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Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/narendra-modi">Narendra Modi </a>on Monday said that India`s growth engine would be further boosted with the development of Assam and the northeastern region.

Addressing a massive public gathering at Silapathar in eastern Assam`s Dhemaji district, the Prime Minister said that the 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat'&nbsp;vision would be further strengthened with the 'Aatmanirbhar Assam'&nbsp;and northeast.

"To achieve the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision continuous endeavours are going on. Whenever I visit Assam, I get the fresh impetus and inspirations to do more for the northeastern region," Modi said after inaugurating and laying foundation stones of five mega projects worth Rs 3,000 crore in gas, oil and education sectors.

"We are correcting the faults of the previous governments. If the policy is accurate, destiny would be perfect. Connectivity, health, education and infrastructure developments were ignored by the previous governments."

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-committed-to-enhance-capabilities-in-defence-manufacturing-pm-modi-365375" hreflang="en">India committed to enhance capabilities in defence manufacturing: PM Modi</a>

The Prime Minister said that the government is trying to give engineering and medical education in local languages so that its benefit could be obtained by the poor students and learners residing in the far-flung areas. Referring to the song of a great singer and composer Bhupen Hazarika and rich Assamese cinema, Modi said that Assam`s all-round development would make the development of India easier.

"The entire world is now respectful of India`s engineering and technological milestones," he pointed out. The Prime Minister said that as the government is working with the mantra of `Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas`, LPG and electricity connections are being given to 100 per cent households in Assam and other parts of India as these were earlier available to less than 40 to 50 per cent families.

Union Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas Dharmendra Pradhan said that Rs 95,000 crore would be invested in Assam`s gas and oil sector for the projects initiated by the Prime Minister on Monday. He said that the earlier Congress-led UPA government headed by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh despite him representing Assam in the Parliament did nothing to utilise the gas and oil resources for the benefit of Assam and the country.

Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal in his speech said that Prime Minister Modi with his great vision for the all-round development of the region has won the hearts of every person of the eight northeastern states.

Assam Governor Jagdish Mukhi and state Finance and Health Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma also spoke in the gatherings. Monday`s visit and public address is the third in poll-bound Assam by the Prime Minister within 30 days since his visit to Sivasagar on January 23 and at Dhekiajuli in Assam`s Sonitpur district on February 7. 
&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said that India`s growth engine would be further boosted with the development of Assam and the northeastern region. Addressing a massive public gathering at Silapathar in eastern Assam`s Dhemaji district, the Prime Minister said that the 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' vision would be further strengthened with the 'Aatmanirbhar Assam' and northeast.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said that India`s growth engine would be further boosted with the development of Assam and the northeastern region. Addressing a massive public gathering at Silapathar in eastern Assam`s Dhemaji district, the Prime Minister said that the 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' vision would be further strengthened with the 'Aatmanirbhar Assam' and northeast. "To achieve the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision continuous endeavours are going on. Whenever I visit Assam, I get the fresh impetus and inspirations to do more for the northeastern region," Modi said after inaugurating and laying foundation stones of five mega projects worth Rs 3,000 crore in gas, oil and education sectors. "We are correcting the faults of the previous governments. If the policy is accurate, destiny would be perfect. Connectivity, health, education and infrastructure developments were ignored by the previous governments." Also read| India committed to enhance capabilities in defence manufacturing: PM Modi The Prime Minister said that the government is trying to give engineering and medical education in local languages so that its benefit could be obtained by the poor students and learners residing in the far-flung areas. Referring to the song of a great singer and composer Bhupen Hazarika and rich Assamese cinema, Modi said that Assam`s all-round development would make the development of India easier. "The entire world is now respectful of India`s engineering and technological milestones," he pointed out. The Prime Minister said that as the government is working with the mantra of `Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas`, LPG and electricity connections are being given to 100 per cent households in Assam and other parts of India as these were earlier available to less than 40 to 50 per cent families. Union Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas Dharmendra Pradhan said that Rs 95,000 crore would be invested in Assam`s gas and oil sector for the projects initiated by the Prime Minister on Monday. He said that the earlier Congress-led UPA government headed by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh despite him representing Assam in the Parliament did nothing to utilise the gas and oil resources for the benefit of Assam and the country. Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal in his speech said that Prime Minister Modi with his great vision for the all-round development of the region has won the hearts of every person of the eight northeastern states. Assam Governor Jagdish Mukhi and state Finance and Health Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma also spoke in the gatherings. Monday`s visit and public address is the third in poll-bound Assam by the Prime Minister within 30 days since his visit to Sivasagar on January 23 and at Dhekiajuli in Assam`s Sonitpur district on February 7.

India's growth engine to be powered by Assam, NE: PM

India had an age-old experience in making arms and military equipment but after Independence, this capacity was not strengthened, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Monday, asserting that now the country is committed to enhancing its capabilities in defence manufacturing at a fast pace.

Addressing a webinar on the effective implementation of the Union Budget's provisions in the defence sector, the prime minister listed a series of measures taken by his government to boost self-reliance in the defence sector.

"Before Independence, we used to have hundreds of ordnance factories. In both the World Wars, arms were exported from India on a large scale, but after Independence due to a number of reasons, this system was not strengthened as much as it should have," he said.

"The condition is such that even for small arms we have to look at other nations. India is amongst the biggest defence importers and this is not a matter of pride," Modi stressed.

He said it was not that the people of India do not have the talent or capability and pointed out that India did not make ventilators before the coronavirus period but now manufactures thousands of ventilators.

"An India that could reach Mars, could have made modern weapons also but it became an easy way to import weapons from abroad," he said.

But now India is working hard to change the situation and India is committed to enhance its capacities and capabilities at a fast pace, the prime minister asserted.

Modi said with initiatives like de-licensing, de-regulation, export promotion, foreign investment liberalisation, the government has taken several measures to give the defence manufacturing sector a boost.

He said with the establishment of the chief of defence staff post, bringing uniformity in the procurement process and induction of equipment has become easy.

India had an age-old experience in making arms and military equipment but after Independence, this capacity was not strengthened, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Monday, asserting that now the country is committed to enhancing its capabilities in defence manufacturing at a fast pace.

India had an age-old experience in making arms and military equipment but after Independence, this capacity was not strengthened, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Monday, asserting that now the country is committed to enhancing its capabilities in defence manufacturing at a fast pace. Addressing a webinar on the effective implementation of the Union Budget's provisions in the defence sector, the prime minister listed a series of measures taken by his government to boost self-reliance in the defence sector. "Before Independence, we used to have hundreds of ordnance factories. In both the World Wars, arms were exported from India on a large scale, but after Independence due to a number of reasons, this system was not strengthened as much as it should have," he said. "The condition is such that even for small arms we have to look at other nations. India is amongst the biggest defence importers and this is not a matter of pride," Modi stressed. He said it was not that the people of India do not have the talent or capability and pointed out that India did not make ventilators before the coronavirus period but now manufactures thousands of ventilators. "An India that could reach Mars, could have made modern weapons also but it became an easy way to import weapons from abroad," he said. But now India is working hard to change the situation and India is committed to enhance its capacities and capabilities at a fast pace, the prime minister asserted. Modi said with initiatives like de-licensing, de-regulation, export promotion, foreign investment liberalisation, the government has taken several measures to give the defence manufacturing sector a boost. He said with the establishment of the chief of defence staff post, bringing uniformity in the procurement process and induction of equipment has become easy.

India committed to enhance capabilities in defence manufacturing: PM Modi

The Supreme Court on Monday sought responses from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/amazon-tells-india-regulator-its-partner-future-retail-is-misleading-public-339244">Future Retail</a> Ltd and others on Amazon's plea against the Delhi High Court direction to maintain status quo on the Future-Reliance deal.

A bench comprising Justices R F Nariman and B R Gavai issued notices to Future Retail Ltd, chairperson Kishore Biyani and others and sought their replies.

The apex court said the proceedings before the National Company Law Tribunal will go on and but will not culminate into any final order on amalgamation of FRL with Reliance.

While issuing notice distinct to FRL and others, the bench says that reply to the appeal of Amazon be filed in three weeks and rejoinder after two weeks thereafter and the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amazon-india-dodged-indian-regulators-report-364488">Amazon's </a>appeal will be listed for hearing after five weeks.

Last month, Amazon had approached the Delhi High Court seeking enforcement of the interim order of the Emergency Arbitrator (EA) at the Singapore International Arbitration Centre (SIAC) that had restrained FRL from going ahead with the deal with Reliance.

In the interim order on February 8, the division bench said it was staying the single judge order as firstly, FRL was not a party to the share subscription agreement (SSA) between Amazon and Future Coupons Pvt Ltd (FCPL) and the US e-commerce giant was not a party to the deal between FRL and Reliance Retail.

The Supreme Court on Monday sought responses from Future Retail Ltd and others on Amazon's plea against the Delhi High Court direction to maintain status quo on the Future-Reliance deal.

The Supreme Court on Monday sought responses from Future Retail Ltd and others on Amazon's plea against the Delhi High Court direction to maintain status quo on the Future-Reliance deal. A bench comprising Justices R F Nariman and B R Gavai issued notices to Future Retail Ltd, chairperson Kishore Biyani and others and sought their replies. The apex court said the proceedings before the National Company Law Tribunal will go on and but will not culminate into any final order on amalgamation of FRL with Reliance. While issuing notice distinct to FRL and others, the bench says that reply to the appeal of Amazon be filed in three weeks and rejoinder after two weeks thereafter and the Amazon's appeal will be listed for hearing after five weeks. Last month, Amazon had approached the Delhi High Court seeking enforcement of the interim order of the Emergency Arbitrator (EA) at the Singapore International Arbitration Centre (SIAC) that had restrained FRL from going ahead with the deal with Reliance. In the interim order on February 8, the division bench said it was staying the single judge order as firstly, FRL was not a party to the share subscription agreement (SSA) between Amazon and Future Coupons Pvt Ltd (FCPL) and the US e-commerce giant was not a party to the deal between FRL and Reliance Retail.

Supreme Court issues notice to Future Retail, others on Amazon's plea

Due to the spike in the coronavirus cases in the past few days, Amravati district in Maharashtra's Vidarbha region will be placed under a week-long lockdown from 8 pm on February 22, a state minister said on Sunday.

The lockdown will be in force till 8 am on March 1, minister Yashomati Thakur said.

Apart from the week-long lockdown in Amravati, certain restrictions will be in place in four other districts of Amravati division- Akola, Washim, Buldhana and Yavatmal- with a view to curb the spread of the virus, an official said.

Thakur, who is the district guardian minister of Amravati, on Sunday reviewed the coronavirus situation.

She said that the week-long lockdown in Amravati was essential to control the recent spike in cases.

"During the lockdown, all shops, except those dealing in essential commodities, will remain shut along with the government and private educational institutions, private coaching classes, training schools. People can buy items of daily need from 9 am to 5 pm," the minister said.

Cinema houses, gyms, swimming pools, parks will remain shut and gatherings for entertainment, educational, cultural, religious purposes etc will not be permitted, she added.

The number of beds for COVID-19 treatment will be increased from 1,400 to 1,600 in the city and strict restrictions will be enforced in nine containment zones declared by the Amravati civic body, Thakur said.

She said that industries that have been given permission earlier will continue operations, while government offices and banks will work with 15 per cent staff or a minimum of 15 persons.

"Hotels and restaurants will sell only parcels while goods transport will continue unrestricted during the February 22-March 1 lockdown," she said.

According to the official, the district has reported 7,470 COVID-19 cases and 43 deaths since February 1, including a record single-day addition of 727 cases on Saturday.

The tally rose by 709 cases on Sunday, after which Divisional Commissioner Piyush Singh announced certain restrictions in Amravati, Akola, Washim, Buldhana and Yavatmal, he said.

The restrictions in other districts of the division will be for 36 hours, barring Amravati and Achalpur, Divisional Commissioner Singh said.

District Collector Shailesh Naval said that educational offices, non-teaching staff, research staff and scientists will be permitted for e-information, evaluation of answer sheets and result declaration work only.

Restrictions on number of passengers in different types of vehicles have been put in place, while inter-district bus transport will operate at 50 per cent capacity, that too with passengers compulsorily maintaining social distancing and wearing masks, he said.

"All concessions given under the 'Mission Begin Again' stand cancelled till 8 am of March 1," Naval said.

Due to the spike in the coronavirus cases in the past few days, Amravati district in Maharashtra's Vidarbha region will be placed under a week-long lockdown from 8 pm on February 22, a state minister said on Sunday.

Due to the spike in the coronavirus cases in the past few days, Amravati district in Maharashtra's Vidarbha region will be placed under a week-long lockdown from 8 pm on February 22, a state minister said on Sunday. The lockdown will be in force till 8 am on March 1, minister Yashomati Thakur said. Apart from the week-long lockdown in Amravati, certain restrictions will be in place in four other districts of Amravati division- Akola, Washim, Buldhana and Yavatmal- with a view to curb the spread of the virus, an official said. Thakur, who is the district guardian minister of Amravati, on Sunday reviewed the coronavirus situation. She said that the week-long lockdown in Amravati was essential to control the recent spike in cases. "During the lockdown, all shops, except those dealing in essential commodities, will remain shut along with the government and private educational institutions, private coaching classes, training schools. People can buy items of daily need from 9 am to 5 pm," the minister said. Cinema houses, gyms, swimming pools, parks will remain shut and gatherings for entertainment, educational, cultural, religious purposes etc will not be permitted, she added. The number of beds for COVID-19 treatment will be increased from 1,400 to 1,600 in the city and strict restrictions will be enforced in nine containment zones declared by the Amravati civic body, Thakur said. She said that industries that have been given permission earlier will continue operations, while government offices and banks will work with 15 per cent staff or a minimum of 15 persons. "Hotels and restaurants will sell only parcels while goods transport will continue unrestricted during the February 22-March 1 lockdown," she said. According to the official, the district has reported 7,470 COVID-19 cases and 43 deaths since February 1, including a record single-day addition of 727 cases on Saturday. The tally rose by 709 cases on Sunday, after which Divisional Commissioner Piyush Singh announced certain restrictions in Amravati, Akola, Washim, Buldhana and Yavatmal, he said. The restrictions in other districts of the division will be for 36 hours, barring Amravati and Achalpur, Divisional Commissioner Singh said. District Collector Shailesh Naval said that educational offices, non-teaching staff, research staff and scientists will be permitted for e-information, evaluation of answer sheets and result declaration work only. Restrictions on number of passengers in different types of vehicles have been put in place, while inter-district bus transport will operate at 50 per cent capacity, that too with passengers compulsorily maintaining social distancing and wearing masks, he said. "All concessions given under the 'Mission Begin Again' stand cancelled till 8 am of March 1," Naval said.

Week-long lockdown in Maharashtra's Amravati from Monday

India will be developing a Maldives National Defence Force Coast Guard Harbour at Sifvaru, Uthuru Thilafalhu (UTF), the pact for which was signed on Sunday. The pact was signed during Indian External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar's two-day Maldives visit.

EAM in a tweet said, "Glad to sign with Defence Minister Mariya Didi the UTF Harbour Project agreement. Will strengthen Maldivian Coast Guard capability and facilitate regional HADR efforts. Partners in development, partners in security."

Work on the project will be completed in two&nbsp;phases and expected to be completed in three&nbsp;years. The pact aims to "develop, support and maintain" the harbour and is part of the request made by the Maldivian government in April 2013 to the Indian government to enhance the capability of the Maldivian Defence forces.

Requests were also sent by Male to Delhi in October 2015, March 2016. The coast guard pact was also key during April 2016 Action Plan for Defence Cooperation under the former Yameen government of Maldives. The terms of reference for the project were discussed during the joint staff talks held in June 2018, January 2019 and June 2019 and September 2019.

During the visit, New Delhi also extended a $50 million dollar line of credit (LOC) agreement for defence projects. The LOC for defence will be used as per priorities of govt of Maldives to source equipment or projects from India like any other civilian LOCs.

India and Maldives have close engagement on defence and security. India is supporting the Maldives in one of the key issues--maritime surveillance of its large Exclusive Economic Zone in the Indian ocean. Last year, India sent Dornier Maritime Surveillance aircraft for Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) that is being used in Maritime &amp; exclusive economic zone (EEZ) surveillance, Humanitarian Assistance, Disaster and Medical Relief.

India will be developing a Maldives National Defence Force Coast Guard Harbour at Sifvaru, Uthuru Thilafalhu (UTF), the pact for which was signed on Sunday. The pact was signed during Indian External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar's two-day Maldives visit.

India will be developing a Maldives National Defence Force Coast Guard Harbour at Sifvaru, Uthuru Thilafalhu (UTF), the pact for which was signed on Sunday. The pact was signed during Indian External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar's two-day Maldives visit. EAM in a tweet said, "Glad to sign with Defence Minister Mariya Didi the UTF Harbour Project agreement. Will strengthen Maldivian Coast Guard capability and facilitate regional HADR efforts. Partners in development, partners in security." Work on the project will be completed in two phases and expected to be completed in three years. The pact aims to "develop, support and maintain" the harbour and is part of the request made by the Maldivian government in April 2013 to the Indian government to enhance the capability of the Maldivian Defence forces. Requests were also sent by Male to Delhi in October 2015, March 2016. The coast guard pact was also key during April 2016 Action Plan for Defence Cooperation under the former Yameen government of Maldives. The terms of reference for the project were discussed during the joint staff talks held in June 2018, January 2019 and June 2019 and September 2019. During the visit, New Delhi also extended a $50 million dollar line of credit (LOC) agreement for defence projects. The LOC for defence will be used as per priorities of govt of Maldives to source equipment or projects from India like any other civilian LOCs. India and Maldives have close engagement on defence and security. India is supporting the Maldives in one of the key issues--maritime surveillance of its large Exclusive Economic Zone in the Indian ocean. Last year, India sent Dornier Maritime Surveillance aircraft for Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) that is being used in Maritime & exclusive economic zone (EEZ) surveillance, Humanitarian Assistance, Disaster and Medical Relief.

India, Maldives sign pact on development of Coast Guard Harbour

The disengagement process by India and China in eastern Ladakh is 'complete' after nine rounds of diplomatic and military level talks between the two neighbours, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said here on Sunday as he hit out at Congress for 'doubting' Indian soldiers' bravery.

The country will not allow any "unilateral action" on its border and will pay any cost to thwart such attempts, he told the Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha's state conference here.

"After nine rounds of military and diplomatic dialogue, the disengagement process is complete. But unfortunately the Congress is doubting Indian army's bravery.... Isn't it insulting to the soldiers who do the supreme sacrifice," he said.

Twenty Indian army personnel were killed in the Galwan clash with the Chinese troops last year during the face-off.

The government under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi "has never compromised with country's unity, territorial integrity and sovereignty" and it shall never do so, he asserted.&nbsp;

The disengagement process by India and China in eastern Ladakh is 'complete' after nine rounds of diplomatic and military level talks between the two neighbours, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said here on Sunday as he hit out at Congress for 'doubting' Indian soldiers' bravery.

The disengagement process by India and China in eastern Ladakh is 'complete' after nine rounds of diplomatic and military level talks between the two neighbours, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said here on Sunday as he hit out at Congress for 'doubting' Indian soldiers' bravery. The country will not allow any "unilateral action" on its border and will pay any cost to thwart such attempts, he told the Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha's state conference here. "After nine rounds of military and diplomatic dialogue, the disengagement process is complete. But unfortunately the Congress is doubting Indian army's bravery.... Isn't it insulting to the soldiers who do the supreme sacrifice," he said. Twenty Indian army personnel were killed in the Galwan clash with the Chinese troops last year during the face-off. The government under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi "has never compromised with country's unity, territorial integrity and sovereignty" and it shall never do so, he asserted.

Sino-India disengagement process in eastern Ladakh complete, says Rajnath Singh

Serum Institute of India (SII), the world's biggest vaccine maker by volume, on Sunday asked for patience from foreign governments awaiting their supply of COVID-19 shots, saying it had been directed to prioritise India's requirements.

"...I humbly request you to please be patient," SII's Chief Executive Adar Poonawalla said in a tweet, adding the company "has been directed to prioritise the huge needs of India and along with that balance the needs of the rest of the world."

"We are trying our best," Poonawalla said.

Based in the western Indian city of Pune, the company is manufacturing the Oxford University/AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine, one of the two shots that India is using to initially vaccinate some 300 million people as part of a national inoculation drive.

Many low-and middle-income countries, ranging from Bangladesh to Brazil, are depending on SII's AstraZeneca vaccine, branded COVISHIELD by the Indian company.

But demand is growing, including from Western countries like Canada, where Poonawalla has promised to deliver the COVISHIELD vaccine next month.

Britain's drug regulator is also auditing manufacturing processes at SII, potentially paving the way for the COVISHIELD vaccine to be shipped from there to the UK and other countries..

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government has come under criticism for the slow take-off of its vaccination drive but health authorities are preparing to expand the number of inoculation substantially in coming weeks.

India has vaccinated around 11 million people since mid-January.

With more than 10.9 million confirmed infections, India has the world's second highest number of COVID-19 cases, behind only the United States.

The country is currently reporting around 12,000 new infections on average each day, a fraction of its peak from last September, according to a Reuters analysis.

But federal health authorities on Sunday said they had written to some states that are currently seeing a surge in cases, asking them to improve overall testing, surveillance and monitoring of COVID-19 mutations.

Serum Institute of India (SII), the world's biggest vaccine maker by volume, on Sunday asked for patience from foreign governments awaiting their supply of COVID-19 shots, saying it had been directed to prioritise India's requirements.

Serum Institute of India (SII), the world's biggest vaccine maker by volume, on Sunday asked for patience from foreign governments awaiting their supply of COVID-19 shots, saying it had been directed to prioritise India's requirements. "...I humbly request you to please be patient," SII's Chief Executive Adar Poonawalla said in a tweet, adding the company "has been directed to prioritise the huge needs of India and along with that balance the needs of the rest of the world." "We are trying our best," Poonawalla said. Based in the western Indian city of Pune, the company is manufacturing the Oxford University/AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine, one of the two shots that India is using to initially vaccinate some 300 million people as part of a national inoculation drive. Many low-and middle-income countries, ranging from Bangladesh to Brazil, are depending on SII's AstraZeneca vaccine, branded COVISHIELD by the Indian company. But demand is growing, including from Western countries like Canada, where Poonawalla has promised to deliver the COVISHIELD vaccine next month. Britain's drug regulator is also auditing manufacturing processes at SII, potentially paving the way for the COVISHIELD vaccine to be shipped from there to the UK and other countries.. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government has come under criticism for the slow take-off of its vaccination drive but health authorities are preparing to expand the number of inoculation substantially in coming weeks. India has vaccinated around 11 million people since mid-January. With more than 10.9 million confirmed infections, India has the world's second highest number of COVID-19 cases, behind only the United States. The country is currently reporting around 12,000 new infections on average each day, a fraction of its peak from last September, according to a Reuters analysis. But federal health authorities on Sunday said they had written to some states that are currently seeing a surge in cases, asking them to improve overall testing, surveillance and monitoring of COVID-19 mutations.

India's Serum Institute says prioritising domestic vaccine needs, asks for patience

Last week saw India taking a batch of 24 foreign envoys to the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. British High Commissioner Alexander Ellis was not one of them. Of the 24 envoys, the largest group of 9 envoys was from Europe. These were envoys of the EU, Finland, France, Italy, Ireland, Netherlands, Portugal, Spain, and Sweden.

India was keen for British High commissioner to also be part of the visit. While the UK did not participate, it was aware of the visit being organized by the Indian government. It is understood that the UK mission in Delhi is closely working with authorities to find the best opportunity for UK high commissioner to visit the union territory soon.

This comes even as within the UK, a number of voices have been keen on developments in Jammu and Kashmir. A visit by British HC could have been a grand occasion to take stock of situation of things on the ground, especially in the backdrop of recent district development council elections and the resumption of 4G internet.&nbsp;&nbsp;

January saw a discussion on Kashmir in the British Parliament, with Minister for Asia Nigel Adams reiterating the official policy, that it is a bilateral issue between India and Pakistan.&nbsp;

"We continue to believe that it is for India and Pakistan to find a lasting political resolution to the situation," he said.

On the removal of special status, he underlined, "There have been recent elections to the District Development Council... the first to take place since the revocation of article 370" and welcomed the relaxation of restrictions.

Interestingly, the British High commissioner to Pakistan visited Altit fort in Hunza valley in Gilgit-Baltistan in Pakistan occupied Kashmir (POK) in October of last year amid the COVID pandemic.

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His key focus was boosting tourism in the area, but also, awarding Scottish scholarship to women in Gilgit.

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&nbsp;

Last week saw India taking a batch of 24 foreign envoys to the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. British High Commissioner Alexander Ellis was not one of them.

Last week saw India taking a batch of 24 foreign envoys to the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. British High Commissioner Alexander Ellis was not one of them. Of the 24 envoys, the largest group of 9 envoys was from Europe. These were envoys of the EU, Finland, France, Italy, Ireland, Netherlands, Portugal, Spain, and Sweden. India was keen for British High commissioner to also be part of the visit. While the UK did not participate, it was aware of the visit being organized by the Indian government. It is understood that the UK mission in Delhi is closely working with authorities to find the best opportunity for UK high commissioner to visit the union territory soon. This comes even as within the UK, a number of voices have been keen on developments in Jammu and Kashmir. A visit by British HC could have been a grand occasion to take stock of situation of things on the ground, especially in the backdrop of recent district development council elections and the resumption of 4G internet. January saw a discussion on Kashmir in the British Parliament, with Minister for Asia Nigel Adams reiterating the official policy, that it is a bilateral issue between India and Pakistan. "We continue to believe that it is for India and Pakistan to find a lasting political resolution to the situation," he said. On the removal of special status, he underlined, "There have been recent elections to the District Development Council... the first to take place since the revocation of article 370" and welcomed the relaxation of restrictions. Interestingly, the British High commissioner to Pakistan visited Altit fort in Hunza valley in Gilgit-Baltistan in Pakistan occupied Kashmir (POK) in October of last year amid the COVID pandemic. https://twitter.com/CTurnerFCDO/status/1314893081959780353 × His key focus was boosting tourism in the area, but also, awarding Scottish scholarship to women in Gilgit. https://twitter.com/CTurnerFCDO/status/1314117582958583808 ×

Absent during current visit, UK working closely for envoy Alexander Eliis' Jammu and Kashmir visit

Chandrayaan-3, India's third mission to Moon, is likely to be launched in 2022, ISRO chief K Sivan has said.

Unlike its predecessor, Chandrayaan-3 will not have an orbiter.

Several projects of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) including Chandrayaan-3, which was scheduled to be launched in late 2020, and Gaganyaan, the country's first manned space mission, were hit by the pandemic-induced lockdown.

Chandrayaan-2, aimed at landing a rover on unchartered Lunar South Pole, was launched on July 22, 2019 on board the country's most powerful geosynchronous launch vehicle. However, the lander Vikram hard-landed on September 7, 2019, crashing India's dream to become the first nation to successfully land on the lunar surface in its maiden attempt.

Chandrayaan-3 is critical for ISRO as it will demonstrate India's capabilities to make landing for further interplanetary missions.

ISRO is targetting December to launch the first unmanned mission under the Gaganyaan project. The mission was originally scheduled to launch in December last year.

It will be followed by another unmanned mission and the third leg is the main module.

Gaganyaan envisages to send three Indians to space by 2022. The four test pilots selected for the mission are currently undergoing training in Russia.

Chandrayaan-3, India's third mission to Moon, is likely to be launched in 2022, ISRO chief K Sivan has said. Unlike its predecessor, Chandrayaan-3 will not have an orbiter.

Chandrayaan-3, India's third mission to Moon, is likely to be launched in 2022, ISRO chief K Sivan has said. Unlike its predecessor, Chandrayaan-3 will not have an orbiter. Several projects of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) including Chandrayaan-3, which was scheduled to be launched in late 2020, and Gaganyaan, the country's first manned space mission, were hit by the pandemic-induced lockdown. Chandrayaan-2, aimed at landing a rover on unchartered Lunar South Pole, was launched on July 22, 2019 on board the country's most powerful geosynchronous launch vehicle. However, the lander Vikram hard-landed on September 7, 2019, crashing India's dream to become the first nation to successfully land on the lunar surface in its maiden attempt. Chandrayaan-3 is critical for ISRO as it will demonstrate India's capabilities to make landing for further interplanetary missions. ISRO is targetting December to launch the first unmanned mission under the Gaganyaan project. The mission was originally scheduled to launch in December last year. It will be followed by another unmanned mission and the third leg is the main module. Gaganyaan envisages to send three Indians to space by 2022. The four test pilots selected for the mission are currently undergoing training in Russia.

Chandrayaan-3 launch delayed further to 2022

In continuation with the dialogue held to resolve situation in Ladakh, 10th round of military talks between India and China last for around 16 hours on Sunday. The Corps Commander-level talks at the Moldo border point on the Chinese side of the Line of Actual Control began at around 10 am on Saturday and ended at 2 am on Sunday, they said.

PTI quoted sources to say that focus of the talks was to take the disengagement process ahead in friction points like Hot Springs, Gogra and Depsang in eastern Ladakh. It has been reported that India insisted on a faster disengagement process.

However, there was no official word on the talks so far.

This round of talks took place two days after Indian and Chinese military concluded withdrawal of troops and weapons from north and south banks of Panging Tso.

On Saturday evening, sources had said that bringing down the tension in the region was the broad priority of the talks. India has all along been maintaining that disengagement at all the friction points was necessary to de-escalate the situation in the region.

On February 11, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh announced in Parliament that India and China reached an agreement on disengagement in the North and South banks of Pangong lake that mandates both sides to "cease" forward deployment of troops in a "phased, coordinated and verifiable" manner.

Under the agreement, he said China will pull back its troops to east of Finger 8 areas in the northern bank of Pangong lake while the Indian personnel will be based at their permanent base at Dhan Singh Thapa Post near Finger 3 in the region. Similar action would take place on the south bank of the lake as well, he said.

The sources said troops of both sides have retreated to positions in line with the agreement.

The disengagement process began on February 10.

Indian delegation was led by Lt Gen PGK Menon, the Commander of the Leh-based 14 Corps.

The border standoff between the Indian and Chinese militaries erupted on May 5 following a violent clash in the Pangong lake areas and both sides gradually enhanced their deployment by rushing in tens of thousands of soldiers as well as heavy weaponry even as the two sides continued military and diplomatic talks.

Last year, the Chinese military built several bunkers and other structures in the areas between Finger 4 and 8 and had blocked all Indian patrols beyond Finger 4, triggering strong reaction from the Indian Army.

In the nine rounds of military talks, India had specifically insisted on withdrawal of Chinese troops from Finger 4 to Finger 8 on the North bank of Pangong Lake. The mountain spurs in the area are referred to as Fingers.

(With PTI Inputs)

In continuation with the dialogue held to resolve situation in Ladakh, 10th round of military talks between India and China last for around 16 hours on Sunday. The Corps Commander-level talks at the Moldo border point on the Chinese side of the Line of Actual Control began at around 10 am on Saturday and ended at 2 am on Sunday, they said.

In continuation with the dialogue held to resolve situation in Ladakh, 10th round of military talks between India and China last for around 16 hours on Sunday. The Corps Commander-level talks at the Moldo border point on the Chinese side of the Line of Actual Control began at around 10 am on Saturday and ended at 2 am on Sunday, they said. PTI quoted sources to say that focus of the talks was to take the disengagement process ahead in friction points like Hot Springs, Gogra and Depsang in eastern Ladakh. It has been reported that India insisted on a faster disengagement process. However, there was no official word on the talks so far. This round of talks took place two days after Indian and Chinese military concluded withdrawal of troops and weapons from north and south banks of Panging Tso. On Saturday evening, sources had said that bringing down the tension in the region was the broad priority of the talks. India has all along been maintaining that disengagement at all the friction points was necessary to de-escalate the situation in the region. On February 11, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh announced in Parliament that India and China reached an agreement on disengagement in the North and South banks of Pangong lake that mandates both sides to "cease" forward deployment of troops in a "phased, coordinated and verifiable" manner. Under the agreement, he said China will pull back its troops to east of Finger 8 areas in the northern bank of Pangong lake while the Indian personnel will be based at their permanent base at Dhan Singh Thapa Post near Finger 3 in the region. Similar action would take place on the south bank of the lake as well, he said. The sources said troops of both sides have retreated to positions in line with the agreement. The disengagement process began on February 10. Indian delegation was led by Lt Gen PGK Menon, the Commander of the Leh-based 14 Corps. The border standoff between the Indian and Chinese militaries erupted on May 5 following a violent clash in the Pangong lake areas and both sides gradually enhanced their deployment by rushing in tens of thousands of soldiers as well as heavy weaponry even as the two sides continued military and diplomatic talks. Last year, the Chinese military built several bunkers and other structures in the areas between Finger 4 and 8 and had blocked all Indian patrols beyond Finger 4, triggering strong reaction from the Indian Army. In the nine rounds of military talks, India had specifically insisted on withdrawal of Chinese troops from Finger 4 to Finger 8 on the North bank of Pangong Lake. The mountain spurs in the area are referred to as Fingers. (With PTI Inputs)

Ladakh disengagement: India-China talks last for 16 hours

A minister in India's western state of Maharashtra said on Sunday that the state government was mulling over imposing night curfew in light of increasing cases of coronavirus infections. Vijay Wadettiwar, Relief and Rehabilitation Minister of Maharashtra also said that a decision will soon be taken by the government on this.

"The coronavirus cases are increasing on daily basis in several districts of Maharashtra. Due to this, an order to enforce the coronavirus norms has been given to all district magistrates. They have also have been authorised to take decisions in view of the pandemic situation," said Wadettiwar," he said.

"In view of rising COVID-19 cases in districts like Nagpur, Amravati, Yatvmal, Maharashtra Government is thinking of imposing a night curfew in the districts. A meeting chaired by the Chief Minister (Uddhav Thackeray) to be held soon to make a decision," he added.

The minister's statement comes amid rising cases in Maharashtra which has been the worst affected state in India so far. Maharashtra's capital Mumbai is among worst-hit cities in the country.

The State Health Department on Saturday informed that 6,281 new COVID-19 cases and 40 deaths were reported in the last 24 hours.The total cases in the state increased to 20,93,913 including 48,439 active cases and 19,92,530 total recoveries. The death toll in the state mounted to 51,753 including the new deaths, the state department said.

(With ANI inputs)

A minister in India's western state of Maharashtra said on Sunday that the state government was mulling over imposing night curfew in light of increasing cases of coronavirus infections.

A minister in India's western state of Maharashtra said on Sunday that the state government was mulling over imposing night curfew in light of increasing cases of coronavirus infections. Vijay Wadettiwar, Relief and Rehabilitation Minister of Maharashtra also said that a decision will soon be taken by the government on this. "The coronavirus cases are increasing on daily basis in several districts of Maharashtra. Due to this, an order to enforce the coronavirus norms has been given to all district magistrates. They have also have been authorised to take decisions in view of the pandemic situation," said Wadettiwar," he said. "In view of rising COVID-19 cases in districts like Nagpur, Amravati, Yatvmal, Maharashtra Government is thinking of imposing a night curfew in the districts. A meeting chaired by the Chief Minister (Uddhav Thackeray) to be held soon to make a decision," he added. The minister's statement comes amid rising cases in Maharashtra which has been the worst affected state in India so far. Maharashtra's capital Mumbai is among worst-hit cities in the country. The State Health Department on Saturday informed that 6,281 new COVID-19 cases and 40 deaths were reported in the last 24 hours.The total cases in the state increased to 20,93,913 including 48,439 active cases and 19,92,530 total recoveries. The death toll in the state mounted to 51,753 including the new deaths, the state department said. (With ANI inputs)

COVID-19: Maharashtra government mulling night curfew, says state minister

The Centre and States should work together and make cooperative federalism even more meaningful than in the past, said Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday. Addressing the sixth meeting of the Governing Council of NITI Aayog via video conferencing that he chaired, the Prime Minister said that during the COVID-19 pandemic the Centre and states successfully worked together to build a good image of India before the whole world.

"Foundation of India`s development is that the Centre and States work together and head towards a certain direction and make cooperative federalism even more meaningful. Not only this, we have to try to bring competitive, cooperative federalism not only among states but also districts," said the Prime Minister.

"In the COVID period we saw how Centre and States worked together, the nation succeeded and a good image of India was built before the entire world. Today, when we are going to complete 75 years of independence, this Governing Council meet becomes even more significant. I would urge the states to form committees by connecting all the people of the society in their respective states," he added.

PM Modi also said that in the past few years, India saw how the opening of bank accounts, increase in vaccination and health facilities, free electricity connection, and free gas connection to empower the poor, has reflected a phenomenal change in their lives.

"The kind of positive response this year`s budget received shows the mood of the nation. The country has made its mind. It is ready to move forward at a fast pace without wasting time," he said.

The Prime Minister said that the private sector in the country could be seen coming forward with more enthusiasm in the development journey of the country and the government should respect that enthusiasm and energy of the private sector, and give it as much opportunity under the Atmanirbhar Bharat campaign.

"Atmanirbhar Bharat campaign is the journey of producing made in India products that not just fulfill the country`s needs but also that of the world, and these products also stand the test of superiority on a global platform," he said.

The PM said that the Central Government has introduced PLI scheme for various sectors as an excellent opportunity to increase manufacturing in the country.&nbsp;

"States should also take full advantage of this scheme and attract maximum investment in themselves," he added.PM Modi added that in the past years the Centre has adopted a holistic approach towards agriculture to animal husbandry and fisheries, and as a result, the country`s agricultural exports increased significantly even during the COVID-19 period.

The Centre and States should work together and make cooperative federalism even more meaningful than in the past, said Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday. Addressing the sixth meeting of the Governing Council of NITI Aayog via video conferencing that he chaired, the Prime Minister said that during the COVID-19 pandemic the Centre and states successfully worked together to build a good image of India before the whole world.

The Centre and States should work together and make cooperative federalism even more meaningful than in the past, said Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday. Addressing the sixth meeting of the Governing Council of NITI Aayog via video conferencing that he chaired, the Prime Minister said that during the COVID-19 pandemic the Centre and states successfully worked together to build a good image of India before the whole world. "Foundation of India`s development is that the Centre and States work together and head towards a certain direction and make cooperative federalism even more meaningful. Not only this, we have to try to bring competitive, cooperative federalism not only among states but also districts," said the Prime Minister. "In the COVID period we saw how Centre and States worked together, the nation succeeded and a good image of India was built before the entire world. Today, when we are going to complete 75 years of independence, this Governing Council meet becomes even more significant. I would urge the states to form committees by connecting all the people of the society in their respective states," he added. PM Modi also said that in the past few years, India saw how the opening of bank accounts, increase in vaccination and health facilities, free electricity connection, and free gas connection to empower the poor, has reflected a phenomenal change in their lives. "The kind of positive response this year`s budget received shows the mood of the nation. The country has made its mind. It is ready to move forward at a fast pace without wasting time," he said. The Prime Minister said that the private sector in the country could be seen coming forward with more enthusiasm in the development journey of the country and the government should respect that enthusiasm and energy of the private sector, and give it as much opportunity under the Atmanirbhar Bharat campaign. "Atmanirbhar Bharat campaign is the journey of producing made in India products that not just fulfill the country`s needs but also that of the world, and these products also stand the test of superiority on a global platform," he said. The PM said that the Central Government has introduced PLI scheme for various sectors as an excellent opportunity to increase manufacturing in the country. "States should also take full advantage of this scheme and attract maximum investment in themselves," he added.PM Modi added that in the past years the Centre has adopted a holistic approach towards agriculture to animal husbandry and fisheries, and as a result, the country`s agricultural exports increased significantly even during the COVID-19 period.

Centre, states need to work closely to boost economic growth: PM Modi

People in parts of the country woke up to a foggy morning on Saturday, as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicted "very dense fog" in the national capital and dense fog to very dense fog in several parts of India. Various places in north-India including Delhi witnessed low visibility due to the fog today.&nbsp;

India Gate in the national capital disappeared into a layer of dense fog after the weather department predicted `very dense fog` for today. People were seen driving through a dense layer of fog at Delhi`s Akshardham area.

A layer of dense fog also seen at Rashtrapati Bhavan and South block here in the national capital."Dense to very dense fog over many parts of Punjab and Delhi and over isolated pockets of Haryana and northwest Rajasthan. Moderate fog over some parts of Haryana and isolated pockets of west Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Assam," said the IMD.

"There was less than 1000 meter visibility recorded in various parts of the country till 8.30 am today. Amritsar, Ludhiana Patiala, Karnal and Delhi (Safdarjung) - 25 meter each. Ambala, Ganganagar and Delhi (Palam) - 50 meter each. Hissar - 200 meter; Rohtak, Meerut, Gaya and Haflong - 500 meter each recorded," the department said.

The minimum temperature of 10.4 degree Celsius at the Safdarjung area and the 12 degree Celsius minimum temperature was recorded at Palam. The departure of -0.6 degree Celsius at Safdarjung and 1.0 degree Celsius at Palam recorded, while 24-hour tendency recorded at Safdarjung 0.5 degree Celsius and Palam recorded -0.4 degree Celsius.

People in parts of the country woke up to a foggy morning on Saturday, as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicted "very dense fog" in the national capital and dense fog to very dense fog in several parts of India.

People in parts of the country woke up to a foggy morning on Saturday, as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicted "very dense fog" in the national capital and dense fog to very dense fog in several parts of India. Various places in north-India including Delhi witnessed low visibility due to the fog today. India Gate in the national capital disappeared into a layer of dense fog after the weather department predicted `very dense fog` for today. People were seen driving through a dense layer of fog at Delhi`s Akshardham area. A layer of dense fog also seen at Rashtrapati Bhavan and South block here in the national capital."Dense to very dense fog over many parts of Punjab and Delhi and over isolated pockets of Haryana and northwest Rajasthan. Moderate fog over some parts of Haryana and isolated pockets of west Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Assam," said the IMD. "There was less than 1000 meter visibility recorded in various parts of the country till 8.30 am today. Amritsar, Ludhiana Patiala, Karnal and Delhi (Safdarjung) - 25 meter each. Ambala, Ganganagar and Delhi (Palam) - 50 meter each. Hissar - 200 meter; Rohtak, Meerut, Gaya and Haflong - 500 meter each recorded," the department said. The minimum temperature of 10.4 degree Celsius at the Safdarjung area and the 12 degree Celsius minimum temperature was recorded at Palam. The departure of -0.6 degree Celsius at Safdarjung and 1.0 degree Celsius at Palam recorded, while 24-hour tendency recorded at Safdarjung 0.5 degree Celsius and Palam recorded -0.4 degree Celsius.

Dense fog, low visibility in many parts of country

 Washington [US], February 20 (ANI): The release date of Hollywood star Hugh Jackman`s upcoming action thriller `Reminiscence` has been revealed. The film is set to hit the theatres and stream on HBO Max on September 3, this year. As per Variety, the Warner Bros. film will also begin rolling out internationally on August 25, 2021. The forthcoming film, which also features Thandie Newton and Rebecca Ferguson, has been written, directed, and co-produced by `Westworld` co-creator Lisa Joy.The action-thriller follows Nick Bannister (Jackman), a private investigator of the mind, as he tries to help clients access lost memories. After one of those clients, Mae (Ferguson), disappears, Bannister uncovers a violent conspiracy.`Reminiscence` was produced by Jonathan Nolan, Michael De Luca, and Aaron Ryder. The rest of the cast includes Cliff Curtis, Marina de Tavira, Daniel Wu, Mojean Aria, Brett Cullen, Natalie Martinez, Angela Sarafyan, and Nico Parker.Warner Bros. earlier announced that its 2021 slate of films will be released simultaneously on HBO Max and in U.S. theaters in a move that shortened the traditional theatrical window.The company has already had several high-profile hybrid releases, unrolling `Wonder Woman 1984`, `Judas and the Black Messiah` and `The Little Things` on HBO Max at the same time they screened in theatres. The company plans to deploy a similar strategy with the likes of `Dune`, `The Matrix 4`, `The Many Saints of Newark`, among many more. (ANI) 

Washington [US], February 20 (ANI): The release date of Hollywood star Hugh Jackman`s upcoming action thriller `Reminiscence` has been revealed. The film is set to hit the theatres and stream on HBO Max on September 3, this year.

Washington [US], February 20 (ANI): The release date of Hollywood star Hugh Jackman`s upcoming action thriller `Reminiscence` has been revealed. The film is set to hit the theatres and stream on HBO Max on September 3, this year. As per Variety, the Warner Bros. film will also begin rolling out internationally on August 25, 2021. The forthcoming film, which also features Thandie Newton and Rebecca Ferguson, has been written, directed, and co-produced by `Westworld` co-creator Lisa Joy.The action-thriller follows Nick Bannister (Jackman), a private investigator of the mind, as he tries to help clients access lost memories. After one of those clients, Mae (Ferguson), disappears, Bannister uncovers a violent conspiracy.`Reminiscence` was produced by Jonathan Nolan, Michael De Luca, and Aaron Ryder. The rest of the cast includes Cliff Curtis, Marina de Tavira, Daniel Wu, Mojean Aria, Brett Cullen, Natalie Martinez, Angela Sarafyan, and Nico Parker.Warner Bros. earlier announced that its 2021 slate of films will be released simultaneously on HBO Max and in U.S. theaters in a move that shortened the traditional theatrical window.The company has already had several high-profile hybrid releases, unrolling `Wonder Woman 1984`, `Judas and the Black Messiah` and `The Little Things` on HBO Max at the same time they screened in theatres. The company plans to deploy a similar strategy with the likes of `Dune`, `The Matrix 4`, `The Many Saints of Newark`, among many more. (ANI)

Hugh Jackman-starrer ''Reminiscence'' to release on this date

Swedish environmental activist Greta Thunberg on Saturday jumped into freedom of speech debate on Saturday on Twitter. In her tweet, she described freedom of speech and right to peacful protest "non-negotiable human rights"

"Freedom of speech and the right to peaceful protest and assembly are non-negotiable human rights. These must be a fundamental part of any democracy..." read her tweet.

Through her tweet, she apparently extended support to Disha Ravi.

Disha Ravi (22) was sent to three-day judicial custody on Friday following her arrest earlier this month. Disha faces charges of sharing and spreading incriminating 'toolkit' on farmer's protests. She was apprehended from her Bengaluru home earlier this month. Nikita Jacob and Shantanu Muluk are the co-accused who, Delhi Police said, contributed efforts to make the document aimed at 'tarnishing India's image'

Greta Thunberg received flak in India after she expressed support for farmer protests.&nbsp;

Swedish environmental activist Greta Thunberg on Saturday jumped into freedom of speech debate on Saturday on Twitter. In her tweet, she described freedom of speech and right to peacful protest "non-negotiable human rights" "Freedom of speech and the right to peaceful protest and assembly are non-negotiable human rights.

Swedish environmental activist Greta Thunberg on Saturday jumped into freedom of speech debate on Saturday on Twitter. In her tweet, she described freedom of speech and right to peacful protest "non-negotiable human rights" "Freedom of speech and the right to peaceful protest and assembly are non-negotiable human rights. These must be a fundamental part of any democracy..." read her tweet. Through her tweet, she apparently extended support to Disha Ravi. Disha Ravi (22) was sent to three-day judicial custody on Friday following her arrest earlier this month. Disha faces charges of sharing and spreading incriminating 'toolkit' on farmer's protests. She was apprehended from her Bengaluru home earlier this month. Nikita Jacob and Shantanu Muluk are the co-accused who, Delhi Police said, contributed efforts to make the document aimed at 'tarnishing India's image' Greta Thunberg received flak in India after she expressed support for farmer protests.

Greta Thunberg jumps into freedom of speech debate

India and China held the tenth round of military talks on Saturday to further push&nbsp;the disengagement process in the eastern Ladakh region.&nbsp;

The 10th round of Corps Commander-level talks comes two days after the militaries of both the nations completed the withdrawal of forces and weaponry from the North and South banks of Pangong.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-china-disengagement-10th-round-of-corps-commander-level-talks-today-364991/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The meet began at 10 am at the Moldo border point on the Chinese side of the Line of Actual Control and it was continuing, sources told news agency PTI.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-releases-propaganda-video-of-galwan-valley-clash-364969">China releases propaganda video of Galwan Valley clash</a>

"The focus of the talks is on carrying forward the disengagement process," a source said.&nbsp;

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on February 11 told Parliament that India and China agreed on disengagement in the North and South banks of Pangong lake that binds both nations to "cease" forward deployment of troops in a "phased, coordinated and verifiable" manner.

According to the agreement, China will pull back its troops east of Finger 8 areas in the northern bank of Pangong lake, while Indian troops will be permanently based at Dhan Singh Thapa Post near Finger 3 in the region, Singh said.&nbsp;

The defence minister said that similar action would be taken on the south bank of the lake too.&nbsp;

India and China held the tenth round of military talks on Saturday to further push the disengagement process in the eastern Ladakh region. The 10th round of Corps Commander-level talks comes two days after the militaries of both the nations completed the withdrawal of forces and weaponry from the North and South banks of Pangong.

India and China held the tenth round of military talks on Saturday to further push the disengagement process in the eastern Ladakh region. The 10th round of Corps Commander-level talks comes two days after the militaries of both the nations completed the withdrawal of forces and weaponry from the North and South banks of Pangong. Watch | The meet began at 10 am at the Moldo border point on the Chinese side of the Line of Actual Control and it was continuing, sources told news agency PTI. Also read | China releases propaganda video of Galwan Valley clash "The focus of the talks is on carrying forward the disengagement process," a source said. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on February 11 told Parliament that India and China agreed on disengagement in the North and South banks of Pangong lake that binds both nations to "cease" forward deployment of troops in a "phased, coordinated and verifiable" manner. According to the agreement, China will pull back its troops east of Finger 8 areas in the northern bank of Pangong lake, while Indian troops will be permanently based at Dhan Singh Thapa Post near Finger 3 in the region, Singh said. The defence minister said that similar action would be taken on the south bank of the lake too.

India, China hold 10th round of military talks

Australia will be supporting India's manned mission to space-Gaganyaan by providing a temporary ground station facility in Cocos Islands.&nbsp;Cocos (Keeling) Islands is part of Australia's external territory in the Indian Ocean.

In response to a question by WION,&nbsp;the Australian Space Agency spokesperson said that it is "leading cross-government coordination on ISRO’s request to place temporary ground station tracking facilities in the Cocos (Keeling) Islands to support the Gaganyaan missions".&nbsp;

Adding, "This includes facilitating advice to ISRO from a number of Commonwealth agencies which will need to grant approvals for the project to go ahead."

India will be the&nbsp;fourth country to launch humans into space, with its Gaganyaan project.&nbsp;Gaganyaan is targeted for December 2021 with the training of the astronauts taking place in Russia.

Last week Australia announced a new pact with India on Space. The amendment to the Memorandum of Understanding between the Australian Space Agency and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), builds on the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between Australia and India announced by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Australian&nbsp;Prime Minister Scott Morrison&nbsp;last year.

Australian Minister for Industry, Science and Technology Karen Andrews said, “Discussions are already underway for Australia to host vital tracking infrastructure as part of India’s Gaganyaan missions, which will place India as the fourth country to put humans in space.”

The Memorandum of Understanding between the Australian Government and Indian govt was signed by Head of the Australian Space Agency, Enrico Palermo and Chair of ISRO and Head of the Indian Department of Space, Dr. K Sivan on 17th February.&nbsp;

Australia will be supporting India's manned mission to space-Gaganyaan by providing a temporary ground station facility in Cocos Islands. Cocos (Keeling) Islands is part of Australia's external territory in the Indian Ocean.

Australia will be supporting India's manned mission to space-Gaganyaan by providing a temporary ground station facility in Cocos Islands. Cocos (Keeling) Islands is part of Australia's external territory in the Indian Ocean. In response to a question by WION, the Australian Space Agency spokesperson said that it is "leading cross-government coordination on ISRO’s request to place temporary ground station tracking facilities in the Cocos (Keeling) Islands to support the Gaganyaan missions". Adding, "This includes facilitating advice to ISRO from a number of Commonwealth agencies which will need to grant approvals for the project to go ahead." India will be the fourth country to launch humans into space, with its Gaganyaan project. Gaganyaan is targeted for December 2021 with the training of the astronauts taking place in Russia. Last week Australia announced a new pact with India on Space. The amendment to the Memorandum of Understanding between the Australian Space Agency and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), builds on the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between Australia and India announced by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison last year. Australian Minister for Industry, Science and Technology Karen Andrews said, “Discussions are already underway for Australia to host vital tracking infrastructure as part of India’s Gaganyaan missions, which will place India as the fourth country to put humans in space.” The Memorandum of Understanding between the Australian Government and Indian govt was signed by Head of the Australian Space Agency, Enrico Palermo and Chair of ISRO and Head of the Indian Department of Space, Dr. K Sivan on 17th February.

Australia to support India's Gaganyaan mission with tracking facility in Cocos Islands

EU envoy to India, Ugo Astuto has spoken exclusively to WION after the 2-day visit to J&K. He said the EU has taken note of the recent steps that have been taken by the Indian government, such as election at the district level and resumption of 4G internet services

Jammu & Kashmir: We have taken note of recent steps taken, says EU envoy

The first day of External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar's two-day Maldives visit saw handing over of additional 100,000 doses of COVID&nbsp;vaccines to the country and offering of standalone Line of Credit of $40 million for sports infrastructure for the country.

After meeting the Maldivian foreign minister Abdulla Shahid, at the joint statement, EAM said, "The ‘India First’ foreign policy of President Solih is reciprocated in full measure by Prime Minister Modi's Neighbourhood First’ policy in which Maldives enjoys a central position."

Adding, "the special place we have for each other in our foreign policy at one level, and in our hearts at another, make our bilateral relationship truly a moral for our neighbourly relations."

He pointed out&nbsp;that, "the first and largest recipient of India’s Covid support – be it medicines, food, medical response teams or financial package – was Maldives."

Amid the pandemic, India sent medicines and a rapid response team to the country to deal with the crisis. Last month saw, India gifting vaccines to the country within 96 hours of it launching its vaccination program. Maldives along with Bhutan were the first 2 countries to get India's vaccine gift.

EAM reiterated India's "strong support" for the "candidature of Foreign Minster Abdulla Shahid for President of the 76th session of the UN General Assembly next year."

During the current visit, EAM also spoke at the Ekuveni Stadium in the Maldives. In November last year, the Indian Foreign Secretary had done the groundbreaking for the synthetic track at the stadium which was inaugurated by Maldives President last month.

EAM at the stadium announced that New Delhi has&nbsp;offered a standalone Line of Credit (LOC) of $ 40 million for Sports Infrastructure in the Maldives. The new LOC will be signed after the formalities are complete.

He highlighted India's support to Maldives' sports talent, saying, "As you are all aware, India has also commenced a comprehensive cricket coaching programme for your cricketing talent. I am informed that the coaching programme for coaches and umpires has already taken place and coaching of your 30 member men’s team and 30 member women’s team will commence soon in Chennai."

Elaborating, "It is noteworthy as was mentioned before that the fastest man in South Asia - Hassan Saaid- is also a proud Maldivian, who has received, we are glad to say training in India."

India is building&nbsp;state of art Cricket Stadium in Hulhumalé along with a cricket-coaching center.&nbsp;&nbsp;

This is the 2nd visit of EAM Jaishankar to the country.&nbsp;His first visit was to attend the 5th Indian Ocean Conference in September 2019.&nbsp;Last year saw, Foreign secretary Harsh Shringla visiting the country, both foreign ministers having a video meeting, and a telephonic conversation between PM Modi and President Solih.

Five pacts were signed between India and Maldives on Saturday, which were:

1. Amendatory Agreement to repurpose an older EXIM Bank of India Line of Credit of USD 25 million for Road Devt

2. Letter of Intent between EXIM Bank and local authorities for financing a housing project of 2000 units in Hulhumale

3. MoU on grant funding USD 0.5 million for a fish processing plant in Kendhikulhudhoo in the northern Maldives

4. MoU on capacity building and exchange of content and expertise between Prasar Bharati and Public State Media, Maldives

5. MoU on sustainable urban development between MoHUA and Ministry of national planning, housing and infrastructure, Maldives

The first day of External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar's two-day Maldives visit saw handing over of additional 100,000 doses of COVID vaccines to the country and offering of standalone Line of Credit of $40 million for sports infrastructure for the country.

The first day of External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar's two-day Maldives visit saw handing over of additional 100,000 doses of COVID vaccines to the country and offering of standalone Line of Credit of $40 million for sports infrastructure for the country. After meeting the Maldivian foreign minister Abdulla Shahid, at the joint statement, EAM said, "The ‘India First’ foreign policy of President Solih is reciprocated in full measure by Prime Minister Modi's Neighbourhood First’ policy in which Maldives enjoys a central position." Adding, "the special place we have for each other in our foreign policy at one level, and in our hearts at another, make our bilateral relationship truly a moral for our neighbourly relations." He pointed out that, "the first and largest recipient of India’s Covid support – be it medicines, food, medical response teams or financial package – was Maldives." Amid the pandemic, India sent medicines and a rapid response team to the country to deal with the crisis. Last month saw, India gifting vaccines to the country within 96 hours of it launching its vaccination program. Maldives along with Bhutan were the first 2 countries to get India's vaccine gift. EAM reiterated India's "strong support" for the "candidature of Foreign Minster Abdulla Shahid for President of the 76th session of the UN General Assembly next year." During the current visit, EAM also spoke at the Ekuveni Stadium in the Maldives. In November last year, the Indian Foreign Secretary had done the groundbreaking for the synthetic track at the stadium which was inaugurated by Maldives President last month. EAM at the stadium announced that New Delhi has offered a standalone Line of Credit (LOC) of $ 40 million for Sports Infrastructure in the Maldives. The new LOC will be signed after the formalities are complete. He highlighted India's support to Maldives' sports talent, saying, "As you are all aware, India has also commenced a comprehensive cricket coaching programme for your cricketing talent. I am informed that the coaching programme for coaches and umpires has already taken place and coaching of your 30 member men’s team and 30 member women’s team will commence soon in Chennai." Elaborating, "It is noteworthy as was mentioned before that the fastest man in South Asia - Hassan Saaid- is also a proud Maldivian, who has received, we are glad to say training in India." India is building state of art Cricket Stadium in Hulhumalé along with a cricket-coaching center. This is the 2nd visit of EAM Jaishankar to the country. His first visit was to attend the 5th Indian Ocean Conference in September 2019. Last year saw, Foreign secretary Harsh Shringla visiting the country, both foreign ministers having a video meeting, and a telephonic conversation between PM Modi and President Solih. Five pacts were signed between India and Maldives on Saturday, which were: 1. Amendatory Agreement to repurpose an older EXIM Bank of India Line of Credit of USD 25 million for Road Devt 2. Letter of Intent between EXIM Bank and local authorities for financing a housing project of 2000 units in Hulhumale 3. MoU on grant funding USD 0.5 million for a fish processing plant in Kendhikulhudhoo in the northern Maldives 4. MoU on capacity building and exchange of content and expertise between Prasar Bharati and Public State Media, Maldives 5. MoU on sustainable urban development between MoHUA and Ministry of national planning, housing and infrastructure, Maldives

EAM's Maldives visit: 100,000 vaccines gifted, $40 m Line of Credit for sports infra offered, 5 pacts signed

Facebook Inc's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-issues-notice-to-whatsapp-facebook-over-privacy-issue-363713">WhatsApp</a> said on Friday&nbsp;it will go ahead with its controversial privacy policy update but will allow users to read it at "their own pace" and will also display a banner providing additional information.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/you-may-be-a-trillion-dollar-company-but-supreme-court-of-india-to-whatsapp-363732/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

In January, the messaging platform informed users it was preparing a new privacy policy, under which it could share limited user data with Facebook and its group firms.

It sparked a global outcry and sent users to rival apps Telegram and Signal, among others, prompting WhatsApp to delay the new policy launch to May and to clarify the update was focused on allowing users to message with businesses and would not affect personal conversations.

In <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-refuses-to-entertain-plea-against-new-whatsapp-privacy-policy-361543">India</a>, the messaging app's biggest user base, Facebook executives fielded questions from a parliamentary panel on the need for the changes, days after the country's technology ministry asked the messaging platform to withdraw them.

In its latest blog, WhatsApp said it will start reminding users to review and accept updates to keep using the messaging platform.

"We've also included more information to try and address concerns we're hearing," it added.

WhatsApp's announcement comes as parent <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-banning-news-in-australia-facebook-enters-into-talks-with-government-364700">Facebook</a> moved to block all news content in Australia on Thursday, facing backlash from publishers and politicians, prompting a senior British lawmaker to label the move as an attempt to bully a democracy.

Facebook Inc's WhatsApp said on Friday it will go ahead with its controversial privacy policy update but will allow users to read it at "their own pace" and will also display a banner providing additional information.

Facebook Inc's WhatsApp said on Friday it will go ahead with its controversial privacy policy update but will allow users to read it at "their own pace" and will also display a banner providing additional information. Watch: In January, the messaging platform informed users it was preparing a new privacy policy, under which it could share limited user data with Facebook and its group firms. It sparked a global outcry and sent users to rival apps Telegram and Signal, among others, prompting WhatsApp to delay the new policy launch to May and to clarify the update was focused on allowing users to message with businesses and would not affect personal conversations. In India, the messaging app's biggest user base, Facebook executives fielded questions from a parliamentary panel on the need for the changes, days after the country's technology ministry asked the messaging platform to withdraw them. In its latest blog, WhatsApp said it will start reminding users to review and accept updates to keep using the messaging platform. "We've also included more information to try and address concerns we're hearing," it added. WhatsApp's announcement comes as parent Facebook moved to block all news content in Australia on Thursday, facing backlash from publishers and politicians, prompting a senior British lawmaker to label the move as an attempt to bully a democracy.

WhatsApp decides to move ahead with privacy policy update despite backlash

India on Friday reported 13,193 new coronavirus cases including 97 deaths in the last 24 hours taking the total death toll to over 1,56,000.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/argentina-receives-580000-doses-of-covid-vaccine-from-indias-serum-institute-364572/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The country crossed the 1 crore vaccination mark with 1,01,88,007 people benefiting from the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-story-of-vaccine-haves-and-have-nots-364633">vaccines</a>. The number of active COVID-19 cases reached 1,39,542 as the total number of cases shot up to 1,09,63,394.

India's health ministry had said earlier that no serious or severe case has been reported due to vaccination in the country.&nbsp;

In an address on Thursday, PM <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/we-all-fought-covid-challenge-with-a-coordinated-response-pm-modi-364563">Modi</a> had said: "Hope our region and the world focuses on rapid deployment of vaccines. We must maintain the same cooperative and collaborative spirit."

Meanwhile, India's national capital reported 130 new coronavirus cases along with two deaths taking the total number of cases to 6,37,445. The number of active cases in Delhi stands at 1,053 with the death toll reaching 1,053.

Karnataka reported 406 new coronavirus cases, including six deaths in the last 24 hours, according to the state health department. The death toll in the state due to the virus has now reached 12,282 with 5,792 active cases currently.

Maharashtra which is the worst-hit state due to the virus reported 5,427 coronavirus cases along with &nbsp;38 deaths in the last 24 hours taking the total number of cases to 20,81,520.

The death toll in Maharashtra due to the virus has now reached 51,669. In Maharashtra's&nbsp;Yavatmal district restrictions have been imposed due to rising coronavirus cases, however, it is not a lockdown, the district collector said with schools and colleges to remain closed till February 28.

India on Friday reported 13,193 new coronavirus cases including 97 deaths in the last 24 hours taking the total death toll to over 1,56,000. Watch: The country crossed the 1 crore vaccination mark with 1,01,88,007 people benefiting from the vaccines.

India on Friday reported 13,193 new coronavirus cases including 97 deaths in the last 24 hours taking the total death toll to over 1,56,000. Watch: The country crossed the 1 crore vaccination mark with 1,01,88,007 people benefiting from the vaccines. The number of active COVID-19 cases reached 1,39,542 as the total number of cases shot up to 1,09,63,394. India's health ministry had said earlier that no serious or severe case has been reported due to vaccination in the country. In an address on Thursday, PM Modi had said: "Hope our region and the world focuses on rapid deployment of vaccines. We must maintain the same cooperative and collaborative spirit." Meanwhile, India's national capital reported 130 new coronavirus cases along with two deaths taking the total number of cases to 6,37,445. The number of active cases in Delhi stands at 1,053 with the death toll reaching 1,053. Karnataka reported 406 new coronavirus cases, including six deaths in the last 24 hours, according to the state health department. The death toll in the state due to the virus has now reached 12,282 with 5,792 active cases currently. Maharashtra which is the worst-hit state due to the virus reported 5,427 coronavirus cases along with 38 deaths in the last 24 hours taking the total number of cases to 20,81,520. The death toll in Maharashtra due to the virus has now reached 51,669. In Maharashtra's Yavatmal district restrictions have been imposed due to rising coronavirus cases, however, it is not a lockdown, the district collector said with schools and colleges to remain closed till February 28.

COVID-19 vaccinations in India crosses 1 crore mark; 97 deaths in last 24 hours

First time since the clash with India in June last year, China has revealed that four soldiers had died during the border clash in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/chinas-peoples-liberation-army-pulls-back-from-pangong-area-along-lac-364003">Galwan </a>Valley with Indian troops in eastern Ladakh.&nbsp;

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-vacating-military-camps-along-pangong-tso-here-are-the-first-images-364401/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Chinese state media said Chen Hongjun, Chen Xiangrong, Xiao Siyuan and Wang Zhuoran had died during the “fierce struggle” against “foreign troops”. Chinese state-run media Global Times added that the PLA troops were given posthumous awards.

The Global Times report said five PLA soldiers were "honoured for their sacrifice" by China with four killed in the Galwan Valley clash in Ladakh with the Indian Army.

“Five Chinese frontier officers and soldiers stationed in the Karakorum Mountains have been recognised by the Central Military Commission of China for their contributions in the border confrontation with India, which occurred in the Galwan Valley in June 2020,” Global Times quoted the PLA Daily as saying.

Twenty Indian soldiers had died in action during the June 15-16 clash in eastern Ladakh which led to escalated tensions between India and China with both countries ramping up troops.

As tensions mounted, Chinese troops fired at Indian positions for the first time as both countries moved troops and heavy armour along the Line of Actual Control(LAC).

The nine-month standoff came to an end after China announced it was pulling out troops from the border in eastern Ladakh earlier this month which was backed by India's defence minister Rajnath Singh in Parliament who confirmed the troop withdrawal. &nbsp;

China and India have begun to pull back troops, tanks and other equipment from the banks of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/india-china-standoff-why-area-along-pangong-lake-became-a-flashpoint-362844">Pangong Tso</a>, a glacial lake in the Ladakh region which had become a flashpoint in the prolonged border dispute with complete disengagement at Pangong expected to be completed by the end of this week.

As a part of the agreement, the Chinese forces will move east of Finger 8 of the north bank of the lake while India will base its troops at the permanent base Dhan Singh Thapa post.

First time since the clash with India in June last year, China has revealed that four soldiers had died during the border clash in Galwan Valley with Indian troops in eastern Ladakh.

First time since the clash with India in June last year, China has revealed that four soldiers had died during the border clash in Galwan Valley with Indian troops in eastern Ladakh. Watch: Chinese state media said Chen Hongjun, Chen Xiangrong, Xiao Siyuan and Wang Zhuoran had died during the “fierce struggle” against “foreign troops”. Chinese state-run media Global Times added that the PLA troops were given posthumous awards. The Global Times report said five PLA soldiers were "honoured for their sacrifice" by China with four killed in the Galwan Valley clash in Ladakh with the Indian Army. “Five Chinese frontier officers and soldiers stationed in the Karakorum Mountains have been recognised by the Central Military Commission of China for their contributions in the border confrontation with India, which occurred in the Galwan Valley in June 2020,” Global Times quoted the PLA Daily as saying. Twenty Indian soldiers had died in action during the June 15-16 clash in eastern Ladakh which led to escalated tensions between India and China with both countries ramping up troops. As tensions mounted, Chinese troops fired at Indian positions for the first time as both countries moved troops and heavy armour along the Line of Actual Control(LAC). The nine-month standoff came to an end after China announced it was pulling out troops from the border in eastern Ladakh earlier this month which was backed by India's defence minister Rajnath Singh in Parliament who confirmed the troop withdrawal. China and India have begun to pull back troops, tanks and other equipment from the banks of Pangong Tso, a glacial lake in the Ladakh region which had become a flashpoint in the prolonged border dispute with complete disengagement at Pangong expected to be completed by the end of this week. As a part of the agreement, the Chinese forces will move east of Finger 8 of the north bank of the lake while India will base its troops at the permanent base Dhan Singh Thapa post.

India-China standoff: 4 soldiers killed in Galwan clash with India in June last year, reveals China

Mumbai, Feb 19 (IANS) Amitabh Bachchan confirmed on Friday that his new film Jhund will release in theatres on June 18. The film is directed by Sairat maker Nagraj Manjule.
 
"Covid gave us setbacks .. but it`s comeback time now! WE`RE BACK IN THEATERS .. JHUND releasing 18th June !!" Big B tweeted. 
"AMITABH BACHCHAN: #JHUND ARRIVES ON 18 JUNE 2021... #Jhund - #AmitabhBachchan and #Sairaat director Nagraj Popatrao Manjule`s first collaboration - to release in *cinemas* on 18 June 2021. #Jhund is produced by Bhushan Kumar, Krishan Kumar, Raaj Hiremath, Savita Raj Hiremath, Nagraj Manjule, Gargee Kulkarni, Sandip Ssingh and Meenu Aroraa," tweeted trade analyst Taran Adarsh. 
Big B essays a role based on Slum Soccer founder Vijay Barse in the upcoming sports drama. The film narrates the story of a professor who encourages street children to build a football team, in order to help them find a purpose in life. 
--IANS 
abh/vnc

Mumbai, Feb 19 (IANS) Amitabh Bachchan confirmed on Friday that his new film Jhund will release in theatres on June 18. The film is directed by Sairat maker Nagraj Manjule.

Mumbai, Feb 19 (IANS) Amitabh Bachchan confirmed on Friday that his new film Jhund will release in theatres on June 18. The film is directed by Sairat maker Nagraj Manjule. "Covid gave us setbacks .. but it`s comeback time now! WE`RE BACK IN THEATERS .. JHUND releasing 18th June !!" Big B tweeted. "AMITABH BACHCHAN: #JHUND ARRIVES ON 18 JUNE 2021... #Jhund - #AmitabhBachchan and #Sairaat director Nagraj Popatrao Manjule`s first collaboration - to release in *cinemas* on 18 June 2021. #Jhund is produced by Bhushan Kumar, Krishan Kumar, Raaj Hiremath, Savita Raj Hiremath, Nagraj Manjule, Gargee Kulkarni, Sandip Ssingh and Meenu Aroraa," tweeted trade analyst Taran Adarsh. Big B essays a role based on Slum Soccer founder Vijay Barse in the upcoming sports drama. The film narrates the story of a professor who encourages street children to build a football team, in order to help them find a purpose in life. --IANS abh/vnc

Amitabh Bachchan-starrer ''Jhund'' in theatres on June 18

European Union envoy to India Ugo Astuto has termed his visit to union territory of Jammu and Kashmir an 'opportunity' to see the 'situation on the ground' and during his interaction taken note of the recent district development council (DDC) elections and resumption of the 4G high-speed internet.&nbsp;

EU envoy speaking to WION said, "In our interaction, we have taken note of recent steps taken, such as the election of the district development council, the resumption of 4G internet services. It is very important obviously, right to freedom of expression online and offline is a key-value for all democracies."&nbsp;

Adding, "We have also noted with great expectations as to other important steps to be taken in the political and economic sphere including the early organization of legislative assembly elections. Overall, the visit presented the opportunity to see the situation on the ground and interact with some local interlocutors as part of the European Union's outreach to all stakeholders and we definitely look forward to continuing our dialogue with our Indian interlocutor."&nbsp;

The two-day visit on Wednesday and Thursday saw 24 foreign heads of the mission visiting the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir. The envoys visited Srinagar, Budgam, and Jammu. The programme included meeting with the military and the civil authorities, including elected representative. During the Srinagar visit, the envoys met elected representatives of urban local bodies, DDC and block development councils from all districts of the Kashmir division. The group also visited the famous Hazratbal shrine, one of the holiest mosques in the union territory.&nbsp;

The biggest percentage of envoys in the present group came from Europe. These were the EU, Finland, France, Italy, Ireland, Netherlands, Portugal, Spain, and Sweden. This is the third such visit of foreign envoys, with two batches visiting the Union territory last year in January and February. EU envoy was present in previous such visits as well.

European Union envoy to India Ugo Astuto has termed his visit to union territory of Jammu and Kashmir an 'opportunity' to see the 'situation on the ground' and during his interaction taken note of the recent district development council (DDC) elections and resumption of the 4G high-speed internet.

European Union envoy to India Ugo Astuto has termed his visit to union territory of Jammu and Kashmir an 'opportunity' to see the 'situation on the ground' and during his interaction taken note of the recent district development council (DDC) elections and resumption of the 4G high-speed internet. EU envoy speaking to WION said, "In our interaction, we have taken note of recent steps taken, such as the election of the district development council, the resumption of 4G internet services. It is very important obviously, right to freedom of expression online and offline is a key-value for all democracies." Adding, "We have also noted with great expectations as to other important steps to be taken in the political and economic sphere including the early organization of legislative assembly elections. Overall, the visit presented the opportunity to see the situation on the ground and interact with some local interlocutors as part of the European Union's outreach to all stakeholders and we definitely look forward to continuing our dialogue with our Indian interlocutor." The two-day visit on Wednesday and Thursday saw 24 foreign heads of the mission visiting the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir. The envoys visited Srinagar, Budgam, and Jammu. The programme included meeting with the military and the civil authorities, including elected representative. During the Srinagar visit, the envoys met elected representatives of urban local bodies, DDC and block development councils from all districts of the Kashmir division. The group also visited the famous Hazratbal shrine, one of the holiest mosques in the union territory. The biggest percentage of envoys in the present group came from Europe. These were the EU, Finland, France, Italy, Ireland, Netherlands, Portugal, Spain, and Sweden. This is the third such visit of foreign envoys, with two batches visiting the Union territory last year in January and February. EU envoy was present in previous such visits as well.

J&K visit an opportunity to see ground situation: EU envoy

India's Metroman’ Elattuvalapil Sreedharan E Sreedharan on Friday said his main aim of joining Bharatiya Janata Party is to help the party come to power in Kerala and that he will be open to chief ministership.

Known as 'Metroman' as well as for the efficiency in completing big infrastructure projects, Sreedharan said that It has become a fashion to oppose whatever the Modi government is doing.

He strongly supported the new farm laws and asserted that there is no “intolerance” in the country.

He also said any attempt to malign the government before a foreign dispensation or medium can’t be called “freedom of expression” as that would tantamount to “war against the establishment” and this constitutional right has to be controlled if it is misused against our own country.

He also said there is no intolerance in the country. “Where is intolerance? It is all just talk. We have got a very strong judiciary and intolerance cannot function, it is just talking. If their view is not accepted by govt, they say it is intolerance. There is absolutely no intolerance according to me?”

Hailing from Kerala, the 88-year-old technocrat said that he wants to do things for the benefit of the state and those can be done by entering politics. He said his main aim is to help the BJP come to power in Kerala where the assembly polls are due in April-May this year. Sreedharan said that he has known Prime Minister Narendra Modi for several years. When Modi was the Chief Minister of Gujarat, he had worked on various projects in the state.

“I know him (Modi) from very close quarters. He is very upright, corruption-free, committed, very passionate about the country’s interests, very hardworking and very forward-looking,” he added.

In an interview to PTI, he said the debate on nationalism that is happening is unfortunate and that there are “so many petty parties” that are all against the BJP and a combined attack is going on against it for no reason.

“That is why all these things are happening. The government is so forward-looking and dynamic…if they join (support) the (central) government, things will be so different for India and the world. Unfortunately, some of our friends in opposite parties are working against the interests of the country,” he said.

On the ongoing farmer protests against the Centre’s new farm laws, Sreedharan opined that farmers might not have really understood the benefits of these legislations.

When asked whether the protests could be seen as a kind of situation where it is about industry versus farmers, he replied in the negative and said, “It has nothing to do with the industry unless we are dragging industry into it.”

“It is that either farmers have not understood or they don’t want to understand for political reasons. It has become a fashion in this country that whatever the (central) government does, oppose it…. Anything that the government wants to do, there is an opposition, unfortunately,” said Sreedharan, who is better known as the ‘Metroman’ and has been instrumental in developing the Delhi Metro Rail project apart from various other infrastructure projects.

Ruling out the possibility of him acting as a mediator between the central government and the protesting farmers, Sreedharan said the issues have to be sorted out by the government.

“They have to educate the farmers and tell them that it is in their own interest. If this is not done, what is going to happen to them? They (protesting farmers) don’t realise what will happen five years down the line,” he noted.

To a query on whether he is optimistic about a constructive solution to the ongoing protests which have been going on for a few months now, he said the protests are not being dragged on by farmers really but “dragged on by elements opposed to the central government”.

When asked about his views on the debate on freedom of expression, Sreedharan said it is a right in the Constitution but if the freedom of expression is misused against the country, then certainly that has to be controlled.

“If you go to a foreign government or medium and complain about all sorts of things about the government and convince them that the government is wrong, then that is a wrong thing. This is not freedom of expression. This is sort of a war against the establishment, the government. This is how Hitler also started…giving false opinion that this is freedom of expression and misled people,” he said.

(With inputs from PTI)

India's Metroman’ Elattuvalapil Sreedharan E Sreedharan on Friday said his main aim of joining Bharatiya Janata Party is to help the party come to power in Kerala and that he will be open to chief ministership.

India's Metroman’ Elattuvalapil Sreedharan E Sreedharan on Friday said his main aim of joining Bharatiya Janata Party is to help the party come to power in Kerala and that he will be open to chief ministership. Known as 'Metroman' as well as for the efficiency in completing big infrastructure projects, Sreedharan said that It has become a fashion to oppose whatever the Modi government is doing. He strongly supported the new farm laws and asserted that there is no “intolerance” in the country. He also said any attempt to malign the government before a foreign dispensation or medium can’t be called “freedom of expression” as that would tantamount to “war against the establishment” and this constitutional right has to be controlled if it is misused against our own country. He also said there is no intolerance in the country. “Where is intolerance? It is all just talk. We have got a very strong judiciary and intolerance cannot function, it is just talking. If their view is not accepted by govt, they say it is intolerance. There is absolutely no intolerance according to me?” Hailing from Kerala, the 88-year-old technocrat said that he wants to do things for the benefit of the state and those can be done by entering politics. He said his main aim is to help the BJP come to power in Kerala where the assembly polls are due in April-May this year. Sreedharan said that he has known Prime Minister Narendra Modi for several years. When Modi was the Chief Minister of Gujarat, he had worked on various projects in the state. “I know him (Modi) from very close quarters. He is very upright, corruption-free, committed, very passionate about the country’s interests, very hardworking and very forward-looking,” he added. In an interview to PTI, he said the debate on nationalism that is happening is unfortunate and that there are “so many petty parties” that are all against the BJP and a combined attack is going on against it for no reason. “That is why all these things are happening. The government is so forward-looking and dynamic…if they join (support) the (central) government, things will be so different for India and the world. Unfortunately, some of our friends in opposite parties are working against the interests of the country,” he said. On the ongoing farmer protests against the Centre’s new farm laws, Sreedharan opined that farmers might not have really understood the benefits of these legislations. When asked whether the protests could be seen as a kind of situation where it is about industry versus farmers, he replied in the negative and said, “It has nothing to do with the industry unless we are dragging industry into it.” “It is that either farmers have not understood or they don’t want to understand for political reasons. It has become a fashion in this country that whatever the (central) government does, oppose it…. Anything that the government wants to do, there is an opposition, unfortunately,” said Sreedharan, who is better known as the ‘Metroman’ and has been instrumental in developing the Delhi Metro Rail project apart from various other infrastructure projects. Ruling out the possibility of him acting as a mediator between the central government and the protesting farmers, Sreedharan said the issues have to be sorted out by the government. “They have to educate the farmers and tell them that it is in their own interest. If this is not done, what is going to happen to them? They (protesting farmers) don’t realise what will happen five years down the line,” he noted. To a query on whether he is optimistic about a constructive solution to the ongoing protests which have been going on for a few months now, he said the protests are not being dragged on by farmers really but “dragged on by elements opposed to the central government”. When asked about his views on the debate on freedom of expression, Sreedharan said it is a right in the Constitution but if the freedom of expression is misused against the country, then certainly that has to be controlled. “If you go to a foreign government or medium and complain about all sorts of things about the government and convince them that the government is wrong, then that is a wrong thing. This is not freedom of expression. This is sort of a war against the establishment, the government. This is how Hitler also started…giving false opinion that this is freedom of expression and misled people,” he said. (With inputs from PTI)

There is no intolerance in the country; fashionable to oppose whatever Modi govt does: E Sreedharan

ISRO has recently undertaken a mission to take start-ups in the space sector to a higher orbit with a string of initiatives to help them realise their business potential.

The Indian space agency is keen on formulating an exclusive space start-up programme -- "Space Entrepreneurship and Enterprise Development (SEED)", Secretary in the Department of Space and Chairman of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) K Sivan said.

SEED is conceived as a competitive early stage encouragement programme for start-ups and MSMEs (Micro, Small, Medium Enterprises) keen on developing products/services in focus areas of interest to ISRO with the space agency helping them to use its facilities.

The Bengaluru--headquartered ISRO, under the Department of Space (DoS), has set up three space technology incubation centres -- at the National Institute of Technology (NIT) in Tiruchirappalli, Jalandhar and Agartala. Three more are in progress.

DoS has also collaborated with Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), Niti Aayog, to launch three challenges in space domain -- 'ARISE' programme as a part of Aatmanirbhar Atal New India Challenges [ANIC] for promotion of applied research and innovation in small enterprises (MSMEs-Startups).

Under this initiative, 28 proposals have been received from 24 private entities and are under evaluation.

ISRO officials said various opportunities and provisions, including buy-back arrangements, are being created within the agency to encourage start-ups.

The primary objective of this workshop was to bring forth a greater synergy between the DoS and incubators/accelerators in India, showcasing intent of the Department to provide support and guidance to the start-ups working in the space sector.

Earlier this month, DoS entered into a Non Disclosure Agreement (NDA) with Skyroot Aerospace Pvt. Ltd., a private company based in Hyderabad building small satellite launch vehicles.

In December, the DoS had inked a similar pact with Agnikul Cosmos Pvt. Ltd, a Chennai based start-up company located in the National Centre for combustion R&amp;D, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai, building private small satellite launch vehicle.

'Anand' remote sensing satellite built by Bengaluru-based start-up, Pixxel, is among the payloads to be launched by ISRO rocket PSLV-C51 on February 28.

(with inputs)

ISRO has recently undertaken a mission to take start-ups in the space sector to a higher orbit with a string of initiatives to help them realise their business potential.

ISRO has recently undertaken a mission to take start-ups in the space sector to a higher orbit with a string of initiatives to help them realise their business potential. The Indian space agency is keen on formulating an exclusive space start-up programme -- "Space Entrepreneurship and Enterprise Development (SEED)", Secretary in the Department of Space and Chairman of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) K Sivan said. SEED is conceived as a competitive early stage encouragement programme for start-ups and MSMEs (Micro, Small, Medium Enterprises) keen on developing products/services in focus areas of interest to ISRO with the space agency helping them to use its facilities. The Bengaluru--headquartered ISRO, under the Department of Space (DoS), has set up three space technology incubation centres -- at the National Institute of Technology (NIT) in Tiruchirappalli, Jalandhar and Agartala. Three more are in progress. DoS has also collaborated with Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), Niti Aayog, to launch three challenges in space domain -- 'ARISE' programme as a part of Aatmanirbhar Atal New India Challenges [ANIC] for promotion of applied research and innovation in small enterprises (MSMEs-Startups). Under this initiative, 28 proposals have been received from 24 private entities and are under evaluation. ISRO officials said various opportunities and provisions, including buy-back arrangements, are being created within the agency to encourage start-ups. The primary objective of this workshop was to bring forth a greater synergy between the DoS and incubators/accelerators in India, showcasing intent of the Department to provide support and guidance to the start-ups working in the space sector. Earlier this month, DoS entered into a Non Disclosure Agreement (NDA) with Skyroot Aerospace Pvt. Ltd., a private company based in Hyderabad building small satellite launch vehicles. In December, the DoS had inked a similar pact with Agnikul Cosmos Pvt. Ltd, a Chennai based start-up company located in the National Centre for combustion R&D, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai, building private small satellite launch vehicle. 'Anand' remote sensing satellite built by Bengaluru-based start-up, Pixxel, is among the payloads to be launched by ISRO rocket PSLV-C51 on February 28. (with inputs)

ISRO on a mission to boost space start-ups, increase their business potential

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