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The United Kingdom sees India as an important partner when it comes to bringing change on the ground in Myanmar. The situation has deteriorated in the country, with many protestors being killed more than a month after the coup by the military.

Speaking to a select group of reporters, the new British high commissioner Alex Ellis in his first briefing said, "The situation has got worse, it is a matter of great concern...India is important to partner to change the situation on the ground. How India does that is up to India. We need to keep the pressure up on the regime."

At the United Nations security council, UK has taken a lead on discussing the issue. The United Nations human rights council has also seen a lot of developments vis a vis coup on Myanmar, with several countries condemning the development.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/un-rights-chief-tells-myanmar-military-to-stop-murdering-protesters-367967" hreflang="en">UN rights chief tells Myanmar military to 'stop murdering' protesters</a>

Speaking on India-UK ties, the high commissioner pointed out the "political will" with "stars aligned" which is "shubh" (auspicious). UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson is expected to visit India soon, and Indian PM Modi will be going to the UK for the G7 summit later in the year.&nbsp;

Asked about UK Parliament set to discuss the farmers' protests in India, Alex Ellis said that it is an "internal matter of India" but "things that happen in India have ripples in the UK, partially because of Indian Diaspora"

After a petition which got lot of support, the UK Parliament will be discussing the issue on Monday. Indian mission in UK has reached out explaining that the farm laws is a reform agenda of Indian govt, dispelling any misconception.

Questions were also asked on extradition of Vijay Mallya and Nirav Modi, Indian fugitives who had fled to UK, to which the envoy pointed out that his country, "recognizes the desire to get back people involved in corruption"

One of the most interesting aspects of his around one-hour long interaction with reporters was he highlighting that "World of the collapse of Soviet Union is over..that world is gone, we are in a new world", adding,"...white western model is over."

The United Kingdom sees India as an important partner when it comes to bringing change on the ground in Myanmar. The situation has deteriorated in the country, with many protestors being killed more than a month after the coup by the military.

The United Kingdom sees India as an important partner when it comes to bringing change on the ground in Myanmar. The situation has deteriorated in the country, with many protestors being killed more than a month after the coup by the military. Speaking to a select group of reporters, the new British high commissioner Alex Ellis in his first briefing said, "The situation has got worse, it is a matter of great concern...India is important to partner to change the situation on the ground. How India does that is up to India. We need to keep the pressure up on the regime." At the United Nations security council, UK has taken a lead on discussing the issue. The United Nations human rights council has also seen a lot of developments vis a vis coup on Myanmar, with several countries condemning the development. Also read: UN rights chief tells Myanmar military to 'stop murdering' protesters Speaking on India-UK ties, the high commissioner pointed out the "political will" with "stars aligned" which is "shubh" (auspicious). UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson is expected to visit India soon, and Indian PM Modi will be going to the UK for the G7 summit later in the year. Asked about UK Parliament set to discuss the farmers' protests in India, Alex Ellis said that it is an "internal matter of India" but "things that happen in India have ripples in the UK, partially because of Indian Diaspora" After a petition which got lot of support, the UK Parliament will be discussing the issue on Monday. Indian mission in UK has reached out explaining that the farm laws is a reform agenda of Indian govt, dispelling any misconception. Questions were also asked on extradition of Vijay Mallya and Nirav Modi, Indian fugitives who had fled to UK, to which the envoy pointed out that his country, "recognizes the desire to get back people involved in corruption" One of the most interesting aspects of his around one-hour long interaction with reporters was he highlighting that "World of the collapse of Soviet Union is over..that world is gone, we are in a new world", adding,"...white western model is over."

Myanmar situation: UK sees India as an important partner to bring change

A temporary US&nbsp;ban on exports of critical raw materials could limit the production of coronavirus vaccines by companies such as the&nbsp;Serum&nbsp;Institute of India (SII), its chief executive said in a World Bank panel discussion on Thursday.

SII, the world's biggest vaccine maker, has licensed the AstraZeneca/Oxford University product and will soon start bulk-manufacturing the Novavax shot.

"There are a lot of bags, filters and critical items that manufacturers need," Adar Poonawalla said. "The Novavax vaccine, which we are a major manufacturer of, needs these items from the U.S."

He said the recent invocation of the U.S. Defence Production Act to preserve vaccine raw materials for its own companies went against the global goal of sharing vaccines equitably.

The White House said this week it had used the act to help drugmaker Merck &amp; Co produce Johnson &amp; Johnson’s COVID-19 vaccine.

"This really needs to be looked at because if they are talking about building capacity all over the world, the sharing of these critical raw materials, which just can't be replaced in a matter of six months or a year,&nbsp;is going to become a critical limiting factor," Poonawalla said.

India's Biological E has tied up with J&amp;J to potentially contract manufacture up to 600 million doses of its vaccine per year. They have signed an initial deal but production volumes have not been agreed upon.

A temporary US ban on exports of critical raw materials could limit the production of coronavirus vaccines by companies such as the Serum Institute of India (SII), its chief executive said in a World Bank panel discussion on Thursday.

A temporary US ban on exports of critical raw materials could limit the production of coronavirus vaccines by companies such as the Serum Institute of India (SII), its chief executive said in a World Bank panel discussion on Thursday. SII, the world's biggest vaccine maker, has licensed the AstraZeneca/Oxford University product and will soon start bulk-manufacturing the Novavax shot. "There are a lot of bags, filters and critical items that manufacturers need," Adar Poonawalla said. "The Novavax vaccine, which we are a major manufacturer of, needs these items from the U.S." He said the recent invocation of the U.S. Defence Production Act to preserve vaccine raw materials for its own companies went against the global goal of sharing vaccines equitably. The White House said this week it had used the act to help drugmaker Merck & Co produce Johnson & Johnson’s COVID-19 vaccine. "This really needs to be looked at because if they are talking about building capacity all over the world, the sharing of these critical raw materials, which just can't be replaced in a matter of six months or a year, is going to become a critical limiting factor," Poonawalla said. India's Biological E has tied up with J&J to potentially contract manufacture up to 600 million doses of its vaccine per year. They have signed an initial deal but production volumes have not been agreed upon.

Indian vaccine giant SII warns of supply hit from US raw materials export ban

A decision by OPEC+ to continue with an output cut would undermine consumption-led recovery and hurt consumers in oil buying nations, Indian oil minister Dharmendra Pradhan told Reuters on Friday.

The world`s third biggest oil importer and consumer, India had been urging major producers to ease output cuts and help global economic recovery from the coronavirus pandemic as well as rein in prices.

"As one of the largest crude-consuming countries, India is concerned that such actions by producing countries have the potential to undermine consumption-led recovery and more so hurt consumers, especially in our price-sensitive market," Pradhan told Reuters.

OPEC and its allies agreed on Thursday to extend most oil output cuts into April, offering small exemptions to Russia and Kazakhstan, after deciding that the demand recovery from the coronavirus pandemic was still fragile despite a recent oil price rally.

A decision by OPEC+ to continue with an output cut would undermine consumption-led recovery and hurt consumers in oil buying nations, Indian oil minister Dharmendra Pradhan told Reuters on Friday.

A decision by OPEC+ to continue with an output cut would undermine consumption-led recovery and hurt consumers in oil buying nations, Indian oil minister Dharmendra Pradhan told Reuters on Friday. The world`s third biggest oil importer and consumer, India had been urging major producers to ease output cuts and help global economic recovery from the coronavirus pandemic as well as rein in prices. "As one of the largest crude-consuming countries, India is concerned that such actions by producing countries have the potential to undermine consumption-led recovery and more so hurt consumers, especially in our price-sensitive market," Pradhan told Reuters. OPEC and its allies agreed on Thursday to extend most oil output cuts into April, offering small exemptions to Russia and Kazakhstan, after deciding that the demand recovery from the coronavirus pandemic was still fragile despite a recent oil price rally.

India says OPEC+ decision to hit consumption-led recovery, hurt customers

WION, in partnership with Mobius Foundation, is&nbsp;taking&nbsp;the vision of the Government of India forward and launching a one-year-long social initiative called 'Mission Sustainability - Population v/s Planet'. The campaign&nbsp;commenced with a two-hour-long Thought Leadership Conclave on February 20, 2021.&nbsp;

Technology has advanced in the last 100 years to give us television, satellites, space exploration, and instant communication through apps.&nbsp;But today, there is an urgency to take action, in the short and long term -- for the survival of civilisation as we know it.&nbsp;Although the general population is aware that the future looks bleak, the causes are not immediately apparent to the common person.&nbsp;But if we had to attribute the difficulty to a single cause,&nbsp;it is the explosion of population.&nbsp;The solution (mitigation), however, does not seem feasible.

Overpopulation is among the most pressing environmental issues, silently aggravating the forces behind global warming, environmental pollution, habitat loss, and consumption of finite natural resources at speeds faster than their rate of regeneration. Ecological issues are anyway just the beginning for many more problems and issues.

This conclave on WION seeks to trigger an informed and engaging debate around the dynamics of population and its bearing on economic growth and our resource-scarce planet.&nbsp;

<blockquote>
"Population explosion will cause many problems for our future generations. But there is a vigilant section of public that stops to think, before bringing a child to the world, whether they can do justice to the child, give them all that she or he wants. They have a small family and express their patriotism to the country. Let’s learn from them. There is need for social awareness.” - Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi
</blockquote>

Dr Harsh Vardhan, Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare, has been invited to grace the event as the chief guest and share his vision for population stabilisation and sustainable development of India. Amitabh Kant, CEO, NITI Aayog will also join the event and address India's population policy and family planning programme.&nbsp;

The conclave will feature policy experts, demographic researchers, and academicians discussing issues like 'Human Population Growth and Climate Change', 'Population Stabilisation: The roadmap for India' and 'The Effect of Educational Intervention on Family Planning'. The list of panellists includes notable names like Pradip Burman, Chairman, Mobius Foundation; Dr M Rajeevan, Secretary, Ministry of Earth Sciences; Rameshwar Prasad Gupta, Secretary, Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change; Poonam Muttreja, Executive Director, PFI; Shailaja Chandra, Former Secretary, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare; Kartikeya Sarabhai, Director, CEE; and Professor KS James, Director, IIPS.

WION, in partnership with Mobius Foundation, is taking the vision of the Government of India forward and launching a one-year-long social initiative called 'Mission Sustainability - Population v/s Planet'.

WION, in partnership with Mobius Foundation, is taking the vision of the Government of India forward and launching a one-year-long social initiative called 'Mission Sustainability - Population v/s Planet'. The campaign commenced with a two-hour-long Thought Leadership Conclave on February 20, 2021. Technology has advanced in the last 100 years to give us television, satellites, space exploration, and instant communication through apps. But today, there is an urgency to take action, in the short and long term -- for the survival of civilisation as we know it. Although the general population is aware that the future looks bleak, the causes are not immediately apparent to the common person. But if we had to attribute the difficulty to a single cause, it is the explosion of population. The solution (mitigation), however, does not seem feasible. Overpopulation is among the most pressing environmental issues, silently aggravating the forces behind global warming, environmental pollution, habitat loss, and consumption of finite natural resources at speeds faster than their rate of regeneration. Ecological issues are anyway just the beginning for many more problems and issues. This conclave on WION seeks to trigger an informed and engaging debate around the dynamics of population and its bearing on economic growth and our resource-scarce planet. "Population explosion will cause many problems for our future generations. But there is a vigilant section of public that stops to think, before bringing a child to the world, whether they can do justice to the child, give them all that she or he wants. They have a small family and express their patriotism to the country. Let’s learn from them. There is need for social awareness.” - Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi Dr Harsh Vardhan, Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare, has been invited to grace the event as the chief guest and share his vision for population stabilisation and sustainable development of India. Amitabh Kant, CEO, NITI Aayog will also join the event and address India's population policy and family planning programme. The conclave will feature policy experts, demographic researchers, and academicians discussing issues like 'Human Population Growth and Climate Change', 'Population Stabilisation: The roadmap for India' and 'The Effect of Educational Intervention on Family Planning'. The list of panellists includes notable names like Pradip Burman, Chairman, Mobius Foundation; Dr M Rajeevan, Secretary, Ministry of Earth Sciences; Rameshwar Prasad Gupta, Secretary, Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change; Poonam Muttreja, Executive Director, PFI; Shailaja Chandra, Former Secretary, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare; Kartikeya Sarabhai, Director, CEE; and Professor KS James, Director, IIPS.

Mobius Foundation in partnership with WION launches ‘Mission Sustainability – Population v/s Planet’

US President Joe <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/first-ever-summit-of-quad-leaders-set-to-take-place-368123">Biden</a> while congratulating the team of NASA scientists over a virtual interaction said that Indian-Americans are taking over the United States.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-honeymoon-over-for-joe-biden-367796/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The US president made the remark while speaking to Indian-American scientist Swati Mohan who had led the guidance, navigation and control operations of NASA's Mars 2020 mission.

During the interaction, Swati Mohan told&nbsp;Biden: "I'm doing very well, Mr&nbsp;President thank you for taking the time to speak with us," to which the US president responded: "Are you kidding me? what an honour this is. This is an incredible honour&nbsp;and it's amazing. Indian-Americans are taking over the country: you, my vice president, my speechwriter Vinay [White House director of speechwriting Vinay Reddy], I tell you what&nbsp;but thank you, you guys are incredible."

Biden also referred to a large number of people from the Indian-American community getting a place in his administration.&nbsp;

Biden has appointed at least 55 Indian-Americans to key leadership positions in his administration with nearly half of them women and a sizable number of them working in the White House.

US President Joe Biden while congratulating the team of NASA scientists over a virtual interaction said that Indian-Americans are taking over the United States. Watch: The US president made the remark while speaking to Indian-American scientist Swati Mohan who had led the guidance, navigation and control operations of NASA's Mars 2020 mission.

US President Joe Biden while congratulating the team of NASA scientists over a virtual interaction said that Indian-Americans are taking over the United States. Watch: The US president made the remark while speaking to Indian-American scientist Swati Mohan who had led the guidance, navigation and control operations of NASA's Mars 2020 mission. During the interaction, Swati Mohan told Biden: "I'm doing very well, Mr President thank you for taking the time to speak with us," to which the US president responded: "Are you kidding me? what an honour this is. This is an incredible honour and it's amazing. Indian-Americans are taking over the country: you, my vice president, my speechwriter Vinay [White House director of speechwriting Vinay Reddy], I tell you what but thank you, you guys are incredible." Biden also referred to a large number of people from the Indian-American community getting a place in his administration. Biden has appointed at least 55 Indian-Americans to key leadership positions in his administration with nearly half of them women and a sizable number of them working in the White House.

Indian-Americans taking over the country, Biden jokes with NASA's Swati Mohan

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee Friday released the list of Trinamool Congress candidates for the upcoming assembly polls for 291 seats with emphasis on youths, minority, women and backward communities.

Three candidates of the Bimal Gurung faction of Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJM), an ally of the TMC, will be contesting from the remaining three seats in Darjeeling.

"This time we have stressed on more youths and women candidates. Around 23-24 sitting MLAS have been dropped and there are names of about 50 women, 42 Muslims, 79 SC and 17 ST candidates in the list," Banerjee said.

Exuding confidence in returning to power for the third consecutive time, Banerjee termed it as the "easiest" election the TMC has ever faced.

"After we come to power we will create Vidhan Parishad to accommodate senior and experienced leaders. We could not accommodate everybody especially those above the age of 80 years," she said.

"I will be contesting from Nandigram, my party colleague Sovandeb Chattopadhyay will be contesting from Bhawanipore seat," she said.

Banerjee also challenged Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah to deploy as much central force as it wants but the TMC will still emerge victorious.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee Friday released the list of Trinamool Congress candidates for the upcoming assembly polls for 291 seats with emphasis on youths, minority, women and backward communities.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee Friday released the list of Trinamool Congress candidates for the upcoming assembly polls for 291 seats with emphasis on youths, minority, women and backward communities. Three candidates of the Bimal Gurung faction of Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJM), an ally of the TMC, will be contesting from the remaining three seats in Darjeeling. "This time we have stressed on more youths and women candidates. Around 23-24 sitting MLAS have been dropped and there are names of about 50 women, 42 Muslims, 79 SC and 17 ST candidates in the list," Banerjee said. Exuding confidence in returning to power for the third consecutive time, Banerjee termed it as the "easiest" election the TMC has ever faced. "After we come to power we will create Vidhan Parishad to accommodate senior and experienced leaders. We could not accommodate everybody especially those above the age of 80 years," she said. "I will be contesting from Nandigram, my party colleague Sovandeb Chattopadhyay will be contesting from Bhawanipore seat," she said. Banerjee also challenged Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah to deploy as much central force as it wants but the TMC will still emerge victorious.

Mamata Banerjee releases TMC list for 291 assembly seats

IAF jets, helicopters light up the sky in Sri Lanka

India reported 16,838 new <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/with-a-focus-on-the-covid-crisis-innovation-india-sweden-to-hold-virtual-summit-368076">coronavirus</a> cases and 113 fatalities deaths in the last 24 hours taking the total death toll to 1,57,548 in the country.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-to-deliver-10-million-doses-of-astrazeneca-covid-19-vaccine-to-uk-367748/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The total number of coronavirus cases in the country has now risen to 1,11,73,761, India's health ministry informed along with 1,76,319 active cases.

According to the ministry of health, over 13.8 lakh <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-sends-covid-vaccines-to-47-countries-canada-gets-500000-368023">coronavirus v</a>accine doses have been administered across the country in the last 24 hours.

Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) said a total of 21,99,40,742 COVID-19 samples were tested on Thursday.&nbsp;

Karnataka reported 571 new coronavirus cases along with four deaths in the last 24 hours with the total number of cases rising to 9,53,136 with 12,350 fatalities.

India's national capital reported 261 new coronavirus cases and one death in the last 24 hours with the total death toll rising to 10,915. The number of active cases in the city stands at 1,701, according to the health department with the total number of cases rising to 6,40,182.

In Rajasthan, 156 new coronavirus cases were reported along with one death with the death toll in the state rising to &nbsp;2,788 with the number of active cases at 1,509. The total number of COVID-19 cases in the state has risen to 3,20,928.

India reported 16,838 new coronavirus cases and 113 fatalities deaths in the last 24 hours taking the total death toll to 1,57,548 in the country. Watch: The total number of coronavirus cases in the country has now risen to 1,11,73,761, India's health ministry informed along with 1,76,319 active cases.

India reported 16,838 new coronavirus cases and 113 fatalities deaths in the last 24 hours taking the total death toll to 1,57,548 in the country. Watch: The total number of coronavirus cases in the country has now risen to 1,11,73,761, India's health ministry informed along with 1,76,319 active cases. According to the ministry of health, over 13.8 lakh coronavirus vaccine doses have been administered across the country in the last 24 hours. Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) said a total of 21,99,40,742 COVID-19 samples were tested on Thursday. Karnataka reported 571 new coronavirus cases along with four deaths in the last 24 hours with the total number of cases rising to 9,53,136 with 12,350 fatalities. India's national capital reported 261 new coronavirus cases and one death in the last 24 hours with the total death toll rising to 10,915. The number of active cases in the city stands at 1,701, according to the health department with the total number of cases rising to 6,40,182. In Rajasthan, 156 new coronavirus cases were reported along with one death with the death toll in the state rising to 2,788 with the number of active cases at 1,509. The total number of COVID-19 cases in the state has risen to 3,20,928.

India reports over 16,000 COVID-19 cases, 113 deaths in 24 hours

Chinese state-sponsored hackers have at least one connection still open into the network system of an Indian port.

A report in Bloomberg, citing United States-based cyber security firm Recorded Future, reported on Wednesday that a China-linked group&nbsp;was targetting India’s power sector through an exchange of traffic, between itself and the Indian port.&nbsp;

Recorded Future had first notified India about this breach on February 10, identifying 10 Indian power sector organisations and two ports as being targetted.

They believe these are Chinese state-sponsored attacks. And give two reasons to support it.&nbsp;

Firstly, it was India's critical infrastructure. And there's only one country who would want to cripple it.

And secondly, they've spotted a pattern. These hackers use the same infrastructure that the Chinese government does.&nbsp;

To this end, India says none of its critical infrastructure was compromised.

However, according to Recorded Future, more such attacks cannot be ruled out.

They on Thursday said such attacks by Chinese hackers could continue this year.

Cyber ops is now very much a part of China's arsenal. And Beijing wants to use technology to further its strategic goals.

INDIA'S OPTIONS

Silence is definitely not one of India's options.

Experts behind this assessment say such attacks are now happening on a daily basis. And silence of the governments will only embolden countries like China.

Transparency will win here.

Microsoft has also said that it caught China hacking. And yet again it's a "state sponsored group operating out of China".

What were they doing?

These Chinese hackers apparently tried to breach Microsoft's mail and calendar server programme.

The US has now issued a emergency warning. And a software upgrade is being pushed to fight any vulnerabilities.

Government officers must download and install it by Friday.

China is on the offensive, and the target is critical -- IT infrastructure of other governments&nbsp; 
From US to India, everyone is vulnerable.

First the coronavirus, and now the cyber attacks -- countries like China have made borders redundant.

And one can only predict -- the next pandemic could be in the cyberworld.

Chinese state-sponsored hackers have at least one connection still open into the network system of an Indian port. A report in Bloomberg, citing United States-based cyber security firm Recorded Future, reported on Wednesday that a China-linked group was targetting India’s power sector through an exchange of traffic, between itself and the Indian port.

Chinese state-sponsored hackers have at least one connection still open into the network system of an Indian port. A report in Bloomberg, citing United States-based cyber security firm Recorded Future, reported on Wednesday that a China-linked group was targetting India’s power sector through an exchange of traffic, between itself and the Indian port. Recorded Future had first notified India about this breach on February 10, identifying 10 Indian power sector organisations and two ports as being targetted. They believe these are Chinese state-sponsored attacks. And give two reasons to support it. Firstly, it was India's critical infrastructure. And there's only one country who would want to cripple it. And secondly, they've spotted a pattern. These hackers use the same infrastructure that the Chinese government does. To this end, India says none of its critical infrastructure was compromised. However, according to Recorded Future, more such attacks cannot be ruled out. They on Thursday said such attacks by Chinese hackers could continue this year. Cyber ops is now very much a part of China's arsenal. And Beijing wants to use technology to further its strategic goals. INDIA'S OPTIONS Silence is definitely not one of India's options. Experts behind this assessment say such attacks are now happening on a daily basis. And silence of the governments will only embolden countries like China. Transparency will win here. Microsoft has also said that it caught China hacking. And yet again it's a "state sponsored group operating out of China". What were they doing? These Chinese hackers apparently tried to breach Microsoft's mail and calendar server programme. The US has now issued a emergency warning. And a software upgrade is being pushed to fight any vulnerabilities. Government officers must download and install it by Friday. China is on the offensive, and the target is critical -- IT infrastructure of other governments From US to India, everyone is vulnerable. First the coronavirus, and now the cyber attacks -- countries like China have made borders redundant. And one can only predict -- the next pandemic could be in the cyberworld.

Chinese hackers are still targetting one Indian port

Tourists were evacuated after a bomb scare at the iconic Taj Mahal premises in Agra located in Uttar Pradesh on Thursday.

Police said the bomb disposal squad and other teams carried out extensive search at the Taj Mahal premises and no explosive objects were found.

A man had reportedly called the police control room giving information about an alleged bomb, the police said there was "99 per cent chances of it being a hoax call".

"We received information from the control room that a man called them up saying that there are discrepancies in military recruitment and he wasn't recruited. A bomb is kept at Taj Mahal which will explode soon," police official Shiv Ram Yadav had said earlier.

A team comprising of police and CISF carried out a search of the Taj Mahal area as the entry and exit points were closed.&nbsp;

"Nothing suspicious has been found and the checks are almost done," a senior CISF officer told PTI as it launched anti-sabotage checks around 9:15 am(local time).

Tourists were evacuated after a bomb scare at the iconic Taj Mahal premises in Agra located in Uttar Pradesh on Thursday. Police said the bomb disposal squad and other teams carried out extensive search at the Taj Mahal premises and no explosive objects were found.

Tourists were evacuated after a bomb scare at the iconic Taj Mahal premises in Agra located in Uttar Pradesh on Thursday. Police said the bomb disposal squad and other teams carried out extensive search at the Taj Mahal premises and no explosive objects were found. A man had reportedly called the police control room giving information about an alleged bomb, the police said there was "99 per cent chances of it being a hoax call". "We received information from the control room that a man called them up saying that there are discrepancies in military recruitment and he wasn't recruited. A bomb is kept at Taj Mahal which will explode soon," police official Shiv Ram Yadav had said earlier. A team comprising of police and CISF carried out a search of the Taj Mahal area as the entry and exit points were closed. "Nothing suspicious has been found and the checks are almost done," a senior CISF officer told PTI as it launched anti-sabotage checks around 9:15 am(local time).

Tourists evacuated after bomb scare at Taj Mahal in Agra

With a focus on jointly dealing with the Covid pandemic, Joint Innovation Partnership, and Sustainable Technologies, India and Sweden will hold a virtual summit on Friday.&nbsp;

It will be a premier level meeting with Indian PM Narendra Modi and Swedish PM Stefan Löfven taking part in it. This is the second Nordic country with which India is holding a virtual summit. Last year Indian PM held a virtual summit with Denmark's leadership.

India's ministry of external affairs in a statement said, "During the Summit, the two leaders will hold comprehensive discussions on the entire spectrum of the bilateral relations and exchange views on regional and global issues including further strengthening of cooperation in the post COVID era."

Other key focus areas will be Healthcare, Biotech, Smart Cities, Smart Grids, Circular Economy, Artificial intelligence. India will also be inviting Swedish companies to take part in India's "make in India" program and setting up R&amp;D hubs

The virtual summit will be the first interaction between the two&nbsp;leaders since 2015. Indian PM had visited the Swedish capital Stockholm in April of 2018 for the first India Nordic summit. Swedish Prime Minister Löfven had visited India in February 2016 for the special Make in India week. Swedish King Carl XVI Gustaf and Queen Silvia had visited India in December 2019.

The Indian statement pointed out, "India and Sweden have warm and friendly relations based on shared values of democracy, freedom, pluralism and rules-based international order. Both countries have very close cooperation in the areas of trade and investment, innovation, science &amp; technology as well as research and development."

Around 250 Swedish companies are actively operating in India in various sectors such as health &amp; life sciences, auto industry, clean technology, defence, heavy machinery &amp; equipment. Around 75 Indian companies are also active in Sweden.

With a focus on jointly dealing with the Covid pandemic, Joint Innovation Partnership, and Sustainable Technologies, India and Sweden will hold a virtual summit on Friday.

With a focus on jointly dealing with the Covid pandemic, Joint Innovation Partnership, and Sustainable Technologies, India and Sweden will hold a virtual summit on Friday. It will be a premier level meeting with Indian PM Narendra Modi and Swedish PM Stefan Löfven taking part in it. This is the second Nordic country with which India is holding a virtual summit. Last year Indian PM held a virtual summit with Denmark's leadership. India's ministry of external affairs in a statement said, "During the Summit, the two leaders will hold comprehensive discussions on the entire spectrum of the bilateral relations and exchange views on regional and global issues including further strengthening of cooperation in the post COVID era." Other key focus areas will be Healthcare, Biotech, Smart Cities, Smart Grids, Circular Economy, Artificial intelligence. India will also be inviting Swedish companies to take part in India's "make in India" program and setting up R&D hubs The virtual summit will be the first interaction between the two leaders since 2015. Indian PM had visited the Swedish capital Stockholm in April of 2018 for the first India Nordic summit. Swedish Prime Minister Löfven had visited India in February 2016 for the special Make in India week. Swedish King Carl XVI Gustaf and Queen Silvia had visited India in December 2019. The Indian statement pointed out, "India and Sweden have warm and friendly relations based on shared values of democracy, freedom, pluralism and rules-based international order. Both countries have very close cooperation in the areas of trade and investment, innovation, science & technology as well as research and development." Around 250 Swedish companies are actively operating in India in various sectors such as health & life sciences, auto industry, clean technology, defence, heavy machinery & equipment. Around 75 Indian companies are also active in Sweden.

With a focus on the Covid crisis, innovation, India-Sweden to hold virtual summit

VK Sasikala’s sudden announcement to stay away from politics, barely a month after reaching Chennai amid a grand welcome has led to an unexpected twist in Tamil Nadu politics, as this comes in the run-up to the crucial Assembly poll on April 6. On the one hand, while her nephew and AMMK General Secretary TTV Dinakaran has expressed shock and said it would be a setback, the BJP has welcomed the move, via a statement issued by State President Dr. L. Murugan.&nbsp;

The return of the ousted AIADMK General Secretary and late Chief Minister Jayalalithaa’s aide to Chennai on February 8th, following her incarceration, was keenly watched, owing to the impact it would have on the AIADMK and its allies.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/tamil-superstar-kamal-haasan-gets-first-dose-of-covid-vaccine-367366">Tamil superstar Kamal Haasan gets first dose of Covid vaccin</a>e

Aside from the clout she once enjoyed within the party, she also hails from an influential community, which has its strongholds in Southern Tamil Nadu. Deputy Chief Minister O Panneerselvam also belongs to the same community.&nbsp;

The nearly 24-hour drive from Bengaluru to Chennai (which usually takes no longer than 6 hours) and the welcome accorded to her along multiple stops on the way, had created the impression of her impending re-entry into the political arena.&nbsp;

Voices from the opposition DMK’s first family were also among those who predicted trouble for the AIADMK, after Sasikala’s release from the Parappana Agrahara prison. While DMK President MK Stalin had hinted about the things falling into place after someone from Bengaluru arrives, his son Udhayanidhi blatantly said that Sasikala would create trouble for the ruling duo EPS and OPS.&nbsp;

Though AIADMK leaders were initially hesitant to comment on Sasikala’s arrival and the scenario that would follow, later Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami made it clear that there was absolutely no possibility of her re-induction into the party or a possibility of an alliance. The cadre who put up posters hailing Sasikala and welcoming her were also instantly booted out from the party, in a stern message.&nbsp;

In the first week of February, on her way to Chennai, Sasikala had announced to her supporters, about the willingness to re-unite with the AIADMK and defeat the party’s common enemy. She added that she would dedicate the rest of her life to the AIADMK’s progress. In the same vein, she added a veiled threat which said, while she was a slave before the party’s ideology, people’s love and cadres’ affection, she would not fear oppression.&nbsp;

Since reaching her residence in Chennai, there were no major announcements or public appearances by Sasikala, until February 24th when she garlanded late J Jayalalithaa’s photo at her residence, on the occasion of the four-time chief minister’s birth anniversary. Speaking at that event, she told supporters of her plan to meet the public and her followers in due course.&nbsp;

Over the last few days, amid speculation of the BJP making attempts to get AMMK to join hands with the AIADMK, TTV Dinakaran said that they were open to leading an alliance of like-minded parties. It was on the same evening that Sasikala made this surprise announcement to stay away from politics, despite Dinakaran having requested against it.&nbsp;

“Amma's (Jayalalithaa's) loyalists must ensure that evil force DMK doesn't come to power. MGR-Jayalalithaa’s golden rule must continue in Tamil Nadu, cadre should work together as children of the same mother. I've never aspired for power, post or authority. Staying away from politics, I'll always pray to the almighty and Amma for my sister Amma's golden rule to continue” read her statement.&nbsp;

However, Dinakaran has said that he would speak to party functionaries to take stock of the situation and contest the polls. “Her opinion is her’s, I won’t influence. She only wanted Amma’s children to be together, I tried to convince her for 30 mins… but she didn't agree” he told media. Adding that, the AMMK had received over 1300 nominations from prospective candidates and that the candidates list would be announced on March 10th, followed by the alliance announcement.&nbsp;

BJP’s State President Dr. L. Murugan issued a statement welcoming Sasikala’s decision. Hinting at the DMK he said, “this is a big setback to those who wanted to foment trouble and capture power in Tamil Nadu by any means”.&nbsp;

VK Sasikala’s sudden announcement to stay away from politics, barely a month after reaching Chennai amid a grand welcome has led to an unexpected twist in Tamil Nadu politics, as this comes in the run-up to the crucial Assembly poll on April 6.

VK Sasikala’s sudden announcement to stay away from politics, barely a month after reaching Chennai amid a grand welcome has led to an unexpected twist in Tamil Nadu politics, as this comes in the run-up to the crucial Assembly poll on April 6. On the one hand, while her nephew and AMMK General Secretary TTV Dinakaran has expressed shock and said it would be a setback, the BJP has welcomed the move, via a statement issued by State President Dr. L. Murugan. The return of the ousted AIADMK General Secretary and late Chief Minister Jayalalithaa’s aide to Chennai on February 8th, following her incarceration, was keenly watched, owing to the impact it would have on the AIADMK and its allies. Also read | Tamil superstar Kamal Haasan gets first dose of Covid vaccine Aside from the clout she once enjoyed within the party, she also hails from an influential community, which has its strongholds in Southern Tamil Nadu. Deputy Chief Minister O Panneerselvam also belongs to the same community. The nearly 24-hour drive from Bengaluru to Chennai (which usually takes no longer than 6 hours) and the welcome accorded to her along multiple stops on the way, had created the impression of her impending re-entry into the political arena. Voices from the opposition DMK’s first family were also among those who predicted trouble for the AIADMK, after Sasikala’s release from the Parappana Agrahara prison. While DMK President MK Stalin had hinted about the things falling into place after someone from Bengaluru arrives, his son Udhayanidhi blatantly said that Sasikala would create trouble for the ruling duo EPS and OPS. Though AIADMK leaders were initially hesitant to comment on Sasikala’s arrival and the scenario that would follow, later Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami made it clear that there was absolutely no possibility of her re-induction into the party or a possibility of an alliance. The cadre who put up posters hailing Sasikala and welcoming her were also instantly booted out from the party, in a stern message. In the first week of February, on her way to Chennai, Sasikala had announced to her supporters, about the willingness to re-unite with the AIADMK and defeat the party’s common enemy. She added that she would dedicate the rest of her life to the AIADMK’s progress. In the same vein, she added a veiled threat which said, while she was a slave before the party’s ideology, people’s love and cadres’ affection, she would not fear oppression. Since reaching her residence in Chennai, there were no major announcements or public appearances by Sasikala, until February 24th when she garlanded late J Jayalalithaa’s photo at her residence, on the occasion of the four-time chief minister’s birth anniversary. Speaking at that event, she told supporters of her plan to meet the public and her followers in due course. Over the last few days, amid speculation of the BJP making attempts to get AMMK to join hands with the AIADMK, TTV Dinakaran said that they were open to leading an alliance of like-minded parties. It was on the same evening that Sasikala made this surprise announcement to stay away from politics, despite Dinakaran having requested against it. “Amma's (Jayalalithaa's) loyalists must ensure that evil force DMK doesn't come to power. MGR-Jayalalithaa’s golden rule must continue in Tamil Nadu, cadre should work together as children of the same mother. I've never aspired for power, post or authority. Staying away from politics, I'll always pray to the almighty and Amma for my sister Amma's golden rule to continue” read her statement. However, Dinakaran has said that he would speak to party functionaries to take stock of the situation and contest the polls. “Her opinion is her’s, I won’t influence. She only wanted Amma’s children to be together, I tried to convince her for 30 mins… but she didn't agree” he told media. Adding that, the AMMK had received over 1300 nominations from prospective candidates and that the candidates list would be announced on March 10th, followed by the alliance announcement. BJP’s State President Dr. L. Murugan issued a statement welcoming Sasikala’s decision. Hinting at the DMK he said, “this is a big setback to those who wanted to foment trouble and capture power in Tamil Nadu by any means”.

Sasikala quits politics; nephew TTV expresses shock, BJP welcomes move

India is commemorating Chabahar Day today on the sidelines of the Maritime India Summit 2021. Ministers from Afghanistan, Armenia, Iran, Kazakhstan, Russia, and Uzbekistan participated in the virtual event.

WION Dispatch: India commemorates Chabahar Day today on sidelines of Maritime India Summit'21

External affairs minister S Jaishankar arrived in Dhaka on Thursday to prepare the ground for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's upcoming visit to Bangladesh, and hold talks with his counterpart on the progress of bilateral ties.

Bangladesh foreign minister A K Abdul Momen received Jaishankar at Kurmitola Air Force base. The two counterparts are set for a meeting during the day.

"This is an important meeting as it is expected to lay the groundwork for the upcoming visit of Indian Prime Minister Modi and his talks with our Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina," a Bangladesh foreign ministry official said.

Jaishankar, who is visiting the country at the invitation of foreign minister Momen, is also expected to hold talks on a host of bilateral and regional issues.

Prime Minister Modi is likely to pay a two-day visit to Bangladesh beginning March 26 to participate in the 50th anniversary celebrations of the liberation of Bangladesh in 1971.

According to officials familiar with the visit, Jaishankar would call on Prime Minister Hasina during his stay.

The two foreign ministers would take an overview of bilateral MoUs that are likely to be signed during Prime Minister Modi's visit on March 26-27, they said.

The officials said that during Modi's visit, the two premiers were likely to flag off a direct passenger train service between Dhaka and New Jalpaiguri in West Bengal.

Hasina and Modi had held a virtual summit on December 17 when they jointly flagged off the train service between Haldibari and Chilahati.

Bangladesh foreign secretary Masud Bin Momen visited India in January during which both sides extensively deliberated on Modi's visit to Dhaka.

Jaishankar's visit to Bangladesh follows on the PM-level virtual summit in December last year and will also provide an opportunity to take stock of the progress in bilateral relations, the ministry of external affairs said in New Delhi on Wednesday.

Following the summit, the Indian side had said Prime Minister Modi will visit Bangladesh in March this year to join the celebrations for 50 years of Bangladesh's Independence and India-Bangladesh diplomatic relations.

External affairs minister S Jaishankar arrived in Dhaka on Thursday to prepare the ground for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's upcoming visit to Bangladesh, and hold talks with his counterpart on the progress of bilateral ties.

External affairs minister S Jaishankar arrived in Dhaka on Thursday to prepare the ground for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's upcoming visit to Bangladesh, and hold talks with his counterpart on the progress of bilateral ties. Bangladesh foreign minister A K Abdul Momen received Jaishankar at Kurmitola Air Force base. The two counterparts are set for a meeting during the day. "This is an important meeting as it is expected to lay the groundwork for the upcoming visit of Indian Prime Minister Modi and his talks with our Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina," a Bangladesh foreign ministry official said. Jaishankar, who is visiting the country at the invitation of foreign minister Momen, is also expected to hold talks on a host of bilateral and regional issues. Prime Minister Modi is likely to pay a two-day visit to Bangladesh beginning March 26 to participate in the 50th anniversary celebrations of the liberation of Bangladesh in 1971. According to officials familiar with the visit, Jaishankar would call on Prime Minister Hasina during his stay. The two foreign ministers would take an overview of bilateral MoUs that are likely to be signed during Prime Minister Modi's visit on March 26-27, they said. The officials said that during Modi's visit, the two premiers were likely to flag off a direct passenger train service between Dhaka and New Jalpaiguri in West Bengal. Hasina and Modi had held a virtual summit on December 17 when they jointly flagged off the train service between Haldibari and Chilahati. Bangladesh foreign secretary Masud Bin Momen visited India in January during which both sides extensively deliberated on Modi's visit to Dhaka. Jaishankar's visit to Bangladesh follows on the PM-level virtual summit in December last year and will also provide an opportunity to take stock of the progress in bilateral relations, the ministry of external affairs said in New Delhi on Wednesday. Following the summit, the Indian side had said Prime Minister Modi will visit Bangladesh in March this year to join the celebrations for 50 years of Bangladesh's Independence and India-Bangladesh diplomatic relations.

India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar arrives in Bangladesh

India has supplied 464.29 lakh made-in-India Covid vaccines to 47 countries as of Thursday, an outreach that has won genuine goodwill for New Delhi in many parts of the world.

Of these vaccine doses, 71.25 lakh were supplied as gift, and 393.04 lakh commercially.&nbsp;The countries that have got India's vaccines both developed and developing countries, from Africa to the Caribbean to ASEAN and in the neighborhood.

On Wednesday, India-made vaccines reached Canada, with the country getting 500,000. The Pune-based Serum Institute of India will be sending 1.5 million more doses of&nbsp;Covishield vaccine.&nbsp;In a tweet, India's envoy to Canada Ajay Bisaria said, "India is proud to support Canada’s vaccination programme as a strategic partner."

&nbsp;

One of India's significant outreach efforts has been to CARICOM, or Caribbean countries such as Barbados, Dominica, St Lucia, St&nbsp;Kitts &amp; Nevis, St&nbsp;Vincent &amp; Grenadines, and Antigua &amp; Barbuda.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Lauding India's generosity,&nbsp;Antigua and Barbuda Prime Minister Gaston Browne said,&nbsp;"PM Narendra Modi has demonstrated perhaps the most significant of benevolence, kindness and certainly of empathy" that "we would have seen in the recent times, compared to any act of any other leader globally".

"I have to admit that this is easily one of the most notable acts of benevolence that we have seen in the last 100 years," he added.

Other Caribbean leaders also thanked India, with&nbsp;Barbados Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley tweeting, "PM Modi @narendramodi made it possible for more than 40K persons in Barbados and tens of thousands elsewhere, to receive their 1st dose of COVISHIELD via #VaccineMaitri before receiving his. A genuine demonstration of generosity. Thank you and we wish you continued good health."

Caribbean countries included a special thanks to India in a resolution adopted by the Organisation of American States (OAS) - a group of 34 countries including the US, Canada, Brazil, Mexico and Argentina.

&nbsp;

At a time of vaccine nationalism,&nbsp;CARICOM's envoy to the OAS permanent council, Ambassador Ronald Sanders said, "India has demonstrated that it is a caring nation and is an example to the world in international cooperation at a time of global crisis. Further, India has not sought to extract any conditions for its generosity to countries that have no vaccines. India will be remembered by the Caribbean with great gratitude."

Indian High Commissioner accredited to the CARICOM Secretariat Dr KJ Srinivasa explained&nbsp;that the statement seems to echo the general sentiments of the CARICOM region. He told WION, "India’s role as the first responder during crises and as the “pharmacy of the world” are now recognised throughout the region and this #VaccineMaitri will go a long way in further consolidating India’s role as a world leader."

&nbsp;

Eleven countries have got India-made vaccines under the COVAX facility. Ten of them are from&nbsp;Africa-- Ghana, Ivory Coast, Congo, Angola, Nigeria, Kenya, Lesotho, Rwanda, Senegal, Sudan and one from ASEAN--Cambodia.

All of India's neighbors, barring Pakistan, have been supplied with vaccines by New Delhi. In fact, Afghanistan, Maldives, Nepal and Bangladesh began their vaccination drive using India-made vaccines.

Last week, when Afghanistan started its vaccination drive with healthcare workers and members of the Afghan military, President Ashraf&nbsp;Ghani said,&nbsp;"India, the world's largest democracy and the largest producer of&nbsp;vaccines, not only provided the house of Parliament of Afghanistan and the dams that are the pride of this country, but also partners with us in terms of securing our lives and livelihood."

India had started its mega domestic vaccination in January and since then more than 1.66 crore vaccine doses have been administered.

India has supplied 464.29 lakh made-in-India Covid vaccines to 47 countries as of Thursday, an outreach that has won genuine goodwill for New Delhi in many parts of the world.

India has supplied 464.29 lakh made-in-India Covid vaccines to 47 countries as of Thursday, an outreach that has won genuine goodwill for New Delhi in many parts of the world. Of these vaccine doses, 71.25 lakh were supplied as gift, and 393.04 lakh commercially. The countries that have got India's vaccines both developed and developing countries, from Africa to the Caribbean to ASEAN and in the neighborhood. On Wednesday, India-made vaccines reached Canada, with the country getting 500,000. The Pune-based Serum Institute of India will be sending 1.5 million more doses of Covishield vaccine. In a tweet, India's envoy to Canada Ajay Bisaria said, "India is proud to support Canada’s vaccination programme as a strategic partner." One of India's significant outreach efforts has been to CARICOM, or Caribbean countries such as Barbados, Dominica, St Lucia, St Kitts & Nevis, St Vincent & Grenadines, and Antigua & Barbuda. Lauding India's generosity, Antigua and Barbuda Prime Minister Gaston Browne said, "PM Narendra Modi has demonstrated perhaps the most significant of benevolence, kindness and certainly of empathy" that "we would have seen in the recent times, compared to any act of any other leader globally". "I have to admit that this is easily one of the most notable acts of benevolence that we have seen in the last 100 years," he added. Other Caribbean leaders also thanked India, with Barbados Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley tweeting, "PM Modi @narendramodi made it possible for more than 40K persons in Barbados and tens of thousands elsewhere, to receive their 1st dose of COVISHIELD via #VaccineMaitri before receiving his. A genuine demonstration of generosity. Thank you and we wish you continued good health." Caribbean countries included a special thanks to India in a resolution adopted by the Organisation of American States (OAS) - a group of 34 countries including the US, Canada, Brazil, Mexico and Argentina. At a time of vaccine nationalism, CARICOM's envoy to the OAS permanent council, Ambassador Ronald Sanders said, "India has demonstrated that it is a caring nation and is an example to the world in international cooperation at a time of global crisis. Further, India has not sought to extract any conditions for its generosity to countries that have no vaccines. India will be remembered by the Caribbean with great gratitude." Indian High Commissioner accredited to the CARICOM Secretariat Dr KJ Srinivasa explained that the statement seems to echo the general sentiments of the CARICOM region. He told WION, "India’s role as the first responder during crises and as the “pharmacy of the world” are now recognised throughout the region and this #VaccineMaitri will go a long way in further consolidating India’s role as a world leader." Eleven countries have got India-made vaccines under the COVAX facility. Ten of them are from Africa-- Ghana, Ivory Coast, Congo, Angola, Nigeria, Kenya, Lesotho, Rwanda, Senegal, Sudan and one from ASEAN--Cambodia. All of India's neighbors, barring Pakistan, have been supplied with vaccines by New Delhi. In fact, Afghanistan, Maldives, Nepal and Bangladesh began their vaccination drive using India-made vaccines. Last week, when Afghanistan started its vaccination drive with healthcare workers and members of the Afghan military, President Ashraf Ghani said, "India, the world's largest democracy and the largest producer of vaccines, not only provided the house of Parliament of Afghanistan and the dams that are the pride of this country, but also partners with us in terms of securing our lives and livelihood." India had started its mega domestic vaccination in January and since then more than 1.66 crore vaccine doses have been administered.

India sends Covid vaccines to 47 countries; Canada gets 500,000

19 Myanmar police officers have crossed over the border into northeastern India to escape taking orders from a military junta that is trying to suppress protests against last month's coup, an Indian police official said on Thursday.

The men crossed into Champai and Serchhip, two districts in the northeastern state of Mizoram that share a porous border with Myanmar, the official said, declining to be named because of the sensitivity of the issue.

All the men, who are lower-ranking policemen, were unarmed, the official said. “We are expecting more (people) to come,” he said, citing intelligence reports.

India shares a 1,643-kilometre (1020-mile) land border with Myanmar, where at least 54 people have been killed since a February 1 coup.

The junta overthrew a democratically-elected government, and detained its leader, Aung San Suu Kyi, having disputed her party's landslide victory in November.

The junta justified its coup by making unfounded allegations that Suu Kyi's party rigged the election.&nbsp;

Suu Kyi, 75, is reportedly being detained in Naypyidaw, the isolated capital that the military built during its previous, decades-long dictatorship.

The bloody Wednesday violence left the United States "appalled and revulsed," State Department spokesman Ned Price said.

"We call on all countries to speak with one voice to condemn the brutal violence by the Burmese military against its own people," he said, referring to the country by its former name.

French President Emmanuel Macron called for an "immediate end of the repression in Myanmar".

(With inputs from agencies)

19 Myanmar police officers have crossed over the border into northeastern India to escape taking orders from a military junta that is trying to suppress protests against last month's coup, an Indian police official said on Thursday.

19 Myanmar police officers have crossed over the border into northeastern India to escape taking orders from a military junta that is trying to suppress protests against last month's coup, an Indian police official said on Thursday. The men crossed into Champai and Serchhip, two districts in the northeastern state of Mizoram that share a porous border with Myanmar, the official said, declining to be named because of the sensitivity of the issue. All the men, who are lower-ranking policemen, were unarmed, the official said. “We are expecting more (people) to come,” he said, citing intelligence reports. India shares a 1,643-kilometre (1020-mile) land border with Myanmar, where at least 54 people have been killed since a February 1 coup. The junta overthrew a democratically-elected government, and detained its leader, Aung San Suu Kyi, having disputed her party's landslide victory in November. The junta justified its coup by making unfounded allegations that Suu Kyi's party rigged the election. Suu Kyi, 75, is reportedly being detained in Naypyidaw, the isolated capital that the military built during its previous, decades-long dictatorship. The bloody Wednesday violence left the United States "appalled and revulsed," State Department spokesman Ned Price said. "We call on all countries to speak with one voice to condemn the brutal violence by the Burmese military against its own people," he said, referring to the country by its former name. French President Emmanuel Macron called for an "immediate end of the repression in Myanmar". (With inputs from agencies)

19 Myanmar police officers seek refuge in India rather than carry out junta's orders

India has proposed the inclusion of the key Chabahar port in the mega&nbsp;International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) that connects Mumbai with Moscow.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Speaking at "Chabahar day" hosted by India on the sidelines of the International Maritime Summit, India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar said, "India has also proposed the inclusion of Chabahar in the INSTC route. I am hopeful that during the INSTC Coordination Council meeting, member states would agree to the expansion of the INSTC route to include the Chabahar Port and also agree on expanding the membership of this project."

Chabahar is key to India's connectivity towards its west, providing routes to Afghanistan and Central Asia while&nbsp;North-South Transport Corridor&nbsp;made up of rail, shipping, and road route currently passes via cities like Bandar Abbad, Bandar Anzali, Tehran in Iran, Baku in Azerbaijan and Astrakhan in Russia.

More than 10 countries are part of the corridor, with more countries keen to join it.&nbsp;Uzbekistan&nbsp;and Afghanistan, both landlocked countries, are keen on joining the connectivity project. Uzbekistan had proposed joining the project during the India-Uzbekistan virtual summit last year.

Highlighting Chabahar's role in connectivity, Jaishankar said it "has not only emerged as a commercial transit hub for the region but also facilitated the delivery of humanitarian assistance, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic" and "part of our shared commitment towards peace, stability, and prosperity of the people of Afghanistan."&nbsp;

Last year amid the pandemic, India had used the Chabahar port to send 75,000 metric tonnes of wheat as humanitarian food assistance to Afghanistan and&nbsp;25 MT of the pesticide Malathion to Iran to deal with locust invasion.

Minister of State for Ports,&nbsp;Mansukh Mandaviya, whose ministry coordinated the maritime summit said, "Chabahar Port is a joint effort of the governments of India, Iran and Afghanistan, to support landlocked Afghanistan by giving access to the open seas, optimising logistic cost by bringing in efficiency and create a reliable and safe transport corridor."

&nbsp;

Ministers from six countries -- Afghanistan, Iran, Uzbekistan, Russia, Kazakhstan&nbsp;and Uzbekistan -- took part in the "Chabahar day".&nbsp;

Transport Minister of Afghanistan Qudratullah Zaki, Armenia's Infrastructure Minister Suren Papikyan, Iran's Minister of Roads Mohammad Eslami, Russia's Deputy Minister of Industry Oleg N Ryazantsev and Uzbekistan's Deputy Minister of Transport Choriyev Jasurbek Ergashevich were present at the day-long virtual meet.&nbsp;

India has proposed the inclusion of the key Chabahar port in the mega International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) that connects Mumbai with Moscow. Speaking at "Chabahar day" hosted by India on the sidelines of the International Maritime Summit, India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar said, "India has also proposed the inclusion of Chabahar in the INSTC route.

India has proposed the inclusion of the key Chabahar port in the mega International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) that connects Mumbai with Moscow. Speaking at "Chabahar day" hosted by India on the sidelines of the International Maritime Summit, India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar said, "India has also proposed the inclusion of Chabahar in the INSTC route. I am hopeful that during the INSTC Coordination Council meeting, member states would agree to the expansion of the INSTC route to include the Chabahar Port and also agree on expanding the membership of this project." Chabahar is key to India's connectivity towards its west, providing routes to Afghanistan and Central Asia while North-South Transport Corridor made up of rail, shipping, and road route currently passes via cities like Bandar Abbad, Bandar Anzali, Tehran in Iran, Baku in Azerbaijan and Astrakhan in Russia. More than 10 countries are part of the corridor, with more countries keen to join it. Uzbekistan and Afghanistan, both landlocked countries, are keen on joining the connectivity project. Uzbekistan had proposed joining the project during the India-Uzbekistan virtual summit last year. Highlighting Chabahar's role in connectivity, Jaishankar said it "has not only emerged as a commercial transit hub for the region but also facilitated the delivery of humanitarian assistance, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic" and "part of our shared commitment towards peace, stability, and prosperity of the people of Afghanistan." Last year amid the pandemic, India had used the Chabahar port to send 75,000 metric tonnes of wheat as humanitarian food assistance to Afghanistan and 25 MT of the pesticide Malathion to Iran to deal with locust invasion. Minister of State for Ports, Mansukh Mandaviya, whose ministry coordinated the maritime summit said, "Chabahar Port is a joint effort of the governments of India, Iran and Afghanistan, to support landlocked Afghanistan by giving access to the open seas, optimising logistic cost by bringing in efficiency and create a reliable and safe transport corridor." Ministers from six countries -- Afghanistan, Iran, Uzbekistan, Russia, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan -- took part in the "Chabahar day". Transport Minister of Afghanistan Qudratullah Zaki, Armenia's Infrastructure Minister Suren Papikyan, Iran's Minister of Roads Mohammad Eslami, Russia's Deputy Minister of Industry Oleg N Ryazantsev and Uzbekistan's Deputy Minister of Transport Choriyev Jasurbek Ergashevich were present at the day-long virtual meet.

India proposes inclusion of Chabahar port in North-South Transport Corridor........

Ministers from six countries including Afghanistan, Iran, Uzbekistan, Russia, Kazakhstan, and Armenia will take part in India's commemoration of Chabahar Day on Thursday.

The "Chabahar Day" will be celebrated on the last day of the mega India maritime summit that was inaugurated by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday.

Transport minister of Afghanistan Qudratullah Zaki, Armenia's Infrastructure minister Suren Papikyan, Iran's Minister of Roads, Mohammad Eslami, Russia's Deputy Minister of Industry Oleg N Ryazantsev and Uzbekistan's Deputy Minister of Transport Choriyev Jasurbek Ergashevich will be present at the virtual meet. India will be represented by 2 of its minister--India's external affairs minister Dr S. Jaishankar and Minister of State for ports Mansukh Mandaviya.

Earlier this week, speaking to WION, Mandaviya said, "Chabahar port is an important destination, and we are developing it. 2 cranes have been put. I will be going and inaugurating it. Chabahar connects us to CIS countries... which will increase connectivity to Europe. Chabahar port is important"

Chabahar in Iran is key to India's westwards connectivity, providing inroads to Afghanistan and Central Asia and the key to the north-south international transport corridor linking Mumbai with Moscow. January saw India sending 2 cranes for the port, and the next few months will see four&nbsp;more cranes being sent that will increase the efficiency of the port.&nbsp;

Interest has been coming from Central Asian countries to be part of the project. A working group of India, Iran, and Uzbekistan met in December as one of the key outcomes of the India Uzbekistan virtual summit between the leaders of the 2 countries. In fact, 3 of the participating countries taking part in the "Chabahar day" are from central Asia.

Last year, the Kazakh envoy to Delhi Yerlan Alimbayev pointing out his country's interest in the project said, "Kazakhstan will not only join, we are actually in a process. We initiated this process and we were expected the Chabahar connection will be done"

Ministers from six countries including Afghanistan, Iran, Uzbekistan, Russia, Kazakhstan, and Armenia will take part in India's commemoration of Chabahar Day on Thursday.

Ministers from six countries including Afghanistan, Iran, Uzbekistan, Russia, Kazakhstan, and Armenia will take part in India's commemoration of Chabahar Day on Thursday. The "Chabahar Day" will be celebrated on the last day of the mega India maritime summit that was inaugurated by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday. Transport minister of Afghanistan Qudratullah Zaki, Armenia's Infrastructure minister Suren Papikyan, Iran's Minister of Roads, Mohammad Eslami, Russia's Deputy Minister of Industry Oleg N Ryazantsev and Uzbekistan's Deputy Minister of Transport Choriyev Jasurbek Ergashevich will be present at the virtual meet. India will be represented by 2 of its minister--India's external affairs minister Dr S. Jaishankar and Minister of State for ports Mansukh Mandaviya. Earlier this week, speaking to WION, Mandaviya said, "Chabahar port is an important destination, and we are developing it. 2 cranes have been put. I will be going and inaugurating it. Chabahar connects us to CIS countries... which will increase connectivity to Europe. Chabahar port is important" Chabahar in Iran is key to India's westwards connectivity, providing inroads to Afghanistan and Central Asia and the key to the north-south international transport corridor linking Mumbai with Moscow. January saw India sending 2 cranes for the port, and the next few months will see four more cranes being sent that will increase the efficiency of the port. Interest has been coming from Central Asian countries to be part of the project. A working group of India, Iran, and Uzbekistan met in December as one of the key outcomes of the India Uzbekistan virtual summit between the leaders of the 2 countries. In fact, 3 of the participating countries taking part in the "Chabahar day" are from central Asia. Last year, the Kazakh envoy to Delhi Yerlan Alimbayev pointing out his country's interest in the project said, "Kazakhstan will not only join, we are actually in a process. We initiated this process and we were expected the Chabahar connection will be done"

Ministers from 6 countries to participate in India's commemoration of Chabahar Day

US State Department Spokesperson Ned Price said on Wednesday that major defence sales by US to India demonstrated USA's "commitment to India's security and sovereignty". &nbsp;He said that authorisation for defence sales of US 20 billion has already been made.

"As of this year, the united states has authorized over USD 20 billion in defence sales to India. It's these offers of advanced us defence platforms that demonstrate our commitment to India's security and sovereignty," state department spokesperson ned price told reporters at his daily news conference.

"It demonstrates our commitment to that global, comprehensive, strategic partnership," he said.

The US also spoke about 5G network being a priority but also expressed concern about the dangers of installing networks with equipment that can be manipulated or even controlled by China.

The State Department expressed satisfaction at the return of economic and political normalcy in Jammu and Kashmir.

"We welcome steps to return the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir to full economic and political normalcy consistent with India`s democratic values," said US State Department spokesperson Ned Price.

"We continue to follow developments in Jammu and Kashmir closely," he added. He said that the United States policy towards Jammu and Kashmir has not changed," he said.

(With ANI inputs)

US State Department Spokesperson Ned Price said on Wednesday that major defence sales by US to India demonstrated USA's "commitment to India's security and sovereignty".

US State Department Spokesperson Ned Price said on Wednesday that major defence sales by US to India demonstrated USA's "commitment to India's security and sovereignty". He said that authorisation for defence sales of US 20 billion has already been made. "As of this year, the united states has authorized over USD 20 billion in defence sales to India. It's these offers of advanced us defence platforms that demonstrate our commitment to India's security and sovereignty," state department spokesperson ned price told reporters at his daily news conference. "It demonstrates our commitment to that global, comprehensive, strategic partnership," he said. The US also spoke about 5G network being a priority but also expressed concern about the dangers of installing networks with equipment that can be manipulated or even controlled by China. The State Department expressed satisfaction at the return of economic and political normalcy in Jammu and Kashmir. "We welcome steps to return the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir to full economic and political normalcy consistent with India`s democratic values," said US State Department spokesperson Ned Price. "We continue to follow developments in Jammu and Kashmir closely," he added. He said that the United States policy towards Jammu and Kashmir has not changed," he said. (With ANI inputs)

US talks of its 'commitment to India's security and sovereignty'

IAF's Su-30-MKI fighters to take part in 'Desert Flag' air excercise with France, UAE and US

The UK will receive 10 million doses of the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine which is manufactured in India. The UK has ordered 100 million Astrazeneca doses total out of which 10 million jabs will be delivered by India.

India to deliver 10 million doses of AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine to UK

India will be funding Nepali Rs 246 million for the reconstruction of three more cultural heritage projects in Nepal after six out of the 28 heritage sites contracts have already been reconstructed.&nbsp;

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and Contract Agreements for restoration and reconstruction were signed on Wednesday for Jestha Varna Mahavihara in Lalitpur, Sulighyang Gumba, and Shermathang Gumba located in Sindhupalchowk district, according to Ministry of External Affairs Ministry (MEA) release.&nbsp;

However, the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) will be providing technical assistance for the restoration of Jestha Varna Mahavihara while other two will be undertaken by Central Level Project Implementation Unit (CLPIU), it added.&nbsp;

The signing event was witnessed by the Head of Development Partnership and Reconstruction Wing of the Indian Embassy to Nepal, Project Director of CLPIU (Building) of National Reconstruction Authority (NRA).&nbsp;

"Out of 28 cultural sector projects to be undertaken under Indian reconstruction grant, total 6 contracts have already been awarded," the Ministry said.&nbsp;

On February 11, India signed a contract with Nepal for the reconstruction of three cultural heritage projects.&nbsp;

Contracts were signed for conservation and retrofitting of Seto Machindranath Temple, Construction of Dharmashalaat Budhanikantha Temple and conservation as well as the development of Kumari Chhen and Kumari Niwas in Nepal.&nbsp;

On February 28, Indian Ambassador Vinay Mohan Kwatra, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of National Reconstruction Authority (NRA) Sushil Gyawali, and Mayor of Kathmandu Metropolitan City Bidya Sundar Shakya jointly carried out 'bhoomi pooja' for restoration of Seto Machindranath temple in Kathmandu.&nbsp;

India has been working with Nepal for restoration of cultural heritage projects, reflecting the common cultural heritage, which has been the bed rock of the strong and friendly historical linkages.&nbsp;

India remains committed to continue its development partnership with Nepal, which is long-standing, unwavering, unmatched and multidimensional in nature, as per the priorities of Government of Nepal, the MEA said.&nbsp;

India will be funding Nepali Rs 246 million for the reconstruction of three more cultural heritage projects in Nepal after six out of the 28 heritage sites contracts have already been reconstructed.

India will be funding Nepali Rs 246 million for the reconstruction of three more cultural heritage projects in Nepal after six out of the 28 heritage sites contracts have already been reconstructed. The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and Contract Agreements for restoration and reconstruction were signed on Wednesday for Jestha Varna Mahavihara in Lalitpur, Sulighyang Gumba, and Shermathang Gumba located in Sindhupalchowk district, according to Ministry of External Affairs Ministry (MEA) release. However, the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) will be providing technical assistance for the restoration of Jestha Varna Mahavihara while other two will be undertaken by Central Level Project Implementation Unit (CLPIU), it added. The signing event was witnessed by the Head of Development Partnership and Reconstruction Wing of the Indian Embassy to Nepal, Project Director of CLPIU (Building) of National Reconstruction Authority (NRA). "Out of 28 cultural sector projects to be undertaken under Indian reconstruction grant, total 6 contracts have already been awarded," the Ministry said. On February 11, India signed a contract with Nepal for the reconstruction of three cultural heritage projects. Contracts were signed for conservation and retrofitting of Seto Machindranath Temple, Construction of Dharmashalaat Budhanikantha Temple and conservation as well as the development of Kumari Chhen and Kumari Niwas in Nepal. On February 28, Indian Ambassador Vinay Mohan Kwatra, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of National Reconstruction Authority (NRA) Sushil Gyawali, and Mayor of Kathmandu Metropolitan City Bidya Sundar Shakya jointly carried out 'bhoomi pooja' for restoration of Seto Machindranath temple in Kathmandu. India has been working with Nepal for restoration of cultural heritage projects, reflecting the common cultural heritage, which has been the bed rock of the strong and friendly historical linkages. India remains committed to continue its development partnership with Nepal, which is long-standing, unwavering, unmatched and multidimensional in nature, as per the priorities of Government of Nepal, the MEA said.

India to fund NRs 246 million for 3 cultural heritages' reconstruction in Nepal 

Participants received a vaccine or placebo in a 1:1 ratio, which showed that the vaccine candidate was well tolerated, said the company

Covaxin showed 81% efficacy against UK variant

The British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) is facing a massive online backlash after a caller on a radio show made controversial remarks about the mother of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.&nbsp;

BBC Asian Network's ‘Big Debate’ show roped in callers for discussion&nbsp;about the ongoing farmers' protest in the national capital. During the course of the show, one of the callers, identified only as 'Simon', went on a rant.

The host of the show tried to bring the conversation back to the topic under discussion, but it was too late as the remarks had already reached thousands of listeners.

Listeners slammed the radio show host as well as the broadcaster for not objecting to the comment and allowing it to be aired.&nbsp; 
 
<img alt="BBC" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5884befc-e714-46b9-a779-54e2f0024516" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Modi_2.JPG" />

Soon, Twitter was abuzz with the hashtag #BoycottBBC becoming the top trend in India on Wednesday, with more than 100,000 tweets.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none">
Absolutely abhorrent language 😠
— ajay jobanputra (@jobanputra_ajay) <a href="https://twitter.com/jobanputra_ajay/status/1366842302694580224?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Several leaders of India’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) also tweeted, demanding a 'boycott' of BBC.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Not Only <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BoycottBBC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BoycottBBC</a> . 
 
Its Time To <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BanBBC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BanBBC</a>
— Arun Yadav (@beingarun28) <a href="https://twitter.com/beingarun28/status/1367042626617176065?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 3, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

(With inputs from agencies)

The British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) is facing a massive online backlash after a caller on a radio show made controversial remarks about the mother of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) is facing a massive online backlash after a caller on a radio show made controversial remarks about the mother of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. BBC Asian Network's ‘Big Debate’ show roped in callers for discussion about the ongoing farmers' protest in the national capital. During the course of the show, one of the callers, identified only as 'Simon', went on a rant. The host of the show tried to bring the conversation back to the topic under discussion, but it was too late as the remarks had already reached thousands of listeners. Listeners slammed the radio show host as well as the broadcaster for not objecting to the comment and allowing it to be aired. Soon, Twitter was abuzz with the hashtag #BoycottBBC becoming the top trend in India on Wednesday, with more than 100,000 tweets. Absolutely abhorrent language 😠 — ajay jobanputra (@jobanputra_ajay) March 2, 2021 × Several leaders of India’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) also tweeted, demanding a 'boycott' of BBC. Not Only #BoycottBBC . Its Time To #BanBBC — Arun Yadav (@beingarun28) March 3, 2021 × (With inputs from agencies)

Online backlash over BBC radio show caller’s rant against Indian PM’s mother

India's External Affairs Minister&nbsp;S Jaishankar will fly to Bangladesh on a daylong visit on Thursday to finalise details of the trip of Prime Minister Narendra Modi later this month, as the two countries mark 50 years of diplomatic relations this year.

Bangladesh, which is also set to celebrate the 50th&nbsp;anniversary of Independence, looks forward to Modi's visit, the country's junior foreign minister has said.

Modi's visit, planned for&nbsp;March 26-27, will be his first trip abroad in more than a year.

The Indian prime minister and his Bangladeshi counterpart, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, had held a &nbsp;virtual summit on December 17, during which he described the South Asian neighbour a "'pillar of India’s Neighbourhood First&nbsp;policy."

On Thursday, Jaishankar will hold talks with his Bangladeshi counterpart AK Abdul Momen on water sharing, trade, borders, connectivity and other bilateral issues. Multiple sources said the two sides would discuss the necessary steps to further strengthen bilateral ties through Modi's visit.

Jaishankar will also call on Prime Minister Hasina.

The Indian minister is expected to arrive in Dhaka by a special aircraft at 10am on Thursday and will leave the same day.

He will attend a joint media briefing after talks with Momen at the state guesthouse Padma.

"There are always some expectations centering all the visits, or least to take forward the issues through discussions,"' Bangladesh State Minister for Foreign Affairs M Shahriar Alam told reporters on Tuesday, adding that they keep deliverables for the big visit.

Asked about the agenda of the meeting, Alam&nbsp;said they will discuss connectivity, trade and regional cooperation.

Noting that the&nbsp;Covid-19 pandemic has not only ‘’created health emergencies&nbsp;but also economic emergency,''&nbsp;Alam said Jaishankar and Momen will discuss ways to remove barriers to export and import activities.

The two prime ministers had decided to conduct a joint feasibility study for a comprehensive economic partnership&nbsp;agreement. Dhaka will urge it to be started soon, said the minister.

‘‘We are not at all worried about what another country might think when we get closer to one country,’’ he said when asked if&nbsp;China would be happy with the economic partnership.

&nbsp;"Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's diplomacy has long since allayed this fear. I don't think anyone should have any doubts. Neither India nor China,’’ he added.

"We want to discuss the Teesta [water sharing], the other six rivers, the Rahimpur canal and other unresolved issues," a Bangladeshi foreign ministry official told WION on condition of anonymity. He said the issue of Teesta would naturally come up for discussion. Bangladesh hopes that the agreement will be signed soon as promised in 2011.

Bangladesh wants to establish itself as a 'connectivity hub' in the region and India can take advantage of it, another Bangladeshi official told&nbsp;WION. He said Bangladesh wants to be connected to the India-Myanmar-Thailand trilateral highway. The two sides would also discuss Dhaka's proposal in this regard. Bangladesh has also proposed five new routes for connectivity&nbsp;with Nepal and Bhutan through India, which are under consideration by New Delhi.

There is also a possibility of discussing Rohingya migrants, maritime economy and other issues, he added.

There are still many unresolved issues between Bangladesh and India. Dhaka wants to discuss this issue seriously during PM Modi's visit, the minister said.

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will fly to Bangladesh on a daylong visit on Thursday to finalise details of the trip of Prime Minister Narendra Modi later this month, as the two countries mark 50 years of diplomatic relations this year.

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will fly to Bangladesh on a daylong visit on Thursday to finalise details of the trip of Prime Minister Narendra Modi later this month, as the two countries mark 50 years of diplomatic relations this year. Bangladesh, which is also set to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Independence, looks forward to Modi's visit, the country's junior foreign minister has said. Modi's visit, planned for March 26-27, will be his first trip abroad in more than a year. The Indian prime minister and his Bangladeshi counterpart, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, had held a virtual summit on December 17, during which he described the South Asian neighbour a "'pillar of India’s Neighbourhood First policy." On Thursday, Jaishankar will hold talks with his Bangladeshi counterpart AK Abdul Momen on water sharing, trade, borders, connectivity and other bilateral issues. Multiple sources said the two sides would discuss the necessary steps to further strengthen bilateral ties through Modi's visit. Jaishankar will also call on Prime Minister Hasina. The Indian minister is expected to arrive in Dhaka by a special aircraft at 10am on Thursday and will leave the same day. He will attend a joint media briefing after talks with Momen at the state guesthouse Padma. "There are always some expectations centering all the visits, or least to take forward the issues through discussions,"' Bangladesh State Minister for Foreign Affairs M Shahriar Alam told reporters on Tuesday, adding that they keep deliverables for the big visit. Asked about the agenda of the meeting, Alam said they will discuss connectivity, trade and regional cooperation. Noting that the Covid-19 pandemic has not only ‘’created health emergencies but also economic emergency,'' Alam said Jaishankar and Momen will discuss ways to remove barriers to export and import activities. The two prime ministers had decided to conduct a joint feasibility study for a comprehensive economic partnership agreement. Dhaka will urge it to be started soon, said the minister. ‘‘We are not at all worried about what another country might think when we get closer to one country,’’ he said when asked if China would be happy with the economic partnership. "Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's diplomacy has long since allayed this fear. I don't think anyone should have any doubts. Neither India nor China,’’ he added. "We want to discuss the Teesta [water sharing], the other six rivers, the Rahimpur canal and other unresolved issues," a Bangladeshi foreign ministry official told WION on condition of anonymity. He said the issue of Teesta would naturally come up for discussion. Bangladesh hopes that the agreement will be signed soon as promised in 2011. Bangladesh wants to establish itself as a 'connectivity hub' in the region and India can take advantage of it, another Bangladeshi official told WION. He said Bangladesh wants to be connected to the India-Myanmar-Thailand trilateral highway. The two sides would also discuss Dhaka's proposal in this regard. Bangladesh has also proposed five new routes for connectivity with Nepal and Bhutan through India, which are under consideration by New Delhi. There is also a possibility of discussing Rohingya migrants, maritime economy and other issues, he added. There are still many unresolved issues between Bangladesh and India. Dhaka wants to discuss this issue seriously during PM Modi's visit, the minister said.

Indian foreign minister to visit Bangladesh to set stage for PM Narendra Modi’s trip

Indian firm Bharat Biotech's homegrown Covid vaccine has shown an interim efficacy of 81 per cent in late-stage clinical trials, the company has said.

The trials involved 25,800 subjects in partnership with the Indian Council of Medical Research, the Hyderabad-based company said in a statement on Wednesday.

"Today is an important milestone in vaccine discovery, for science and our fight against coronavirus. With today's results from our Phase 3 clinical trials, we have now reported data on our COVID-19 vaccine from Phase 1, 2, and 3 trials involving around 27,000 participants," Bharat Biotech Chairman and Managing Director Krishna Ella said.

Covaxin demonstrates high clinical efficacy trend against Covid-19 but also significant immunogenicity against the rapidly emerging variants.

Covaxin, indigenously developed by Bharat Biotech in collaboration with the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), and Oxford-AstraZeneca's Covishield are the two vaccines that are being administered in the country.

Indian firm Bharat Biotech's homegrown Covid vaccine has shown an interim efficacy of 81 per cent in late-stage clinical trials, the company has said. The trials involved 25,800 subjects in partnership with the Indian Council of Medical Research, the Hyderabad-based company said in a statement on Wednesday.

Indian firm Bharat Biotech's homegrown Covid vaccine has shown an interim efficacy of 81 per cent in late-stage clinical trials, the company has said. The trials involved 25,800 subjects in partnership with the Indian Council of Medical Research, the Hyderabad-based company said in a statement on Wednesday. "Today is an important milestone in vaccine discovery, for science and our fight against coronavirus. With today's results from our Phase 3 clinical trials, we have now reported data on our COVID-19 vaccine from Phase 1, 2, and 3 trials involving around 27,000 participants," Bharat Biotech Chairman and Managing Director Krishna Ella said. Covaxin demonstrates high clinical efficacy trend against Covid-19 but also significant immunogenicity against the rapidly emerging variants. Covaxin, indigenously developed by Bharat Biotech in collaboration with the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), and Oxford-AstraZeneca's Covishield are the two vaccines that are being administered in the country.

Bharat Biotech's Covaxin found 81% efficient in Phase 3 trials

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