happen, only time shall decide. I cannot speak much on this issue," CT Ravi was quoted as saying by news agency ANI.

ANI quoted sources to say that replacing four-time chief minister BS Yediyurappa, a Lingayat strongman, from somebody from another community would not be favourable for BJP.

Meanwhile, BJP National President Jagat Prakash Nadda on Sunday also ruled out any crisis in the party`s state unit and said Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa has done a good job."It is your thinking, we do not think this way," said Nadda on being asked whether there is a political crisis in Karnataka.

Addressing a press conference held in Goa, the BJP chief, who is on a two-day visit to Goa ahead of Assembly elections next year, said Yediyurappa is running Karnataka well.

"He has done good work. He is running Karnataka well. Yediyurappa is handling things on his own," said Nadda on being asked about Yediyurappa`s leadership.

For the past several weeks, speculations are doing rounds about Yediyurappa`s exit and the change of guard in the state.

On Thursday, Yediyurappa had expressed to abide by the party`s high command decision and asserted that he will follow the directions of the BJP chief. Yediyurappa strongly denied having tendered his resignation amid speculations about leadership change in Karnataka earlier.

Last month, some BJP MLAs had demanded that Yediyurappa must step down as chief minister.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) BS Yediyurappa resigned from the post of Chief Minister of Karnataka on Monday. he had completed two years in his current term. The BJP appeared to give out conciliatory signals as party general secretary CT Ravi said that Yediyurappa will continue to guide Karnataka and BJP.

Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) BS Yediyurappa resigned from the post of Chief Minister of Karnataka on Monday. he had completed two years in his current term. The BJP appeared to give out conciliatory signals as party general secretary CT Ravi said that Yediyurappa will continue to guide Karnataka and BJP. "Today Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa`s second year in the fourth term has completed. He has done good work. He will continue to guide Karnataka and BJP. Yediyurappa ji is our senior leader. There are various reports in the news. What is the truth what is a lie, I really do not know. What is going to happen, only time shall decide. I cannot speak much on this issue," CT Ravi was quoted as saying by news agency ANI. ANI quoted sources to say that replacing four-time chief minister BS Yediyurappa, a Lingayat strongman, from somebody from another community would not be favourable for BJP. Meanwhile, BJP National President Jagat Prakash Nadda on Sunday also ruled out any crisis in the party`s state unit and said Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa has done a good job."It is your thinking, we do not think this way," said Nadda on being asked whether there is a political crisis in Karnataka. Addressing a press conference held in Goa, the BJP chief, who is on a two-day visit to Goa ahead of Assembly elections next year, said Yediyurappa is running Karnataka well. "He has done good work. He is running Karnataka well. Yediyurappa is handling things on his own," said Nadda on being asked about Yediyurappa`s leadership. For the past several weeks, speculations are doing rounds about Yediyurappa`s exit and the change of guard in the state. On Thursday, Yediyurappa had expressed to abide by the party`s high command decision and asserted that he will follow the directions of the BJP chief. Yediyurappa strongly denied having tendered his resignation amid speculations about leadership change in Karnataka earlier. Last month, some BJP MLAs had demanded that Yediyurappa must step down as chief minister. (With inputs from agencies)

BJP strongman Yediyurappa resigns as CM of southern Indian state Karnataka

Heavy rainfall activity is expected over north and east India during the next three-four days, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said on Monday.

The low pressure area over northwest Madhya Pradesh has become less marked.&nbsp;However, the associated cyclonic circulation over northwest Madhya Pradesh and neighbourhood persists.

Another cyclonic circulation lies over North Bay of Bengal. Under its influence, a low pressure area is likely to form over North Bay of Bengal and neighbourhood around July 28.

Due to the influence of these two systems, widespread rainfall activity with isolated heavy to very heavy falls is very likely over Jammu &amp; Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh and Uttar Pradesh till July 29 and its intensity will reduce thereafter.

Isolated extremely heavy rainfall is also likely over Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand on July 27 and 28 and over northwest Uttar Pradesh on July 27.

Fairly widespread rainfall with isolated heavy to very heavy falls are likely to continue over east Rajasthan and west Madhya Pradesh till July 26 and reduce thereafter.

There will be an enhanced rainfall activity with fairly widespread to widespread rainfall and isolated heavy to very heavy falls likely over east and adjoining central India including Odisha, Gangetic West Bengal and Jharkhand from July 27.

Fairly widespread to widespread rainfall with isolated heavy falls are very likely over Konkan, Goa, the ghat areas of central Maharashtra during the next three days and increase to isolated heavy to very heavy falls over the region from July 29.

Scores of lives have been lost due to landslides and floods in Maharashtra in the last two weeks.&nbsp;

Heavy rainfall activity is expected over north and east India during the next three-four days, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said on Monday. The low pressure area over northwest Madhya Pradesh has become less marked.

Heavy rainfall activity is expected over north and east India during the next three-four days, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said on Monday. The low pressure area over northwest Madhya Pradesh has become less marked. However, the associated cyclonic circulation over northwest Madhya Pradesh and neighbourhood persists. Another cyclonic circulation lies over North Bay of Bengal. Under its influence, a low pressure area is likely to form over North Bay of Bengal and neighbourhood around July 28. Due to the influence of these two systems, widespread rainfall activity with isolated heavy to very heavy falls is very likely over Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh and Uttar Pradesh till July 29 and its intensity will reduce thereafter. Isolated extremely heavy rainfall is also likely over Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand on July 27 and 28 and over northwest Uttar Pradesh on July 27. Fairly widespread rainfall with isolated heavy to very heavy falls are likely to continue over east Rajasthan and west Madhya Pradesh till July 26 and reduce thereafter. There will be an enhanced rainfall activity with fairly widespread to widespread rainfall and isolated heavy to very heavy falls likely over east and adjoining central India including Odisha, Gangetic West Bengal and Jharkhand from July 27. Fairly widespread to widespread rainfall with isolated heavy falls are very likely over Konkan, Goa, the ghat areas of central Maharashtra during the next three days and increase to isolated heavy to very heavy falls over the region from July 29. Scores of lives have been lost due to landslides and floods in Maharashtra in the last two weeks.

Heavy rainfall likely over north, east India for three to four days: IMD

The Army paid rich tributes to the soldiers who lost their lives in the 1999 Kargil War against Pakistan at the Drass war memorial in Ladakh on Monday. In 1999, the Indian armed forces defeated attempts by Pakistan to capture strategic heights in Kargil.

It was named 'Operation Vijay' (victory). The solemn ceremony to celebrate the 22nd anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas was held at the Kargil War Memorial, Drass, Srinagar-based PRO Defence Col Emron Musavi said.

Lt Governor of Ladakh RK Mathur was the chief guest on the occasion. He laid a wreath at the memorial and paid tributes to the slain soldiers as part of a ceremony symbolising 'shraddhanjali' (homage) from the entire nation.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaSalutesKargilHeroes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaSalutesKargilHeroes</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/22yearsofKargil?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#22yearsofKargil</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WreathLaying?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WreathLaying</a> ceremony at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Dhruva?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Dhruva</a> War Memorial. Homage paid by all ranks &amp; veterans to the bravehearts.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KargilHeroes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KargilHeroes</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/adgpi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@adgpi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/firefurycorps?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@firefurycorps</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ChinarcorpsIA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ChinarcorpsIA</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Whiteknight_IA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Whiteknight_IA</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/proudhampur?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@proudhampur</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/PRODefSrinagar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PRODefSrinagar</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/prodefencejammu?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@prodefencejammu</a> <a href="https://t.co/8hXh9LM5NA">pic.twitter.com/8hXh9LM5NA</a>
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President Ram Nath Kovind was scheduled to visit the Drass memorial to pay homage to the soldiers who laid down their lives in the war but the plan had to be changed due to bad weather. Instead, he visited the Baramulla war memorial in north Kashmir and laid a wreath there.

In 2019 also, Kovind's flight could not take off from here due to bad weather and he laid a wreath at the war memorial in Badamibagh Cantonment, which also houses the headquarters of the Army's 15 Corps. PRO Defence Musavi said this year, the Kargil Vijay Diwas coincides with the 'Swarnim Vijay Varsh Victory Flame' reaching the Kargil War Memorial.

The journey of the 'Swarnim Vijay Varsh Victory Flame' across the country commemorates 50 years of India's victory over Pakistan in the 1971 war.

The proceedings at the Kargil War Memorial commenced with the reception of the 'Swarnim Vijay Varsh Victory Flame' by Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat in the presence of GOC-in-C Northern Command Lt Gen Y K Joshi, GOC 14 Corps Lt Gen PGK Menon, GOC 15 Corps Lt Gen DP Pandey and GOC 16 Corps Lt Gen M V Suchindra Kumar and other officers, gallantry awardees, 'Veer Naris', next of kin of the slain soldiers and civil dignitaries, Musavi said.

It was followed by a wreath-laying ceremony by civil and military dignitaries, he said. The gallantry awardees of the Kargil War, next of kin of the Bravehearts, and 'Veer Naris' also paid tributes to the fallen heroes, he said.

The Army paid rich tributes to the soldiers who lost their lives in the 1999 Kargil War against Pakistan at the Drass war memorial in Ladakh on Monday. In 1999, the Indian armed forces defeated attempts by Pakistan to capture strategic heights in Kargil.

The Army paid rich tributes to the soldiers who lost their lives in the 1999 Kargil War against Pakistan at the Drass war memorial in Ladakh on Monday. In 1999, the Indian armed forces defeated attempts by Pakistan to capture strategic heights in Kargil. It was named 'Operation Vijay' (victory). The solemn ceremony to celebrate the 22nd anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas was held at the Kargil War Memorial, Drass, Srinagar-based PRO Defence Col Emron Musavi said. Lt Governor of Ladakh RK Mathur was the chief guest on the occasion. He laid a wreath at the memorial and paid tributes to the slain soldiers as part of a ceremony symbolising 'shraddhanjali' (homage) from the entire nation. #IndiaSalutesKargilHeroes #22yearsofKargil#WreathLaying ceremony at #Dhruva War Memorial. Homage paid by all ranks & veterans to the bravehearts.#KargilHeroes @adgpi @firefurycorps @ChinarcorpsIA @Whiteknight_IA @proudhampur @PRODefSrinagar @prodefencejammu pic.twitter.com/8hXh9LM5NA — NorthernComd.IA (@NorthernComd_IA) July 26, 2021 × President Ram Nath Kovind was scheduled to visit the Drass memorial to pay homage to the soldiers who laid down their lives in the war but the plan had to be changed due to bad weather. Instead, he visited the Baramulla war memorial in north Kashmir and laid a wreath there. In 2019 also, Kovind's flight could not take off from here due to bad weather and he laid a wreath at the war memorial in Badamibagh Cantonment, which also houses the headquarters of the Army's 15 Corps. PRO Defence Musavi said this year, the Kargil Vijay Diwas coincides with the 'Swarnim Vijay Varsh Victory Flame' reaching the Kargil War Memorial. The journey of the 'Swarnim Vijay Varsh Victory Flame' across the country commemorates 50 years of India's victory over Pakistan in the 1971 war. The proceedings at the Kargil War Memorial commenced with the reception of the 'Swarnim Vijay Varsh Victory Flame' by Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat in the presence of GOC-in-C Northern Command Lt Gen Y K Joshi, GOC 14 Corps Lt Gen PGK Menon, GOC 15 Corps Lt Gen DP Pandey and GOC 16 Corps Lt Gen M V Suchindra Kumar and other officers, gallantry awardees, 'Veer Naris', next of kin of the slain soldiers and civil dignitaries, Musavi said. It was followed by a wreath-laying ceremony by civil and military dignitaries, he said. The gallantry awardees of the Kargil War, next of kin of the Bravehearts, and 'Veer Naris' also paid tributes to the fallen heroes, he said.

Kargil Vijay Diwas: Indian Army pays tributes to its soldiers at Drass war memorial

National carrier Etihad Airways on Monday informed that flights from India to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) will remain suspended till August 2.

The date could be extended, depending on directions by the UAE authorities, Khaleej Times reported citing Etihad Airways Guest Relations.

"We've just received confirmation that flights from India are suspended till the 2nd August, and we are not entirely sure if this will be extended as it depends on the authorities," Etihad Airways Guest Relations said in a tweet. 
&nbsp;

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We've just received confirmation that flights from India are suspended till the 2nd August, and we are not entirely sure if this will be extended as it depends on the authorities. You may not see availability on the website because of the schedule uncertainty. *Sky
— Etihad Help (@EtihadHelp) <a href="https://twitter.com/EtihadHelp/status/1419546271162019846?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Last month, the Canadian government also announced that it is extending the ban on incoming passenger flights from India for another month due to the Delta variant of COVID-19.

National carrier Etihad Airways on Monday informed that flights from India to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) will remain suspended till August 2. The date could be extended, depending on directions by the UAE authorities, Khaleej Times reported citing Etihad Airways Guest Relations.

National carrier Etihad Airways on Monday informed that flights from India to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) will remain suspended till August 2. The date could be extended, depending on directions by the UAE authorities, Khaleej Times reported citing Etihad Airways Guest Relations. "We've just received confirmation that flights from India are suspended till the 2nd August, and we are not entirely sure if this will be extended as it depends on the authorities," Etihad Airways Guest Relations said in a tweet. We've just received confirmation that flights from India are suspended till the 2nd August, and we are not entirely sure if this will be extended as it depends on the authorities. You may not see availability on the website because of the schedule uncertainty. *Sky — Etihad Help (@EtihadHelp) July 26, 2021 × Last month, the Canadian government also announced that it is extending the ban on incoming passenger flights from India for another month due to the Delta variant of COVID-19.

COVID-19: UAE extends ban on passenger flights from India till August 2

India is battling deadly floods and landslides after heavy monsoon rains. 9 people have been killed in the disaster. The states of Himachal, Maharashtra are the ones worst affected by the disaster. The PM's house has announced compensation to those affected by the disaster.

At least 9 killed in landslides, floods in parts of northern and western India

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday paid tributes to Georgia's Saint Queen Ketevan during his monthly Mann ki Baat programme, pointing out how "extremely emotional" the people of the country are for her.

External affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar had visited the country earlier this month and handed over the relics of St Ketevan who was martyred in Iran in 1624.

Recalling the "very interesting and very emotional event" of handing over the relics, Modi said the development imparts "new strength to India-Georgia friendship" and the "words that were said in praise of India in this ceremony are indeed very memorable."

The ceremony that took place at the Sameba Holy Trinity Cathedral saw the participation of Georgia's top political and religious leaders including the President, PM, and His Holiness and Beatitude Ilia II, the Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia.

St Queen Ketevan's relics were found in St. Augustine Convent in Old Goa, India in 2005. DNA analysis by the CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology, Hyderabad at the instance of the Archaeological Survey of India confirmed its authenticity. It is believed her relics were brought to Goa in 1627.

Modi said the "ceremony has not only strengthened the relations between the two nations but as well as between Goa and Georgia."

He explained that "this is an extremely emotional topic for the people of Georgia. That is why keeping in mind their historical, religious, and spiritual sentiments, the Government of India decided to gift a part of these relics to the people of Georgia."

The relics have reached Georgia back after more than 390 years. In the past, in September 2017, relics were sent to Georgia for almost a year and were returned to India in September 2018.

Lauding Goa, the PM said, "I would like to thank the people of Goa for preserving this unique side of the shared history of India and Georgia. Goa has been the land of many a great spiritual heritage. Saint Augustine Church is a UNESCO's World Heritage Site – a part of the Churches and Convents of Goa."

EAM's visit was the first visit by an Indian external affairs minister to the country since it became independent in 1991. Georgian Foreign Minister Irakli Menagarishvili and External Affairs Minister Jaswant Singh had met in New Delhi on 11 May 2000.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday paid tributes to Georgia's Saint Queen Ketevan during his monthly Mann ki Baat programme, pointing out how "extremely emotional" the people of the country are for her.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday paid tributes to Georgia's Saint Queen Ketevan during his monthly Mann ki Baat programme, pointing out how "extremely emotional" the people of the country are for her. External affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar had visited the country earlier this month and handed over the relics of St Ketevan who was martyred in Iran in 1624. Recalling the "very interesting and very emotional event" of handing over the relics, Modi said the development imparts "new strength to India-Georgia friendship" and the "words that were said in praise of India in this ceremony are indeed very memorable." The ceremony that took place at the Sameba Holy Trinity Cathedral saw the participation of Georgia's top political and religious leaders including the President, PM, and His Holiness and Beatitude Ilia II, the Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia. St Queen Ketevan's relics were found in St. Augustine Convent in Old Goa, India in 2005. DNA analysis by the CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology, Hyderabad at the instance of the Archaeological Survey of India confirmed its authenticity. It is believed her relics were brought to Goa in 1627. Modi said the "ceremony has not only strengthened the relations between the two nations but as well as between Goa and Georgia." He explained that "this is an extremely emotional topic for the people of Georgia. That is why keeping in mind their historical, religious, and spiritual sentiments, the Government of India decided to gift a part of these relics to the people of Georgia." The relics have reached Georgia back after more than 390 years. In the past, in September 2017, relics were sent to Georgia for almost a year and were returned to India in September 2018. Lauding Goa, the PM said, "I would like to thank the people of Goa for preserving this unique side of the shared history of India and Georgia. Goa has been the land of many a great spiritual heritage. Saint Augustine Church is a UNESCO's World Heritage Site – a part of the Churches and Convents of Goa." EAM's visit was the first visit by an Indian external affairs minister to the country since it became independent in 1991. Georgian Foreign Minister Irakli Menagarishvili and External Affairs Minister Jaswant Singh had met in New Delhi on 11 May 2000.

PM Modi pays tributes to Georgia's Saint Queen Ketevan; lauds Goa for preserving her relics

After a long wait, a veterinary doctor turned inventor, John Abraham has received a patent for inventing biodiesel from slaughtered chicken waste.

"After seven-and-a-half years, the Indian Patent Office finally granted us the patent on July 7, 2021, for inventing 'biodiesel produced from rendered chicken oil,"&nbsp;Abraham told news agency PTI.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-rudreswara-temple-added-to-world-heritage-list-by-unesco-400597" hreflang="en">India: Rudreswara Temple added to 'world heritage list' by UNESCO</a>

The inventor has figured out how to make biodiesel from slaughtered chicken that provides a mileage of over 38 kilometre a litre at nearly 40 per cent of the current price of diesel. This invention also helps decrease pollution levels by half.

Abraham came up with this invention during the course of his doctoral research at the Namakkal Veterinary College under the Tamil Nadu Veterinary &amp; Animal Sciences University. He had applied for this patent seven years ago.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/singapore-pm-inaugurating-historic-gurudwara-lauded-by-indian-pm-modi-400588" hreflang="en">Singapore PM inaugurating historic Gurudwara lauded by Indian PM Modi</a>

The delay in patent, as per Abraham, happened because he needed permission from the National Biodiversity Authority as the important raw material was biological material which is locally sourced.

During his research days, he was being mentored by late Prof Ramesh Saravanakumar who passed away waiting for the patent to arrive.

After his research was completed and he was awaiting the results of the patent, Abraham started working at Pookode Veterinary College and later set up a pilot plant at the college campus with funding from the Indian Council for Agricultural Research worth INR 1,800,000.

After a long wait, a veterinary doctor turned inventor, John Abraham has received a patent for inventing biodiesel from slaughtered chicken waste. "After seven-and-a-half years, the Indian Patent Office finally granted us the patent on July 7, 2021, for inventing 'biodiesel produced from rendered chicken oil," Abraham told news agency PTI.

After a long wait, a veterinary doctor turned inventor, John Abraham has received a patent for inventing biodiesel from slaughtered chicken waste. "After seven-and-a-half years, the Indian Patent Office finally granted us the patent on July 7, 2021, for inventing 'biodiesel produced from rendered chicken oil," Abraham told news agency PTI. Also read | India: Rudreswara Temple added to 'world heritage list' by UNESCO The inventor has figured out how to make biodiesel from slaughtered chicken that provides a mileage of over 38 kilometre a litre at nearly 40 per cent of the current price of diesel. This invention also helps decrease pollution levels by half. Abraham came up with this invention during the course of his doctoral research at the Namakkal Veterinary College under the Tamil Nadu Veterinary & Animal Sciences University. He had applied for this patent seven years ago. Also read | Singapore PM inaugurating historic Gurudwara lauded by Indian PM Modi The delay in patent, as per Abraham, happened because he needed permission from the National Biodiversity Authority as the important raw material was biological material which is locally sourced. During his research days, he was being mentored by late Prof Ramesh Saravanakumar who passed away waiting for the patent to arrive. After his research was completed and he was awaiting the results of the patent, Abraham started working at Pookode Veterinary College and later set up a pilot plant at the college campus with funding from the Indian Council for Agricultural Research worth INR 1,800,000.

India: John Abraham, a veterinarian, invents way to get biodiesel from chicken waste

India will be calling for "need for sustained pressure" on Pakistan over terrorism during US Secretary of State Antony Blinken's visit this week. Pakistan has been on the grey list of terror watchdog Financial Action Task Force (FATF) for last two years. Pakistan has been dragging feet on the issue of action against United Nations-listed terrorist groups.

During the visit, the first by Blinken to New Delhi, regional security situation, that is, "implications of the withdrawal of US forces from Afghanistan" will be another key focus, sources have pointed out. Even as US forces leave the country for 20 years, the Taliban has been increasingly making territorial gains and reports of large-scale violence are emanating from the country.&nbsp;

India has been engaging with the US in Afghanistan. Earlier this month, India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met US Deputy NSA Elizabeth Sherwood-Randall. He met US Special Representative on Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad last week in Uzbekistan on the sidelines of the connectivity summit.

Sources pointed out that during Blinken's visit, both sides will "exchange assessments about the Indo-Pacific region" especially with a focus on the Quad and Quad vaccine initiative. US plans to host the first in-person Quad meet of India, Australia, US and Japan later this year in Washington. Before that a Quad foreign ministers meet will also take place. March saw the first Quad meet but it was a virtual one with a key outcome on the Quad Vaccine initiative. Under the initiative, India will be producing vaccines by early 2022 which will be given to countries in the Indo-Pacific.&nbsp;

During the Blinken-EAM Jaishankar talks, sources said that India "will press for gradual resumption of international travel, while maintaining health protocols, especially easing the mobility of students, professionals, business travelers..", calling for the need for "ensuring open and consistent supply chains for materials and items required for vaccine production".

Both Blinken and Jaishankar have met each other 3 times previously, first on the sidelines of the G7 foreign ministers meet in London, then during EAM's visit to the US, and finally, on the sidelines of the G20 FMs meet in Italy.&nbsp;

On defence, "sides are expected to explore ways and means to deepen their collaboration" which will cover policy exchanges, exercises, and defence transfers and technologies. Later this year, both sides will hold the fourth 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue that will take place in the US.

Meanwhile, on US State dept officials saying Human rights will be raised during the visit, sources said, "Issues such as human rights and democracy are universal and extend beyond a particular national or cultural perspective". Sources explained, "India is proud of its achievements in both domains and is always glad to share experiences", adding, "as a long-standing pluralistic society, India is open to engaging those who now recognize the value of diversity."

Blinken is the second senior official of Biden Administration to visit Delhi this year. United States Secretary of Defense, General (Retd.) Lloyd J. Austin had visited New Delhi earlier this year. From Delhi, Blinken will go to Kuwait. WION was the first channel to break the story about Blinken's visit to India last week.

India will be calling for "need for sustained pressure" on Pakistan over terrorism during US Secretary of State Antony Blinken's visit this week. Pakistan has been on the grey list of terror watchdog Financial Action Task Force (FATF) for last two years.

India will be calling for "need for sustained pressure" on Pakistan over terrorism during US Secretary of State Antony Blinken's visit this week. Pakistan has been on the grey list of terror watchdog Financial Action Task Force (FATF) for last two years. Pakistan has been dragging feet on the issue of action against United Nations-listed terrorist groups. During the visit, the first by Blinken to New Delhi, regional security situation, that is, "implications of the withdrawal of US forces from Afghanistan" will be another key focus, sources have pointed out. Even as US forces leave the country for 20 years, the Taliban has been increasingly making territorial gains and reports of large-scale violence are emanating from the country. India has been engaging with the US in Afghanistan. Earlier this month, India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met US Deputy NSA Elizabeth Sherwood-Randall. He met US Special Representative on Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad last week in Uzbekistan on the sidelines of the connectivity summit. Sources pointed out that during Blinken's visit, both sides will "exchange assessments about the Indo-Pacific region" especially with a focus on the Quad and Quad vaccine initiative. US plans to host the first in-person Quad meet of India, Australia, US and Japan later this year in Washington. Before that a Quad foreign ministers meet will also take place. March saw the first Quad meet but it was a virtual one with a key outcome on the Quad Vaccine initiative. Under the initiative, India will be producing vaccines by early 2022 which will be given to countries in the Indo-Pacific. During the Blinken-EAM Jaishankar talks, sources said that India "will press for gradual resumption of international travel, while maintaining health protocols, especially easing the mobility of students, professionals, business travelers..", calling for the need for "ensuring open and consistent supply chains for materials and items required for vaccine production". Both Blinken and Jaishankar have met each other 3 times previously, first on the sidelines of the G7 foreign ministers meet in London, then during EAM's visit to the US, and finally, on the sidelines of the G20 FMs meet in Italy. On defence, "sides are expected to explore ways and means to deepen their collaboration" which will cover policy exchanges, exercises, and defence transfers and technologies. Later this year, both sides will hold the fourth 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue that will take place in the US. Meanwhile, on US State dept officials saying Human rights will be raised during the visit, sources said, "Issues such as human rights and democracy are universal and extend beyond a particular national or cultural perspective". Sources explained, "India is proud of its achievements in both domains and is always glad to share experiences", adding, "as a long-standing pluralistic society, India is open to engaging those who now recognize the value of diversity." Blinken is the second senior official of Biden Administration to visit Delhi this year. United States Secretary of Defense, General (Retd.) Lloyd J. Austin had visited New Delhi earlier this year. From Delhi, Blinken will go to Kuwait. WION was the first channel to break the story about Blinken's visit to India last week.

Blinken's India visit: India to discuss Pakistan support to terror, Afghanistan, Indo-Pacific

India’s Rudreswara Temple has been added to the list of ‘world heritage site’ by UNESCO on Sunday (July 25, 2021).

Also known as the Ramappa Temple, the 800-year-old religious site was proposed as the sole nomination for the UNESCO World Heritage site tag for 2019.

<img alt="Rudreswara Temple" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="430ce858-0049-4aa7-9532-3ea61ba7c9a9" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Rudreswara%20Temple%20%281%29.jpg" />

"Just inscribed as World Heritage Site: Kakatiya Rudeshwara (Ramappa) Temple, Telangana in India. Bravo!,"&nbsp;UNESCO tweeted.

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🔴 BREAKING! 
 
Just inscribed as <a href="https://twitter.com/UNESCO?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UNESCO</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WorldHeritage?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WorldHeritage</a> site: Kakatiya Rudreshwara (Ramappa) Temple, Telangana, in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a>🇮🇳. Bravo! 👏 
 
ℹ️ <a href="https://t.co/X7SWIos7D9">https://t.co/X7SWIos7D9</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/44WHC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#44WHC</a> <a href="https://t.co/cq3ngcsGy9">pic.twitter.com/cq3ngcsGy9</a>
— UNESCO 🏛️ #Education #Sciences #Culture 🇺🇳😷 (@UNESCO) <a href="https://twitter.com/UNESCO/status/1419253703115169794?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 25, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to Twitter to congratulate the authorities and locals for earning this honour. "Excellent! Congratulations to everyone, specially the people of Telangana. The iconic Ramappa Temple showcases the outstanding craftsmanship of great Kakatiya dynasty. I would urge you all to visit this majestic Temple complex and get a first-hand experience of it’s grandness," his tweet read.

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Excellent! Congratulations to everyone, specially the people of Telangana. 
 
The iconic Ramappa Temple showcases the outstanding craftsmanship of great Kakatiya dynasty. I would urge you all to visit this majestic Temple complex and get a first-hand experience of it’s grandness. <a href="https://t.co/muNhX49l9J">https://t.co/muNhX49l9J</a> <a href="https://t.co/XMrAWJJao2">pic.twitter.com/XMrAWJJao2</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1419267620155518982?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 25, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Constructed in 1213 AD, this temple was built under the Kakatiya Empire by Recharla Rudra, the general of the Kakatiya King Ganapati Deva. The 13th century temple has been named after its architect, Ramappa, who worked on the temple for 40 years.

With the presiding deity of Ramalingeswara Swamy, the temple highlights the creativity and craftsmanship of the Kakatiya dynasty.

It stands on a six feet high platform which is in the shape of a star, and is supported by walls, pillars and ceilings adorned with skilled carvings.

India’s Rudreswara Temple has been added to the list of ‘world heritage site’ by UNESCO on Sunday (July 25, 2021). Also known as the Ramappa Temple, the 800-year-old religious site was proposed as the sole nomination for the UNESCO World Heritage site tag for 2019.

India’s Rudreswara Temple has been added to the list of ‘world heritage site’ by UNESCO on Sunday (July 25, 2021). Also known as the Ramappa Temple, the 800-year-old religious site was proposed as the sole nomination for the UNESCO World Heritage site tag for 2019. "Just inscribed as World Heritage Site: Kakatiya Rudeshwara (Ramappa) Temple, Telangana in India. Bravo!," UNESCO tweeted. 🔴 BREAKING! Just inscribed as @UNESCO #WorldHeritage site: Kakatiya Rudreshwara (Ramappa) Temple, Telangana, in #India🇮🇳. Bravo! 👏 ℹ️ https://t.co/X7SWIos7D9 #44WHC pic.twitter.com/cq3ngcsGy9 — UNESCO 🏛️ #Education #Sciences #Culture 🇺🇳😷 (@UNESCO) July 25, 2021 × Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to Twitter to congratulate the authorities and locals for earning this honour. "Excellent! Congratulations to everyone, specially the people of Telangana. The iconic Ramappa Temple showcases the outstanding craftsmanship of great Kakatiya dynasty. I would urge you all to visit this majestic Temple complex and get a first-hand experience of it’s grandness," his tweet read. Excellent! Congratulations to everyone, specially the people of Telangana. The iconic Ramappa Temple showcases the outstanding craftsmanship of great Kakatiya dynasty. I would urge you all to visit this majestic Temple complex and get a first-hand experience of it’s grandness. https://t.co/muNhX49l9J pic.twitter.com/XMrAWJJao2 — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 25, 2021 × Constructed in 1213 AD, this temple was built under the Kakatiya Empire by Recharla Rudra, the general of the Kakatiya King Ganapati Deva. The 13th century temple has been named after its architect, Ramappa, who worked on the temple for 40 years. With the presiding deity of Ramalingeswara Swamy, the temple highlights the creativity and craftsmanship of the Kakatiya dynasty. It stands on a six feet high platform which is in the shape of a star, and is supported by walls, pillars and ceilings adorned with skilled carvings.

India: Rudreswara Temple added to 'world heritage list' by UNESCO

Singapore's Prime minister Lee Hsien Loong inaugurated a renovated historic Gurudwara. This was also featured in&nbsp;this month's "Mann ki Baat" programme of the Indian PM Narendra Modi, who appreciated the development.

The Silat Road Gurudwara was built in 1924 and is the oldest gurudwara in the country. This Gurudwara is&nbsp;dedicated to Bhai Maharaj Singh, who fought against the British in India and is&nbsp;one of the historic sites of the country.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-worked-closely-with-partners-as-unsc-condemns-turkey-on-varosha-issue-400297" hreflang="en">India worked closely with partners as UNSC condemns Turkey on Varosha issue</a>

"The Prime Minister of Singapore and my friend, Lee Hsien Loong inaugurated the recently renovated Silat Road Gurudwara. He also wore the traditional Sikh turban," Modi said. "The people-to-people strength between two countries gets a boost with such initiatives and efforts. These also show how important it is to live in a harmonious environment and understand each other's culture."

Bhai Maharaj Singh was sent by the British to Singapore in the 1850s as a political prisoner. He was seen as a "saint soldier" and was the first Sikh of Singapore. He died in solitary confinement at the Outram Prison in 1856.

"This Gurudwara was built about a hundred years ago and there is also a memorial dedicated to Bhai Maharaj Singh. Bhai Maharaj Singh ji fought for the independence of India and this moment becomes more inspiring when we are celebrating 75 years of independence," Modi said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-critical-partner-in-the-region-says-us-state-dept-ahead-of-blinken-visit-400259" hreflang="en">India critical partner in the region,&nbsp;says&nbsp;US State dept ahead of&nbsp;Blinken&nbsp;visit</a>

Silat Road Gurudwara was the first Sikh Gurudwara of the country built in traditional styles, like the&nbsp;Gurudwaras found in India. It was also referred to as Police&nbsp;Gurudwara because it was built with help of Sikhs in the police service. The&nbsp;Gurudwara has been a spiritual haven for Sikhs in Singapore and during the Japanese occupation, it took in the widows and children of Sikhs who gave lives in defending the country.&nbsp;

Indian origin people make from 7 to 9 per cent&nbsp;of the multicultural south Asian country which takes pride in its diversity. Being the third largest ethnic group, Indian Singaporeans have contributed a lot the nation-building.&nbsp;

Two Indian origin people are top Singapore ministers — K. Shanmugam is the current home minister and Vivian Balakrishnan, the current foreign minister of the country.&nbsp;General Ravinder Singh was the chief of the Singapore Army from 2011–2014.

Singapore's Prime minister Lee Hsien Loong inaugurated a renovated historic Gurudwara. This was also featured in this month's "Mann ki Baat" programme of the Indian PM Narendra Modi, who appreciated the development.

Singapore's Prime minister Lee Hsien Loong inaugurated a renovated historic Gurudwara. This was also featured in this month's "Mann ki Baat" programme of the Indian PM Narendra Modi, who appreciated the development. The Silat Road Gurudwara was built in 1924 and is the oldest gurudwara in the country. This Gurudwara is dedicated to Bhai Maharaj Singh, who fought against the British in India and is one of the historic sites of the country. Also read | India worked closely with partners as UNSC condemns Turkey on Varosha issue "The Prime Minister of Singapore and my friend, Lee Hsien Loong inaugurated the recently renovated Silat Road Gurudwara. He also wore the traditional Sikh turban," Modi said. "The people-to-people strength between two countries gets a boost with such initiatives and efforts. These also show how important it is to live in a harmonious environment and understand each other's culture." Bhai Maharaj Singh was sent by the British to Singapore in the 1850s as a political prisoner. He was seen as a "saint soldier" and was the first Sikh of Singapore. He died in solitary confinement at the Outram Prison in 1856. "This Gurudwara was built about a hundred years ago and there is also a memorial dedicated to Bhai Maharaj Singh. Bhai Maharaj Singh ji fought for the independence of India and this moment becomes more inspiring when we are celebrating 75 years of independence," Modi said. Also read | India critical partner in the region, says US State dept ahead of Blinken visit Silat Road Gurudwara was the first Sikh Gurudwara of the country built in traditional styles, like the Gurudwaras found in India. It was also referred to as Police Gurudwara because it was built with help of Sikhs in the police service. The Gurudwara has been a spiritual haven for Sikhs in Singapore and during the Japanese occupation, it took in the widows and children of Sikhs who gave lives in defending the country. Indian origin people make from 7 to 9 per cent of the multicultural south Asian country which takes pride in its diversity. Being the third largest ethnic group, Indian Singaporeans have contributed a lot the nation-building. Two Indian origin people are top Singapore ministers — K. Shanmugam is the current home minister and Vivian Balakrishnan, the current foreign minister of the country. General Ravinder Singh was the chief of the Singapore Army from 2011–2014.

Singapore PM inaugurating historic Gurudwara lauded by Indian PM Modi

India added 39,742 new cases of coronavirus infection taking the total tally of COVID-19 cases to 3,13,71,901, while the death toll rose to 4,20,551 with 535 fresh fatalities, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Sunday.

The active cases have declined to 4,08,212 and comprise 1.30 per cent of the total infections and the national COVID-19 recovery rate has been recorded at 97.36 per cent, the data updated at 8 am showed. A decline of 765 cases has been recorded in the active COVID-19 caseload in a span of 24 hours.

As many as 17,18,756 tests were conducted on Saturday taking the total cumulative tests conducted so far for detection of COVID-19 in the country to 45,62,89,567.

The daily positivity rate was recorded at 2.31 per cent. It has been less than three per cent for 34 consecutive days, the ministry said, adding the weekly positivity rate was recorded at 2.24 per cent.

The number of people, who have recuperated from the disease surged to 3,05,43,138, while the case fatality rate stands at 1.34 per cent, the data stated.

Cumulative vaccine doses administered so far has reached 43.31 crore under the nationwide vaccination drive. 
The 535 new fatalities include 224 from Maharashtra and 98 from Kerala.

A total of 4,20551 deaths have been reported so far in the country including 1,31,429 from Maharashtra, 36,352 from Karnataka, 33,889 from Tamil Nadu, 25,041 from Delhi, 22,749 from Uttar Pradesh and 18,064 from West Bengal. The health ministry stressed that more than 70 per cent of the deaths occurred due to comorbidities.&nbsp;

India added 39,742 new cases of coronavirus infection taking the total tally of COVID-19 cases to 3,13,71,901, while the death toll rose to 4,20,551 with 535 fresh fatalities, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Sunday.

India added 39,742 new cases of coronavirus infection taking the total tally of COVID-19 cases to 3,13,71,901, while the death toll rose to 4,20,551 with 535 fresh fatalities, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Sunday. The active cases have declined to 4,08,212 and comprise 1.30 per cent of the total infections and the national COVID-19 recovery rate has been recorded at 97.36 per cent, the data updated at 8 am showed. A decline of 765 cases has been recorded in the active COVID-19 caseload in a span of 24 hours. As many as 17,18,756 tests were conducted on Saturday taking the total cumulative tests conducted so far for detection of COVID-19 in the country to 45,62,89,567. The daily positivity rate was recorded at 2.31 per cent. It has been less than three per cent for 34 consecutive days, the ministry said, adding the weekly positivity rate was recorded at 2.24 per cent. The number of people, who have recuperated from the disease surged to 3,05,43,138, while the case fatality rate stands at 1.34 per cent, the data stated. Cumulative vaccine doses administered so far has reached 43.31 crore under the nationwide vaccination drive. The 535 new fatalities include 224 from Maharashtra and 98 from Kerala. A total of 4,20551 deaths have been reported so far in the country including 1,31,429 from Maharashtra, 36,352 from Karnataka, 33,889 from Tamil Nadu, 25,041 from Delhi, 22,749 from Uttar Pradesh and 18,064 from West Bengal. The health ministry stressed that more than 70 per cent of the deaths occurred due to comorbidities.

COVID-19: India logs 39,742 new cases, 535 fresh fatalities

In order to commemorate the sacrifices made by soldiers in the war where the Indian Army recaptured all the Indian posts in Kargil that had been occupied by Pakistan's army, July 26 every year is observed as Kargil Vijay Diwas.&nbsp;

The conflict is believed to have been orchestrated by the then Pakistan army chief General Pervez Musharraf without the knowledge of the then Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif.

The war took place between May and July of 1999 in Jammu and Kashmir's Kargil district.&nbsp;

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Tomorrow, 26th July, our nation will mark Kargil Vijay Diwas. 
 
Let us pay tributes to those who made our nation proud in 1999. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MannKiBaat?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MannKiBaat</a> <a href="https://t.co/hfeF9RMX0d">pic.twitter.com/hfeF9RMX0d</a>
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/1419169202397581314?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 25, 2021</a></blockquote>
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It started when Pakistani troops and terrorists infiltrated Indian territory.&nbsp;They positioned themselves in key locations.&nbsp;

This was done so that they get a strategic advantage during the start of the conflict.&nbsp;

Based on information provided by local shepherds, the Indian Army was able to ascertain the points of incursion and launch what is termed as 'Operation Vijay'.

It started when on May 2, 1999, a man called Tashi Namgyal, a local shepherd living in a small village called Gharkon near mountainous Batalik town of Kargil spotted six men breaking stones and clearing the snow when he was looking for his list Yak.

This was unusual for Tashi as he saw no footprints leading to the spot and it was clear that they had come from the other side.

The men wore Pathani dress and army uniforms, few of them carried weapons too. &nbsp;

Tashi was the first to report the infiltration in Kargil to the army and it was after his information that a team was sent to scan the area. What the group of 20-25 Indian army men found was surprising...men with arms and ammunition getting ready. On his information, the Indian army moved quickly and minimised the possible damage.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kargil-war-shepherd-who-informed-indian-army-of-pakistan-infiltration-still-awaits-recognition-238499">Also read |&nbsp;Kargil War: Shepherd who informed Indian army of Pakistan infiltration still awaits recognition</a>

However, the victory for the Indian army came at a high price as the death toll on the Indian side was 527, while that on the Pakistani side was between 357 and 453.

"Operation Vijay was a perfect blend of strong and determined political, military and diplomatic actions which enabled us to transform an adverse situation into a military and diplomatic victory," VP Malik who was the Army Chief during Kargil War summed up in a 2002 article.

Pakistan faced global pressure, with the then US President Bill Clinton persuading Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif to pull out from Kargil in early July through a telephonic conversation.&nbsp;

The Kargil War officially ended on July 26.

As per an Indian Express article which is available in the MEA archives there is a part of a paper by Bruce Riedel, a director on the Bill Clinton administration's National Security Council.&nbsp;

It says that the conflict saw “furious artillery clashes, air battles and costly infantry assaults by Indian troops against well dug-in Pakistani forces. Pakistan denied its troops were involved, claiming that only Kashmiri militants were doing the fighting — a claim not taken seriously anywhere.”

In order to commemorate the sacrifices made by soldiers in the war where the Indian Army recaptured all the Indian posts in Kargil that had been occupied by Pakistan's army, July 26 every year is observed as Kargil Vijay Diwas.

In order to commemorate the sacrifices made by soldiers in the war where the Indian Army recaptured all the Indian posts in Kargil that had been occupied by Pakistan's army, July 26 every year is observed as Kargil Vijay Diwas. The conflict is believed to have been orchestrated by the then Pakistan army chief General Pervez Musharraf without the knowledge of the then Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif. The war took place between May and July of 1999 in Jammu and Kashmir's Kargil district. Tomorrow, 26th July, our nation will mark Kargil Vijay Diwas. Let us pay tributes to those who made our nation proud in 1999. #MannKiBaat pic.twitter.com/hfeF9RMX0d — PMO India (@PMOIndia) July 25, 2021 × It started when Pakistani troops and terrorists infiltrated Indian territory. They positioned themselves in key locations. This was done so that they get a strategic advantage during the start of the conflict. Based on information provided by local shepherds, the Indian Army was able to ascertain the points of incursion and launch what is termed as 'Operation Vijay'. It started when on May 2, 1999, a man called Tashi Namgyal, a local shepherd living in a small village called Gharkon near mountainous Batalik town of Kargil spotted six men breaking stones and clearing the snow when he was looking for his list Yak. This was unusual for Tashi as he saw no footprints leading to the spot and it was clear that they had come from the other side. The men wore Pathani dress and army uniforms, few of them carried weapons too. Tashi was the first to report the infiltration in Kargil to the army and it was after his information that a team was sent to scan the area. What the group of 20-25 Indian army men found was surprising...men with arms and ammunition getting ready. On his information, the Indian army moved quickly and minimised the possible damage. Also read | Kargil War: Shepherd who informed Indian army of Pakistan infiltration still awaits recognition However, the victory for the Indian army came at a high price as the death toll on the Indian side was 527, while that on the Pakistani side was between 357 and 453. "Operation Vijay was a perfect blend of strong and determined political, military and diplomatic actions which enabled us to transform an adverse situation into a military and diplomatic victory," VP Malik who was the Army Chief during Kargil War summed up in a 2002 article. Pakistan faced global pressure, with the then US President Bill Clinton persuading Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif to pull out from Kargil in early July through a telephonic conversation. The Kargil War officially ended on July 26. As per an Indian Express article which is available in the MEA archives there is a part of a paper by Bruce Riedel, a director on the Bill Clinton administration's National Security Council. It says that the conflict saw “furious artillery clashes, air battles and costly infantry assaults by Indian troops against well dug-in Pakistani forces. Pakistan denied its troops were involved, claiming that only Kashmiri militants were doing the fighting — a claim not taken seriously anywhere.”

22 years of Kargil Vijay Diwas: Here is all you need to know

The spokesperson of the Tibetan government in exile(Central Tibetan Administration)&nbsp;Tenzin Lekshay has said that Chinese President Xi Jinping should understand the "aspirations of Tibetan people" and "resolve the Sino-Tibet conflict".&nbsp;

His comments come in the backdrop of Xi Jinping's surprise visit to the region. It is after 30 years that a Chinese president has visited the troubled region, the last being&nbsp;Jiang Zemin in 1990.

Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal,&nbsp;Lekshay called for the resumption of dialogue between representatives of his holiness the Dalai Lama and the Chinese government. State media showed Xi in Tibet's capital Lhasa being greeted by locals in ethnic clothes waving Chinese flags in what is expectedly a choreographed move.&nbsp;

The general secretary of the Communist Party of China's central committee was also present at the Potala Palace Square. Potala Palace was the&nbsp;winter palace of the&nbsp;Dalai Lama&nbsp;till 1959 when China occupied the region.

WION: Your reaction to Xi Jinping's Tibet visit?

Tenzin Lekshay: Xi Jinping's visit to Tibet just came in the news and was not highlighted before&nbsp;as it was secretive. What we believe, this is his first visit after becoming the president of China which signifies that Tibet is still very important to China.

So in spite of the fact&nbsp;that so many problems have been happening inside China, he visited Tibet. Therefore, it shows, surely signifies Tibet still matters a lot to China.&nbsp;

WION: Any message in terms of the visit of Xi to Tibet?

Tenzin Lekshay: As expected if you look back in 2011&nbsp;when he was the vice president&nbsp;he visited Tibet and now ten&nbsp;years later he is visiting again.

This year China marks the 70 years of the so-called peaceful liberation of Tibet&nbsp;which Tibetans rejected. This year&nbsp;they are trying to show the world everything inside Tibet is good.

However, this visit is&nbsp;a very significant development, we believe Xi Jinping should understand the aspirations of the Tibetan people&nbsp;and when he is in Tibet he should help resolve the Sino-Tibet conflict which has been there since 1959.&nbsp;

It is very important for him for the sake of the future of China and Tibet that we should resume dialogue between representatives of his holiness the Dalai Lama and the Chinese government.

The spokesperson of the Tibetan government in exile(Central Tibetan Administration) Tenzin Lekshay has said that Chinese President Xi Jinping should understand the "aspirations of Tibetan people" and "resolve the Sino-Tibet conflict".

The spokesperson of the Tibetan government in exile(Central Tibetan Administration) Tenzin Lekshay has said that Chinese President Xi Jinping should understand the "aspirations of Tibetan people" and "resolve the Sino-Tibet conflict". His comments come in the backdrop of Xi Jinping's surprise visit to the region. It is after 30 years that a Chinese president has visited the troubled region, the last being Jiang Zemin in 1990. Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Lekshay called for the resumption of dialogue between representatives of his holiness the Dalai Lama and the Chinese government. State media showed Xi in Tibet's capital Lhasa being greeted by locals in ethnic clothes waving Chinese flags in what is expectedly a choreographed move. The general secretary of the Communist Party of China's central committee was also present at the Potala Palace Square. Potala Palace was the winter palace of the Dalai Lama till 1959 when China occupied the region. WION: Your reaction to Xi Jinping's Tibet visit? Tenzin Lekshay: Xi Jinping's visit to Tibet just came in the news and was not highlighted before as it was secretive. What we believe, this is his first visit after becoming the president of China which signifies that Tibet is still very important to China. So in spite of the fact that so many problems have been happening inside China, he visited Tibet. Therefore, it shows, surely signifies Tibet still matters a lot to China. WION: Any message in terms of the visit of Xi to Tibet? Tenzin Lekshay: As expected if you look back in 2011 when he was the vice president he visited Tibet and now ten years later he is visiting again. This year China marks the 70 years of the so-called peaceful liberation of Tibet which Tibetans rejected. This year they are trying to show the world everything inside Tibet is good. However, this visit is a very significant development, we believe Xi Jinping should understand the aspirations of the Tibetan people and when he is in Tibet he should help resolve the Sino-Tibet conflict which has been there since 1959. It is very important for him for the sake of the future of China and Tibet that we should resume dialogue between representatives of his holiness the Dalai Lama and the Chinese government.

China trying to show everything is good in Tibet, says Tibetan government in exile

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