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Even as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to rage in Kerala, state Health Minister Veena George on Thursday (July 8) said that Zika virus cases have been detected in the state. A 24-year-old pregnant woman has been diagnosed with the mosquito-transmitted disease. Zika virus can create complications for pregnant women.

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India's Minister of External Affairs Subrahmanyam&nbsp;Jaishankar&nbsp;will be on a visit to Central Asia next week, his one-stop will be Tajikistan for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation or SCO Foreign ministers meet, and another will be Uzbekistan for connectivity meet.

The ministerial meeting of SCO will take place in Tajik Capital Dushanbe on&nbsp;July 13 and 14.

Afghanistan will be the key focus with the SCO-Afghanistan foreign ministers&nbsp;meeting that will take place on&nbsp;July 14.

Tajikistan is chair of the grouping which has eight&nbsp;member countries includiing Russia, China, India, Pakistan, and four&nbsp;central Asian countries, that are Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan.

The Dushanbe meet comes at a crucial time when the Taliban has been making rapid gains in the country territorially especially in north Afghanistan bordering Tajikistan. A few days ago over 1000 Afghan soldiers had fled Afghanistan and crossed over to Tajikistan as the Taliban made rapid advances.

India's foreign minister said on Friday he was concerned over developments in Afghanistan and called for a reduction in the level of violence.

The situation in the war-torn nation has a direct bearing on regional security, S&nbsp;Jaishankar&nbsp;told a news conference in Moscow after meeting Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov.

Taliban officials said on Friday the Sunni Muslim insurgent group had taken control of 85 per cent&nbsp;of territory in Afghanistan, as the United States and others withdrew the bulk of their troops after 20 years of fighting.

Uzbekistan's capital Tashkent will be hosting&nbsp;the international conference "Central and South Asia: Regional Interconnectedness. Challenges and Opportunities".

The summit, which will happen July 15 and 16, will have three&nbsp;common themes of discussion--Economic, Cultural, security- connectivity and aims to refresh historical ties. Leadership and representatives of Russia, Iran, Pakistan, China, the US, and the EU have also been invited to the summit.

Interestingly, Pakistani foreign minister SM Qureshi will also be present in both capitals for the same meetings as well. This is the third time both FMs will be present in the same location at the same time this year. Earlier at the heart of Asia meet in Dushanbe, and bilateral visits to UAE, both were present in the same capital but no talks, formal or informal took place.

India's Minister of External Affairs Subrahmanyam Jaishankar will be on a visit to Central Asia next week, his one-stop will be Tajikistan for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation or SCO Foreign ministers meet, and another will be Uzbekistan for connectivity meet.

India's Minister of External Affairs Subrahmanyam Jaishankar will be on a visit to Central Asia next week, his one-stop will be Tajikistan for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation or SCO Foreign ministers meet, and another will be Uzbekistan for connectivity meet. The ministerial meeting of SCO will take place in Tajik Capital Dushanbe on July 13 and 14. Afghanistan will be the key focus with the SCO-Afghanistan foreign ministers meeting that will take place on July 14. Tajikistan is chair of the grouping which has eight member countries includiing Russia, China, India, Pakistan, and four central Asian countries, that are Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan. The Dushanbe meet comes at a crucial time when the Taliban has been making rapid gains in the country territorially especially in north Afghanistan bordering Tajikistan. A few days ago over 1000 Afghan soldiers had fled Afghanistan and crossed over to Tajikistan as the Taliban made rapid advances. India's foreign minister said on Friday he was concerned over developments in Afghanistan and called for a reduction in the level of violence. The situation in the war-torn nation has a direct bearing on regional security, S Jaishankar told a news conference in Moscow after meeting Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov. Taliban officials said on Friday the Sunni Muslim insurgent group had taken control of 85 per cent of territory in Afghanistan, as the United States and others withdrew the bulk of their troops after 20 years of fighting. Uzbekistan's capital Tashkent will be hosting the international conference "Central and South Asia: Regional Interconnectedness. Challenges and Opportunities". The summit, which will happen July 15 and 16, will have three common themes of discussion--Economic, Cultural, security- connectivity and aims to refresh historical ties. Leadership and representatives of Russia, Iran, Pakistan, China, the US, and the EU have also been invited to the summit. Interestingly, Pakistani foreign minister SM Qureshi will also be present in both capitals for the same meetings as well. This is the third time both FMs will be present in the same location at the same time this year. Earlier at the heart of Asia meet in Dushanbe, and bilateral visits to UAE, both were present in the same capital but no talks, formal or informal took place.

India's Minister of External Affairs Jaishankar to be on Central Asia visit next week

S. Jaishankar, delivering a speech on India-Russia ties in a changing world at the Primakov Institute of World Economy and International Relations here. During his address, Jaishankar said India’s strategic, diplomatic and cultural ties with Russia are important in today’s world.

'India-Russia ties among steadliest in the world': EAM S Jaishankar

Working for the Indian government's desk jobs is often seen as a safe, stress-free environment and with fixed working hours.

However, a new order may signal the end of the traditional 9-to-5 workday for some government employees in India.&nbsp;

Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, who was recently appointed, has ordered his officials and personnel to work in two shifts.

The first shift will begin at 7 am&nbsp;and conclude at 4 pm, while the second will begin at 3 pm&nbsp;and conclude at 12 am.

The order stated, "Hon'ble MR (Minister of Railways) has directed that all officials and staff of MR Cell will work in two shifts i.e. 7:00 hours-16:00 hrs and 15:00 hrs-12:00 midnight with immediate effect."

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Assumed the charge of Minister of Communications at Sanchar Bhawan today. <a href="https://t.co/BPQYyDxNVG">pic.twitter.com/BPQYyDxNVG</a>
— Ashwini Vaishnaw (@AshwiniVaishnaw) <a href="https://twitter.com/AshwiniVaishnaw/status/1413036077493874689?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 8, 2021</a></blockquote>
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"There's so much to accomplish, and every minute counts...Railways," said DJ Narain, ADG PR for the Ministry of Railways.&nbsp;

Vaishnav, the MP from Odisha, on Wednesday took oath as the Cabinet Minister and was given the charge of Railways along with the Information and Technology Ministry.

“There are lots of synergies in the three and I will be working to ensure that his (PM Modi’s) vision is implemented,” Vaishnaw told reporters as he assumed command.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Working for the Indian government's desk jobs is often seen as a safe, stress-free environment and with fixed working hours. However, a new order may signal the end of the traditional 9-to-5 workday for some government employees in India.

Working for the Indian government's desk jobs is often seen as a safe, stress-free environment and with fixed working hours. However, a new order may signal the end of the traditional 9-to-5 workday for some government employees in India. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, who was recently appointed, has ordered his officials and personnel to work in two shifts. The first shift will begin at 7 am and conclude at 4 pm, while the second will begin at 3 pm and conclude at 12 am. The order stated, "Hon'ble MR (Minister of Railways) has directed that all officials and staff of MR Cell will work in two shifts i.e. 7:00 hours-16:00 hrs and 15:00 hrs-12:00 midnight with immediate effect." Assumed the charge of Minister of Communications at Sanchar Bhawan today. pic.twitter.com/BPQYyDxNVG — Ashwini Vaishnaw (@AshwiniVaishnaw) July 8, 2021 × "There's so much to accomplish, and every minute counts...Railways," said DJ Narain, ADG PR for the Ministry of Railways. Vaishnav, the MP from Odisha, on Wednesday took oath as the Cabinet Minister and was given the charge of Railways along with the Information and Technology Ministry. “There are lots of synergies in the three and I will be working to ensure that his (PM Modi’s) vision is implemented,” Vaishnaw told reporters as he assumed command. (With inputs from agencies)

Efficiency drive: Indian rail minister asks officers to work from morning to midnight in two shifts

Whatsapp told the Delhi High Court on Friday that till the data protection bill comes into force, it would not compel users to opt for its new privacy policy as it has been put on hold.

Whatsapp also clarified before the bench of Chief justice D N Patel and Justice Jyoti Singh that it would not limit the functionality for users who are not opting for a new privacy policy in the meantime.

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Appearing for the instant messaging platform, Senior Advocate Harish Salve said, "We voluntarily agreed to put it (the policy) on hold... We will not compel people to accept."

Salve said that Whatsapp would nonetheless continue to display the update to its users.

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The court is hearing the appeals of Facebook and its firm WhatsApp against the single-judge order refusing to stop the competition regulator CCI's order directing a probe into WhatsApp's new privacy policy.&nbsp;

Whatsapp told the Delhi High Court on Friday that till the data protection bill comes into force, it would not compel users to opt for its new privacy policy as it has been put on hold.

Whatsapp told the Delhi High Court on Friday that till the data protection bill comes into force, it would not compel users to opt for its new privacy policy as it has been put on hold. Whatsapp also clarified before the bench of Chief justice D N Patel and Justice Jyoti Singh that it would not limit the functionality for users who are not opting for a new privacy policy in the meantime. Also read | WhatsApp goes to court over Indian government's new IT rules Appearing for the instant messaging platform, Senior Advocate Harish Salve said, "We voluntarily agreed to put it (the policy) on hold... We will not compel people to accept." Salve said that Whatsapp would nonetheless continue to display the update to its users. The court is hearing the appeals of Facebook and its firm WhatsApp against the single-judge order refusing to stop the competition regulator CCI's order directing a probe into WhatsApp's new privacy policy.

Won't compel users to accept new privacy policy, WhatsApp tells Delhi HC

India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar&nbsp;has urged for "constant sensitivity" to the "interests of a crucial strategic partner" during his Moscow visit.

The remark is significant in light of Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's visit to Islamabad earlier this year.&nbsp;

Lavrov went to Pakistan from India, marking the first time a Russian foreign minister has visited the country in many years.&nbsp;

"A key concern even while widening options is to ensure consistent sensitivity to the interests of a critical strategic partner. Indeed, it is this deep sense of consideration for each other that has been the formula of our ties. Mutual interest mandates that this continues to be so between India and Russia," Jaishankar said at the Primakov Institute of World Economy and International Relations.&nbsp;

The remarks are also significant in terms of India-Russia-China relations.

Moscow has strong relationships with both Delhi and Beijing, but due to China's confrontational and aggressive behaviour, India and China don't&nbsp;have a friendly relationship.

Russia is also regarded as dragging its feet on the Indo-Pacific vision, which China sees as an attempt to encircle it.&nbsp;

"That is absolutely the case with the Indo-Pacific, whose disconnection was a product of a certain period in history," Jaishankar said of the Indo-Pacific.&nbsp;

He added, "We must move beyond such anachronisms for a country like India, which now exports the majority of its goods eastward.

"Today, our interests and reach stretch all the way to the Pacific. Our most important partners are based there, with cooperation with Russia's Far East being one notable example."&nbsp;

From trade to defence, the two countries enjoy a multidimensional connection.

India is actively pursuing a trade pact with Russia's Eurasian Economic Union, and will receive the first S400 units by the end of this year.&nbsp;

"Enormous experience of past cooperation is now being put to a more contemporary requirement, including the Make in India programme," Jaishankar said, praising Russia as a "dependable defence partner of India."&nbsp;

Today, Jaishankar will meet with his Russian counterpart, Sergey Lavrov.

This is their second face-to-face meeting this year. Lavrov visited India earlier this year.

Vladimir Putin, the Russian president, will visit India later this year for the annual India-Russia summit.

India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar has urged for "constant sensitivity" to the "interests of a crucial strategic partner" during his Moscow visit.

India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar has urged for "constant sensitivity" to the "interests of a crucial strategic partner" during his Moscow visit. The remark is significant in light of Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's visit to Islamabad earlier this year. Lavrov went to Pakistan from India, marking the first time a Russian foreign minister has visited the country in many years. "A key concern even while widening options is to ensure consistent sensitivity to the interests of a critical strategic partner. Indeed, it is this deep sense of consideration for each other that has been the formula of our ties. Mutual interest mandates that this continues to be so between India and Russia," Jaishankar said at the Primakov Institute of World Economy and International Relations. The remarks are also significant in terms of India-Russia-China relations. Moscow has strong relationships with both Delhi and Beijing, but due to China's confrontational and aggressive behaviour, India and China don't have a friendly relationship. Russia is also regarded as dragging its feet on the Indo-Pacific vision, which China sees as an attempt to encircle it. "That is absolutely the case with the Indo-Pacific, whose disconnection was a product of a certain period in history," Jaishankar said of the Indo-Pacific. He added, "We must move beyond such anachronisms for a country like India, which now exports the majority of its goods eastward. "Today, our interests and reach stretch all the way to the Pacific. Our most important partners are based there, with cooperation with Russia's Far East being one notable example." From trade to defence, the two countries enjoy a multidimensional connection. India is actively pursuing a trade pact with Russia's Eurasian Economic Union, and will receive the first S400 units by the end of this year. "Enormous experience of past cooperation is now being put to a more contemporary requirement, including the Make in India programme," Jaishankar said, praising Russia as a "dependable defence partner of India." Today, Jaishankar will meet with his Russian counterpart, Sergey Lavrov. This is their second face-to-face meeting this year. Lavrov visited India earlier this year. Vladimir Putin, the Russian president, will visit India later this year for the annual India-Russia summit.

In Moscow, Indian Foreign Minister Dr S Jaishankar calls for 'consistent sensitivity' to the interests of partners 

India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar will be in Georgia from July 9&nbsp;to 10, a significant visit as part of India's engagement with the Caucasus.

It&nbsp;is the first visit by an Indian external affairs minister to Georgia since it gained independence from the former Soviet Union in 1991. During the visit to Georgia's capital Tbilisi, EAM will hold talks with Georgia's FM David Zalkaliani.

Jaishankar will visit&nbsp;the country while coming back from his visit to Moscow. Georgia and Russia don't share a positive relation. 2008 saw a brief war between the two&nbsp;countries after which two&nbsp;regions of the country - South Ossetia and Abkhazia declared independence with Moscow's blessings.

While Russia recognises both territories as independent states, Georgia has rejected the move. New Delhi does not recognise either&nbsp;region as&nbsp;separate countries.

It&nbsp;comes&nbsp;even as Russian foreign minister Sergey Lavrov visited Pakistan after his India visit earlier this year. While Russia dismissed any closeness to Islamabad, many in Delhi saw an attempt by Moscow to hyphenate India and Pakistan. Lavrov's 2021 visit to Pakistan was the first visit by the Russian foreign minister to Islamabad since 2012.

This is also the first visit by an Indian EAM to Georgia in the last 40 years. The last time an Indian EAM visited the country was Atal Bihari Vajpayee who visited Georgia in June 1978 as external affairs minister. After that&nbsp;Georgian foreign minister Irakli Menagarishvili and former external affairs minister Jaswant Singh had met in New Delhi on 11 May, 2000.

India and Georgia do share a lot of historical connect. Mughal emperor Aurangzeb’s wife Udaipuri Begum was of Georgian origin. Queen St. Ketevan, who was the queen of Kakheti, a kingdom in eastern Georgia and was canonized as a saint by the Georgian Orthodox Church is buried in St. Augustine Tower in Goa.

St. Ketevan attained martyrdom in 1624 in Shiraz, Iran and her relics were brought to India by the Portuguese. Georgian embassy is keen that the relics be transferred to Georgia.

Georgian medieval epic poem, written in the 12th century - The Knight in the Panther's Skin has references to India. It is written by Shota Rustaveli, who is considered the country's national poet. It is believed that Panchtantra has influenced Georgian folk legends.

The Indian embassy in Armenia is concurrently accredited to Georgia while Georgia has an embassy in Delhi.

India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar will be in Georgia from July 9 to 10, a significant visit as part of India's engagement with the Caucasus. It is the first visit by an Indian external affairs minister to Georgia since it gained independence from the former Soviet Union in 1991.

India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar will be in Georgia from July 9 to 10, a significant visit as part of India's engagement with the Caucasus. It is the first visit by an Indian external affairs minister to Georgia since it gained independence from the former Soviet Union in 1991. During the visit to Georgia's capital Tbilisi, EAM will hold talks with Georgia's FM David Zalkaliani. Jaishankar will visit the country while coming back from his visit to Moscow. Georgia and Russia don't share a positive relation. 2008 saw a brief war between the two countries after which two regions of the country - South Ossetia and Abkhazia declared independence with Moscow's blessings. While Russia recognises both territories as independent states, Georgia has rejected the move. New Delhi does not recognise either region as separate countries. It comes even as Russian foreign minister Sergey Lavrov visited Pakistan after his India visit earlier this year. While Russia dismissed any closeness to Islamabad, many in Delhi saw an attempt by Moscow to hyphenate India and Pakistan. Lavrov's 2021 visit to Pakistan was the first visit by the Russian foreign minister to Islamabad since 2012. This is also the first visit by an Indian EAM to Georgia in the last 40 years. The last time an Indian EAM visited the country was Atal Bihari Vajpayee who visited Georgia in June 1978 as external affairs minister. After that Georgian foreign minister Irakli Menagarishvili and former external affairs minister Jaswant Singh had met in New Delhi on 11 May, 2000. India and Georgia do share a lot of historical connect. Mughal emperor Aurangzeb’s wife Udaipuri Begum was of Georgian origin. Queen St. Ketevan, who was the queen of Kakheti, a kingdom in eastern Georgia and was canonized as a saint by the Georgian Orthodox Church is buried in St. Augustine Tower in Goa. St. Ketevan attained martyrdom in 1624 in Shiraz, Iran and her relics were brought to India by the Portuguese. Georgian embassy is keen that the relics be transferred to Georgia. Georgian medieval epic poem, written in the 12th century - The Knight in the Panther's Skin has references to India. It is written by Shota Rustaveli, who is considered the country's national poet. It is believed that Panchtantra has influenced Georgian folk legends. The Indian embassy in Armenia is concurrently accredited to Georgia while Georgia has an embassy in Delhi.

Doing a Sergey! EAM Jaishankar to visit Georgia while coming from Moscow

India's external affairs minister Dr&nbsp;S Jaishankar, on Wednesday, made a halt en route Moscow. During the brief stopover, he not only held a meeting with his Iranian counterpart Javad Zarif but also called on Iran's President-Elect Ebrahim Raisi. Jaishakar is the first foreign minister to meet the new president of Iran, who was elected last month.

During his meeting with the Iranian President-elect, he handed over a personal message from Indian PM Narendra Modi. In a tweet after the meet, Indian EAM said, "Deeply value his strong commitment to strengthen our bilateral ties and expand cooperation on regional and global issues."

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Thank President-elect Ebrahim Raisi for his gracious welcome. Handed over a personal message from PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a>. Appreciate his warm sentiments for India. Deeply value his strong commitment to strengthen our bilateral ties and expand cooperation on regional and global issues. <a href="https://t.co/Ef7iEutkZi">pic.twitter.com/Ef7iEutkZi</a>
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1412769835470180355?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 7, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Afghanistan was one of the key topics of discussion during his meet with Zarif, this comes even as the Taliban makes territorial gains in the country.&nbsp;"The two sides also stressed the need to strengthen intra-Afghan dialogue in Afghanistan which leads to a comprehensive political solution,"&nbsp;Iranian foreign ministry said in a statement.

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Interestingly, hours before Jaishankar reached Tehran, Iran hosted Intra-Afghan talks. The talks saw the presence of both Taliban and Afghan government representatives. While the Afghan government's delegation was headed by Yunus Qanuni, the former foreign minister of Afghanistan, the Taliban was led by Abbas Stanikzai.

"Referring to the ongoing talks between the Afghan government and the Taliban in Tehran, the Indian Foreign Minister thanked Iran for its efforts to bring the two sides closer to a comprehensive political solution", the Iranian foreign ministry statement read.

During the talks, Vienna talks about the JCPOA or the Iran nuclear deal, cooperation in Chabahar port was also discussed. Iran's Chabahar port has been a key connectivity project that New Delhi has been invested in as it provides connectivity not only to Afghanistan but also to central Asia.

India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar, on Wednesday, made a halt en route Moscow. During the brief stopover, he not only held a meeting with his Iranian counterpart Javad Zarif but also called on Iran's President-Elect Ebrahim Raisi.

India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar, on Wednesday, made a halt en route Moscow. During the brief stopover, he not only held a meeting with his Iranian counterpart Javad Zarif but also called on Iran's President-Elect Ebrahim Raisi. Jaishakar is the first foreign minister to meet the new president of Iran, who was elected last month. During his meeting with the Iranian President-elect, he handed over a personal message from Indian PM Narendra Modi. In a tweet after the meet, Indian EAM said, "Deeply value his strong commitment to strengthen our bilateral ties and expand cooperation on regional and global issues." Thank President-elect Ebrahim Raisi for his gracious welcome. Handed over a personal message from PM @narendramodi. Appreciate his warm sentiments for India. Deeply value his strong commitment to strengthen our bilateral ties and expand cooperation on regional and global issues. pic.twitter.com/Ef7iEutkZi — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) July 7, 2021 × Afghanistan was one of the key topics of discussion during his meet with Zarif, this comes even as the Taliban makes territorial gains in the country. "The two sides also stressed the need to strengthen intra-Afghan dialogue in Afghanistan which leads to a comprehensive political solution," Iranian foreign ministry said in a statement. Also read | Iran's President, Hassan Rouhani, issues rare apology for power cuts Interestingly, hours before Jaishankar reached Tehran, Iran hosted Intra-Afghan talks. The talks saw the presence of both Taliban and Afghan government representatives. While the Afghan government's delegation was headed by Yunus Qanuni, the former foreign minister of Afghanistan, the Taliban was led by Abbas Stanikzai. "Referring to the ongoing talks between the Afghan government and the Taliban in Tehran, the Indian Foreign Minister thanked Iran for its efforts to bring the two sides closer to a comprehensive political solution", the Iranian foreign ministry statement read. During the talks, Vienna talks about the JCPOA or the Iran nuclear deal, cooperation in Chabahar port was also discussed. Iran's Chabahar port has been a key connectivity project that New Delhi has been invested in as it provides connectivity not only to Afghanistan but also to central Asia.

Jaishankar calls on new President in Iran, discusses Afghanistan

Four terrorists were killed in two separate gunfights with security forces in Jammu and Kashmir's Kulgam and Pulwama districts, according to officials.

According to a police official, security personnel conducted a cordon and search operation in the Zodar region of Kulgam district after receiving information about the presence of terrorists in the area.&nbsp;

Terrorists fired fire on security personnel, who retaliated, turning the search operation into an encounter.

In the operation, two Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorists were killed, according to the latest reports.

Meanwhile, IGP Kashmir Vijay Kumar has congratulated security forces on successful anti-terror operations that have led to the elimination of five terrorists in last 24 hours.

"Five terrorists killed in 24 hours in Kashmir. Congratulations to Police and Security Forces for conducting operations without collateral damage," IGP Kashmir Vijay Kumar said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Four terrorists were killed in two separate gunfights with security forces in Jammu and Kashmir's Kulgam and Pulwama districts, according to officials. According to a police official, security personnel conducted a cordon and search operation in the Zodar region of Kulgam district after receiving information about the presence of terrorists in the area.

Four terrorists were killed in two separate gunfights with security forces in Jammu and Kashmir's Kulgam and Pulwama districts, according to officials. According to a police official, security personnel conducted a cordon and search operation in the Zodar region of Kulgam district after receiving information about the presence of terrorists in the area. Terrorists fired fire on security personnel, who retaliated, turning the search operation into an encounter. In the operation, two Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorists were killed, according to the latest reports. Meanwhile, IGP Kashmir Vijay Kumar has congratulated security forces on successful anti-terror operations that have led to the elimination of five terrorists in last 24 hours. "Five terrorists killed in 24 hours in Kashmir. Congratulations to Police and Security Forces for conducting operations without collateral damage," IGP Kashmir Vijay Kumar said. (With inputs from agencies)

Four terrorists killed in two encounters in Jammu and Kashmir

After the Union Cabinet reshuffle on Wednesday by the Modi government, several new faces were inducted to head various ministries.

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Anurag Singh Thakur, Kiren Rijiju, Parshottam Rupala, Raj Kumar Singh, Hardeep Puri, Mansukh Mandaviya, G Kishan Reddy were elevated as cabinet ministers during the reshuffle.

Rijiju was earlier the minister of state (independent charge) in the ministry of youth and sports. He was also an MoS in the minority affairs ministry. There are 36 new faces in PM Modi's cabinet announced on Wednesday. There are seven ministers from Uttar Pradesh in the new cabinet all of whom took oath as ministers of state.&nbsp;

Fifteen cabinet ministers and 28 ministers of state were sworn-in by President Kovind at Rashtrapati Bhavan today. The total strength of the Cabinet including the PM is now stands at&nbsp;78.

List of ministers and their portfolios:

Home Minister Amit Shah gets charge of the newly-created Ministry of Cooperation.

Dharmendra Pradhan: Education minister.

Jotiraditya M Scindia: Civil aviation minister.&nbsp;

Kiren Rijiju: Law minister

Hardeep Singh Puri: Petroleum ministry besides Housing and Urban Development.

Anurag Singh Thakur: Information &amp; Broadcasting and Sports.

Mansukh Mandaviya: Health ministry&nbsp;

Ashwini Vaishnaw: Railways ministry, besides Communication &amp; Electronics and Information Technology.&nbsp;

Sarbananda Sonowal: Ports and Shipping ministry besides holding charge of AYUSH ministry. &nbsp;

Mandavia has also been given the chemicals and fertilizers ministry. Piyush Goyal will head the textlies ministry besides being the minister of commerce and industry; and the minister of consumer affairs, food and public distribution.

Pashupati Kumar Paras, MP from Hajipur, has been given the ministry of food processing industries.

(With inputs from Agencies)

After the Union Cabinet reshuffle on Wednesday by the Modi government, several new faces were inducted to head various ministries. Also Read: PM Modi reshuffles cabinet; Jyotiraditya Scindia among others take oath Anurag Singh Thakur, Kiren Rijiju, Parshottam Rupala, Raj Kumar Singh, Hardeep Puri, Mansukh Mandaviya, G Kishan Reddy were elevated as cabinet ministers during the reshuffle.

After the Union Cabinet reshuffle on Wednesday by the Modi government, several new faces were inducted to head various ministries. Also Read: PM Modi reshuffles cabinet; Jyotiraditya Scindia among others take oath Anurag Singh Thakur, Kiren Rijiju, Parshottam Rupala, Raj Kumar Singh, Hardeep Puri, Mansukh Mandaviya, G Kishan Reddy were elevated as cabinet ministers during the reshuffle. Rijiju was earlier the minister of state (independent charge) in the ministry of youth and sports. He was also an MoS in the minority affairs ministry. There are 36 new faces in PM Modi's cabinet announced on Wednesday. There are seven ministers from Uttar Pradesh in the new cabinet all of whom took oath as ministers of state. Fifteen cabinet ministers and 28 ministers of state were sworn-in by President Kovind at Rashtrapati Bhavan today. The total strength of the Cabinet including the PM is now stands at 78. List of ministers and their portfolios: Home Minister Amit Shah gets charge of the newly-created Ministry of Cooperation. Dharmendra Pradhan: Education minister. Jotiraditya M Scindia: Civil aviation minister. Kiren Rijiju: Law minister Hardeep Singh Puri: Petroleum ministry besides Housing and Urban Development. Anurag Singh Thakur: Information & Broadcasting and Sports. Mansukh Mandaviya: Health ministry Ashwini Vaishnaw: Railways ministry, besides Communication & Electronics and Information Technology. Sarbananda Sonowal: Ports and Shipping ministry besides holding charge of AYUSH ministry. Mandavia has also been given the chemicals and fertilizers ministry. Piyush Goyal will head the textlies ministry besides being the minister of commerce and industry; and the minister of consumer affairs, food and public distribution. Pashupati Kumar Paras, MP from Hajipur, has been given the ministry of food processing industries. (With inputs from Agencies)

Modi government cabinet reshuffle: Ministers and their portfolios

Indian cabinet under Prime Minister Narendra Modi has undergone an overhaul. A total of 43 leaders took oath as ministers in a ceremony held in the Darbar Hall of the President's House on Wednesday.

Indian PM Modi reshuffles cabinet: 43 new ministers sworn in at President's House

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Thursday said that the relation between India and Russia have been among the steadiest of the major relationships in the world after the second World War, and New Delhi was looking forward to hosting President Vladimir Putin in the country for the annual bilateral summit.

Jaishankar, delivering a speech on India-Russia ties in a changing world at the Primakov Institute of World Economy and International Relations, said that this relationship is sometimes taken for granted.

“The case for its constant nurturing” is powerful, he said.

“There’s no doubt that relations between India and Russia have been among the steadiest of the major relationships in the world after the second World War,” he said.

Russians will surely recall the ups and downs in the ties with the US, Europe, China or Japan or Turkey and Iraq, the minister said.

“On their part, objective Indians would also recognise that this was the case with them as well.

“Where India-Russia bilateral ties are concerned, there have been many changes, even issues from time to time. But at the end of the day, the logic of geo-politics was so compelling that we barely remember these even as minor aberrations,” Jaishankar said.

The undeniable reality of the exceptional resilience of India-Russia ties is surely a phenomenon that is worth analysing, he said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin have met 19 times since 2014, Jaishankar said.

“That itself speaks a lot,” he said.

“We, of course, look forward to hosting the President (Putin) in India for the annual bilateral summit,” Jaishankar added.&nbsp;

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Thursday said that the relation between India and Russia have been among the steadiest of the major relationships in the world after the second World War, and New Delhi was looking forward to hosting President Vladimir Putin in the country for the annual bilateral summit.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Thursday said that the relation between India and Russia have been among the steadiest of the major relationships in the world after the second World War, and New Delhi was looking forward to hosting President Vladimir Putin in the country for the annual bilateral summit. Jaishankar, delivering a speech on India-Russia ties in a changing world at the Primakov Institute of World Economy and International Relations, said that this relationship is sometimes taken for granted. “The case for its constant nurturing” is powerful, he said. “There’s no doubt that relations between India and Russia have been among the steadiest of the major relationships in the world after the second World War,” he said. Russians will surely recall the ups and downs in the ties with the US, Europe, China or Japan or Turkey and Iraq, the minister said. “On their part, objective Indians would also recognise that this was the case with them as well. “Where India-Russia bilateral ties are concerned, there have been many changes, even issues from time to time. But at the end of the day, the logic of geo-politics was so compelling that we barely remember these even as minor aberrations,” Jaishankar said. The undeniable reality of the exceptional resilience of India-Russia ties is surely a phenomenon that is worth analysing, he said. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin have met 19 times since 2014, Jaishankar said. “That itself speaks a lot,” he said. “We, of course, look forward to hosting the President (Putin) in India for the annual bilateral summit,” Jaishankar added.

India-Russia ties among steadiest of major relationships in the world: EAM Jaishankar

Golf courses of Kashmir Valley are famous across the world, but Kashmir has not produced a single international player in Golf. The reason being no Golf academies or training. The LG of Kashmir, Manoj Sinha recently inaugurated a golf academy for the students of government schools to take up the sport.

Golf has always been called the game of the rich&nbsp;and access to golf courses in the Valley has always been difficult.&nbsp; However, now the state administration has come up with an idea to introduce a golf academy for the students to learn and take up this sport professionally.&nbsp;

“We have made golf accessible to the common man. It is no longer the game of the elite. Dream of inclusive society being realised. J&amp;K is a powerhouse of sporting talent; UT administration is working diligently in creating a flourishing sports culture and providing the right platforms to budding sportspersons,&nbsp;'' said Manoj Sinha, LG of Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

The state administration is coming up with a multi-pronged strategy of developing sports infrastructure by organizing sports events across the UT. Also providing the best coaching, continuously monitoring and fully utilising the assets that have been prepared.&nbsp;

The golf academy has taken 50 students, 25 girls and 25 boys in its first batch. It's the first such initiative taken by the state to promote golf among the youth.&nbsp;

''Golf is not new to Kashmir, it’s been here since the 19th Century and quite a few people have taken a liking to this sport. We put up a proposal to start this academy, the LG pushed us to do so. And we have Amandeep Johar, a renowned golfer who is helping. In total 25 boys and 25 girls have been taken in the first batch. Our endeavour is to train these kids. We are bearing all the cost of the training. We are hoping to see them on international platforms. And in the future we will take more students,"&nbsp;Javaid Bakshi, secretary, golf course, said.

The student community in the Valley are extremely happy and joyous with the opening of this academy.&nbsp;

''I had no idea about it earlier but I am extremely happy about this opportunity which we have got with the help of LG of Kashmir. Now our dream is to become professional like our coaches and we are extremely happy about this opportunity. It was called the game of royals, we didn’t have the concept that we will be able to play this game. We are extremely happy especially all the girls,&nbsp;'' said Falak Shabir Khan, student.&nbsp;

The student community feels that they believed that it was the game of elites and they can’t afford to play it ever.&nbsp;

''We are very happy and this is for the first time in the history of Jammu and Kashmir that students would be trained to be professional golfers, This is a great opportunity for the students, we always heard that it’s a royal game and we always thought only rich people can afford this game. But the department has made it possible for us to play this sport and I wish I could make this sport my career,"&nbsp;said Arooj Mushtaq, student.&nbsp;

At least 17 national level sports events will be held in J&amp;K alone this year. More than 17 lakh children will take part in different sports avenues.&nbsp;

Golf courses of Kashmir Valley are famous across the world, but Kashmir has not produced a single international player in Golf. The reason being no Golf academies or training.

Golf courses of Kashmir Valley are famous across the world, but Kashmir has not produced a single international player in Golf. The reason being no Golf academies or training. The LG of Kashmir, Manoj Sinha recently inaugurated a golf academy for the students of government schools to take up the sport. Golf has always been called the game of the rich and access to golf courses in the Valley has always been difficult. However, now the state administration has come up with an idea to introduce a golf academy for the students to learn and take up this sport professionally. “We have made golf accessible to the common man. It is no longer the game of the elite. Dream of inclusive society being realised. J&K is a powerhouse of sporting talent; UT administration is working diligently in creating a flourishing sports culture and providing the right platforms to budding sportspersons, '' said Manoj Sinha, LG of Jammu and Kashmir. The state administration is coming up with a multi-pronged strategy of developing sports infrastructure by organizing sports events across the UT. Also providing the best coaching, continuously monitoring and fully utilising the assets that have been prepared. The golf academy has taken 50 students, 25 girls and 25 boys in its first batch. It's the first such initiative taken by the state to promote golf among the youth. ''Golf is not new to Kashmir, it’s been here since the 19th Century and quite a few people have taken a liking to this sport. We put up a proposal to start this academy, the LG pushed us to do so. And we have Amandeep Johar, a renowned golfer who is helping. In total 25 boys and 25 girls have been taken in the first batch. Our endeavour is to train these kids. We are bearing all the cost of the training. We are hoping to see them on international platforms. And in the future we will take more students," Javaid Bakshi, secretary, golf course, said. The student community in the Valley are extremely happy and joyous with the opening of this academy. ''I had no idea about it earlier but I am extremely happy about this opportunity which we have got with the help of LG of Kashmir. Now our dream is to become professional like our coaches and we are extremely happy about this opportunity. It was called the game of royals, we didn’t have the concept that we will be able to play this game. We are extremely happy especially all the girls, '' said Falak Shabir Khan, student. The student community feels that they believed that it was the game of elites and they can’t afford to play it ever. ''We are very happy and this is for the first time in the history of Jammu and Kashmir that students would be trained to be professional golfers, This is a great opportunity for the students, we always heard that it’s a royal game and we always thought only rich people can afford this game. But the department has made it possible for us to play this sport and I wish I could make this sport my career," said Arooj Mushtaq, student. At least 17 national level sports events will be held in J&K alone this year. More than 17 lakh children will take part in different sports avenues.

Golf academy started in J&K, game of elite open for masses

In a rare development, the Indian envoy to Saudi Arabia Dr&nbsp;Ausaf Sayeed and Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Secretary-General Dr&nbsp;Yousef Al-Othaimeen held a meeting on Monday.

The meeting took place at OIC headquarters in Jeddah which is being described as a "courtesy visit" in a release by the body.&nbsp;

According to OIC release, during the meeting, Secretary-General Dr&nbsp;Yousef Al-Othaimeen "conveyed the desire...to dispatch a delegation" to Kashmir and called for a "possibility of a meeting between Pakistan and India" in which the body is "ready to assist if the two parties would so request."&nbsp;

OIC calling for a meet comes even as New Delhi and Islamabad have been engaged in back-channel diplomacy. But recent incidents of a drone attack in Jammu&nbsp;and drone breaching security of Indian mission in Islamabad has cast a shadow on the positive developments.

The last such engagement between India and OIC took place in 2019&nbsp;when the then Indian EAM Sushma Swaraj was invited as the "guest of honour" at the OIC meeting.

The invite was extended by the host UAE for the OIC annual FMs meet that took place in Abu Dhabi. Islamabad&nbsp;which sees the grouping as its area of influence was not very happy about the development.

OIC and India don't share a very positive relationship&nbsp;with India hitting out at the body a number of times for raking up the Kashmir issue. The body, at the behest of Pakistan, has many times raked Kashmir&nbsp;irking New Delhi.&nbsp;

In a rare development, the Indian envoy to Saudi Arabia Dr Ausaf Sayeed and Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Secretary-General Dr Yousef Al-Othaimeen held a meeting on Monday.

In a rare development, the Indian envoy to Saudi Arabia Dr Ausaf Sayeed and Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Secretary-General Dr Yousef Al-Othaimeen held a meeting on Monday. The meeting took place at OIC headquarters in Jeddah which is being described as a "courtesy visit" in a release by the body. According to OIC release, during the meeting, Secretary-General Dr Yousef Al-Othaimeen "conveyed the desire...to dispatch a delegation" to Kashmir and called for a "possibility of a meeting between Pakistan and India" in which the body is "ready to assist if the two parties would so request." OIC calling for a meet comes even as New Delhi and Islamabad have been engaged in back-channel diplomacy. But recent incidents of a drone attack in Jammu and drone breaching security of Indian mission in Islamabad has cast a shadow on the positive developments. The last such engagement between India and OIC took place in 2019 when the then Indian EAM Sushma Swaraj was invited as the "guest of honour" at the OIC meeting. The invite was extended by the host UAE for the OIC annual FMs meet that took place in Abu Dhabi. Islamabad which sees the grouping as its area of influence was not very happy about the development. OIC and India don't share a very positive relationship with India hitting out at the body a number of times for raking up the Kashmir issue. The body, at the behest of Pakistan, has many times raked Kashmir irking New Delhi.

In rare development, Indian envoy in Saudi Arabia, OIC chief hold meeting

Twitter Inc Thursday informed the Delhi High Court that it has appointed an interim chief compliance officer, who is a resident of India, and said it will make an endeavour to fill the regular position within eight weeks as per the new IT Rules.

The microblogging platform said it has appointed an interim chief compliance officer (CCO) with effect from July 6 and a message&nbsp;has also been addressed to the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MEITY). 
Twitter filed an affidavit in this regard in compliance with the court's July 6 order.

Justice Rekha Palli is scheduled to shortly take up the petition claiming non-compliance with the Centre's new IT rules by the microblogging platform.

The affidavit said "Twitter has posted publicly a job announcement for a CCO as a direct employee and is accepting applications at this time. Twitter will endeavour in good faith to make an offer of employment to a qualified candidate to fill this position within 8 weeks."

It said Twitter is in the process of making an appointment to an Indian resident as its interim resident grievance officer (RGO) and expects to do so on or before July 11 and the details will be updated on its "Help Page"&nbsp;as soon as possible.

"In the meantime, the duties of the RGO are being performed by the grievance officer?"&nbsp;and will continue to do so until the appointment,"&nbsp;it said.

It said it is also in the process of appointing a nodal contact officer on an interim basis within two weeks and on a regular basis in eight weeks.

"While Twitter is striving to comply with the 2021 rules, Twitter reserves its right to challenge the legality, validity, and vires of the rules, and Twitter's submissions regarding compliance are filed without prejudice to its right to challenge the rules,"&nbsp;the affidavit said.

It added that the platform will file its first compliance report covering the period May 26 to June 25, 2021, not later than on July 11, in consistency with the 2021 rules.

Twitter also gave an interim physical contact address in Bangalore and stated that it is in the process of setting up a liaison office here which will be its permanent physical contact address.

The court had on July 6 asked Twitter to inform it by July 8 as to when it will appoint a resident grievance officer (RGO) in compliance with the new IT rules after the microblogging platform submitted that it was in the process of doing so.

The court had taken exception to the fact the court was not informed that the earlier appointment of the RGO was only on interim basis and he has already resigned.

Senior advocate Sajan Poovayya, representing Twitter, had said through Twitter was in process of making the appointment, it was true that as on date there is no chief compliance officer, RGO and nodal contact person.

Additional Solicitor General Chetan Sharma, representing the Centre, had said the rules were notified on February 25 and three-month window was given to the intermediaries to comply with the rules, which has expired on May 25.

"We are on July 6. It is a 42-day complete non-compliance. They are most welcome to do business in India. But this attitude is cock a snook at the digital sovereignty of this country,"&nbsp;he had argued.

The judge had said, "I have already told them they have to comply with the rules. I am not giving them any protection. If they are in defiance, you are free to take action. I have already made it clear if they want to work, they have to follow rules."

The court had noted that on May 31, Twitter's counsel on instructions had submitted that in compliance with the Information technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021, it has already appointed a RGO on May 28.

The Centre had said in its affidavit that Twitter Inc has failed to comply with India's new IT Rules, which could lead to its losing immunity conferred under the IT Act.

It had said as per the details obtained from Twitter's website or mobile application, as an interim, the grievances from India are being handled by the platform's official located in the US which amounts to non-compliance with the IT Rules, 2021.

The affidavit had said that Twitter has failed to comply with the IT Rules, 2021 as on July 1 for the following reasons -- chief compliance officer has not been appointed; the positions of RGO and nodal contact person are vacant, and the physical contact address, which was shown to be there on May 29, is not available again on Twitter website.

Petitioner-lawyer Amit Acharya said in his plea that he came to know about the alleged non-compliance when he tried to lodge a complaint against a couple of tweets.

Twitter Inc Thursday informed the Delhi High Court that it has appointed an interim chief compliance officer, who is a resident of India, and said it will make an endeavour to fill the regular position within eight weeks as per the new IT Rules.

Twitter Inc Thursday informed the Delhi High Court that it has appointed an interim chief compliance officer, who is a resident of India, and said it will make an endeavour to fill the regular position within eight weeks as per the new IT Rules. The microblogging platform said it has appointed an interim chief compliance officer (CCO) with effect from July 6 and a message has also been addressed to the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MEITY). Twitter filed an affidavit in this regard in compliance with the court's July 6 order. Justice Rekha Palli is scheduled to shortly take up the petition claiming non-compliance with the Centre's new IT rules by the microblogging platform. The affidavit said "Twitter has posted publicly a job announcement for a CCO as a direct employee and is accepting applications at this time. Twitter will endeavour in good faith to make an offer of employment to a qualified candidate to fill this position within 8 weeks." It said Twitter is in the process of making an appointment to an Indian resident as its interim resident grievance officer (RGO) and expects to do so on or before July 11 and the details will be updated on its "Help Page" as soon as possible. "In the meantime, the duties of the RGO are being performed by the grievance officer?" and will continue to do so until the appointment," it said. It said it is also in the process of appointing a nodal contact officer on an interim basis within two weeks and on a regular basis in eight weeks. "While Twitter is striving to comply with the 2021 rules, Twitter reserves its right to challenge the legality, validity, and vires of the rules, and Twitter's submissions regarding compliance are filed without prejudice to its right to challenge the rules," the affidavit said. It added that the platform will file its first compliance report covering the period May 26 to June 25, 2021, not later than on July 11, in consistency with the 2021 rules. Twitter also gave an interim physical contact address in Bangalore and stated that it is in the process of setting up a liaison office here which will be its permanent physical contact address. The court had on July 6 asked Twitter to inform it by July 8 as to when it will appoint a resident grievance officer (RGO) in compliance with the new IT rules after the microblogging platform submitted that it was in the process of doing so. The court had taken exception to the fact the court was not informed that the earlier appointment of the RGO was only on interim basis and he has already resigned. Senior advocate Sajan Poovayya, representing Twitter, had said through Twitter was in process of making the appointment, it was true that as on date there is no chief compliance officer, RGO and nodal contact person. Additional Solicitor General Chetan Sharma, representing the Centre, had said the rules were notified on February 25 and three-month window was given to the intermediaries to comply with the rules, which has expired on May 25. "We are on July 6. It is a 42-day complete non-compliance. They are most welcome to do business in India. But this attitude is cock a snook at the digital sovereignty of this country," he had argued. The judge had said, "I have already told them they have to comply with the rules. I am not giving them any protection. If they are in defiance, you are free to take action. I have already made it clear if they want to work, they have to follow rules." The court had noted that on May 31, Twitter's counsel on instructions had submitted that in compliance with the Information technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021, it has already appointed a RGO on May 28. The Centre had said in its affidavit that Twitter Inc has failed to comply with India's new IT Rules, which could lead to its losing immunity conferred under the IT Act. It had said as per the details obtained from Twitter's website or mobile application, as an interim, the grievances from India are being handled by the platform's official located in the US which amounts to non-compliance with the IT Rules, 2021. The affidavit had said that Twitter has failed to comply with the IT Rules, 2021 as on July 1 for the following reasons -- chief compliance officer has not been appointed; the positions of RGO and nodal contact person are vacant, and the physical contact address, which was shown to be there on May 29, is not available again on Twitter website. Petitioner-lawyer Amit Acharya said in his plea that he came to know about the alleged non-compliance when he tried to lodge a complaint against a couple of tweets.

Twitter appoints interim chief compliance officer in India

Indian Minister of Railways and Information Technology Ashwini Vaishnaw on Thursday sais that the law of the land is supreme and that Twitter will have to fall in line and comply with new social media and intermediary guidelines.

“Whoever is a citizen of India and those who stay in India will have to abide by the laws of the country,” he said hours after taking over as the minister.

The warning comes amid a tense relationship between Twitter and the government of India over new IT rules that make social media platforms more liable for third-party information; analysts believe this implies Twitter has lost legal immunity in cases involving user-generated content.

Vaishnav, the MP from Odisha, on Wednesday took oath as the Cabinet Minister and was given the charge of Railways along with the Information and Technology Ministry. 
 
He said was thankful to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for giving him the responsibility.

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Assumed the charge of Minister of Communications at Sanchar Bhawan today. <a href="https://t.co/BPQYyDxNVG">pic.twitter.com/BPQYyDxNVG</a>
— Ashwini Vaishnaw (@AshwiniVaishnaw) <a href="https://twitter.com/AshwiniVaishnaw/status/1413036077493874689?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 8, 2021</a></blockquote>
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He said his focus will be on improving the life of the last man standing in the queue.

In past, Vaishnav, while speaking in the Rajya Sabha, had raised the issue of cyber bullying of Karnataka-based Rashmi Samant's resignation from the position of Oxford Student Union President in the United Kingdom and described it as a serious case of racism.

US-based company Twitter has been in the eye of a storm over its alleged failure to comply with the new IT rules in India, which mandates, among other requirements, the appointment of three key personnel -- chief compliance officer, nodal officer and grievance officer by social media platforms with over 50 lakh users.

All the three personnel have to be residents in India. While the rules came into effect on May 26, Twitter is yet to adhere to the social media guidelines, despite repeated reminders from the government.

(With inputs from agencies)

Indian Minister of Railways and Information Technology Ashwini Vaishnaw on Thursday sais that the law of the land is supreme and that Twitter will have to fall in line and comply with new social media and intermediary guidelines.

Indian Minister of Railways and Information Technology Ashwini Vaishnaw on Thursday sais that the law of the land is supreme and that Twitter will have to fall in line and comply with new social media and intermediary guidelines. “Whoever is a citizen of India and those who stay in India will have to abide by the laws of the country,” he said hours after taking over as the minister. The warning comes amid a tense relationship between Twitter and the government of India over new IT rules that make social media platforms more liable for third-party information; analysts believe this implies Twitter has lost legal immunity in cases involving user-generated content. Vaishnav, the MP from Odisha, on Wednesday took oath as the Cabinet Minister and was given the charge of Railways along with the Information and Technology Ministry. He said was thankful to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for giving him the responsibility. Assumed the charge of Minister of Communications at Sanchar Bhawan today. pic.twitter.com/BPQYyDxNVG — Ashwini Vaishnaw (@AshwiniVaishnaw) July 8, 2021 × He said his focus will be on improving the life of the last man standing in the queue. In past, Vaishnav, while speaking in the Rajya Sabha, had raised the issue of cyber bullying of Karnataka-based Rashmi Samant's resignation from the position of Oxford Student Union President in the United Kingdom and described it as a serious case of racism. US-based company Twitter has been in the eye of a storm over its alleged failure to comply with the new IT rules in India, which mandates, among other requirements, the appointment of three key personnel -- chief compliance officer, nodal officer and grievance officer by social media platforms with over 50 lakh users. All the three personnel have to be residents in India. While the rules came into effect on May 26, Twitter is yet to adhere to the social media guidelines, despite repeated reminders from the government. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw warns Twitter, says 'law of land supreme'

Twitter has informed the Delhi High Court that it has appointed an interim Chief Compliance Officer for India and will make other key appointments soon. Twitter further said that it needed eight weeks' time to appoint a grievance officer in India in compliance with the new IT rules.

Twitter appoints interim Chief Compliance Officer for India, yet to fill other posts

Oman on Thursday indefinitely suspended passengers flights from 24 countries, including India, Pakistan and Bangladesh, as part of the Gulf nation's efforts to arrest the spread of the coronavirus.

The flights have been suspended until further notice, the sultanate's official Twitter account for countering COVID-19 announced. The decision was taken as part of the country's measures to contain the coronavirus pandemic, it said.

The other countries on the list include the UK, Tunisia, Lebanon, Iran, Iraq, Libya, Brunei, Singapore, Indonesia, the Philippines, Ethiopia, Sudan, Tanzania, South Africa, Ghana, Sierra Leone, Nigeria, Guinea, Colombia, Argentina and Brazil.

The ban on arrivals from some of these countries has already been in place since April 24.

Oman on Wednesday reported 1,675 new cases of coronavirus, bringing the total number of infections in the country to 280,235.

The country has reported 3,356 coronavirus-related deaths so far.

Oman on Thursday indefinitely suspended passengers flights from 24 countries, including India, Pakistan and Bangladesh, as part of the Gulf nation's efforts to arrest the spread of the coronavirus.

Oman on Thursday indefinitely suspended passengers flights from 24 countries, including India, Pakistan and Bangladesh, as part of the Gulf nation's efforts to arrest the spread of the coronavirus. The flights have been suspended until further notice, the sultanate's official Twitter account for countering COVID-19 announced. The decision was taken as part of the country's measures to contain the coronavirus pandemic, it said. The other countries on the list include the UK, Tunisia, Lebanon, Iran, Iraq, Libya, Brunei, Singapore, Indonesia, the Philippines, Ethiopia, Sudan, Tanzania, South Africa, Ghana, Sierra Leone, Nigeria, Guinea, Colombia, Argentina and Brazil. The ban on arrivals from some of these countries has already been in place since April 24. Oman on Wednesday reported 1,675 new cases of coronavirus, bringing the total number of infections in the country to 280,235. The country has reported 3,356 coronavirus-related deaths so far.

COVID-19: Oman suspends flights from 24 countries, including India, Pakistan

NO2 (nitrogen dioxide) pollution has increased in all eight of India's most populated cities, according to Greenpeace India's satellite observation-based study.&nbsp;

This study was a direct comparison of NO2 levels of April 2020 and April 2021, thus juxtaposing the total lockdown month with a partial normalcy month. NO2 is a dangerous air pollutant that is released via vehicle emissions, power generation, and industrial processes.&nbsp;

The satellite observations of NO2 analyzed in this study are monthly averages of measurements made by the Tropomi sensor on board the Sentinel-5P satellite, which has been operating since February 2018 (Copernicus, 2018).

Their data claims that NO2 pollution in Chennai increased by 94% in a direct comparison between April 2020 and April 2021. The weather had only little contribution to this change.&nbsp;

Whereas, in Delhi, NO2 was higher by 125%, in Mumbai, 52% higher, Hyderabad by 69%, Bengaluru by 90%, Kolkata by 11%, Jaipur by 47% and Lucknow by 32% in April 2021, than in the same month of the previous year.

Specifically on North Chennai(Manali station), their data says that (in 2019) the region recorded unacceptable pollution levels for 119 days. It also states that while emissions from 38 red category industries including thermal power plants, petro-chemical industries, ports are the reason for North Chennai’s pollution, vehicular pollution contributes more to Central and South Chennai’s woes.

Prabhakaran Veeraarasu, Environmental Engineer, from the NGO Poovulagin Nanbargal said that Chennai’s data was a stark reminder to have a demographic, sectoral approach to address Chennai's pollution. “Shifting towards decentralised renewable energy, developing public transport infrastructure, encouraging non-motor transport and ensuring last mile connectivity can be our targets to reduce vehicular pollution in Chennai” he added. 
 
<img alt="satellite observations of NO2" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e4b99e13-65b3-4ece-8fc4-d8fb90d361b0" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/NO2%20levels%20graph.png" />

The report infers that India’s cities witnessing clean air in April 2020 (during the Lockdown) was an unintended consequence, that led to people breathing clean air and seeing clear skies. It suggests that the disruption caused by the pandemic is a case to transition to cleaner, equitable and sustainable decentralised energy sources such as rooftop solar and clean and sustainable mobility must be central to recovery efforts across cities. “The recovery from the pandemic must not come at the expense of a return to previous levels of air pollution,” said Avinash Chanchal, Senior Climate Campaigner, Greenpeace India.

He added that fossil-fuel dependent private vehicles and industries are the major contributors of NO2 pollution, thus urging Governments to initiate the transition from privately owned vehicles to an efficient, clean and safe public transport system that is run on clean energy, follows Covid-19 safety protocols.

NO2 (nitrogen dioxide) pollution has increased in all eight of India's most populated cities, according to Greenpeace India's satellite observation-based study. This study was a direct comparison of NO2 levels of April 2020 and April 2021, thus juxtaposing the total lockdown month with a partial normalcy month.

NO2 (nitrogen dioxide) pollution has increased in all eight of India's most populated cities, according to Greenpeace India's satellite observation-based study. This study was a direct comparison of NO2 levels of April 2020 and April 2021, thus juxtaposing the total lockdown month with a partial normalcy month. NO2 is a dangerous air pollutant that is released via vehicle emissions, power generation, and industrial processes. The satellite observations of NO2 analyzed in this study are monthly averages of measurements made by the Tropomi sensor on board the Sentinel-5P satellite, which has been operating since February 2018 (Copernicus, 2018). Their data claims that NO2 pollution in Chennai increased by 94% in a direct comparison between April 2020 and April 2021. The weather had only little contribution to this change. Whereas, in Delhi, NO2 was higher by 125%, in Mumbai, 52% higher, Hyderabad by 69%, Bengaluru by 90%, Kolkata by 11%, Jaipur by 47% and Lucknow by 32% in April 2021, than in the same month of the previous year. Specifically on North Chennai(Manali station), their data says that (in 2019) the region recorded unacceptable pollution levels for 119 days. It also states that while emissions from 38 red category industries including thermal power plants, petro-chemical industries, ports are the reason for North Chennai’s pollution, vehicular pollution contributes more to Central and South Chennai’s woes. Prabhakaran Veeraarasu, Environmental Engineer, from the NGO Poovulagin Nanbargal said that Chennai’s data was a stark reminder to have a demographic, sectoral approach to address Chennai's pollution. “Shifting towards decentralised renewable energy, developing public transport infrastructure, encouraging non-motor transport and ensuring last mile connectivity can be our targets to reduce vehicular pollution in Chennai” he added. The report infers that India’s cities witnessing clean air in April 2020 (during the Lockdown) was an unintended consequence, that led to people breathing clean air and seeing clear skies. It suggests that the disruption caused by the pandemic is a case to transition to cleaner, equitable and sustainable decentralised energy sources such as rooftop solar and clean and sustainable mobility must be central to recovery efforts across cities. “The recovery from the pandemic must not come at the expense of a return to previous levels of air pollution,” said Avinash Chanchal, Senior Climate Campaigner, Greenpeace India. He added that fossil-fuel dependent private vehicles and industries are the major contributors of NO2 pollution, thus urging Governments to initiate the transition from privately owned vehicles to an efficient, clean and safe public transport system that is run on clean energy, follows Covid-19 safety protocols.

Indian cities witnessed spike in NO2 pollution between April 2020 and 2021: Report

General&nbsp;Mir Asadullah Kohistani, the new commander of the Bagram airfield has said that his forces are getting ready for an offensive against the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/putin-dials-tajikistan-president-amid-talibans-rapid-advance-in-afghanistan-396250">Taliban</a>&nbsp;even as the militants make&nbsp;rapid advances in the country.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/consulates-remain-open-in-kandahar-mazar-says-india-as-taliban-makes-rapid-gains-in-afghanistan-396302">Also Read:&nbsp;Consulates remain open in Kandahar, Mazar, says India</a>

Speaking to our Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Asadullah spoke on Americans leaving Bagram without any information. He said, "We had done the initial plan and coordinated but on Friday morning, we heard that US troops had left Bagram. We were not aware about it."

Bagram airfield was the largest US&nbsp;military base in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/history-combatants-facts-and-timeline-us-led-military-intervention-in-afghanistan-396203">Afghanistan</a> and a symbol of American presence in the country.

WION: What is the current situation at the Bagram airfield?

General&nbsp;Mir Asadullah Kohistani: Right now, the situation is completely normal. All our troops are deployed inside and outside. Our patrol is going on, we don't have any problem so far.

WION: Americans never informed you&nbsp;that they are leaving?

Gen. Mir Asadullah Kohistani: We had done the initial plan and coordinated with them regarding deployment and safety and security out of Bagram.

We completed it on Thursday night&nbsp;but on Friday morning&nbsp;we heard that US troops had left Bagram. We were not aware about it. I think this is because of the phased departure they did not inform us for their safety&nbsp;and&nbsp;took their own security measures.

They did not inform us&nbsp;but the main point was everyone understood that all the Afghan National Army units were secure&nbsp;and there is no threat from outside or&nbsp;inside in Bagram.

WION: Have you reached out to the Americans on&nbsp;reasons why they left like this?

General&nbsp;Mir Asadullah Kohistani: The last contact with them was on Thursday night at 7:30 pm&nbsp;and after that contact&nbsp;point was cut off we didn't have&nbsp;any contact with them.

WION: What is the current situation related to advances by the Taliban? Will Kabul fall?

General&nbsp;Mir Asadullah Kohistani: Everybody knows&nbsp;we are involved in four&nbsp;decades of war. We fully understand we will take back all the area which is economically&nbsp;and strategically important.

The Afghan Army is a responsible force and is getting ready for offensive operation and as soon as possible we will start our offensive&nbsp;operation to change the situation.

General Mir Asadullah Kohistani, the new commander of the Bagram airfield has said that his forces are getting ready for an offensive against the Taliban even as the militants make rapid advances in the country.

General Mir Asadullah Kohistani, the new commander of the Bagram airfield has said that his forces are getting ready for an offensive against the Taliban even as the militants make rapid advances in the country. Also Read: Consulates remain open in Kandahar, Mazar, says India Speaking to our Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Asadullah spoke on Americans leaving Bagram without any information. He said, "We had done the initial plan and coordinated but on Friday morning, we heard that US troops had left Bagram. We were not aware about it." Bagram airfield was the largest US military base in Afghanistan and a symbol of American presence in the country. WION: What is the current situation at the Bagram airfield? General Mir Asadullah Kohistani: Right now, the situation is completely normal. All our troops are deployed inside and outside. Our patrol is going on, we don't have any problem so far. WION: Americans never informed you that they are leaving? Gen. Mir Asadullah Kohistani: We had done the initial plan and coordinated with them regarding deployment and safety and security out of Bagram. We completed it on Thursday night but on Friday morning we heard that US troops had left Bagram. We were not aware about it. I think this is because of the phased departure they did not inform us for their safety and took their own security measures. They did not inform us but the main point was everyone understood that all the Afghan National Army units were secure and there is no threat from outside or inside in Bagram. WION: Have you reached out to the Americans on reasons why they left like this? General Mir Asadullah Kohistani: The last contact with them was on Thursday night at 7:30 pm and after that contact point was cut off we didn't have any contact with them. WION: What is the current situation related to advances by the Taliban? Will Kabul fall? General Mir Asadullah Kohistani: Everybody knows we are involved in four decades of war. We fully understand we will take back all the area which is economically and strategically important. The Afghan Army is a responsible force and is getting ready for offensive operation and as soon as possible we will start our offensive operation to change the situation.

Exclusive: Getting ready for offensive against Taliban, says General Asadullah, Bagram airfield's new commander

The Delhi High Court on Tuesday slammed Twitter for inordinate delay in making key appointments in compliance with the country’s new digital laws. The high court also directed Twitter to explain why no new India-based grievance officer has been appointed after the resignation of Dharmendra Chatur on June 21.

How long does your process take?: Delhi HC slams Twitter for delay in key appointments

India's external affairs ministry has seen a major expansion in the cabinet reshuffle which took place on&nbsp;Wednesday. The ministry led by cabinet minister Dr. S Jaishankar now has three&nbsp;ministers of state.

In the biggest cabinet reshuffle since 2014, it got two&nbsp;new ministers of state - Meenakshi Lekhi and Rajkumar Ranjan Singh. The ministry already has one minister of state - V Muraleedharan. Lekhi will also be a minister of state in the ministry of culture, while RR Singh will have the additional responsibility of MoS in the ministry of education.

Meenakshi Lekhi is MP from high profile New Delhi Lok Sabha constituency and is a lawyer by profession. Rajkumar Ranjan Singh represents the inner Manipur constituency of Manipur state.

MP Lekhi in the past had attended the Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen's swearing-in ceremony. In 2019&nbsp;she represented India at the Asian Parliamentary Assembly meet in Antalya, Turkey&nbsp;and had hit out at Pakistan after it raked the Kashmir issue.

Wednesday's cabinet reshuffle saw 12 ministers resigning including heavyweights Prakash Javadekar who was the information and broadcasting minister along with Ravi Shankar Prasad who was the law and information technology minister&nbsp;and Dr Harsh Vardhan who was the health minister.

Several new faces were inducted into the Union Cabinet. The new cabinet has 12 SC ministers, 8 ST ministers, 27 OBC, five&nbsp;from the minority communities and&nbsp;eleven&nbsp;women ministers.

&nbsp;

India's external affairs ministry has seen a major expansion in the cabinet reshuffle which took place on Wednesday. The ministry led by cabinet minister Dr. S Jaishankar now has three ministers of state.

India's external affairs ministry has seen a major expansion in the cabinet reshuffle which took place on Wednesday. The ministry led by cabinet minister Dr. S Jaishankar now has three ministers of state. In the biggest cabinet reshuffle since 2014, it got two new ministers of state - Meenakshi Lekhi and Rajkumar Ranjan Singh. The ministry already has one minister of state - V Muraleedharan. Lekhi will also be a minister of state in the ministry of culture, while RR Singh will have the additional responsibility of MoS in the ministry of education. Meenakshi Lekhi is MP from high profile New Delhi Lok Sabha constituency and is a lawyer by profession. Rajkumar Ranjan Singh represents the inner Manipur constituency of Manipur state. MP Lekhi in the past had attended the Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen's swearing-in ceremony. In 2019 she represented India at the Asian Parliamentary Assembly meet in Antalya, Turkey and had hit out at Pakistan after it raked the Kashmir issue. Wednesday's cabinet reshuffle saw 12 ministers resigning including heavyweights Prakash Javadekar who was the information and broadcasting minister along with Ravi Shankar Prasad who was the law and information technology minister and Dr Harsh Vardhan who was the health minister. Several new faces were inducted into the Union Cabinet. The new cabinet has 12 SC ministers, 8 ST ministers, 27 OBC, five from the minority communities and eleven women ministers.

India's foreign ministry sees major expansion in cabinet reshuffle

India's legendary actor Dilip Kumar, who was popularly known as the 'tragedy king' of Bollywood, passed away on Wednesday at the age of 98. The actor had been witnessing age-related health issues.

Legendary Bollywood actor Dilip Kumar passes away at 98

Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama has thanked&nbsp;Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for wishing him on his birthday.

Lama posted a&nbsp;video message in which he expressed his gratitude towards everyone wished him saying&nbsp;"Many of my friends expressed&nbsp;happy birthday. Here I want to take this opportunity to express to those people, my thanks."

"I want to thank my long time supporters and friends, and then many other people including Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and many ministers and also chief ministers and a number of my Indian friends," he added.

Dalai Lama who had to left Tibet after the Chinese occupation in the 1950s said, "They sincerely expressed their&nbsp;congratulations&nbsp;on my birthday. So I very much appreciate this friendly expression."

On Tuesday, in a departure from the past, India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama on his 86th birthday. &nbsp;In a tweet from his handle, he said, "Spoke on phone to His Holiness the @DalaiLama to convey greetings on his 86th birthday" and "We wish him a long and healthy life."&nbsp;

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Spoke on phone to His Holiness the <a href="https://twitter.com/DalaiLama?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DalaiLama</a> to convey greetings on his 86th birthday. We wish him a long and healthy life.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1412310494870913032?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 6, 2021</a></blockquote>
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While in the past Indian PM Modi has been congratulating Dalai Lama on his birthday, but never an announcement has been made, largely due to Chinese sensitivities. The announcement is seen as a message to Beijing even as China continues with provocative behavior at the Line of actual control in Ladakh.

Other political leaders in India have also wished Dalai Lama on his birthday. These are Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, Pema Khandu, Chief Minister of Delhi Arvind Kejriwal, from the Indian Cabinet-- Road transport minister Nitin Gadkari, Aviation minister Hardeep Singh Puri.

Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama has thanked Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for wishing him on his birthday. Lama posted a video message in which he expressed his gratitude towards everyone wished him saying "Many of my friends expressed happy birthday.

Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama has thanked Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for wishing him on his birthday. Lama posted a video message in which he expressed his gratitude towards everyone wished him saying "Many of my friends expressed happy birthday. Here I want to take this opportunity to express to those people, my thanks." "I want to thank my long time supporters and friends, and then many other people including Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and many ministers and also chief ministers and a number of my Indian friends," he added. Dalai Lama who had to left Tibet after the Chinese occupation in the 1950s said, "They sincerely expressed their congratulations on my birthday. So I very much appreciate this friendly expression." On Tuesday, in a departure from the past, India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama on his 86th birthday. In a tweet from his handle, he said, "Spoke on phone to His Holiness the @DalaiLama to convey greetings on his 86th birthday" and "We wish him a long and healthy life." Spoke on phone to His Holiness the @DalaiLama to convey greetings on his 86th birthday. We wish him a long and healthy life. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 6, 2021 × While in the past Indian PM Modi has been congratulating Dalai Lama on his birthday, but never an announcement has been made, largely due to Chinese sensitivities. The announcement is seen as a message to Beijing even as China continues with provocative behavior at the Line of actual control in Ladakh. Other political leaders in India have also wished Dalai Lama on his birthday. These are Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, Pema Khandu, Chief Minister of Delhi Arvind Kejriwal, from the Indian Cabinet-- Road transport minister Nitin Gadkari, Aviation minister Hardeep Singh Puri.

Dalai Lama thanks Indian PM Modi for birthday wishes

The Indian Embassy in Kabul described reports stating that India is closing its diplomatic mission in Afghanistan in view of escalating violence as incorrect. They added that they are closely monitoring the evolving security situation.

Indian Embassy describes reports saying India closing its mission in Afghanistan as false

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