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India and Japan are planning to hold a '2+2' format meeting of foreign and defence ministers in Tokyo later this month, Japanese media reported. &nbsp;

According to NHK, Japanese Foreign Minister Motegi Toshimitsu and Defence Minister Kishi Nobuo are due to attend the meeting with Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.&nbsp;

This will the second such meeting between the two countries as the inaugural meeting of the India-Japan Foreign and Defence Ministerial Dialogue (2+2) was held on November 30, 2019, in New Delhi.&nbsp;

According to Asia Nikkei, this comes as China ramps up its activities in the disputed East and South China Seas. &nbsp;

Meanwhile, Japan's Prime Minister Suga Yoshihide is also making arrangements to visit India. The ministers are expected to discuss ways to cooperate more closely on defence. &nbsp;

Japan and India signed an agreement last year to allow the Self-Defence Forces and the Indian military to provide each other with food and fuel. &nbsp;

The NHK, in a report, said that the Japanese government is increasingly looking to India as an ally that shares basic values and can help work toward a free and open Indo-Pacific as China continues to assert itself across the region. Both India and Japan time and again have asserted that they are committed to efforts to ensure a free and open Indo-Pacific. &nbsp;

Last month, the leaders of the Quad alliance, India, the US, Japan and Australia had underscored the importance of a 'free and open' Indo-Pacific region during the group's first-ever leaders' summit.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had said that Quad has now come of age and will serve as an important pillar in ensuring the stability of the Indo-Pacific region.&nbsp;

The Asia-Pacific region features several territorial disputes in the South China and East China seas, which involve Brunei, China, Japan, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan, and Vietnam. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

India and Japan are planning to hold a '2+2' format meeting of foreign and defence ministers in Tokyo later this month, Japanese media reported. According to NHK, Japanese Foreign Minister Motegi Toshimitsu and Defence Minister Kishi Nobuo are due to attend the meeting with Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.

India and Japan are planning to hold a '2+2' format meeting of foreign and defence ministers in Tokyo later this month, Japanese media reported. According to NHK, Japanese Foreign Minister Motegi Toshimitsu and Defence Minister Kishi Nobuo are due to attend the meeting with Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. This will the second such meeting between the two countries as the inaugural meeting of the India-Japan Foreign and Defence Ministerial Dialogue (2+2) was held on November 30, 2019, in New Delhi. According to Asia Nikkei, this comes as China ramps up its activities in the disputed East and South China Seas. Meanwhile, Japan's Prime Minister Suga Yoshihide is also making arrangements to visit India. The ministers are expected to discuss ways to cooperate more closely on defence. Japan and India signed an agreement last year to allow the Self-Defence Forces and the Indian military to provide each other with food and fuel. The NHK, in a report, said that the Japanese government is increasingly looking to India as an ally that shares basic values and can help work toward a free and open Indo-Pacific as China continues to assert itself across the region. Both India and Japan time and again have asserted that they are committed to efforts to ensure a free and open Indo-Pacific. Last month, the leaders of the Quad alliance, India, the US, Japan and Australia had underscored the importance of a 'free and open' Indo-Pacific region during the group's first-ever leaders' summit. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had said that Quad has now come of age and will serve as an important pillar in ensuring the stability of the Indo-Pacific region. The Asia-Pacific region features several territorial disputes in the South China and East China seas, which involve Brunei, China, Japan, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan, and Vietnam. (With inputs from agencies)

India, Japan to hold 2+2 talks amid China's aggressive moves  

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders on Saturday said that Trinamool Congress' (TMC) election strategist Prashant Kishor`s leaked audiotape stating Prime Minister Narendra Modi is very popular in West Bengal has put the final nail in TMC's coffin.

Speaking to ANI, BJP MP from Cooch Behar Nisith Pramanik said, "Narendra Modi Ji is famous throughout the world. Prashant Kishor has done the work of putting the last nail in the coffin after finishing TMC."&nbsp;

Pramanik is contesting from the Dinhata constituency in the West Bengal Assembly election. Another BJP MP and party`s candidate from Chunchura Assembly seat Locket Chatterjee said, "Prashant Kishor also knows that Modi Ji is the best and a `sonar Bangla` will be made under his leadership. But to fool the people he got associated with TMC."

Meanwhile, BJP leader Rajib Banerjee who is contesting from the Domjur constituency in Howrah said Kishor`s strategy failed TMC in West Bengal.&nbsp;

"Prashant Kishor`s strategy will not work in Bengal. His strategy has failed. TMC has finished here. In Bengal, only Narendra Modi`s strategy will work," Rajib told ANI.&nbsp;

An audio chat of `Club House room` involving Prashant Kishor and a few journalists went viral on social media. "There is no anti-incumbency against Modi.&nbsp;

Modi has become a cult in the country. Modi is popular in Bengal. The Hindi speaking people is the core support base of BJP in Bengal. Modi is very popular here. Modi and Mamata are equally popular in Bengal," Kishore said in that conversation.&nbsp;

"When we made a survey and asked people whose government will be formed in Bengal. The outcomes predominantly come in favour of the BJP. The majority says BJP`s government will be formed. There are sufficient workers of BJP on the ground. If we leave one or two districts, everywhere there are strong cadets of BJP," added Kishor. "Suvendu is not a factor. Hindus, schedule caste, Dalit and Hindi speaking population are the key factors. Around 50-55 per cent of Hindus are voting for BJP. There are around one crore Hindi speaking population in West Bengal.&nbsp;

Matuas will predominantly vote for the BJP. When we made a survey and asked people whose government will be formed in Bengal. The outcomes predominantly comes in favour of BJP. In-ground there are workers of BJP," explained Kishor.&nbsp;

He further said the parties like Congress, Left and TMC have been practising appeasement politics in West Bengal.&nbsp;

"For the last 20 years, there has been a blatant effort to appease the minority. The entire political ecosystem in Bengal be it Left, Congress or Didi have been to grab the Muslim votes. There is some element that BJP is exploiting. And that element is coming from the blatant misuse of minority politics," Kishor stated.&nbsp;

The election strategist was roped in by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress (TMC) for the West Bengal Assembly Elections 2021.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, voting for 44 constituencies in West Bengal`s fourth phase Assembly elections began at 7 am on Saturday amid tight security. This phase of the elections will witness an intense battle between 373 candidates in 44 constituencies of the state across five districts -- Cooch Behar, Alipurduar, South 24 Parganas, Howrah and Hooghly.&nbsp;

Among the 44 constituencies, nine are in Howrah, 10 in Hooghly, 11 in South 24 Parganas, five in Alipurduar and nine in Cooch Behar. A total of 1,15,81,022 voters will participate in this phase, out of which 2,63,016 are first-time voters. The fifth phase of the Assembly elections will commence on April 17. The counting of votes will take place on May 2.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders on Saturday said that Trinamool Congress' (TMC) election strategist Prashant Kishor`s leaked audiotape stating Prime Minister Narendra Modi is very popular in West Bengal has put the final nail in TMC's coffin.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders on Saturday said that Trinamool Congress' (TMC) election strategist Prashant Kishor`s leaked audiotape stating Prime Minister Narendra Modi is very popular in West Bengal has put the final nail in TMC's coffin. Speaking to ANI, BJP MP from Cooch Behar Nisith Pramanik said, "Narendra Modi Ji is famous throughout the world. Prashant Kishor has done the work of putting the last nail in the coffin after finishing TMC." Pramanik is contesting from the Dinhata constituency in the West Bengal Assembly election. Another BJP MP and party`s candidate from Chunchura Assembly seat Locket Chatterjee said, "Prashant Kishor also knows that Modi Ji is the best and a `sonar Bangla` will be made under his leadership. But to fool the people he got associated with TMC." Meanwhile, BJP leader Rajib Banerjee who is contesting from the Domjur constituency in Howrah said Kishor`s strategy failed TMC in West Bengal. "Prashant Kishor`s strategy will not work in Bengal. His strategy has failed. TMC has finished here. In Bengal, only Narendra Modi`s strategy will work," Rajib told ANI. An audio chat of `Club House room` involving Prashant Kishor and a few journalists went viral on social media. "There is no anti-incumbency against Modi. Modi has become a cult in the country. Modi is popular in Bengal. The Hindi speaking people is the core support base of BJP in Bengal. Modi is very popular here. Modi and Mamata are equally popular in Bengal," Kishore said in that conversation. "When we made a survey and asked people whose government will be formed in Bengal. The outcomes predominantly come in favour of the BJP. The majority says BJP`s government will be formed. There are sufficient workers of BJP on the ground. If we leave one or two districts, everywhere there are strong cadets of BJP," added Kishor. "Suvendu is not a factor. Hindus, schedule caste, Dalit and Hindi speaking population are the key factors. Around 50-55 per cent of Hindus are voting for BJP. There are around one crore Hindi speaking population in West Bengal. Matuas will predominantly vote for the BJP. When we made a survey and asked people whose government will be formed in Bengal. The outcomes predominantly comes in favour of BJP. In-ground there are workers of BJP," explained Kishor. He further said the parties like Congress, Left and TMC have been practising appeasement politics in West Bengal. "For the last 20 years, there has been a blatant effort to appease the minority. The entire political ecosystem in Bengal be it Left, Congress or Didi have been to grab the Muslim votes. There is some element that BJP is exploiting. And that element is coming from the blatant misuse of minority politics," Kishor stated. The election strategist was roped in by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress (TMC) for the West Bengal Assembly Elections 2021. Meanwhile, voting for 44 constituencies in West Bengal`s fourth phase Assembly elections began at 7 am on Saturday amid tight security. This phase of the elections will witness an intense battle between 373 candidates in 44 constituencies of the state across five districts -- Cooch Behar, Alipurduar, South 24 Parganas, Howrah and Hooghly. Among the 44 constituencies, nine are in Howrah, 10 in Hooghly, 11 in South 24 Parganas, five in Alipurduar and nine in Cooch Behar. A total of 1,15,81,022 voters will participate in this phase, out of which 2,63,016 are first-time voters. The fifth phase of the Assembly elections will commence on April 17. The counting of votes will take place on May 2.

Prashant Kishor finished TMC, put the last nail in coffin: BJP MP

India on Friday recorded an all-time high of over 132,000 new COVID-19 cases over the past 24 hours, and nearly about 780 people have lost their lives.

India reports over 132,000 new COVID-19 Cases in 24 hrs

India has recorded a massive surge of 131,968 Covid-19 cases in the last 24 hours. With this, India's tally now stands at 13,060,542, according to MoHFW.&nbsp;

Active cases are nearing the 1-million mark. India is now the 4th-worst-hit country in terms of active cases.&nbsp;

India also witnessed a grim record of most fatalities due to covid-19 in a single day in 2021, which stood at 802. The death toll from the deadly infection stands at 167,694.&nbsp;

Maharashtra added 56,286 new cases to its tally and the total number of cases has now reached 3,229,547, according to the health department. Delhi on Thursday logged 7,437 coronavirus cases in its highest single-day spike this year.

The five most affected states by total cases are Maharashtra (3,229,547), Kerala (1,144,594), Karnataka (1,033,560), Andhra Pradesh (913,274), and Tamil Nadu (911,110).

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said states should observe a 'vaccine festival' between April 11-14 to inoculate the maximum number of eligible beneficiaries against Covid-19.

Over 133 million people have been affected by the coronavirus disease so far, as per the John Hopkins University Covid-19 trackers.

(With inputs from agencies)

India has recorded a massive surge of 131,968 Covid-19 cases in the last 24 hours. With this, India's tally now stands at 13,060,542, according to MoHFW. Active cases are nearing the 1-million mark.

India has recorded a massive surge of 131,968 Covid-19 cases in the last 24 hours. With this, India's tally now stands at 13,060,542, according to MoHFW. Active cases are nearing the 1-million mark. India is now the 4th-worst-hit country in terms of active cases. India also witnessed a grim record of most fatalities due to covid-19 in a single day in 2021, which stood at 802. The death toll from the deadly infection stands at 167,694. Maharashtra added 56,286 new cases to its tally and the total number of cases has now reached 3,229,547, according to the health department. Delhi on Thursday logged 7,437 coronavirus cases in its highest single-day spike this year. The five most affected states by total cases are Maharashtra (3,229,547), Kerala (1,144,594), Karnataka (1,033,560), Andhra Pradesh (913,274), and Tamil Nadu (911,110). Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said states should observe a 'vaccine festival' between April 11-14 to inoculate the maximum number of eligible beneficiaries against Covid-19. Over 133 million people have been affected by the coronavirus disease so far, as per the John Hopkins University Covid-19 trackers. (With inputs from agencies)

With 131,968 fresh cases, India's Covid-19 caseload tops 13 million

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday held a meeting with all chief ministers on the Covid-19 situation in India. The meeting comes at a time when India is facing a second wave of the Covid-19 pandemic.

During the meeting, he said that those who want to do politics are already doing it, but he believes in serving the people of India at such a difficult time.

In his interaction with chief ministers to discuss the COVID-19 situation and the ongoing vaccination drive, Modi said he is confident that all CMs, taking all parties and people together, would change the situation in their respective states.

"As far as doing or not doing politics is concerned, I am seeing from day one and I have been putting up with all kinds of statements without joining the issue myself because I believe that serving the people of India is our responsibility," Modi said.

"God has entrusted us this responsibility to serve the people in this difficult situation, we have to fulfil this. Those who want to do politics are already doing it, I don't want to say anything to them," he said.

The Congress-led opposition has criticised the government over its handling of the COVID-19 and the vaccination drive, while the Centre has maintained that its timely steps have been instrumental in effectively dealing with the pandemic.

Also, while some states have flagged a "shortage" of vaccine doses, the Centre has maintained that sufficient quantity of the jabs has been allocated to all the states and that many of them have been unable to inoculate all eligible beneficiaries.

In his remarks, Modi called for 100 per cent vaccination of 45 years plus population in the high caseload districts.

He also stressed on Dawai Bhi, Kadai Bhi (medicines as well as strict preventive measures)", and urged people not to compromise on that.

(With inputs from agencies)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday held a meeting with all chief ministers on the Covid-19 situation in India. The meeting comes at a time when India is facing a second wave of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday held a meeting with all chief ministers on the Covid-19 situation in India. The meeting comes at a time when India is facing a second wave of the Covid-19 pandemic. During the meeting, he said that those who want to do politics are already doing it, but he believes in serving the people of India at such a difficult time. In his interaction with chief ministers to discuss the COVID-19 situation and the ongoing vaccination drive, Modi said he is confident that all CMs, taking all parties and people together, would change the situation in their respective states. "As far as doing or not doing politics is concerned, I am seeing from day one and I have been putting up with all kinds of statements without joining the issue myself because I believe that serving the people of India is our responsibility," Modi said. "God has entrusted us this responsibility to serve the people in this difficult situation, we have to fulfil this. Those who want to do politics are already doing it, I don't want to say anything to them," he said. The Congress-led opposition has criticised the government over its handling of the COVID-19 and the vaccination drive, while the Centre has maintained that its timely steps have been instrumental in effectively dealing with the pandemic. Also, while some states have flagged a "shortage" of vaccine doses, the Centre has maintained that sufficient quantity of the jabs has been allocated to all the states and that many of them have been unable to inoculate all eligible beneficiaries. In his remarks, Modi called for 100 per cent vaccination of 45 years plus population in the high caseload districts. He also stressed on Dawai Bhi, Kadai Bhi (medicines as well as strict preventive measures)", and urged people not to compromise on that. (With inputs from agencies)

PM warns against the politicisation of Covid-19 amid verbal duel between Centre, states over vaccine supply

India is a critical part of the solution to the climate crisis and an important partner in this fight, a top American lawmaker has said.

House Science Space, and Technology Committee Chairwoman Eddie Bernice Johnson in a tweet on Thursday welcomed the visit of Special Presidential Envoy for Climate John Kerry to India. ''I am so pleased that Kerry visited India to discuss how to tackle the climate crisis,'' she said.

'As one of the world's largest economies and a global leader in science and innovation, India is a critical part of the solution and an important partner in this fight,' Johnson added.

India is a critical part of the solution to the climate crisis and an important partner in this fight, a top American lawmaker has said. House Science Space, and Technology Committee Chairwoman Eddie Bernice Johnson in a tweet on Thursday welcomed the visit of Special Presidential Envoy for Climate John Kerry to India.

India is a critical part of the solution to the climate crisis and an important partner in this fight, a top American lawmaker has said. House Science Space, and Technology Committee Chairwoman Eddie Bernice Johnson in a tweet on Thursday welcomed the visit of Special Presidential Envoy for Climate John Kerry to India. ''I am so pleased that Kerry visited India to discuss how to tackle the climate crisis,'' she said. 'As one of the world's largest economies and a global leader in science and innovation, India is a critical part of the solution and an important partner in this fight,' Johnson added.

India is critical part of solution to climate crisis: US Congresswoman

After a brief halt, India accelerated the work on Chabahar Port early this year and the strategic Iranian port is expected to be operational by next month, a Congressional report has said.

In 2015, India agreed to help develop Iran's Chabahar Port and an associated railway that would enable India to trade with Afghanistan unimpeded by Pakistan, the independent Congressional Research Service (CRS) said in its latest report for the members of the US Congress.

Prepared for the lawmakers for them to make an informed decision, the report, running into nearly 100 pages, said that in May 2016, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Iran and signed an agreement to invest USD 500 million to develop the port and related infrastructure.

Even though the Trump administration gave India the "Afghanistan reconstruction" exception from its punitive Iranian sanctions, India largely stopped work on the project until late 2020.

"It accelerated work in early 2021 and the port is expected to be declared operational no later than May 2021," said the CRS report.

CRS reports are prepared by experts and are not considered the official report of the US Congress.

Iran's economy is highly integrated into those of its immediate neighbours in South Asia, it said, adding that India cites the UN Security Council resolutions as its guideline for policy towards Iran.

During 2011-2016, when UN sanctions were in force on Iran, India's central bank ceased using a Tehran-based regional body, the Asian Clearing Union, to handle transactions with Iran, and the two countries agreed to settle half of India's oil buys from Iran in Indian currency.

India reduced its imports of Iranian oil substantially after 2011, but, after the sanctions were eased in 2016, India's oil imports from Iran increased to as much as 800,000 BPD in July 2018 - well above 2011 levels.

India paid Iran the USD 6.5 billion it owed for oil purchased during 2012-2016. India has not imported Iranian oil since May 2019.

The CRS said Iran's economic relations with Pakistan are less extensive than are its economic ties with India.

One test of Pakistan's compliance with the sanctions was a pipeline project that would carry Iranian gas to Pakistan - a USD 7 billion project that US officials on several occasions stated would be subject to ISA sanctions.

Iran reportedly completed the pipeline on its side of the border but, during Iranian President Hassan Rouhani's visit to Pakistan in March 2016, Pakistan did not commit to complete the line. In 2009, India dissociated itself from the project, it said.

After a brief halt, India accelerated the work on Chabahar Port early this year and the strategic Iranian port is expected to be operational by next month, a Congressional report has said.

After a brief halt, India accelerated the work on Chabahar Port early this year and the strategic Iranian port is expected to be operational by next month, a Congressional report has said. In 2015, India agreed to help develop Iran's Chabahar Port and an associated railway that would enable India to trade with Afghanistan unimpeded by Pakistan, the independent Congressional Research Service (CRS) said in its latest report for the members of the US Congress. Prepared for the lawmakers for them to make an informed decision, the report, running into nearly 100 pages, said that in May 2016, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Iran and signed an agreement to invest USD 500 million to develop the port and related infrastructure. Even though the Trump administration gave India the "Afghanistan reconstruction" exception from its punitive Iranian sanctions, India largely stopped work on the project until late 2020. "It accelerated work in early 2021 and the port is expected to be declared operational no later than May 2021," said the CRS report. CRS reports are prepared by experts and are not considered the official report of the US Congress. Iran's economy is highly integrated into those of its immediate neighbours in South Asia, it said, adding that India cites the UN Security Council resolutions as its guideline for policy towards Iran. During 2011-2016, when UN sanctions were in force on Iran, India's central bank ceased using a Tehran-based regional body, the Asian Clearing Union, to handle transactions with Iran, and the two countries agreed to settle half of India's oil buys from Iran in Indian currency. India reduced its imports of Iranian oil substantially after 2011, but, after the sanctions were eased in 2016, India's oil imports from Iran increased to as much as 800,000 BPD in July 2018 - well above 2011 levels. India paid Iran the USD 6.5 billion it owed for oil purchased during 2012-2016. India has not imported Iranian oil since May 2019. The CRS said Iran's economic relations with Pakistan are less extensive than are its economic ties with India. One test of Pakistan's compliance with the sanctions was a pipeline project that would carry Iranian gas to Pakistan - a USD 7 billion project that US officials on several occasions stated would be subject to ISA sanctions. Iran reportedly completed the pipeline on its side of the border but, during Iranian President Hassan Rouhani's visit to Pakistan in March 2016, Pakistan did not commit to complete the line. In 2009, India dissociated itself from the project, it said.

Iran's Chabahar port likely ready by May as India speeds up work: US report

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has summoned the mother of former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Mehbooba Mufti for questioning in a money laundering case, officials said on Thursday.

They said Gulshan Nazir, in her seventies, has been asked to appear before the central probe agency at its office in Srinagar on April 15.

Mufti, 61, also the president of the People's Democratic Party (PDP), was questioned in this case on March 25 in Srinagar.

After her five-hour-long questioning that day, Mufti had told reporters that central agencies like the NIA, CBI and the ED were being "misused" to silence the opposition.

A PDP spokesperson said the latest summons is "part of the political vendetta against Mehbooba Mufti and PDP".

"It is an attempt to stop her from giving voice to the sentiments of the people in which they have failed miserably." Nazir is the wife of former J&amp;K CM Mufti Mohammad Sayeed.

The criminal case filed under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) is linked to the recovery of at least two diaries by the ED, after raids on an alleged associate of Mufti, in which some purported payments made from the CM's discretionary fund were made in alleged contravention of rules.

These funds are alleged to have been diverted during the tenure of Mufti as the CM of the erstwhile state.

A few lakh of rupees from these funds are alleged to have been transferred into the account of Nazir and some others about which the ED wants to question her.

The J&amp;K Police CID had recently rejected the passport applications of Nazir and Mufti following adverse police reports against the mother and the daughter.

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has summoned the mother of former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Mehbooba Mufti for questioning in a money laundering case, officials said on Thursday.

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has summoned the mother of former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Mehbooba Mufti for questioning in a money laundering case, officials said on Thursday. They said Gulshan Nazir, in her seventies, has been asked to appear before the central probe agency at its office in Srinagar on April 15. Mufti, 61, also the president of the People's Democratic Party (PDP), was questioned in this case on March 25 in Srinagar. After her five-hour-long questioning that day, Mufti had told reporters that central agencies like the NIA, CBI and the ED were being "misused" to silence the opposition. A PDP spokesperson said the latest summons is "part of the political vendetta against Mehbooba Mufti and PDP". "It is an attempt to stop her from giving voice to the sentiments of the people in which they have failed miserably." Nazir is the wife of former J&K CM Mufti Mohammad Sayeed. The criminal case filed under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) is linked to the recovery of at least two diaries by the ED, after raids on an alleged associate of Mufti, in which some purported payments made from the CM's discretionary fund were made in alleged contravention of rules. These funds are alleged to have been diverted during the tenure of Mufti as the CM of the erstwhile state. A few lakh of rupees from these funds are alleged to have been transferred into the account of Nazir and some others about which the ED wants to question her. The J&K Police CID had recently rejected the passport applications of Nazir and Mufti following adverse police reports against the mother and the daughter.

Enforcement Directorate summons Mehbooba Mufti's mother in money laundering case

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday described Seychelles President Wavel Ramkalawan &nbsp;a "son of India", highlighting his links with India.

Ramkalawan, who became the country's president last year, is of Indian origin with roots in Bihar's Gopalganj district.

During a virtual meet of the two leaders, Modi said, "Not just the people of his village Parsauni, but all Indians feel proud of his achievements. His election as president shows the faith that the people of Seychelles have in his dedication to public service."

Ramkalawan had visited India in January 2018 as part of the People of Indian Origin (PIO) Parliamentarian’s Conference and had visited his native village Parsauni. Thursday's virtual meet was the first such face-to-face interaction between the Indian PM and Ramkalawan.

Modi said&nbsp;India is committed to strengthening the maritime security of Seychelles&nbsp;and "Seychelles is central to India's vision of 'SAGAR' - 'Security and Growth for All in the Region'".

He said India is "honoured to be a partner of Seychelles in the development of its security capabilities and in meeting its infrastructural and developmental needs".

India gifted Seychelles Coast Guard a state-of-the-art Fast Patrol Vessel&nbsp;PS Zoroaster. Made in India and worth Rs 100 crore, the vessel is&nbsp;the fourth ship to be gifted by India to Seychelles.

The other vessels gifted by India include PS Topaz (in 2005), PS Constant (2014) and&nbsp;Patrol Boat Hermes (2016).

During the event, both sides inaugurated the Magistrates’ Court Building, built by Indian grant, &nbsp;10 high impact community development projects, and handed over a 1 MW solar project. The project will generate around 14 lakh Units of power annually meeting the electricity consumption of around 400 Seychellois houses all around the year.

Seychelles was the first African country to receive the 'Made in India' COVID-19 vaccines. India sent 50,000 doses of 'Made in India' vaccines to the Indian Ocean Island country.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday described Seychelles President Wavel Ramkalawan a "son of India", highlighting his links with India. Ramkalawan, who became the country's president last year, is of Indian origin with roots in Bihar's Gopalganj district.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday described Seychelles President Wavel Ramkalawan a "son of India", highlighting his links with India. Ramkalawan, who became the country's president last year, is of Indian origin with roots in Bihar's Gopalganj district. During a virtual meet of the two leaders, Modi said, "Not just the people of his village Parsauni, but all Indians feel proud of his achievements. His election as president shows the faith that the people of Seychelles have in his dedication to public service." Ramkalawan had visited India in January 2018 as part of the People of Indian Origin (PIO) Parliamentarian’s Conference and had visited his native village Parsauni. Thursday's virtual meet was the first such face-to-face interaction between the Indian PM and Ramkalawan. Modi said India is committed to strengthening the maritime security of Seychelles and "Seychelles is central to India's vision of 'SAGAR' - 'Security and Growth for All in the Region'". He said India is "honoured to be a partner of Seychelles in the development of its security capabilities and in meeting its infrastructural and developmental needs". India gifted Seychelles Coast Guard a state-of-the-art Fast Patrol Vessel PS Zoroaster. Made in India and worth Rs 100 crore, the vessel is the fourth ship to be gifted by India to Seychelles. The other vessels gifted by India include PS Topaz (in 2005), PS Constant (2014) and Patrol Boat Hermes (2016). During the event, both sides inaugurated the Magistrates’ Court Building, built by Indian grant, 10 high impact community development projects, and handed over a 1 MW solar project. The project will generate around 14 lakh Units of power annually meeting the electricity consumption of around 400 Seychellois houses all around the year. Seychelles was the first African country to receive the 'Made in India' COVID-19 vaccines. India sent 50,000 doses of 'Made in India' vaccines to the Indian Ocean Island country.

Seychelles President Ramkalawan 'son of India': Indian PM Modi

India's Ministry of external affairs has dismissed media reports quoting Taiwan Foreign Minister&nbsp;Joseph Wu that Taipei's intervention led to Paraguay getting vaccines from India.

In response to a question, MEA spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said, "&nbsp;I would like to confirm that no third party was involved in" New Delhi sending vaccines to the south American country.&nbsp;

On March 26, India sent 100,000 doses of India-made Covid vaccines to the South American country. This came in the backdrop of a request from&nbsp;Paraguay during a telephonic conversation between its foreign minister and India's External Affairs Minister Dr&nbsp;S Jaishankar. Earlier this year, India announced that it will open its embassy in the country.&nbsp;

Media reports quoting Taiwan's foreign minister had said that its intervention and working together with "like-minded countries" led to Paraguay getting vaccines.

Paraguay has ties with Taiwan and doesn't recognise China, which considers Taiwan its breakaway territory. Paraguay is the largest country&nbsp;in terms of size to recognise Taiwan.

Taipei, keen to help its ally reached out to New Delhi, the foreign minister had indicated.

India's Ministry of external affairs has dismissed media reports quoting Taiwan Foreign Minister Joseph Wu that Taipei's intervention led to Paraguay getting vaccines from India.

India's Ministry of external affairs has dismissed media reports quoting Taiwan Foreign Minister Joseph Wu that Taipei's intervention led to Paraguay getting vaccines from India. In response to a question, MEA spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said, " I would like to confirm that no third party was involved in" New Delhi sending vaccines to the south American country. On March 26, India sent 100,000 doses of India-made Covid vaccines to the South American country. This came in the backdrop of a request from Paraguay during a telephonic conversation between its foreign minister and India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar. Earlier this year, India announced that it will open its embassy in the country. Media reports quoting Taiwan's foreign minister had said that its intervention and working together with "like-minded countries" led to Paraguay getting vaccines. Paraguay has ties with Taiwan and doesn't recognise China, which considers Taiwan its breakaway territory. Paraguay is the largest country in terms of size to recognise Taiwan. Taipei, keen to help its ally reached out to New Delhi, the foreign minister had indicated.

No third party involved, says India on sending vaccines to Paraguay

The Serum Institute of India has fully refunded South Africa for the 500,000 doses of the&nbsp;COVID-19&nbsp;vaccine, which were not delivered to the country after it decided not to use the vaccine because it was not effective against a new variant of the virus.

A million doses from the institute, which had already been delivered, have been sold on to other countries in the African Union.

“Treasury has confirmed that the Serum Institute of India has fully refunded us for the remaining 500,000 doses that had not been delivered to South Africa and the money is already in our bank account,” Health Minister Zweli Mkhize said at a televised media briefing on Thursday.

“I want to clarify this quite clearly, as this now closes the matter of the AstraZeneca vaccine and also we close it without incurring any fruitless and wasteful expenditure,” he said.

Mkhize said that there was a huge concern among South Africans that these vaccines would now be wasted.

“But we want to indicate that all of the AstraZeneca vaccines have been salvaged,” he said.

“The one million doses that we have received have been sold to the African Union platform and have been distributed to many African countries, who have been able now to have access to these vaccines,” Mkhize said.

The minister explained why other states in Africa could use the 500,000 doses of the vaccine, which were rejected by South Africa.

“The difference between us and some of these countries is that they actually don’t have the same variant as what we have got and therefore they also don’t have evidence in their countries that the AstraZeneca would be a problem.

“So, in those countries we go by the WHO guidelines that said it could be used, even if there are other variants in other countries,” he said.

Mkhize said South Africa would continue to support AstraZeneca’s efforts and would deal with them again when they could show that they had developed a vaccine with efficacy against the new variant in South Africa.

He also outlined plans for the vaccine rollout in South Africa from other suppliers.

“We have now secured 51 million doses of vaccines with the agreements that have been signed – 31 million from Johnson and Johnson, which is a one-dose vaccine; and 20 million from Pfizer, which is a two-dose vaccine.

“This means that we can now move forward with confidence as we finalise our plans for our mass rollout campaign, which is due to officially begin at the end of phase one on May 17,” he said.

South Africa started the first phase by vaccinating its healthcare workers. The second phase of six months will target the elderly, people with comorbidities, and workers in essential services, with the rest of the population following in the third phase.

“If we didn’t have this debacle with the AstraZeneca vaccines, we would have been able to move faster, as we have indicated to the public,” Mkhize said as he expressed hope that South Africa would achieve herd immunity against COVID-19 within a year.

The Serum Institute of India has fully refunded South Africa for the 500,000 doses of the COVID-19 vaccine, which were not delivered to the country after it decided not to use the vaccine because it was not effective against a new variant of the virus.

The Serum Institute of India has fully refunded South Africa for the 500,000 doses of the COVID-19 vaccine, which were not delivered to the country after it decided not to use the vaccine because it was not effective against a new variant of the virus. A million doses from the institute, which had already been delivered, have been sold on to other countries in the African Union. “Treasury has confirmed that the Serum Institute of India has fully refunded us for the remaining 500,000 doses that had not been delivered to South Africa and the money is already in our bank account,” Health Minister Zweli Mkhize said at a televised media briefing on Thursday. “I want to clarify this quite clearly, as this now closes the matter of the AstraZeneca vaccine and also we close it without incurring any fruitless and wasteful expenditure,” he said. Mkhize said that there was a huge concern among South Africans that these vaccines would now be wasted. “But we want to indicate that all of the AstraZeneca vaccines have been salvaged,” he said. “The one million doses that we have received have been sold to the African Union platform and have been distributed to many African countries, who have been able now to have access to these vaccines,” Mkhize said. The minister explained why other states in Africa could use the 500,000 doses of the vaccine, which were rejected by South Africa. “The difference between us and some of these countries is that they actually don’t have the same variant as what we have got and therefore they also don’t have evidence in their countries that the AstraZeneca would be a problem. “So, in those countries we go by the WHO guidelines that said it could be used, even if there are other variants in other countries,” he said. Mkhize said South Africa would continue to support AstraZeneca’s efforts and would deal with them again when they could show that they had developed a vaccine with efficacy against the new variant in South Africa. He also outlined plans for the vaccine rollout in South Africa from other suppliers. “We have now secured 51 million doses of vaccines with the agreements that have been signed – 31 million from Johnson and Johnson, which is a one-dose vaccine; and 20 million from Pfizer, which is a two-dose vaccine. “This means that we can now move forward with confidence as we finalise our plans for our mass rollout campaign, which is due to officially begin at the end of phase one on May 17,” he said. South Africa started the first phase by vaccinating its healthcare workers. The second phase of six months will target the elderly, people with comorbidities, and workers in essential services, with the rest of the population following in the third phase. “If we didn’t have this debacle with the AstraZeneca vaccines, we would have been able to move faster, as we have indicated to the public,” Mkhize said as he expressed hope that South Africa would achieve herd immunity against COVID-19 within a year.

Serum Institute of India refunds South Africa for undelivered COVID-19 vaccines

Johnson &amp; Johnson is in talks with&nbsp;India's government to begin a clinical trial of its single-dose COVID-19 vaccine in the country, the company said on Friday.

The US&nbsp;drugs and healthcare giant's vaccine is currently approved for use in the United States, the European Union and other nations including Thailand and South Africa.

The news comes as some parts of&nbsp;India&nbsp;face a shortage of vaccine supplies just as the country of 1.3 billion battles a second wave of COVID-19 infections.&nbsp;India's government, however, has said there is no shortage of shots.

J&amp;J had sent a letter to&nbsp;India's Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) saying it would "very shortly apply for permission to conduct clinical bridging trials in&nbsp;India".&nbsp;

"We are in discussions with the (government) with the objective of starting a bridging clinical study of our Janssen COVID-19 vaccine candidate in&nbsp;India, subject to local regulatory approvals," a local J&amp;J representative said via email.

A bridging study tests the safety and immunogenicity of a vaccine, and&nbsp;India&nbsp;has indicated that any vaccine maker must conduct such a trial for a shot to be considered for its immunisation programme.

Separately, J&amp;J has a deal with&nbsp;Indian firm Biological E Ltd to contract-manufacture its vaccine.

India&nbsp;currently has two approved vaccines in use, one developed by Oxford University and AstraZeneca and the other, a shot from local player Bharat Biotech.

There are other vaccine candidates in trials in&nbsp;India&nbsp;including Russia's Sputnik-V and a shot developed by Cadila Healthcare Ltd.

COVID-19 infections in&nbsp;India&nbsp;rose by a record number for a third straight day on Friday, increasing by more than 130,000, while daily deaths hit their highest in five months.

Johnson & Johnson is in talks with India's government to begin a clinical trial of its single-dose COVID-19 vaccine in the country, the company said on Friday. The US drugs and healthcare giant's vaccine is currently approved for use in the United States, the European Union and other nations including Thailand and South Africa.

Johnson & Johnson is in talks with India's government to begin a clinical trial of its single-dose COVID-19 vaccine in the country, the company said on Friday. The US drugs and healthcare giant's vaccine is currently approved for use in the United States, the European Union and other nations including Thailand and South Africa. The news comes as some parts of India face a shortage of vaccine supplies just as the country of 1.3 billion battles a second wave of COVID-19 infections. India's government, however, has said there is no shortage of shots. J&J had sent a letter to India's Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) saying it would "very shortly apply for permission to conduct clinical bridging trials in India". "We are in discussions with the (government) with the objective of starting a bridging clinical study of our Janssen COVID-19 vaccine candidate in India, subject to local regulatory approvals," a local J&J representative said via email. A bridging study tests the safety and immunogenicity of a vaccine, and India has indicated that any vaccine maker must conduct such a trial for a shot to be considered for its immunisation programme. Separately, J&J has a deal with Indian firm Biological E Ltd to contract-manufacture its vaccine. India currently has two approved vaccines in use, one developed by Oxford University and AstraZeneca and the other, a shot from local player Bharat Biotech. There are other vaccine candidates in trials in India including Russia's Sputnik-V and a shot developed by Cadila Healthcare Ltd. COVID-19 infections in India rose by a record number for a third straight day on Friday, increasing by more than 130,000, while daily deaths hit their highest in five months.

J&J says in talks with Indian government for trial of single-dose vaccine

In a development that has raised many eyebrows, the US Navy&nbsp;ship USS John Paul Jones, which is part of the US Seventh Fleet, has violated the exclusive economic zones (EEZs) of India and Maldives by its "freedom of navigation operation (“FONOP”).

Under the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS)&nbsp;EEZ is an area 200 nautical miles from the coast line of any country.

Under the UNCLOS, countries have sovereign rights such as the right to use resources in that area.

A US Navy release said the ship "asserted navigational rights and freedoms...inside India’s exclusive economic zone, without requesting India’s prior consent, consistent with international law."

The release specifically&nbsp;mentioned that the ship passed 130 nautical miles west of the Lakshadweep Islands and by its freedom of navigation operation, the US upheld the "rights, freedoms, and lawful uses of the sea recognised in international law by challenging India’s excessive maritime claims."

Under Indian domestic laws, prior consent for military exercises or maneuvres in the exclusive economic zone or continental shelf is required, and by current action, the US has violated it.

While the US is not violative of international laws under UNCLOS, which doesn't give full rights over EEZ, interestingly Washington is not a signatory to UNCLOS. It is in fact the only permanent member of United Nations Security Council (UNSC) which is a non-party to it.&nbsp;

The development comes even as US climate envoy John Kerry was in India, with the release of US Navy being issued on 7th April.

No reaction has come from India so far, with WION even reaching out to the Pentagon for a reaction. What is perplexing is that US-India ties have been marked by much warmth, both being part of Quad and backers of Indo-Pacific vision.

In fact, days from now, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be participating in the climate virtual summit being hosted by US President Joe Biden.&nbsp;

A similar statement was issued for Maldives, with the US saying, "USS John Paul Jones asserted navigational rights and freedoms in the vicinity of the Republic of the Maldives" by conducting "innocent passage through its territorial sea and normal operations within its exclusive economic zone without requesting prior permission".

The US Navy release claimed, "This freedom of navigation operation (“FONOP”) upheld the rights, freedoms, and lawful uses of the sea recognised in international law by challenging Maldives’ excessive maritime claims."

The Maldives requires prior permission for foreign warships to enter its territorial sea, and prior permission for all foreign vessels to enter its exclusive economic zone.&nbsp;

It is interesting to know that the US Seventh Fleet based out of Japan was the same fleet whose carrier task force had entered the Bay of Bengal during the Liberation War of Bangladesh of 1971.

The aim was to intimidate India and support Pakistan but could not achieve much as the USSR had dispatched its 10th Operative Battle Group of its Pacific Fleet. The fleet had to abort its mission.

In a development that has raised many eyebrows, the US Navy ship USS John Paul Jones, which is part of the US Seventh Fleet, has violated the exclusive economic zones (EEZs) of India and Maldives by its "freedom of navigation operation (“FONOP”).

In a development that has raised many eyebrows, the US Navy ship USS John Paul Jones, which is part of the US Seventh Fleet, has violated the exclusive economic zones (EEZs) of India and Maldives by its "freedom of navigation operation (“FONOP”). Under the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) EEZ is an area 200 nautical miles from the coast line of any country. Under the UNCLOS, countries have sovereign rights such as the right to use resources in that area. A US Navy release said the ship "asserted navigational rights and freedoms...inside India’s exclusive economic zone, without requesting India’s prior consent, consistent with international law." The release specifically mentioned that the ship passed 130 nautical miles west of the Lakshadweep Islands and by its freedom of navigation operation, the US upheld the "rights, freedoms, and lawful uses of the sea recognised in international law by challenging India’s excessive maritime claims." Under Indian domestic laws, prior consent for military exercises or maneuvres in the exclusive economic zone or continental shelf is required, and by current action, the US has violated it. While the US is not violative of international laws under UNCLOS, which doesn't give full rights over EEZ, interestingly Washington is not a signatory to UNCLOS. It is in fact the only permanent member of United Nations Security Council (UNSC) which is a non-party to it. The development comes even as US climate envoy John Kerry was in India, with the release of US Navy being issued on 7th April. No reaction has come from India so far, with WION even reaching out to the Pentagon for a reaction. What is perplexing is that US-India ties have been marked by much warmth, both being part of Quad and backers of Indo-Pacific vision. In fact, days from now, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be participating in the climate virtual summit being hosted by US President Joe Biden. A similar statement was issued for Maldives, with the US saying, "USS John Paul Jones asserted navigational rights and freedoms in the vicinity of the Republic of the Maldives" by conducting "innocent passage through its territorial sea and normal operations within its exclusive economic zone without requesting prior permission". The US Navy release claimed, "This freedom of navigation operation (“FONOP”) upheld the rights, freedoms, and lawful uses of the sea recognised in international law by challenging Maldives’ excessive maritime claims." The Maldives requires prior permission for foreign warships to enter its territorial sea, and prior permission for all foreign vessels to enter its exclusive economic zone. It is interesting to know that the US Seventh Fleet based out of Japan was the same fleet whose carrier task force had entered the Bay of Bengal during the Liberation War of Bangladesh of 1971. The aim was to intimidate India and support Pakistan but could not achieve much as the USSR had dispatched its 10th Operative Battle Group of its Pacific Fleet. The fleet had to abort its mission.

US Navy violates exclusive economic zones of India, Maldives

India has finished construction of the world's highest rail bridge arch. Watch the video to know more.

India completes world's highest rail bridge arch

Indian armed forces have completely wiped out the dangerous terrorist group Ansar Gazwat-ul-Hind (AGuH) in two different operations in the Shopian and Pulwama districts of South Kashmir in the last 24 hours.

The encounter at Shopian started on Thursday evening and ended on Friday with the killing of five terrorists. Two terrorists, including the Chief of AGuH Imtiyaz Shah, were killed in a second operation at Tral in Pulwama district on Friday.

Police sources said both the operations at Shopian and Tral in South Kashmir are over now.

A large number of arms and ammunition, including seven AK rifles and two pistols, have been recovered from the slain terrorists.

"Both the ongoing operations at Shopian and Tral are over. Five terrorists in first and two in the second operation neutralised. Both the terrorist groups are from the same outfit.

"Seven AK and two pistols recovered.

"With these two encounters and elimination of seven terrorists, the terrorist group AGH (Ansar Gazwat-ul-Hind) fully wiped out once again," Dilbag Singh, Director General of Police, J&amp;K said

(With inputs from agencies).

Indian armed forces have completely wiped out the dangerous terrorist group Ansar Gazwat-ul-Hind (AGuH) in two different operations in the Shopian and Pulwama districts of South Kashmir in the last 24 hours.

Indian armed forces have completely wiped out the dangerous terrorist group Ansar Gazwat-ul-Hind (AGuH) in two different operations in the Shopian and Pulwama districts of South Kashmir in the last 24 hours. The encounter at Shopian started on Thursday evening and ended on Friday with the killing of five terrorists. Two terrorists, including the Chief of AGuH Imtiyaz Shah, were killed in a second operation at Tral in Pulwama district on Friday. Police sources said both the operations at Shopian and Tral in South Kashmir are over now. A large number of arms and ammunition, including seven AK rifles and two pistols, have been recovered from the slain terrorists. "Both the ongoing operations at Shopian and Tral are over. Five terrorists in first and two in the second operation neutralised. Both the terrorist groups are from the same outfit. "Seven AK and two pistols recovered. "With these two encounters and elimination of seven terrorists, the terrorist group AGH (Ansar Gazwat-ul-Hind) fully wiped out once again," Dilbag Singh, Director General of Police, J&K said (With inputs from agencies).

Seven terrorists killed by security forces, AGuH terror outfit wiped out in J&K 

India and the US can "creatively collaborate" on a 2030 agenda for clean and green technologies in the service of the planet, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Wednesday after US Special Presidential Envoy for climate John Kerry called on him.

An official statement said Modi noted that India is committed to meeting its nationally determined contributions under the Paris agreement and that it was among the few countries on track to meet these commitments.

"Had an excellent discussion with US Special Presidential Envoy for Climate @JohnKerry. His passion and commitment to expedite climate action are commendable," Modi tweeted.

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Had an excellent discussion with US Special Presidential Envoy for Climate <a href="https://twitter.com/JohnKerry?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JohnKerry</a>. His passion and commitment to expedite climate action are commendable. <a href="https://t.co/HzCbigUfKt">pic.twitter.com/HzCbigUfKt</a>
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"With our complementary strengths, India and the US can creatively collaborate on a 2030 agenda for clean and green technologies in the service of the planet. @JohnKerry," he said in another tweet.

The statement said Kerry noted that the US would support India's climate plans by facilitating affordable access to green technologies and requisite finance.

"The prime minister agreed that cooperation between India and the United States particularly on financing innovation and faster deployment of green technologies would have a positive demonstration effect on other countries," it said.

It also said Kerry conveyed greetings of President Joe Biden to the prime minister.

"The prime minister fondly recalled his recent interactions with President Biden, including during the Quad leaders' summit, and requested Kerry to convey his best wishes to President Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris," it said.

It said Kerry briefed Modi on his fruitful and productive discussions over the last two days in India.

"He positively noted India's Climate Actions including its ambitious renewable energy plans. He briefed the prime minister about the upcoming leaders' summit on climate scheduled for April 22-23," according to the statement.

External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said the discussions focused on the climate leaders' summit as well as issues in the context of the upcoming UN climate change conference (COP26) and UN framework convention on climate change (UNFCC). Climate change has been a major area of focus for President Biden.

After taking charge as the US president, Biden on January 20 announced the return of the US to the Paris climate accord.

President Biden has invited 40 world leaders including Modi to the virtual summit on the climate crisis.

Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin were among the key leaders invited to the two-day conference.

India and the US can "creatively collaborate" on a 2030 agenda for clean and green technologies in the service of the planet, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Wednesday after US Special Presidential Envoy for climate John Kerry called on him.

India and the US can "creatively collaborate" on a 2030 agenda for clean and green technologies in the service of the planet, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Wednesday after US Special Presidential Envoy for climate John Kerry called on him. An official statement said Modi noted that India is committed to meeting its nationally determined contributions under the Paris agreement and that it was among the few countries on track to meet these commitments. "Had an excellent discussion with US Special Presidential Envoy for Climate @JohnKerry. His passion and commitment to expedite climate action are commendable," Modi tweeted. Had an excellent discussion with US Special Presidential Envoy for Climate @JohnKerry. His passion and commitment to expedite climate action are commendable. pic.twitter.com/HzCbigUfKt — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 7, 2021 × "With our complementary strengths, India and the US can creatively collaborate on a 2030 agenda for clean and green technologies in the service of the planet. @JohnKerry," he said in another tweet. The statement said Kerry noted that the US would support India's climate plans by facilitating affordable access to green technologies and requisite finance. "The prime minister agreed that cooperation between India and the United States particularly on financing innovation and faster deployment of green technologies would have a positive demonstration effect on other countries," it said. It also said Kerry conveyed greetings of President Joe Biden to the prime minister. "The prime minister fondly recalled his recent interactions with President Biden, including during the Quad leaders' summit, and requested Kerry to convey his best wishes to President Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris," it said. It said Kerry briefed Modi on his fruitful and productive discussions over the last two days in India. "He positively noted India's Climate Actions including its ambitious renewable energy plans. He briefed the prime minister about the upcoming leaders' summit on climate scheduled for April 22-23," according to the statement. External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said the discussions focused on the climate leaders' summit as well as issues in the context of the upcoming UN climate change conference (COP26) and UN framework convention on climate change (UNFCC). Climate change has been a major area of focus for President Biden. After taking charge as the US president, Biden on January 20 announced the return of the US to the Paris climate accord. President Biden has invited 40 world leaders including Modi to the virtual summit on the climate crisis. Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin were among the key leaders invited to the two-day conference.

India, US can 'creatively collaborate' on agenda for clean and green technologies: PM Modi

India will be gifting a Fast Patrol Vessel worth Rs 100 crore to Seychelles Coast Guard at the virtual event on Thursday that will be presided over by Indian Prime minister Narendra Modi and the new President of Seychelles Wavel Ramkalawan.&nbsp;

The 48.9 m Fast Patrol Vessel, built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders &amp; Engineering will be used for multi-purpose operations, such as patrolling, anti-smuggling, anti-poaching, and search and rescue (SAR).

The vessel has already been delivered to Seychelles on March 16th and will be officially handed over to Seychelles Coast Guard during the virtual event that will take place at 5 pm IST.&nbsp;

The Fast Patrol Vessel will be the fourth ship to be gifted by India to Seychelles and is named PS Zoroaster. The other vessels gifted by India include PS Topaz (2005), PS Constant (2014), Patrol Boat Hermes (2016).

Interestingly, over 50% of Seychelles’ maritime and air assets and around 70% of capacity development in terms of training, exercise, and human resource expertise are provided by India.&nbsp;

The development comes even as the Indian Ocean has seen increased threats such as privacy, illegal fishing, or Chinese presence.

India will also hand over a 1 MW Solar Power Plant at Romainville Island of Seychelles. The plant has been completed as part of the ‘Solar photovoltaic Democratization Project’ being implemented in Seychelles by the Government of India under grant assistance.&nbsp;

The 1 MW solar plant project will generate around 14 lakh units of power annually meeting the electricity consumption of around 400 Seychellois houses all around the year.

A release from India's ministry of external affairs said, " Seychelles occupies a central place in the Prime Minister’s vision of ‘SAGAR’ - ‘Security and Growth for All in the Region’.&nbsp;

The inauguration of these key projects demonstrates India’s privileged and time-tested role as a reliable partner of Seychelles for meeting its infrastructural, developmental and security requirements and is a testimony to the deep and friendly ties between the people of India and Seychelles."

Other than handing over of patrol boat and solar power plant, both sides will jointly inaugurate the new Magistrates’ Court Building in Seychelles, 10 High Impact Community Development Projects.&nbsp;

The new Magistrates’ Court Building in the capital city Victoria, is India’s first major civil infrastructure project in Seychelles built with grant assistance.&nbsp;

The building brings together Magistrate courts spread over different locations in Mahé into a single building. It houses eight courtrooms spread over three floors, waiting for areas for the public and parking space for court users, multi-functional conference rooms, and other such facilities.

Thursday's virtual event will be the first interaction of Prime Minister Modi with President Wavel Ramkalawan of Seychelles. President Wavel, who is of Indian origin with ancestral roots in the Gopalganj district of Bihar came to power in October 2020. He had visited India in January 2018 as a part of the PIO Parliamentarian’s Conference and had visited his native village ‘Parsauni’.

India has been increasing its engagement with Seychelles, with EAM Jaishanker visiting the country in November 2020, becoming the first foreign minister to visit the country after Ramkalawan took charge.&nbsp;

Indian PM Modi had visited the country in 2015, which was the first Prime Ministerial visit from India in 33 years.

India will be gifting a Fast Patrol Vessel worth Rs 100 crore to Seychelles Coast Guard at the virtual event on Thursday that will be presided over by Indian Prime minister Narendra Modi and the new President of Seychelles Wavel Ramkalawan.

India will be gifting a Fast Patrol Vessel worth Rs 100 crore to Seychelles Coast Guard at the virtual event on Thursday that will be presided over by Indian Prime minister Narendra Modi and the new President of Seychelles Wavel Ramkalawan. The 48.9 m Fast Patrol Vessel, built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineering will be used for multi-purpose operations, such as patrolling, anti-smuggling, anti-poaching, and search and rescue (SAR). The vessel has already been delivered to Seychelles on March 16th and will be officially handed over to Seychelles Coast Guard during the virtual event that will take place at 5 pm IST. The Fast Patrol Vessel will be the fourth ship to be gifted by India to Seychelles and is named PS Zoroaster. The other vessels gifted by India include PS Topaz (2005), PS Constant (2014), Patrol Boat Hermes (2016). Interestingly, over 50% of Seychelles’ maritime and air assets and around 70% of capacity development in terms of training, exercise, and human resource expertise are provided by India. The development comes even as the Indian Ocean has seen increased threats such as privacy, illegal fishing, or Chinese presence. India will also hand over a 1 MW Solar Power Plant at Romainville Island of Seychelles. The plant has been completed as part of the ‘Solar photovoltaic Democratization Project’ being implemented in Seychelles by the Government of India under grant assistance. The 1 MW solar plant project will generate around 14 lakh units of power annually meeting the electricity consumption of around 400 Seychellois houses all around the year. A release from India's ministry of external affairs said, " Seychelles occupies a central place in the Prime Minister’s vision of ‘SAGAR’ - ‘Security and Growth for All in the Region’. The inauguration of these key projects demonstrates India’s privileged and time-tested role as a reliable partner of Seychelles for meeting its infrastructural, developmental and security requirements and is a testimony to the deep and friendly ties between the people of India and Seychelles." Other than handing over of patrol boat and solar power plant, both sides will jointly inaugurate the new Magistrates’ Court Building in Seychelles, 10 High Impact Community Development Projects. The new Magistrates’ Court Building in the capital city Victoria, is India’s first major civil infrastructure project in Seychelles built with grant assistance. The building brings together Magistrate courts spread over different locations in Mahé into a single building. It houses eight courtrooms spread over three floors, waiting for areas for the public and parking space for court users, multi-functional conference rooms, and other such facilities. Thursday's virtual event will be the first interaction of Prime Minister Modi with President Wavel Ramkalawan of Seychelles. President Wavel, who is of Indian origin with ancestral roots in the Gopalganj district of Bihar came to power in October 2020. He had visited India in January 2018 as a part of the PIO Parliamentarian’s Conference and had visited his native village ‘Parsauni’. India has been increasing its engagement with Seychelles, with EAM Jaishanker visiting the country in November 2020, becoming the first foreign minister to visit the country after Ramkalawan took charge. Indian PM Modi had visited the country in 2015, which was the first Prime Ministerial visit from India in 33 years.

India to gift patrol vessel worth Rs 100 cr to Seychelles at Modi-Ramkalawan virtual meet

Uzbekistan has invited Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan and leaders in Central Asia for an international connectivity summit from 15th to 16th July that will take place in the Uzbek capital Tashkent.

The summit named "Central Asia and South Asia regional connectivity: Challenges and opportunities" is being organised as an initiative of Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev. It will have three common themes of discussion--economic, cultural, security--connectivity and aims to refresh historical ties.&nbsp;&nbsp;Leaders and representatives of Russia, Iran, China, the US, and the European Union will also be invited to the summit.

The invitation to India was extended during Uzbek Foreign Minister Abdulaziz Kamilov's New Delhi visit in late February. Kamilov has already visited the capitals of the other four Central Asian countries to extend the invitation. In March, Kamilov had visited Islamabad to hand over the invitation to Khan.

The summit will see a gathering of leaders from South and Central Asia and aims to increase connectivity between the two regions. This is the first such initiative of this kind from Uzbekistan, which is a doubly landlocked country. Uzbekistan, along with Liechtenstein are the only two doubly landlocked countries in the world.

Uzbekistan has been keen on using the India-built Chabahar port in Iran. Both countries formed the group with Iran for increasing engagement on the port. Afghanistan will be invited for the next meet of the grouping. During the December virtual summit between Indian PM Modi and Uzbek President&nbsp; Mirziyoyev, the latter announced the intention to join International North-South Transport Corridor that connects Mumbai to Moscow.

Uzbekistan is the only Central Asian country with which India has held a virtual summit so far. In strategic space and defence, both sides are increasing engagement. India and Uzbekistan held military exercises Dustlik-2 from 9th to 21st March at Chaubatia, Uttarakhand. On Afghanistan as well, both sides hold regular exchanges.

With other countries in the region, Afghanistan is increasing engagement on connectivity, especially with air corridors and the Chabahar port project backed by New Delhi. A trans-Afghan railway is being planned, with Pakistan, Uzbekistan, and Afghanistan being part of it.

Uzbekistan has invited Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan and leaders in Central Asia for an international connectivity summit from 15th to 16th July that will take place in the Uzbek capital Tashkent.

Uzbekistan has invited Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan and leaders in Central Asia for an international connectivity summit from 15th to 16th July that will take place in the Uzbek capital Tashkent. The summit named "Central Asia and South Asia regional connectivity: Challenges and opportunities" is being organised as an initiative of Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev. It will have three common themes of discussion--economic, cultural, security--connectivity and aims to refresh historical ties. Leaders and representatives of Russia, Iran, China, the US, and the European Union will also be invited to the summit. The invitation to India was extended during Uzbek Foreign Minister Abdulaziz Kamilov's New Delhi visit in late February. Kamilov has already visited the capitals of the other four Central Asian countries to extend the invitation. In March, Kamilov had visited Islamabad to hand over the invitation to Khan. The summit will see a gathering of leaders from South and Central Asia and aims to increase connectivity between the two regions. This is the first such initiative of this kind from Uzbekistan, which is a doubly landlocked country. Uzbekistan, along with Liechtenstein are the only two doubly landlocked countries in the world. Uzbekistan has been keen on using the India-built Chabahar port in Iran. Both countries formed the group with Iran for increasing engagement on the port. Afghanistan will be invited for the next meet of the grouping. During the December virtual summit between Indian PM Modi and Uzbek President Mirziyoyev, the latter announced the intention to join International North-South Transport Corridor that connects Mumbai to Moscow. Uzbekistan is the only Central Asian country with which India has held a virtual summit so far. In strategic space and defence, both sides are increasing engagement. India and Uzbekistan held military exercises Dustlik-2 from 9th to 21st March at Chaubatia, Uttarakhand. On Afghanistan as well, both sides hold regular exchanges. With other countries in the region, Afghanistan is increasing engagement on connectivity, especially with air corridors and the Chabahar port project backed by New Delhi. A trans-Afghan railway is being planned, with Pakistan, Uzbekistan, and Afghanistan being part of it.

Uzbekistan invites Indian PM Modi, Pak PM Khan, other leaders for connectivity summit

New Zealand on Thursday temporarily suspended entry for all travellers from India following a surge in COVID-19 cases arriving from there, local media reported.

The ban comes after it was reported that 17 of the 23 new COVID-19 cases in managed isolation announced on Thursday had arrived from India.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/night-curfew-in-lucknow-kanpur-varanasi-as-covid-cases-surge-376010" hreflang="en">Night curfew in Lucknow, Kanpur, Varanasi as Covid cases surge</a>

The ban will commence on Sunday and will remain in place until April 28, New Zealand Herald reported. The island nation has reported 2,531 cases so far. While arrivals from India had triggered the risk assessment, New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said the Government would be looking at risks posed by other COVID-19 hot spot countries.

"This is not a permanent arrangement but rather a temporary measure," she said.

The temporary hold would also help reduce the risk that travellers themselves faced, the Prime Minister added.

India has been witnessing a sudden increase in COVID-19 cases. The country has so far reported over 1.28 crore cases. The active COVID-19 caseload of the country reached more than 8,43,000 and the daily positivity rate is on a steady rise.&nbsp;

New Zealand on Thursday temporarily suspended entry for all travellers from India following a surge in COVID-19 cases arriving from there, local media reported. The ban comes after it was reported that 17 of the 23 new COVID-19 cases in managed isolation announced on Thursday had arrived from India.

New Zealand on Thursday temporarily suspended entry for all travellers from India following a surge in COVID-19 cases arriving from there, local media reported. The ban comes after it was reported that 17 of the 23 new COVID-19 cases in managed isolation announced on Thursday had arrived from India. Also read | Night curfew in Lucknow, Kanpur, Varanasi as Covid cases surge The ban will commence on Sunday and will remain in place until April 28, New Zealand Herald reported. The island nation has reported 2,531 cases so far. While arrivals from India had triggered the risk assessment, New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said the Government would be looking at risks posed by other COVID-19 hot spot countries. "This is not a permanent arrangement but rather a temporary measure," she said. The temporary hold would also help reduce the risk that travellers themselves faced, the Prime Minister added. India has been witnessing a sudden increase in COVID-19 cases. The country has so far reported over 1.28 crore cases. The active COVID-19 caseload of the country reached more than 8,43,000 and the daily positivity rate is on a steady rise.

New Zealand suspends entry for travellers from India amid COVID-19 spike

The Yogi Adityanath government in Uttar Pradesh has decided to impose a night curfew in Lucknow, Kanpur and Varanasi from Thursday.

The curfew will come into effect on April 8 and will remain effective till April 16. The night curfew will be enforced from 10 pm to 6 am.

According to an order issued by Lucknow district magistrate Abhishek Prakash, the night curfew will be applicable only in Lucknow Municipal Corporation area, and not in rural Lucknow. The supply of fruits, vegetables, milk, LPG, petrol-diesel and medicine will continue.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-reports-over-100000-fresh-coronavirus-cases-for-second-time-in-a-week-375811" hreflang="en">India reports over 100,000 fresh coronavirus cases for second time in a week</a>

Government and semi-government personnel working night shifts and private sector personnel engaged in essential goods services will be exempted.

The restrictions will not be applicable for medical, nursing and para medical institutions, he said.

People coming and going at railway station, bus stations, and airport will be able to travel by showing their ticket. No restrictions have been imposed on the movement of freight trains.

Lucknow has reported 1,333 new Covid cases in the past 24 hours while 6,023 new Covid cases have been recorded in the state.

The Chief Minister, in a late-night meeting on Wednesday, has also authorised district magistrates in Uttar Pradesh to impose night curfew in their respective areas if faced with more than 500 Covid-19 cases.

All government, non-government or privately run schools, colleges and educational institutes and coaching institutes have been closed in Lucknow.

Examinations, theoretical and practical, will be conducted in recognized educational institutions in strict compliance with Covid-19 protocol, the district magistrate added.

Night curfew will also be imposed in Varanasi from April 8 and will continue from 9 p.m. to 6 am. All non-medical institutions will be closed.

Students will be allowed to go to educational institutions only for examinations, and a strict eye will be kept on religious and social events, as well.

The general public will not be allowed to participate in the `aarti` procession at the Ghat.

The Yogi Adityanath government in Uttar Pradesh has decided to impose a night curfew in Lucknow, Kanpur and Varanasi from Thursday. The curfew will come into effect on April 8 and will remain effective till April 16.

The Yogi Adityanath government in Uttar Pradesh has decided to impose a night curfew in Lucknow, Kanpur and Varanasi from Thursday. The curfew will come into effect on April 8 and will remain effective till April 16. The night curfew will be enforced from 10 pm to 6 am. According to an order issued by Lucknow district magistrate Abhishek Prakash, the night curfew will be applicable only in Lucknow Municipal Corporation area, and not in rural Lucknow. The supply of fruits, vegetables, milk, LPG, petrol-diesel and medicine will continue. Also read | India reports over 100,000 fresh coronavirus cases for second time in a week Government and semi-government personnel working night shifts and private sector personnel engaged in essential goods services will be exempted. The restrictions will not be applicable for medical, nursing and para medical institutions, he said. People coming and going at railway station, bus stations, and airport will be able to travel by showing their ticket. No restrictions have been imposed on the movement of freight trains. Lucknow has reported 1,333 new Covid cases in the past 24 hours while 6,023 new Covid cases have been recorded in the state. The Chief Minister, in a late-night meeting on Wednesday, has also authorised district magistrates in Uttar Pradesh to impose night curfew in their respective areas if faced with more than 500 Covid-19 cases. All government, non-government or privately run schools, colleges and educational institutes and coaching institutes have been closed in Lucknow. Examinations, theoretical and practical, will be conducted in recognized educational institutions in strict compliance with Covid-19 protocol, the district magistrate added. Night curfew will also be imposed in Varanasi from April 8 and will continue from 9 p.m. to 6 am. All non-medical institutions will be closed. Students will be allowed to go to educational institutions only for examinations, and a strict eye will be kept on religious and social events, as well. The general public will not be allowed to participate in the `aarti` procession at the Ghat.

Night curfew in Lucknow, Kanpur, Varanasi as Covid cases surge

Three terrorists were killed and two soldiers were injured in an encounter with militants in South Kashmir’s Shopian town on Thursday evening, police said.&nbsp;

A joint team of police, army and CRPF personnel launched a cordon-and-search operation in the locality following information about the presence of militants there.&nbsp;

"Three unidentified terrorists killed in the Shopian encounter. Operation is going on," the police said. 
 
Earlier on Thursday, the firefight between the terrorists and the security forces took place after a joint team of the police and the army cordoned off the area and launched a search operation on the basis of specific information about the presence of terrorists there. 
 
As the security forces zeroed in on the spot where the terrorists were hiding, they came under a heavy volume of fire that triggered the encounter. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Three terrorists were killed and two soldiers were injured in an encounter with militants in South Kashmir’s Shopian town on Thursday evening, police said. A joint team of police, army and CRPF personnel launched a cordon-and-search operation in the locality following information about the presence of militants there.

Three terrorists were killed and two soldiers were injured in an encounter with militants in South Kashmir’s Shopian town on Thursday evening, police said. A joint team of police, army and CRPF personnel launched a cordon-and-search operation in the locality following information about the presence of militants there. "Three unidentified terrorists killed in the Shopian encounter. Operation is going on," the police said. Earlier on Thursday, the firefight between the terrorists and the security forces took place after a joint team of the police and the army cordoned off the area and launched a search operation on the basis of specific information about the presence of terrorists there. As the security forces zeroed in on the spot where the terrorists were hiding, they came under a heavy volume of fire that triggered the encounter. (With inputs from agencies)

Three terrorists killed, two security personnel injured in encounter in J&K

India on Thursday voiced deep concern over terror groups, such as Da’esh and Al Nusra Front, using landmines and improvised explosive devices (IEDs) to spread terror, saying that nations affected by such war-tactic need assistance.

Addressing the UN Security Council open debate on ''Mine Action'', Secretary (West) in the Ministry of External Affairs Vikas Swarup said that the countries affected by landmines, particularly with conflict situations, require assistance.

"It is a matter of deep concern that terrorist groups, such as Da’esh, Hayat Taharir Al Sham [HTS], Al Nusra Front, have resorted to landmines and IEDs as low cost and effective options to spread terror and threaten innocent civilians," he said.

He noted that a similar trend was being witnessed in Mali, where peacekeepers have been targeted by IEDs.

Voicing concern that such usage has only increased, Swarup stressed the need to strongly condemn and take effective measures to combat this trend.

“The countries affected by landmines, particularly with conflict situations, require assistance. We need to provide assistance without politicising the issue since it is the people who suffer from this menace,” he said.

According to a concept note prepared for the meeting -- held under the Council Presidency of Vietnam --, 2019 was the fifth year in a row with high numbers of recorded casualties owing to the indiscriminate use of landmines, explosive remnants of war and improvised explosive devices.

The vast majority of recorded casualties were civilians (80 per cent), of whom 43 per cent were children.

It added that the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilisation Mission in Mali has recorded more than 350 casualties since its creation in 2013, of whom 65 were killed as a result of attacks using explosives, which have increasingly included improvised explosive devices.

India, a leading contributor to UN peacekeeping operations, has extended assistance towards international demining and rehabilitation efforts.

"We have also undertaken specialist training on Counter IED, bomb disposal and de-mining operations with numerous partner countries, including Australia, Cambodia, Indonesia and Uzbekistan," Swarup said.

He pointed out that a 12-member team of experts from India participated in a joint counter explosive threat task forces training exercise, Ardent Defender-2019 in Ontario, Canada.

About 130 personnel from 13 African states participated in exercise AFINDEX, a multinational exercise on de-mining and unexploded ordnance held in India in March 2019.

In addition to providing training in demining, India had also provided seven de-mining teams to clear landmines in the Northern part of Sri Lanka in 2010 which helped facilitate the return of internally displaced persons (IDPs) to rebuild their lives, he said.

In October 2018, the ‘India for Humanity’ initiative was launched as a part of Mahatma Gandhi’s 150th birth anniversary celebrations, with a focus on Gandhi''s philosophy of compassion and service to humanity.

Swarup told the Council meeting that under this initiative, 13 artificial limb fitment camps have been held by India in 12 countries and more than 6,500 artificial limbs have been fitted, mainly in Asia and Africa.

The limb fitment camps, which aim to provide for the physical, economic and social rehabilitation of the affected persons and help them regain their mobility and dignity, have now been extended upto March 2023.

In this context, he acknowledged the association of BMVSS Jaipur, led by Dr. D.R. Mehta, for contributing artificial limb ‘Jaipur Foot’ for thousands affected by disabilities brought by conflicts and land mines.

Swarup underscored India’s willingness to share its best practices with member states and the United Nations with respect to IED design, development, proliferation, mitigation and stand ready to contribute towards capacity building, victim assistance and victim rehabilitation.

Swarup told the meeting that India is fully committed to the Convention on Certain Conventional Weapons and is a signatory to all its five Protocols, attaching high priority to the full implementation and universalisation of Amended Protocol-II “as it strikes the right balance between humanitarian concerns and legitimate defence requirements of States, especially those with long borders.”

India has a moratorium on the export and transfer of landmines and is committed to reducing the dependence on Anti-Personnel Mines (APM’s), Swarup said, adding that India believes that the availability of militarily effective alternative technologies that are also cost-effective can help facilitate the goal of the complete elimination of APMs.

India also supports the efforts of the UN Mine Action Service (UNMAS), UN Development Programme and other agencies which have been working in conflict zones across the world. The UNMAS’s mine action has remained pivotal to the safety and security of our peacekeepers, he said.

Swarup added that India has enacted the Right of Persons with Disability Act, 2016 which addresses the concerns of persons with disabilities, including landmine survivors.&nbsp;

India on Thursday voiced deep concern over terror groups, such as Da’esh and Al Nusra Front, using landmines and improvised explosive devices (IEDs) to spread terror, saying that nations affected by such war-tactic need assistance.

India on Thursday voiced deep concern over terror groups, such as Da’esh and Al Nusra Front, using landmines and improvised explosive devices (IEDs) to spread terror, saying that nations affected by such war-tactic need assistance. Addressing the UN Security Council open debate on ''Mine Action'', Secretary (West) in the Ministry of External Affairs Vikas Swarup said that the countries affected by landmines, particularly with conflict situations, require assistance. "It is a matter of deep concern that terrorist groups, such as Da’esh, Hayat Taharir Al Sham [HTS], Al Nusra Front, have resorted to landmines and IEDs as low cost and effective options to spread terror and threaten innocent civilians," he said. He noted that a similar trend was being witnessed in Mali, where peacekeepers have been targeted by IEDs. Voicing concern that such usage has only increased, Swarup stressed the need to strongly condemn and take effective measures to combat this trend. “The countries affected by landmines, particularly with conflict situations, require assistance. We need to provide assistance without politicising the issue since it is the people who suffer from this menace,” he said. According to a concept note prepared for the meeting -- held under the Council Presidency of Vietnam --, 2019 was the fifth year in a row with high numbers of recorded casualties owing to the indiscriminate use of landmines, explosive remnants of war and improvised explosive devices. The vast majority of recorded casualties were civilians (80 per cent), of whom 43 per cent were children. It added that the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilisation Mission in Mali has recorded more than 350 casualties since its creation in 2013, of whom 65 were killed as a result of attacks using explosives, which have increasingly included improvised explosive devices. India, a leading contributor to UN peacekeeping operations, has extended assistance towards international demining and rehabilitation efforts. "We have also undertaken specialist training on Counter IED, bomb disposal and de-mining operations with numerous partner countries, including Australia, Cambodia, Indonesia and Uzbekistan," Swarup said. He pointed out that a 12-member team of experts from India participated in a joint counter explosive threat task forces training exercise, Ardent Defender-2019 in Ontario, Canada. About 130 personnel from 13 African states participated in exercise AFINDEX, a multinational exercise on de-mining and unexploded ordnance held in India in March 2019. In addition to providing training in demining, India had also provided seven de-mining teams to clear landmines in the Northern part of Sri Lanka in 2010 which helped facilitate the return of internally displaced persons (IDPs) to rebuild their lives, he said. In October 2018, the ‘India for Humanity’ initiative was launched as a part of Mahatma Gandhi’s 150th birth anniversary celebrations, with a focus on Gandhi''s philosophy of compassion and service to humanity. Swarup told the Council meeting that under this initiative, 13 artificial limb fitment camps have been held by India in 12 countries and more than 6,500 artificial limbs have been fitted, mainly in Asia and Africa. The limb fitment camps, which aim to provide for the physical, economic and social rehabilitation of the affected persons and help them regain their mobility and dignity, have now been extended upto March 2023. In this context, he acknowledged the association of BMVSS Jaipur, led by Dr. D.R. Mehta, for contributing artificial limb ‘Jaipur Foot’ for thousands affected by disabilities brought by conflicts and land mines. Swarup underscored India’s willingness to share its best practices with member states and the United Nations with respect to IED design, development, proliferation, mitigation and stand ready to contribute towards capacity building, victim assistance and victim rehabilitation. Swarup told the meeting that India is fully committed to the Convention on Certain Conventional Weapons and is a signatory to all its five Protocols, attaching high priority to the full implementation and universalisation of Amended Protocol-II “as it strikes the right balance between humanitarian concerns and legitimate defence requirements of States, especially those with long borders.” India has a moratorium on the export and transfer of landmines and is committed to reducing the dependence on Anti-Personnel Mines (APM’s), Swarup said, adding that India believes that the availability of militarily effective alternative technologies that are also cost-effective can help facilitate the goal of the complete elimination of APMs. India also supports the efforts of the UN Mine Action Service (UNMAS), UN Development Programme and other agencies which have been working in conflict zones across the world. The UNMAS’s mine action has remained pivotal to the safety and security of our peacekeepers, he said. Swarup added that India has enacted the Right of Persons with Disability Act, 2016 which addresses the concerns of persons with disabilities, including landmine survivors.

India expresses concern over terror groups using landmines and IEDs

    	Mumbai, Apr 8 (PTI) In a matter of concern, Mumbai&apos;s
  Dharavi area recorded its highest ever daily spike of 99 COVID-19 cases on Thursday, an official from the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) said.
	Earlier, the locality had recorded 94 infections on May 3, 2020.
	With the addition of the latest cases, the tally in the slum dominated area has risen to 5,474, the official said, adding that there are now 913 active cases in the locality.
	The first coronavirus case in Dharavi was reported on April 1, 2020, nearly 20 days after the first patient was found in Mumbai on March 11, 2020.
	Spread over 2.5 sq km, Dharavi is considered as Asia&apos;s largest slum with a population of over 6.5 lakh.  

Mumbai, Apr 8 (PTI) In a matter of concern, Mumbai's Dharavi area recorded its highest ever daily spike of 99 COVID-19 cases on Thursday, an official from the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) said.

Mumbai, Apr 8 (PTI) In a matter of concern, Mumbai's Dharavi area recorded its highest ever daily spike of 99 COVID-19 cases on Thursday, an official from the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) said. Earlier, the locality had recorded 94 infections on May 3, 2020. With the addition of the latest cases, the tally in the slum dominated area has risen to 5,474, the official said, adding that there are now 913 active cases in the locality. The first coronavirus case in Dharavi was reported on April 1, 2020, nearly 20 days after the first patient was found in Mumbai on March 11, 2020. Spread over 2.5 sq km, Dharavi is considered as Asia's largest slum with a population of over 6.5 lakh.

MH-VIRUS-DHARAVI

Indian Army Chief General MM Naravane on Thursday paid tribute to the fallen soldiers of the Liberation War of 1971.&nbsp;

"General MM Naravane #COAS paid tributes to the valiant soldiers, who laid down their lives during the Liberation War of 1971, by laying Wreath at #ShikhaAnirban. He also received a Guard of Honour at #Senakunj #Bangladesh. #IndiaBangladeshFriendship," tweeted Additional Directorate General of Public Information, IHQ of MoD (Army).

Shikha Anirban (eternal flame) in Dhaka Cantonment pays tribute to the Liberation War martyrs. Senakunja is the official auditorium/convention centre of the Bangladesh Armed Forces.

Naravane is on a five-day visit to Bangladesh. The visit aims to enhance defence cooperation and build strong bilateral ties between New Delhi and Dhaka.

The visit will further deepen the bilateral relationships between the two Armies and act as a catalyst for closer coordination and cooperation between the two countries on a host of strategic issues. Naravane will also meet with the three service chiefs of the Bangladesh Armed Forces during his visit.

The visit comes days after Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Bangladesh during which New Delhi and Dakha signed MoUs in key sectors including trade and technology to foster bilateral ties and affirmed commitment to eliminating terrorism in all its forms.

Indian Army Chief General MM Naravane on Thursday paid tribute to the fallen soldiers of the Liberation War of 1971. "General MM Naravane #COAS paid tributes to the valiant soldiers, who laid down their lives during the Liberation War of 1971, by laying Wreath at #ShikhaAnirban.

Indian Army Chief General MM Naravane on Thursday paid tribute to the fallen soldiers of the Liberation War of 1971. "General MM Naravane #COAS paid tributes to the valiant soldiers, who laid down their lives during the Liberation War of 1971, by laying Wreath at #ShikhaAnirban. He also received a Guard of Honour at #Senakunj #Bangladesh. #IndiaBangladeshFriendship," tweeted Additional Directorate General of Public Information, IHQ of MoD (Army). Shikha Anirban (eternal flame) in Dhaka Cantonment pays tribute to the Liberation War martyrs. Senakunja is the official auditorium/convention centre of the Bangladesh Armed Forces. Naravane is on a five-day visit to Bangladesh. The visit aims to enhance defence cooperation and build strong bilateral ties between New Delhi and Dhaka. The visit will further deepen the bilateral relationships between the two Armies and act as a catalyst for closer coordination and cooperation between the two countries on a host of strategic issues. Naravane will also meet with the three service chiefs of the Bangladesh Armed Forces during his visit. The visit comes days after Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Bangladesh during which New Delhi and Dakha signed MoUs in key sectors including trade and technology to foster bilateral ties and affirmed commitment to eliminating terrorism in all its forms.

Indian Army chief Naravane pays tribute to fallen soldiers of Bangladesh Liberation War

India reported 115,736 new cases of coronavirus on Wednesday, setting a new daily record for the country witnessing another wave of infections.

The total cases in the country have gone up to 12.80 million, health ministry data showed. In the last 24 hours, 630 deaths were recorded, taking the total to 166,177.

On Tuesday, the national capital New Delhi initiated a curfew set to last till April 30 as cases continue to surge. The curfew prohibits movement of people between 10 pm and 5 am.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/coronavirus-global-death-toll-surpasses-3-million-amid-resurgence-of-infections-375787" hreflang="en">Coronavirus global death toll surpasses 3 million amid resurgence of infections</a>

India had become the third country to record over 100,000 new cases in a day after the United States and Brazil on Monday.&nbsp; The number of fresh cases dipped slightly on Tuesday when over 96,000 new cases were recorded.

Vaccination is currently underway across the country. The drive kicked off on January 16 and priority was given to healthcare and frontline workers in the first phase.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/filipino-man-who-flouted-coronavirus-rules-dies-after-exercise-punishment-375669" hreflang="en">Filipino man who flouted coronavirus rules dies after 'exercise punishment'</a>

The second phase began on March 1 which allowed inoculation of people aged 60 and above, and also those who fall in the age group between 49-59 with co-morbidities.

Last year, a nationwide lockdown was imposed to prevent mass transmission. Now, cases are rising again after the country witnessed a fall over the winter months.

India reported 115,736 new cases of coronavirus on Wednesday, setting a new daily record for the country witnessing another wave of infections. The total cases in the country have gone up to 12.

India reported 115,736 new cases of coronavirus on Wednesday, setting a new daily record for the country witnessing another wave of infections. The total cases in the country have gone up to 12.80 million, health ministry data showed. In the last 24 hours, 630 deaths were recorded, taking the total to 166,177. On Tuesday, the national capital New Delhi initiated a curfew set to last till April 30 as cases continue to surge. The curfew prohibits movement of people between 10 pm and 5 am. Also read: Coronavirus global death toll surpasses 3 million amid resurgence of infections India had become the third country to record over 100,000 new cases in a day after the United States and Brazil on Monday. The number of fresh cases dipped slightly on Tuesday when over 96,000 new cases were recorded. Vaccination is currently underway across the country. The drive kicked off on January 16 and priority was given to healthcare and frontline workers in the first phase. Also read: Filipino man who flouted coronavirus rules dies after 'exercise punishment' The second phase began on March 1 which allowed inoculation of people aged 60 and above, and also those who fall in the age group between 49-59 with co-morbidities. Last year, a nationwide lockdown was imposed to prevent mass transmission. Now, cases are rising again after the country witnessed a fall over the winter months.

India reports over 100,000 fresh coronavirus cases for second time in a week

India on Wednesday recorded an all-time high of over 115,000 new COVID-19 cases over the past 24 hours, taking the total number of infections to more than 12.8 million. The death toll also reached over 166,000, including 630 new fatalities.

India reports over 115,000 new COVID-19 cases

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India, Japan to hold 2+2 talks amid China's aggressive moves

Prashant Kishor finished TMC, put the last nail in coffin: BJP MP

India reports over 132,000 new COVID-19 Cases in 24 hrs

With 131,968 fresh cases, India's Covid-19 caseload tops 13 million

PM warns against the politicisation of Covid-19 amid verbal duel between Centre, states over vaccine supply

India is critical part of solution to climate crisis: US Congresswoman

Iran's Chabahar port likely ready by May as India speeds up work: US report

Enforcement Directorate summons Mehbooba Mufti's mother in money laundering case

Seychelles President Ramkalawan 'son of India': Indian PM Modi

No third party involved, says India on sending vaccines to Paraguay

Serum Institute of India refunds South Africa for undelivered COVID-19 vaccines

J&J says in talks with Indian government for trial of single-dose vaccine

US Navy violates exclusive economic zones of India, Maldives

US Navy violates exclusive economic zones of India, Maldives

India completes world's highest rail bridge arch

Seven terrorists killed by security forces, AGuH terror outfit wiped out in J&K

India, US can 'creatively collaborate' on agenda for clean and green technologies: PM Modi

India to gift patrol vessel worth Rs 100 cr to Seychelles at Modi-Ramkalawan virtual meet

Uzbekistan invites Indian PM Modi, Pak PM Khan, other leaders for connectivity summit

New Zealand suspends entry for travellers from India amid COVID-19 spike

Night curfew in Lucknow, Kanpur, Varanasi as Covid cases surge

Three terrorists killed, two security personnel injured in encounter in J&K

India expresses concern over terror groups using landmines and IEDs

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