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India witnessed the highest number of real-time online transactions in 2020, trumping China and United States.

At least 25.5 billion real-time transactions were recorded in India over the last year, followed by 15.7 billion in China, 6 billion in South Korea, 5.2 billion in Thailand, followed by the United Kingdom with 2.8 billion transactions.

US barely made it to the top 10 list at number 9 nine with 1.2 billion transactions.

For instant payments, India’s volume share was 15.6 per cent. For other electronic payments, it stood at 22.9 per cent, based on the report released by ACI Worldwide, a UK-based payments system company. Even then, paper-based payments remain important in India, with a 61.4 per cent share.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/following-china-and-eu-japan-set-to-issue-digital-vaccine-passports-373795" hreflang="en">Following China and EU, Japan set to issue digital vaccine passports</a>

But predictions suggest that this will change by 2025. Instant payments volume is set to increase to over 37 per cent, while the share of other electronic payments is likely to grow to over 34 per cent.

Naturally, the share of paper-based transactions is set to decline below 28 per cent. Real-time payments’ share is expected to exceed 50 per cent by 2024.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/science/digital-artwork-by-humanoid-robot-sophia-sells-at-auction-for-nearly-700000-373064" hreflang="en">Digital artwork by humanoid robot Sophia sells at auction for nearly $700,000</a>

Pre-Paid Instruments (PPI) and the Universal Payment Interface (UPI) have helped make digitisation mainstream in India.

UPI transactions have continued to grow in the country on a month-on-month basis. In March 2021, the value was up to INR 4.25 lakh crore from INR 4.25 lakh crore in February, based on data released by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI).

India witnessed the highest number of real-time online transactions in 2020, trumping China and United States. At least 25.5 billion real-time transactions were recorded in India over the last year, followed by 15.

India witnessed the highest number of real-time online transactions in 2020, trumping China and United States. At least 25.5 billion real-time transactions were recorded in India over the last year, followed by 15.7 billion in China, 6 billion in South Korea, 5.2 billion in Thailand, followed by the United Kingdom with 2.8 billion transactions. US barely made it to the top 10 list at number 9 nine with 1.2 billion transactions. For instant payments, India’s volume share was 15.6 per cent. For other electronic payments, it stood at 22.9 per cent, based on the report released by ACI Worldwide, a UK-based payments system company. Even then, paper-based payments remain important in India, with a 61.4 per cent share. Also read: Following China and EU, Japan set to issue digital vaccine passports But predictions suggest that this will change by 2025. Instant payments volume is set to increase to over 37 per cent, while the share of other electronic payments is likely to grow to over 34 per cent. Naturally, the share of paper-based transactions is set to decline below 28 per cent. Real-time payments’ share is expected to exceed 50 per cent by 2024. Also read: Digital artwork by humanoid robot Sophia sells at auction for nearly $700,000 Pre-Paid Instruments (PPI) and the Universal Payment Interface (UPI) have helped make digitisation mainstream in India. UPI transactions have continued to grow in the country on a month-on-month basis. In March 2021, the value was up to INR 4.25 lakh crore from INR 4.25 lakh crore in February, based on data released by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI).

India trumps China, US with over 25 billion digital transactions in 2020

India has reported the highest number of daily COVID-19 cases till now since the pandemic started. The fresh numbers have crossed the 100,000 mark in just the last 24 hours. The single-day rise in cases surpassed the earlier peak of 97,894 infections reported on September 17, last year.

News Alert: India crosses 100,000 COVID-19 cases for the first time

India breached the critical mark of 1-lakh Covid-19 cases for the first time since the pandemic has begun in 2019.

The country has reported 1,03,558 new coronavirus cases, 52,847 discharges, and 478 deaths in the past 24 hours, as per the Union Health Ministry.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/first-case-of-indian-coronavirus-variant-found-in-united-states-375384">Also read: First case of Indian coronavirus variant found in the United States</a> 
 
India's total cases are now at 1,25,89,067. Total recoveries at 1,16,82,136; active cases are 7,41,830 and the death toll has climbed to 1,65,101.

Maharashtra remains the worst hit-state with over 30 lakh total infections logged since the beginning of the pandemic. On Sunday, the state saw the biggest-ever spike in cases with 57,074 fresh infections. 
 
With this, the second wave of the pandemic in India, which started just around 52 days ago, has already seen a higher peak in cases than the first wave. 
 
Meanwhile, the overall global Covid-19 caseload has topped 131.1 million, while the deaths have surged to more than 2.85 million, according to Johns Hopkins University.

In its latest update on Monday morning, the University`s Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) revealed that the current global caseload and death toll stood at 131,196,109 and 2,851,973, respectively.

The US is the worst-hit country with the world`s highest number of cases and deaths at 30,671,074 and 554,999, respectively, according to the CSSE.

Brazil follows in second place with 12,953,597 cases and 331,433 fatalities.

The other countries with more than two million confirmed coronavirus cases are India (12,392,260), France (4,802,545), Russia (4,520,879), the UK (4,371,393), Italy (3,650,247), Turkey (3,445,052), Spain (3,300,965), Germany (2,886,029), Colombia (2,437,197), Poland (2,415,584), Argentina (2,383,537) and Mexico (2,247,357), the CSSE figures showed.

(With inputs from agencies)

India breached the critical mark of 1-lakh Covid-19 cases for the first time since the pandemic has begun in 2019. The country has reported 1,03,558 new coronavirus cases, 52,847 discharges, and 478 deaths in the past 24 hours, as per the Union Health Ministry.

India breached the critical mark of 1-lakh Covid-19 cases for the first time since the pandemic has begun in 2019. The country has reported 1,03,558 new coronavirus cases, 52,847 discharges, and 478 deaths in the past 24 hours, as per the Union Health Ministry. Also read: First case of Indian coronavirus variant found in the United States India's total cases are now at 1,25,89,067. Total recoveries at 1,16,82,136; active cases are 7,41,830 and the death toll has climbed to 1,65,101. Maharashtra remains the worst hit-state with over 30 lakh total infections logged since the beginning of the pandemic. On Sunday, the state saw the biggest-ever spike in cases with 57,074 fresh infections. With this, the second wave of the pandemic in India, which started just around 52 days ago, has already seen a higher peak in cases than the first wave. Meanwhile, the overall global Covid-19 caseload has topped 131.1 million, while the deaths have surged to more than 2.85 million, according to Johns Hopkins University. In its latest update on Monday morning, the University`s Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) revealed that the current global caseload and death toll stood at 131,196,109 and 2,851,973, respectively. The US is the worst-hit country with the world`s highest number of cases and deaths at 30,671,074 and 554,999, respectively, according to the CSSE. Brazil follows in second place with 12,953,597 cases and 331,433 fatalities. The other countries with more than two million confirmed coronavirus cases are India (12,392,260), France (4,802,545), Russia (4,520,879), the UK (4,371,393), Italy (3,650,247), Turkey (3,445,052), Spain (3,300,965), Germany (2,886,029), Colombia (2,437,197), Poland (2,415,584), Argentina (2,383,537) and Mexico (2,247,357), the CSSE figures showed. (With inputs from agencies)

India's daily Covid-19 cases crosses over 1 lakh mark, first time since pandemic began

22 Indian security forces were killed and 30 others injured in a gun battle with Maoist rebels in the Chhattisgarh, India on Saturday. It was the deadliest ambush of its kind in four years.

India: 22 security personnel killed in anti-Maoist action in Chhattisgarh

The Covid-19 surge in the national capital continues as 4,033 were reported in the last 24 hours taking the total tally to 6,76,414, the health bulletin said. 
 
According to the health bulletin released on Sunday, the number of deaths reported in the last 24 hours were 21 taking the toll to 11,081. However, the total recoveries stand at 6,51,351 with 2,2677 recoveries during the same period. 
 
The cumulative fatality rate was reported 1.64 per cent. 
 
Apart from this, over 7,000 Covid-19 patients in the capital are under home isolation. 
 
As per the health department, the positivity rate rose to 4.64 per cent. 
 
On Sunday, 86,899 tests were conducted out of which 54,472 were RT-PCR tests while 32,427 were rapid antigen tests. 
 
On Sunday, a total of 54,125 people were given vaccination shots in the capital.

The Covid-19 surge in the national capital continues as 4,033 were reported in the last 24 hours taking the total tally to 6,76,414, the health bulletin said. According to the health bulletin released on Sunday, the number of deaths reported in the last 24 hours were 21 taking the toll to 11,081.

The Covid-19 surge in the national capital continues as 4,033 were reported in the last 24 hours taking the total tally to 6,76,414, the health bulletin said. According to the health bulletin released on Sunday, the number of deaths reported in the last 24 hours were 21 taking the toll to 11,081. However, the total recoveries stand at 6,51,351 with 2,2677 recoveries during the same period. The cumulative fatality rate was reported 1.64 per cent. Apart from this, over 7,000 Covid-19 patients in the capital are under home isolation. As per the health department, the positivity rate rose to 4.64 per cent. On Sunday, 86,899 tests were conducted out of which 54,472 were RT-PCR tests while 32,427 were rapid antigen tests. On Sunday, a total of 54,125 people were given vaccination shots in the capital.

Over 4,000 new COVID-19 cases reported in Delhi in 24 hours

Indian drugmaker Cadila Healthcare Ltd said on Monday it would seek local regulatory approval to treat Covid-19 patients with an already approved Hepatitis C drug, following promising interim results from a late-stage trial.

A single dose of the Hepatitis C drug when taken early could help Covid-19 patients recover faster and avoid complications seen in the advanced stages of the disease, Cadila said in a statement to stock exchanges.

The drug, known as Pegylated Interferon alpha-2b and branded as "PegiHep" by Cadila, was originally approved for liver disease Hepatitis C and launched in India 10 years ago.

About 91 per cent of patients treated with the drug tested negative for Covid-19 in standard RT-PCR tests by day seven, compared to nearly 79 per cent who were given the standard of care, the company said citing Phase-III clinical trial data.

The news comes as daily coronavirus infections are surging to new highs in India, which has the world's third-highest caseload after the United States and Brazil. India has so far reported close to 12.5 million infections and more than 164,000 deaths.

Indian drugmaker Cadila Healthcare Ltd said on Monday it would seek local regulatory approval to treat Covid-19 patients with an already approved Hepatitis C drug, following promising interim results from a late-stage trial.

Indian drugmaker Cadila Healthcare Ltd said on Monday it would seek local regulatory approval to treat Covid-19 patients with an already approved Hepatitis C drug, following promising interim results from a late-stage trial. A single dose of the Hepatitis C drug when taken early could help Covid-19 patients recover faster and avoid complications seen in the advanced stages of the disease, Cadila said in a statement to stock exchanges. The drug, known as Pegylated Interferon alpha-2b and branded as "PegiHep" by Cadila, was originally approved for liver disease Hepatitis C and launched in India 10 years ago. About 91 per cent of patients treated with the drug tested negative for Covid-19 in standard RT-PCR tests by day seven, compared to nearly 79 per cent who were given the standard of care, the company said citing Phase-III clinical trial data. The news comes as daily coronavirus infections are surging to new highs in India, which has the world's third-highest caseload after the United States and Brazil. India has so far reported close to 12.5 million infections and more than 164,000 deaths.

India's Cadila seeks regulatory approval for Covid-19 drug

Around 65-70 people including students, teachers and staffs at Rajasthan`s IIT Jodhpur have tested positive for COVID-19 so far and 60 of them are currently infected with the coronavirus, the authorities said on Sunday.

P Singh Deputy Chief Medical Health Officer (CMHO) said, "Around March 11, some persons infected with COVID-19 had come here. They were from tribal villages Chandigarh, Gujarat and Jaipur. Then the cases started increasing."Now almost 65-70 people have tested positive so far at Rajasthan`s IIT Jodhpur. Of which 55-60 cases are active. There is no serious case. Block G3 on campus declared a micro-containment zone. Most of the positive students came from their houses in Chandigarh, Gujarat and Jaipur," he said.

"We have increased the sampling, so contact tracing can be done. Teachers are very less, Most of the infected patients are students," he further said.&nbsp;

"Cases are increasing in Jodhpur. The police and medical department are on alert. Sampling has been increased, anyone coming from outside Jodhpur, be it airport, bus stand or railway station, RTCPR tests are mandatory for them," he added.&nbsp;

Rajasthan has 11,738 active COVID-19 cases, including 1,254 cases reported in the last 24 hours. The total number of coronavirus fatalities in the Union Territory has reached 2,827 with 3 deaths on Saturday, according to the Ministry of Family and Health Welfare.

Around 65-70 people including students, teachers and staffs at Rajasthan`s IIT Jodhpur have tested positive for COVID-19 so far and 60 of them are currently infected with the coronavirus, the authorities said on Sunday.

Around 65-70 people including students, teachers and staffs at Rajasthan`s IIT Jodhpur have tested positive for COVID-19 so far and 60 of them are currently infected with the coronavirus, the authorities said on Sunday. P Singh Deputy Chief Medical Health Officer (CMHO) said, "Around March 11, some persons infected with COVID-19 had come here. They were from tribal villages Chandigarh, Gujarat and Jaipur. Then the cases started increasing."Now almost 65-70 people have tested positive so far at Rajasthan`s IIT Jodhpur. Of which 55-60 cases are active. There is no serious case. Block G3 on campus declared a micro-containment zone. Most of the positive students came from their houses in Chandigarh, Gujarat and Jaipur," he said. "We have increased the sampling, so contact tracing can be done. Teachers are very less, Most of the infected patients are students," he further said. "Cases are increasing in Jodhpur. The police and medical department are on alert. Sampling has been increased, anyone coming from outside Jodhpur, be it airport, bus stand or railway station, RTCPR tests are mandatory for them," he added. Rajasthan has 11,738 active COVID-19 cases, including 1,254 cases reported in the last 24 hours. The total number of coronavirus fatalities in the Union Territory has reached 2,827 with 3 deaths on Saturday, according to the Ministry of Family and Health Welfare.

Around 70 students test positive for Covid-19 at Rajasthan's IIT-Jodhpur

A single dose of the hepatitis C drug when taken early could help COVID-19 patients recover faster and avoid complications seen in the advanced stages of the disease

Cadila seeks nod to repurpose Hepatitis C drug for COVID-19 in India

Maharashtra government has decided to impose night curfew and weekend lockdown across the state amid the massive surge in COVID-19 cases.

India: Maharashtra imposes night curfew, weekend lockdown amid rise in COVID-19 cases

Personal details such as phone numbers of around 6.1 million (61 lakh) Indians on Facebook have allegedly been leaked online and posted on hacking forums, according to a cybersecurity executive.

According to Alon Gal, co-founder and chief technical officer of cybersecurity firm Hudson Rock, personal data of 533 million Facebook users globally - including names, phone numbers and other details - was allegedly leaked online and posted for free on hacking forums.&nbsp;

"All 533,000,000 Facebook records were just leaked for free. This means that if you have a Facebook account, it is extremely likely the phone number used for the account was leaked," Gal has said in a tweet flagging the issue.&nbsp;

A list of countries that was shared in the tweet, showed that information of 6.1 million users from India, 32.3 million from the US, 11.5 million from the UK and 7.3 million from Australia, was part of the leaked data.&nbsp;

When contacted, a Facebook company spokesperson said, "This is old data that was previously reported on in 2019. We found and fixed this issue in August 2019".&nbsp;

Gal said in early 2020, a vulnerability, which enabled seeing the phone number linked to every Facebook account, was exploited, creating a database containing the information of 533 million users across all countries.&nbsp;

He added that details include phone number, Facebook ID and full name and "bad actors will certainly use the information for social engineering, scamming, hacking and marketing".&nbsp;

In the past too, Facebook - which had 2.80 billion monthly active users (MUAs) as of December 31, 2020, has faced challenges around data security.&nbsp;

In March 2018, Facebook data of over 5.62 lakh Indians was allegedly compromised as UK-based Cambridge Analytica had accessed information of about 87 million users globally. India is among the biggest markets for Facebook and its group companies, WhatsApp and Instagram. According to government data, India has 53 crore WhatsApp users, 41 crore Facebook users, and 21 crore users of Instagram.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Personal details such as phone numbers of around 6.1 million (61 lakh) Indians on Facebook have allegedly been leaked online and posted on hacking forums, according to a cybersecurity executive.

Personal details such as phone numbers of around 6.1 million (61 lakh) Indians on Facebook have allegedly been leaked online and posted on hacking forums, according to a cybersecurity executive. According to Alon Gal, co-founder and chief technical officer of cybersecurity firm Hudson Rock, personal data of 533 million Facebook users globally - including names, phone numbers and other details - was allegedly leaked online and posted for free on hacking forums. "All 533,000,000 Facebook records were just leaked for free. This means that if you have a Facebook account, it is extremely likely the phone number used for the account was leaked," Gal has said in a tweet flagging the issue. A list of countries that was shared in the tweet, showed that information of 6.1 million users from India, 32.3 million from the US, 11.5 million from the UK and 7.3 million from Australia, was part of the leaked data. When contacted, a Facebook company spokesperson said, "This is old data that was previously reported on in 2019. We found and fixed this issue in August 2019". Gal said in early 2020, a vulnerability, which enabled seeing the phone number linked to every Facebook account, was exploited, creating a database containing the information of 533 million users across all countries. He added that details include phone number, Facebook ID and full name and "bad actors will certainly use the information for social engineering, scamming, hacking and marketing". In the past too, Facebook - which had 2.80 billion monthly active users (MUAs) as of December 31, 2020, has faced challenges around data security. In March 2018, Facebook data of over 5.62 lakh Indians was allegedly compromised as UK-based Cambridge Analytica had accessed information of about 87 million users globally. India is among the biggest markets for Facebook and its group companies, WhatsApp and Instagram. According to government data, India has 53 crore WhatsApp users, 41 crore Facebook users, and 21 crore users of Instagram. (With inputs from agencies)

India’s 6.1 mn Facebook users’ personal details leaked online 

New Delhi: Ahead of the Special Presidential Envoy for Climate John Kerry's New Delhi visit, starting Monday (April 5), the US has said that India is a "critical part of the solution to the climate crisis".

Biden's special envoy John Kerry to visit India

A three-cornered battle is on the cards in 31 assembly seats that are set to go to polls on Tuesday in the third phase of Bengal elections, with the BJP seeking to breach TMC fortresses, and the Left Front-ISF-Congress alliance hoping to make a mark in areas, where identity politics has gained ground.

More than 78.5 lakh voters are eligible to exercise their franchise and decide the fate of 205 candidates -- prominent among them being BJP leader Swapan Dasgupta, TMC minister Ashima Patra and CPM leader Kanti Ganguly in three districts - Howrah, Hooghly and South 24 Parganas.

Tight security arrangements have been made to ensure peaceful voting, with 618 companies of CAPF deployed to guard 10,871 polling stations, all of which have been marked "sensitive" by the Election Commission. State police forces will also be deputed at strategic locations to aid the CAPF.

With the COVID-19 situation in the state taking a turn for the worse, polling will be held amid strict adherence to health protocols across all 31 constituencies -- 16 in South 24 Parganas (part II), seven in Howrah (part I) and eight in Hooghly (part I).

The TMC had won all but one seat of these 31 segments in the 2016 assembly elections. The Congress had managed to bag Amta constituency in Howrah district.

The Diamond Harbour Lok Sabha constituency, held by political heavyweight and TMC MP Abhishek Banerjee, will be closely watched, as four of its seven assembly segments will go to polls in the third phase, and the rest will follow suit in the fourth phase on April 10.

The Indian Secular Front (ISF), floated by Peerzada Abbas Siddiqui, has turned out to be a cause of concern for the TMC, as the outfit holds sway in several parts of South 24 Parganas and Hooghly districts.

TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee, having sensed the ISF's potential to eat into her party's minority vote base, had been hitting out at Siddiqui, alleging that he has been propped up by the BJP, a charge vehemently denied by the cleric, who is taking on the ruling party with gusto.

Clashes between the ISF and TMC supporters have been reported from Bhangar and Canning East in South 24 Parganas, as the Siddiqui-led party gears up to give the ruling dispensation a tough fight in association with the Left Front and the Congress.

Adding to the ruling camp's woes, the BJP has fielded sitting MLA and TMC turncoat Dipak Halder, who wields considerable influence in the area.

Sharpening its attack on the TMC over issues ranging from corruption to political violence, the BJP held power-packed campaigns across the three districts over the past few days, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi who addressed several public meetings.

Besides, Home Minister Amit Shah, BJP president JP Nadda, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Union minister Smriti Irani held a slew of rallies in these areas.

The TMC chief, who is still recuperating from her injuries, traversed the length and breadth of the three districts on her wheelchair, highlighting her government's development schemes, and hurling barbs at the BJP over price rise, and other central government policies.

A three-cornered battle is on the cards in 31 assembly seats that are set to go to polls on Tuesday in the third phase of Bengal elections, with the BJP seeking to breach TMC fortresses, and the Left Front-ISF-Congress alliance hoping to make a mark in areas, where identity politics has gained ground.

A three-cornered battle is on the cards in 31 assembly seats that are set to go to polls on Tuesday in the third phase of Bengal elections, with the BJP seeking to breach TMC fortresses, and the Left Front-ISF-Congress alliance hoping to make a mark in areas, where identity politics has gained ground. More than 78.5 lakh voters are eligible to exercise their franchise and decide the fate of 205 candidates -- prominent among them being BJP leader Swapan Dasgupta, TMC minister Ashima Patra and CPM leader Kanti Ganguly in three districts - Howrah, Hooghly and South 24 Parganas. Tight security arrangements have been made to ensure peaceful voting, with 618 companies of CAPF deployed to guard 10,871 polling stations, all of which have been marked "sensitive" by the Election Commission. State police forces will also be deputed at strategic locations to aid the CAPF. With the COVID-19 situation in the state taking a turn for the worse, polling will be held amid strict adherence to health protocols across all 31 constituencies -- 16 in South 24 Parganas (part II), seven in Howrah (part I) and eight in Hooghly (part I). The TMC had won all but one seat of these 31 segments in the 2016 assembly elections. The Congress had managed to bag Amta constituency in Howrah district. The Diamond Harbour Lok Sabha constituency, held by political heavyweight and TMC MP Abhishek Banerjee, will be closely watched, as four of its seven assembly segments will go to polls in the third phase, and the rest will follow suit in the fourth phase on April 10. The Indian Secular Front (ISF), floated by Peerzada Abbas Siddiqui, has turned out to be a cause of concern for the TMC, as the outfit holds sway in several parts of South 24 Parganas and Hooghly districts. TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee, having sensed the ISF's potential to eat into her party's minority vote base, had been hitting out at Siddiqui, alleging that he has been propped up by the BJP, a charge vehemently denied by the cleric, who is taking on the ruling party with gusto. Clashes between the ISF and TMC supporters have been reported from Bhangar and Canning East in South 24 Parganas, as the Siddiqui-led party gears up to give the ruling dispensation a tough fight in association with the Left Front and the Congress. Adding to the ruling camp's woes, the BJP has fielded sitting MLA and TMC turncoat Dipak Halder, who wields considerable influence in the area. Sharpening its attack on the TMC over issues ranging from corruption to political violence, the BJP held power-packed campaigns across the three districts over the past few days, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi who addressed several public meetings. Besides, Home Minister Amit Shah, BJP president JP Nadda, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Union minister Smriti Irani held a slew of rallies in these areas. The TMC chief, who is still recuperating from her injuries, traversed the length and breadth of the three districts on her wheelchair, highlighting her government's development schemes, and hurling barbs at the BJP over price rise, and other central government policies.

India polls: Bengal gets ready for third phase as BJP seeks to dislodge TMC

After the Bombay High Court asked CBI to start a preliminary inquiry within 15 days into corruption allegations of former Mumbai police commissioner Param Bir Singh against Maharashtra home minister Anil Deshmukh, he met NCP leader Sharad Pawar and said he doesn't want to remain in the post.

Deshmukh later submitted his resignation to Maharashtra CM&nbsp;Uddhav Thackeray.&nbsp;

State minister and NCP leader Nawab Malik said the party has requested the chief minister to accept his resignation.

In his resignation letter to the Maharashtra chief minister, home minister Anil Deshmukh said he doesn't find it morally correct to continue as the home minister after the Bombay High Court's order.

"Deshmukh informed NCP chief Sharad Pawar that it won't be appropriate to remain in the post as CBI will be probing the charges against him," senior party minister Nawab Malik said.

Deshmukh submitted his resignation letter to Thackeray, Malik said. "Singh's allegations are baseless but the party respects the court and hence the minister will quit," Malik said.

"The state government has already ordered a probe by a retired judge into the claims but we respect the judiciary and after the court orders, Deshmukh himself said he doesn't wish to continue," Malik added.

After the resignation, state BJP chief Chandrakant Patil said that there will be many "shocking revelations" in the CBI probe.

"Those who make mistakes should be punished or else democracy won't be strengthened. Many skeletons will tumble out after the 15-day CBI preliminary probe," Patil said.&nbsp;

After the Bombay High Court asked CBI to start a preliminary inquiry within 15 days into corruption allegations of former Mumbai police commissioner Param Bir Singh against Maharashtra home minister Anil Deshmukh, he met NCP leader Sharad Pawar and said he doesn't want to remain in the post.

After the Bombay High Court asked CBI to start a preliminary inquiry within 15 days into corruption allegations of former Mumbai police commissioner Param Bir Singh against Maharashtra home minister Anil Deshmukh, he met NCP leader Sharad Pawar and said he doesn't want to remain in the post. Deshmukh later submitted his resignation to Maharashtra CM Uddhav Thackeray. State minister and NCP leader Nawab Malik said the party has requested the chief minister to accept his resignation. In his resignation letter to the Maharashtra chief minister, home minister Anil Deshmukh said he doesn't find it morally correct to continue as the home minister after the Bombay High Court's order. "Deshmukh informed NCP chief Sharad Pawar that it won't be appropriate to remain in the post as CBI will be probing the charges against him," senior party minister Nawab Malik said. Deshmukh submitted his resignation letter to Thackeray, Malik said. "Singh's allegations are baseless but the party respects the court and hence the minister will quit," Malik said. "The state government has already ordered a probe by a retired judge into the claims but we respect the judiciary and after the court orders, Deshmukh himself said he doesn't wish to continue," Malik added. After the resignation, state BJP chief Chandrakant Patil said that there will be many "shocking revelations" in the CBI probe. "Those who make mistakes should be punished or else democracy won't be strengthened. Many skeletons will tumble out after the 15-day CBI preliminary probe," Patil said.

Maharashtra minister Anil Deshmukh quits after court orders CBI probe into top cop's allegation

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov is set to begin his two-day bilateral visit to India on Monday, which will present an opportunity to discuss aspects of bilateral ties and review preparations for the pending India-Russia annual summit later this year.

"The visit will be a unique opportunity to discuss important aspects of our bilateral ties, also to review preparations for the next India Russia annual summit and also perhaps discuss regional and international issues of mutual interest," the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Arindam Bagchi had said.&nbsp;

Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova on Thursday had said the Russian Foreign Minister, during his visit, will hold talks with his counterpart External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar.

"The heads of the foreign affairs agencies will discuss the current state of bilateral relations, the preparation of the upcoming high-level meeting this year, including cooperation in the fight against the pandemic, will consider key topics on the regional, global agenda, assess approaches to the interaction between Russia and India on the international arena, including at the UN, BRICS," Zakharova added.

After India, Lavrov will visit Pakistan from April 6-7. The foreign minister’s visit to India comes as Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla visited the country in February this year where he met Lavrov and discussed wide-ranging Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership between the two countries and ways to further strengthen it.

Shringla had said they discussed some regional and international issues of interest including cooperation in the UN and UNSC where India is a non-permanent member now.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov is set to begin his two-day bilateral visit to India on Monday, which will present an opportunity to discuss aspects of bilateral ties and review preparations for the pending India-Russia annual summit later this year.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov is set to begin his two-day bilateral visit to India on Monday, which will present an opportunity to discuss aspects of bilateral ties and review preparations for the pending India-Russia annual summit later this year. "The visit will be a unique opportunity to discuss important aspects of our bilateral ties, also to review preparations for the next India Russia annual summit and also perhaps discuss regional and international issues of mutual interest," the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Arindam Bagchi had said. Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova on Thursday had said the Russian Foreign Minister, during his visit, will hold talks with his counterpart External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar. "The heads of the foreign affairs agencies will discuss the current state of bilateral relations, the preparation of the upcoming high-level meeting this year, including cooperation in the fight against the pandemic, will consider key topics on the regional, global agenda, assess approaches to the interaction between Russia and India on the international arena, including at the UN, BRICS," Zakharova added. After India, Lavrov will visit Pakistan from April 6-7. The foreign minister’s visit to India comes as Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla visited the country in February this year where he met Lavrov and discussed wide-ranging Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership between the two countries and ways to further strengthen it. Shringla had said they discussed some regional and international issues of interest including cooperation in the UN and UNSC where India is a non-permanent member now. (With inputs from agencies)

Russian Foreign Minister to begin two-day India visit tomorrow

In Tamil Nadu’s personality-cult dominated political landscape, image is everything and sometimes even imitations are accepted. For several decades, political parties have been hiring lookalike artists of actors and politicians during the campaign season. Dressed up like the stalwarts of the state’s political arena these artists sing and dance, deliver dialogues, imitate mannerisms, all for garnering votes.&nbsp;

With their make-up kits and tailored-to-perfection costumes, it just takes a few minutes for these artists to transform from their real to reel selves. As this is the first Assembly election in Tamil Nadu sans tall leaders Jayalalithaa and M Karunanidhi, the artists representing these leaders are the most in-demand.&nbsp;

“Lookalikes do have an impact on voters minds. This time, since the stalwarts are not with us, the lookalikes have a bigger role to play. It rekindles the memories of the old times among the senior voters” says Jitu, a Madurai resident.

Working mostly in the evenings, these artists travel across the state and campaign for various parties, with some members even capable of donning multiple roles. However, the changing nature of politics itself and the digital campaigns, targeted advertising has significantly impacted their profession.&nbsp;

Cine Star Abinaya, a city-based troupe has about 20 artists, they play - MGR, Jayalalithaa, Karunanidhi, Kamal Haasan, Rajinikanth, Vijayakanth, Sathyaraj, Ajith, Vijay and many other personalities. There are even separate persons to represent the MGR in his trademark sunglass, white-cap Chief Minister avatar and also the funky-colored costume-wearing cine-star MGR.&nbsp;

During peak election season, an artist earns upto Rs 2000 per performance, but they say that work has become scarce these days, when compared to a decade ago.&nbsp;

“Post-election campaign some of us drive autos, some work as shopkeepers, but there are also a few of us who are fully time artists” says Saraa, who runs Cine Star Abinaya.

He adds that many cannot sustain this profession after a certain age, as they have to go perform until late in the evenings and often have their meals well after midnight, thus affecting health.&nbsp;

Eswaran who plays Rajinikanth and MK Stalin is a full-time performer with no other source of income. “During non-campaign season I perform at temple festivals, I can also sing, so that’s an added advantage” he says.&nbsp;

When asked about their routine and fitness regimen, the artists say that they have to maintain diet control and walk a few minutes every day to maintain their physique and ensure that they continue to resemble their starry avatars.

Speaking of their livelihoods and families, the artists say that they are able to make ends meet during election season, but that isn’t so after election work dries up. Their lament is that, politicians and parties need them the most during poll-time, but neglect them thereafter.&nbsp;

“When we wear those costumes and sing and dance on stage, while seeking votes, our woes disappear, but then the reel life ends and eventually we have to deal with real life” says Saraa.

In Tamil Nadu’s personality-cult dominated political landscape, image is everything and sometimes even imitations are accepted. For several decades, political parties have been hiring lookalike artists of actors and politicians during the campaign season.

In Tamil Nadu’s personality-cult dominated political landscape, image is everything and sometimes even imitations are accepted. For several decades, political parties have been hiring lookalike artists of actors and politicians during the campaign season. Dressed up like the stalwarts of the state’s political arena these artists sing and dance, deliver dialogues, imitate mannerisms, all for garnering votes. With their make-up kits and tailored-to-perfection costumes, it just takes a few minutes for these artists to transform from their real to reel selves. As this is the first Assembly election in Tamil Nadu sans tall leaders Jayalalithaa and M Karunanidhi, the artists representing these leaders are the most in-demand. “Lookalikes do have an impact on voters minds. This time, since the stalwarts are not with us, the lookalikes have a bigger role to play. It rekindles the memories of the old times among the senior voters” says Jitu, a Madurai resident. Working mostly in the evenings, these artists travel across the state and campaign for various parties, with some members even capable of donning multiple roles. However, the changing nature of politics itself and the digital campaigns, targeted advertising has significantly impacted their profession. Cine Star Abinaya, a city-based troupe has about 20 artists, they play - MGR, Jayalalithaa, Karunanidhi, Kamal Haasan, Rajinikanth, Vijayakanth, Sathyaraj, Ajith, Vijay and many other personalities. There are even separate persons to represent the MGR in his trademark sunglass, white-cap Chief Minister avatar and also the funky-colored costume-wearing cine-star MGR. During peak election season, an artist earns upto Rs 2000 per performance, but they say that work has become scarce these days, when compared to a decade ago. “Post-election campaign some of us drive autos, some work as shopkeepers, but there are also a few of us who are fully time artists” says Saraa, who runs Cine Star Abinaya. He adds that many cannot sustain this profession after a certain age, as they have to go perform until late in the evenings and often have their meals well after midnight, thus affecting health. Eswaran who plays Rajinikanth and MK Stalin is a full-time performer with no other source of income. “During non-campaign season I perform at temple festivals, I can also sing, so that’s an added advantage” he says. When asked about their routine and fitness regimen, the artists say that they have to maintain diet control and walk a few minutes every day to maintain their physique and ensure that they continue to resemble their starry avatars. Speaking of their livelihoods and families, the artists say that they are able to make ends meet during election season, but that isn’t so after election work dries up. Their lament is that, politicians and parties need them the most during poll-time, but neglect them thereafter. “When we wear those costumes and sing and dance on stage, while seeking votes, our woes disappear, but then the reel life ends and eventually we have to deal with real life” says Saraa.

Tamil Nadu: Lookalikes of Rajinikanth, Kamal Haasan and others hit campaign trail

TOKYO (Reuters) - Japanese swimming star Rikako Ikee defied the odds and secured an Olympics berth after the leukaemia survivor won the women`s 100-metre butterfly at the national championships on Sunday, less than eight months after she returned to competition. Ikee pumped her fist and received a hug from her competitor in the next lane after finishing in 57.77 seconds, qualifying her for the 4x100 medley relay at this summer`s Games. She then broke into tears and took some time to exit the water having become overcome with emotion at her accomplishment. "I am so happy right now," the 20-year-old said in a poolside interview. "I never thought I would be able to win the 100. I was much less confident than at the Olympic qualifiers five years ago. I thought winning was something that would only happen in the distant future." Ikee had been expected to be one of Japan`s top medal hopefuls at the Tokyo Olympics before she was diagnosed with leukaemia in 2019. She battled back to fitness and returned to competition in August last year. But she had said she was not aiming for Tokyo and that the Paris 2024 Olympics were her goal. "I wasn`t really aiming for victory," Ikee said. "No matter what place I come in, I feel happy to be here." (Reporting by Chris Gallagher; Editing by Christian Radnedge)

TOKYO (Reuters) - Japanese swimming star Rikako Ikee defied the odds and secured an Olympics berth after the leukaemia survivor won the women`s 100-metre butterfly at the national championships on Sunday, less than eight months after she returned to competition.

TOKYO (Reuters) - Japanese swimming star Rikako Ikee defied the odds and secured an Olympics berth after the leukaemia survivor won the women`s 100-metre butterfly at the national championships on Sunday, less than eight months after she returned to competition. Ikee pumped her fist and received a hug from her competitor in the next lane after finishing in 57.77 seconds, qualifying her for the 4x100 medley relay at this summer`s Games. She then broke into tears and took some time to exit the water having become overcome with emotion at her accomplishment. "I am so happy right now," the 20-year-old said in a poolside interview. "I never thought I would be able to win the 100. I was much less confident than at the Olympic qualifiers five years ago. I thought winning was something that would only happen in the distant future." Ikee had been expected to be one of Japan`s top medal hopefuls at the Tokyo Olympics before she was diagnosed with leukaemia in 2019. She battled back to fitness and returned to competition in August last year. But she had said she was not aiming for Tokyo and that the Paris 2024 Olympics were her goal. "I wasn`t really aiming for victory," Ikee said. "No matter what place I come in, I feel happy to be here." (Reporting by Chris Gallagher; Editing by Christian Radnedge)

Leukaemia survivor Ikee defies odds by securing Olympics berth

Eight states including Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, Karnataka, Delhi, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat account for 80.96 per cent of the 93,249 new daily COVID-19 cases, according to the Union Health Ministry.

India is seeing a steep intensification in the doubling time of the COVID-19 cases. As of April 4, it is 115.4 days, the ministry said on Sunday. &nbsp;

India's total active caseload has reached 6,91,597 and now comprises 5.54 per cent of the country's total infections. A net rise of 32,688 cases recorded in the total active caseload in a span of 24 hours.

Maharashtra, Karnataka, Chhattisgarh, Kerala and Punjab cumulatively account for 76.41 per cent of the total active cases in the country, the ministry said.

Maharashtra alone accounts &nbsp;for more than half (58.19%) of the total active caseload of the country.

India saw &nbsp;93,249 new coronavirus infections being reported in a span of 24 hours, the highest single day rise so far this year, taking the nationwide COVID-19 tally of cases to 1,24,85,509 , according to the ministry data updated on Sunday morning.

Maharashtra has reported the highest daily new cases at 49,447. This is followed by Chhattisgarh with 5,818 cases while Karnataka reported 4,373 new cases.

Twelve states including Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, Punjab, Karnataka, Delhi, Tamil Nadu, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Haryana, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh and Kerala are displaying an upward trajectory in daily new cases, the ministry said.

India's cumulative recoveries stand at &nbsp;1,16,29,289 with 60,048 recoveries being registered in a span of 24 hours.

Besides, 513 deaths were reported in a day.

Eight states account for 85.19 per cent of the new deaths. Maharashtra saw the maximum casualties (277). Punjab follows with 49 daily deaths, the ministry said.

Fourteen states and UTs have not reported any COVID-19 deaths in the last 24 hours.&nbsp;

These are Odisha, Assam, Puducherry, Ladakh (UT), D&amp;D &amp; D&amp;N, Nagaland, Meghalaya, Manipur, Tripura, Sikkim, Lakshadweep, Mizoram, Andaman and Nicobar Islands and Arunachal Pradesh.

On the issue of vaccination, the ministry said the cumulative number of COVID-19 vaccine doses administered in the country stands at 7,59,79,651 &nbsp;(through 11,99,125 sessions).

These include 89,82,974 healthcare workers (HCWs) who have taken the 1st dose, 53,19,641 HCWs who have taken the 2nd dose, 96,86,477 frontline workers who have received the 1st dose and 40,97,510 FLWs who have taken the 2nd dose.

Besides, 4,70,70,019 &nbsp;and 8,23,030 &nbsp;beneficiaries aged more than 45 years have been administered the 1st and 2nd dose respectively.

The cumulative vaccination figure includes over 6.5 crore (6,57,39,470) first doses, while the second dose numbers have crossed the 1 crore mark as well (1,02,40,181), the ministry said.

As on day-78 of the vaccination drive (3rd April), 27,38,972 vaccine doses were given. Out of which, 24,80,031 beneficiaries were vaccinated for 1st dose and 2,58,941 beneficiaries received their 2nd dose of vaccine.

Eight states account for 60.19 per cent of the cumulative doses given so far. Maharashtra alone accounts for 9.68 per cent of the total doses given in India.

Maharashtra has alone distributed 65,59,094 1st doses and 7,95,150 &nbsp;2nd doses.&nbsp;

Eight states including Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, Karnataka, Delhi, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat account for 80.96 per cent of the 93,249 new daily COVID-19 cases, according to the Union Health Ministry.

Eight states including Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, Karnataka, Delhi, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat account for 80.96 per cent of the 93,249 new daily COVID-19 cases, according to the Union Health Ministry. India is seeing a steep intensification in the doubling time of the COVID-19 cases. As of April 4, it is 115.4 days, the ministry said on Sunday. India's total active caseload has reached 6,91,597 and now comprises 5.54 per cent of the country's total infections. A net rise of 32,688 cases recorded in the total active caseload in a span of 24 hours. Maharashtra, Karnataka, Chhattisgarh, Kerala and Punjab cumulatively account for 76.41 per cent of the total active cases in the country, the ministry said. Maharashtra alone accounts for more than half (58.19%) of the total active caseload of the country. India saw 93,249 new coronavirus infections being reported in a span of 24 hours, the highest single day rise so far this year, taking the nationwide COVID-19 tally of cases to 1,24,85,509 , according to the ministry data updated on Sunday morning. Maharashtra has reported the highest daily new cases at 49,447. This is followed by Chhattisgarh with 5,818 cases while Karnataka reported 4,373 new cases. Twelve states including Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, Punjab, Karnataka, Delhi, Tamil Nadu, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Haryana, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh and Kerala are displaying an upward trajectory in daily new cases, the ministry said. India's cumulative recoveries stand at 1,16,29,289 with 60,048 recoveries being registered in a span of 24 hours. Besides, 513 deaths were reported in a day. Eight states account for 85.19 per cent of the new deaths. Maharashtra saw the maximum casualties (277). Punjab follows with 49 daily deaths, the ministry said. Fourteen states and UTs have not reported any COVID-19 deaths in the last 24 hours. These are Odisha, Assam, Puducherry, Ladakh (UT), D&D & D&N, Nagaland, Meghalaya, Manipur, Tripura, Sikkim, Lakshadweep, Mizoram, Andaman and Nicobar Islands and Arunachal Pradesh. On the issue of vaccination, the ministry said the cumulative number of COVID-19 vaccine doses administered in the country stands at 7,59,79,651 (through 11,99,125 sessions). These include 89,82,974 healthcare workers (HCWs) who have taken the 1st dose, 53,19,641 HCWs who have taken the 2nd dose, 96,86,477 frontline workers who have received the 1st dose and 40,97,510 FLWs who have taken the 2nd dose. Besides, 4,70,70,019 and 8,23,030 beneficiaries aged more than 45 years have been administered the 1st and 2nd dose respectively. The cumulative vaccination figure includes over 6.5 crore (6,57,39,470) first doses, while the second dose numbers have crossed the 1 crore mark as well (1,02,40,181), the ministry said. As on day-78 of the vaccination drive (3rd April), 27,38,972 vaccine doses were given. Out of which, 24,80,031 beneficiaries were vaccinated for 1st dose and 2,58,941 beneficiaries received their 2nd dose of vaccine. Eight states account for 60.19 per cent of the cumulative doses given so far. Maharashtra alone accounts for 9.68 per cent of the total doses given in India. Maharashtra has alone distributed 65,59,094 1st doses and 7,95,150 2nd doses.

Eight states account for over 80% of new Covid cases in India

India has reported more than 90,000 new coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours. The country's Prime Minister Narendra Modi to hold a high-level meeting to review COVID-19 related issues and discuss vaccination updates.

India: 93,249 new coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours

New Delhi, April 4 (IANSlife) Fashion trends are constantly evolving and style enthusiasts are hooked to the latest collections and options that are available on online and offline clothing stores. These traditional wears can swing from being maximalist to minimalist, going well with all body and skin types. However, the idea is to select the Kurti that can be easy to style and compliment the wearer without being overpowering.
 
Below are some quick tips and guides by Anuj Mundra, Chairman and MD, Jaipurkurti.com based on each body type to nail the traditional look with manipulation of designs and colours. 
Apple Shaped Body 
If your upper body is wide compared to the lower body with rounded shoulders, average to big bust or fullness around the middle, it`s best to go for darker shades with cotton and silk fabrics as they do not cling to the body. Necklines that are V-shaped or embellished will tend to draw attention to the much-endowed bust. Flared and cuffed sleeves will help in highlighting the best assets while accentuating your best features. 
Banana Shaped Body 
Banana-shaped body or the rectangular body type, is an evenly proportionate shape, which means that the shoulders, hips, and waist are evenly proportioned. The size can vary from small to medium bust but the waist is not defined. The features for the right Kurti that will compliment this body type include a broad and deep neckline with a clinched waist. One can opt for panel detailing along with pleats and a front placket. While choosing the bottoms, select slightly slim and sleek bottoms such as churidars or leggings to complete the look. 
Pear Shaped Body 
The pear-shaped body types are one with full hips and thighs along with defined waist and narrow shoulders. Wearing lowers which are dark in color, teaming up with lighter Kurtis will draw attention to the torso. Necklines that have collar patterns, boat, or square cuts will enhance the look. For sleeves, one can go for a bishop and roughed arms. Straight-long Kurtis will add length to your body. 
Hourglass Shaped Body 
This body type includes a defined waist and bust along with the bottom and hips. With this body type, you can carry off the Kurtis of all types. Pair them with palazzos and or straight-line pants and you will get a stunning look. Do not go for ill-fitted Kurtis. A flared Kurti can be the best pick as it will give a fuller look. Additionally, a streamlined cut would prove to be perfect for this body type. 
Inverted Triangle Shaped Body 
This body type calls for a straight and squared shoulder line along with a smaller bottom. Choosing flared Kurtis that fit well on the bust and slightly low necklines that will take away the attention from broad shoulders. Sleeves in the raglan style create an illusion of an evenly distributed look throughout the body and would be perfect for this body type. Make sure that you go for longer Kurtis and layer them with Patiala or skirt. One can avoid anything with strong shoulder detailing or high necklines to shift to an appealing style. 
(Puja Gupta can be contacted at puja.g@ians.in) 
--IANS 
pg/tb/

New Delhi, April 4 (IANSlife) Fashion trends are constantly evolving and style enthusiasts are hooked to the latest collections and options that are available on online and offline clothing stores.

New Delhi, April 4 (IANSlife) Fashion trends are constantly evolving and style enthusiasts are hooked to the latest collections and options that are available on online and offline clothing stores. These traditional wears can swing from being maximalist to minimalist, going well with all body and skin types. However, the idea is to select the Kurti that can be easy to style and compliment the wearer without being overpowering. Below are some quick tips and guides by Anuj Mundra, Chairman and MD, Jaipurkurti.com based on each body type to nail the traditional look with manipulation of designs and colours. Apple Shaped Body If your upper body is wide compared to the lower body with rounded shoulders, average to big bust or fullness around the middle, it`s best to go for darker shades with cotton and silk fabrics as they do not cling to the body. Necklines that are V-shaped or embellished will tend to draw attention to the much-endowed bust. Flared and cuffed sleeves will help in highlighting the best assets while accentuating your best features. Banana Shaped Body Banana-shaped body or the rectangular body type, is an evenly proportionate shape, which means that the shoulders, hips, and waist are evenly proportioned. The size can vary from small to medium bust but the waist is not defined. The features for the right Kurti that will compliment this body type include a broad and deep neckline with a clinched waist. One can opt for panel detailing along with pleats and a front placket. While choosing the bottoms, select slightly slim and sleek bottoms such as churidars or leggings to complete the look. Pear Shaped Body The pear-shaped body types are one with full hips and thighs along with defined waist and narrow shoulders. Wearing lowers which are dark in color, teaming up with lighter Kurtis will draw attention to the torso. Necklines that have collar patterns, boat, or square cuts will enhance the look. For sleeves, one can go for a bishop and roughed arms. Straight-long Kurtis will add length to your body. Hourglass Shaped Body This body type includes a defined waist and bust along with the bottom and hips. With this body type, you can carry off the Kurtis of all types. Pair them with palazzos and or straight-line pants and you will get a stunning look. Do not go for ill-fitted Kurtis. A flared Kurti can be the best pick as it will give a fuller look. Additionally, a streamlined cut would prove to be perfect for this body type. Inverted Triangle Shaped Body This body type calls for a straight and squared shoulder line along with a smaller bottom. Choosing flared Kurtis that fit well on the bust and slightly low necklines that will take away the attention from broad shoulders. Sleeves in the raglan style create an illusion of an evenly distributed look throughout the body and would be perfect for this body type. Make sure that you go for longer Kurtis and layer them with Patiala or skirt. One can avoid anything with strong shoulder detailing or high necklines to shift to an appealing style. (Puja Gupta can be contacted at puja.g@ians.in) --IANS pg/tb/

The ultimate guide to slay that traditional look

At least 22 security personal have lost their lives in Chhattisgarh's Bijapur Naxal attack on Saturday.

"22 security personnel have lost their lives in the Naxal attack at Sukma-Bijapur in Chhattisgarh," said Bijapur Superintendent of Police, Kamalochan Kashyap.

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My thoughts are with the families of those martyred while fighting Maoists in Chhattisgarh. The sacrifices of the brave martyrs will never be forgotten. May the injured recover at the earliest.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1378369121969086475?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 3, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Around 31 sustained injuries in the encounter in Bijapur on Saturday, Chhattisgarh Police said. Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel on Sunday said the seven jawans injured in the Bijapur Naxal encounter on Saturday were now out of danger and rescue teams were searching for the 21 missing security personnel.

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I bow to the sacrifices of our brave security personnel martyred while fighting Maoists in Chhattisgarh. Nation will never forget their valour. My condolences are with their families. We will continue our fight against these enemies of peace &amp; progress. May injured recover soon.
— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) <a href="https://twitter.com/AmitShah/status/1378540240827150339?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 4, 2021</a></blockquote>
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"Seven injured security personnel who were shifted to Raipur are out of danger. 21 personnel are missing and rescue teams are searching for them," Baghel told ANI.

"I received a call from Union Home Minister Amit Shah. He has sent Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) Director-General to the state. I'll return to Chhattisgarh in the evening," the Chief Minister added.&nbsp;

At least 22 security personal have lost their lives in Chhattisgarh's Bijapur Naxal attack on Saturday. "22 security personnel have lost their lives in the Naxal attack at Sukma-Bijapur in Chhattisgarh," said Bijapur Superintendent of Police, Kamalochan Kashyap.

At least 22 security personal have lost their lives in Chhattisgarh's Bijapur Naxal attack on Saturday. "22 security personnel have lost their lives in the Naxal attack at Sukma-Bijapur in Chhattisgarh," said Bijapur Superintendent of Police, Kamalochan Kashyap. My thoughts are with the families of those martyred while fighting Maoists in Chhattisgarh. The sacrifices of the brave martyrs will never be forgotten. May the injured recover at the earliest. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 3, 2021 × Around 31 sustained injuries in the encounter in Bijapur on Saturday, Chhattisgarh Police said. Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel on Sunday said the seven jawans injured in the Bijapur Naxal encounter on Saturday were now out of danger and rescue teams were searching for the 21 missing security personnel. I bow to the sacrifices of our brave security personnel martyred while fighting Maoists in Chhattisgarh. Nation will never forget their valour. My condolences are with their families. We will continue our fight against these enemies of peace & progress. May injured recover soon. — Amit Shah (@AmitShah) April 4, 2021 × "Seven injured security personnel who were shifted to Raipur are out of danger. 21 personnel are missing and rescue teams are searching for them," Baghel told ANI. "I received a call from Union Home Minister Amit Shah. He has sent Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) Director-General to the state. I'll return to Chhattisgarh in the evening," the Chief Minister added.

Chhattisgarh: 22 security personnel killed in Bijapur Naxal attack

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is slated to visit France in May -- when he will be in Europe for the India-EU summit.

Modi will visit Portugal for the India-EU summit on May 8.

Modi had last visited France in 2019 -- as French President Emmanuel Macron's invitee for the G7 summit in Biarritz.

Ahead of the visit by the Indian prime minister, French foreign minister Jean-Yves Le Drian will be in India from April 13 to 15. He is scheduled to participate in the Raisina Dialogue and India-France-Australia foreign ministers trilateral meet.

Paris and New Delhi have recently increased engagement at multiple levels -- from dealing with Covid crisis to defence ties.

Indian ships will be a part of France-led La Perouse exercises in Bay Of Bengal from April 5 to 7. The exercise will involve France plus Quad naval ships coming together for the first time.&nbsp;

France has also delivered 21 out of 36 contracted Rafale jets to India. More deliveries are expected in April and May.

India's Europe focus will continue in the coming month as Modi is also expected to visit Denmark for the second India-Nordic summit.&nbsp;

The first such summit took place in 2018 in Stockholm.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Italy is scheduled to host a health summit in May, but chances are that the summit will take place virtually.&nbsp;

Italy is also host of the G20 summit -- on October 30-31.

Last year's G20 summit under Saudi Arabia's leadership was a virtual one -- due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

India will host the summit in 2023.

In addition to these, India is also on track to enhance ties with the UK.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson will visit India on April 26. And Modi will be in the UK for the G7 summit from June 11 to 13. He has already been invited for the United Nations Climate Change Conference summit that will take place in Glasgow in November.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is slated to visit France in May -- when he will be in Europe for the India-EU summit. Modi will visit Portugal for the India-EU summit on May 8.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is slated to visit France in May -- when he will be in Europe for the India-EU summit. Modi will visit Portugal for the India-EU summit on May 8. Modi had last visited France in 2019 -- as French President Emmanuel Macron's invitee for the G7 summit in Biarritz. Ahead of the visit by the Indian prime minister, French foreign minister Jean-Yves Le Drian will be in India from April 13 to 15. He is scheduled to participate in the Raisina Dialogue and India-France-Australia foreign ministers trilateral meet. Paris and New Delhi have recently increased engagement at multiple levels -- from dealing with Covid crisis to defence ties. Indian ships will be a part of France-led La Perouse exercises in Bay Of Bengal from April 5 to 7. The exercise will involve France plus Quad naval ships coming together for the first time. France has also delivered 21 out of 36 contracted Rafale jets to India. More deliveries are expected in April and May. India's Europe focus will continue in the coming month as Modi is also expected to visit Denmark for the second India-Nordic summit. The first such summit took place in 2018 in Stockholm. Meanwhile, Italy is scheduled to host a health summit in May, but chances are that the summit will take place virtually. Italy is also host of the G20 summit -- on October 30-31. Last year's G20 summit under Saudi Arabia's leadership was a virtual one -- due to the Covid-19 pandemic. India will host the summit in 2023. In addition to these, India is also on track to enhance ties with the UK. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson will visit India on April 26. And Modi will be in the UK for the G7 summit from June 11 to 13. He has already been invited for the United Nations Climate Change Conference summit that will take place in Glasgow in November.

Indian PM Modi to visit France in May; to engage with Denmark and Italy later this year

Not too far from the heart of Madurai city, is Krishnapuram Colony, which also goes by the name Weaver’s Colony, a reference to the primary vocation of those settled there. The community of handloom weavers hails from Saurashtra, which is the peninsular region of Gujarat, that covers nearly one-third of the western Indian state. The community from Saurashtra migrated to Tamil Nadu about 400 years ago and has made cultural capital of Tamil Nadu their home.&nbsp;

Having completely assimilated into Tamil culture and traditions, they are nearly indistinguishable from the population here, speaking in Madurai Tamil and dressed like those who’ve belonged here for ages. However, the community’s connect with their mother tongue remains as intact as ever. They say that every time they meet another person from their community and region, they would strike a conversation in their own language.&nbsp;

Of the nearly 300 families that live in the weavers colony, just about 200 of them have the traditional wooden handloom weaving equipment, which nearly occupies a 150 square feet room.&nbsp;

<img alt="Madurai weavers" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0c685441-354c-40c7-af74-3590c486772b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/loom.JPG" />

Haridas Vinayaga, a trader who has been closely associated with the handloom industry says that the younger generations have started moving to other professions and settling well in life.&nbsp;

“This art form is passed on from one generation to another, but today only the aged people continue it, as they are left with no other option for their livelihood. They are desperate for Government support,” he said.

In stark contrast from nearly 25 years ago, today their artistic work of handloom weaving of Cotton saris faces the threat of extinction. Over the last quarter of a century, the emergence of synthetic materials, machine-weaving looms and sales of handloom garments have dented their hopes of a better life and livelihood.&nbsp;

The weavers say that until the mid-1990s, the state government used to provide them raw material, and buy the finished saris, as a part of a cooperative system. But the government not only stopped buying from the handloom weavers, but they also started procuring machine-made saris, thus dealing a body blow. Since then, the community of weavers depend on private suppliers who sell them the raw material and later pay a paltry sum of Rs 200-250 for a handloom sari.&nbsp;

A family of four - Ganesh, Rajeshwari, Kannan and Dhanalakshmi are working at the looms setup in their homes. It takes nearly two days worth of effort by all of them to make a single sari that costs around Rs 1000, which is eventually sold in shops for over Rs 2500. The weavers lament that the intermediaries make a large share of the money under the current arrangement. They say that a family of four members must toil to make around Rs 8000 a month.&nbsp;

The major demands of the weaver families are a Geographic Indication (GI) tag for their products, authentication for genuine handloom saris, weaver’s minimum guarantee among others. They are hopeful that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will help their community that belongs to the home state of the Prime Minister himself.

On Friday, while campaigning for the NDA candidates in Madurai, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s speech was replete with references to leaders and cultural icons from the region. The NDA’s star campaigner had also touched upon this vibrant community from Saurashtra region, who had made Madurai their home over the last 400 years.&nbsp;

Not too far from the heart of Madurai city, is Krishnapuram Colony, which also goes by the name Weaver’s Colony, a reference to the primary vocation of those settled there.

Not too far from the heart of Madurai city, is Krishnapuram Colony, which also goes by the name Weaver’s Colony, a reference to the primary vocation of those settled there. The community of handloom weavers hails from Saurashtra, which is the peninsular region of Gujarat, that covers nearly one-third of the western Indian state. The community from Saurashtra migrated to Tamil Nadu about 400 years ago and has made cultural capital of Tamil Nadu their home. Having completely assimilated into Tamil culture and traditions, they are nearly indistinguishable from the population here, speaking in Madurai Tamil and dressed like those who’ve belonged here for ages. However, the community’s connect with their mother tongue remains as intact as ever. They say that every time they meet another person from their community and region, they would strike a conversation in their own language. Of the nearly 300 families that live in the weavers colony, just about 200 of them have the traditional wooden handloom weaving equipment, which nearly occupies a 150 square feet room. Haridas Vinayaga, a trader who has been closely associated with the handloom industry says that the younger generations have started moving to other professions and settling well in life. “This art form is passed on from one generation to another, but today only the aged people continue it, as they are left with no other option for their livelihood. They are desperate for Government support,” he said. In stark contrast from nearly 25 years ago, today their artistic work of handloom weaving of Cotton saris faces the threat of extinction. Over the last quarter of a century, the emergence of synthetic materials, machine-weaving looms and sales of handloom garments have dented their hopes of a better life and livelihood. The weavers say that until the mid-1990s, the state government used to provide them raw material, and buy the finished saris, as a part of a cooperative system. But the government not only stopped buying from the handloom weavers, but they also started procuring machine-made saris, thus dealing a body blow. Since then, the community of weavers depend on private suppliers who sell them the raw material and later pay a paltry sum of Rs 200-250 for a handloom sari. A family of four - Ganesh, Rajeshwari, Kannan and Dhanalakshmi are working at the looms setup in their homes. It takes nearly two days worth of effort by all of them to make a single sari that costs around Rs 1000, which is eventually sold in shops for over Rs 2500. The weavers lament that the intermediaries make a large share of the money under the current arrangement. They say that a family of four members must toil to make around Rs 8000 a month. The major demands of the weaver families are a Geographic Indication (GI) tag for their products, authentication for genuine handloom saris, weaver’s minimum guarantee among others. They are hopeful that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will help their community that belongs to the home state of the Prime Minister himself. On Friday, while campaigning for the NDA candidates in Madurai, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s speech was replete with references to leaders and cultural icons from the region. The NDA’s star campaigner had also touched upon this vibrant community from Saurashtra region, who had made Madurai their home over the last 400 years.

Madurai: Handloom weavers from Saurashtra demand govt support

More than 36.7 lakh COVID-19 vaccine doses were administered in the last 24 hours, the highest single-day coverage till now, the Union Health Ministry said on Friday.

India records massive surge in Covid-19 cases

India on Saturday recorded 89,129 new COVID-19 cases in a day, the highest daily rise in around six-and-half-months, taking the nationwide tally of infections to over 1.23 crore, according to the Union Health Ministry data on Saturday.

The death toll increased to 1,64,110 with 714 more fatalities in a day, also the highest since October 21.

The jump in cases reported on Saturday was the highest since September 20 last year when 92,605 new infections were recorded in a span of 24 hours.

Corresponding to the rapid surge in cases, the number of active cases too have registered a steady increase for the 24th day in a row with the tally reaching 6,58,909, which is 5.32?per cent of the total infections. The recovery rate has further dropped to 93.36 per cent, the data stated.

The active caseload was the lowest at 1,35,926 on February 12 and comprised 1.25 per cent of the total infections.

The number of people who have recuperated from the disease surged to 1,15,69,241, while the case fatality rate has dropped to 1.32 per cent, the health ministry data stated.

India's COVID-19 tally had crossed the 20-lakh mark on August 7, 30 lakh on August 23, 40 lakh on September 5 and 50 lakh on September 16 last year. It went past 60 lakh on September 28, 70 lakh on October 11, crossed 80 lakh on October 29, 90 lakh on November 20. The one-crore mark was breached on December 19 last year.

According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), 24,69,59,192 samples have been tested for COVID-19 up to April 2 with 10,46,605 of them being tested on Friday.&nbsp;

India on Saturday recorded 89,129 new COVID-19 cases in a day, the highest daily rise in around six-and-half-months, taking the nationwide tally of infections to over 1.

India on Saturday recorded 89,129 new COVID-19 cases in a day, the highest daily rise in around six-and-half-months, taking the nationwide tally of infections to over 1.23 crore, according to the Union Health Ministry data on Saturday. The death toll increased to 1,64,110 with 714 more fatalities in a day, also the highest since October 21. The jump in cases reported on Saturday was the highest since September 20 last year when 92,605 new infections were recorded in a span of 24 hours. Corresponding to the rapid surge in cases, the number of active cases too have registered a steady increase for the 24th day in a row with the tally reaching 6,58,909, which is 5.32?per cent of the total infections. The recovery rate has further dropped to 93.36 per cent, the data stated. The active caseload was the lowest at 1,35,926 on February 12 and comprised 1.25 per cent of the total infections. The number of people who have recuperated from the disease surged to 1,15,69,241, while the case fatality rate has dropped to 1.32 per cent, the health ministry data stated. India's COVID-19 tally had crossed the 20-lakh mark on August 7, 30 lakh on August 23, 40 lakh on September 5 and 50 lakh on September 16 last year. It went past 60 lakh on September 28, 70 lakh on October 11, crossed 80 lakh on October 29, 90 lakh on November 20. The one-crore mark was breached on December 19 last year. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), 24,69,59,192 samples have been tested for COVID-19 up to April 2 with 10,46,605 of them being tested on Friday.

India records 89,129 COVID-19 cases, 714 fatalities in a day, highest in over six months

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov will be in New Delhi on a two-day visit on April 5-6, with a focus on Russian President Vladimir Putin's India visit and Afghanistan. Lavrov will hold a meeting with his Indian counterpart External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar and call on Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

"On April 5th and 6th, Russian FM will visit New Delhi and hold talks with his Indian counterpart. They will discuss the current status of bilateral relations and preparation of the summit meeting, cooperation in fighting the pandemic" Russian foreign ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova announced.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/russian-foreign-minister-sergey-lavrov-to-visit-india-next-week-374518">Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov to visit India next week</a>

WION broke the story first on Wednesday, with all the details. This is the first visit of any top Russian government official to India this year.&nbsp;

Lavrov will be accompanied by the Russian special envoy on Afghanistan Zamir Kabulov. The development comes even as Moscow had hosted the troika plus talks--US, Russia, China and Pakistan on Afghanistan. India was not invited to the meet.&nbsp;

Earlier this year, India's foreign secretary Harsh Shringla was on a visit to Moscow during which he extended invitation to Lavrov to visit India. During FS's Moscow visit, a roadmap was decided on the high-level visits and engagement. The big focus will be the visit of Russian President Vladimir Putin for the annual India Russia summit. The summit could not happen last year due to the Covid pandemic.

Interestingly, from Delhi, Lavrov will be going to Islamabad from April 6 to 7, accompanied by Kabulov again. Zakharova said, "He is going to have talks with his Pak counterpart on the status of ties, and strengthening of trade, counter-terror and Afghanistan".

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov will be in New Delhi on a two-day visit on April 5-6, with a focus on Russian President Vladimir Putin's India visit and Afghanistan.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov will be in New Delhi on a two-day visit on April 5-6, with a focus on Russian President Vladimir Putin's India visit and Afghanistan. Lavrov will hold a meeting with his Indian counterpart External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar and call on Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. "On April 5th and 6th, Russian FM will visit New Delhi and hold talks with his Indian counterpart. They will discuss the current status of bilateral relations and preparation of the summit meeting, cooperation in fighting the pandemic" Russian foreign ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova announced. Also read | Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov to visit India next week WION broke the story first on Wednesday, with all the details. This is the first visit of any top Russian government official to India this year. Lavrov will be accompanied by the Russian special envoy on Afghanistan Zamir Kabulov. The development comes even as Moscow had hosted the troika plus talks--US, Russia, China and Pakistan on Afghanistan. India was not invited to the meet. Earlier this year, India's foreign secretary Harsh Shringla was on a visit to Moscow during which he extended invitation to Lavrov to visit India. During FS's Moscow visit, a roadmap was decided on the high-level visits and engagement. The big focus will be the visit of Russian President Vladimir Putin for the annual India Russia summit. The summit could not happen last year due to the Covid pandemic. Interestingly, from Delhi, Lavrov will be going to Islamabad from April 6 to 7, accompanied by Kabulov again. Zakharova said, "He is going to have talks with his Pak counterpart on the status of ties, and strengthening of trade, counter-terror and Afghanistan".

Russian foreign minister to arrive in New Delhi next week, with focus on Putin's India visit, Afghanistan

India reported 81,466 new COVID-19 infections on Friday, the highest daily number in six months, as several states were hit by a second wave of the coronavirus. 
 
Health ministry data showed the total number of cases surged to 12.3 million, making India the third-most hit country from the virus after the United States and Brazil. The number of those dead rose by 469 to 163,396. 
 
Vaccination drives have been intensified amid the recent surge of cases, and many states are considering imposing fresh curbs on the movement of people. 
 
Maharashtra, the western state that has been worst-hit from COVID-19 so far, reported as many as 43,183 new cases on Friday - it's highest since the pandemic spread to India in March 2020. Officials in the state-imposed a night curfew over the weekend but are considering stricter control measures, including shutting down religious places and restricting train travel. 
 
India imposed one of the world`s harshest lockdowns to control the coronavirus early last year, but it was eased to salvage the economy, and cases gradually fell later in the year. The new surge this year presents a challenge to the government, which already struggled to implement last year`s lockdown. 
 
Infection numbers were also up on Friday in the states of Chhattisgarh, Karnataka, Punjab, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh.

India reported 81,466 new COVID-19 infections on Friday, the highest daily number in six months, as several states were hit by a second wave of the coronavirus. Health ministry data showed the total number of cases surged to 12.

India reported 81,466 new COVID-19 infections on Friday, the highest daily number in six months, as several states were hit by a second wave of the coronavirus. Health ministry data showed the total number of cases surged to 12.3 million, making India the third-most hit country from the virus after the United States and Brazil. The number of those dead rose by 469 to 163,396. Vaccination drives have been intensified amid the recent surge of cases, and many states are considering imposing fresh curbs on the movement of people. Maharashtra, the western state that has been worst-hit from COVID-19 so far, reported as many as 43,183 new cases on Friday - it's highest since the pandemic spread to India in March 2020. Officials in the state-imposed a night curfew over the weekend but are considering stricter control measures, including shutting down religious places and restricting train travel. India imposed one of the world`s harshest lockdowns to control the coronavirus early last year, but it was eased to salvage the economy, and cases gradually fell later in the year. The new surge this year presents a challenge to the government, which already struggled to implement last year`s lockdown. Infection numbers were also up on Friday in the states of Chhattisgarh, Karnataka, Punjab, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh.

India reports six-month high of COVID-19 daily infections amid new curbs

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