US Midterms 2026: Pooja Sethi defeats bigotry, makes history as first Hindu, Indian-American woman elected to Texas Legislature

Florida shooting: Two dead, including suspect, after gunfire at Citibank's Tampa-area complex

Virat Kohli turns 38: 5 records that define his cricketing legacy

Watch: Ilhan Omar breaks into a dance after securing fifth-term victory amid long-running Trump feud

"That run-out by Rohit changed the momentum": Gill reflects on India's 5-wicket win in 1st ODI vs NZ

US Midterms 2026: Abdul El-Sayed wins Michigan race, becomes first Muslim American to be elected to US Senate

Mahadev app co-founder Ravi Uppal arrested in Dubai days after kingpin Sourabh Chandrakar’s extradition

Doomsday warning? Why governments are warning people to stockpile emergency supplies for 72 hours

Saudi Arabia rolls over $3 billion financing to Pakistan as $10 billion US backstop fades

First handshake? Radio signal with all hallmarks of alien technology detected in China

Houthis put a price on peace with Saudi: $51 billion and recognition as Yemen's rulers - Report

Indian Army marks Battle of Shalateng Day with veterans’ rally, educational outreach at Sharifabad

Chandigarh couple at centre of fresh US sanctions over helping Iran evade oil sanctions

‘Dialled wrong number in season of dharna, go protest’: CJI’s quip on plea seeking rotation of SC-ST reserved seats

US midterms: What went wrong for Trump? | Gravitas

Ramayana Part 1 X reviews: Netizens hail Ranbir Kapoor-Yash's mythological epic, call it a 'monumental cinematic masterpiece'

'I am more Indian than Arab': Abdul El-Sayed on his Indian-origin wife

Ramayana: Part 1 movie review: Yash’s powerhouse performance and jaw-dropping VFX fuel Nitesh Tiwari's epic

From Texas to South Carolina: How Democrats stormed Republican strongholds to redraw America's political map in US midterms 2026

Trump's 'best guy' Pete Hegseth on the chopping block? Why Republicans are now turning against him after midterms disaster

Dirty war ahead? Trump has options of renewed strikes on Iran or letting it rot, but officials are divided after US midterms rout

‘Iran handed Trump political defeat after strategic ones,’ says security chief Mohsen Rezaei

US midterms: Did Trump lose young voters, women and minorities? Here's how Americans voted

After Microsoft, Google expands voluntary exit programme to employees in 5 countries amid AI spending

Ashwin shares reasons for Bhuvneshwar's struggle in NZ T20Is, says his 'chapter is maybe closed'

Nithya Raman wins LA mayoral race, becomes city's first Asian-American mayor

Who is Abdul El-Sayed’s wife Sarah Jukaku and what is her Indian connection?

‘You can call me Senator’: From Texas To Maine, watch Democrats celebrate historic 2026 midterm wins

Kashmir Valley likely to receive fresh spell of snowfall today; dry weather forecast till November 9

'Habibi, there's a delicious irony': What the word Abdul El-Sayed used on JD Vance actually means | US Midterms 2026

Ueno Bank crisis: Why are millions protesting as Paraguay’s president faces impeachment?

Keran Heritage Centre to give new impetus to border tourism in North Kashmir

Israel's Ra'am party backs Gadi Eisenkot to lead next government after meeting with Herzog

"Mehul Choksi is an Indian citizen and his application for renunciation of Indian citizenship was rejected. He is erroneously claiming renunciation of the Indian Citizenship under the Citizenship Act, 1955," the affidavit said.

Mehul Choksi's claim of renouncing Indian citizenship bogus: India

India, in an affidavit filled in Dominica Court, has said that fugitive businessman&nbsp;Mehul Choksi is "still" an Indian citizen and has opposed his bail.

The affidavit details how Choksi's "declaration of renunciation" of Indian citizenship was not accepted by the Indian government and "citizenship of Mehul Choksi may be decided as Indian".

In the affidavit filed on June 8 at the high court of justice, Dominica said, "The Indian citizenship of Mr MC has still not ceased as on date and therefore, his claim of renunciation of Indian citizenship is contrary to the laws in India as is completely erroneous", adding, "the claim of Mr MC being bogus, this Honourable court may kindly reject the said erroneous claim at the threshold".

The document, seen by WION, pointed out that Choksi had submitted his Indian passport to Indian High Commission in Georgetown, Guyana for renouncing his Indian citizenship on December 14, 2018.&nbsp;

Under Section 8 of the Indian citizenship act, 1955, the declaration of renunciation should be registered and only then "a person shall cease to be a citizen of India". Read with Rule 38 of the act, the declaration of registration has to be made to India's ministry of home affairs through the Indian mission.&nbsp;

While he did submit his passport, the Indian home ministry on January 29, 2019 "found deficiencies in the declaration and also "noted that Mr MC was an economic fugitive offender", advising Indian mission in Guyana to "consider rejection of his declaration of renunciation".

Ministry of external affairs also in a letter dated&nbsp;October 15, 2019, confirmed that his application of&nbsp;renunciation stood rejected by the Indian High Commission in Guyana and had communicated him on March 15, 2019.

The affidavit stated,"no entries regarding the application for surrender of Indian nationality were made in the consular register of the mission". This was further confirmed by MHA in its official memorandum on May 31, 2021.

His Indian passport, number Z3396732 was issued on&nbsp;September 10, 2015 from Mumbai. He acquired his Antigua and Barbuda nationality on&nbsp;November 16, 2017 with passport number AB007713.&nbsp;The Indian side in the affidavit also said that "concerned authorities may be directed to immediately transfer/deport/handover Mr Mehul Choksi to the Indian&nbsp;authorities".

India, in an affidavit filled in Dominica Court, has said that fugitive businessman Mehul Choksi is "still" an Indian citizen and has opposed his bail. The affidavit details how Choksi's "declaration of renunciation" of Indian citizenship was not accepted by the Indian government and "citizenship of Mehul Choksi may be decided as Indian".

India, in an affidavit filled in Dominica Court, has said that fugitive businessman Mehul Choksi is "still" an Indian citizen and has opposed his bail. The affidavit details how Choksi's "declaration of renunciation" of Indian citizenship was not accepted by the Indian government and "citizenship of Mehul Choksi may be decided as Indian". In the affidavit filed on June 8 at the high court of justice, Dominica said, "The Indian citizenship of Mr MC has still not ceased as on date and therefore, his claim of renunciation of Indian citizenship is contrary to the laws in India as is completely erroneous", adding, "the claim of Mr MC being bogus, this Honourable court may kindly reject the said erroneous claim at the threshold". The document, seen by WION, pointed out that Choksi had submitted his Indian passport to Indian High Commission in Georgetown, Guyana for renouncing his Indian citizenship on December 14, 2018. Under Section 8 of the Indian citizenship act, 1955, the declaration of renunciation should be registered and only then "a person shall cease to be a citizen of India". Read with Rule 38 of the act, the declaration of registration has to be made to India's ministry of home affairs through the Indian mission. While he did submit his passport, the Indian home ministry on January 29, 2019 "found deficiencies in the declaration and also "noted that Mr MC was an economic fugitive offender", advising Indian mission in Guyana to "consider rejection of his declaration of renunciation". Ministry of external affairs also in a letter dated October 15, 2019, confirmed that his application of renunciation stood rejected by the Indian High Commission in Guyana and had communicated him on March 15, 2019. The affidavit stated,"no entries regarding the application for surrender of Indian nationality were made in the consular register of the mission". This was further confirmed by MHA in its official memorandum on May 31, 2021. His Indian passport, number Z3396732 was issued on September 10, 2015 from Mumbai. He acquired his Antigua and Barbuda nationality on November 16, 2017 with passport number AB007713. The Indian side in the affidavit also said that "concerned authorities may be directed to immediately transfer/deport/handover Mr Mehul Choksi to the Indian authorities".

Mehul Choksi is still an Indian citizen, India tells Dominica court

A 76-year-old sect leader with 39 wives and 127 children and grandchildren has died in the northeast Indian state of Mizoram on Sunday.

Zionnghaka Chana lived in a remote area of the state and held the record of one of the world’s largest families.

The village Chana lived in had gained popularity due to his family, which had become a favourite tourist story. "Mizoram and his village at Baktawng Tlangnuam has become a major tourist attraction in the state because of the family,"&nbsp;Mizoram Chief Minister Zoramthanga tweeted on Sunday night.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
With heavy heart, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Mizoram?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Mizoram</a> bid farewell to Mr. Zion-a (76), believed to head the world's largest family, with 38 wives and 89 children. 
Mizoram and his village at Baktawng Tlangnuam has become a major tourist attraction in the state because of the family. 
Rest in Peace Sir! <a href="https://t.co/V1cHmRAOkr">pic.twitter.com/V1cHmRAOkr</a>
— Zoramthanga (@ZoramthangaCM) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZoramthangaCM/status/1404040324251488258?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Chana suffered from diabetes and hypertension and was admitted to a local hospital when his health worsened, where he took his last breath.

He was the leader of a sect that was founded by his grandfather in the 1930s with nearly 1,700 members. The Chana family&nbsp;mainly carve&nbsp;wooden furniture and deal in making pottery items, while being the main part of this sect.

A 76-year-old sect leader with 39 wives and 127 children and grandchildren has died in the northeast Indian state of Mizoram on Sunday. Zionnghaka Chana lived in a remote area of the state and held the record of one of the world’s largest families.

A 76-year-old sect leader with 39 wives and 127 children and grandchildren has died in the northeast Indian state of Mizoram on Sunday. Zionnghaka Chana lived in a remote area of the state and held the record of one of the world’s largest families. The village Chana lived in had gained popularity due to his family, which had become a favourite tourist story. "Mizoram and his village at Baktawng Tlangnuam has become a major tourist attraction in the state because of the family," Mizoram Chief Minister Zoramthanga tweeted on Sunday night. With heavy heart, #Mizoram bid farewell to Mr. Zion-a (76), believed to head the world's largest family, with 38 wives and 89 children. Mizoram and his village at Baktawng Tlangnuam has become a major tourist attraction in the state because of the family. Rest in Peace Sir! pic.twitter.com/V1cHmRAOkr — Zoramthanga (@ZoramthangaCM) June 13, 2021 × Chana suffered from diabetes and hypertension and was admitted to a local hospital when his health worsened, where he took his last breath. He was the leader of a sect that was founded by his grandfather in the 1930s with nearly 1,700 members. The Chana family mainly carve wooden furniture and deal in making pottery items, while being the main part of this sect.

Man with 39 wives and 127 children dies in India due to hypertension

According to the &nbsp;Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), the Taj Mahal will reopen from June 16, including several other monuments and museums which were closed after the second wave of coronavirus in the country.

The number of coronavirus cases has been going down steadily for the past fortnight with the country recording 70,421 new COVID-19 infections which was the lowest since March 31, according to the health ministry.

However, the number of daily deaths increased to 3,921.

ASI informed that that visitors need to book online tickets to enter the monuments. Union Culture and Tourism minister Prahlad Patel in a tweet said that the culture ministry had given the approval for monuments to reopen.

On April 15, the ASI had shut all monuments till May 31. Last year as the government imposed a lockdown, all monuments were closed in March and then reopened in July with strict coronavirus guidelines.

Authorities said social distancing among the visitors will be maintained when&nbsp;the monuments are reopened on Wednesday&nbsp;and sanitisation of the monuments premises will also be carried out thrice a day.

Tourists will not be allowed to touch any object inside the Taj Mahal, the authorities said.

Several states have announced a gradual easing of lockdown imposed last month amid the second wave. &nbsp;Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan said on Monday that lockdown strategy will change after June 16 with region-wise restrictions to be lifted.

However, the West Bengal government extended the coronavirus restrictions till July 1 in view of the COVID-19&nbsp;cases in the state.

Delhi reported just 131 new coronavirus cases with positivity rate of 0.22 per cent and 16 deaths in the last 24 hours as the AAP government lifted several restrictions imposed last month during the lockdown.

According to the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), the Taj Mahal will reopen from June 16, including several other monuments and museums which were closed after the second wave of coronavirus in the country.

According to the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), the Taj Mahal will reopen from June 16, including several other monuments and museums which were closed after the second wave of coronavirus in the country. The number of coronavirus cases has been going down steadily for the past fortnight with the country recording 70,421 new COVID-19 infections which was the lowest since March 31, according to the health ministry. However, the number of daily deaths increased to 3,921. ASI informed that that visitors need to book online tickets to enter the monuments. Union Culture and Tourism minister Prahlad Patel in a tweet said that the culture ministry had given the approval for monuments to reopen. On April 15, the ASI had shut all monuments till May 31. Last year as the government imposed a lockdown, all monuments were closed in March and then reopened in July with strict coronavirus guidelines. Authorities said social distancing among the visitors will be maintained when the monuments are reopened on Wednesday and sanitisation of the monuments premises will also be carried out thrice a day. Tourists will not be allowed to touch any object inside the Taj Mahal, the authorities said. Several states have announced a gradual easing of lockdown imposed last month amid the second wave. Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan said on Monday that lockdown strategy will change after June 16 with region-wise restrictions to be lifted. However, the West Bengal government extended the coronavirus restrictions till July 1 in view of the COVID-19 cases in the state. Delhi reported just 131 new coronavirus cases with positivity rate of 0.22 per cent and 16 deaths in the last 24 hours as the AAP government lifted several restrictions imposed last month during the lockdown.

Taj Mahal to reopen from June 16, visitors to book tickets online

This week, a remembrance ceremony will take place in honour of Galwan Bravehearts with the officiating commander of the Leh-based Fire and Fury Corps laying a wreath at Leh Memorial.

The officiating commander will be the senior-most Indian Army officer at Leh. India lost 20 of its troops in Galwan, Ladakh, due to aggressive actions by the Chinese side on the&nbsp;intervening night of June 15-16 2020.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/eam-jaishankar-to-visit-italy-for-for-g20s-fm-meet-391347">EAM Jaishankar to visit Italy for for G20s FM meet</a>

This was the worst ever loss of life at the Line of Actual Control (LAC) between India and China in the last 45 years. The development came after the Chinese buildup in the area that started in April 2020. February saw a positive development, with disengagement at Pangong lake,&nbsp;but disengagement in areas such as Gogra, Hot springs, and Depsang plans is still to happen.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/at-g7-pm-modi-highlights-indias-civilisational-commitment-to-democracy-391208" hreflang="en">At G7, PM Modi highlights India's civilisational commitment to democracy</a>

Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Arindam Bagchi last week said, "We have repeatedly stressed that completion of disengagement in other areas would pave the way for the two sides to consider de-escalation of forces and ensure full restoration of peace and tranquility and enable progress in bilateral relations."

Both sides continue to hold talks with each other but the situation remains precarious. March 12 saw a diplomatic round of talks — Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination (WMCC), followed by the 11th India-China Corps Commander Level Meeting that took place on April 09.

This week, a remembrance ceremony will take place in honour of Galwan Bravehearts with the officiating commander of the Leh-based Fire and Fury Corps laying a wreath at Leh Memorial.

This week, a remembrance ceremony will take place in honour of Galwan Bravehearts with the officiating commander of the Leh-based Fire and Fury Corps laying a wreath at Leh Memorial. The officiating commander will be the senior-most Indian Army officer at Leh. India lost 20 of its troops in Galwan, Ladakh, due to aggressive actions by the Chinese side on the intervening night of June 15-16 2020. Also read | EAM Jaishankar to visit Italy for for G20s FM meet This was the worst ever loss of life at the Line of Actual Control (LAC) between India and China in the last 45 years. The development came after the Chinese buildup in the area that started in April 2020. February saw a positive development, with disengagement at Pangong lake, but disengagement in areas such as Gogra, Hot springs, and Depsang plans is still to happen. Also read | At G7, PM Modi highlights India's civilisational commitment to democracy Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Arindam Bagchi last week said, "We have repeatedly stressed that completion of disengagement in other areas would pave the way for the two sides to consider de-escalation of forces and ensure full restoration of peace and tranquility and enable progress in bilateral relations." Both sides continue to hold talks with each other but the situation remains precarious. March 12 saw a diplomatic round of talks — Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination (WMCC), followed by the 11th India-China Corps Commander Level Meeting that took place on April 09.

India-China border standoff: Galwan anniversary remembrance in Leh this week

Something that can perhaps happen in a comedy movie has become a grim reality for people living on the outskirts of Ranchi, capital of the Indian state of Jharkhand.

When situation becomes so bad that one who is potentially getting burgled has to put up a note for burglars to help them save efforts, it can surely be said that there's no law and order.

The residents are actually pasting notes on their houses that say "theft has already taken place in this house. Do not waste your effort". Residents in Pundag locality of Ranchi have had to resort to this.

The residents have told the media that in spite of police complaints, nothing has been done. Burglars continue to be a menace.

"A theft took place twice in a month in my house. The thieves took away jewellery worth Rs 1.5 lakh during the second theft," said Rekha Devi, a resident of Bhagwati Nagar in Pundag locality of Ranchi.

Manoj Kumar, another resident of Bhagwati Nagar, said, "On Saturday my family had gone to our in-laws house. We stayed there at night. On Sunday morning our neighbours informed us about a theft in our house. We reached home and found that the thieves had decamped with Rs two lakh cash and jewellery worth Rs one lakh."

Thefts took place in more than six houses at Bhagwati Nagar on Saturday and the thieves took away jewellery worth more than Rs eight lakh.

"Our house has been burgled twice. We have been forced to write slogans to ward off thieves as nothing is left in our house," said Sanjeev Khanna, another resident of Bhagwati Nagar.

Something that can perhaps happen in a comedy movie has become a grim reality for people living on the outskirts of Ranchi, capital of the Indian state of Jharkhand.

Something that can perhaps happen in a comedy movie has become a grim reality for people living on the outskirts of Ranchi, capital of the Indian state of Jharkhand. When situation becomes so bad that one who is potentially getting burgled has to put up a note for burglars to help them save efforts, it can surely be said that there's no law and order. The residents are actually pasting notes on their houses that say "theft has already taken place in this house. Do not waste your effort". Residents in Pundag locality of Ranchi have had to resort to this. The residents have told the media that in spite of police complaints, nothing has been done. Burglars continue to be a menace. "A theft took place twice in a month in my house. The thieves took away jewellery worth Rs 1.5 lakh during the second theft," said Rekha Devi, a resident of Bhagwati Nagar in Pundag locality of Ranchi. Manoj Kumar, another resident of Bhagwati Nagar, said, "On Saturday my family had gone to our in-laws house. We stayed there at night. On Sunday morning our neighbours informed us about a theft in our house. We reached home and found that the thieves had decamped with Rs two lakh cash and jewellery worth Rs one lakh." Thefts took place in more than six houses at Bhagwati Nagar on Saturday and the thieves took away jewellery worth more than Rs eight lakh. "Our house has been burgled twice. We have been forced to write slogans to ward off thieves as nothing is left in our house," said Sanjeev Khanna, another resident of Bhagwati Nagar.

Already burgled: Residents in Indian city paste notes to avoid more thefts in house

India has extended its support to Kenya's domestic programmes listed under the "Big Four Agenda" during the visit of External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar even as both sides discussed Indo-Pacific.

The Big Four priorities of Kenya includes&nbsp;manufacturing, affordable housing, universal health and food security, and&nbsp;are key projects led by President Uhuru Kenyatta.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Thank President Kenyatta for receiving me so warmly. Handed over a letter from PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a>. 
 
Our partnership is an example of South-South cooperation. Committed to working with Kenya to realise its Big Four priorities. <a href="https://t.co/0V0uKJv5mO">pic.twitter.com/0V0uKJv5mO</a>
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1404454098770874377?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 14, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

India will be supporting projects in Kenya that call for creating 500,000 new affordable homes, scaling up universal health coverage, 100 per cent&nbsp;food security, and enhancing the country's manufacturing to 20 per cent&nbsp;of GDP by 2022.

The joint statement said, "India will further build upon its partnership" vis-a-vis the programmes and also when it comes to development partnership in various fields in a whole host of sectors.&nbsp;India has been offering 400 scholarships to Kenyans annually as part of its development partnership and capacity building projects.

What stood out was the use of "Indo-Pacific" term in the joint statement, a term which is increasingly being used and this time by an African country.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The joint statement said, "the two sides held extensive exchanges on global and regional issues including the security situation in the Indo-Pacific region and the Horn of Africa."

Indo-Pacific is geographically seen&nbsp;as a region spanning from the east coast of&nbsp;Africa&nbsp;to the&nbsp;Pacific&nbsp;island states, a region that is the main driver of global economic growth.

On counter-terror, the statement said both sides&nbsp;"expressed their concern at the growing radicalisation and the increase in international terrorism and violent extremism in parts of Africa and Asia".

It highlighted,"As maritime neighbours, India and Kenya recognised the importance of ensuring through shared endeavours greater security, safety and prosperity of the Indian Ocean region. They also noted that terrorism in all its forms and manifestations are a common threat to humanity."

Earlier in the day, EAM participated in the inauguration of the newly renovated Mahatma Gandhi memorial Library at the University of Nairobi. The renovation was undertaken through financial support provided by the Indian government.

Calling the "rise of modern Africa is not just a noble sentiment" but a "long-awaited expectation", EAM at the university said, "It is only when this continent of more than a billion people takes its rightful place that the full diversity of our planet will find proper expression. It is then that we can justifiably declare that the world is truly multipolar."

India has multiple times extended its support for an African seat at the United Nations Security Council. Currently, both India and Kenya are non-permanent members of the UNSC.&nbsp;

This was the first in-person visit of EAM to an African country amid the Covid pandemic. During the visit, he called on President Kenyatta and held talks with his counterpart, foreign minister Raychelle Omamo.

India has extended its support to Kenya's domestic programmes listed under the "Big Four Agenda" during the visit of External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar even as both sides discussed Indo-Pacific.

India has extended its support to Kenya's domestic programmes listed under the "Big Four Agenda" during the visit of External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar even as both sides discussed Indo-Pacific. The Big Four priorities of Kenya includes manufacturing, affordable housing, universal health and food security, and are key projects led by President Uhuru Kenyatta. Thank President Kenyatta for receiving me so warmly. Handed over a letter from PM @narendramodi. Our partnership is an example of South-South cooperation. Committed to working with Kenya to realise its Big Four priorities. pic.twitter.com/0V0uKJv5mO — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) June 14, 2021 × India will be supporting projects in Kenya that call for creating 500,000 new affordable homes, scaling up universal health coverage, 100 per cent food security, and enhancing the country's manufacturing to 20 per cent of GDP by 2022. The joint statement said, "India will further build upon its partnership" vis-a-vis the programmes and also when it comes to development partnership in various fields in a whole host of sectors. India has been offering 400 scholarships to Kenyans annually as part of its development partnership and capacity building projects. What stood out was the use of "Indo-Pacific" term in the joint statement, a term which is increasingly being used and this time by an African country. The joint statement said, "the two sides held extensive exchanges on global and regional issues including the security situation in the Indo-Pacific region and the Horn of Africa." Indo-Pacific is geographically seen as a region spanning from the east coast of Africa to the Pacific island states, a region that is the main driver of global economic growth. On counter-terror, the statement said both sides "expressed their concern at the growing radicalisation and the increase in international terrorism and violent extremism in parts of Africa and Asia". It highlighted,"As maritime neighbours, India and Kenya recognised the importance of ensuring through shared endeavours greater security, safety and prosperity of the Indian Ocean region. They also noted that terrorism in all its forms and manifestations are a common threat to humanity." Earlier in the day, EAM participated in the inauguration of the newly renovated Mahatma Gandhi memorial Library at the University of Nairobi. The renovation was undertaken through financial support provided by the Indian government. Calling the "rise of modern Africa is not just a noble sentiment" but a "long-awaited expectation", EAM at the university said, "It is only when this continent of more than a billion people takes its rightful place that the full diversity of our planet will find proper expression. It is then that we can justifiably declare that the world is truly multipolar." India has multiple times extended its support for an African seat at the United Nations Security Council. Currently, both India and Kenya are non-permanent members of the UNSC. This was the first in-person visit of EAM to an African country amid the Covid pandemic. During the visit, he called on President Kenyatta and held talks with his counterpart, foreign minister Raychelle Omamo.

Jaishankar's Kenya visit: India extends support to domestic programmes; discuss Indo-Pacific

Oxygen Express trains have crossed the milestone of delivering 30,000 tonnes of liquid medical oxygen across the country, the railways said on Sunday.

The service was started in the wake of a severe second Covid wave and these trains had started deliveries on April 24 in Maharashtra with a load of 126 tonnes.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/11-oxygen-plants-soon-to-come-up-in-gurugram-386750">11 oxygen plants soon to come up in Gurugram</a>

So far, the Indian Railways has delivered nearly 30,182 tonnes of liquid medical oxygen (LMO) in more than 1,734 tankers to various states, the national transporter said.

While 421 Oxygen Express trains have completed their journey so far and brought relief to various states, two loaded trains with more than 177 tonnes of LMO in 10 tankers are on their way to their destinations, the railways said in a statement.

Oxygen Express trains have delivered more than 15,000 tonnes of LMO to southern states of the country, it said. 
These trains have delivered more than 3,600, 3,700 and 4,900 tonnes of LMO in Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu respectively.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/daily-covid-19-count-in-india-remains-below-100000-mark-391132">Daily COVID-19 count in India remains below 1,00,000 mark</a>

The service has reached out to 15 states and union territories - Uttarakhand, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Haryana, Telangana, Punjab, Kerala, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand and Assam.

Till now, 614 tonnes of LMO has been offloaded in Maharashtra, nearly 3,797 tonnes in Uttar Pradesh, 656 tonnes in Madhya Pradesh, 5,722 tonnes in Delhi, 2,354 tonnes in Haryana, 98 tonnes in Rajasthan, and 3,782 tonnes in Karnataka, the statement said.

So far, 320 tonnes of LMO has been offloaded in Uttarakhand, 4,941 tonnes in Tamil Nadu, 3,664 tonnes in Andhra Pradesh, 225 tonnes in Punjab, 513 tonnes in Kerala, 2,972 tonnes in Telangana, 38 tonnes in Jharkhand and 480 tonnes in Assam, it said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-to-donate-10-litre-2000-oxygen-concentrators-to-help-indias-battle-against-covid-19-387054">BCCI to donate 10-litre 2000 oxygen concentrators to help India's battle against COVID-19</a>

Oxygen Express trains have offloaded LMO in around 39 cities or towns in 15 states.

Crisscrossing the country, Indian Railways is picking up oxygen from places like Hapa, Baroda, Mundra in the West and Rourkela, Durgapur, Tatanagar, Angul in the East and then delivering it to States of Uttarakhand, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Haryana, Telangana, Punjab, Kerala, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh &amp; Assam in complex operational route planning scenarios.&nbsp;

Oxygen Express trains have crossed the milestone of delivering 30,000 tonnes of liquid medical oxygen across the country, the railways said on Sunday. The service was started in the wake of a severe second Covid wave and these trains had started deliveries on April 24 in Maharashtra with a load of 126 tonnes.

Oxygen Express trains have crossed the milestone of delivering 30,000 tonnes of liquid medical oxygen across the country, the railways said on Sunday. The service was started in the wake of a severe second Covid wave and these trains had started deliveries on April 24 in Maharashtra with a load of 126 tonnes. Also read | 11 oxygen plants soon to come up in Gurugram So far, the Indian Railways has delivered nearly 30,182 tonnes of liquid medical oxygen (LMO) in more than 1,734 tankers to various states, the national transporter said. While 421 Oxygen Express trains have completed their journey so far and brought relief to various states, two loaded trains with more than 177 tonnes of LMO in 10 tankers are on their way to their destinations, the railways said in a statement. Oxygen Express trains have delivered more than 15,000 tonnes of LMO to southern states of the country, it said. These trains have delivered more than 3,600, 3,700 and 4,900 tonnes of LMO in Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu respectively. Also read | Daily COVID-19 count in India remains below 1,00,000 mark The service has reached out to 15 states and union territories - Uttarakhand, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Haryana, Telangana, Punjab, Kerala, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand and Assam. Till now, 614 tonnes of LMO has been offloaded in Maharashtra, nearly 3,797 tonnes in Uttar Pradesh, 656 tonnes in Madhya Pradesh, 5,722 tonnes in Delhi, 2,354 tonnes in Haryana, 98 tonnes in Rajasthan, and 3,782 tonnes in Karnataka, the statement said. So far, 320 tonnes of LMO has been offloaded in Uttarakhand, 4,941 tonnes in Tamil Nadu, 3,664 tonnes in Andhra Pradesh, 225 tonnes in Punjab, 513 tonnes in Kerala, 2,972 tonnes in Telangana, 38 tonnes in Jharkhand and 480 tonnes in Assam, it said. Also read | BCCI to donate 10-litre 2000 oxygen concentrators to help India's battle against COVID-19 Oxygen Express trains have offloaded LMO in around 39 cities or towns in 15 states. Crisscrossing the country, Indian Railways is picking up oxygen from places like Hapa, Baroda, Mundra in the West and Rourkela, Durgapur, Tatanagar, Angul in the East and then delivering it to States of Uttarakhand, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Haryana, Telangana, Punjab, Kerala, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh & Assam in complex operational route planning scenarios.

Oxygen Express: Over 30,000 tonnes of Liquid Medical Oxygen delivered

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will participate virtually in the outreach sessions of the G7 summit on June 12 and 13. Watch the report to know more.

G7 Summit 2021: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to attend sessions on June 12 and 13

A study by the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT-M) has urged greater government investment in public healthcare to mitigate the impact of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a> on the elderly.

The study suggests that the elderly are even bound to be adversely affected by COVID-19 norms such as physical distancing and isolation, which can lead to depression and other issues.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/home-grown-maritime-traffic-management-software-to-be-ready-in-2022-says-iit-madras-390652" hreflang="en">Home-grown Maritime Traffic Management software to be ready in 2022, says IIT Madras</a>

According to the study, diabetes, blood pressure and cardiovascular diseases are common in the elderly and those in the lower socio-economic strata suffer more.

Mobility issues, dependence on younger generation amid lockdown etc. affect their access to routine primary healthcare and essential care for other ailments.&nbsp;

"Only 18.9% of the elderly had health insurance and therefore may not be able to bear large expenditures on health. 27.5% of people aged 80 years or above are immobile and 70% of elders are partially or wholly financially dependent on others," the study revealed, based on the 75th round of the National Sample Survey (NSS) 2017-18.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-positive-liver-failure-patient-who-was-comatose-revived-successfully-after-transplant-390577" hreflang="en">COVID-19 positive liver-failure patient who was comatose revived successfully after transplant</a>

Undertaken by Prof. V.R. Muraleedharan, Dept of Humanities &amp; Social Sciences, IIT Madras, and Dr Alok Ranjan, Assistant Prof, Dept of Humanities &amp; Social Sciences at IIT Jodhpur, the NSS survey covered 113,823 households and 555,115 individuals.

The surveyed were randomly selected from 8077 villages and 6181 urban areas. The results of this study, published in the International journal Globalization and Health, showed that disparities exist in health status as well as healthcare access of elderly people across the country.

Factors such place of residence, gender, social group (caste), marital status, living arrangements, surviving children, and economic dependence are said to impact healthcare access among the elderly. Missed treatments and unavailability of drugs also pose a major health challenge.

Dr Alok Ranjan is of the opinion that lessons from the current pandemic are learnt to&nbsp;ensure that future adversities are less detrimental to the physical and mental well-being of the elderly. The researchers want to extend the result of this study to a policy. They plan to carry out detailed surveys among the elderly population particularly in Tamil Nadu, especially to design effective rehabilitative care which is almost absent in India's public healthcare system.

A study by the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT-M) has urged greater government investment in public healthcare to mitigate the impact of COVID-19 on the elderly.

A study by the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT-M) has urged greater government investment in public healthcare to mitigate the impact of COVID-19 on the elderly. The study suggests that the elderly are even bound to be adversely affected by COVID-19 norms such as physical distancing and isolation, which can lead to depression and other issues. Also read | Home-grown Maritime Traffic Management software to be ready in 2022, says IIT Madras According to the study, diabetes, blood pressure and cardiovascular diseases are common in the elderly and those in the lower socio-economic strata suffer more. Mobility issues, dependence on younger generation amid lockdown etc. affect their access to routine primary healthcare and essential care for other ailments. "Only 18.9% of the elderly had health insurance and therefore may not be able to bear large expenditures on health. 27.5% of people aged 80 years or above are immobile and 70% of elders are partially or wholly financially dependent on others," the study revealed, based on the 75th round of the National Sample Survey (NSS) 2017-18. Also read | COVID-19 positive liver-failure patient who was comatose revived successfully after transplant Undertaken by Prof. V.R. Muraleedharan, Dept of Humanities & Social Sciences, IIT Madras, and Dr Alok Ranjan, Assistant Prof, Dept of Humanities & Social Sciences at IIT Jodhpur, the NSS survey covered 113,823 households and 555,115 individuals. The surveyed were randomly selected from 8077 villages and 6181 urban areas. The results of this study, published in the International journal Globalization and Health, showed that disparities exist in health status as well as healthcare access of elderly people across the country. Factors such place of residence, gender, social group (caste), marital status, living arrangements, surviving children, and economic dependence are said to impact healthcare access among the elderly. Missed treatments and unavailability of drugs also pose a major health challenge. Dr Alok Ranjan is of the opinion that lessons from the current pandemic are learnt to ensure that future adversities are less detrimental to the physical and mental well-being of the elderly. The researchers want to extend the result of this study to a policy. They plan to carry out detailed surveys among the elderly population particularly in Tamil Nadu, especially to design effective rehabilitative care which is almost absent in India's public healthcare system.

Only 19% elderly have health insurance and can’t bear costs: IIT study

Dr. Kiran Doshi, owner of the car that was swallowed by a sinkhole in India's western Mumbai city on Monday said he had never imagined in his dreams that such a bizarre incident would occur.

The video of a car sinking into a caved-in portion of a parking lot in the city's Ghatkopar residential society went viral on social media on Sunday (June 13). Authorities recovered the car almost 12 hours after the incident happened.

Doshi said his children rushed down on seeing the car drowning in the sinkhole and his daughter-in-law shot a clip of the incident.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MumbaiRains?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MumbaiRains</a> 
Car swallowed completely by a sinkhole in residential complex in Mumbai.. Later discovered that it was a covered well under a parking lot! <a href="https://t.co/nvLct0QqfU">pic.twitter.com/nvLct0QqfU</a>
— Subodh Srivastava 🇮🇳 (@SuboSrivastava) <a href="https://twitter.com/SuboSrivastava/status/1404014178755518474?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

As per media reports, there was a well at the place which the residents covered with a concrete slab and started parking cars over it and the incident occurred due to land subsidence following rain.

Mumbai&nbsp;Traffic Police said ,"There was a well at the place. Some people covered it with concrete slab&amp;started parking cars over it. Incident occurred due to land subsidence following rain. No one injured."

Meanwhile, the Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai, formerly known as the Bombay Municipal Corporation, said in a statement said the incident has nothing to do with the civic body as it happened on a private housing society’s premises.

Terrestrial rains often skirt Mumbai, a metropolis of more than 20 million people, every year during the June-September monsoon season, filling potholes and overflowing sewage, triggering road accidents and killing many.

Dr. Kiran Doshi, owner of the car that was swallowed by a sinkhole in India's western Mumbai city on Monday said he had never imagined in his dreams that such a bizarre incident would occur.

Dr. Kiran Doshi, owner of the car that was swallowed by a sinkhole in India's western Mumbai city on Monday said he had never imagined in his dreams that such a bizarre incident would occur. The video of a car sinking into a caved-in portion of a parking lot in the city's Ghatkopar residential society went viral on social media on Sunday (June 13). Authorities recovered the car almost 12 hours after the incident happened. Doshi said his children rushed down on seeing the car drowning in the sinkhole and his daughter-in-law shot a clip of the incident. #MumbaiRains Car swallowed completely by a sinkhole in residential complex in Mumbai.. Later discovered that it was a covered well under a parking lot! pic.twitter.com/nvLct0QqfU — Subodh Srivastava 🇮🇳 (@SuboSrivastava) June 13, 2021 × As per media reports, there was a well at the place which the residents covered with a concrete slab and started parking cars over it and the incident occurred due to land subsidence following rain. Mumbai Traffic Police said ,"There was a well at the place. Some people covered it with concrete slab&started parking cars over it. Incident occurred due to land subsidence following rain. No one injured." Meanwhile, the Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai, formerly known as the Bombay Municipal Corporation, said in a statement said the incident has nothing to do with the civic body as it happened on a private housing society’s premises. Terrestrial rains often skirt Mumbai, a metropolis of more than 20 million people, every year during the June-September monsoon season, filling potholes and overflowing sewage, triggering road accidents and killing many.

'Never imagined this in my dreams,' says owner of car swallowed by Mumbai sinkhole

When people decide to bring change, anything is possible. An initiative started by the locals of Srinagar city's Gill Kadal area to clean a dead lake and bring it back to life has finally paid off.

In the middle of the old city,&nbsp;Khushalsar lake was gasping for survival and had turned into a marshy land, making it difficult for locals to even breathe in the area.&nbsp;

However, in the last four months, the locals in the area took it upon themselves to start the process of cleaning the lake. Around 1,000 trucks of garbage have already been taken out and more is being cleared out.&nbsp;However, the lake looks alive again.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/man-with-39-wives-and-127-children-dies-in-india-due-to-hypertension-391434">Man with 39 wives dies in India due to hypertension</a>

Manzoor Wagnoo started the campaign and got everyone on board. He started with the locals and later involved the government to help them in cleaning this lake.&nbsp;

''The most important thing is that in Kashmir,&nbsp;most water bodies are in shambles. I took this initiative with the word Ehsaas. People were walking over the lake as it was dead. I went the next day and met with the locals to discuss the plan. People over there said that many have come and wanted to do this but no one stayed for beyond a couple of days. I literally with folded hands asked them to give me some time,"&nbsp;said Manzoor Wangnoo, social worker.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/caught-120-paintings-of-monet-modiglani-went-missing-in-1970s-replaced-with-fakes-391395" hreflang="en">Caught!: 120 paintings of Monet, Modiglani went missing in 1970s, replaced with fakes</a>

"I thought it was not a small job, I sought an appointment with Div Com and he was extremely helpful. He asked me to start work the following day. We started the work in February. Just a few days ago we threw open this lake and can you believe we took a shikara ride in this lake after thirty years. The whole water body was choked. Tourists in the old days used to come to take a shikara ride in this lake and there was a beautiful bird sanctuary, the children would swim there and we had a special fish called golden fish which I will make sure is found in it again."&nbsp;

People living around the lake had given up because&nbsp;they thought it would be impossible to bring it back to life. Some locals also said that in their childhood days, they would drink water from this lake and catch fish too.&nbsp;

''I have been living here for the last 50 years, we live right on the banks of this lake, I remember we used to fish here in my childhood and I have caught fish of 3 kgs in this lake, we used to drink this water but now you can't even touch the water. This place used to stink like anything, we would not come out in the gardens as there was so much stink,'' said Mohd Yousuf, a local.&nbsp;

The locals in the area donated money from their own pockets to clean this lake.&nbsp;

''We have initiated this here with the help of Manzoor Wagnoo. This was in a very bad state. People had started walking over it, It used to stink and there were animals all over it. Manzoor came here and brought us all together, we all donated money for the cleaning of this lake,'' said Mohd Maqbool, a local.&nbsp;

The government has been helping the locals in this initiative as well and have now started to clean the other portion of the lake called Gilsar.

''In Khushalsar, the initiative was taken by the locals there, it's a lake which is a part of Dal. There were huge piles of garbage dumped over years. We managed to take out 20 trucks of Garbage every day. We, under the support of Srinagar smart city, have supported this project. After the khushalsar, wehave started working on Gilsar lake too. Significant work has been done on both the lake and we are sure to bring them back to its earlier glory. We are reviving old water channels,'' said Athar Amin, Commissioner Srinagar SMC.&nbsp;

He also appreciated the locals for taking such initiatives and helping the government in reviving these water bodies. ''People are taking initiative which is encouraging for us also. if these water bodies are cleaned today and people start dumping garbage again won't serve the purpose, but people are starting to take these initiatives and we are extremely happy about it,'' added Athar Amin, Commissioner Srinagar SMC.&nbsp;

When people decide to bring change, anything is possible. An initiative started by the locals of Srinagar city's Gill Kadal area to clean a dead lake and bring it back to life has finally paid off.

When people decide to bring change, anything is possible. An initiative started by the locals of Srinagar city's Gill Kadal area to clean a dead lake and bring it back to life has finally paid off. In the middle of the old city, Khushalsar lake was gasping for survival and had turned into a marshy land, making it difficult for locals to even breathe in the area. However, in the last four months, the locals in the area took it upon themselves to start the process of cleaning the lake. Around 1,000 trucks of garbage have already been taken out and more is being cleared out. However, the lake looks alive again. Also read | Man with 39 wives dies in India due to hypertension Manzoor Wagnoo started the campaign and got everyone on board. He started with the locals and later involved the government to help them in cleaning this lake. ''The most important thing is that in Kashmir, most water bodies are in shambles. I took this initiative with the word Ehsaas. People were walking over the lake as it was dead. I went the next day and met with the locals to discuss the plan. People over there said that many have come and wanted to do this but no one stayed for beyond a couple of days. I literally with folded hands asked them to give me some time," said Manzoor Wangnoo, social worker. Also read | Caught!: 120 paintings of Monet, Modiglani went missing in 1970s, replaced with fakes "I thought it was not a small job, I sought an appointment with Div Com and he was extremely helpful. He asked me to start work the following day. We started the work in February. Just a few days ago we threw open this lake and can you believe we took a shikara ride in this lake after thirty years. The whole water body was choked. Tourists in the old days used to come to take a shikara ride in this lake and there was a beautiful bird sanctuary, the children would swim there and we had a special fish called golden fish which I will make sure is found in it again." People living around the lake had given up because they thought it would be impossible to bring it back to life. Some locals also said that in their childhood days, they would drink water from this lake and catch fish too. ''I have been living here for the last 50 years, we live right on the banks of this lake, I remember we used to fish here in my childhood and I have caught fish of 3 kgs in this lake, we used to drink this water but now you can't even touch the water. This place used to stink like anything, we would not come out in the gardens as there was so much stink,'' said Mohd Yousuf, a local. The locals in the area donated money from their own pockets to clean this lake. ''We have initiated this here with the help of Manzoor Wagnoo. This was in a very bad state. People had started walking over it, It used to stink and there were animals all over it. Manzoor came here and brought us all together, we all donated money for the cleaning of this lake,'' said Mohd Maqbool, a local. The government has been helping the locals in this initiative as well and have now started to clean the other portion of the lake called Gilsar. ''In Khushalsar, the initiative was taken by the locals there, it's a lake which is a part of Dal. There were huge piles of garbage dumped over years. We managed to take out 20 trucks of Garbage every day. We, under the support of Srinagar smart city, have supported this project. After the khushalsar, wehave started working on Gilsar lake too. Significant work has been done on both the lake and we are sure to bring them back to its earlier glory. We are reviving old water channels,'' said Athar Amin, Commissioner Srinagar SMC. He also appreciated the locals for taking such initiatives and helping the government in reviving these water bodies. ''People are taking initiative which is encouraging for us also. if these water bodies are cleaned today and people start dumping garbage again won't serve the purpose, but people are starting to take these initiatives and we are extremely happy about it,'' added Athar Amin, Commissioner Srinagar SMC.

Local residents bring back a dead lake in Srinagar

The recruitment for the clinical trial of the country's first indigenously-developed COVID-19 vaccine, Covaxin, among children in the age group of 6-12 years will begin at the AIIMS here from Tuesday. This will be followed by the clinical trial of children in the age group of 2-6 years.

The enrolment of children volunteers aged 12-18 years at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) has been completed and they have been given the first dose of Covaxin.

"The recruitment process for the clinical trial of Covaxin among children in the age group of 6-12 years will begin from Tuesday," Dr Sanjay Rai, Professor at the Centre for Community Medicine at the AIIMS, told PTI.

The Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) had granted permission for conducting the Phase 2/3 clinical trial of Bharat Biotech's Covaxin among children aged two to 18 years on May 12.

The trial is to be conducted in three parts -- 175 volunteers each in the groups aged 12-18, 6-12 and 2-6 years. In the trial, the vaccine will be given by the intramuscular route in two doses on day 0 and day 28.

Covaxin, indigenously developed by Bharat Biotech in collaboration with the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), is being used in adults in the country's ongoing COVID-19 vaccination drive. The clinical trials will evaluate the safety, reactogenicity and immunogenicity of the vaccine in children.

The government recently cautioned that even though COVID-19 has not taken a serious shape among children till now, its impact can increase among them if there is a change in the virus behaviour or epidemiology dynamics and said preparations are being strengthened to deal with any such situation.

A national expert group has been formed to review COVID-19 cases in children and approach the pandemic in a renewed way to strengthen the country's preparedness, NITI Aayog Member (Health) V K Paul had told a press conference. The group has examined signs that were not available four-five months before, he had said.

The recruitment for the clinical trial of the country's first indigenously-developed COVID-19 vaccine, Covaxin, among children in the age group of 6-12 years will begin at the AIIMS here from Tuesday.

The recruitment for the clinical trial of the country's first indigenously-developed COVID-19 vaccine, Covaxin, among children in the age group of 6-12 years will begin at the AIIMS here from Tuesday. This will be followed by the clinical trial of children in the age group of 2-6 years. The enrolment of children volunteers aged 12-18 years at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) has been completed and they have been given the first dose of Covaxin. "The recruitment process for the clinical trial of Covaxin among children in the age group of 6-12 years will begin from Tuesday," Dr Sanjay Rai, Professor at the Centre for Community Medicine at the AIIMS, told PTI. The Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) had granted permission for conducting the Phase 2/3 clinical trial of Bharat Biotech's Covaxin among children aged two to 18 years on May 12. The trial is to be conducted in three parts -- 175 volunteers each in the groups aged 12-18, 6-12 and 2-6 years. In the trial, the vaccine will be given by the intramuscular route in two doses on day 0 and day 28. Covaxin, indigenously developed by Bharat Biotech in collaboration with the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), is being used in adults in the country's ongoing COVID-19 vaccination drive. The clinical trials will evaluate the safety, reactogenicity and immunogenicity of the vaccine in children. The government recently cautioned that even though COVID-19 has not taken a serious shape among children till now, its impact can increase among them if there is a change in the virus behaviour or epidemiology dynamics and said preparations are being strengthened to deal with any such situation. A national expert group has been formed to review COVID-19 cases in children and approach the pandemic in a renewed way to strengthen the country's preparedness, NITI Aayog Member (Health) V K Paul had told a press conference. The group has examined signs that were not available four-five months before, he had said.

Recruitment for clinical trial of Covaxin in 6-12 age group to start at AIIMS from Tuesday

India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar will be in Italy's Matera on June 29 for the G20 Foreign Minister's (FM) meet. Italy is the host of the G20 grouping this year and will hold the leader's summit in Rome on October 30 and 31.&nbsp;

Last year G20, under the chairmanship of Saudi Arabia, held virtual meetings, including the leaders' meet, due to the coronavirus pandemic that had sent countries into lockdown.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/at-g7-pm-modi-highlights-indias-civilisational-commitment-to-democracy-391208" hreflang="en">At G7, PM Modi highlights India's civilisational commitment to democracy</a>

The G20 FMs meet will see the participation of FM of other countries as well. China, Russia, the US, UK, France, and others are part of the grouping and this will provide an occasion for several bilateral meetings as well.

If all FMs confirm the visit, this could be the first-ever in-person multilateral meet of FM of 20 countries amid pandemics. Covid crisis had impacted the in-person meeting, considered key in diplomacy. Before this, June saw in-person G7 FMs meet, and guest countries visited London, including&nbsp;EAM Jaishankar.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/g7-outreach-summit-pm-modi-gives-mantra-of-one-earth-one-health-391072" hreflang="en">G7 outreach summit: PM Modi gives mantra of 'One Earth, One Health'</a>

At the last year's G20 FMs meet, India's EAM had proposed developing global standards on the movement of people. It had three main elements- standards on testing procedures and universal acceptability of test results, quarantine procedures.

Jaishankar had last visited Rome in 2019 and took part in the 5th edition of the Mediterranean Dialogues. The conference was attended by more than 40 world leaders.

India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar will be in Italy's Matera on June 29 for the G20 Foreign Minister's (FM) meet. Italy is the host of the G20 grouping this year and will hold the leader's summit in Rome on October 30 and 31.

India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar will be in Italy's Matera on June 29 for the G20 Foreign Minister's (FM) meet. Italy is the host of the G20 grouping this year and will hold the leader's summit in Rome on October 30 and 31. Last year G20, under the chairmanship of Saudi Arabia, held virtual meetings, including the leaders' meet, due to the coronavirus pandemic that had sent countries into lockdown. Also read | At G7, PM Modi highlights India's civilisational commitment to democracy The G20 FMs meet will see the participation of FM of other countries as well. China, Russia, the US, UK, France, and others are part of the grouping and this will provide an occasion for several bilateral meetings as well. If all FMs confirm the visit, this could be the first-ever in-person multilateral meet of FM of 20 countries amid pandemics. Covid crisis had impacted the in-person meeting, considered key in diplomacy. Before this, June saw in-person G7 FMs meet, and guest countries visited London, including EAM Jaishankar. Also read | G7 outreach summit: PM Modi gives mantra of 'One Earth, One Health' At the last year's G20 FMs meet, India's EAM had proposed developing global standards on the movement of people. It had three main elements- standards on testing procedures and universal acceptability of test results, quarantine procedures. Jaishankar had last visited Rome in 2019 and took part in the 5th edition of the Mediterranean Dialogues. The conference was attended by more than 40 world leaders.

EAM Jaishankar to visit Italy for G20 FMs meet

India reported 80,834 fresh COVID-19 cases, the lowest after 71 days, while the daily positivity rate further dropped to 4.25 per cent, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Sunday.

With the fresh cases, the country's tally of cases has climbed to 2,94,39,989.&nbsp;The COVID-19 death toll climbed to 3,70,384 with 3,303 fresh fatalities, the data updated at 8 am showed.

The active cases further declined to 10,26,159 comprising 3.49 per cent of the total infections, while the national COVID-19 recovery rate has improved to 95.26 per cent.

A net decline of 54,531 cases has been recorded in the COVID-19 caseload in a span of 24 hours.

Also 19,20,477 tests were conducted on Saturday taking the total cumulative tests conducted so far for detection of COVID-19 in the country to 37,62,32,162 while the daily positivity rate has further dropped to 4.25 per cent.

It has been less than 10 per cent for 20 consecutive days, the ministry said, adding the weekly positivity rate fell below 5 per cent and was recorded 4.74 per cent.

Recoveries continue to outnumber daily new cases for the 31st consecutive day.&nbsp;The number of people who have recuperated from the disease surged to 2,80,43,446, while the case fatality rate has increased to 1.26 per cent, the data stated.

Cumulatively, 25,31,95,048 COVID-19 vaccine doses have been administered so far under the nationwide vaccination drive.

The 3,303 fresh fatalities include 1,966 from Maharashtra, 374 from Tamil Nadu, 171 from Kerala and 144 from Karnataka.

A total of 3,70,384 deaths have been reported so far in the country including 1,08,333 from Maharashtra, 32,788 from Karnataka, 29,280 from Tamil Nadu, 24,800 from Delhi, 21,735 from Uttar Pradesh, 16,812 from West Bengal, 15,503 from Punjab and 13,311 from Chhattisgarh.

The ministry stressed that more than 70 per cent of the deaths occurred due to comorbidities.&nbsp;"Our figures are being reconciled with the Indian Council of Medical Research," the ministry said on its website, adding that state-wise distribution of figures is subject to further verification and reconciliation.&nbsp;

India reported 80,834 fresh COVID-19 cases, the lowest after 71 days, while the daily positivity rate further dropped to 4.25 per cent, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Sunday.

India reported 80,834 fresh COVID-19 cases, the lowest after 71 days, while the daily positivity rate further dropped to 4.25 per cent, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Sunday. With the fresh cases, the country's tally of cases has climbed to 2,94,39,989. The COVID-19 death toll climbed to 3,70,384 with 3,303 fresh fatalities, the data updated at 8 am showed. The active cases further declined to 10,26,159 comprising 3.49 per cent of the total infections, while the national COVID-19 recovery rate has improved to 95.26 per cent. A net decline of 54,531 cases has been recorded in the COVID-19 caseload in a span of 24 hours. Also 19,20,477 tests were conducted on Saturday taking the total cumulative tests conducted so far for detection of COVID-19 in the country to 37,62,32,162 while the daily positivity rate has further dropped to 4.25 per cent. It has been less than 10 per cent for 20 consecutive days, the ministry said, adding the weekly positivity rate fell below 5 per cent and was recorded 4.74 per cent. Recoveries continue to outnumber daily new cases for the 31st consecutive day. The number of people who have recuperated from the disease surged to 2,80,43,446, while the case fatality rate has increased to 1.26 per cent, the data stated. Cumulatively, 25,31,95,048 COVID-19 vaccine doses have been administered so far under the nationwide vaccination drive. The 3,303 fresh fatalities include 1,966 from Maharashtra, 374 from Tamil Nadu, 171 from Kerala and 144 from Karnataka. A total of 3,70,384 deaths have been reported so far in the country including 1,08,333 from Maharashtra, 32,788 from Karnataka, 29,280 from Tamil Nadu, 24,800 from Delhi, 21,735 from Uttar Pradesh, 16,812 from West Bengal, 15,503 from Punjab and 13,311 from Chhattisgarh. The ministry stressed that more than 70 per cent of the deaths occurred due to comorbidities. "Our figures are being reconciled with the Indian Council of Medical Research," the ministry said on its website, adding that state-wise distribution of figures is subject to further verification and reconciliation.

Daily COVID-19 count in India remains below 1,00,000 mark

India has said that it will study the US President Joe Biden's 'Build Back Better'&nbsp;global infrastructure initiative proposal announced at the G7 summit as an alternative to China`s Belt and Road (BRI).

This plan, which is proposed to be led by major democracies, will provide financial and technological help to narrow the over USD 40 trillion infrastructure need, mainly in the developing world which has been worsened by COVID-19.

It is also expected to create local employment. This initiative at G7 is seen as a potential jolt to Chinese President Xi Jinping's pet project BRI.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/at-g7-pm-modi-highlights-indias-civilisational-commitment-to-democracy-391208">At G7, PM Modi highlights India's civilisational commitment to democracy</a>

India said relevant agencies will be studying the plan and will probably engage with the project later. Briefing reporters, senior ministry of external affairs (MEA) official P Harish said, "On the specific question of joining 'Build back better for the world', I can confirm that relevant agencies of the government of India would study them and would engage with them probably at the later stage.

"China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is already facing criticism even by subscribing countries. Whether it is mounting debt, a lack of local employment or transparency, a lot of questions and red flags have been raised. While India refused to join the Chinese initiative and sees it as an infringement of its territorial integrity, neighbours Pakistan, Nepal and Sri Lanka are part of the BRI.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-invites-india-to-join-g7-health-ministers-summit-virtually-386322">UK invites India to join G7 Health Ministers' Summit virtually</a>

At G7, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has urged the democratic countries to demonstrate to the world that they can implement projects in a more effective and transparent manner.

According to a senior MEA official, "The PM has emphasised that democracies should demonstrate that in project implementation sphere we can deliver not only within the country but in other countries also. On this issue, the PM referred to India's experience that is in neighbouring countries, African countries and that in development framework partnership. The PM also indicated that India stands ready to do more in this regard keeping in view the ethos of transparency and inclusion.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modis-participation-at-g7-will-be-seamless-uk-tells-india-390904">PM Modi's participation at G7 will be seamless, UK tells India</a>

"At G7, Prime Minister Modi also emphasised the need for open and democratic societies to work together and strengthen each other's hands to defend the values that they hold and to respond to challenges.

When asked whether there was any discussion on the origin of COVID, the MEA official said "I can say that leaders of the G7 and guest countries had a very detailed and intense discussion on the need for reforming global health governance, I would like to emphasise in this regard that India has been actively engaged with the international community at the levels of G20, G7 and the World Health Assembly on various aspects related to dealing with the current pandemic, learning lessons and preparing for future pandemics.

"The India-South Africa TRIPS waiver proposal also found widespread support at the G7 and the need to diversify technology transfer and financing for equitable vaccine distribution.

MEA secretary P Harish said, "There was widespread support in the deliberation for text-based negotiations for India-South Africa proposal for TRIPS waiver at WTO. On the need to provide financial assistance to various manufacturers in the world was general agreement to increase its capacity, regional production hubs, providing financing, technology transfer and skill development in these regions."

"I can say without hesitation that India's engagement with the G7 and guest countries stands on its own. This is the second G7 summit that the PM attended. He attended in France in 2019. This is also the first time India has been engaged and ministerial and working-level tracks as a guest country. This is a significant engagement," the senior MEA official added.

"UK Prime Minister Johnson referred to the four guest countries and working-level tracks as forming a democratic level and many countries appreciated India's G7 engagement and PM Modi's interventions during sessions which found a great resonance in the gathering. So I can say that our engagement was fruitful, was productive and we hope to take forward our engagement in various initiatives including in the run-up to COP26," MEA Secretary P Harish added.

India has said that it will study the US President Joe Biden's 'Build Back Better' global infrastructure initiative proposal announced at the G7 summit as an alternative to China`s Belt and Road (BRI).

India has said that it will study the US President Joe Biden's 'Build Back Better' global infrastructure initiative proposal announced at the G7 summit as an alternative to China`s Belt and Road (BRI). This plan, which is proposed to be led by major democracies, will provide financial and technological help to narrow the over USD 40 trillion infrastructure need, mainly in the developing world which has been worsened by COVID-19. It is also expected to create local employment. This initiative at G7 is seen as a potential jolt to Chinese President Xi Jinping's pet project BRI. Also read | At G7, PM Modi highlights India's civilisational commitment to democracy India said relevant agencies will be studying the plan and will probably engage with the project later. Briefing reporters, senior ministry of external affairs (MEA) official P Harish said, "On the specific question of joining 'Build back better for the world', I can confirm that relevant agencies of the government of India would study them and would engage with them probably at the later stage. "China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is already facing criticism even by subscribing countries. Whether it is mounting debt, a lack of local employment or transparency, a lot of questions and red flags have been raised. While India refused to join the Chinese initiative and sees it as an infringement of its territorial integrity, neighbours Pakistan, Nepal and Sri Lanka are part of the BRI. Also read | UK invites India to join G7 Health Ministers' Summit virtually At G7, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has urged the democratic countries to demonstrate to the world that they can implement projects in a more effective and transparent manner. According to a senior MEA official, "The PM has emphasised that democracies should demonstrate that in project implementation sphere we can deliver not only within the country but in other countries also. On this issue, the PM referred to India's experience that is in neighbouring countries, African countries and that in development framework partnership. The PM also indicated that India stands ready to do more in this regard keeping in view the ethos of transparency and inclusion. Also read | PM Modi's participation at G7 will be seamless, UK tells India "At G7, Prime Minister Modi also emphasised the need for open and democratic societies to work together and strengthen each other's hands to defend the values that they hold and to respond to challenges. When asked whether there was any discussion on the origin of COVID, the MEA official said "I can say that leaders of the G7 and guest countries had a very detailed and intense discussion on the need for reforming global health governance, I would like to emphasise in this regard that India has been actively engaged with the international community at the levels of G20, G7 and the World Health Assembly on various aspects related to dealing with the current pandemic, learning lessons and preparing for future pandemics. "The India-South Africa TRIPS waiver proposal also found widespread support at the G7 and the need to diversify technology transfer and financing for equitable vaccine distribution. MEA secretary P Harish said, "There was widespread support in the deliberation for text-based negotiations for India-South Africa proposal for TRIPS waiver at WTO. On the need to provide financial assistance to various manufacturers in the world was general agreement to increase its capacity, regional production hubs, providing financing, technology transfer and skill development in these regions." "I can say without hesitation that India's engagement with the G7 and guest countries stands on its own. This is the second G7 summit that the PM attended. He attended in France in 2019. This is also the first time India has been engaged and ministerial and working-level tracks as a guest country. This is a significant engagement," the senior MEA official added. "UK Prime Minister Johnson referred to the four guest countries and working-level tracks as forming a democratic level and many countries appreciated India's G7 engagement and PM Modi's interventions during sessions which found a great resonance in the gathering. So I can say that our engagement was fruitful, was productive and we hope to take forward our engagement in various initiatives including in the run-up to COP26," MEA Secretary P Harish added.

India says will study Biden's infrastructure plan that rivals China's Belt and Road Initiative

Fine details of combat operations, which so far could only be passed through word of mouth, will soon be made public and archived as Defense Minister Rajnath Singh approved a policy on the declassification of military history.

Indian Defence Minister gives nod to new policy on India's war histories

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday spoke during two sessions at the G7 summit highlighting India's 'civilizational commitment' to democracy and called for collective action on the issue of Climate Change.

At the session titled "Open Societies and Open Economies", PM was the lead speaker, and a joint statement on 'open societies' by leaders of India, South Africa, South Korea, and Australia, and G7 was released.

"As the world’s largest democracy, India is a natural ally for the G7 and guest countries to defend these shared values from a host of threats stemming from authoritarianism, terrorism and violent extremism, disinformation and infodemics and economic coercion", MEA's Additional Secretary (ER) P Harish said at a virtual presser.

On climate change, PM Modi pointed out India's achievements and that it is the only G20 country on track to meet its Paris commitments. He called on G7 grouping to meet the "unfulfilled promise" of $100 billion annually in climate finance as "this challenge cannot be addressed in silos".

This is the 2nd time PM Modi has participated at the G7. He had last participated in 2019 when the summit was held under the chairmanship of France. India was invited last year by US President Donald Trump for the G7 but the meet could not happen due to the Covid pandemic.

On Sunday, PM Modi mentioned India's leadership role on Climate Change such as via International Solar Alliance and CDRI or Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure.

India-led initiatives have seen an increase in global membership.

PM Modi also pointed out the "revolutionary impact of digital technologies" on "social inclusion and empowerment in India" via Aadhaar, DBT (Direct Benefit Transfer), and JAM (Jan Dhan- Aadhaar- Mobile) trinity.

PM Modi on Saturday had addressed the session on health and had given out the mantra of 'One Earth, One Health'. He sought &nbsp;G7's support for the India and South Africa Covid vaccine patent waiver at the World Trade Organisation (WTO)

Last week, the consensus was achieved on the issue with New Delhi calling for early conclusion of text-based negotiation for the practical implementation of the proposal. 
&nbsp; 
PM's engagement had resonance. German Chancellor Angela Merkel backed PM Modi's mantra on health. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, and Australian PM Scott Morrison extended support for Covid vaccine patent waiver, and French President Macron called on India to lend its expertise as an important hub of vaccines globally. As part of growing engagement with the grouping, this time India was engaged at the ministerial and working levels as well. 
&nbsp;

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday spoke during two sessions at the G7 summit highlighting India's 'civilizational commitment' to democracy and called for collective action on the issue of Climate Change.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday spoke during two sessions at the G7 summit highlighting India's 'civilizational commitment' to democracy and called for collective action on the issue of Climate Change. At the session titled "Open Societies and Open Economies", PM was the lead speaker, and a joint statement on 'open societies' by leaders of India, South Africa, South Korea, and Australia, and G7 was released. "As the world’s largest democracy, India is a natural ally for the G7 and guest countries to defend these shared values from a host of threats stemming from authoritarianism, terrorism and violent extremism, disinformation and infodemics and economic coercion", MEA's Additional Secretary (ER) P Harish said at a virtual presser. On climate change, PM Modi pointed out India's achievements and that it is the only G20 country on track to meet its Paris commitments. He called on G7 grouping to meet the "unfulfilled promise" of $100 billion annually in climate finance as "this challenge cannot be addressed in silos". This is the 2nd time PM Modi has participated at the G7. He had last participated in 2019 when the summit was held under the chairmanship of France. India was invited last year by US President Donald Trump for the G7 but the meet could not happen due to the Covid pandemic. On Sunday, PM Modi mentioned India's leadership role on Climate Change such as via International Solar Alliance and CDRI or Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure. India-led initiatives have seen an increase in global membership. PM Modi also pointed out the "revolutionary impact of digital technologies" on "social inclusion and empowerment in India" via Aadhaar, DBT (Direct Benefit Transfer), and JAM (Jan Dhan- Aadhaar- Mobile) trinity. PM Modi on Saturday had addressed the session on health and had given out the mantra of 'One Earth, One Health'. He sought G7's support for the India and South Africa Covid vaccine patent waiver at the World Trade Organisation (WTO) Last week, the consensus was achieved on the issue with New Delhi calling for early conclusion of text-based negotiation for the practical implementation of the proposal. PM's engagement had resonance. German Chancellor Angela Merkel backed PM Modi's mantra on health. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, and Australian PM Scott Morrison extended support for Covid vaccine patent waiver, and French President Macron called on India to lend its expertise as an important hub of vaccines globally. As part of growing engagement with the grouping, this time India was engaged at the ministerial and working levels as well.

At G7, PM Modi highlights India's civilisational commitment to democracy

In a significant move, India and Kuwait have signed a Memorandum of Cooperation that will protect the rights of Indian domestic workers in Kuwait by introducing employment contracts that provides them with the protection of Law.&nbsp;

The pact, on the anvil for a long time, was signed during External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar's visit to the country. It streamlines the recruitment process for Indian workers. The MoU focusses on the signing of contracts that ensure the rights and obligations of both Kuwaiti employers and Indian domestic workers.&nbsp;

EAM speaking to the Indian Diaspora in Kuwait said that the MoU, "streamlines and strengthens the position of our workers in Kuwait" and it is "an important step which would encourage greater Indian presence" in the country.

The MoU was signed by India's Ambassador to Kuwait Sibi George and Kuwait's Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs Majdi Ahmad Al–Dhafiri. Under the MoU, a 24-hour mechanism will be established to assist domestic workers. Also, a joint committee will be established for periodic review and assessment and a follow-up to the implementation of MoU.

Kuwait hosts, over one million Indian community members. They form the largest expatriate community in the West Asian country. The Indian embassy has an Indian Workers’ Welfare Centre which provides a toll-free 24x7 telephonic helpline for Indian domestic workers, a labour complaint redressal mechanism and accommodation for domestic workers in distress and other services.

India's External Affairs Minister was on a 3-day visit to the country as part of increased political engagement between the 2 countries. During the meeting, he called on Kuwait's PM Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah and held delegation-level talks with FM Sheikh Ahmed Nasser Al-Mohammad Al-Sabah.

Indian foreign minister during the talks conveyed to Kuwaiti leadership the country's efforts and role amid the 2nd wave of Covid pandemic in India. Kuwait and India had established an air and sea bridge under which the West Asian country had sent Liquid Medical Oxygen and Oxygen containers to deal with the crisis.

Later this year, India and Kuwait will hold the first meeting of the Kuwait-India joint commission and will also plan early meeting of joint working groups on health, hydrocarbon and manpower. This year both sides celebrate the 60th year of diplomatic ties, one that will continue through the year 2021-2022.

In a significant move, India and Kuwait have signed a Memorandum of Cooperation that will protect the rights of Indian domestic workers in Kuwait by introducing employment contracts that provides them with the protection of Law.

In a significant move, India and Kuwait have signed a Memorandum of Cooperation that will protect the rights of Indian domestic workers in Kuwait by introducing employment contracts that provides them with the protection of Law. The pact, on the anvil for a long time, was signed during External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar's visit to the country. It streamlines the recruitment process for Indian workers. The MoU focusses on the signing of contracts that ensure the rights and obligations of both Kuwaiti employers and Indian domestic workers. EAM speaking to the Indian Diaspora in Kuwait said that the MoU, "streamlines and strengthens the position of our workers in Kuwait" and it is "an important step which would encourage greater Indian presence" in the country. The MoU was signed by India's Ambassador to Kuwait Sibi George and Kuwait's Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs Majdi Ahmad Al–Dhafiri. Under the MoU, a 24-hour mechanism will be established to assist domestic workers. Also, a joint committee will be established for periodic review and assessment and a follow-up to the implementation of MoU. Kuwait hosts, over one million Indian community members. They form the largest expatriate community in the West Asian country. The Indian embassy has an Indian Workers’ Welfare Centre which provides a toll-free 24x7 telephonic helpline for Indian domestic workers, a labour complaint redressal mechanism and accommodation for domestic workers in distress and other services. India's External Affairs Minister was on a 3-day visit to the country as part of increased political engagement between the 2 countries. During the meeting, he called on Kuwait's PM Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah and held delegation-level talks with FM Sheikh Ahmed Nasser Al-Mohammad Al-Sabah. Indian foreign minister during the talks conveyed to Kuwaiti leadership the country's efforts and role amid the 2nd wave of Covid pandemic in India. Kuwait and India had established an air and sea bridge under which the West Asian country had sent Liquid Medical Oxygen and Oxygen containers to deal with the crisis. Later this year, India and Kuwait will hold the first meeting of the Kuwait-India joint commission and will also plan early meeting of joint working groups on health, hydrocarbon and manpower. This year both sides celebrate the 60th year of diplomatic ties, one that will continue through the year 2021-2022.

India, Kuwait sign pacts to protect rights of Indian domestic workers

With a focus on the welfare of the Indian community in the Gulf, India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar met Indian envoys in seven&nbsp;Gulf countries during his Kuwait visit.

During the meeting, Jaishankar met India's envoy to Kuwait&nbsp;Sibi George, India's envoy to Saudi Arabia Dr. Ausaf Sayeed, India's envoy to UAE Pavan Kapoor, India's envoy to Iran Gaddam Dharmendra, India's envoy to Oman Munu Mahawar, &nbsp;India's envoy to Qatar Dr. Deepak Mittal&nbsp;and&nbsp;India's envoy to Bahrain Piyush Srivastava.&nbsp;JS Gulf Vipul was also present.

Speaking to the Indian community, EAM Jaishankar said, "My instructions to all the ambassadors was that they need to focus, even more, I must say they have done a splendid job in last year and a half, but focus even more on the welfare of the Indian community."

EAM asked envoys to facilitate reuniting the families separated by COVID-19, help in the early return of Indian talent who left the region during the pandemic, work on the speedy resumption of flights between the Gulf and India, and increase trade linkages that will help in post-COVID-19&nbsp;economic recovery.

The Gulf hosts the largest number of Indians overseas&nbsp;most of whom are blue-collared workers.

In fact, it is said Indian workers are building the cities of the Gulf, supplying the region with crucial manpower. They are a crucial source of remittances back home&nbsp;helping develop communities.

EAM highlighted, "for us, the Gulf is a very special region, it is our extended neighbourhood, source of a lot of our energy supply and it's a special region because of the Indian diaspora."

Amid the COVID-19&nbsp;pandemic, many had to return which created a lot of problems for several people&nbsp;in terms of finances and future employment.&nbsp;

India has been helping out to the diaspora in the region&nbsp;with Indian missions providing services.

India also has an e-Migrate system that provides protection to blue-collar workers. This is a measure to ensure protection against possible exploitation&nbsp;of the Indian workers.

With a focus on the welfare of the Indian community in the Gulf, India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar met Indian envoys in seven Gulf countries during his Kuwait visit.

With a focus on the welfare of the Indian community in the Gulf, India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar met Indian envoys in seven Gulf countries during his Kuwait visit. During the meeting, Jaishankar met India's envoy to Kuwait Sibi George, India's envoy to Saudi Arabia Dr. Ausaf Sayeed, India's envoy to UAE Pavan Kapoor, India's envoy to Iran Gaddam Dharmendra, India's envoy to Oman Munu Mahawar, India's envoy to Qatar Dr. Deepak Mittal and India's envoy to Bahrain Piyush Srivastava. JS Gulf Vipul was also present. Speaking to the Indian community, EAM Jaishankar said, "My instructions to all the ambassadors was that they need to focus, even more, I must say they have done a splendid job in last year and a half, but focus even more on the welfare of the Indian community." EAM asked envoys to facilitate reuniting the families separated by COVID-19, help in the early return of Indian talent who left the region during the pandemic, work on the speedy resumption of flights between the Gulf and India, and increase trade linkages that will help in post-COVID-19 economic recovery. The Gulf hosts the largest number of Indians overseas most of whom are blue-collared workers. In fact, it is said Indian workers are building the cities of the Gulf, supplying the region with crucial manpower. They are a crucial source of remittances back home helping develop communities. EAM highlighted, "for us, the Gulf is a very special region, it is our extended neighbourhood, source of a lot of our energy supply and it's a special region because of the Indian diaspora." Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, many had to return which created a lot of problems for several people in terms of finances and future employment. India has been helping out to the diaspora in the region with Indian missions providing services. India also has an e-Migrate system that provides protection to blue-collar workers. This is a measure to ensure protection against possible exploitation of the Indian workers.

In Kuwait, EAM meets Indian envoys from seven Gulf countries with focus on diaspora welfare

With Covid pandemic continuing to impact many parts of the world, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi gave the mantra of "One Earth, One Health" at G7 outreach summit&nbsp;

India, along with South Africa, South Korea &amp; Australia have been invited by UK for the G7 outreach summit taking place in Cornwall. PM Modi joined the summit virtually.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel specifically referred to PM's mantra of "One Earth, One Health" at the meet and conveyed her strong support for it.

During the meet, the India-South Africa proposal at World Trade Organisation (WTO) for Covid vaccine patent wavier was referred. Australian PM Scott Morrison during the summit, recalling his discussions with PM Modi about Covid vaccine patent wavier conveyed his country's strong support to it.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/g7-adopts-global-infrastructure-plan-an-answer-to-chinas-belt-and-road-initiative-391026">G7 adopts global infrastructure plan, an answer to China's Belt and Road Initiative</a>

Last week, WTO was able to achieve consensus on it with India calling for early conclusion of text-based negotiations.

Meanwhile, French President Emmanuel Macron called for supply of Covid vaccine raw materials to major vaccine producers like India for mass production of vaccines. He had mentioned this at a press conference ahead of the summit too. At the press conference, he highlighted that intellectual property (IP) should never be a barrier to access vaccines &amp; also the need to work on the proposal for a time-and space-limited exemption of IP.

With Covid pandemic continuing to impact many parts of the world, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi gave the mantra of "One Earth, One Health" at G7 outreach summit India, along with South Africa, South Korea & Australia have been invited by UK for the G7 outreach summit taking place in Cornwall.

With Covid pandemic continuing to impact many parts of the world, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi gave the mantra of "One Earth, One Health" at G7 outreach summit India, along with South Africa, South Korea & Australia have been invited by UK for the G7 outreach summit taking place in Cornwall. PM Modi joined the summit virtually. German Chancellor Angela Merkel specifically referred to PM's mantra of "One Earth, One Health" at the meet and conveyed her strong support for it. During the meet, the India-South Africa proposal at World Trade Organisation (WTO) for Covid vaccine patent wavier was referred. Australian PM Scott Morrison during the summit, recalling his discussions with PM Modi about Covid vaccine patent wavier conveyed his country's strong support to it. Also Read | G7 adopts global infrastructure plan, an answer to China's Belt and Road Initiative Last week, WTO was able to achieve consensus on it with India calling for early conclusion of text-based negotiations. Meanwhile, French President Emmanuel Macron called for supply of Covid vaccine raw materials to major vaccine producers like India for mass production of vaccines. He had mentioned this at a press conference ahead of the summit too. At the press conference, he highlighted that intellectual property (IP) should never be a barrier to access vaccines & also the need to work on the proposal for a time-and space-limited exemption of IP.

G7 outreach summit: PM Modi gives mantra of 'One Earth, One Health'

The GST Council on Saturday slashed tax rate on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a> drugs such as Remdesivir and Tocilizumab as well as on medical oxygen and oxygen concentrators but ignored demands for reduction in taxes on vaccines.

The Council, acting on the recommendation of a group of ministers from different states, cut to nil GST on COVID-19 drug Tocilizumab and black fungus medicine Amphotericin B, from existing 5 per cent. Besides, hand sanitiser, pulse oximeter, BiPAP machine, testing kit, ambulance and temperature check equipment were among the 18 items on which GST rates were lowered.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-reports-84332-new-coronavirus-cases-in-24-hours-its-lowest-in-70-days-390986">India reports 84,332 new coronavirus cases in 24 hours, its lowest in 70 days</a>

A 5 per cent GST levy on vaccines will continue which will allow manufacturers to get benefit of settling taxes paid on inputs.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman explained that the 5 per cent levy will not put any additional burden on common man as the government was procuring all vaccines and giving them to citizens for free.

The reduced tax rates were based on a recommendation of a group of ministers, headed by Meghalaya Deputy Chief Minister Conrad Sangma, and would remain effective till September 30, 2021.

"It was felt that the GoM's recommendations has brought in a lot of substantial change. Many items, that were at 18 per cent and 12 per cent, brought down to 5 per cent. So there was a lot of substance in the recommendation made by GoM. The Council largely agreed to go with GoM's recommendation...," Sitharaman said while briefing reporters after the 44th GST Council meeting here.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-stand-in-solidarity-with-india-says-irans-envoy-dr-ali-chegeni-lauds-new-delhi-for-its-open-hand-390541">COVID-19: Stand in solidarity with India says Iran's envoy Dr Ali Chegeni; lauds New Delhi for its ‘open hand’</a>

The notification of lower GST rates would be issued "tomorrow or day after".

While GST on Tocilizumab and Amphotericin B is slashed to nil from 5 per cent, the rate on Remdesivir and anticoagulants like Heparin is lowered from 12 per cent to 5 per cent. GST rate on ambulance has been cut to 12 per cent from 28 per cent.

Tax on medical grade oxygen, oxygen concentrator (including personal imports), ventilators, BiPAP machines and high flow nasal cannula (HFNC) devices has been cut to 5 per cent from 12 per cent.

Also, tax on Covid testing kits, pulse oximeter (including personal imports) has been brought down to 5 per cent from 12 per cent. Hand sanitisers, temperature check equipment, gas/electric furnaces for crematoriums too will attract lower 5 per cent tax, compared to 18 per cent earlier.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-govt-issues-guidelines-on-covid-19-in-children-says-remdesivir-not-recommended-390531">Indian govt issues guidelines on COVID-19 in children, says Remdesivir not recommended</a>

In the previous meeting of the GST Council on May 28, taxes on COVID-19 vaccines and medical supplies were left unchanged after the BJP&nbsp;and Opposition ruled states sparred over whether the tax cut benefits will reach the common man.

An 8-member GoM, under Sangma, was set up to recommend GST rate on Covid essentials.

The other members of the GoM are Gujarat Deputy Chief Minister Nitinbhai Patel, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, Goa Transport Minister Mauvin Godinho, Finance ministers of Kerala (K N Balagopal), Odisha (Niranjan Pujari), Telangana (T Harish Rao) and UP (Suresh Kr Khanna).

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/govt-allocates-additional-17-lakh-vials-of-amphotericin-b-to-states-uts-390453">Govt allocates additional 1.7 lakh vials of Amphotericin-B to states, UTs</a>

To a query on Congress saying that they were not made part of the GoM, Sitharaman said, "... I don't want to comment on what was said outside. In the Council, the three Congress ministers said that in the future at least you should consider having us in GoM. The selection into a GoM is never made on party basis, neither is the exclusion. There are several GoMs and several ministers are made members of the GoM. All states are given representation in one or the other GoM. Neither the inclusion, nor the exclusions happen on political party affiliations."

Industry chamber PHDCCI said the calibrated reduction in the rates of GST on Covid relief essentials will go a long way in treating Covid cases and to provide required relief for treatment of infections.

"PHDCCI looks forward to the continued reform measures by the government to mitigate the daunting impact of Covid on people and to make India free from the pandemic," it said in a statement.

The GST Council on Saturday slashed tax rate on COVID-19 drugs such as Remdesivir and Tocilizumab as well as on medical oxygen and oxygen concentrators but ignored demands for reduction in taxes on vaccines.

The GST Council on Saturday slashed tax rate on COVID-19 drugs such as Remdesivir and Tocilizumab as well as on medical oxygen and oxygen concentrators but ignored demands for reduction in taxes on vaccines. The Council, acting on the recommendation of a group of ministers from different states, cut to nil GST on COVID-19 drug Tocilizumab and black fungus medicine Amphotericin B, from existing 5 per cent. Besides, hand sanitiser, pulse oximeter, BiPAP machine, testing kit, ambulance and temperature check equipment were among the 18 items on which GST rates were lowered. Also read | India reports 84,332 new coronavirus cases in 24 hours, its lowest in 70 days A 5 per cent GST levy on vaccines will continue which will allow manufacturers to get benefit of settling taxes paid on inputs. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman explained that the 5 per cent levy will not put any additional burden on common man as the government was procuring all vaccines and giving them to citizens for free. The reduced tax rates were based on a recommendation of a group of ministers, headed by Meghalaya Deputy Chief Minister Conrad Sangma, and would remain effective till September 30, 2021. "It was felt that the GoM's recommendations has brought in a lot of substantial change. Many items, that were at 18 per cent and 12 per cent, brought down to 5 per cent. So there was a lot of substance in the recommendation made by GoM. The Council largely agreed to go with GoM's recommendation...," Sitharaman said while briefing reporters after the 44th GST Council meeting here. Also read | COVID-19: Stand in solidarity with India says Iran's envoy Dr Ali Chegeni; lauds New Delhi for its ‘open hand’ The notification of lower GST rates would be issued "tomorrow or day after". While GST on Tocilizumab and Amphotericin B is slashed to nil from 5 per cent, the rate on Remdesivir and anticoagulants like Heparin is lowered from 12 per cent to 5 per cent. GST rate on ambulance has been cut to 12 per cent from 28 per cent. Tax on medical grade oxygen, oxygen concentrator (including personal imports), ventilators, BiPAP machines and high flow nasal cannula (HFNC) devices has been cut to 5 per cent from 12 per cent. Also, tax on Covid testing kits, pulse oximeter (including personal imports) has been brought down to 5 per cent from 12 per cent. Hand sanitisers, temperature check equipment, gas/electric furnaces for crematoriums too will attract lower 5 per cent tax, compared to 18 per cent earlier. Also read | Indian govt issues guidelines on COVID-19 in children, says Remdesivir not recommended In the previous meeting of the GST Council on May 28, taxes on COVID-19 vaccines and medical supplies were left unchanged after the BJP and Opposition ruled states sparred over whether the tax cut benefits will reach the common man. An 8-member GoM, under Sangma, was set up to recommend GST rate on Covid essentials. The other members of the GoM are Gujarat Deputy Chief Minister Nitinbhai Patel, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, Goa Transport Minister Mauvin Godinho, Finance ministers of Kerala (K N Balagopal), Odisha (Niranjan Pujari), Telangana (T Harish Rao) and UP (Suresh Kr Khanna). Also read | Govt allocates additional 1.7 lakh vials of Amphotericin-B to states, UTs To a query on Congress saying that they were not made part of the GoM, Sitharaman said, "... I don't want to comment on what was said outside. In the Council, the three Congress ministers said that in the future at least you should consider having us in GoM. The selection into a GoM is never made on party basis, neither is the exclusion. There are several GoMs and several ministers are made members of the GoM. All states are given representation in one or the other GoM. Neither the inclusion, nor the exclusions happen on political party affiliations." Industry chamber PHDCCI said the calibrated reduction in the rates of GST on Covid relief essentials will go a long way in treating Covid cases and to provide required relief for treatment of infections. "PHDCCI looks forward to the continued reform measures by the government to mitigate the daunting impact of Covid on people and to make India free from the pandemic," it said in a statement.

GST slashed on COVID-19, black fungus medicines; 5% tax retained on vaccines

Those among Sri Lankan Tamils who watched Family Man 2 have one thing to say in unison - “It’s a brilliant fiction thriller”. While some of the viewers did have differences of opinion and disliked some portions, none of them felt that the spy-thriller drama series deserved a ban. It is notable that Naam Tamilar Katchi (an LTTE-Sympathizer outfit) in Tamil Nadu and the ruling DMK Government have been demanding a ban, just after watching the trailer. Their demands for a ban continued even after the series released.&nbsp;

These parties sought a ban on the series directed by Indian duo Raj and DK. Many on social media were quick to call for boycott of actor Samantha’s films (she played a crucial role in the series). Some individuals even went to the extent of threatening to boycott Amazon and their Prime Video Service. While the ban on Family Man 2 was first demanded by Seeman’s Naam Tamilar Katchi, it was lapped up by the DMK-Government’s IT Minister. He wrote to the Union Information and Broadcasting Minister Prakash Javadekar, on two instances, calling for a ban on the series.&nbsp;

Zee Media spoke to Sri Lankan Tamils to understand the finer aspects of their observations from having watched Family Man 2.&nbsp;

While the Family Man 2 series release was highly anticipated in India after the successful first series, it was not the same in Sri Lanka. Hardly any Lankan Tamils knew of the series or its impending release. The few who watched it were film enthusiasts and those who had a keen interest in the genre. Some Sri Lankan Tamil journalists had not even heard of this series, but were keen on watching both seasons after being recommended the trailer.

According to IS Kumaran, a Sri lankan Tamil, who holds a degree in International Affairs, the Family Man series is clearly a work of fiction. He believes that since it is made for mass-market entertainment, the makers enjoy creative freedom, unlike a fact or perspective-based documentary.&nbsp;

Having watched both seasons, he says that the plot is not just about government versions of the Lankan war and its consequences. “The way the character Raji(played by Samantha) speaks about the horrors meted out to her family and her own self, is exposing the Sri Lankan government and army narrative on the war. It also deals with how centre-state politics works in India and the larger Indo-China geopolitical play in the Indian Ocean region” he told Zee media.&nbsp;

A Sri Lankan Tamil and movie buff (who wished not to be named) is of the firm opinion that the series does not denigrate or insult the Lankan Tamil freedom struggle. Instead, he feels that it showcases the struggle of a persecuted minority race. “The word terrorist is not used against the rebels, instead they call them as rebels” he points out to Zee Media. He also adds that the series portrays the political games that the Indian government, Lankan Government and Tamil Nadu Government played to attain their own objectives.

However, he does object to how the character that seems to draw a parallel to slain LTTE leader Prabhakaran, is portrayed. He feels that more justice could have been done to that character, given the leadership and power of Prabhakaran, which kept the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) going for nearly three decades. While commending Samantha’s fire-in-her-eyes portrayal of Raji, he says that it rightly portrays LTTE women cadre as highly trained, skilled and capable. However, he believes that the women in the LTTE held their self-respect high and would not do “anything” (as portrayed in two instances in the series) to fulfill their mission.&nbsp;

“How they have shown the rebel leader(alluding to LTTE Prabhakaran) as a runaway who went and lived a luxurious life in a foreign land is questionable. Given the strict discipline and abstinence of the LTTE, showing him and cadre enjoying liquor and smoking is not accurate” opined a Sri Lankan Tamil Journalist(on condition of anonymity) to Zee Media. However, he too maintains that the series is worth a watch and the calls for its ban by Tamil Nadu’s political parties are totally unreasonable.&nbsp;

However, it must be noted that the makers clearly stated that theirs was a work of fiction. It came with the usual disclaimer which said any resemblance to persons living/dead and actual events is purely coincidental. But, for some viewers, the LTTE similarity is hard to miss. It is owing to the rebels’ camouflage uniform, cyanide capsule neckbands, the attempt to assassinate an Indian prime minister (the connect with Former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi’s Assassination 1991 by a woman suicide bomber), etc.

Eventually, the series did release without any hindrance. Available on Amazon Prime Video for more than a week, the series has garnered great reviews from various quarters and is on its way to become a standard-setter in the Indian OTT Landscape.&nbsp;

Those among Sri Lankan Tamils who watched Family Man 2 have one thing to say in unison - “It’s a brilliant fiction thriller”. While some of the viewers did have differences of opinion and disliked some portions, none of them felt that the spy-thriller drama series deserved a ban.

Those among Sri Lankan Tamils who watched Family Man 2 have one thing to say in unison - “It’s a brilliant fiction thriller”. While some of the viewers did have differences of opinion and disliked some portions, none of them felt that the spy-thriller drama series deserved a ban. It is notable that Naam Tamilar Katchi (an LTTE-Sympathizer outfit) in Tamil Nadu and the ruling DMK Government have been demanding a ban, just after watching the trailer. Their demands for a ban continued even after the series released. These parties sought a ban on the series directed by Indian duo Raj and DK. Many on social media were quick to call for boycott of actor Samantha’s films (she played a crucial role in the series). Some individuals even went to the extent of threatening to boycott Amazon and their Prime Video Service. While the ban on Family Man 2 was first demanded by Seeman’s Naam Tamilar Katchi, it was lapped up by the DMK-Government’s IT Minister. He wrote to the Union Information and Broadcasting Minister Prakash Javadekar, on two instances, calling for a ban on the series. Zee Media spoke to Sri Lankan Tamils to understand the finer aspects of their observations from having watched Family Man 2. While the Family Man 2 series release was highly anticipated in India after the successful first series, it was not the same in Sri Lanka. Hardly any Lankan Tamils knew of the series or its impending release. The few who watched it were film enthusiasts and those who had a keen interest in the genre. Some Sri Lankan Tamil journalists had not even heard of this series, but were keen on watching both seasons after being recommended the trailer. According to IS Kumaran, a Sri lankan Tamil, who holds a degree in International Affairs, the Family Man series is clearly a work of fiction. He believes that since it is made for mass-market entertainment, the makers enjoy creative freedom, unlike a fact or perspective-based documentary. Having watched both seasons, he says that the plot is not just about government versions of the Lankan war and its consequences. “The way the character Raji(played by Samantha) speaks about the horrors meted out to her family and her own self, is exposing the Sri Lankan government and army narrative on the war. It also deals with how centre-state politics works in India and the larger Indo-China geopolitical play in the Indian Ocean region” he told Zee media. A Sri Lankan Tamil and movie buff (who wished not to be named) is of the firm opinion that the series does not denigrate or insult the Lankan Tamil freedom struggle. Instead, he feels that it showcases the struggle of a persecuted minority race. “The word terrorist is not used against the rebels, instead they call them as rebels” he points out to Zee Media. He also adds that the series portrays the political games that the Indian government, Lankan Government and Tamil Nadu Government played to attain their own objectives. However, he does object to how the character that seems to draw a parallel to slain LTTE leader Prabhakaran, is portrayed. He feels that more justice could have been done to that character, given the leadership and power of Prabhakaran, which kept the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) going for nearly three decades. While commending Samantha’s fire-in-her-eyes portrayal of Raji, he says that it rightly portrays LTTE women cadre as highly trained, skilled and capable. However, he believes that the women in the LTTE held their self-respect high and would not do “anything” (as portrayed in two instances in the series) to fulfill their mission. “How they have shown the rebel leader(alluding to LTTE Prabhakaran) as a runaway who went and lived a luxurious life in a foreign land is questionable. Given the strict discipline and abstinence of the LTTE, showing him and cadre enjoying liquor and smoking is not accurate” opined a Sri Lankan Tamil Journalist(on condition of anonymity) to Zee Media. However, he too maintains that the series is worth a watch and the calls for its ban by Tamil Nadu’s political parties are totally unreasonable. However, it must be noted that the makers clearly stated that theirs was a work of fiction. It came with the usual disclaimer which said any resemblance to persons living/dead and actual events is purely coincidental. But, for some viewers, the LTTE similarity is hard to miss. It is owing to the rebels’ camouflage uniform, cyanide capsule neckbands, the attempt to assassinate an Indian prime minister (the connect with Former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi’s Assassination 1991 by a woman suicide bomber), etc. Eventually, the series did release without any hindrance. Available on Amazon Prime Video for more than a week, the series has garnered great reviews from various quarters and is on its way to become a standard-setter in the Indian OTT Landscape.

Here's how Sri Lankan Tamils reacted after watching Family Man 2

Covaxin has been denied emergency use authorisation in the US. The vaccine is yet to be listed on the WHO's list of approved vaccines. The lack of global approvals has put a question mark on travel, work & study plans of millions of Indians.

India: No American approval for Covaxin

The Dominica High Court has denied bail to fugitive diamantaire Mehul Choksi in the case of illegal entry into the island country after his mysterious disappearance from neighbouring Antigua and Barbuda where he is staying as a citizen since 2018, local Caribbean media reported. 
 
The high court on Friday gave the ruling by concluding that Choksi was a "flight risk", did not have any ties with Dominica and the court could not impose any conditions which will stop him from leaving the country, news outlet AntiguaNewsroom said. 
 
Choksi had approached the high court after the magistrate had rejected his bail petition. 
 
The 62-year old diamantaire, who has an Interpol Red Notice against him, had mysteriously gone missing on May 23 from Antigua and Barbuda where he has been staying since 2018 as a citizen after fleeing from India.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/dominica-declares-fugitive-mehul-choksi-a-prohibited-immigrant-390740/amp">Also Read |&nbsp;Dominica declares fugitive Mehul Choksi a 'prohibited immigrant'</a> 
 
He was detained in the neighbouring island country of Dominica for illegal entry after a possible romantic escapade with his rumoured girlfriend. 
 
Choksi's lawyers had filed a habeas corpus petition calling his arrest illegal and alleging that he was abducted, tortured and handed over to Dominica authority to deny him rights available to him in Antigua and Barbuda as a citizen. 
 
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the External Affairs Ministry have sought to implead in the habeas corpus petition by filing two affidavits in the Dominica High Court, officials said here. 
 
The central agency will focus on establishing criminal culpability of Choksi, fugitive status, pending warrants against him, Red Notice and charge sheets, while the External Affairs Ministry will argue that Choksi continues to be an Indian citizen, they said. 
 
The affidavits, if admitted, will pave way for noted lawyer Harish Salve to plead an Indian case in Dominica, they said. 
 
Choksi, promoter of Geetanjali Gems and other famous diamond brands in India, had fled the country weeks before Rs 13,500 crore fraud in Punjab National Bank (PNB) allegedly involving him and his nephew Nirav Modi surfaced. 
 
His lawyers alleged that he was kidnapped from Jolly Harbour in Antigua by policemen looking like Antiguan and Indian and brought to Dominica on a boat. 
 
Choksi was also brought before a Roseau magistrate, on the orders of High Court Judge Bernie Stephenson, hearing the habeas corpus matter, to answer charges of illegal entry where he pleaded not guilty but was denied bail. 
 
His lawyer in London Michael Polak has filed a complaint with Scotland Yard seeking a probe into the alleged abduction and torture of his client. 
 
Polak said Choksi was removed from Antigua and Barbuda, whereas a citizen he enjoys rights to approach the British Privy Council as the last resort in cases on his citizenship and extradition, to Dominica where these rights are not available to him. 
 
"The aim was to remove him from Antigua to Dominica to diminish his protection under the law. Choksi has ongoing proceedings in Antigua in regards to attempts by the prime minister to remove his citizenship, the only citizenship that he possesses, and to extradite him to India," he had said.

The Dominica High Court has denied bail to fugitive diamantaire Mehul Choksi in the case of illegal entry into the island country after his mysterious disappearance from neighbouring Antigua and Barbuda where he is staying as a citizen since 2018, local Caribbean media reported.

The Dominica High Court has denied bail to fugitive diamantaire Mehul Choksi in the case of illegal entry into the island country after his mysterious disappearance from neighbouring Antigua and Barbuda where he is staying as a citizen since 2018, local Caribbean media reported. The high court on Friday gave the ruling by concluding that Choksi was a "flight risk", did not have any ties with Dominica and the court could not impose any conditions which will stop him from leaving the country, news outlet AntiguaNewsroom said. Choksi had approached the high court after the magistrate had rejected his bail petition. The 62-year old diamantaire, who has an Interpol Red Notice against him, had mysteriously gone missing on May 23 from Antigua and Barbuda where he has been staying since 2018 as a citizen after fleeing from India. Also Read | Dominica declares fugitive Mehul Choksi a 'prohibited immigrant' He was detained in the neighbouring island country of Dominica for illegal entry after a possible romantic escapade with his rumoured girlfriend. Choksi's lawyers had filed a habeas corpus petition calling his arrest illegal and alleging that he was abducted, tortured and handed over to Dominica authority to deny him rights available to him in Antigua and Barbuda as a citizen. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the External Affairs Ministry have sought to implead in the habeas corpus petition by filing two affidavits in the Dominica High Court, officials said here. The central agency will focus on establishing criminal culpability of Choksi, fugitive status, pending warrants against him, Red Notice and charge sheets, while the External Affairs Ministry will argue that Choksi continues to be an Indian citizen, they said. The affidavits, if admitted, will pave way for noted lawyer Harish Salve to plead an Indian case in Dominica, they said. Choksi, promoter of Geetanjali Gems and other famous diamond brands in India, had fled the country weeks before Rs 13,500 crore fraud in Punjab National Bank (PNB) allegedly involving him and his nephew Nirav Modi surfaced. His lawyers alleged that he was kidnapped from Jolly Harbour in Antigua by policemen looking like Antiguan and Indian and brought to Dominica on a boat. Choksi was also brought before a Roseau magistrate, on the orders of High Court Judge Bernie Stephenson, hearing the habeas corpus matter, to answer charges of illegal entry where he pleaded not guilty but was denied bail. His lawyer in London Michael Polak has filed a complaint with Scotland Yard seeking a probe into the alleged abduction and torture of his client. Polak said Choksi was removed from Antigua and Barbuda, whereas a citizen he enjoys rights to approach the British Privy Council as the last resort in cases on his citizenship and extradition, to Dominica where these rights are not available to him. "The aim was to remove him from Antigua to Dominica to diminish his protection under the law. Choksi has ongoing proceedings in Antigua in regards to attempts by the prime minister to remove his citizenship, the only citizenship that he possesses, and to extradite him to India," he had said.

Mehul Choksi denied bail by Dominican high court

Chief of Defence Staff, General Bipin Rawat in an exclusive interview with WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay.

The Interview: Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat speaks to WION

india-news

India, News on India, stories on India, articles on India, India stories at Wion, India news, India latest news

india news

Mehul Choksi's claim of renouncing Indian citizenship bogus: India

Mehul Choksi is still an Indian citizen, India tells Dominica court

Man with 39 wives and 127 children dies in India due to hypertension

Taj Mahal to reopen from June 16, visitors to book tickets online

India-China border standoff: Galwan anniversary remembrance in Leh this week

Already burgled: Residents in Indian city paste notes to avoid more thefts in house

Jaishankar's Kenya visit: India extends support to domestic programmes; discuss Indo-Pacific

Oxygen Express: Over 30,000 tonnes of Liquid Medical Oxygen delivered

G7 Summit 2021: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to attend sessions on June 12 and 13

Only 19% elderly have health insurance and can’t bear costs: IIT study

'Never imagined this in my dreams,' says owner of car swallowed by Mumbai sinkhole

Local residents bring back a dead lake in Srinagar

Recruitment for clinical trial of Covaxin in 6-12 age group to start at AIIMS from Tuesday

Recruitment for clinical trial of Covaxin in 6-12 age group to start at AIIMS from Tuesday

EAM Jaishankar to visit Italy for G20 FMs meet

Daily COVID-19 count in India remains below 1,00,000 mark

India says will study Biden's infrastructure plan that rivals China's Belt and Road Initiative

Indian Defence Minister gives nod to new policy on India's war histories

At G7, PM Modi highlights India's civilisational commitment to democracy

India, Kuwait sign pacts to protect rights of Indian domestic workers

In Kuwait, EAM meets Indian envoys from seven Gulf countries with focus on diaspora welfare

G7 outreach summit: PM Modi gives mantra of 'One Earth, One Health'

GST slashed on COVID-19, black fungus medicines; 5% tax retained on vaccines

Here's how Sri Lankan Tamils reacted after watching Family Man 2