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President Ram Nath Kovind was administered the first dose of COVID-19 vaccine at an army hospital on Tuesday as he urged all eligible citizens to get vaccinated.

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President Ram Nath Kovind, accompanied by his daughter, was administered the COVID-19 vaccine at the Army R&amp;R Hospital, Delhi, today. <a href="https://t.co/xf6VQ6pIwS">pic.twitter.com/xf6VQ6pIwS</a>
— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) <a href="https://twitter.com/rashtrapatibhvn/status/1367018310303248385?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 3, 2021</a></blockquote>
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According to tweets on his official handle, the president, 75, was accompanied by his daughter when the vaccine dose was administered to him at the Army Research and Referral Hospital in New Delhi.

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President thanked all doctors, nurses, health workers and administrators who are successfully implementing the largest vaccination drive in history and urged all eligible citizens to get vaccinated. <a href="https://t.co/jkZGkcRTJp">pic.twitter.com/jkZGkcRTJp</a>
— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) <a href="https://twitter.com/rashtrapatibhvn/status/1367018595683762189?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 3, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The president thanked all doctors, nurses, health workers and administrators who are successfully implementing the largest vaccination drive in history and urged all eligible citizens to get vaccinated.&nbsp;

On Monday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had taken his first dose of coronavirus vaccine at AIIMS in New Delhi. India had begun its second phase of vaccination for people aged above 60 and those between 45 and 59 years old from March 1.&nbsp;

"Took my first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine at AIIMS. Remarkable how our doctors and scientists have worked in quick time to strengthen the global fight against COVID-19," India's prime minister said in a tweet.

"I appeal to all those who are eligible to take the vaccine. Together, let us make India COVID-19 free," India's prime minister added.

Health officials said although vaccination will be free at government centres in the capital, a set charge with a cap of Rs 250 per dose could be taken by private facilities.

President Ram Nath Kovind was administered the first dose of COVID-19 vaccine at an army hospital on Tuesday as he urged all eligible citizens to get vaccinated.

President Ram Nath Kovind was administered the first dose of COVID-19 vaccine at an army hospital on Tuesday as he urged all eligible citizens to get vaccinated. President Ram Nath Kovind, accompanied by his daughter, was administered the COVID-19 vaccine at the Army R&R Hospital, Delhi, today. pic.twitter.com/xf6VQ6pIwS — President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) March 3, 2021 × According to tweets on his official handle, the president, 75, was accompanied by his daughter when the vaccine dose was administered to him at the Army Research and Referral Hospital in New Delhi. President thanked all doctors, nurses, health workers and administrators who are successfully implementing the largest vaccination drive in history and urged all eligible citizens to get vaccinated. pic.twitter.com/jkZGkcRTJp — President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) March 3, 2021 × The president thanked all doctors, nurses, health workers and administrators who are successfully implementing the largest vaccination drive in history and urged all eligible citizens to get vaccinated. On Monday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had taken his first dose of coronavirus vaccine at AIIMS in New Delhi. India had begun its second phase of vaccination for people aged above 60 and those between 45 and 59 years old from March 1. "Took my first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine at AIIMS. Remarkable how our doctors and scientists have worked in quick time to strengthen the global fight against COVID-19," India's prime minister said in a tweet. "I appeal to all those who are eligible to take the vaccine. Together, let us make India COVID-19 free," India's prime minister added. Health officials said although vaccination will be free at government centres in the capital, a set charge with a cap of Rs 250 per dose could be taken by private facilities.

President Ram Nath Kovind receives coronavirus vaccine

India, which has shipped critical supplies of<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/five-indian-states-account-for-over-84-active-covid-19-infections-367381"> COVID-19</a> vaccines to nations globally, has said it stands ready to work with the United Nations and its agencies to ensure the doses are delivered to people of Syria facing a dire situation compounded by the pandemic and food insecurity.

Speaking at the UN General Assembly's high-level panel on the human rights situation in Syria on Tuesday, India's deputy permanent representative to the UN Ambassador K Nagaraj Naidu said New Delhi&nbsp;continues to stand with the people of Syria in the grave hour of need.

India had extended $12 million in humanitarian assistance through bilateral and multilateral channels to Syria and last July the country had supplied more than 10 MT (metric tonnes) of medical supplies. Earlier this month, more than 2000 MT of food supplies were delivered to Syria.

"We also stand ready to work with the UN and its agencies to ensure COVID-19 <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/Narendra-Modi-first-dose-coronavirus-take-the-vaccine-pm-modi-takes-first-dose-of-coronavirus-vaccine-at-aiims-delhi-366946">vaccines</a> can be brought to the aid and assistance of the people of Syria," Naidu said.

India's contribution towards providing critical supplies of the COVID-19 vaccines around the world are being widely applauded, with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres hailing India for being a "global leader in pandemic response efforts" for having provided critical medicines, diagnostic kits, ventilators and personal protective equipment to more than 150 countries.

Under the initiative "vaccine maitri", which translates into vaccine friendship, India has been providing vaccines to the world. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar had told the Security Council last month that while India is a significant source of supply to the COVAX, the global vaccine access facility spearheaded by World Health Organization, the country is also directly sending vaccines to friends and partners.

India, which has shipped critical supplies of COVID-19 vaccines to nations globally, has said it stands ready to work with the United Nations and its agencies to ensure the doses are delivered to people of Syria facing a dire situation compounded by the pandemic and food insecurity.

India, which has shipped critical supplies of COVID-19 vaccines to nations globally, has said it stands ready to work with the United Nations and its agencies to ensure the doses are delivered to people of Syria facing a dire situation compounded by the pandemic and food insecurity. Speaking at the UN General Assembly's high-level panel on the human rights situation in Syria on Tuesday, India's deputy permanent representative to the UN Ambassador K Nagaraj Naidu said New Delhi continues to stand with the people of Syria in the grave hour of need. India had extended $12 million in humanitarian assistance through bilateral and multilateral channels to Syria and last July the country had supplied more than 10 MT (metric tonnes) of medical supplies. Earlier this month, more than 2000 MT of food supplies were delivered to Syria. "We also stand ready to work with the UN and its agencies to ensure COVID-19 vaccines can be brought to the aid and assistance of the people of Syria," Naidu said. India's contribution towards providing critical supplies of the COVID-19 vaccines around the world are being widely applauded, with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres hailing India for being a "global leader in pandemic response efforts" for having provided critical medicines, diagnostic kits, ventilators and personal protective equipment to more than 150 countries. Under the initiative "vaccine maitri", which translates into vaccine friendship, India has been providing vaccines to the world. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar had told the Security Council last month that while India is a significant source of supply to the COVAX, the global vaccine access facility spearheaded by World Health Organization, the country is also directly sending vaccines to friends and partners.

Ready to work with UN to ensure COVID-19 vaccine aid to Syria: India

Maldives sports minister Ahmed Mahloof has said that India and Maldives are 'writing history in the Maldives – India sports ties' even as New Delhi is helping build mega sporting infrastructure in the Indian ocean country. Speaking exclusively to Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal from Male, Ahmed Mahloof said that the recently announced line of credit will be used for, "developing the first-ever National Centers for Basketball, Volleyball, Table Tennis and Netball" of the country.&nbsp;

February saw the visit of India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar to the Maldives during which India announced a $40 million line of credit (LOC) for sports infrastructure in the Indian Ocean Island country. In November last year, the Indian Foreign Secretary had done the groundbreaking for the synthetic track at the Ekuveni stadium. India is also building state of art Cricket Stadium in Hulhumalé and is training young Maldivians in cricket.&nbsp;

<img alt="Maldives sports minister Ahmed Mahloof " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="029f5768-67bc-4e22-b8db-74dbc4e8d3a7" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/EAM%20Jaishankar%20with%20Maldives%20sports%20minister%20Ahmed%20Mahloof%20%20%282%29.jpg" />

In picture:&nbsp;Maldives sports minister Ahmed Mahloof (Image credit:Twitter)

Wion: How do you see India-Maldives sports ties?&nbsp;

Ahmed Mahloof: India has always provided support for the development of sports in the Maldives. Our national teams have had training camps in India and India has always provided technical assistance for our sports associations. We are installing 61 outdoor gyms and the development of Ekuveni Synthetic Track was also made possible due to the generous aid provided by India. I believe we are writing history in Maldives – India sports ties. External Affairs Minister Dr Jaishankar announced a USD 40 Million LoC for sports infrastructure and the bidding process for Maldives first International Cricket Stadium is also underway. The future of Maldivian Sports looks bright with India by our side.&nbsp;

Wion: India offered $40 m LoC for sports infra. What kind of sports Infra you are looking at?&nbsp;

Ahmed Mahloof: We are looking at the development of synthetic tracks in several islands along with the development of badminton, volleyball, table tennis, and basketball facilities in different islands across the country. We’ll also be developing the first-ever national centers for basketball, volleyball, table tennis and netball under this credit line.&nbsp;

Wion: &nbsp;India is training the Maldives cricket team. Do u see the Maldives cricket team on the international stage? How do you see cricket diplomacy?&nbsp;

Ahmed Mahloof: India is the world’s leading cricket nation and I believe that with the assistance that is being provided we have a high chance of making it to the international stage in the near future. We also have very talented players and the development of the international cricket stadium will have a very positive impact in their development.&nbsp;

Wion: Do you think sports is the biggest bond between any two countries?&nbsp;

Ahmed Mahloof: PM Modi and President Solih’s excellent relationship has brought our nations much closer than ever. We share a very strong bond in various different fields and with the unprecedented assistance that is being provided to the Maldives – the India union will continue to grow in the upcoming years. Sports plays a vital role in the brotherly relations we share, and I would say India will always remain as our closest friends.&nbsp;

Maldives sports minister Ahmed Mahloof has said that India and Maldives are 'writing history in the Maldives – India sports ties' even as New Delhi is helping build mega sporting infrastructure in the Indian ocean country.

Maldives sports minister Ahmed Mahloof has said that India and Maldives are 'writing history in the Maldives – India sports ties' even as New Delhi is helping build mega sporting infrastructure in the Indian ocean country. Speaking exclusively to Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal from Male, Ahmed Mahloof said that the recently announced line of credit will be used for, "developing the first-ever National Centers for Basketball, Volleyball, Table Tennis and Netball" of the country. February saw the visit of India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar to the Maldives during which India announced a $40 million line of credit (LOC) for sports infrastructure in the Indian Ocean Island country. In November last year, the Indian Foreign Secretary had done the groundbreaking for the synthetic track at the Ekuveni stadium. India is also building state of art Cricket Stadium in Hulhumalé and is training young Maldivians in cricket. In picture: Maldives sports minister Ahmed Mahloof (Image credit:Twitter) Wion: How do you see India-Maldives sports ties? Ahmed Mahloof: India has always provided support for the development of sports in the Maldives. Our national teams have had training camps in India and India has always provided technical assistance for our sports associations. We are installing 61 outdoor gyms and the development of Ekuveni Synthetic Track was also made possible due to the generous aid provided by India. I believe we are writing history in Maldives – India sports ties. External Affairs Minister Dr Jaishankar announced a USD 40 Million LoC for sports infrastructure and the bidding process for Maldives first International Cricket Stadium is also underway. The future of Maldivian Sports looks bright with India by our side. Wion: India offered $40 m LoC for sports infra. What kind of sports Infra you are looking at? Ahmed Mahloof: We are looking at the development of synthetic tracks in several islands along with the development of badminton, volleyball, table tennis, and basketball facilities in different islands across the country. We’ll also be developing the first-ever national centers for basketball, volleyball, table tennis and netball under this credit line. Wion: India is training the Maldives cricket team. Do u see the Maldives cricket team on the international stage? How do you see cricket diplomacy? Ahmed Mahloof: India is the world’s leading cricket nation and I believe that with the assistance that is being provided we have a high chance of making it to the international stage in the near future. We also have very talented players and the development of the international cricket stadium will have a very positive impact in their development. Wion: Do you think sports is the biggest bond between any two countries? Ahmed Mahloof: PM Modi and President Solih’s excellent relationship has brought our nations much closer than ever. We share a very strong bond in various different fields and with the unprecedented assistance that is being provided to the Maldives – the India union will continue to grow in the upcoming years. Sports plays a vital role in the brotherly relations we share, and I would say India will always remain as our closest friends.

We are writing history in Maldives-India sports ties: Maldives sports minister

India has opened an "energy office" in Moscow's well-known landmark Federation Tower that will presence of&nbsp;top five Indian&nbsp;energy&nbsp;PSUs even as Moscow and Delhi increase engagement in the sector.&nbsp;The 5 main Indian energy PSUs who will be present are--ONGC VIDESH Limited, Indian Oil Corp, GAIL (India), Oil India Limited, and Engineers India.

The office at the 45th floor of the&nbsp;Federation Tower&nbsp;was inaugurated during the presence of visiting&nbsp;Secretary, India's Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Tarun Kapoor, Indian envoy to Russia D. Bala Venkatesh Varma and deputy minister of energy of Russia Pavel Sorokin.

The Indian secretary said, "We already have a big collaboration with the Russian federation. Big investments have been made by Indian companies in Russia, and big investments have been made by Russian companies in India. Bilateral trade has also grown"

The sides are working towards the realisation of an ‘Energy Bridge’ between the two countries.&nbsp;India's&nbsp;Secretary in the&nbsp;Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas was in Russia for two&nbsp;days having a number of meetings.&nbsp;

Calling the opening of office "a huge step in our energy future"&nbsp;Indian envoy to Russia D. Bala Venkatesh Varma said, "energy vertical is now one of the most promising pillars of our special and privileged strategic partnership between India and Russia...India stand firmly with Russia in promoting its energy security and this is a strong message we want to give, including via the opening of this office"

Energy will be the main area of cooperation between India and Russia during Russian President Putin's India visit later this year. Russian President will be visiting India later this year for the annual India Russia summit and for the BRICS summit as India is the chair of the grouping.

Sorokin explained, "we hope it will be a new step and open the flow of investments in the country which is already in tens of billions of dollars" and will help us "drive new projects in the energy space...we hope to continue to work together"

India has opened an "energy office" in Moscow's well-known landmark Federation Tower that will presence of top five Indian energy PSUs even as Moscow and Delhi increase engagement in the sector.

India has opened an "energy office" in Moscow's well-known landmark Federation Tower that will presence of top five Indian energy PSUs even as Moscow and Delhi increase engagement in the sector. The 5 main Indian energy PSUs who will be present are--ONGC VIDESH Limited, Indian Oil Corp, GAIL (India), Oil India Limited, and Engineers India. The office at the 45th floor of the Federation Tower was inaugurated during the presence of visiting Secretary, India's Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Tarun Kapoor, Indian envoy to Russia D. Bala Venkatesh Varma and deputy minister of energy of Russia Pavel Sorokin. The Indian secretary said, "We already have a big collaboration with the Russian federation. Big investments have been made by Indian companies in Russia, and big investments have been made by Russian companies in India. Bilateral trade has also grown" The sides are working towards the realisation of an ‘Energy Bridge’ between the two countries. India's Secretary in the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas was in Russia for two days having a number of meetings. Calling the opening of office "a huge step in our energy future" Indian envoy to Russia D. Bala Venkatesh Varma said, "energy vertical is now one of the most promising pillars of our special and privileged strategic partnership between India and Russia...India stand firmly with Russia in promoting its energy security and this is a strong message we want to give, including via the opening of this office" Energy will be the main area of cooperation between India and Russia during Russian President Putin's India visit later this year. Russian President will be visiting India later this year for the annual India Russia summit and for the BRICS summit as India is the chair of the grouping. Sorokin explained, "we hope it will be a new step and open the flow of investments in the country which is already in tens of billions of dollars" and will help us "drive new projects in the energy space...we hope to continue to work together"

India opens energy office in Moscow to increase focus in the sector

Sri&nbsp;Lanka&nbsp;will offer a strategically located deep-sea port to India and Japan, an official said Tuesday, as the island seeks to balance traditional ties against China's rising regional influence.

The government last month abruptly pulled out of an agreement with Delhi and Tokyo to jointly develop the partially built East Container Terminal, located next to a $500-million Chinese-run container jetty within the capital Colombo's sprawling port.

But Colombo reversed course Tuesday, offering the West Container Terminal (WCT), which is yet to be built and located on the other side of the Chinese-run jetty known as the Colombo International Container Terminal (CICT).

"The discussions to develop the WCT will be only with India and Japan," government spokesman Keheliya Rambukwella told reporters in the capital.

Rambukwella said the cabinet decided Monday to allow India and Japan to have an 85 percent stake in the West Container Terminal -- the same terms China was granted when building the CICT.

It's unclear how Tokyo and Delhi will divide their majority stake in the port.&nbsp;

The government said the Indian High Commission in Colombo has "approved"&nbsp;Sri&nbsp;Lanka's latest offer.&nbsp;

There was no immediate response from India's foreign ministry in New Delhi, and a government spokesman said Japan has yet to respond to the new proposal.

The government blamed trade unions calling for local instead of foreign development for last month’s abrogation of the East Container Terminal, which will now be completed by the&nbsp;Sri&nbsp;Lanka&nbsp;Ports Authority.

Colombo is located in the Indian Ocean between the major hubs of Dubai and Singapore, meaning control of its ports is highly sought after.

Two Chinese submarines berthed at the CICT -- which started operations in 2013 -- in 2014, sparking concerns in India which considers neighbour&nbsp;Sri&nbsp;Lanka&nbsp;to be within its sphere of influence.

Since then,&nbsp;Sri&nbsp;Lanka&nbsp;has refused permission for further submarine calls.

In December 2017, unable to repay a huge Chinese loan,&nbsp;Sri&nbsp;Lanka&nbsp;allowed China Merchants Port Holdings to take over the southern Hambantota port, which straddles the world's busiest east-west shipping route.

The deal, which gave the Chinese company a 99-year lease, raised fears about Beijing's use of "debt traps" in exerting its influence abroad.&nbsp;

India and the United States have also expressed concerns that a Chinese foothold at Hambantota could give Beijing a military advantage in the Indian Ocean.

Sri Lanka will offer a strategically located deep-sea port to India and Japan, an official said Tuesday, as the island seeks to balance traditional ties against China's rising regional influence.

Sri Lanka will offer a strategically located deep-sea port to India and Japan, an official said Tuesday, as the island seeks to balance traditional ties against China's rising regional influence. The government last month abruptly pulled out of an agreement with Delhi and Tokyo to jointly develop the partially built East Container Terminal, located next to a $500-million Chinese-run container jetty within the capital Colombo's sprawling port. But Colombo reversed course Tuesday, offering the West Container Terminal (WCT), which is yet to be built and located on the other side of the Chinese-run jetty known as the Colombo International Container Terminal (CICT). "The discussions to develop the WCT will be only with India and Japan," government spokesman Keheliya Rambukwella told reporters in the capital. Rambukwella said the cabinet decided Monday to allow India and Japan to have an 85 percent stake in the West Container Terminal -- the same terms China was granted when building the CICT. It's unclear how Tokyo and Delhi will divide their majority stake in the port. The government said the Indian High Commission in Colombo has "approved" Sri Lanka's latest offer. There was no immediate response from India's foreign ministry in New Delhi, and a government spokesman said Japan has yet to respond to the new proposal. The government blamed trade unions calling for local instead of foreign development for last month’s abrogation of the East Container Terminal, which will now be completed by the Sri Lanka Ports Authority. Colombo is located in the Indian Ocean between the major hubs of Dubai and Singapore, meaning control of its ports is highly sought after. Two Chinese submarines berthed at the CICT -- which started operations in 2013 -- in 2014, sparking concerns in India which considers neighbour Sri Lanka to be within its sphere of influence. Since then, Sri Lanka has refused permission for further submarine calls. In December 2017, unable to repay a huge Chinese loan, Sri Lanka allowed China Merchants Port Holdings to take over the southern Hambantota port, which straddles the world's busiest east-west shipping route. The deal, which gave the Chinese company a 99-year lease, raised fears about Beijing's use of "debt traps" in exerting its influence abroad. India and the United States have also expressed concerns that a Chinese foothold at Hambantota could give Beijing a military advantage in the Indian Ocean.

Sri Lanka offers strategic deep-sea port to India, Japan

If the Global Times is to be believed, Chinese experts feel larger, fixed-wing drones, such as the GJ-1 and GJ-2 armed reconnaissance drones, can be deployed along China's borders including the border with India. The idea in the from a proposal has been floated by a Chinese legislator Hou Yun, who also happens to be a commander with China's People's Liberation Army.&nbsp;

Hou serves with the PLA Tibet military command and believes China should deploy more advanced drones on the borders. So, on March 5, Hou plans to push a proposal before China's National People's Congress, the annual gathering of the Chinese Parliament.&nbsp;

The report by the Global Times has more insights. It says the PLA deployed drones during the India - China border standoff that began last year.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-chinese-lawmaker-wants-larger-drones-for-border-management-367259">WATCH |</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-chinese-lawmaker-wants-larger-drones-for-border-management-367259/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

So far, only small or medium sized drones have been in use but they have short endurance and are vulnerable to rain and they face challenges in reconnaissance missions during foggy weather conditions. &nbsp;

After pulling back troops from Pangong Tso, the Chinese press and social media platforms have been buzzing about Chinese drones and their capabilities.&nbsp;

Over the weekend, a drone maker in Shenzhen commended two employees claiming that they supported the Chinese troops during last year's border clash. The disclosure was part of an article shared on Wechat. It was taken down but the claims have been widely shared across the Chinese internet. The Chinese drone company claims its technology was used to conduct reconnaissance and that two of its employees, Zhao Bo and Shi Zhilong were present on the ground, embedded into the Chinese military units.&nbsp;

The Chinese military has been harnessing the drone technology for a while now. Last year in September, the Chinese press released this propaganda video claiming that drones were delivering food to the soldiers near the India-China border.&nbsp;

If the Global Times is to be believed, Chinese experts feel larger, fixed-wing drones, such as the GJ-1 and GJ-2 armed reconnaissance drones, can be deployed along China's borders including the border with India.

If the Global Times is to be believed, Chinese experts feel larger, fixed-wing drones, such as the GJ-1 and GJ-2 armed reconnaissance drones, can be deployed along China's borders including the border with India. The idea in the from a proposal has been floated by a Chinese legislator Hou Yun, who also happens to be a commander with China's People's Liberation Army. Hou serves with the PLA Tibet military command and believes China should deploy more advanced drones on the borders. So, on March 5, Hou plans to push a proposal before China's National People's Congress, the annual gathering of the Chinese Parliament. The report by the Global Times has more insights. It says the PLA deployed drones during the India - China border standoff that began last year. WATCH | So far, only small or medium sized drones have been in use but they have short endurance and are vulnerable to rain and they face challenges in reconnaissance missions during foggy weather conditions. After pulling back troops from Pangong Tso, the Chinese press and social media platforms have been buzzing about Chinese drones and their capabilities. Over the weekend, a drone maker in Shenzhen commended two employees claiming that they supported the Chinese troops during last year's border clash. The disclosure was part of an article shared on Wechat. It was taken down but the claims have been widely shared across the Chinese internet. The Chinese drone company claims its technology was used to conduct reconnaissance and that two of its employees, Zhao Bo and Shi Zhilong were present on the ground, embedded into the Chinese military units. The Chinese military has been harnessing the drone technology for a while now. Last year in September, the Chinese press released this propaganda video claiming that drones were delivering food to the soldiers near the India-China border.

China may deploy drones on border with India 

From India's power grid to vaccine makers, Chinese hackers are allegedly targeting critical Indian infrastructure and assets, according to reports.&nbsp;

Two reports hint at potential cyber warfare by China but no breach has been detected by India till now. &nbsp;

India's power ministry said on Monday, it suffered no data breach or loss while no breach has been reported by the vaccine makers too. But the prospect of a cyber-attack from Chinese territory looks real.&nbsp;

The first attempt was allegedly made last year when Chinese troops hadn't de-escalated. In a study, Recorded Future, an US cybersecurity company, has found that while the Indian and Chinese soldiers remained locked in an eyeball-to-eyeball conflict, Chinese hackers launched a cyber campaign against India's power grid, according to this report.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-is-china-engaging-in-cyber-warfare-against-india-367262">WATCH |</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-is-china-engaging-in-cyber-warfare-against-india-367262/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Chinese malware entered control systems that manage the supply of electricity across India. A high-voltage transmission substation was also targeted alongside a coal-fired thermal power plant. Perhaps, the biggest claim is around a power outage that happened in Mumbai last year in October 2020. There was a widespread power outage in Mumbai. It lasted several hours, disrupted train services and threw life out of gear. Was China behind the blackout in Mumbai?&nbsp;

According to Recorded Future, this remains unsubstantiated but there is evidence to suggest that there was a coordinated effort to target Indian load dispatch centres. These centres reportedly serve as a link between power generation and transmission to consumers.&nbsp;

Recorded Future shared its findings with the Indian government. India's power ministry said in its statement on Monday, there wasn't any impact in functionality. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Along with this, news agency Reuters says Chinese hackers backed by the state targeted two Indian vaccine makers, Bharat Biotech and the Serum Institute of India, whose shots are being used for India's coronavirus vaccine programme. Cyber intelligence firm Cyfirma has come out with this finding.&nbsp;

Chinese hacking group 'Apt10' is said to be behind this. It is also known as 'Stone Panda'. It identified gaps and vulnerabilities in two areas i.e. IT infrastructure of the vaccine makers and their supply chain software.&nbsp;

The purpose behind the hack according to experts was quite clear. They wanted to steal intellectual property. This could possibly mean the recipe to make the vaccines. Reportedly, Apt10 was actively targeting the Serum Institute of India, which has the license to produce the Oxford vaccine. The same shot is being used in India and supplied around the world under commercial contracts or grants.&nbsp;

Leading tech giants and their apps were banned by India after the clashes at Galwan but if these claims are indeed true. They are a proof of how China is weaponising its tech know-how and how it is conducting cyber warfare.&nbsp;

From India's power grid to vaccine makers, Chinese hackers are allegedly targeting critical Indian infrastructure and assets, according to reports. Two reports hint at potential cyber warfare by China but no breach has been detected by India till now.

From India's power grid to vaccine makers, Chinese hackers are allegedly targeting critical Indian infrastructure and assets, according to reports. Two reports hint at potential cyber warfare by China but no breach has been detected by India till now. India's power ministry said on Monday, it suffered no data breach or loss while no breach has been reported by the vaccine makers too. But the prospect of a cyber-attack from Chinese territory looks real. The first attempt was allegedly made last year when Chinese troops hadn't de-escalated. In a study, Recorded Future, an US cybersecurity company, has found that while the Indian and Chinese soldiers remained locked in an eyeball-to-eyeball conflict, Chinese hackers launched a cyber campaign against India's power grid, according to this report. WATCH | Chinese malware entered control systems that manage the supply of electricity across India. A high-voltage transmission substation was also targeted alongside a coal-fired thermal power plant. Perhaps, the biggest claim is around a power outage that happened in Mumbai last year in October 2020. There was a widespread power outage in Mumbai. It lasted several hours, disrupted train services and threw life out of gear. Was China behind the blackout in Mumbai? According to Recorded Future, this remains unsubstantiated but there is evidence to suggest that there was a coordinated effort to target Indian load dispatch centres. These centres reportedly serve as a link between power generation and transmission to consumers. Recorded Future shared its findings with the Indian government. India's power ministry said in its statement on Monday, there wasn't any impact in functionality. Along with this, news agency Reuters says Chinese hackers backed by the state targeted two Indian vaccine makers, Bharat Biotech and the Serum Institute of India, whose shots are being used for India's coronavirus vaccine programme. Cyber intelligence firm Cyfirma has come out with this finding. Chinese hacking group 'Apt10' is said to be behind this. It is also known as 'Stone Panda'. It identified gaps and vulnerabilities in two areas i.e. IT infrastructure of the vaccine makers and their supply chain software. The purpose behind the hack according to experts was quite clear. They wanted to steal intellectual property. This could possibly mean the recipe to make the vaccines. Reportedly, Apt10 was actively targeting the Serum Institute of India, which has the license to produce the Oxford vaccine. The same shot is being used in India and supplied around the world under commercial contracts or grants. Leading tech giants and their apps were banned by India after the clashes at Galwan but if these claims are indeed true. They are a proof of how China is weaponising its tech know-how and how it is conducting cyber warfare.

Chinese hackers target critical Indian infrastructure 

Vaccine inequity continues to plague the world struggling to cope with coronavirus infections. Now, the world's richest countries have bought a billion doses of vaccine in excess. Specifically, they have bought a billion more vaccines than they need. This surplus is enough to vaccinate Africa's adult population.

An analysis undertaken by the "One" campaign claims that 27 European Union countries, along with Australia, Canada, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States have already secured over 3 billion doses of coronavirus vaccines.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-india-expands-its-vaccination-programme-367263">WATCH |</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-india-expands-its-vaccination-programme-367263/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Australia is home to 25 million-plus people, and it has purchased over 114 million doses of virus vaccines whereas it only needs around 60 million doses. Australia alone has purchased over 64 million extra vaccine doses. 
 
Around 130 countries have not received a single dose of the vaccine so far. "Vaccine equity is the biggest moral test before the global community", the UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres had recently said. India has passed this test in an exemplary manner by finding the right balance by not just inoculating its own, but also healing the world.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/doctors-in-ukraine-skipped-vaccination-appointments-forcing-officials-to-throw-away-vaccines-367231" hreflang="en">Doctors in Ukraine skipped vaccination appointments forcing officials to throw away vaccines</a>

India is running the world's largest vaccination campaign which began in January. India's priority was to innoculate its healthcare workers first, and over 14 million people have been vaccinated so far. India is now expanding its vaccination campaign. People above the age of 60 will now be getting the vaccines. Those above 45 with a medical condition are also eligible for vaccination.

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi took his first dose of vaccine on March 1. The PM was administered a shot of Covaxin - a made-in-India vaccine which was produced by Bharat Biotech and the All India Institute of Medical Sciences.

India's prime minister put out this tweet with a picture of himself getting vaccinated. "Took my first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine at AIIMS. Remarkable how our doctors and scientists have worked in quick time to strengthen the global fight against COVID-19. I appeal to all those who are eligible to take the vaccine. Together, let us make India COVID-19 free!", he Tweeted.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/fauci-urges-americans-to-get-any-of-the-three-covid-19-vaccines-available-366898" hreflang="en">Fauci urges Americans to get any of the three COVID-19 vaccines available</a>

India is not just working towards making itself coronavirus free but is also helping the world fight the virus.

Nana Akufo-Addo, the President of Ghana became the first person to receive a vaccine from Covax - a vaccine alliance that aims to vaccinate poor countries for free. The jab that Nana aAkufo-Addo is seen receiving is free of cost and is from India.

Ghana was the first country to receive vaccines from Covax after vaccines from India landed in Ghana last week. At least 145 countries participating in Covax will receive around 337 million doses of coronavirus vaccines by mid-2021. India is helping the world recover from the pandemic as the world's richest economies continue to be overwhelmed by the crisis at home.

Vaccine inequity continues to plague the world struggling to cope with coronavirus infections. Now, the world's richest countries have bought a billion doses of vaccine in excess.

Vaccine inequity continues to plague the world struggling to cope with coronavirus infections. Now, the world's richest countries have bought a billion doses of vaccine in excess. Specifically, they have bought a billion more vaccines than they need. This surplus is enough to vaccinate Africa's adult population. An analysis undertaken by the "One" campaign claims that 27 European Union countries, along with Australia, Canada, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States have already secured over 3 billion doses of coronavirus vaccines. WATCH | Australia is home to 25 million-plus people, and it has purchased over 114 million doses of virus vaccines whereas it only needs around 60 million doses. Australia alone has purchased over 64 million extra vaccine doses. Around 130 countries have not received a single dose of the vaccine so far. "Vaccine equity is the biggest moral test before the global community", the UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres had recently said. India has passed this test in an exemplary manner by finding the right balance by not just inoculating its own, but also healing the world. Also read: Doctors in Ukraine skipped vaccination appointments forcing officials to throw away vaccines India is running the world's largest vaccination campaign which began in January. India's priority was to innoculate its healthcare workers first, and over 14 million people have been vaccinated so far. India is now expanding its vaccination campaign. People above the age of 60 will now be getting the vaccines. Those above 45 with a medical condition are also eligible for vaccination. India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi took his first dose of vaccine on March 1. The PM was administered a shot of Covaxin - a made-in-India vaccine which was produced by Bharat Biotech and the All India Institute of Medical Sciences. India's prime minister put out this tweet with a picture of himself getting vaccinated. "Took my first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine at AIIMS. Remarkable how our doctors and scientists have worked in quick time to strengthen the global fight against COVID-19. I appeal to all those who are eligible to take the vaccine. Together, let us make India COVID-19 free!", he Tweeted. Also read: Fauci urges Americans to get any of the three COVID-19 vaccines available India is not just working towards making itself coronavirus free but is also helping the world fight the virus. Nana Akufo-Addo, the President of Ghana became the first person to receive a vaccine from Covax - a vaccine alliance that aims to vaccinate poor countries for free. The jab that Nana aAkufo-Addo is seen receiving is free of cost and is from India. Ghana was the first country to receive vaccines from Covax after vaccines from India landed in Ghana last week. At least 145 countries participating in Covax will receive around 337 million doses of coronavirus vaccines by mid-2021. India is helping the world recover from the pandemic as the world's richest economies continue to be overwhelmed by the crisis at home.

As threat of vaccine inequity looms, here's how India is helping the world heal

PM Narendra Modi said that the government's focus is on upgrading current infrastructure, creating next generation infrastructure, boosting reform journey.

PM Modi inaugurates 'Maritime India Summit 2021'

Leading the way: Politicians, Sportsperson and movie stars get vaccinated in India

At the United Nations Human Rights Council, India has highlighted Pakistan is providing pensions to United Nations-listed terrorists even as New Delhi expressed concerns over Islamabad's continued support to cross border terror.&nbsp;

Indian diplomat at the Indian mission in UN, Geneva Pawan Badhe said, "The members of this Council are well aware that Pakistan has provided pensions to dreaded and listed terrorists out of state funds and has the dubious distinction of hosting the largest number of terrorists proscribed by the United Nations."&nbsp;

Pakistan approached United Nations Security Council for 'basic expense' for 26/11 mastermind Hafiz Saeed, Lakshar-e-Taiba's leader Zakiur Rehman Lakhvi and Mahmood Sultan Bashiruddin, a Pakistani nuclear engineer.&nbsp;

According to the security council resolution concerning its sanctions regime, asset freeze exemptions can be granted for what is called 'basic expenses'. These 'expense' or 'pensions' include provisions, such as payment for foodstuffs, rent or mortgage, medicines and medical treatment, taxes, insurance premiums. The 1267 sanctions regime of UNSC includes three main areas, assets freeze, travel ban, and arms embargo.&nbsp;

Pawan in India's right of reply after Pakistan raked up Kashmir at the council, pointed out, "Pakistani leaders have admitted the fact that it has become a factory for producing terrorists."&nbsp;

Adding," Pakistan has ignored that terrorism is the worst form of human rights abuse and the supporters of terrorism are the worst abusers of human rights."&nbsp;

Pakistani PM Imran Khan has publicly admitted in the past that his country has hosted terror groups and once even called Al Qaeda leader Osama Bin Laden as a 'Martyr'.&nbsp;

The Indian diplomat said, "Pakistan, a country in dire economic situation, will be well advised to ... stop state-sponsored cross-border terrorism and end institutionalised violation of human rights of its minority and other communities."&nbsp;

Islamabad's track record in protecting its minorities has been criticised several times, with Hindus, Sikhs and Christians facing regular discrimination.&nbsp;

"Council should ask Pakistan", Pawan said, "Why the size of its minority communities, such as Christians, Hindus and Sikhs has drastically shrunk since independence" and "why they and other communities, such as Ahmadiyyas, Shias, Pashtuns, Sindhis and Baloch, have been subjected to draconian blasphemy laws, systemic persecution, blatant abuses and forced conversions."&nbsp;

At the United Nations Human Rights Council, India has highlighted Pakistan is providing pensions to United Nations-listed terrorists even as New Delhi expressed concerns over Islamabad's continued support to cross border terror.

At the United Nations Human Rights Council, India has highlighted Pakistan is providing pensions to United Nations-listed terrorists even as New Delhi expressed concerns over Islamabad's continued support to cross border terror. Indian diplomat at the Indian mission in UN, Geneva Pawan Badhe said, "The members of this Council are well aware that Pakistan has provided pensions to dreaded and listed terrorists out of state funds and has the dubious distinction of hosting the largest number of terrorists proscribed by the United Nations." Pakistan approached United Nations Security Council for 'basic expense' for 26/11 mastermind Hafiz Saeed, Lakshar-e-Taiba's leader Zakiur Rehman Lakhvi and Mahmood Sultan Bashiruddin, a Pakistani nuclear engineer. According to the security council resolution concerning its sanctions regime, asset freeze exemptions can be granted for what is called 'basic expenses'. These 'expense' or 'pensions' include provisions, such as payment for foodstuffs, rent or mortgage, medicines and medical treatment, taxes, insurance premiums. The 1267 sanctions regime of UNSC includes three main areas, assets freeze, travel ban, and arms embargo. Pawan in India's right of reply after Pakistan raked up Kashmir at the council, pointed out, "Pakistani leaders have admitted the fact that it has become a factory for producing terrorists." Adding," Pakistan has ignored that terrorism is the worst form of human rights abuse and the supporters of terrorism are the worst abusers of human rights." Pakistani PM Imran Khan has publicly admitted in the past that his country has hosted terror groups and once even called Al Qaeda leader Osama Bin Laden as a 'Martyr'. The Indian diplomat said, "Pakistan, a country in dire economic situation, will be well advised to ... stop state-sponsored cross-border terrorism and end institutionalised violation of human rights of its minority and other communities." Islamabad's track record in protecting its minorities has been criticised several times, with Hindus, Sikhs and Christians facing regular discrimination. "Council should ask Pakistan", Pawan said, "Why the size of its minority communities, such as Christians, Hindus and Sikhs has drastically shrunk since independence" and "why they and other communities, such as Ahmadiyyas, Shias, Pashtuns, Sindhis and Baloch, have been subjected to draconian blasphemy laws, systemic persecution, blatant abuses and forced conversions."

At UNHRC, India highlights Pakistan providing 'pensions' to terrorists

India's total <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-vaccination-phase-2-india-check-who-is-eligible-367004">COVID-19</a> active cases stand at 1.68 lakh with five states accounting for 84.16 per cent of the active infections, while six states and UTs have a weekly positivity rate higher than the national average of two per cent, the Union Health Ministry said on Tuesday.

Maharashtra and Kerala alone account for 67.84 per cent of total active cases, it said.

Six states and UTs including Maharashtra, Kerala, Goa, Chandigarh, Punjab and Gujarat have a weekly positivity rate higher than the national average of 2 per cent.&nbsp;

Maharashtra leads all the states with a weekly positivity rate of 10.02 per cent, the ministry said.

India's total COVID-19 active caseload stands at 1,68,358 as the country added 12,286 new cases in a span of 24 hours. The country's present active caseload now consists of 1.51 per cent of India's total infections.

The ministry said 80.33 per cent of the new cases are from five states.

Maharashtra continues to report the highest daily new cases at 6,397. It is followed by Kerala with 1,938 while Punjab reported 633 new cases.

The Centre is continuously engaging with the states and UTs manifesting higher caseload of active cases and those reporting a rise in the daily new COVID-19 cases.

"They have been advised to maintain a continued rigorous vigil for containing the spread of COVID-19. Need for effective testing, comprehensive tracking, prompt isolation of positive cases and quick quarantine of close contacts are strongly emphasized," the ministry said.

"Eight states are displaying an upward trajectory in daily new cases," it highlighted.

Five states - Maharashtra, Kerala, Karnataka, Punjab and Tamil Nadu cumulatively account for 84.16 per cent of the total active cases in the country. Maharashtra alone accounts for 46.82 per cent of India's total active cases, followed by Kerala with 28.61 per cent.

A total of 1,48,54,136 vaccine doses have been administered as per the provisional report till Tuesday 7 am.

India's total COVID-19 active cases stand at 1.68 lakh with five states accounting for 84.16 per cent of the active infections, while six states and UTs have a weekly positivity rate higher than the national average of two per cent, the Union Health Ministry said on Tuesday.

India's total COVID-19 active cases stand at 1.68 lakh with five states accounting for 84.16 per cent of the active infections, while six states and UTs have a weekly positivity rate higher than the national average of two per cent, the Union Health Ministry said on Tuesday. Maharashtra and Kerala alone account for 67.84 per cent of total active cases, it said. Six states and UTs including Maharashtra, Kerala, Goa, Chandigarh, Punjab and Gujarat have a weekly positivity rate higher than the national average of 2 per cent. Maharashtra leads all the states with a weekly positivity rate of 10.02 per cent, the ministry said. India's total COVID-19 active caseload stands at 1,68,358 as the country added 12,286 new cases in a span of 24 hours. The country's present active caseload now consists of 1.51 per cent of India's total infections. The ministry said 80.33 per cent of the new cases are from five states. Maharashtra continues to report the highest daily new cases at 6,397. It is followed by Kerala with 1,938 while Punjab reported 633 new cases. The Centre is continuously engaging with the states and UTs manifesting higher caseload of active cases and those reporting a rise in the daily new COVID-19 cases. "They have been advised to maintain a continued rigorous vigil for containing the spread of COVID-19. Need for effective testing, comprehensive tracking, prompt isolation of positive cases and quick quarantine of close contacts are strongly emphasized," the ministry said. "Eight states are displaying an upward trajectory in daily new cases," it highlighted. Five states - Maharashtra, Kerala, Karnataka, Punjab and Tamil Nadu cumulatively account for 84.16 per cent of the total active cases in the country. Maharashtra alone accounts for 46.82 per cent of India's total active cases, followed by Kerala with 28.61 per cent. A total of 1,48,54,136 vaccine doses have been administered as per the provisional report till Tuesday 7 am.

Five Indian states account for over 84% active COVID-19 infections

As India begins its second phase of the mega vaccination drive Prime Minister Narendra Modi has taken his first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine at AIIMS, Delhi.

India begins second phase of COVID-19 vaccination drive

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi took his first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine at AIIMS, Delhi. India is all set to begin the second phase of its mega vaccination drive.

News Alert: Indian PM Modi gets first dose of COVID-19 vaccine at AIIMS, Delhi

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has welcomed India-Pakistan joint statement on ceasefire observance calling it "an important step towards achieving security, stability, and prosperity in the region."

The UAE is the first country in West Asia to welcome last week's development. It joins the likes of the US, UN and EU.&nbsp;

Highlighting the "close historical ties" UAE has with both India and Pakistan, the foreign ministry of the country in a statement said, "it commends the efforts of the two countries to reach this achievement", emphasizing the "importance of adhering to a permanent ceasefire" between the "two friendly countries in Kashmir" to the "benefit of both sides and committing to diplomatic means - through dialogue - to build bridges of confidence and establish a lasting peace that achieves the aspirations of both peoples."

Last week in a surprise development India and Pakistan agreed to lower the temperature at the line of control with "strict observance" of the 2003 ceasefire pact with both the militaries issuing a rare joint statement.&nbsp;

While no formal dialogue has taken place between India and Pakistan for years, ties have been completely frayed after the 2019 Pulwama terror attack whose responsibility was taken by a Pakistan-based terror group. After India removed special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir in August 2019, Pakistan had cut all people-to-people ties and recalled its envoy.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has welcomed India-Pakistan joint statement on ceasefire observance calling it "an important step towards achieving security, stability, and prosperity in the region.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has welcomed India-Pakistan joint statement on ceasefire observance calling it "an important step towards achieving security, stability, and prosperity in the region." The UAE is the first country in West Asia to welcome last week's development. It joins the likes of the US, UN and EU. Highlighting the "close historical ties" UAE has with both India and Pakistan, the foreign ministry of the country in a statement said, "it commends the efforts of the two countries to reach this achievement", emphasizing the "importance of adhering to a permanent ceasefire" between the "two friendly countries in Kashmir" to the "benefit of both sides and committing to diplomatic means - through dialogue - to build bridges of confidence and establish a lasting peace that achieves the aspirations of both peoples." Last week in a surprise development India and Pakistan agreed to lower the temperature at the line of control with "strict observance" of the 2003 ceasefire pact with both the militaries issuing a rare joint statement. While no formal dialogue has taken place between India and Pakistan for years, ties have been completely frayed after the 2019 Pulwama terror attack whose responsibility was taken by a Pakistan-based terror group. After India removed special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir in August 2019, Pakistan had cut all people-to-people ties and recalled its envoy.

UAE welcomes India-Pakistan joint statement on ceasefire observance

Reaching out to Madagascar yet again, India will be sending 1000 tonnes of rice and malaria medicine to the Indian Ocean island country. Southern Madagascar&nbsp;has been impacted by devastating famine and according to a November 2020 report by the World Food Programme, families are forced to eat insects.

India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar had assured supplies to the foreign minister of Madagascar&nbsp;Tehindrazanarivelo Liva during the telephonic talks on Monday.&nbsp;

He tweeted, "Good conversation with FM of Madagascar @Tehindrazanari1 . Informed him that Indian humanitarian assistance would be delivered in the coming days. Will include food and medical supplies."

This is the&nbsp;first-ever telephonic conversation between the foreign ministers of India and Madagascar and shows signs of increased engagement between the two&nbsp;countries.&nbsp;The last bilateral visit of the President of Madagascar to India was in 1980, with the Indian President visiting the country in 2018.&nbsp;In fact,&nbsp;Madagascar's defence minister had visited India in February for the Aero India show and participated in the Indian ocean defence ministers meet in Bangalore.

In March of 2020, Indian Navy ship INS Shardul had sent 600 tonnes of rice to the country. Under mission Sagar 1, India had sent aid to the country to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

Last week, Madagascar’s President inaugurated the advanced digital cobalt therapy machine Bhabhatron-II donated by the Government&nbsp;of India to Madagascar in presence of the country's Health Minister and Indian Ambassador Abhay Kumar. It can treat 50 cancer patients every day.

Reaching out to Madagascar yet again, India will be sending 1000 tonnes of rice and malaria medicine to the Indian Ocean island country. Southern Madagascar has been impacted by devastating famine and according to a November 2020 report by the World Food Programme, families are forced to eat insects.

Reaching out to Madagascar yet again, India will be sending 1000 tonnes of rice and malaria medicine to the Indian Ocean island country. Southern Madagascar has been impacted by devastating famine and according to a November 2020 report by the World Food Programme, families are forced to eat insects. India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar had assured supplies to the foreign minister of Madagascar Tehindrazanarivelo Liva during the telephonic talks on Monday. He tweeted, "Good conversation with FM of Madagascar @Tehindrazanari1 . Informed him that Indian humanitarian assistance would be delivered in the coming days. Will include food and medical supplies." This is the first-ever telephonic conversation between the foreign ministers of India and Madagascar and shows signs of increased engagement between the two countries. The last bilateral visit of the President of Madagascar to India was in 1980, with the Indian President visiting the country in 2018. In fact, Madagascar's defence minister had visited India in February for the Aero India show and participated in the Indian ocean defence ministers meet in Bangalore. In March of 2020, Indian Navy ship INS Shardul had sent 600 tonnes of rice to the country. Under mission Sagar 1, India had sent aid to the country to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic. Last week, Madagascar’s President inaugurated the advanced digital cobalt therapy machine Bhabhatron-II donated by the Government of India to Madagascar in presence of the country's Health Minister and Indian Ambassador Abhay Kumar. It can treat 50 cancer patients every day.

India-Madagascar FMs talk; New Delhi to send 1000 tonnes of rice and malaria medicines

Second phase of coronavirus vaccination is starting in India today (March 1). Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi received the first dose of COVID vaccine. Vaccinating Indian citizens against coronavirus is a giant task given the population of India

In first phase of vaccination, only healthcare and frontline workers were being vaccinated.

<h2>Who will be eligible to get jab in second phase?</h2>

Here's who will be eligible for a COVID shot in the second phase of the vaccination drive

People above 60 years of age of those who will attain the age of 60 on January 1, 2022 
People with co-morbidities who are between 45-59 year-old age group or will attain that age by January 1, 2022

Indian government has listed 20 co-morbidities that would be covered for this vaccination.

<h2>Some of them are,</h2>

<ul>
	<li>Diabetes or hypertension for over 10 years</li>
	<li>HIV infection or any other immunological disease</li>
	<li>Heart failure that resulted in hospitalisation over the last one year</li>
	<li>Those diagnosed with cancer after July 1, 2020, or those currently being treated for cancer</li>
</ul>

There have been more than 11 million reported coronavirus infections in India and over 157,000 deaths

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged everyone who is eligible to take COVID vaccine

"Took my first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine at AIIMS. Remarkable how our doctors and scientists have worked in quick time to strengthen the global fight against COVID-19. I appeal to all those who are eligible to take the vaccine. Together, let us make India COVID-19 free!" he tweeted.

Second phase of coronavirus vaccination is starting in India today (March 1). Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi received the first dose of COVID vaccine. Vaccinating Indian citizens against coronavirus is a giant task given the population of India In first phase of vaccination, only healthcare and frontline workers were being vaccinated.

Second phase of coronavirus vaccination is starting in India today (March 1). Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi received the first dose of COVID vaccine. Vaccinating Indian citizens against coronavirus is a giant task given the population of India In first phase of vaccination, only healthcare and frontline workers were being vaccinated. Who will be eligible to get jab in second phase? Here's who will be eligible for a COVID shot in the second phase of the vaccination drive People above 60 years of age of those who will attain the age of 60 on January 1, 2022 People with co-morbidities who are between 45-59 year-old age group or will attain that age by January 1, 2022 Indian government has listed 20 co-morbidities that would be covered for this vaccination. Some of them are, Diabetes or hypertension for over 10 years HIV infection or any other immunological disease Heart failure that resulted in hospitalisation over the last one year Those diagnosed with cancer after July 1, 2020, or those currently being treated for cancer There have been more than 11 million reported coronavirus infections in India and over 157,000 deaths Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged everyone who is eligible to take COVID vaccine "Took my first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine at AIIMS. Remarkable how our doctors and scientists have worked in quick time to strengthen the global fight against COVID-19. I appeal to all those who are eligible to take the vaccine. Together, let us make India COVID-19 free!" he tweeted.

COVID vaccination phase 2 India: Check who is eligible

Fresh Covid-19 cases are showing a worrying upward trend over the last two weeks. Single-day rise of 15,510 new Covid cases reported in the last 24 hours pushed India`s tally to 1,11,12,241 on Monday, while 106 fatalities mounted the death toll to 1,57,157, the Union Health Ministry said. 
 
The positivity rate has been rising gradually, pushing it to 1.52 per cent. As per the Ministry`s data, there are 1,68,627 active cases at present after 11,288 patients were discharged in a day. 
 
The experts have expressed a number of possibilities which could be owed to the stride ranging from lax attitude of people towards following Covid protocols to the likeability of "mutations and new strains" causing the surge, as has been studied by the laboratories involved in Covid detection across the country. 
 
In mid-February, officials had said that the average daily new infections oscillated between 9,000 to 12,000 while the deaths were between 78 to 120. 
 
On February 9, India had reported 9,110 new cases, the lowest this year so far. Last year, the lowest 9,633 cases were recorded on June 3. 
 
Till now, 1,07,86,457 persons have been discharged so far. The recovery rate has reduced to 97.07 per cent. 
 
Last week, around 90 per cent of the weekly average cases came from six states -- Maharashtra, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Punjab, Karnataka and Gujarat. Central teams have been rushed to these states as well. 
 
The Ministry also informed that 6,27,668 samples were tested on Sunday. The cumulative tests done by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) so far stands at 21,68,58,774. 
 
So far, 1,43,01,266 doses of corona vaccine have been administered in the country since the drive began on January 16 after approval for `Covishield` and `Covaxin`. 
 
The third phase of vaccination against the Covid pandemic began on Monday covering 27 crore people above 60 and those above 45 years of age with comorbidities at 10,000 government and over 20,000 private vaccination centres. While people will be vaccinated free of cost at government hospitals, those taking the shots at private hospitals will have to pay.

Fresh Covid-19 cases are showing a worrying upward trend over the last two weeks. Single-day rise of 15,510 new Covid cases reported in the last 24 hours pushed India`s tally to 1,11,12,241 on Monday, while 106 fatalities mounted the death toll to 1,57,157, the Union Health Ministry said.

Fresh Covid-19 cases are showing a worrying upward trend over the last two weeks. Single-day rise of 15,510 new Covid cases reported in the last 24 hours pushed India`s tally to 1,11,12,241 on Monday, while 106 fatalities mounted the death toll to 1,57,157, the Union Health Ministry said. The positivity rate has been rising gradually, pushing it to 1.52 per cent. As per the Ministry`s data, there are 1,68,627 active cases at present after 11,288 patients were discharged in a day. The experts have expressed a number of possibilities which could be owed to the stride ranging from lax attitude of people towards following Covid protocols to the likeability of "mutations and new strains" causing the surge, as has been studied by the laboratories involved in Covid detection across the country. In mid-February, officials had said that the average daily new infections oscillated between 9,000 to 12,000 while the deaths were between 78 to 120. On February 9, India had reported 9,110 new cases, the lowest this year so far. Last year, the lowest 9,633 cases were recorded on June 3. Till now, 1,07,86,457 persons have been discharged so far. The recovery rate has reduced to 97.07 per cent. Last week, around 90 per cent of the weekly average cases came from six states -- Maharashtra, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Punjab, Karnataka and Gujarat. Central teams have been rushed to these states as well. The Ministry also informed that 6,27,668 samples were tested on Sunday. The cumulative tests done by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) so far stands at 21,68,58,774. So far, 1,43,01,266 doses of corona vaccine have been administered in the country since the drive began on January 16 after approval for `Covishield` and `Covaxin`. The third phase of vaccination against the Covid pandemic began on Monday covering 27 crore people above 60 and those above 45 years of age with comorbidities at 10,000 government and over 20,000 private vaccination centres. While people will be vaccinated free of cost at government hospitals, those taking the shots at private hospitals will have to pay.

India records over 15,000 new coronavirus cases

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi took his first dose of coronavirus vaccine at AIIMS in New Delhi on Monday.

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Took my first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine at AIIMS. 
 
Remarkable how our doctors and scientists have worked in quick time to strengthen the global fight against COVID-19. 
 
I appeal to all those who are eligible to take the vaccine. Together, let us make India COVID-19 free! <a href="https://t.co/5z5cvAoMrv">pic.twitter.com/5z5cvAoMrv</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1366200664402006016?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 1, 2021</a></blockquote>
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"Took my first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine at AIIMS. Remarkable how our doctors and scientists have worked in quick time to strengthen the global fight against COVID-19," India's prime minister said in a tweet.

"I appeal to all those who are eligible to take the vaccine. Together, let us make India COVID-19 free," India's prime minister added.

India began its second phase of vaccination for people aged above 60 and those between 45 and 59 years old from March 1.&nbsp;

Health authorities in India's national capital are set for the roll-out of the second phase of the inoculation drive amid a decline in COVID-19 cases witnessed in the last two months.

Over 13,000 beneficiaries had received the COVID-19 vaccine on Friday, the&nbsp;health department said with over 3.6 lakh beneficiaries having received the vaccine since the inoculation drive began a month ago in Delhi.

Health officials said although vaccination will be free at government centres in the capital, a set charge with a cap of Rs 250 per dose could be taken by private facilities.

Under the nationwide vaccination drive launched on January 16, a total of 4,319 health workers were administered the shots at 81 centres across Delhi on the first day.

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi took his first dose of coronavirus vaccine at AIIMS in New Delhi on Monday. Took my first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine at AIIMS.

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi took his first dose of coronavirus vaccine at AIIMS in New Delhi on Monday. Took my first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine at AIIMS. Remarkable how our doctors and scientists have worked in quick time to strengthen the global fight against COVID-19. I appeal to all those who are eligible to take the vaccine. Together, let us make India COVID-19 free! pic.twitter.com/5z5cvAoMrv — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 1, 2021 × "Took my first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine at AIIMS. Remarkable how our doctors and scientists have worked in quick time to strengthen the global fight against COVID-19," India's prime minister said in a tweet. "I appeal to all those who are eligible to take the vaccine. Together, let us make India COVID-19 free," India's prime minister added. India began its second phase of vaccination for people aged above 60 and those between 45 and 59 years old from March 1. Health authorities in India's national capital are set for the roll-out of the second phase of the inoculation drive amid a decline in COVID-19 cases witnessed in the last two months. Over 13,000 beneficiaries had received the COVID-19 vaccine on Friday, the health department said with over 3.6 lakh beneficiaries having received the vaccine since the inoculation drive began a month ago in Delhi. Health officials said although vaccination will be free at government centres in the capital, a set charge with a cap of Rs 250 per dose could be taken by private facilities. Under the nationwide vaccination drive launched on January 16, a total of 4,319 health workers were administered the shots at 81 centres across Delhi on the first day.

'Take the vaccine': PM Modi takes first dose of coronavirus vaccine at AIIMS, Delhi

Nepal's Chief of Army Staff, Purna Chandra Thapa on Monday received his first dose of the Made-in-India Covid-19 vaccine.&nbsp;

Nepal last month received the second shipment of one million doses of the coronavirus vaccines. The AstraZeneca vaccine is manufactured by the Serum Institute of India (SII) under the name Covishield. &nbsp;

Nepal began its nationwide inoculation drive after receiving the first one million Covishield vaccines following the emergency use approval in January. &nbsp;

An Air India aircraft carrying the consignment of Covid-19 vaccines had landed at the Tribhuvan International Airport in the morning, according to sources at the Indian Embassy in Nepal.&nbsp;

The Nepal government has decided to procure a total of two million doses of the vaccine manufactured by the SII. Last month, India gifted one million doses of Covishield vaccine to Nepal.&nbsp;

The Nepal government has already started administering the vaccines on health workers, security personnel and journalists on priority basis.&nbsp;

The second lot of vaccines would be used to inoculate people above 60 years of age, which is 8.73 per cent of Nepal's population, in the vaccination drive that will begin on March 7. &nbsp;

India is one of the world's biggest drugmakers and an increasing number of countries have already approached it for procuring coronavirus vaccines.&nbsp;

India, under the Vaccine Maitri initiative, has been providing coronavirus vaccines to its neighbouring countries. &nbsp;

India has sent consignments of domestically produced coronavirus vaccines under grant assistance to Bhutan, Maldives, Nepal, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Mauritius and Seychelles.&nbsp;

It is also undertaking commercial supplies of the doses to a number of countries, including Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Brazil and Morocco.&nbsp;

Nepal's Chief of Army Staff, Purna Chandra Thapa on Monday received his first dose of the Made-in-India Covid-19 vaccine. Nepal last month received the second shipment of one million doses of the coronavirus vaccines.

Nepal's Chief of Army Staff, Purna Chandra Thapa on Monday received his first dose of the Made-in-India Covid-19 vaccine. Nepal last month received the second shipment of one million doses of the coronavirus vaccines. The AstraZeneca vaccine is manufactured by the Serum Institute of India (SII) under the name Covishield. Nepal began its nationwide inoculation drive after receiving the first one million Covishield vaccines following the emergency use approval in January. An Air India aircraft carrying the consignment of Covid-19 vaccines had landed at the Tribhuvan International Airport in the morning, according to sources at the Indian Embassy in Nepal. The Nepal government has decided to procure a total of two million doses of the vaccine manufactured by the SII. Last month, India gifted one million doses of Covishield vaccine to Nepal. The Nepal government has already started administering the vaccines on health workers, security personnel and journalists on priority basis. The second lot of vaccines would be used to inoculate people above 60 years of age, which is 8.73 per cent of Nepal's population, in the vaccination drive that will begin on March 7. India is one of the world's biggest drugmakers and an increasing number of countries have already approached it for procuring coronavirus vaccines. India, under the Vaccine Maitri initiative, has been providing coronavirus vaccines to its neighbouring countries. India has sent consignments of domestically produced coronavirus vaccines under grant assistance to Bhutan, Maldives, Nepal, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Mauritius and Seychelles. It is also undertaking commercial supplies of the doses to a number of countries, including Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Brazil and Morocco.

Nepal's Army Chief gets Made-in-India Covid-19 vaccine's first dose

The activity appears to have started well before the May 2020 clashes between Indian and Chinese troops that triggered the border standoff along the Line of Actual Control in eastern Ladakh.

Mumbai power outrage likely due to China cyberattack

India's Maritime investment summit starting Tuesday will see investment announcements worth Rs 3 lakh crore, with 400 MoUs being signed. The summit, from 2nd to 4th March will be inaugurated by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi tomorrow.

"India is moving very fast in the maritime sector from Port development to port-led industrialization, ship-building, cruise tourism, ship breaking. All these sectors have seen the world taking note of India. The world community has taken a keen interest in the maritime sector development of India.... the world is joining it and&nbsp;seeing it as inspiration", Minister of state for ports and Shipping Mansukh Mandaviya told WION.

The ministry of ports is the main coordinating ministry for the event. 1.70 lakh people have registered and over 100 companies across the world will be taking part in it. Thursday will see "Chabahar day" which will see the participation of ministers from Armenia, Afghanistan, Iran, Russia, Uzbekistan. All in all, 24 countries will be joining the summit

India's key focus has been on connectivity via the sea in recent days, with Chabahar in the West becoming key in connecting to Afghanistan and beyond. January saw India giving two&nbsp;cranes for the port to Iran.

Mandaviya explained, "Chabahar port is an important destination, and we are developing it. two&nbsp;cranes have been put in. I will be going and inaugurating it. Chabahar connects us to CIS countries... which will increase connectivity to Europe. Chabahar port is important."

The minister is expected to visit Iran soon as part of India's increased engagement for the port. Towards the east, it is Kaladan Multimodal project in Myanmar being built by India. The minister said," Sittwe port has been built. Using the Kaladan river we will connect Mizoram to Sittwe port. Road work is ongoing, port work has been completed. Port is operationalized. In presence of PM, we could inaugurate the port soon"

Recent years have seen increased connectivity with Bangladesh using inland waterways. These inland waterways have provided connectivity to Tripura and lower Assam, with Bangladesh's Chattogram and Mongla port providing outlets to the sea for India's northeast.

&nbsp;

India's Maritime investment summit starting Tuesday will see investment announcements worth Rs 3 lakh crore, with 400 MoUs being signed. The summit, from 2nd to 4th March will be inaugurated by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi tomorrow.

India's Maritime investment summit starting Tuesday will see investment announcements worth Rs 3 lakh crore, with 400 MoUs being signed. The summit, from 2nd to 4th March will be inaugurated by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi tomorrow. "India is moving very fast in the maritime sector from Port development to port-led industrialization, ship-building, cruise tourism, ship breaking. All these sectors have seen the world taking note of India. The world community has taken a keen interest in the maritime sector development of India.... the world is joining it and seeing it as inspiration", Minister of state for ports and Shipping Mansukh Mandaviya told WION. The ministry of ports is the main coordinating ministry for the event. 1.70 lakh people have registered and over 100 companies across the world will be taking part in it. Thursday will see "Chabahar day" which will see the participation of ministers from Armenia, Afghanistan, Iran, Russia, Uzbekistan. All in all, 24 countries will be joining the summit India's key focus has been on connectivity via the sea in recent days, with Chabahar in the West becoming key in connecting to Afghanistan and beyond. January saw India giving two cranes for the port to Iran. Mandaviya explained, "Chabahar port is an important destination, and we are developing it. two cranes have been put in. I will be going and inaugurating it. Chabahar connects us to CIS countries... which will increase connectivity to Europe. Chabahar port is important." The minister is expected to visit Iran soon as part of India's increased engagement for the port. Towards the east, it is Kaladan Multimodal project in Myanmar being built by India. The minister said," Sittwe port has been built. Using the Kaladan river we will connect Mizoram to Sittwe port. Road work is ongoing, port work has been completed. Port is operationalized. In presence of PM, we could inaugurate the port soon" Recent years have seen increased connectivity with Bangladesh using inland waterways. These inland waterways have provided connectivity to Tripura and lower Assam, with Bangladesh's Chattogram and Mongla port providing outlets to the sea for India's northeast.

India's Maritime investment summit to see Rs 3 lakh crore investment announcements

China had launched a cyberattack against India's power grid targeting Mumbai on October 13 last year, in a warning message after the tension at the Ladakh border.

A report in The New York Times has claimed China has been targeting Indian utilities and infrastructure using cyberattacks to possibly coerce New Delhi on the border issue.

As per the report when the Indian soldiers were locked in a tense&nbsp;standoff with China along the Line of Control(LoC),&nbsp;Beijing injected malware into the electrical supply of the country. 
 
Watch: Power outage in Mumbai due to grid failure (Year 2020)

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The malware tracing was done by Recorded Future&nbsp;which is a cybersecurity company founded in 2009 with headquarters in Massachusetts. The company claims that most of the malware was not activated. It&nbsp;may mean that a small proportion of malware was used during the Mumbai power outage.

A Chinese state-sponsored group Red Echo has been held&nbsp;responsible for the Mumbai power outage. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-standoff-china-detains-bloggers-for-questioning-official-version-of-galwan-clash-365352">Also read | India-China standoff: China detains bloggers for questioning official version of Galwan clash</a>

Stuart Solomon, Recorded Future’s chief operating officer, said that the Chinese state-sponsored group Red Echo, “has been seen to systematically utilize advanced cyber intrusion techniques to quietly gain a foothold in nearly a dozen critical nodes across the Indian power generation and transmission infrastructure.”

"The study shows that as the battles raged in the Himalayas, taking at least two dozen lives, Chinese malware was flowing into the control systems that manage electric supply across India, along with a high-voltage transmission substation and a coal-fired power plant", NYT said.

The report said the flow of malware was pieced together by Recorded Future, a Somerville, Massachusetts, company that studies the use of the internet by state actors. It found that most of the malware was never activated.

"And because Recorded Future could not get inside India's power systems, it could not examine the details of the code itself, which was placed in strategic power-distribution systems across the country. While it has notified Indian authorities, so far they are not reporting what they have found", NYT said.

Stuart Solomon said that the Chinese state-sponsored group, which the firm named Red Echo, "has been seen to systematically utilize advanced cyber intrusion techniques to quietly gain a foothold in nearly a dozen critical nodes across the Indian power generation and transmission infrastructure."

The discovery raises the question about whether an outage that struck on October 13 in Mumbai, one of the country's busiest business hubs, was meant as a message from Beijing about what might happen if India pushed its border claims too vigorously, NYT said.

It added that news reports at the time quoted Indian officials as saying that the cause was a Chinese-origin cyberattack on a nearby electricity load-management centre. Authorities began a formal investigation, which is due to report in the coming weeks. Since then, Indian officials have gone silent about the Chinese code, whether it set off the Mumbai blackout and the evidence provided to them by Recorded Future that many elements of the nation's electric grid were the target of a sophisticated Chinese hacking effort.

NYT said the investigators who wrote the Recorded Future study, which is set to be published Monday, said that "the alleged link between the outage and the discovery of the unspecified malware" in the system "remains unsubstantiated." But they noted that "additional evidence suggested the coordinated targeting of the Indian load dispatch centres," which balance the electrical demands across regions of the country.

"I think the signalling is being done" by China to indicate "that we can and we have the capability to do this in times of a crisis," said retired Lt. Gen. D.S. Hooda, a cyber expert who oversaw India's borders with Pakistan and China. "It's like sending a warning to India that this capability exists with us", NYT quoted.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

China had launched a cyberattack against India's power grid targeting Mumbai on October 13 last year, in a warning message after the tension at the Ladakh border.

China had launched a cyberattack against India's power grid targeting Mumbai on October 13 last year, in a warning message after the tension at the Ladakh border. A report in The New York Times has claimed China has been targeting Indian utilities and infrastructure using cyberattacks to possibly coerce New Delhi on the border issue. As per the report when the Indian soldiers were locked in a tense standoff with China along the Line of Control(LoC), Beijing injected malware into the electrical supply of the country. Watch: Power outage in Mumbai due to grid failure (Year 2020) The malware tracing was done by Recorded Future which is a cybersecurity company founded in 2009 with headquarters in Massachusetts. The company claims that most of the malware was not activated. It may mean that a small proportion of malware was used during the Mumbai power outage. A Chinese state-sponsored group Red Echo has been held responsible for the Mumbai power outage. Also read | India-China standoff: China detains bloggers for questioning official version of Galwan clash Stuart Solomon, Recorded Future’s chief operating officer, said that the Chinese state-sponsored group Red Echo, “has been seen to systematically utilize advanced cyber intrusion techniques to quietly gain a foothold in nearly a dozen critical nodes across the Indian power generation and transmission infrastructure.” "The study shows that as the battles raged in the Himalayas, taking at least two dozen lives, Chinese malware was flowing into the control systems that manage electric supply across India, along with a high-voltage transmission substation and a coal-fired power plant", NYT said. The report said the flow of malware was pieced together by Recorded Future, a Somerville, Massachusetts, company that studies the use of the internet by state actors. It found that most of the malware was never activated. "And because Recorded Future could not get inside India's power systems, it could not examine the details of the code itself, which was placed in strategic power-distribution systems across the country. While it has notified Indian authorities, so far they are not reporting what they have found", NYT said. Stuart Solomon said that the Chinese state-sponsored group, which the firm named Red Echo, "has been seen to systematically utilize advanced cyber intrusion techniques to quietly gain a foothold in nearly a dozen critical nodes across the Indian power generation and transmission infrastructure." The discovery raises the question about whether an outage that struck on October 13 in Mumbai, one of the country's busiest business hubs, was meant as a message from Beijing about what might happen if India pushed its border claims too vigorously, NYT said. It added that news reports at the time quoted Indian officials as saying that the cause was a Chinese-origin cyberattack on a nearby electricity load-management centre. Authorities began a formal investigation, which is due to report in the coming weeks. Since then, Indian officials have gone silent about the Chinese code, whether it set off the Mumbai blackout and the evidence provided to them by Recorded Future that many elements of the nation's electric grid were the target of a sophisticated Chinese hacking effort. NYT said the investigators who wrote the Recorded Future study, which is set to be published Monday, said that "the alleged link between the outage and the discovery of the unspecified malware" in the system "remains unsubstantiated." But they noted that "additional evidence suggested the coordinated targeting of the Indian load dispatch centres," which balance the electrical demands across regions of the country. "I think the signalling is being done" by China to indicate "that we can and we have the capability to do this in times of a crisis," said retired Lt. Gen. D.S. Hooda, a cyber expert who oversaw India's borders with Pakistan and China. "It's like sending a warning to India that this capability exists with us", NYT quoted. (With inputs from agencies)

Chinese cyberattack that caused the 2020 Mumbai blackout was a 'warning shot': Report

India is all set to start phase-II of its vaccination drive from March 1. But, before it begins, there are a lot of questions on everyone's mind.

India: Vaccine prices capped at over 3.4$/dose

A man died after a chicken tied with a knife engaged in an illegal cockfight accidentally cut into his groin in the southern Indian state of Telangana.&nbsp;

The knife was attached to the rooster's leg for the cockfight and as it tried to escape, the man's groin was accidentally hit, police said on Saturday.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/now-lab-grown-chicken-nugget-debuts-in-singapore-351667">Now, lab-grown chicken nugget debuts in Singapore</a>

The victim, who was also the owner of the rooster, died due to loss of blood before he could reach a hospital in the Karimnagar district earlier this week, local police officer B. Jeevan told news agency 
AFP.

The cop also said that the owner was among the 16 people who organised the cockfight in the village of Lothunur.&nbsp;

"We are searching for the other 15 people involved in organising the illegal fight," the police officer said.

The rooster was briefly held at a local police station before being sent to a poultry farm.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/as-afghanistans-iconic-chicken-street-fades-peace-brings-new-hope-347017">As Afghanistan's iconic chicken street fades, peace brings new hope</a>

The other people involved could face charges of manslaughter, illegal betting, and organising the cockfight.&nbsp;

Such fights are banned but are common in rural parts of the country in states like Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Odisha.&nbsp;

Knives or blades up to three-inch are fitted into a bird's legs for the bight as people bet for the match.&nbsp;

Thousands of roosters die in these battles, still, large gatherings participate to witness the event.&nbsp;

A man died after a chicken tied with a knife engaged in an illegal cockfight accidentally cut into his groin in the southern Indian state of Telangana. The knife was attached to the rooster's leg for the cockfight and as it tried to escape, the man's groin was accidentally hit, police said on Saturday.

A man died after a chicken tied with a knife engaged in an illegal cockfight accidentally cut into his groin in the southern Indian state of Telangana. The knife was attached to the rooster's leg for the cockfight and as it tried to escape, the man's groin was accidentally hit, police said on Saturday. Also read | Now, lab-grown chicken nugget debuts in Singapore The victim, who was also the owner of the rooster, died due to loss of blood before he could reach a hospital in the Karimnagar district earlier this week, local police officer B. Jeevan told news agency AFP. The cop also said that the owner was among the 16 people who organised the cockfight in the village of Lothunur. "We are searching for the other 15 people involved in organising the illegal fight," the police officer said. The rooster was briefly held at a local police station before being sent to a poultry farm. Also read | As Afghanistan's iconic chicken street fades, peace brings new hope The other people involved could face charges of manslaughter, illegal betting, and organising the cockfight. Such fights are banned but are common in rural parts of the country in states like Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Odisha. Knives or blades up to three-inch are fitted into a bird's legs for the bight as people bet for the match. Thousands of roosters die in these battles, still, large gatherings participate to witness the event.

Owner dies after bird attached with knife hits him during cockfight

The next phase of the COVID-19 vaccination drive for people above 60 years and those aged 45 and above with comorbidities will begin from March 1 and registration on the Co-WIN2.0 portal will open at 9 am on Monday.

Citizens will be able to register and book an appointment for vaccination, anytime and anywhere, using the Co-WIN 2.0 portal or through other IT applications such as Aarogya Setu.

Registration will open at 9 am on March 1 at www.Cowin.Gov.In, the ministry said.

All citizens that are aged, or will attain the age of 60 or more as on January 1, 2022 are eligible to register, in addition to all such citizens that are aged, or will attain the age of 45 to 59 years as on January 1, 2022, and have any of the specified 20 comorbidities.

This information was shared during the orientation workshop organised by the Union Health Ministry and the National Health Authority (NHA) for the 10,000 private hospitals under Ayushman Bharat PMJAY, more than 600 hospitals empanelled under CGHS and other private hospitals empanelled under State Government's Health Insurance Schemes, on Co-WIN2.0.

The modalities of the new features integrated in the Co-WIN2.0 digital platform were explained to them. &nbsp;

The private empanelled COVID-19 Vaccination Centres (CVCs) were also trained on various aspects of the process of vaccination and management of adverse events following immunisation (AEFI) through video conference with the support of the National Health Authority (NHA).

"There will be only one live appointment for a beneficiary at any point of time for each dose."

"Appointments for any date for a COVID Vaccination Center will be closed at 3 pm on that day for which the slots were opened," the ministry said.

For example, for March 1 the slots will be open from 9 am till 3 pm and the appointments can be booked anytime before that, subject to availability.&nbsp;

However, on March 1, an appointment can also be booked for any future date for which vaccination slots are available. A slot for the second dose will also be booked at the same COVID Vaccination Centre on 29th day of the date of appointment of the 1st dose.

If a beneficiary cancels a first dose appointment, then appointment of both doses will be cancelled, the ministry said.

According to the ministry, there will be a facility of on-site registration so that eligible beneficiaries can walk into identified vaccination centres, get themselves registered and inoculated.

The eligible persons will be able to register at the Co-WIN2.0 portal through their mobile number, through a step by step process.&nbsp;

With one mobile number, a person can register as many as four beneficiaries. However, all those registered on one mobile number will have nothing in common except the mobile number, the ministry said.

The photo ID card number for each such beneficiary must be different. Either of the following photo identity documents can be used by citizens for availing of online registration -- Aadhaar Card/Letter, Electoral Photo Identity Card (EPIC), passport, driving license, PAN Card, NPR Smart Card or Pension Document with photograph.

A user guide for the citizen registration and appointment for vaccination has also been uploaded on the websites of the Union Ministry of Health and National Health Authority (NHA).&nbsp;

It was also explained that the central government shall procure all the vaccines and supply them free of cost to the states and UTs who in turn will disburse them further to the government and private COVID Vaccination Centres (CVCs), the ministry said.

It was re-iterated that all vaccines provided to beneficiaries at the government health facilities will be entirely free of cost, while private facilities cannot charge the beneficiary a sum above Rs 250 per person per dose (Rs 150 for vaccines and Rs 100 as operational charges).

Private hospitals will have to remit the cost of vaccine doses allotted to them in a designated account of National Health Authority (NHA). Payment gateway for the same is being enabled by the NHA on their website, the ministry said.

Government of India has supplied two COVID-19 vaccines, Covishield and Covaxin, free of cost to the states and UTs to vaccinate healthcare workers (HCWs) and frontline workers (FLWs) and they will also be able to cover the next priority group i.E. 60 years plus age group and the age group of 45 to 59 years suffering from pre-specified co-morbidities.

The states have been requested to operationalise the linkages between the CVCs &nbsp;(both government and private empanelled facilities) with the nearest cold chain points for ensuring smooth vaccine delivery to (CVCs).

The ministry specified 20 co-morbidities within the 45-59 years age group including heart failure with hospital admission in past one year, moderate or severe valvular heart disease, coronary artery disease, CT/ MRI documented stroke, diabetes (&gt;10 years or with complications) and hypertension on treatment, end-stage kidney disease on haemodialysis, diagnosis of any solid cancer on or after 2000 or currently on any cancer therapy for which one will have to submit a medical certificate.

The ministry has shared the format of the simplified one page certificate to be signed by any registered medical practitioner.&nbsp;

The certificate can either be uploaded on Co-WIN2.0 by the beneficiary while self registering or a hard copy can be carried by the beneficiary to the CVC, the ministry said.

The next phase of the COVID-19 vaccination drive for people above 60 years and those aged 45 and above with comorbidities will begin from March 1 and registration on the Co-WIN2.

The next phase of the COVID-19 vaccination drive for people above 60 years and those aged 45 and above with comorbidities will begin from March 1 and registration on the Co-WIN2.0 portal will open at 9 am on Monday. Citizens will be able to register and book an appointment for vaccination, anytime and anywhere, using the Co-WIN 2.0 portal or through other IT applications such as Aarogya Setu. Registration will open at 9 am on March 1 at www.Cowin.Gov.In, the ministry said. All citizens that are aged, or will attain the age of 60 or more as on January 1, 2022 are eligible to register, in addition to all such citizens that are aged, or will attain the age of 45 to 59 years as on January 1, 2022, and have any of the specified 20 comorbidities. This information was shared during the orientation workshop organised by the Union Health Ministry and the National Health Authority (NHA) for the 10,000 private hospitals under Ayushman Bharat PMJAY, more than 600 hospitals empanelled under CGHS and other private hospitals empanelled under State Government's Health Insurance Schemes, on Co-WIN2.0. The modalities of the new features integrated in the Co-WIN2.0 digital platform were explained to them. The private empanelled COVID-19 Vaccination Centres (CVCs) were also trained on various aspects of the process of vaccination and management of adverse events following immunisation (AEFI) through video conference with the support of the National Health Authority (NHA). "There will be only one live appointment for a beneficiary at any point of time for each dose." "Appointments for any date for a COVID Vaccination Center will be closed at 3 pm on that day for which the slots were opened," the ministry said. For example, for March 1 the slots will be open from 9 am till 3 pm and the appointments can be booked anytime before that, subject to availability. However, on March 1, an appointment can also be booked for any future date for which vaccination slots are available. A slot for the second dose will also be booked at the same COVID Vaccination Centre on 29th day of the date of appointment of the 1st dose. If a beneficiary cancels a first dose appointment, then appointment of both doses will be cancelled, the ministry said. According to the ministry, there will be a facility of on-site registration so that eligible beneficiaries can walk into identified vaccination centres, get themselves registered and inoculated. The eligible persons will be able to register at the Co-WIN2.0 portal through their mobile number, through a step by step process. With one mobile number, a person can register as many as four beneficiaries. However, all those registered on one mobile number will have nothing in common except the mobile number, the ministry said. The photo ID card number for each such beneficiary must be different. Either of the following photo identity documents can be used by citizens for availing of online registration -- Aadhaar Card/Letter, Electoral Photo Identity Card (EPIC), passport, driving license, PAN Card, NPR Smart Card or Pension Document with photograph. A user guide for the citizen registration and appointment for vaccination has also been uploaded on the websites of the Union Ministry of Health and National Health Authority (NHA). It was also explained that the central government shall procure all the vaccines and supply them free of cost to the states and UTs who in turn will disburse them further to the government and private COVID Vaccination Centres (CVCs), the ministry said. It was re-iterated that all vaccines provided to beneficiaries at the government health facilities will be entirely free of cost, while private facilities cannot charge the beneficiary a sum above Rs 250 per person per dose (Rs 150 for vaccines and Rs 100 as operational charges). Private hospitals will have to remit the cost of vaccine doses allotted to them in a designated account of National Health Authority (NHA). Payment gateway for the same is being enabled by the NHA on their website, the ministry said. Government of India has supplied two COVID-19 vaccines, Covishield and Covaxin, free of cost to the states and UTs to vaccinate healthcare workers (HCWs) and frontline workers (FLWs) and they will also be able to cover the next priority group i.E. 60 years plus age group and the age group of 45 to 59 years suffering from pre-specified co-morbidities. The states have been requested to operationalise the linkages between the CVCs (both government and private empanelled facilities) with the nearest cold chain points for ensuring smooth vaccine delivery to (CVCs). The ministry specified 20 co-morbidities within the 45-59 years age group including heart failure with hospital admission in past one year, moderate or severe valvular heart disease, coronary artery disease, CT/ MRI documented stroke, diabetes (>10 years or with complications) and hypertension on treatment, end-stage kidney disease on haemodialysis, diagnosis of any solid cancer on or after 2000 or currently on any cancer therapy for which one will have to submit a medical certificate. The ministry has shared the format of the simplified one page certificate to be signed by any registered medical practitioner. The certificate can either be uploaded on Co-WIN2.0 by the beneficiary while self registering or a hard copy can be carried by the beneficiary to the CVC, the ministry said.

Registration for next phase of Covid vaccination in India to open at 9 am on Monday

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Sri Lanka offers strategic deep-sea port to India, Japan

China may deploy drones on border with India

Chinese hackers target critical Indian infrastructure

As threat of vaccine inequity looms, here's how India is helping the world heal

PM Modi inaugurates 'Maritime India Summit 2021'

Leading the way: Politicians, Sportsperson and movie stars get vaccinated in India

At UNHRC, India highlights Pakistan providing 'pensions' to terrorists

Five Indian states account for over 84% active COVID-19 infections

India begins second phase of COVID-19 vaccination drive

India begins second phase of COVID-19 vaccination drive

News Alert: Indian PM Modi gets first dose of COVID-19 vaccine at AIIMS, Delhi

UAE welcomes India-Pakistan joint statement on ceasefire observance

India-Madagascar FMs talk; New Delhi to send 1000 tonnes of rice and malaria medicines

COVID vaccination phase 2 India: Check who is eligible

India records over 15,000 new coronavirus cases

'Take the vaccine': PM Modi takes first dose of coronavirus vaccine at AIIMS, Delhi

Nepal's Army Chief gets Made-in-India Covid-19 vaccine's first dose

Mumbai power outrage likely due to China cyberattack

India's Maritime investment summit to see Rs 3 lakh crore investment announcements

Chinese cyberattack that caused the 2020 Mumbai blackout was a 'warning shot': Report