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Authorities in India's western state of Maharashtra imposed night curfews on Sunday to tackle a record surge in COVID-19 cases with the financial capital Mumbai reporting 6,123 new cases, the highest single-day spike since March last year.

"We are seeing a higher COVID positive rate in high-rise residential buildings than in slums...to stop the spread only essential services will be allowed (at night)," said Mumbai Mayor Kishor Pednekar, adding that hotels, pubs and shopping malls must observe the night curfew rules.

Residential areas with five or more reported COVID-19 cases in the city have been ordered to be sealed off.

India recorded 62,714 cases of the coronavirus in the last 24 hours, the country’s Health Ministry said on Sunday, the highest single-day tally since mid-October last year. With 312 deaths, single-day fatalities were also at their highest since Christmas, according to ministry data.

Several government hospitals reported they were running out of critical-care beds in Mumbai city.

While Maharashtra leads the surge, several other states - Kerala, Punjab, Karnataka, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, Haryana and Madhya Pradesh - are also seeing a rise in cases.

In parts of the country, especially Delhi and Mumbai, authorities have imposed bans or restrictions on the Hindu festival of Holi and the Muslim "day of forgiveness", Shab-e-Baraat, which are both observed over this weekend.

Holi is usually celebrated with large gatherings in which people smear each other with colour, while Muslim men typically hold large prayer gatherings at mosques on Shab-e-Barat.

ELECTION SEASON

The surge in COVID-19 cases in India comes amid a vital election season, as the eastern state of West Bengal and Assam started voting for state assemblies on Saturday.

The elections will indicate how support for Prime Minister Narendra Modi is holding up after a year of the pandemic and months of mass protests over farm laws his government enacted late last year.

The export of COVID-19 vaccines is facing sharp criticism from many Indians. India is a major producer of vaccines and has supplied 61 million doses to as many as 77 countries as part of both grants and commercial arrangements.

The government said last week it has decided to focus on its domestic vaccination programme and there will be no immediate expansion of vaccine exports.

More than 40 million people have received at least one dose so far, less than 4% of the 1.35 billion population, according to official figures.

"The vaccination drive has to be scaled up massively, and test and trace and isolation protocols have to be strengthened across the country," said S.K. Sinha, a Health Ministry official.

Authorities in India's western state of Maharashtra imposed night curfews on Sunday to tackle a record surge in COVID-19 cases with the financial capital Mumbai reporting 6,123 new cases, the highest single-day spike since March last year.

Authorities in India's western state of Maharashtra imposed night curfews on Sunday to tackle a record surge in COVID-19 cases with the financial capital Mumbai reporting 6,123 new cases, the highest single-day spike since March last year. "We are seeing a higher COVID positive rate in high-rise residential buildings than in slums...to stop the spread only essential services will be allowed (at night)," said Mumbai Mayor Kishor Pednekar, adding that hotels, pubs and shopping malls must observe the night curfew rules. Residential areas with five or more reported COVID-19 cases in the city have been ordered to be sealed off. India recorded 62,714 cases of the coronavirus in the last 24 hours, the country’s Health Ministry said on Sunday, the highest single-day tally since mid-October last year. With 312 deaths, single-day fatalities were also at their highest since Christmas, according to ministry data. Several government hospitals reported they were running out of critical-care beds in Mumbai city. While Maharashtra leads the surge, several other states - Kerala, Punjab, Karnataka, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, Haryana and Madhya Pradesh - are also seeing a rise in cases. In parts of the country, especially Delhi and Mumbai, authorities have imposed bans or restrictions on the Hindu festival of Holi and the Muslim "day of forgiveness", Shab-e-Baraat, which are both observed over this weekend. Holi is usually celebrated with large gatherings in which people smear each other with colour, while Muslim men typically hold large prayer gatherings at mosques on Shab-e-Barat. ELECTION SEASON The surge in COVID-19 cases in India comes amid a vital election season, as the eastern state of West Bengal and Assam started voting for state assemblies on Saturday. The elections will indicate how support for Prime Minister Narendra Modi is holding up after a year of the pandemic and months of mass protests over farm laws his government enacted late last year. The export of COVID-19 vaccines is facing sharp criticism from many Indians. India is a major producer of vaccines and has supplied 61 million doses to as many as 77 countries as part of both grants and commercial arrangements. The government said last week it has decided to focus on its domestic vaccination programme and there will be no immediate expansion of vaccine exports. More than 40 million people have received at least one dose so far, less than 4% of the 1.35 billion population, according to official figures. "The vaccination drive has to be scaled up massively, and test and trace and isolation protocols have to be strengthened across the country," said S.K. Sinha, a Health Ministry official.

Maharashtra imposes night curfew after record COVID spike

In India, the number of daily COVID-19 cases has been on a steady and constant rise in recent days and it appears that another wave of COVID-19 is now looming in the country.

Coronavirus Update: India on the brink of second COVID-19 wave

Indian Prime Minister and his counterparts have signed 5 key agreements. The two sides signed five Memorandum of Understandings covering areas such as connectivity, commerce, information technology and sports.

PM Modi's Bangladesh Visit: Indian PM Modi and his counterparts sign 5 key agreements

Members of the United States Navy were recently witnessed singing a popular Hindi song at dinner with Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) on Saturday.&nbsp; On the same day, India’s Ambassador to the United States Taranjit Singh Sandhu met with the CNO, Michael M Gilday.

“Together, we will promote a free, open &amp; inclusive rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific and beyond. I look forward to our two navies’ continued cooperation”, Gilday tweeted.

The Navy sang the following in Hindi - "This is a friendship bond that cannot be broken ever”, echoing the state of relations between the United States and India.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Great to meet with India’s Ambassador to the United States <a href="https://twitter.com/SandhuTaranjitS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SandhuTaranjitS</a> today! Together, we will promote a free, open &amp; inclusive rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific and beyond. I look forward to our two navies’ continued cooperation. <a href="https://twitter.com/IndianEmbassyUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndianEmbassyUS</a> 🇮🇳🇺🇸 <a href="https://t.co/UJ8aopHjl0">pic.twitter.com/UJ8aopHjl0</a>
— USNavyCNO (@USNavyCNO) <a href="https://twitter.com/USNavyCNO/status/1375613959106088960?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 27, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
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The original song is called “Yeh Jo Des Hai Tera” and was performed by coveted musician AR Rahman for the soundtrack of the film “Swades” in 2004.

Watch the clip below

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<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
'ये वो बंधन है जो कभी टूट नहीं सकता! This is a friendship bond that cannot be broken ever.' 🇮🇳🇺🇸 
 
US Navy singing a popular Hindi tune <a href="https://twitter.com/USNavyCNO?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@USNavyCNO</a> 's dinner last night! <a href="https://t.co/hfzXsg0cAr">pic.twitter.com/hfzXsg0cAr</a>
— Taranjit Singh Sandhu (@SandhuTaranjitS) <a href="https://twitter.com/SandhuTaranjitS/status/1375937058229919744?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 27, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
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Cooperation between the United States and India has improved in the face of increased Chinese activity in the Indian Ocean, Indo-Pacific.&nbsp;

Recently, a grouping of four countries called “Quad” including India, United States, Japan, and Australia convened which was seen as signalling to China that their excesses in the region will not go unanswered.

The US also extended extensive support to Taiwan as it faces increasing threat of a Chinese invasion, with Chinese planes continuously breaching territorial borders.

Members of the United States Navy were recently witnessed singing a popular Hindi song at dinner with Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) on Saturday. On the same day, India’s Ambassador to the United States Taranjit Singh Sandhu met with the CNO, Michael M Gilday.

Members of the United States Navy were recently witnessed singing a popular Hindi song at dinner with Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) on Saturday. On the same day, India’s Ambassador to the United States Taranjit Singh Sandhu met with the CNO, Michael M Gilday. “Together, we will promote a free, open & inclusive rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific and beyond. I look forward to our two navies’ continued cooperation”, Gilday tweeted. The Navy sang the following in Hindi - "This is a friendship bond that cannot be broken ever”, echoing the state of relations between the United States and India. Great to meet with India’s Ambassador to the United States @SandhuTaranjitS today! Together, we will promote a free, open & inclusive rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific and beyond. I look forward to our two navies’ continued cooperation. @IndianEmbassyUS 🇮🇳🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/UJ8aopHjl0 — USNavyCNO (@USNavyCNO) March 27, 2021 × The original song is called “Yeh Jo Des Hai Tera” and was performed by coveted musician AR Rahman for the soundtrack of the film “Swades” in 2004. Watch the clip below 'ये वो बंधन है जो कभी टूट नहीं सकता! This is a friendship bond that cannot be broken ever.' 🇮🇳🇺🇸 US Navy singing a popular Hindi tune @USNavyCNO 's dinner last night! pic.twitter.com/hfzXsg0cAr — Taranjit Singh Sandhu (@SandhuTaranjitS) March 27, 2021 × Cooperation between the United States and India has improved in the face of increased Chinese activity in the Indian Ocean, Indo-Pacific. Recently, a grouping of four countries called “Quad” including India, United States, Japan, and Australia convened which was seen as signalling to China that their excesses in the region will not go unanswered. The US also extended extensive support to Taiwan as it faces increasing threat of a Chinese invasion, with Chinese planes continuously breaching territorial borders.

Watch: US Navy sings Hindi song from hit Bollywood movie 'Swades'

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has addressed the countrymen in his monthly radio program Mann Ki Baat on 28 March. This is the 75th edition of 'Mann Ki Baat'.

PM Modi's Mann Ki Baat: Indian PM Narendra Modi expresses gratitude to his listeners

Modernisation in the agriculture sector is the need of the hour as already a lot of time has been lost, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Sunday.

In his monthly Mann Ki Baat programme, Modi also hailed the world's largest vaccination programme being carried out in India against COVID-19, and stressed on "dawai bhi, kadai bhi" (medicines as well as strict preventive measures).

Asserting that adopting modern practices in the agriculture sector is imperative, he said in every aspect of life newness, modernisation is essential.

"In India's agriculture sector, modernisation is the need of the hour. It has been delayed and we have already lost a lot of time," the prime minister said in his 75th episode of Mann Ki Baat.

"In order to create new employment opportunities in the agriculture sector, to increase farmers' income, it is equally important to adopt new alternatives, innovations along with traditional agricultural practices," he said.

The country has witnessed this during the white revolution and bee farming is also emerging as one such alternative, he said.

The prime minister's call for embracing modern practices in agriculture comes at a time when hundreds of farmers have been camping at Delhi's border points at Ghazipur, Singhu and Tikri since November last year demanding that the Centre repeal the three contentious farm laws.

The government has maintained that these reform laws will boost farmers' income by bringing investment, modern practices and allow them to sell their produce anywhere across the country at best prices.

During his radio broadcast, Modi also recalled that in March last year the nation first heard about the Janata curfew.

The Janata curfew was imposed on March 22 last year on the prime minister's appeal.

"From very early on, the people of India have put up a spirited fight against COVID-19," he asserted.

Noting that around time last year, the question was whether there would be a vaccine for COVID-19 and by when would it be rolled out, Modi said it was a matter of pride that the world's largest vaccination drive is underway in India.

Modi also said that India's 'Nari Shakti' is excelling in the sports field and lauded the recent sporting feats of cricketer Mithali Raj and shuttler P V Sindhu.

On Mann Ki Baat completing 75 episodes, Modi said it seems like just yesterday when in 2014 "we began this journey" and thanked all the listeners.

"During Mann Ki Baat, we have discussed a wide range of subjects. We all have learnt so much. Diverse topics have been covered," he said.

Mann Ki Baat completes 75 episodes at a time when India is looking forward to marking our 'Amrut Mahotsav', Modi said underlining the importance of the celebrations of 75 years of Independence.

"The sacrifices of our great freedom fighters must inspire us to think about our duties as a citizen. This is something Mahatma Gandhi talked about extensively," he said.&nbsp;

Modernisation in the agriculture sector is the need of the hour as already a lot of time has been lost, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Sunday. In his monthly Mann Ki Baat programme, Modi also hailed the world's largest vaccination programme being carried out in India against COVID-19, and stressed on "dawai bhi, kadai bhi" (medicines as well as strict preventive measures).

Modernisation in the agriculture sector is the need of the hour as already a lot of time has been lost, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Sunday. In his monthly Mann Ki Baat programme, Modi also hailed the world's largest vaccination programme being carried out in India against COVID-19, and stressed on "dawai bhi, kadai bhi" (medicines as well as strict preventive measures). Asserting that adopting modern practices in the agriculture sector is imperative, he said in every aspect of life newness, modernisation is essential. "In India's agriculture sector, modernisation is the need of the hour. It has been delayed and we have already lost a lot of time," the prime minister said in his 75th episode of Mann Ki Baat. "In order to create new employment opportunities in the agriculture sector, to increase farmers' income, it is equally important to adopt new alternatives, innovations along with traditional agricultural practices," he said. The country has witnessed this during the white revolution and bee farming is also emerging as one such alternative, he said. The prime minister's call for embracing modern practices in agriculture comes at a time when hundreds of farmers have been camping at Delhi's border points at Ghazipur, Singhu and Tikri since November last year demanding that the Centre repeal the three contentious farm laws. The government has maintained that these reform laws will boost farmers' income by bringing investment, modern practices and allow them to sell their produce anywhere across the country at best prices. During his radio broadcast, Modi also recalled that in March last year the nation first heard about the Janata curfew. The Janata curfew was imposed on March 22 last year on the prime minister's appeal. "From very early on, the people of India have put up a spirited fight against COVID-19," he asserted. Noting that around time last year, the question was whether there would be a vaccine for COVID-19 and by when would it be rolled out, Modi said it was a matter of pride that the world's largest vaccination drive is underway in India. Modi also said that India's 'Nari Shakti' is excelling in the sports field and lauded the recent sporting feats of cricketer Mithali Raj and shuttler P V Sindhu. On Mann Ki Baat completing 75 episodes, Modi said it seems like just yesterday when in 2014 "we began this journey" and thanked all the listeners. "During Mann Ki Baat, we have discussed a wide range of subjects. We all have learnt so much. Diverse topics have been covered," he said. Mann Ki Baat completes 75 episodes at a time when India is looking forward to marking our 'Amrut Mahotsav', Modi said underlining the importance of the celebrations of 75 years of Independence. "The sacrifices of our great freedom fighters must inspire us to think about our duties as a citizen. This is something Mahatma Gandhi talked about extensively," he said.

Modernisation need of hour in agriculture sector, Indian PM Modi says

PM Modi was in Bangladesh for a two-day visit on March 26-27 to attend the celebration of that country's 50th year of liberation from Pakistan and the centenary year of its founder Sheikh Mujibur Rehman, Premier Sheikh Hasina's father. The two countries are also celebrating 50 years of the establishment of diplomatic ties.

HIGHLIGHTS: Indian PM Modi's visit to Bangladesh

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday handed over a representational key of 109 life-saving ambulances to his Bangladesh counterpart Sheikh Hasina in Dhaka.&nbsp;

During the delegation-level meeting, he also handed over a representational item to Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina as a symbol of India's gift of 1.2 million Covid vaccine doses.&nbsp;

"Relationship going from strength to strength! Prime Minister @narendramodi and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina discussed the progress achieved in areas of health, trade, connectivity, energy, developmental cooperation and many more," wrote the Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Arindam Bagchi on Twitter.&nbsp;

"Reiterating the highest priority India attaches to Bangladesh under India's #NeighbourhoodFirst Policy! Prime Minister @narendramodi and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina are together for a bilateral meeting," the spokesperson wrote earlier.&nbsp;

Hasina presented a gold and a silver coin released on the occasion of the birth centenary of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman to PM Modi. She also handed over a silver coin released on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of Bangladesh's Independence.&nbsp;

Along with that, an exchange of MoUs between India and Bangladesh also took place in the presence of the two leaders. Earlier today, the Prime Minister visited Orakandi Temple and addressed a gathering. "Both India and Bangladesh want to see the world progressing through their own progress. Both the nations want to see stability, love, and peace in the world instead of instability, terror and unrest," he said. &nbsp;

After delegation-level talks with his Bangladeshi counterpart Sheikh Hasina, Prime Minister Narendra Modi also called on Bangladesh President Abdul Hamid.&nbsp;

The Prime Minister, who arrived in Bangladesh on Friday, is on a two-day visit to the neighbouring country. He also offered prayers at the Orakandi Temple located at Kashiani Upazila in the Gopalganj district of Bangladesh. &nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also offered prayers at the Jeshoreshwari Kali Temple. Dedicated to Goddess Kali, Jeshoreshwari Kali Temple is a famous Hindu temple located in Ishwaripur, a village in Shyam Nagar, Upazila of Satkhira. It is one of the 51 Shakti Peeths, scattered across India and neighbouring countries. &nbsp;

The Prime Minister also informed that the Indian government will undertake the construction work of a multi-purpose community hall at Jeshoreshwari Kali Temple. &nbsp;

After that, he paid tribute to Bangladesh's 'Father of the Nation' Sheikh Mujibur Rahman at Bangabandhu Mausoleum Complex, Tungipara. He signed the visitors' book and also planted samples at the complex. PM Modi was accompanied by his Bangladeshi counterpart Sheikh Hasina during his visit to the complex.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with several community leaders, including representatives of minorities in Bangladesh, mukhtijoddhas, friends of India and youth icons on the first day of his visit.&nbsp;

The Prime Minister received a warm welcome from the Indian diaspora as he marked his first foreign visit since the Covid-19 outbreak. Soon after he arrived in Dhaka, he visited the National Martyrs' Memorial (Jatiyo Sriti Shoudho), the National monument of Bangladesh to pay tributes to the valour and the sacrifice of those who gave their lives in the Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971. He also planted a sapling of Arjun tree at the memorial premises and signed the visitor's book in the monument, MEA informed.&nbsp;

PM Modi's visit comes as Bangladesh is celebrating its 50th Independence Day and the centennial birth anniversary of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday handed over a representational key of 109 life-saving ambulances to his Bangladesh counterpart Sheikh Hasina in Dhaka. During the delegation-level meeting, he also handed over a representational item to Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina as a symbol of India's gift of 1.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday handed over a representational key of 109 life-saving ambulances to his Bangladesh counterpart Sheikh Hasina in Dhaka. During the delegation-level meeting, he also handed over a representational item to Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina as a symbol of India's gift of 1.2 million Covid vaccine doses. "Relationship going from strength to strength! Prime Minister @narendramodi and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina discussed the progress achieved in areas of health, trade, connectivity, energy, developmental cooperation and many more," wrote the Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Arindam Bagchi on Twitter. "Reiterating the highest priority India attaches to Bangladesh under India's #NeighbourhoodFirst Policy! Prime Minister @narendramodi and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina are together for a bilateral meeting," the spokesperson wrote earlier. Hasina presented a gold and a silver coin released on the occasion of the birth centenary of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman to PM Modi. She also handed over a silver coin released on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of Bangladesh's Independence. Along with that, an exchange of MoUs between India and Bangladesh also took place in the presence of the two leaders. Earlier today, the Prime Minister visited Orakandi Temple and addressed a gathering. "Both India and Bangladesh want to see the world progressing through their own progress. Both the nations want to see stability, love, and peace in the world instead of instability, terror and unrest," he said. After delegation-level talks with his Bangladeshi counterpart Sheikh Hasina, Prime Minister Narendra Modi also called on Bangladesh President Abdul Hamid. The Prime Minister, who arrived in Bangladesh on Friday, is on a two-day visit to the neighbouring country. He also offered prayers at the Orakandi Temple located at Kashiani Upazila in the Gopalganj district of Bangladesh. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also offered prayers at the Jeshoreshwari Kali Temple. Dedicated to Goddess Kali, Jeshoreshwari Kali Temple is a famous Hindu temple located in Ishwaripur, a village in Shyam Nagar, Upazila of Satkhira. It is one of the 51 Shakti Peeths, scattered across India and neighbouring countries. The Prime Minister also informed that the Indian government will undertake the construction work of a multi-purpose community hall at Jeshoreshwari Kali Temple. After that, he paid tribute to Bangladesh's 'Father of the Nation' Sheikh Mujibur Rahman at Bangabandhu Mausoleum Complex, Tungipara. He signed the visitors' book and also planted samples at the complex. PM Modi was accompanied by his Bangladeshi counterpart Sheikh Hasina during his visit to the complex. Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with several community leaders, including representatives of minorities in Bangladesh, mukhtijoddhas, friends of India and youth icons on the first day of his visit. The Prime Minister received a warm welcome from the Indian diaspora as he marked his first foreign visit since the Covid-19 outbreak. Soon after he arrived in Dhaka, he visited the National Martyrs' Memorial (Jatiyo Sriti Shoudho), the National monument of Bangladesh to pay tributes to the valour and the sacrifice of those who gave their lives in the Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971. He also planted a sapling of Arjun tree at the memorial premises and signed the visitor's book in the monument, MEA informed. PM Modi's visit comes as Bangladesh is celebrating its 50th Independence Day and the centennial birth anniversary of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. (With inputs from agencies)

After exchanging MoUs, PM Modi hands over Covid-19 vaccines to Bangladesh  

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said that both India and Bangladesh want to see peace, stability, and love instead of instability, terror and unrest in the entire world.&nbsp;

Addressing the Matua community after visiting the Orakandi Temple, PM Modi, said, "Both India and Bangladesh want to see the world progressing through their own progress. Both the nations want to see stability, love, and peace in the world instead of instability, terror and unrest."&nbsp;

"During the coronavirus pandemic, India and Bangladesh have proven their capabilities. Today, both nations are facing this pandemic strongly and fighting it together. India is working by considering it its duty that 'Made in India' vaccine reaches the citizens of Bangladesh," he said.&nbsp;

Speaking about Harichand Thakur, also known as Sri Sri Harichand Thakur, who formed the Matua sect of Hindus, PM Modi said, "The life of Sri Sri Harichand Thakur has given the message of divine love, but also made us realise our duties. He told us that the struggle against oppression and misery is also cultivation." &nbsp;

"His successor, Sri Sri Guruchand Thakur has a huge role in bringing the teachings of Harichand Thakur to the people, uniting the Dalit-afflicted society. Guruchand ji gave us the formula of devotion, deed, and knowledge," he added.&nbsp;

"Our siblings of Matua community celebrate 'Baruni Snan Utsav' every year on the auspicious occasion of the birth anniversary of Sri Sri Harichand Thakur. A large number of devotees from India come to Orakandi to participate in this festival," he added.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also offered prayers at the Orakandi Temple located at Kashiani Upazila in the Gopalganj district of Bangladesh. &nbsp;

Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Modi offered prayers at the Jeshoreshwari Kali Temple. Dedicated to Goddess Kali, Jeshoreshwari Kali Temple is a famous Hindu temple located in Ishwaripur, a village in Shyam Nagar, Upazila of Satkhira. It is one of the 51 Shakti Peeths, scattered across India and neighbouring countries.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also informed that the Indian government will undertake the construction work of a multi-purpose community hall at Jeshoreshwari Kali Temple.&nbsp;

After that, he paid tribute to Bangladesh's 'Father of the Nation' Sheikh Mujibur Rahman at Bangabandhu Mausoleum Complex, Tungipara. He signed the visitors' book and also planted samples at the complex. PM Modi was accompanied by his Bangladeshi counterpart Sheikh Hasina during his visit to the complex. &nbsp;

Later in the day, Prime Minister Modi will hold talks with Sheikh Hasina and they are likely to sign few key pacts. Thereafter, he will call on Bangladesh President Abdul Hamid. This is Prime Minister Modi's first foreign trip since the Covid-19 outbreak last year.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said that both India and Bangladesh want to see peace, stability, and love instead of instability, terror and unrest in the entire world.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said that both India and Bangladesh want to see peace, stability, and love instead of instability, terror and unrest in the entire world. Addressing the Matua community after visiting the Orakandi Temple, PM Modi, said, "Both India and Bangladesh want to see the world progressing through their own progress. Both the nations want to see stability, love, and peace in the world instead of instability, terror and unrest." "During the coronavirus pandemic, India and Bangladesh have proven their capabilities. Today, both nations are facing this pandemic strongly and fighting it together. India is working by considering it its duty that 'Made in India' vaccine reaches the citizens of Bangladesh," he said. Speaking about Harichand Thakur, also known as Sri Sri Harichand Thakur, who formed the Matua sect of Hindus, PM Modi said, "The life of Sri Sri Harichand Thakur has given the message of divine love, but also made us realise our duties. He told us that the struggle against oppression and misery is also cultivation." "His successor, Sri Sri Guruchand Thakur has a huge role in bringing the teachings of Harichand Thakur to the people, uniting the Dalit-afflicted society. Guruchand ji gave us the formula of devotion, deed, and knowledge," he added. "Our siblings of Matua community celebrate 'Baruni Snan Utsav' every year on the auspicious occasion of the birth anniversary of Sri Sri Harichand Thakur. A large number of devotees from India come to Orakandi to participate in this festival," he added. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also offered prayers at the Orakandi Temple located at Kashiani Upazila in the Gopalganj district of Bangladesh. Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Modi offered prayers at the Jeshoreshwari Kali Temple. Dedicated to Goddess Kali, Jeshoreshwari Kali Temple is a famous Hindu temple located in Ishwaripur, a village in Shyam Nagar, Upazila of Satkhira. It is one of the 51 Shakti Peeths, scattered across India and neighbouring countries. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also informed that the Indian government will undertake the construction work of a multi-purpose community hall at Jeshoreshwari Kali Temple. After that, he paid tribute to Bangladesh's 'Father of the Nation' Sheikh Mujibur Rahman at Bangabandhu Mausoleum Complex, Tungipara. He signed the visitors' book and also planted samples at the complex. PM Modi was accompanied by his Bangladeshi counterpart Sheikh Hasina during his visit to the complex. Later in the day, Prime Minister Modi will hold talks with Sheikh Hasina and they are likely to sign few key pacts. Thereafter, he will call on Bangladesh President Abdul Hamid. This is Prime Minister Modi's first foreign trip since the Covid-19 outbreak last year. (With inputs from agencies)

India, Bangladesh want to see peace, stability, love in entire world: Modi 

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Minister of Defence of Republic of Korea Suh Wook held bilateral talks and explored new domains in defence cooperation.&nbsp;

"The defence and security engagements between India and RoK have grown exponentially over the last few years. The latest talks explored new domains of bilateral defence cooperation and avenues to strengthen the long-standing bilateral defence partnership," read the official statement. &nbsp;

Both the Ministers exchanged views on the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on the defence and security engagements as well as best practices followed by the Armed Forces of both nations.&nbsp;

Rajnath Singh lauded the stellar contribution of RoK in the pandemic mitigation efforts. Both sides also expressed satisfaction over the commitment exhibited by diverse agencies of both countries to sustain structured annual dialogues at various levels of leadership through virtual means when travel and physical engagements became increasingly challenging during the ongoing pandemic.&nbsp;

"This has kept up the momentum of bilateral defence engagements. The Armed Forces of both countries hope to approach 2021 with renewed confidence," it stated.&nbsp;

Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat, Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Karambir Singh, Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal RKS Bhadauria, Chief of Army Staff General MM Naravane, Secretary (Defence Production) Raj Kumar and Secretary Department of Defence R&amp;D and Chairman Defence Research &amp; Development Organisation (DRDO) G Satheesh Reddy formed part of the Indian delegation during the talks, the statement read. &nbsp;

Earlier on Friday, Rajnath Singh and Suh Wook jointly inaugurated the India-Korea Friendship Park in a ceremony to mark the occasion at Delhi Cantonment. The park is a symbol of close relations between both countries and acknowledges the contribution of the Indian Army's Medical Mission during the Korean War.&nbsp;

The presence of distinguished guests from the Korean War Veterans Association during the inauguration ceremony was an acknowledgement of the event. Both the Ministers planted a sapling each to mark the momentous occasion. Suh Wook felicitated the Korean War Veterans Association of India General Secretary Anil Malhotra on the occasion. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Minister of Defence of Republic of Korea Suh Wook held bilateral talks and explored new domains in defence cooperation. "The defence and security engagements between India and RoK have grown exponentially over the last few years.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Minister of Defence of Republic of Korea Suh Wook held bilateral talks and explored new domains in defence cooperation. "The defence and security engagements between India and RoK have grown exponentially over the last few years. The latest talks explored new domains of bilateral defence cooperation and avenues to strengthen the long-standing bilateral defence partnership," read the official statement. Both the Ministers exchanged views on the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on the defence and security engagements as well as best practices followed by the Armed Forces of both nations. Rajnath Singh lauded the stellar contribution of RoK in the pandemic mitigation efforts. Both sides also expressed satisfaction over the commitment exhibited by diverse agencies of both countries to sustain structured annual dialogues at various levels of leadership through virtual means when travel and physical engagements became increasingly challenging during the ongoing pandemic. "This has kept up the momentum of bilateral defence engagements. The Armed Forces of both countries hope to approach 2021 with renewed confidence," it stated. Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat, Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Karambir Singh, Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal RKS Bhadauria, Chief of Army Staff General MM Naravane, Secretary (Defence Production) Raj Kumar and Secretary Department of Defence R&D and Chairman Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) G Satheesh Reddy formed part of the Indian delegation during the talks, the statement read. Earlier on Friday, Rajnath Singh and Suh Wook jointly inaugurated the India-Korea Friendship Park in a ceremony to mark the occasion at Delhi Cantonment. The park is a symbol of close relations between both countries and acknowledges the contribution of the Indian Army's Medical Mission during the Korean War. The presence of distinguished guests from the Korean War Veterans Association during the inauguration ceremony was an acknowledgement of the event. Both the Ministers planted a sapling each to mark the momentous occasion. Suh Wook felicitated the Korean War Veterans Association of India General Secretary Anil Malhotra on the occasion. (With inputs from agencies)

India, South Korea hold talks, explore new domains in defence cooperation

India reported 62,258 coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours, highest single-day spike since October, 2020, taking the total tally to 1,19,08,910 on Saturday. 
 
India has shown a steep rise since March 16 (24,492), March 24 (47,262), and March 26 (59,118). 
 
Cases have been increasing over the two weeks in leaps and bounds. According to the Health Ministry, Maharashtra and Punjab are turning out to be a major contributors. 
 
The central government is closely monitoring and actively engaging with states and union territories over the rising cases in the country. 
 
With death of 291 people in the last 24 hours, the toll touched 1,61,240 as the active caseload in the country mounted to 4,52,647. 
 
With the discharge of 30,386 patients in a day, a total of 1,12,95,023 persons have been discharged so far. 
 
As of date, 5.81 crore doses of corona vaccine have been administered in the country since the drive began on January 16 after approval for `Covishield` and `Covaxin`. 
 
Now, those over 45 years of age will also get Covid-19 vaccine from April 1, irrespective of the co-morbidities, the Central Government has announced.

India reported 62,258 coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours, highest single-day spike since October, 2020, taking the total tally to 1,19,08,910 on Saturday. India has shown a steep rise since March 16 (24,492), March 24 (47,262), and March 26 (59,118).

India reported 62,258 coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours, highest single-day spike since October, 2020, taking the total tally to 1,19,08,910 on Saturday. India has shown a steep rise since March 16 (24,492), March 24 (47,262), and March 26 (59,118). Cases have been increasing over the two weeks in leaps and bounds. According to the Health Ministry, Maharashtra and Punjab are turning out to be a major contributors. The central government is closely monitoring and actively engaging with states and union territories over the rising cases in the country. With death of 291 people in the last 24 hours, the toll touched 1,61,240 as the active caseload in the country mounted to 4,52,647. With the discharge of 30,386 patients in a day, a total of 1,12,95,023 persons have been discharged so far. As of date, 5.81 crore doses of corona vaccine have been administered in the country since the drive began on January 16 after approval for `Covishield` and `Covaxin`. Now, those over 45 years of age will also get Covid-19 vaccine from April 1, irrespective of the co-morbidities, the Central Government has announced.

India reports 62,258 new COVID-19 cases

PM Modi is in Bangladesh on March 26-27 to attend the celebration of that country's 50th year of liberation from Pakistan and the centenary year of its founder Sheikh Mujibur Rehman, Premier Sheikh Hasina's father. The two countries are also celebrating 50 years of the establishment of diplomatic ties.

HIGHLIGHTS: First day of PM Modi's historic visit to Bangladesh

India and its neighbouring country Bangladesh&nbsp;have a history forged in the battlefield.

The two countries&nbsp;share a border, dozens of rivers and&nbsp;most importantly,&nbsp;a common culture.

The key role played by India in the&nbsp;birth of Bangladesh cannot be overlooked&nbsp;and since then, despite roadblocks, the two countries have maintained close relations.

Here's a round-up of the bilateral ties between the two countries&nbsp;from inception to the present day:

Long before colonial cartographers chalked up South Asia,&nbsp;India and Bangladesh shared a common land.

In 1947, the country currently known as Bangladesh was called East Pakistan.

After 20 years of hardship, there were rumours of dissent that East Pakistan wanted independence.

The Indian army was welcomed as liberators in Dhaka.&nbsp;They had turned the tide against West Pakistani forces. They fought shoulder-to-shoulder with Bangladeshi freedom fighters. This joint campaign remains the cornerstone of bilateral ties after 50 years.

The next year,&nbsp;in 1972,&nbsp;Indira Gandhi visited Dhaka.&nbsp;The Indo-Bangladesh treaty of friendship, cooperation and peace was signed. Although the&nbsp;two sides looked set for bigger things, Mujibur Rahman's assassination in 1975 acted as&nbsp;a turning point.

The army took control and&nbsp;steered&nbsp;Bangladesh&nbsp;towards majoritarian politics. In 1991, democracy returned in the country along with warmer ties with India.

In 2010, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina visited New Delhi signalling&nbsp;a decade of booming relations.

According to a 2014 PEW&nbsp;survey,&nbsp;70 per cent of Bangladeshis have a favourable opinion of India. However, the&nbsp;ties have gone from symbolism to substance recently.&nbsp;It was a natural progression.

The&nbsp;two countries share a 4096-kilometre border and 54 rivers.&nbsp;

In 2015,&nbsp;India and Bangladesh signed the land border agreement. Both sides promised to exchange border enclaves. Thus settling a decades-long border confusion.

They set up a&nbsp;joint rivers commission&nbsp;in 1972.&nbsp;Both sides seldom agree on water-sharing. But the conflict remains inside the commission. In 1996,&nbsp;they signed a 30-year treaty on sharing water from the Ganga.

Bangladesh is currently India's biggest trade partner in the South Asian region.&nbsp;To strengthen and encourage Bangladesh's trade and commerce, India has given several concessions to Dhaka, including duty-free access to Bangladeshi products into the Indian markets.

New Delhi is also working continually to reduce Non-Tariff Barriers (NTB). To encourage trade, India is developing the Integrated Check Post in 10 border crossing points to lower NTBs, according to Observer Research Foundation. New Delhi's attempts to boost trade with Bangladesh saw fruitful results, as in 2019 Bangladesh's exports to India witnessed an increase of 43 per cent from the previous year.

Both countries are members of SAARC, BIMSTEC, the Indian Ocean Rim Association and the Commonwealth.

Recently, Bangladesh&nbsp;backed India's election to the UN Security Council. The armed forces from both sides regularly conduct joint drills like exercise Sampriti and Milan.

India has extended its hand of friendship whenever Bangladesh faced crises. During the coronavirus crisis, India provided medical training to Bangladeshi professionals, test kits and medicines, besides the dispatch of vaccine consignments.&nbsp;New Delhi gifted 2 million doses of the COVID&nbsp;vaccines to Dhaka,

The&nbsp;Teesta River is a point of contention for the two countries. While&nbsp;India claims 55 per cent&nbsp;of the river's waters, Bangladesh is unhappy with its share.

The Teesta river originates in Sikkim, flows through the northern parts of West Bengal, before entering Bangladesh and joining the Brahmaputra river.

The flow of the river is crucial for Bangladesh from December to March during which the country requires 50 per cent of the river's water supply.

Hundreds of illegal&nbsp;migrants&nbsp;cross the porous border&nbsp;putting economic pressure on India.&nbsp;New Delhi's plan to document illegal migrants and deport them&nbsp;is viewed with concern in Dhaka.

Bangladesh's participation in the China-led belt and road initiative is a cause of concern for India due to the&nbsp;growing closeness between a key ally and a strategic rival.

On Saturday, Prime Minister Modi will hold talks with his Bangladesh counterpart, Sheikh Hasina, when all issues related to bilateral concerns are expected to be discussed, according to Bangladesh foreign ministry officials.

India and its neighbouring country Bangladesh have a history forged in the battlefield. The two countries share a border, dozens of rivers and most importantly, a common culture.

India and its neighbouring country Bangladesh have a history forged in the battlefield. The two countries share a border, dozens of rivers and most importantly, a common culture. The key role played by India in the birth of Bangladesh cannot be overlooked and since then, despite roadblocks, the two countries have maintained close relations. Here's a round-up of the bilateral ties between the two countries from inception to the present day: Long before colonial cartographers chalked up South Asia, India and Bangladesh shared a common land. In 1947, the country currently known as Bangladesh was called East Pakistan. After 20 years of hardship, there were rumours of dissent that East Pakistan wanted independence. The Indian army was welcomed as liberators in Dhaka. They had turned the tide against West Pakistani forces. They fought shoulder-to-shoulder with Bangladeshi freedom fighters. This joint campaign remains the cornerstone of bilateral ties after 50 years. The next year, in 1972, Indira Gandhi visited Dhaka. The Indo-Bangladesh treaty of friendship, cooperation and peace was signed. Although the two sides looked set for bigger things, Mujibur Rahman's assassination in 1975 acted as a turning point. The army took control and steered Bangladesh towards majoritarian politics. In 1991, democracy returned in the country along with warmer ties with India. In 2010, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina visited New Delhi signalling a decade of booming relations. According to a 2014 PEW survey, 70 per cent of Bangladeshis have a favourable opinion of India. However, the ties have gone from symbolism to substance recently. It was a natural progression. The two countries share a 4096-kilometre border and 54 rivers. In 2015, India and Bangladesh signed the land border agreement. Both sides promised to exchange border enclaves. Thus settling a decades-long border confusion. They set up a joint rivers commission in 1972. Both sides seldom agree on water-sharing. But the conflict remains inside the commission. In 1996, they signed a 30-year treaty on sharing water from the Ganga. Bangladesh is currently India's biggest trade partner in the South Asian region. To strengthen and encourage Bangladesh's trade and commerce, India has given several concessions to Dhaka, including duty-free access to Bangladeshi products into the Indian markets. New Delhi is also working continually to reduce Non-Tariff Barriers (NTB). To encourage trade, India is developing the Integrated Check Post in 10 border crossing points to lower NTBs, according to Observer Research Foundation. New Delhi's attempts to boost trade with Bangladesh saw fruitful results, as in 2019 Bangladesh's exports to India witnessed an increase of 43 per cent from the previous year. Both countries are members of SAARC, BIMSTEC, the Indian Ocean Rim Association and the Commonwealth. Recently, Bangladesh backed India's election to the UN Security Council. The armed forces from both sides regularly conduct joint drills like exercise Sampriti and Milan. India has extended its hand of friendship whenever Bangladesh faced crises. During the coronavirus crisis, India provided medical training to Bangladeshi professionals, test kits and medicines, besides the dispatch of vaccine consignments. New Delhi gifted 2 million doses of the COVID vaccines to Dhaka, The Teesta River is a point of contention for the two countries. While India claims 55 per cent of the river's waters, Bangladesh is unhappy with its share. The Teesta river originates in Sikkim, flows through the northern parts of West Bengal, before entering Bangladesh and joining the Brahmaputra river. The flow of the river is crucial for Bangladesh from December to March during which the country requires 50 per cent of the river's water supply. Hundreds of illegal migrants cross the porous border putting economic pressure on India. New Delhi's plan to document illegal migrants and deport them is viewed with concern in Dhaka. Bangladesh's participation in the China-led belt and road initiative is a cause of concern for India due to the growing closeness between a key ally and a strategic rival. On Saturday, Prime Minister Modi will hold talks with his Bangladesh counterpart, Sheikh Hasina, when all issues related to bilateral concerns are expected to be discussed, according to Bangladesh foreign ministry officials.

India-Bangladesh ties: A warm friendship despite turbulence

India's worst-hit state Maharashtra, including its capital&nbsp;Mumbai, will be under a nightly curfew from Sunday following a sharp rise in coronavirus infections, officials said.

India as a whole has seen a renewed surge in new infections in recent weeks.&nbsp;Maharashtra in western India, home to around 110 million people, has seen the biggest rise, recording on Thursday more than 35,000 new infections in 24 hours, the highest yet.

Mumbai&nbsp;recorded over 5,500 cases on Friday, almost doubling its highest daily count of last year.

Maharashtra chief minister Uddhav Thackeray warned Friday of even stricter restrictions if people do not follow guidelines on social distancing and mask-wearing, local media quoted him as saying.

"I have no intention of imposing a lockdown, but given the growing number of patients, there is a possibility that the health facilities that we have set up on a large scale across the state will also be reduced," Thackeray said.

India has recorded almost 12 million infections, the third-highest behind the United States and Brazil, although per capita rates and the number of fatalities are considerably lower.

The renewed jump in cases has prompted India, which many other poorer countries were relying on for supplies including through the Covax initiative, to put the brakes on exports of vaccines.

India's worst-hit state Maharashtra, including its capital Mumbai, will be under a nightly curfew from Sunday following a sharp rise in coronavirus infections, officials said.

India's worst-hit state Maharashtra, including its capital Mumbai, will be under a nightly curfew from Sunday following a sharp rise in coronavirus infections, officials said. India as a whole has seen a renewed surge in new infections in recent weeks. Maharashtra in western India, home to around 110 million people, has seen the biggest rise, recording on Thursday more than 35,000 new infections in 24 hours, the highest yet. Mumbai recorded over 5,500 cases on Friday, almost doubling its highest daily count of last year. Maharashtra chief minister Uddhav Thackeray warned Friday of even stricter restrictions if people do not follow guidelines on social distancing and mask-wearing, local media quoted him as saying. "I have no intention of imposing a lockdown, but given the growing number of patients, there is a possibility that the health facilities that we have set up on a large scale across the state will also be reduced," Thackeray said. India has recorded almost 12 million infections, the third-highest behind the United States and Brazil, although per capita rates and the number of fatalities are considerably lower. The renewed jump in cases has prompted India, which many other poorer countries were relying on for supplies including through the Covax initiative, to put the brakes on exports of vaccines.

Maharashtra announces night curfew after sharp rise in COVID cases

India continues to witness a surge in new COVID-19 cases as 59,118 fresh infections and 257 deaths were reported in the country in the last 24 hours, the Union Health Ministry informed on Friday.

With fresh 32,987 recoveries, a total of 1,12,64,637 people have recovered from the diseases so far. The cumulative number of cases reached 1,18,46,652 including 4,21,066 active cases and 1,60,949 deaths.Maharashtra remains the worst affected state due to COVID as there are 2,64,001 active coronavirus cases in the state.

A total of 5,55,04,440 COVID-19 vaccine doses have been administered so far. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), 23,86,04,638 tests have conducted till March 25, of which 11,00,756 tests were done yesterday.

On Thursday, the Union Health Ministry informed six states including Maharashtra, Kerala, Punjab, Karnataka, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, and Madhya Pradesh are showing a steep rise in the daily new COVID-19 cases and have accounted for 81.63 per cent of the new coronavirus cases recorded in the country.

India continues to witness a surge in new COVID-19 cases as 59,118 fresh infections and 257 deaths were reported in the country in the last 24 hours, the Union Health Ministry informed on Friday.

India continues to witness a surge in new COVID-19 cases as 59,118 fresh infections and 257 deaths were reported in the country in the last 24 hours, the Union Health Ministry informed on Friday. With fresh 32,987 recoveries, a total of 1,12,64,637 people have recovered from the diseases so far. The cumulative number of cases reached 1,18,46,652 including 4,21,066 active cases and 1,60,949 deaths.Maharashtra remains the worst affected state due to COVID as there are 2,64,001 active coronavirus cases in the state. A total of 5,55,04,440 COVID-19 vaccine doses have been administered so far. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), 23,86,04,638 tests have conducted till March 25, of which 11,00,756 tests were done yesterday. On Thursday, the Union Health Ministry informed six states including Maharashtra, Kerala, Punjab, Karnataka, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, and Madhya Pradesh are showing a steep rise in the daily new COVID-19 cases and have accounted for 81.63 per cent of the new coronavirus cases recorded in the country.

India's new COVID-19 infections hit five-month high

As the COVID-19 cases in the country are surging, Union Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri on Friday said that the airport authorities have been directed to put passengers on the `no-fly` list if they do not follow the SoPs and guidelines to curb COVID-19.

Speaking to ANI, Puri said, "We can win the fight against COVID-19 but the negligence of some people is creating problems. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has been instructed to crack the whip."

"We can issue SoPs and guidelines in regard to COVID-19, some people are being careless. We have started putting people on the no-fly list," the Minister said.

"When you compare the air travel to surface route, travelling by buses or train, air travel is much safer," he added.According to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, India has reported 59,118 new COVID-19 cases, 32,987 recoveries, and 257 deaths on Thursday. "The UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Naagrik) scheme produced connectivity and affordability. We have fare-bands. The lower fare-band is a little more than that of the fare of the lower class AC car in a train," Puri told ANI.

"I am 100 per cent confident that the UDAN scheme is a roaring success. We are building another 100 airports. We have more than 300 operational routes which will be increased to 1000," Puri said.The Minister said that demand for airports has been increased and many airports are being privatised.

"The land for the development of an airport is to be provided by the state government. In Darbhanga Airport, earlier, there was no place to park the aircraft. Eventually, the facilities are increasing and by creating a bigger terminal and by getting more lands, we will be solving the problems," he added.

All flight operations at Darbhanga airport in Bihar commenced in November last night, which has been developed under the UDAN initiative.

UDAN is a regional airport development and "Regional Connectivity Scheme" of the Government of India which was started in April 2017.&nbsp;

As the COVID-19 cases in the country are surging, Union Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri on Friday said that the airport authorities have been directed to put passengers on the `no-fly` list if they do not follow the SoPs and guidelines to curb COVID-19.

As the COVID-19 cases in the country are surging, Union Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri on Friday said that the airport authorities have been directed to put passengers on the `no-fly` list if they do not follow the SoPs and guidelines to curb COVID-19. Speaking to ANI, Puri said, "We can win the fight against COVID-19 but the negligence of some people is creating problems. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has been instructed to crack the whip." "We can issue SoPs and guidelines in regard to COVID-19, some people are being careless. We have started putting people on the no-fly list," the Minister said. "When you compare the air travel to surface route, travelling by buses or train, air travel is much safer," he added.According to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, India has reported 59,118 new COVID-19 cases, 32,987 recoveries, and 257 deaths on Thursday. "The UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Naagrik) scheme produced connectivity and affordability. We have fare-bands. The lower fare-band is a little more than that of the fare of the lower class AC car in a train," Puri told ANI. "I am 100 per cent confident that the UDAN scheme is a roaring success. We are building another 100 airports. We have more than 300 operational routes which will be increased to 1000," Puri said.The Minister said that demand for airports has been increased and many airports are being privatised. "The land for the development of an airport is to be provided by the state government. In Darbhanga Airport, earlier, there was no place to park the aircraft. Eventually, the facilities are increasing and by creating a bigger terminal and by getting more lands, we will be solving the problems," he added. All flight operations at Darbhanga airport in Bihar commenced in November last night, which has been developed under the UDAN initiative. UDAN is a regional airport development and "Regional Connectivity Scheme" of the Government of India which was started in April 2017.

Passengers to be put on 'no-fly' list for violating COVID-19 norms in India

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi left for&nbsp;Dhaka for a two-day visit to Bangladesh on Friday morning. After his expected arrival in Dhaka at 10 am, he will attend an event at the National Martyr`s Memorial at 10:50 am. Thereafter, Bangladesh Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen will call on Prime Minister Modi at 3:15 pm.

Meanwhile, President Ram Nath Kovind has extended wishes to Bangladesh President Abdul Hamid.

"On behalf of the people of India and on my own behalf, I extend warm greetings and felicitations to Your Excellency, the Government and the people of Bangladesh on the occasion of your National Day. India and Bangladesh are celebrating 50 years of our exemplary and unique bilateral ties," Kovind said.

Later in the day, PM Narendra Modi&nbsp;will attend the National Day Programme at 3:45 pm. Prime Minister Modi will then inaugurate Bapu Bangabandhu Digital Video Exhibition at 7:45 pm.Prior to his departure, Prime Minister Modi said that he looks forward to having "substantive discussions" with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.&nbsp;

He will also call on Bangladesh President Abdul Hamid during the visit."I look forward to my participation at the National Day celebrations tomorrow, which will also commemorate the birth centenary of the Father of the Nation of Bangladesh, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/delighted-that-pm-of-biggest-democracy-is-joining-our-independence-celebration-bangladesh-fm-373221">Delighted that PM of biggest democracy is joining our independence celebration: Bangladesh FM</a>

Bangabandhu was one of the tallest leaders of the last century, whose life and ideals continue to inspire millions," he said in a tweet.The Prime Minister is also looking forward to visiting Bangabandhu`s Samadhi in Tungipara to pay his respects.&nbsp;

"I am particularly looking forward to my interaction with representatives of the Matua community at Orakandi, from where Sri Sri Harichandra Thakur ji disseminated his pious message. I will be having substantive discussions with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, following our very productive virtual meeting in December last year. I also look forward to my meeting with His Excellency President Abdul Hamid, and to interactions with other Bangladeshi dignitaries," he said.

He added, "My visit will not only be an occasion to convey appreciation for Bangladesh`s remarkable economic and developmental strides under Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina`s visionary leadership, but also to commit India`s abiding support for these achievements. I will also express India`s support and solidarity for Bangladesh`s fight against COVID-19."

Bangladesh Foreign Minister on Thursday said the people of Bangladesh welcome the visit of Prime Minister Modi. During his visit, the Prime Minister will also interact with diverse groups of Bangladesh`s polity and society.

During his visit, the Prime Minister will also interact with diverse groups of Bangladesh`s polity and society.

(With ANI inputs)

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi left for Dhaka for a two-day visit to Bangladesh on Friday morning. After his expected arrival in Dhaka at 10 am, he will attend an event at the National Martyr`s Memorial at 10:50 am.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi left for Dhaka for a two-day visit to Bangladesh on Friday morning. After his expected arrival in Dhaka at 10 am, he will attend an event at the National Martyr`s Memorial at 10:50 am. Thereafter, Bangladesh Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen will call on Prime Minister Modi at 3:15 pm. Meanwhile, President Ram Nath Kovind has extended wishes to Bangladesh President Abdul Hamid. "On behalf of the people of India and on my own behalf, I extend warm greetings and felicitations to Your Excellency, the Government and the people of Bangladesh on the occasion of your National Day. India and Bangladesh are celebrating 50 years of our exemplary and unique bilateral ties," Kovind said. Later in the day, PM Narendra Modi will attend the National Day Programme at 3:45 pm. Prime Minister Modi will then inaugurate Bapu Bangabandhu Digital Video Exhibition at 7:45 pm.Prior to his departure, Prime Minister Modi said that he looks forward to having "substantive discussions" with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. He will also call on Bangladesh President Abdul Hamid during the visit."I look forward to my participation at the National Day celebrations tomorrow, which will also commemorate the birth centenary of the Father of the Nation of Bangladesh, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. Also Read | Delighted that PM of biggest democracy is joining our independence celebration: Bangladesh FM Bangabandhu was one of the tallest leaders of the last century, whose life and ideals continue to inspire millions," he said in a tweet.The Prime Minister is also looking forward to visiting Bangabandhu`s Samadhi in Tungipara to pay his respects. "I am particularly looking forward to my interaction with representatives of the Matua community at Orakandi, from where Sri Sri Harichandra Thakur ji disseminated his pious message. I will be having substantive discussions with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, following our very productive virtual meeting in December last year. I also look forward to my meeting with His Excellency President Abdul Hamid, and to interactions with other Bangladeshi dignitaries," he said. He added, "My visit will not only be an occasion to convey appreciation for Bangladesh`s remarkable economic and developmental strides under Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina`s visionary leadership, but also to commit India`s abiding support for these achievements. I will also express India`s support and solidarity for Bangladesh`s fight against COVID-19." Bangladesh Foreign Minister on Thursday said the people of Bangladesh welcome the visit of Prime Minister Modi. During his visit, the Prime Minister will also interact with diverse groups of Bangladesh`s polity and society. During his visit, the Prime Minister will also interact with diverse groups of Bangladesh`s polity and society. (With ANI inputs)

PM Modi leaves for Bangladesh for a two-day visit

President Ram Nath Kovind is undergoing check-up at the Army's Research and Referral hospital here after complaining of chest discomfort on Friday morning, the hospital said.

It said he is undergoing routine check-up and is under observation.

"President of India visited Army Hospital (R&amp;R) following chest discomfort this morning. He is undergoing routine check-up and is under observation," the hospital said in a medical bulletin.

"His condition is stable," it added.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is currently on a two-day visit to Bangladesh, enquired about the President`s health. "PM Narendra Modi spoke to Rashtrapati Ji`s son. He enquired about the President`s health and prayed for his well-being," PMO tweeted.&nbsp;

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PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> spoke to Rashtrapati Ji's son. He enquired about the President's health and prayed for his well-being.
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/1375371124935065602?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
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President Ram Nath Kovind is undergoing check-up at the Army's Research and Referral hospital here after complaining of chest discomfort on Friday morning, the hospital said.

President Ram Nath Kovind is undergoing check-up at the Army's Research and Referral hospital here after complaining of chest discomfort on Friday morning, the hospital said. It said he is undergoing routine check-up and is under observation. "President of India visited Army Hospital (R&R) following chest discomfort this morning. He is undergoing routine check-up and is under observation," the hospital said in a medical bulletin. "His condition is stable," it added. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is currently on a two-day visit to Bangladesh, enquired about the President`s health. "PM Narendra Modi spoke to Rashtrapati Ji`s son. He enquired about the President`s health and prayed for his well-being," PMO tweeted. PM @narendramodi spoke to Rashtrapati Ji's son. He enquired about the President's health and prayed for his well-being. — PMO India (@PMOIndia) March 26, 2021 ×

President Kovind under observation at Army hospital after chest discomfort

Amid the surge of Covid-19 cases along with other mutated variants, India has reported the presence of a `double mutant` coronavirus variant, triggering fear among many. 
 
However, health experts on Friday said that the double mutant variant may be less dangerous than expected as the most vulnerable patients are having only mild illnesses. 
 
The experts emphasised that as per the current evidence, new variants are observed from few states. But, details about its epidemiology are yet to be known.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-confirms-new-double-mutant-coronavirus-variant-372926">India confirms new double mutant coronavirus variant</a> 
 
"There is no need to panic about the strains and mutation as it`s a completely natural and unavoidable process. Covid appropriate behaviour and accepting vaccines remains the solution for any strain," Harshal R Salve, Associate Professor at Centre for Community Medicine, All India Institute of Medical Science (AIIMS), New Delhi, told IANS. 
 
Also, they are hopeful that the present vaccines available may help us protect against the recently reported variant too. 
 
"There is a strong possibility that the vaccine may be effective in protecting against a new variant," said Neha Gupta, Infectious Diseases Specialist at Medanta - The Medicity Gurgaon. 
 
This week, the Union Health Ministry said that a total of 771 variants of concerns (VOCs) have been detected in a total of 10,787 positive samples shared by the states and union territories, including a new double mutant variant. 
 
These include 736 samples positive for viruses of the UK (B.1.1.7) lineage, 34 samples of the South African (B.1.351) lineage and one sample of the Brazilian (P.1) lineage. 
 
"Though VOCs and a new double mutant variant have been found in India, these have not been detected in numbers sufficient to either establish or direct relationship or explain the rapid increase in cases in some states," the Health Ministry said. 
 
The government said that an analysis of the samples collected from Maharashtra showed "an increase in the fraction of samples with the E484Q and L452R mutations" compared with December last year. 
 
"Such (double) mutations confer immune escape and increased infectivity," the health ministry said in a statement. 
 
These mutations have been found in about 15-20 per cent of samples and do not match any previously catalogued VOCs. 
 
These have been categorised as VOCs but require the same epidemiological and public health response of `increased testing, comprehensive tracking of close contacts, prompt isolation of positive cases and contacts as well as treatment as per National Treatment Protocol" by the states and Union Territories, according to the Health Ministry. 
 
According to Jeremy Kamil, a virologist at Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center Shreveport in the US, the E484Q is similar to E484K -- a mutation seen in the B.1.351 (South Africa) and P.1 (Brazil) variants, the BBC reported on Thursday. 
 
India reported 59,118 coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours, the highest single-day spike since October 2020, taking the total tally to 1,18,46,652 on Friday. Cases have been increasing by leaps and bounds for the past two weeks. 
 
With the death of 257 people in the last 24 hours, the fatality toll has reached 1,60,949 in India. The active caseload in the country has mounted to 4,21,066.

Amid the surge of Covid-19 cases along with other mutated variants, India has reported the presence of a `double mutant` coronavirus variant, triggering fear among many.

Amid the surge of Covid-19 cases along with other mutated variants, India has reported the presence of a `double mutant` coronavirus variant, triggering fear among many. However, health experts on Friday said that the double mutant variant may be less dangerous than expected as the most vulnerable patients are having only mild illnesses. The experts emphasised that as per the current evidence, new variants are observed from few states. But, details about its epidemiology are yet to be known. Also read| India confirms new double mutant coronavirus variant "There is no need to panic about the strains and mutation as it`s a completely natural and unavoidable process. Covid appropriate behaviour and accepting vaccines remains the solution for any strain," Harshal R Salve, Associate Professor at Centre for Community Medicine, All India Institute of Medical Science (AIIMS), New Delhi, told IANS. Also, they are hopeful that the present vaccines available may help us protect against the recently reported variant too. "There is a strong possibility that the vaccine may be effective in protecting against a new variant," said Neha Gupta, Infectious Diseases Specialist at Medanta - The Medicity Gurgaon. This week, the Union Health Ministry said that a total of 771 variants of concerns (VOCs) have been detected in a total of 10,787 positive samples shared by the states and union territories, including a new double mutant variant. These include 736 samples positive for viruses of the UK (B.1.1.7) lineage, 34 samples of the South African (B.1.351) lineage and one sample of the Brazilian (P.1) lineage. "Though VOCs and a new double mutant variant have been found in India, these have not been detected in numbers sufficient to either establish or direct relationship or explain the rapid increase in cases in some states," the Health Ministry said. The government said that an analysis of the samples collected from Maharashtra showed "an increase in the fraction of samples with the E484Q and L452R mutations" compared with December last year. "Such (double) mutations confer immune escape and increased infectivity," the health ministry said in a statement. These mutations have been found in about 15-20 per cent of samples and do not match any previously catalogued VOCs. These have been categorised as VOCs but require the same epidemiological and public health response of `increased testing, comprehensive tracking of close contacts, prompt isolation of positive cases and contacts as well as treatment as per National Treatment Protocol" by the states and Union Territories, according to the Health Ministry. According to Jeremy Kamil, a virologist at Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center Shreveport in the US, the E484Q is similar to E484K -- a mutation seen in the B.1.351 (South Africa) and P.1 (Brazil) variants, the BBC reported on Thursday. India reported 59,118 coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours, the highest single-day spike since October 2020, taking the total tally to 1,18,46,652 on Friday. Cases have been increasing by leaps and bounds for the past two weeks. With the death of 257 people in the last 24 hours, the fatality toll has reached 1,60,949 in India. The active caseload in the country has mounted to 4,21,066.

Is the 'double mutant' variant found in India more dangerous?

Japan on Friday finalised loans and a grant totalling around 233 billion yen (USD 2.11 billion) for several key infrastructure projects, including for the fourth phase of the Delhi Metro.

The financial assistance included a grant of 4.01 billion yen for a project for the improvement of power supply in strategically-located Andaman and Nicobar Islands, according to the Japanese Embassy.

It said notes on the loans and the grant were exchanged between CS Mohapatra, an additional secretary in the Department of Economic Affairs of the Finance Ministry, and Japanese Ambassador Satoshi Suzuki.

The grant of 4.01 billion yen is Japan's first ever official development assistance (ODA) to a project in the Andaman and Nicobar islands.

"Due to its geopolitical location, Andaman and Nicobar Islands play a crucial role in our shared vision for a free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific," an official from the Japanese Embassy said on the condition of anonymity.

"Cooperation between Japan and India on these crucial islands demonstrate the commitment of both countries to realising a stable, peaceful and prosperous Indo-Pacific," the official added.

Both India and Japan have been expanding cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region bilaterally as well as under the framework of the Quad grouping. Besides India and Japan, the Quad comprises the US and Australia.

The loans included 52.03 billion yen for phase two of the Bengaluru Metro Rail project and 119.97 billion yen for phase four of the Delhi Metro.

Japan has been supporting the Delhi Metro project from its beginning and has cumulatively extended 705,206 million Japanese Yen (approximately Rs 47,000 crore) in ODA loans since 1997.

According to the embassy, Japan has also decided to extend a loan of up to 11.30 billion yen for phase two of the Himachal Pradesh crop diversification promotion project.

The project aims at promoting agricultural productivity and sustainable crop diversification to higher-value crops and thereby improving farmers' income.

Another loan of 45.816 billion yen is being given for phase two of the Rajasthan rural water supply and fluorosis mitigation project.

The project aims at providing a sustainable and safe water supply by constructing water treatment plants and related facilities, including a vast distribution network in Jhunjhunu and Barmer districts in Rajasthan.&nbsp;

Japan on Friday finalised loans and a grant totalling around 233 billion yen (USD 2.11 billion) for several key infrastructure projects, including for the fourth phase of the Delhi Metro.

Japan on Friday finalised loans and a grant totalling around 233 billion yen (USD 2.11 billion) for several key infrastructure projects, including for the fourth phase of the Delhi Metro. The financial assistance included a grant of 4.01 billion yen for a project for the improvement of power supply in strategically-located Andaman and Nicobar Islands, according to the Japanese Embassy. It said notes on the loans and the grant were exchanged between CS Mohapatra, an additional secretary in the Department of Economic Affairs of the Finance Ministry, and Japanese Ambassador Satoshi Suzuki. The grant of 4.01 billion yen is Japan's first ever official development assistance (ODA) to a project in the Andaman and Nicobar islands. "Due to its geopolitical location, Andaman and Nicobar Islands play a crucial role in our shared vision for a free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific," an official from the Japanese Embassy said on the condition of anonymity. "Cooperation between Japan and India on these crucial islands demonstrate the commitment of both countries to realising a stable, peaceful and prosperous Indo-Pacific," the official added. Both India and Japan have been expanding cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region bilaterally as well as under the framework of the Quad grouping. Besides India and Japan, the Quad comprises the US and Australia. The loans included 52.03 billion yen for phase two of the Bengaluru Metro Rail project and 119.97 billion yen for phase four of the Delhi Metro. Japan has been supporting the Delhi Metro project from its beginning and has cumulatively extended 705,206 million Japanese Yen (approximately Rs 47,000 crore) in ODA loans since 1997. According to the embassy, Japan has also decided to extend a loan of up to 11.30 billion yen for phase two of the Himachal Pradesh crop diversification promotion project. The project aims at promoting agricultural productivity and sustainable crop diversification to higher-value crops and thereby improving farmers' income. Another loan of 45.816 billion yen is being given for phase two of the Rajasthan rural water supply and fluorosis mitigation project. The project aims at providing a sustainable and safe water supply by constructing water treatment plants and related facilities, including a vast distribution network in Jhunjhunu and Barmer districts in Rajasthan.

Japan to provide loans and grant of $2 billion for infra projects in India

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday hailed the bond between Indian and Bangladeshi soldiers who fought together during the 1971 Liberation War and said that the bond will not cower to any kind of pressure.

Addressing the celebration ceremony of that Bangladesh's 50th year of liberation from Pakistan, PM Modi said, “Today in Bangladesh, the blood of those who fought for their liberation and the blood of Indian soldiers are flowing together. This blood will form such a relationship that will not break down under any kind of pressure and will not fall prey to any kind of diplomacy… I also salute the brave soldiers of the Indian Army who stood with my brothers and sisters of Bangladesh in ‘Muktijuddho’ [Liberation War]. I am happy that many Indian soldiers who participated in the Bangladesh Liberation War are present at this event today.”

He said, “I would like to remind brothers and&nbsp;sisters in Bangladesh with pride, being involved in the struggle for independence of Bangladesh was one of the first movements of my life. I must have been 20-22 years old when I &amp;my colleagues did Satyagraha for Bangladesh's freedom.”

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bangladesh50?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bangladesh50</a> | "I must have been 20-22 years old when I, along with many of my colleagues, had done 'Satyagraha' for the freedom of Bangladesh. Being involved in the struggle for Bangladesh's independence was one of the first movements of my life," says PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> <a href="https://t.co/zjYfdEfZIa">pic.twitter.com/zjYfdEfZIa</a>
— WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1375417212849192963?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
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PM Modi also quoted former PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee in his speech. He said, "On 6 December 1971, Atal Ji had said -We aren't just fighting with people who're laying down their lives in the Liberation War, but we are also trying to give a new direction to history."

“Operation Searchlight and its violations haven't been discussed enough on global platforms. During this struggle, Bangabandhu was the ray of hope. His resilience and leadership had decided that no force would be able to stop the freedom of Bangladesh,” said PM Modi.

(With inputs from agencies)

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday hailed the bond between Indian and Bangladeshi soldiers who fought together during the 1971 Liberation War and said that the bond will not cower to any kind of pressure.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday hailed the bond between Indian and Bangladeshi soldiers who fought together during the 1971 Liberation War and said that the bond will not cower to any kind of pressure. Addressing the celebration ceremony of that Bangladesh's 50th year of liberation from Pakistan, PM Modi said, “Today in Bangladesh, the blood of those who fought for their liberation and the blood of Indian soldiers are flowing together. This blood will form such a relationship that will not break down under any kind of pressure and will not fall prey to any kind of diplomacy… I also salute the brave soldiers of the Indian Army who stood with my brothers and sisters of Bangladesh in ‘Muktijuddho’ [Liberation War]. I am happy that many Indian soldiers who participated in the Bangladesh Liberation War are present at this event today.” He said, “I would like to remind brothers and sisters in Bangladesh with pride, being involved in the struggle for independence of Bangladesh was one of the first movements of my life. I must have been 20-22 years old when I &my colleagues did Satyagraha for Bangladesh's freedom.” #Bangladesh50 | "I must have been 20-22 years old when I, along with many of my colleagues, had done 'Satyagraha' for the freedom of Bangladesh. Being involved in the struggle for Bangladesh's independence was one of the first movements of my life," says PM @narendramodi pic.twitter.com/zjYfdEfZIa — WION (@WIONews) March 26, 2021 × PM Modi also quoted former PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee in his speech. He said, "On 6 December 1971, Atal Ji had said -We aren't just fighting with people who're laying down their lives in the Liberation War, but we are also trying to give a new direction to history." “Operation Searchlight and its violations haven't been discussed enough on global platforms. During this struggle, Bangabandhu was the ray of hope. His resilience and leadership had decided that no force would be able to stop the freedom of Bangladesh,” said PM Modi. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian PM Narendra Modi recounts his ‘Satyagraha’ for Bangladesh liberation

Back in June 2014, the late Sushma Swaraj steered the diplomatic relations of India with its friendly neighbour on to an unfamiliar but familial road: the saree route.

It was her first standalone overseas visit after taking office as India's external affairs minister, and Swaraj, known for her knack of outwitting her opponents by sheer grace, and presence of mind, overwhelmed Bangladesh and its premier with the Indian warmth.

Prime Minister of Bangladesh, Sheikh Hasina, departed from protocol on June 26, 2014, and received Swaraj at the reception of her office. She hugged Swaraj and warmly greeted her.

Swaraj then presented an off-white saree to Hasina that she herself had chosen for her -- the start of sisterhood between two fierce and strong women.

Hasina reciprocated the gesture and gifted the famous Jamdani saree to Swaraj.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/happy-my-first-foreign-visit-after-covid-onset-is-to-friendly-neighbour-bangladesh-pm-modi-373192" hreflang="en">Happy my first foreign visit after COVID onset is to friendly neighbour Bangladesh: PM Modi</a>

This had come after Prime Minister Narendra Modi's shawl diplomacy -- wherein after his swearing-in ceremony in May, he gifted a shawl to the then prime minister of Pakistan, Nawaz Sharif, an invitee at the event. In a reciprocal gesture, Sharif gifted a saree to Modi for his mother.

<h6><img alt="aa" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5ded63a6-1ff9-4b21-bf08-c11bb852a2c7" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/oof%20%282%29_1.jpg" /> 
Image: Twitter</h6>

The 'saree diplomacy' -- as many term it -- however, bore a deeper significance for&nbsp; India and Bangladesh. It established the contribution of women into strengthening of diplomatic relations besides cementing bilateral ties.

The 'saree diplomacy' was furthered on the second day of Swaraj's visit when she was presented with two Jamdani sarees by Khaleda Zia, former prime minister and the chairperson of the main opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/delighted-that-pm-of-biggest-democracy-is-joining-our-independence-celebration-bangladesh-fm-373221" hreflang="en">Delighted that PM of biggest democracy is joining our independence celebration: Bangladesh FM</a>

"Madam Zia brought with her two Jamdani sarees as she called on the Indian external affairs minister – one was for Sushma Swaraj and another for her daughter," Zia's press secretary Maruf Kamal Sohel had said at the time.

Sheikh Hasina had then already made the right noises by asking Modi to consider Bangladesh as his second home. But the 'saree diplomacy' revolutionised the New Delhi-Dhaka relationship.

Sushma Swaraj had then described her three-day visit to Bangladesh as very "fruitful and successful".

Swaraj also handed over Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s letter to Hasina in which the Indian PM thanked his Bangladeshi counterpart for her felicitations and expressed his desire to work together to ”ignite collective surge to prosperity” in South Asia.

Besides meeting Hasina, Swaraj held wide-ranging discussions with her Bangladeshi counterpart AH Mahmood Ali. Her last engagement in Dhaka was a 45-minute meeting with Raushan Ershad of Jatiya Party, who was also the Leader of the Opposition in Parliament.

A talking point for Swaraj was India’s decision to relax visa norms for minors and senior citizens, and to supply to additional 100 MW power from Tripura.

Two other issues on the table were the Land Border Agreement, which had then been vetoed by the Assam government as well as the local Assamese unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party and the proposed Teesta water sharing agreement that had been vetoed by the then Mamata Banerjee-government in West Bengal.

Increase in the frequency of Dhaka-Kolkata Maitree Express and introduction of a bus service on the Dhaka-Shillong-Guwahati route also figured in the talks.

Sushma Swaraj rounded off her two-day visit to Dhaka with a prayer at the Dhakeswari National Temple.

Coinciding with Sushma Swaraj’s visit to Bangladesh, border guards of the two countries met near Siliguri on June 25, 2014 and started their three-day long border coordination conference.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/india-bangladesh-relations-a-robust-history-and-optimistic-future-372759" hreflang="en">India-Bangladesh relations: A robust history and optimistic future</a>

The 'saree diplomacy' of June, 2014 set the stage for more heart-to-heart talks between India and Bangladesh -- the most recent and the most anticipated one being Indian PM Modi's 2021 visit to Bangladesh.

Modi -- now in his second term as India's premier -- is visiting Bangladesh on March 26 and 27 on the invitation of Bangladesh PM Hasina. He will participate in the Bangladesh National Day celebrations on Friday.

The two prime ministers also held a virtual summit on December 17, 2020 -- in which Modi said Bangladesh was a key pillar of New Delhi's 'Neighbourhood First' policy, while Hasina described India as a "true friend".

The two countries also inked seven agreements to further broadbase cooperation in a plethora of sectors, and restored a cross-border rail link snapped by the 1965 war with Pakistan.

(with inputs from agencies)

Back in June 2014, the late Sushma Swaraj steered the diplomatic relations of India with its friendly neighbour on to an unfamiliar but familial road: the saree route.

Back in June 2014, the late Sushma Swaraj steered the diplomatic relations of India with its friendly neighbour on to an unfamiliar but familial road: the saree route. It was her first standalone overseas visit after taking office as India's external affairs minister, and Swaraj, known for her knack of outwitting her opponents by sheer grace, and presence of mind, overwhelmed Bangladesh and its premier with the Indian warmth. Prime Minister of Bangladesh, Sheikh Hasina, departed from protocol on June 26, 2014, and received Swaraj at the reception of her office. She hugged Swaraj and warmly greeted her. Swaraj then presented an off-white saree to Hasina that she herself had chosen for her -- the start of sisterhood between two fierce and strong women. Hasina reciprocated the gesture and gifted the famous Jamdani saree to Swaraj. Also read: Happy my first foreign visit after COVID onset is to friendly neighbour Bangladesh: PM Modi This had come after Prime Minister Narendra Modi's shawl diplomacy -- wherein after his swearing-in ceremony in May, he gifted a shawl to the then prime minister of Pakistan, Nawaz Sharif, an invitee at the event. In a reciprocal gesture, Sharif gifted a saree to Modi for his mother. Image: Twitter The 'saree diplomacy' -- as many term it -- however, bore a deeper significance for India and Bangladesh. It established the contribution of women into strengthening of diplomatic relations besides cementing bilateral ties. The 'saree diplomacy' was furthered on the second day of Swaraj's visit when she was presented with two Jamdani sarees by Khaleda Zia, former prime minister and the chairperson of the main opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party. Also read: Delighted that PM of biggest democracy is joining our independence celebration: Bangladesh FM "Madam Zia brought with her two Jamdani sarees as she called on the Indian external affairs minister – one was for Sushma Swaraj and another for her daughter," Zia's press secretary Maruf Kamal Sohel had said at the time. Sheikh Hasina had then already made the right noises by asking Modi to consider Bangladesh as his second home. But the 'saree diplomacy' revolutionised the New Delhi-Dhaka relationship. Sushma Swaraj had then described her three-day visit to Bangladesh as very "fruitful and successful". Swaraj also handed over Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s letter to Hasina in which the Indian PM thanked his Bangladeshi counterpart for her felicitations and expressed his desire to work together to ”ignite collective surge to prosperity” in South Asia. Besides meeting Hasina, Swaraj held wide-ranging discussions with her Bangladeshi counterpart AH Mahmood Ali. Her last engagement in Dhaka was a 45-minute meeting with Raushan Ershad of Jatiya Party, who was also the Leader of the Opposition in Parliament. A talking point for Swaraj was India’s decision to relax visa norms for minors and senior citizens, and to supply to additional 100 MW power from Tripura. Two other issues on the table were the Land Border Agreement, which had then been vetoed by the Assam government as well as the local Assamese unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party and the proposed Teesta water sharing agreement that had been vetoed by the then Mamata Banerjee-government in West Bengal. Increase in the frequency of Dhaka-Kolkata Maitree Express and introduction of a bus service on the Dhaka-Shillong-Guwahati route also figured in the talks. Sushma Swaraj rounded off her two-day visit to Dhaka with a prayer at the Dhakeswari National Temple. Coinciding with Sushma Swaraj’s visit to Bangladesh, border guards of the two countries met near Siliguri on June 25, 2014 and started their three-day long border coordination conference. Also read: India-Bangladesh relations: A robust history and optimistic future The 'saree diplomacy' of June, 2014 set the stage for more heart-to-heart talks between India and Bangladesh -- the most recent and the most anticipated one being Indian PM Modi's 2021 visit to Bangladesh. Modi -- now in his second term as India's premier -- is visiting Bangladesh on March 26 and 27 on the invitation of Bangladesh PM Hasina. He will participate in the Bangladesh National Day celebrations on Friday. The two prime ministers also held a virtual summit on December 17, 2020 -- in which Modi said Bangladesh was a key pillar of New Delhi's 'Neighbourhood First' policy, while Hasina described India as a "true friend". The two countries also inked seven agreements to further broadbase cooperation in a plethora of sectors, and restored a cross-border rail link snapped by the 1965 war with Pakistan. (with inputs from agencies)

When India-Bangladesh diplomacy took the saree route

Elections in Tamil Nadu are an exciting time, with most mainstream political parties promising everything other than the sun and moon, as freebies.&nbsp;

Some promises by mainstream parties have included gold, livestock, mobile phones, TVs, fans, mixer-grinders, Washing machines, LPG cylinders, solar cooktops and what not! But this time around, an independent candidate from Madurai South has promised the moon, literally!

iPhone for all, 3-storey house with swimming pool, annual dole of Rs 1cr per house, car worth Rs20lakhs, small-size helicopter for every home, robot to perform household chores, 100 sovereigns of gold when girls are married off, funding of Rs1.cr for young entrepreneurs, Rs.10lakhs a month for differently abled, one boat per house, a 100-day trip to the moon, 300-feet artificial snow-clad mountain to keep the constituency cool, space research center and rocket launching facility are the promises put out by R. Saravanan, the independent candidate.&nbsp;

His poster with the list of gigantic promises is the talk of the town. But, before you decide to move to Madurai South Assembly constituency, there’s a catch and Zee Media spoke to Saravanan to understand what it is.&nbsp;

“Our mainstream parties have been promising freebies and coming to power and they ditch the people once elected. Why don’t they promise all this while in power? Sadly, our people are falling for this freebie gimmicks and I wanted to create awareness about this freebie culture” he says.&nbsp;

When asked about where this idea stemmed from, he said, all parties were promising freebies and that he wanted to take it to the next level. “I wanted to create awareness among the people of Tamil Nadu and urge them to vote for those candidates who would serve people, rather than the freebies that big parties promise”, he adds.&nbsp;

Contesting in his maiden poll, Saravanan says that he decided to lead by example and take the plunge into politics, as even the well educated lawyers and professionals were afraid and did not know the procedure to contest. He’ll be up against candidates from the DMK alliance, the AIADMK and AMMK, in Madurai South.On his unique polls symbol dustbin, he says it was the only option available after they didn’t get the Vel (spear) or weighing balance symbol that he had asked for. “We’d like to clean up the literal (corruption, bribes) and political mess that Madurai has been reduced to” he says.&nbsp;

When asked if he really would deliver on these promises if voted to power, he says laughingly, “it might sound a little difficult, but it’s possible, I told my family also the same thing”.

Elections in Tamil Nadu are an exciting time, with most mainstream political parties promising everything other than the sun and moon, as freebies. Some promises by mainstream parties have included gold, livestock, mobile phones, TVs, fans, mixer-grinders, Washing machines, LPG cylinders, solar cooktops and what not!

Elections in Tamil Nadu are an exciting time, with most mainstream political parties promising everything other than the sun and moon, as freebies. Some promises by mainstream parties have included gold, livestock, mobile phones, TVs, fans, mixer-grinders, Washing machines, LPG cylinders, solar cooktops and what not! But this time around, an independent candidate from Madurai South has promised the moon, literally! iPhone for all, 3-storey house with swimming pool, annual dole of Rs 1cr per house, car worth Rs20lakhs, small-size helicopter for every home, robot to perform household chores, 100 sovereigns of gold when girls are married off, funding of Rs1.cr for young entrepreneurs, Rs.10lakhs a month for differently abled, one boat per house, a 100-day trip to the moon, 300-feet artificial snow-clad mountain to keep the constituency cool, space research center and rocket launching facility are the promises put out by R. Saravanan, the independent candidate. His poster with the list of gigantic promises is the talk of the town. But, before you decide to move to Madurai South Assembly constituency, there’s a catch and Zee Media spoke to Saravanan to understand what it is. “Our mainstream parties have been promising freebies and coming to power and they ditch the people once elected. Why don’t they promise all this while in power? Sadly, our people are falling for this freebie gimmicks and I wanted to create awareness about this freebie culture” he says. When asked about where this idea stemmed from, he said, all parties were promising freebies and that he wanted to take it to the next level. “I wanted to create awareness among the people of Tamil Nadu and urge them to vote for those candidates who would serve people, rather than the freebies that big parties promise”, he adds. Contesting in his maiden poll, Saravanan says that he decided to lead by example and take the plunge into politics, as even the well educated lawyers and professionals were afraid and did not know the procedure to contest. He’ll be up against candidates from the DMK alliance, the AIADMK and AMMK, in Madurai South.On his unique polls symbol dustbin, he says it was the only option available after they didn’t get the Vel (spear) or weighing balance symbol that he had asked for. “We’d like to clean up the literal (corruption, bribes) and political mess that Madurai has been reduced to” he says. When asked if he really would deliver on these promises if voted to power, he says laughingly, “it might sound a little difficult, but it’s possible, I told my family also the same thing”.

Moon trip, Rs 1cr per year, 3-storey house, Car, iPhone, 100 sovereigns gold: Madurai independent candidate’s promises 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said he will hold "substantive discussions" with his Bangladeshi counterpart Sheikh Hasina during his two-day visit to Bangladesh, as he expressed happiness that his first foreign tour after the onset of COVID-19 pandemic will be to a friendly neighbouring country with which India shares deep ties.

Modi said he will be visiting Bangladesh on March 26-27 at the invitation of Prime Minister Hasina, and looks forward to his participation at the Bangladesh National Day celebrations on Friday.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/india-bangladesh-relations-a-robust-history-and-optimistic-future-372759" hreflang="en">India-Bangladesh relations: A robust history and optimistic future</a>

In his departure statement, he said, "I am happy that my first foreign visit after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic will be to our friendly neighbouring country, with which India shares deep cultural, linguistic and people-to-people ties."

Noting that Bangladesh's National Day celebrations on Friday will commemorate the birth centenary of the Father of the Nation of Bangladesh, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, Modi said 'Bangabandhu' was one of the tallest leaders of the last century, whose life and ideals continue to inspire millions.

"I look forward to visiting Bangabandhu's Samadhi in Tungipara to pay my respects to his memory," the prime minister said.

Modi said he also looks forward to offering prayers to Goddess Kali at the ancient Jashoreshwari Kali Temple, one of the 51 Shaktipeeths in the Puranic tradition.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/range-of-pacts-to-be-inked-during-pm-modis-bangladesh-visit-foreign-secretary-shringla-372943" hreflang="en">Range of pacts to be inked during PM Modi's Bangladesh visit: Foreign Secretary Shringla</a>

The prime minister said he is looking forward to his interaction with representatives of the Matua community at Orakandi, from where Sri Sri Harichand Thakur disseminated his pious message, Modi said.

"I will be having substantive discussions with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, following our very productive virtual meeting in December last year. I also look forward to my meeting with President Abdul Hamid, and to interactions with other Bangladeshi dignitaries," Modi said.

"My visit will not only be an occasion to convey appreciation for Bangladesh's remarkable economic and developmental strides under Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's visionary leadership, but also to commit India's abiding support for these achievements," he said.

Modi said during his visit he will also express India's support and solidarity for Bangladesh's fight against COVID-19.

"As I leave for Bangladesh tomorrow, I look forward to remembering the life and ideals of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, and celebrate 50 years of Bangladesh's War of Liberation, as well as our diplomatic ties," Modi tweeted.

"Our partnership with Bangladesh is an important pillar of our Neighbourhood First policy, and we are committed to further deepen and diversify it. We will continue to support Bangladesh's remarkable development journey, under Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's dynamic leadership," he said.

Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla, while briefing reporters on the PM's visit to Bangladesh, had said on Wednesday that a range of pacts will be signed and new announcements for bolstering cooperation in several areas will be made during the two-day visit.

Modi's visit is taking place at a time Bangladesh is commemorating Mujib Borsho, the birth centenary of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and 50 years of the country's War of Liberation. The two countries are also celebrating 50 years of the establishment of diplomatic ties.

The two prime ministers held a virtual summit on December 17 during which Modi said Bangladesh is a key pillar of New Delhi's 'Neighbourhood First' policy, while Hasina described India as a "true friend" and asserted that both countries could play a significant role in the global and regional value chains by further integrating their economies as well as boosting connectivity.

During that summit, the two countries had inked seven agreements to further broadbase cooperation in a plethora of sectors, and restored a cross-border rail link snapped by the 1965 war with Pakistan.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said he will hold "substantive discussions" with his Bangladeshi counterpart Sheikh Hasina during his two-day visit to Bangladesh, as he expressed happiness that his first foreign tour after the onset of COVID-19 pandemic will be to a friendly neighbouring country with which India shares deep ties.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said he will hold "substantive discussions" with his Bangladeshi counterpart Sheikh Hasina during his two-day visit to Bangladesh, as he expressed happiness that his first foreign tour after the onset of COVID-19 pandemic will be to a friendly neighbouring country with which India shares deep ties. Modi said he will be visiting Bangladesh on March 26-27 at the invitation of Prime Minister Hasina, and looks forward to his participation at the Bangladesh National Day celebrations on Friday. Also read| India-Bangladesh relations: A robust history and optimistic future In his departure statement, he said, "I am happy that my first foreign visit after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic will be to our friendly neighbouring country, with which India shares deep cultural, linguistic and people-to-people ties." Noting that Bangladesh's National Day celebrations on Friday will commemorate the birth centenary of the Father of the Nation of Bangladesh, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, Modi said 'Bangabandhu' was one of the tallest leaders of the last century, whose life and ideals continue to inspire millions. "I look forward to visiting Bangabandhu's Samadhi in Tungipara to pay my respects to his memory," the prime minister said. Modi said he also looks forward to offering prayers to Goddess Kali at the ancient Jashoreshwari Kali Temple, one of the 51 Shaktipeeths in the Puranic tradition. Also read| Range of pacts to be inked during PM Modi's Bangladesh visit: Foreign Secretary Shringla The prime minister said he is looking forward to his interaction with representatives of the Matua community at Orakandi, from where Sri Sri Harichand Thakur disseminated his pious message, Modi said. "I will be having substantive discussions with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, following our very productive virtual meeting in December last year. I also look forward to my meeting with President Abdul Hamid, and to interactions with other Bangladeshi dignitaries," Modi said. "My visit will not only be an occasion to convey appreciation for Bangladesh's remarkable economic and developmental strides under Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's visionary leadership, but also to commit India's abiding support for these achievements," he said. Modi said during his visit he will also express India's support and solidarity for Bangladesh's fight against COVID-19. "As I leave for Bangladesh tomorrow, I look forward to remembering the life and ideals of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, and celebrate 50 years of Bangladesh's War of Liberation, as well as our diplomatic ties," Modi tweeted. "Our partnership with Bangladesh is an important pillar of our Neighbourhood First policy, and we are committed to further deepen and diversify it. We will continue to support Bangladesh's remarkable development journey, under Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's dynamic leadership," he said. Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla, while briefing reporters on the PM's visit to Bangladesh, had said on Wednesday that a range of pacts will be signed and new announcements for bolstering cooperation in several areas will be made during the two-day visit. Modi's visit is taking place at a time Bangladesh is commemorating Mujib Borsho, the birth centenary of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and 50 years of the country's War of Liberation. The two countries are also celebrating 50 years of the establishment of diplomatic ties. The two prime ministers held a virtual summit on December 17 during which Modi said Bangladesh is a key pillar of New Delhi's 'Neighbourhood First' policy, while Hasina described India as a "true friend" and asserted that both countries could play a significant role in the global and regional value chains by further integrating their economies as well as boosting connectivity. During that summit, the two countries had inked seven agreements to further broadbase cooperation in a plethora of sectors, and restored a cross-border rail link snapped by the 1965 war with Pakistan.

Happy my first foreign visit after COVID onset is to friendly neighbour Bangladesh: PM Modi

Based on intelligence inputs on drug trafficking, Indian Coast Guard air and sea assets intercepted three Sri Lankan boats off the Lakshadweep region on India’s west coast on March 18. Boarding and search of the three vessels led to the seizure of 300 kg high-grade heroin, 5 Ak-47 rifles with 1,000 live rounds, from one of them named Ravihansi. The estimated value of the seized contraband is Rs.3000 cr (over USD 412 million).&nbsp;

The Sri Lankan boats and their 19 crew were escorted to Vizhinjam in Kerala for a further joint investigation by Indian authorities.&nbsp;

K.Natarajan, Director General, ICG said that the ICG received the intelligence on March 15 and five ships were diverted, besides aircraft that were coordinating. On March 18, they made contact with the vessels, as they were moving suspiciously, south of Minicoy. “Certain movement indicated that the vessels had contraband on board. We encountered a vessel named Chetrani 6 towing a fishing boat Ravhansi, which had a technical snag. Boarding and searching was done from 18th and after two days of search the concealed weapons and drugs were seized” he said.&nbsp;

According to India’s Coast Guard, this is the second major anti-drug trafficking operation undertaken by them off the West Coast, within a fortnight. &nbsp;On March 5, in a similar operation, the CG had apprehended Sri Lankan vessel Akarsha Duwa off Minicoy island. The boat with six crew had admitted to carrying 200 kg of Heroin, 60 kg hashish, which they jettisoned at sea, on sighting ICG assets.&nbsp;

In November 2020, ICG had apprehended Sri Lankan boat Shenaya Duwa off Kanyakumari, carrying 120kg narcotics, worth around Rs.1,000 cr and five weapons.&nbsp;

Over the last year, the ICG has seized about 1.6 tons of narcotics worth nearly Rs.4,900cr, which is close to half of the drug seizures worth Rs.10,952cr, made since their inception.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Based on intelligence inputs on drug trafficking, Indian Coast Guard air and sea assets intercepted three Sri Lankan boats off the Lakshadweep region on India’s west coast on March 18.

Based on intelligence inputs on drug trafficking, Indian Coast Guard air and sea assets intercepted three Sri Lankan boats off the Lakshadweep region on India’s west coast on March 18. Boarding and search of the three vessels led to the seizure of 300 kg high-grade heroin, 5 Ak-47 rifles with 1,000 live rounds, from one of them named Ravihansi. The estimated value of the seized contraband is Rs.3000 cr (over USD 412 million). The Sri Lankan boats and their 19 crew were escorted to Vizhinjam in Kerala for a further joint investigation by Indian authorities. K.Natarajan, Director General, ICG said that the ICG received the intelligence on March 15 and five ships were diverted, besides aircraft that were coordinating. On March 18, they made contact with the vessels, as they were moving suspiciously, south of Minicoy. “Certain movement indicated that the vessels had contraband on board. We encountered a vessel named Chetrani 6 towing a fishing boat Ravhansi, which had a technical snag. Boarding and searching was done from 18th and after two days of search the concealed weapons and drugs were seized” he said. According to India’s Coast Guard, this is the second major anti-drug trafficking operation undertaken by them off the West Coast, within a fortnight. On March 5, in a similar operation, the CG had apprehended Sri Lankan vessel Akarsha Duwa off Minicoy island. The boat with six crew had admitted to carrying 200 kg of Heroin, 60 kg hashish, which they jettisoned at sea, on sighting ICG assets. In November 2020, ICG had apprehended Sri Lankan boat Shenaya Duwa off Kanyakumari, carrying 120kg narcotics, worth around Rs.1,000 cr and five weapons. Over the last year, the ICG has seized about 1.6 tons of narcotics worth nearly Rs.4,900cr, which is close to half of the drug seizures worth Rs.10,952cr, made since their inception.

Indian Coast Guard’s big haul: Over USD 412 million worth drugs, 5 Ak-47rifles, 1,000 rounds seized 

US President Joe Biden wants Congress to act on an immigration reform that it would allow Indian doctors and other professionals to expeditiously get their green cards, according to his spokesperson Jen Psaki. 
 
"He believes that there should be faster processing, that our immigration system is broken at many levels," she said at a briefing on Wednesday. 
 
"He is eager to for Congress to move forward with action there." 
 
She was replying to a question about a demonstration by Indian doctors in the US who had been in the frontlines of the fight against the Covid-19 pandemic asking for the elimination of country quotas for green cards that would enable them to get permanent residence status faster. 
 
Asked about the delays in processing work authorisation for spouses of those holding H1-B and L1 visas, Psaki said: "The reason we want to push for action on immigration (legislation) on the (Capitol) Hill is to move forward with expediting the processing and doing that on several levels, including a number of the visas.a 
 
"That`s part of the reason why we think that`s such an important piece to move forward on." 
 
Indian doctors held a demonstration outside Congress last week demanding the removal of the country quotas to expedite their green cards, 
 
Last month, Democrats introduced a comprehensive immigration reform bill in Congress that would remove the country quotas for green cards. 
 
While spouses of citizens are not restricted by the quotas, all other countries except for Canada and Mexico are each allowed only 26,000 green cards each year and this has created a huge backlog for applicants from countries like India, while some nations do not use their full quota. 
 
According to the State Department, Indians with advanced degrees whose immigration applications were approved in 2009 and skilled workers and professionals whose applications were okayed in 2010 are still waiting for their green cards. 
 
Those wait times are only for those whose applications are already approved, and it could run to centuries for those in the immigration queue. 
 
The immigration reform bill faces an uphill battle because Republicans demand that it include stringent restrictions on illegal immigration and the backing of some members of that party would be required in the Senate. 
 
Earlier, legislative action to remove country caps failed in the last Congress because the Senate and House of Representatives versions of the bill had differences that were not reconciled in time and it lapsed. 
 
The Senate in December 2020 and the House in 2019 had passed the separate versions of the bill. 
 
H-1B visas are for professionals and L-1 visas are for those transferred by their companies to the US. 
 
Their spouses had been allowed to work in the US under a regulations introduced by former President Barack Obama, but his successor Donald Trump had tried to ban work authorisation for them. 
 
In its first week in office, the Biden administration killed Trump`s effort and continued to make the spouses, most of them Indian women, eligible to get work permits. 
 
The San Jose Mercury reported last month that the Citizenship and Immigration Service had attributed the work authorisation "delays to `Covid-19 restrictions, an increase in filings, current postal service volume and other external factors`". 
 
The newspaper added that the agency said that it had redistributed workloads and staff were working extra hours to reduce the delays.

US President Joe Biden wants Congress to act on an immigration reform that it would allow Indian doctors and other professionals to expeditiously get their green cards, according to his spokesperson Jen Psaki.

US President Joe Biden wants Congress to act on an immigration reform that it would allow Indian doctors and other professionals to expeditiously get their green cards, according to his spokesperson Jen Psaki. "He believes that there should be faster processing, that our immigration system is broken at many levels," she said at a briefing on Wednesday. "He is eager to for Congress to move forward with action there." She was replying to a question about a demonstration by Indian doctors in the US who had been in the frontlines of the fight against the Covid-19 pandemic asking for the elimination of country quotas for green cards that would enable them to get permanent residence status faster. Asked about the delays in processing work authorisation for spouses of those holding H1-B and L1 visas, Psaki said: "The reason we want to push for action on immigration (legislation) on the (Capitol) Hill is to move forward with expediting the processing and doing that on several levels, including a number of the visas.a "That`s part of the reason why we think that`s such an important piece to move forward on." Indian doctors held a demonstration outside Congress last week demanding the removal of the country quotas to expedite their green cards, Last month, Democrats introduced a comprehensive immigration reform bill in Congress that would remove the country quotas for green cards. While spouses of citizens are not restricted by the quotas, all other countries except for Canada and Mexico are each allowed only 26,000 green cards each year and this has created a huge backlog for applicants from countries like India, while some nations do not use their full quota. According to the State Department, Indians with advanced degrees whose immigration applications were approved in 2009 and skilled workers and professionals whose applications were okayed in 2010 are still waiting for their green cards. Those wait times are only for those whose applications are already approved, and it could run to centuries for those in the immigration queue. The immigration reform bill faces an uphill battle because Republicans demand that it include stringent restrictions on illegal immigration and the backing of some members of that party would be required in the Senate. Earlier, legislative action to remove country caps failed in the last Congress because the Senate and House of Representatives versions of the bill had differences that were not reconciled in time and it lapsed. The Senate in December 2020 and the House in 2019 had passed the separate versions of the bill. H-1B visas are for professionals and L-1 visas are for those transferred by their companies to the US. Their spouses had been allowed to work in the US under a regulations introduced by former President Barack Obama, but his successor Donald Trump had tried to ban work authorisation for them. In its first week in office, the Biden administration killed Trump`s effort and continued to make the spouses, most of them Indian women, eligible to get work permits. The San Jose Mercury reported last month that the Citizenship and Immigration Service had attributed the work authorisation "delays to `Covid-19 restrictions, an increase in filings, current postal service volume and other external factors`". The newspaper added that the agency said that it had redistributed workloads and staff were working extra hours to reduce the delays.

Biden wants immigration reform to speed up green cards for Indians

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