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Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday paid tribute to the security personnel who were killed in a terror attack in south Kashmir`s Pulwama in 2019.

"We pay tribute to all those men martyred in the Pulwama terror attack," Modi said during his visit to Chennai.

The Prime Minister said that the people were proud of Indian security forces and their bravery would continue to inspire generations.

On February 14, 2019, a car filled with explosives had exploded near a Central Reserve Police Forces convoy while on way to Srinagar from Jammu, killing 40 men.

Modi inaugurated a slew of infrastructure projects which he said were examples of innovation and the idea of `Swadeshi` which would promote development.

The Prime Minister said that the Chennai Metro Phase-1 project had been completed within stipulated time despite the coronavirus pandemic. Its civil construction activities were completed by Indian contractors which symbolises `Atmanirbhar` Bharat, he added.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday paid tribute to the security personnel who were killed in a terror attack in south Kashmir`s Pulwama in 2019. "We pay tribute to all those men martyred in the Pulwama terror attack," Modi said during his visit to Chennai.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday paid tribute to the security personnel who were killed in a terror attack in south Kashmir`s Pulwama in 2019. "We pay tribute to all those men martyred in the Pulwama terror attack," Modi said during his visit to Chennai. The Prime Minister said that the people were proud of Indian security forces and their bravery would continue to inspire generations. On February 14, 2019, a car filled with explosives had exploded near a Central Reserve Police Forces convoy while on way to Srinagar from Jammu, killing 40 men. Modi inaugurated a slew of infrastructure projects which he said were examples of innovation and the idea of `Swadeshi` which would promote development. The Prime Minister said that the Chennai Metro Phase-1 project had been completed within stipulated time despite the coronavirus pandemic. Its civil construction activities were completed by Indian contractors which symbolises `Atmanirbhar` Bharat, he added.

PM Modi pays tribute to Pulwama martyrs

Canadian Prime minister Justin Trudeau has confirmed that his country is "looking" for extra covid vaccines from India. Last week both PM Trudeau and&nbsp;Indian PM Narendra Modi spoke to each other with latter assuring the former of covid vaccine supplies.

Trudeau in response to a question in a presser said, "We are looking at possible extra vaccines coming from India from the Serum Institute, work is being closely on that"

Adding, "It was good to talk to PM Modi on a range of subjects" including, the "role India is playing on producing vaccines for the developing world and other issues that is important to us.".

Canada has a deal to get 20 million Astrazeneca covid vaccine which he said is not "from the Indian production facility, I believe they are from AstraZeneca facility from South Korea".

The talks between the two&nbsp;sides come two&nbsp;months after Canadian PM spoke on the ongoing farmers' protests in India.

In December he made comments on the farmers'&nbsp;protests angering New Delhi which lodged a strong protest by a rare summoning of Canadian envoy to India, Nadir Patel.

During the talks last week, farmers issue was discussed with&nbsp;Trudeau "commending" New Delhi's efforts "to choose the path of dialogue as befitting in democracy", the ministry of external affairs said on Friday in response to a question.

India, which produces 60 per cent&nbsp;of global vaccines, has sent COVID&nbsp;vaccines to more than 20 countries.&nbsp;

New Delhi has gifted vaccines to 13 countries while sending&nbsp;vaccines on a commercial basis to 9 countries. In all it has&nbsp;supplied&nbsp;229.7&nbsp;lakh doses of COVID vaccines to the global community-- 64.7 lakh doses as a gift, 165 lakh doses commercially.

Canadian Prime minister Justin Trudeau has confirmed that his country is "looking" for extra covid vaccines from India. Last week both PM Trudeau and Indian PM Narendra Modi spoke to each other with latter assuring the former of covid vaccine supplies.

Canadian Prime minister Justin Trudeau has confirmed that his country is "looking" for extra covid vaccines from India. Last week both PM Trudeau and Indian PM Narendra Modi spoke to each other with latter assuring the former of covid vaccine supplies. Trudeau in response to a question in a presser said, "We are looking at possible extra vaccines coming from India from the Serum Institute, work is being closely on that" Adding, "It was good to talk to PM Modi on a range of subjects" including, the "role India is playing on producing vaccines for the developing world and other issues that is important to us.". Canada has a deal to get 20 million Astrazeneca covid vaccine which he said is not "from the Indian production facility, I believe they are from AstraZeneca facility from South Korea". The talks between the two sides come two months after Canadian PM spoke on the ongoing farmers' protests in India. In December he made comments on the farmers' protests angering New Delhi which lodged a strong protest by a rare summoning of Canadian envoy to India, Nadir Patel. During the talks last week, farmers issue was discussed with Trudeau "commending" New Delhi's efforts "to choose the path of dialogue as befitting in democracy", the ministry of external affairs said on Friday in response to a question. India, which produces 60 per cent of global vaccines, has sent COVID vaccines to more than 20 countries. New Delhi has gifted vaccines to 13 countries while sending vaccines on a commercial basis to 9 countries. In all it has supplied 229.7 lakh doses of COVID vaccines to the global community-- 64.7 lakh doses as a gift, 165 lakh doses commercially.

Looking for 'extra' COVID vaccines from India: Canadian PM

Beneficiaries of the nationwide COVID-19 immunisation drive began receiving second dose with over 7,000 healthcare workers getting the jab on Saturday, 28 days after their first shot on the inaugural day.

The Union Health Ministry said the cumulative number of healthcare and frontline workers vaccinated against coronavirus in the country surpassed 80 lakh on Saturday.

It said 80,52,454 beneficiaries have been vaccinated through 1,69,215 sessions, according to the provisional report till Saturday 6 pm. These include 59,35,275 healthcare workers and 21,17,179 frontline workers.

"The second dose of COVID-19 vaccination started from today&nbsp;for those beneficiaries who have completed 28 days after receipt of the first dose. The approval provided by DCGI accords a window of four to six weeks for the second dose. As many as 7,668 healthcare workers received the second dose of vaccine today," the ministry said.

On Saturday, 84,807 beneficiaries were inoculated till 6 pm, the 29th day of nationwide COVID-19 vaccination as per provisional data. As many as 4,434 sessions were organised on Saturday till 6 pm, the ministry said.

Thirty-four states and Union Territories conducted COVID-19 vaccinations on Saturday.

Twelve states UTs have vaccinated more than 70 per cent of the registered heathcare workers. These are -- Bihar, Lakshadweep, Tripura, Odisha, Madhya Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Kerala, Rajasthan, Mizoram and Sikkim.

On the other hand, seven states and UTs have reported less than 40 per cent coverage of registered healthcare workers. These are Meghalaya, Punjab, Manipur, Tamil Nadu, Chandigarh, Nagaland and Puducherry.

Ten states that recorded the highest number of vaccinations are Jammu and Kashmir, West Bengal, Gujarat, Jharkhand, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Bihar, Uttarakhand, Tripura and Delhi.

Total 34 people have so far been hospitalised after being administered COVID-19 vaccine. It comprises 0.0004 per cent of the total vaccinations.

Of these cases of hospitalisation, 21 were discharged after treatment, while 11 died and two are under treatment, the health ministry said. 
In the last 24 hours, no person has been hospitalized, it stated.

"Total 27 deaths have been recorded till date. These comprise 0.0003 per cent of the total vaccinations. Of these, 11 died in the hospital while 16 fatalities were recorded outside the hospital.

"No case of serious/severe adverse effect after immunisation or death is attributable to vaccination till date," the health ministry said.

In the last 24 hours, three new deaths have been reported.

A 38-year-old person of Harda in Madhya Pradesh died due to myocardial infarction nine days after vaccination. Another is a 35-year-old resident of Panipat in Haryana who suffered from pneumonia with acute respiratory distress syndrome and died eight days after vaccination.

A 58-year-old resident of Dausa in Rajasthan, who had received vaccine, collapsed on duty and was brought dead to a hospital. Post-mortem details of all are awaited.

Union Health Secretary Rajesh Bhushan reviewed in detail the status and progress of COVID-19 vaccination drive and urged all states and Union Territories to adhere to timelines for covering all healthcare and frontline workers with first dose of vaccines and schedule their mop-up rounds.

The standard operating procedure for second dose scheduling on Co-WIN software have been shared with states and Union Territories.

In a letter to all states and UTs, Bhushan pointed out that according to the rapid assessment system only 88.9 per cent beneficiaries have indicated that they were provided information regarding adverse event following immunization (AEFI) at the session site.

The states and UTs have been advised to ensure that all vaccination officers are trained and informed regarding AEFI and they should provide such information to all beneficiaries.

In order to strengthen surveillance following COVID-19 vaccination, the Union health secretary has also urged states and UTs to ensure that AEFI committees at the state and district levels meet regularly to oversee the overall performance of AEFI Surveillance System.&nbsp;

Beneficiaries of the nationwide COVID-19 immunisation drive began receiving second dose with over 7,000 healthcare workers getting the jab on Saturday, 28 days after their first shot on the inaugural day.

Beneficiaries of the nationwide COVID-19 immunisation drive began receiving second dose with over 7,000 healthcare workers getting the jab on Saturday, 28 days after their first shot on the inaugural day. The Union Health Ministry said the cumulative number of healthcare and frontline workers vaccinated against coronavirus in the country surpassed 80 lakh on Saturday. It said 80,52,454 beneficiaries have been vaccinated through 1,69,215 sessions, according to the provisional report till Saturday 6 pm. These include 59,35,275 healthcare workers and 21,17,179 frontline workers. "The second dose of COVID-19 vaccination started from today for those beneficiaries who have completed 28 days after receipt of the first dose. The approval provided by DCGI accords a window of four to six weeks for the second dose. As many as 7,668 healthcare workers received the second dose of vaccine today," the ministry said. On Saturday, 84,807 beneficiaries were inoculated till 6 pm, the 29th day of nationwide COVID-19 vaccination as per provisional data. As many as 4,434 sessions were organised on Saturday till 6 pm, the ministry said. Thirty-four states and Union Territories conducted COVID-19 vaccinations on Saturday. Twelve states UTs have vaccinated more than 70 per cent of the registered heathcare workers. These are -- Bihar, Lakshadweep, Tripura, Odisha, Madhya Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Kerala, Rajasthan, Mizoram and Sikkim. On the other hand, seven states and UTs have reported less than 40 per cent coverage of registered healthcare workers. These are Meghalaya, Punjab, Manipur, Tamil Nadu, Chandigarh, Nagaland and Puducherry. Ten states that recorded the highest number of vaccinations are Jammu and Kashmir, West Bengal, Gujarat, Jharkhand, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Bihar, Uttarakhand, Tripura and Delhi. Total 34 people have so far been hospitalised after being administered COVID-19 vaccine. It comprises 0.0004 per cent of the total vaccinations. Of these cases of hospitalisation, 21 were discharged after treatment, while 11 died and two are under treatment, the health ministry said. In the last 24 hours, no person has been hospitalized, it stated. "Total 27 deaths have been recorded till date. These comprise 0.0003 per cent of the total vaccinations. Of these, 11 died in the hospital while 16 fatalities were recorded outside the hospital. "No case of serious/severe adverse effect after immunisation or death is attributable to vaccination till date," the health ministry said. In the last 24 hours, three new deaths have been reported. A 38-year-old person of Harda in Madhya Pradesh died due to myocardial infarction nine days after vaccination. Another is a 35-year-old resident of Panipat in Haryana who suffered from pneumonia with acute respiratory distress syndrome and died eight days after vaccination. A 58-year-old resident of Dausa in Rajasthan, who had received vaccine, collapsed on duty and was brought dead to a hospital. Post-mortem details of all are awaited. Union Health Secretary Rajesh Bhushan reviewed in detail the status and progress of COVID-19 vaccination drive and urged all states and Union Territories to adhere to timelines for covering all healthcare and frontline workers with first dose of vaccines and schedule their mop-up rounds. The standard operating procedure for second dose scheduling on Co-WIN software have been shared with states and Union Territories. In a letter to all states and UTs, Bhushan pointed out that according to the rapid assessment system only 88.9 per cent beneficiaries have indicated that they were provided information regarding adverse event following immunization (AEFI) at the session site. The states and UTs have been advised to ensure that all vaccination officers are trained and informed regarding AEFI and they should provide such information to all beneficiaries. In order to strengthen surveillance following COVID-19 vaccination, the Union health secretary has also urged states and UTs to ensure that AEFI committees at the state and district levels meet regularly to oversee the overall performance of AEFI Surveillance System.

COVID vaccination drive: Over 7,000 get second dose, total 80 lakh vaccinated so far

    	Mumbai, Feb 13 (PTI) A total of 151 birds were found
  Dead in Maharashtra on Friday amid the avian influenza scare and samples have been sent for tests, a state animal husbandry department official said on Saturday.
	These include 134 poultry birds from Buldana, Amravati and Jalgaon, he said.
	Bird flu tests are being run on the samples in the National Institute of High Security Animal Diseases in Bhopal, as well as Pune based Disease Investigation Section, he added.
	He said 7,12,172 poultry birds, including 5,78,360 birds from Navapur in Nandurbar, 19.68 lakh eggs and 72,974 kilogram poultry feed have been destroyed in the infected zone.  

Mumbai, Feb 13 (PTI) A total of 151 birds were found Dead in Maharashtra on Friday amid the avian influenza scare and samples have been sent for tests, a state animal husbandry department official said on Saturday.

Mumbai, Feb 13 (PTI) A total of 151 birds were found Dead in Maharashtra on Friday amid the avian influenza scare and samples have been sent for tests, a state animal husbandry department official said on Saturday. These include 134 poultry birds from Buldana, Amravati and Jalgaon, he said. Bird flu tests are being run on the samples in the National Institute of High Security Animal Diseases in Bhopal, as well as Pune based Disease Investigation Section, he added. He said 7,12,172 poultry birds, including 5,78,360 birds from Navapur in Nandurbar, 19.68 lakh eggs and 72,974 kilogram poultry feed have been destroyed in the infected zone.

MH-BIRD-FLU

At least three sailors were missing while one injured crewman was rescued after a fire raged through an offshore supply vessel, Greatship Rohini around 170 kms off Mumbai in the Arabian Sea, here on Saturday. 
 
According to an Indian Coast Guard spokesperson, the blaze broke out on the Greatship Rohini around this morning when it was close to the ONGC`s Bombay High NQO platform. 
 
On getting the information, the ICG diverted an offshore patrol vessel Samarth to the location and an ICG Dornier aircraft flew to the spot for an aerial assessment of the emergency. 
 
The ICG ship reached the vicinity of the fire-ravaged vessel around 13.30 hrs this afternoon while another ship, MV Albatross-5 pulled out the Greatship Rohini to a safe distance from the NQO ONGC platform rig. 
 
ICGS Samarth along with another OSV Priya-27 launched the fire-fighting operations with its advanced External Fire Fighting System and created a boundary cooling to control the spread of the blaze. 
 
Owing to excessive heat and some, the Greatship Rohini crew were unable to enter the engine room where the blaze started but an ICGS Samarth team boarded her for further assessment of the situation. 
 
The ICG said that while 3 sailors are still missing and believed to be trapped in the ship`s blazing engine room, the injured sailor was airlifted by an ONGC helicopter to Mumbai for treatment. 
 
Till 2000 hrs on Saturday, the fire-fighting operations were still underway on the Greatship Rohini and the ICGS also dispatched a pollution control vessel to the location, and further details are awaited on the mishap. 
&nbsp;

At least three sailors were missing while one injured crewman was rescued after a fire raged through an offshore supply vessel, Greatship Rohini around 170 kms off Mumbai in the Arabian Sea, here on Saturday.

At least three sailors were missing while one injured crewman was rescued after a fire raged through an offshore supply vessel, Greatship Rohini around 170 kms off Mumbai in the Arabian Sea, here on Saturday. According to an Indian Coast Guard spokesperson, the blaze broke out on the Greatship Rohini around this morning when it was close to the ONGC`s Bombay High NQO platform. On getting the information, the ICG diverted an offshore patrol vessel Samarth to the location and an ICG Dornier aircraft flew to the spot for an aerial assessment of the emergency. The ICG ship reached the vicinity of the fire-ravaged vessel around 13.30 hrs this afternoon while another ship, MV Albatross-5 pulled out the Greatship Rohini to a safe distance from the NQO ONGC platform rig. ICGS Samarth along with another OSV Priya-27 launched the fire-fighting operations with its advanced External Fire Fighting System and created a boundary cooling to control the spread of the blaze. Owing to excessive heat and some, the Greatship Rohini crew were unable to enter the engine room where the blaze started but an ICGS Samarth team boarded her for further assessment of the situation. The ICG said that while 3 sailors are still missing and believed to be trapped in the ship`s blazing engine room, the injured sailor was airlifted by an ONGC helicopter to Mumbai for treatment. Till 2000 hrs on Saturday, the fire-fighting operations were still underway on the Greatship Rohini and the ICGS also dispatched a pollution control vessel to the location, and further details are awaited on the mishap.

3 sailors missing, 1 hurt as fire breaks out in ship in Arabian Sea

Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari on Saturday said that considering the social cause, automobile manufacturers should provide basic safety in vehicles at a minimum affordable price.

Pointing to a recent study which states that if we succeed in preventing deaths in road accidents, we can save around Rs 90 lakh per person, Gadkari said that it is essential that automobile manufacturers should further enhance safety features.

The Minister was releasing the World Bank Report titled, "Traffic Crash Injuries And Disabilities: The Burden on India Society", prepared in association with the NGO-Save Life Foundation today.

Broadly, the report says that road accidents are a tremendous burden to society and the nation, and states: Reducing road accident deaths and injuries can boost income growth. Large welfare gains can be achieved from proven cost-effective road safety interventions. Road accident deaths and injuries strike down prime working-age adults in low and middle-income countries.

Gadkari said road accidents are a public health issue and challenge in countries like India, and said his Ministry has been taking several measures to reduce road accident deaths by strengthening what he termed the "4Es" of improving road safety - Engineering, Education, Enforcement and Emergency care services.

The Minister said the government is working with the World Bank on various projects, one of which is to streamline the road crash database that is Integrated Road Accident Database (iRAD).

Pointing out that one of the key findings of the report is that number of accident deaths is double in poor families as compared to rich ones, Gadkari said that, for the government, each death is precious, whether it is from a poor family or a rich family.

Institutional reform, the Minister said, is very much needed, and it is very important to have a streamlined and robust, and accessible legal, insurance, and healthcare ecosystem.

The Minister said that recommendations of the report on the safety of vulnerable road users, cashless treatment, improvement of civic and health infrastructures, penetration and compensation mechanism of insurance, post-crash response ecosystem, and integration of stake-holders would help in revising the Motor Vehicle Amendment Act 2019 and Motor Vehicle rules.

"The World Bank report comes even as the country is observing an extended first-ever "Road Safety Month" currently to build awareness of road safety," stated the press release by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways.&nbsp;

Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari on Saturday said that considering the social cause, automobile manufacturers should provide basic safety in vehicles at a minimum affordable price.

Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari on Saturday said that considering the social cause, automobile manufacturers should provide basic safety in vehicles at a minimum affordable price. Pointing to a recent study which states that if we succeed in preventing deaths in road accidents, we can save around Rs 90 lakh per person, Gadkari said that it is essential that automobile manufacturers should further enhance safety features. The Minister was releasing the World Bank Report titled, "Traffic Crash Injuries And Disabilities: The Burden on India Society", prepared in association with the NGO-Save Life Foundation today. Broadly, the report says that road accidents are a tremendous burden to society and the nation, and states: Reducing road accident deaths and injuries can boost income growth. Large welfare gains can be achieved from proven cost-effective road safety interventions. Road accident deaths and injuries strike down prime working-age adults in low and middle-income countries. Gadkari said road accidents are a public health issue and challenge in countries like India, and said his Ministry has been taking several measures to reduce road accident deaths by strengthening what he termed the "4Es" of improving road safety - Engineering, Education, Enforcement and Emergency care services. The Minister said the government is working with the World Bank on various projects, one of which is to streamline the road crash database that is Integrated Road Accident Database (iRAD). Pointing out that one of the key findings of the report is that number of accident deaths is double in poor families as compared to rich ones, Gadkari said that, for the government, each death is precious, whether it is from a poor family or a rich family. Institutional reform, the Minister said, is very much needed, and it is very important to have a streamlined and robust, and accessible legal, insurance, and healthcare ecosystem. The Minister said that recommendations of the report on the safety of vulnerable road users, cashless treatment, improvement of civic and health infrastructures, penetration and compensation mechanism of insurance, post-crash response ecosystem, and integration of stake-holders would help in revising the Motor Vehicle Amendment Act 2019 and Motor Vehicle rules. "The World Bank report comes even as the country is observing an extended first-ever "Road Safety Month" currently to build awareness of road safety," stated the press release by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways.

Vehicle manufacturers should provide basic safety features at minimum affordable price: Gadkari

Tremors were felt across northern India following an earthquake in Tajikistan late Friday, and while the entire world panicked and ran for cover, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi was unfazed.

Gandhi was then virtually interacting with the students of the University of Chicago. When he realised there was "an earthquake going on", he continued with the live event calmly. He, however, chuckled a bit and let the panelists know of the quake.

A video capturing the moment has gone viral on the social media.

“By the bye, I think there’s an earthquake going on,” Gandhi is heard saying on the live Zoom interaction with historian Dipesh Chakrabarty and the students when the earthquake struck.

Moments later, he is seen saying as he answers a student’s question: “My room is shaking.”

Pretty cool, isn't it?

Watch the video here:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/earthquake?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#earthquake</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RahulGandhi</a> in between in a live interview when earthquake happened.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/earthquake?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#earthquake</a> <a href="https://t.co/GRp9sxHoMY">pic.twitter.com/GRp9sxHoMY</a>
— Rohit Yadav (@RohitnVicky) <a href="https://twitter.com/RohitnVicky/status/1360300033153798148?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 12, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/earthquake-measuring-63-jolts-tajikistan-tremors-felt-in-delhi-and-northern-india-363261">Must read | Earthquake measuring 6.3 jolts Tajikistan, tremors felt in Delhi and northern India</a>

Strong tremors were felt in several parts of northern India including the capital city of New Delhi and as far as Srinagar on Friday.

As per the India Metrological Department (IMD), the epicentre of the earthquake was in Tajikistan.

The National Centre for Seismology said an earthquake of magnitude 6.3 hit Tajikistan at 10:31 pm, and tremors were felt in northern India.

The quake also jolted parts of Jammu and Kashmir, Noida, Punjab, Haryana and Uttarakhand. 
&nbsp;

Tremors were felt across northern India following an earthquake in Tajikistan late Friday, and while the entire world panicked and ran for cover, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi was unfazed.

Tremors were felt across northern India following an earthquake in Tajikistan late Friday, and while the entire world panicked and ran for cover, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi was unfazed. Gandhi was then virtually interacting with the students of the University of Chicago. When he realised there was "an earthquake going on", he continued with the live event calmly. He, however, chuckled a bit and let the panelists know of the quake. A video capturing the moment has gone viral on the social media. “By the bye, I think there’s an earthquake going on,” Gandhi is heard saying on the live Zoom interaction with historian Dipesh Chakrabarty and the students when the earthquake struck. Moments later, he is seen saying as he answers a student’s question: “My room is shaking.” Pretty cool, isn't it? Watch the video here: #earthquake @RahulGandhi in between in a live interview when earthquake happened.#earthquake pic.twitter.com/GRp9sxHoMY — Rohit Yadav (@RohitnVicky) February 12, 2021 × Must read | Earthquake measuring 6.3 jolts Tajikistan, tremors felt in Delhi and northern India Strong tremors were felt in several parts of northern India including the capital city of New Delhi and as far as Srinagar on Friday. As per the India Metrological Department (IMD), the epicentre of the earthquake was in Tajikistan. The National Centre for Seismology said an earthquake of magnitude 6.3 hit Tajikistan at 10:31 pm, and tremors were felt in northern India. The quake also jolted parts of Jammu and Kashmir, Noida, Punjab, Haryana and Uttarakhand.

Rahul Gandhi remains unfazed even as earthquake strikes. Watch video

Indian astronomers have spotted one of the strongest flares from a feeding super massive black hole or blazar called BL Lacertae.

Blazars or feeding super massive black holes in the heart of distant galaxies receive a lot of attention from the astronomical community because of their complicated emission mechanism. They emit jets of charged particles travelling nearly at the speed of light and are one of the most luminous and energetic objects in the Universe.

The data collected from the flare observed will help calculation of the black hole mass, size of emission region, and mechanism of the emission from one of the oldest astronomical objects known.

The Department of Science and Technology added such analysis can provide a lead to probe mysteries and trace events at different stages of evolution of the Universe.

"BL Lacertae blazar is 10 million light-years away and is among the 50 most prominent blazars that can be observed with the help of a relatively small telescope. It was among the 3 to 4 blazars that was predicted to be experiencing flares by the Whole Earth Blazar Telescope (WEBT), an international consortium of astronomers," the statement said.

A team of astronomers led by Alok Chandra Gupta from Aryabhatta Research Institute of Observational Sciences (ARIES), an institute of the Department of Science and Technology, who has been following the blazar since October 2020 as part of an international observational campaign detected the exceptionally high flare on January 16 with the help of Sampurnanand Telescope (ST) and 1.3m Devasthal Fast Optical Telescopes located in Nainital.

Indian astronomers have spotted one of the strongest flares from a feeding super massive black hole or blazar called BL Lacertae. Blazars or feeding super massive black holes in the heart of distant galaxies receive a lot of attention from the astronomical community because of their complicated emission mechanism.

Indian astronomers have spotted one of the strongest flares from a feeding super massive black hole or blazar called BL Lacertae. Blazars or feeding super massive black holes in the heart of distant galaxies receive a lot of attention from the astronomical community because of their complicated emission mechanism. They emit jets of charged particles travelling nearly at the speed of light and are one of the most luminous and energetic objects in the Universe. The data collected from the flare observed will help calculation of the black hole mass, size of emission region, and mechanism of the emission from one of the oldest astronomical objects known. The Department of Science and Technology added such analysis can provide a lead to probe mysteries and trace events at different stages of evolution of the Universe. "BL Lacertae blazar is 10 million light-years away and is among the 50 most prominent blazars that can be observed with the help of a relatively small telescope. It was among the 3 to 4 blazars that was predicted to be experiencing flares by the Whole Earth Blazar Telescope (WEBT), an international consortium of astronomers," the statement said. A team of astronomers led by Alok Chandra Gupta from Aryabhatta Research Institute of Observational Sciences (ARIES), an institute of the Department of Science and Technology, who has been following the blazar since October 2020 as part of an international observational campaign detected the exceptionally high flare on January 16 with the help of Sampurnanand Telescope (ST) and 1.3m Devasthal Fast Optical Telescopes located in Nainital.

Indian astronomers detect optical flare in one of the oldest space objects

China's ByteDance is said to be exploring the sale of the India operations of TikTok to rival unicorn Glance, Bloomberg News reported on Saturday.

The discussions, initiated by Japan's SoftBank Group Corp, are private, early and complex, the report said, citing people familiar with the matter.

Glance's parent, mobile advertising technology firm InMobi, also owns short-video app Roposo that has gained in popularity after TikTok was banned by the Indian government in July last year.

SoftBank is a backer of InMobi Pte as well as TikTok's Chinese parent, ByteDance, the report added.

Softbank, ByteDance and InMobi, did not immediately respond to Reuters request for comment.

Last month, ByteDance reduced its 2,000-plus India team and said in a company memo that it's unsure of resuming operations in India.

The move came after India decided to retain its ban on TikTok and 58 other Chinese apps following responses from the companies on issues such as compliance and privacy.

According to the report, the Indian government will insist that user data and technology of TikTok stay within its borders if the talks progress.

China's ByteDance is said to be exploring the sale of the India operations of TikTok to rival unicorn Glance, Bloomberg News reported on Saturday. The discussions, initiated by Japan's SoftBank Group Corp, are private, early and complex, the report said, citing people familiar with the matter.

China's ByteDance is said to be exploring the sale of the India operations of TikTok to rival unicorn Glance, Bloomberg News reported on Saturday. The discussions, initiated by Japan's SoftBank Group Corp, are private, early and complex, the report said, citing people familiar with the matter. Glance's parent, mobile advertising technology firm InMobi, also owns short-video app Roposo that has gained in popularity after TikTok was banned by the Indian government in July last year. SoftBank is a backer of InMobi Pte as well as TikTok's Chinese parent, ByteDance, the report added. Softbank, ByteDance and InMobi, did not immediately respond to Reuters request for comment. Last month, ByteDance reduced its 2,000-plus India team and said in a company memo that it's unsure of resuming operations in India. The move came after India decided to retain its ban on TikTok and 58 other Chinese apps following responses from the companies on issues such as compliance and privacy. According to the report, the Indian government will insist that user data and technology of TikTok stay within its borders if the talks progress.

ByteDance explores sale of Indian TikTok assets to rival firm Glance

India has once again stepped up to help a country in need. This time, India is gifting 2,000 tonnes of rice to Syria where people have been starving due to economic collapse and constant violence.

The war-torn country has been struggling to meet ends meet with the majority of the population falling below the poverty line.&nbsp;

In order to help the ailing country, India is delivering 2,000 tonnes of rice as a response to the request for emergency humanitarian assistance from the Syrian government, the external affairs ministry said.

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Govt. of India’s humanitarian assistance of 2000 MT rice as Gift for People &amp; Govt of Syria arrives in Latakia. Amb Hifzur Rahman presents the gift to Syrian Minister of Local Admin, Head of Supreme Relief Com. Eng Makhlouf<a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DrSJaishankar</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MEAIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/SecySanjay?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SecySanjay</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/IndianDiplomacy?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndianDiplomacy</a> <a href="https://t.co/ivoUnjSXsN">pic.twitter.com/ivoUnjSXsN</a>
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The Indian ambassador Hifzur Rahman handed over the first 1,000 tonnes of rice to Hussain Makhlouf, Syria’s minister of local administration and head of the Supreme Relief Committee on Friday at Latakia port. Next 1,000 tonnes of rice will be delivered to Syria by February 18.

"India and Syria have historically enjoyed close and friendly relations. The government of India has always stood in solidarity with the people of Syria, and our bilateral engagement has continued apace even during the years of internal conflict there through a number of development and capacity building projects," the external affairs ministry said.

Last year in July, the Indian government had gifted nearly 10 tonnes of medicines to Syria to assist them through the coronavirus pandemic, which had stopped several aides to the war-torn country.

In addition to this, a camp was also set up in January 2020, called 'Jaipur foot', for artificial limbs. Organised by the Indian external affairs ministry in partnership with Bhagwan Mahaveer Viklang Sahayata Samiti, this camp, organised in Damascus, benefited nearly 500 Syrian nationals.

India has once again stepped up to help a country in need. This time, India is gifting 2,000 tonnes of rice to Syria where people have been starving due to economic collapse and constant violence.

India has once again stepped up to help a country in need. This time, India is gifting 2,000 tonnes of rice to Syria where people have been starving due to economic collapse and constant violence. The war-torn country has been struggling to meet ends meet with the majority of the population falling below the poverty line. In order to help the ailing country, India is delivering 2,000 tonnes of rice as a response to the request for emergency humanitarian assistance from the Syrian government, the external affairs ministry said. Govt. of India’s humanitarian assistance of 2000 MT rice as Gift for People & Govt of Syria arrives in Latakia. Amb Hifzur Rahman presents the gift to Syrian Minister of Local Admin, Head of Supreme Relief Com. Eng Makhlouf@DrSJaishankar @MEAIndia @SecySanjay @IndianDiplomacy pic.twitter.com/ivoUnjSXsN — India in Damascus (@eoidamascus) February 11, 2021 × The Indian ambassador Hifzur Rahman handed over the first 1,000 tonnes of rice to Hussain Makhlouf, Syria’s minister of local administration and head of the Supreme Relief Committee on Friday at Latakia port. Next 1,000 tonnes of rice will be delivered to Syria by February 18. "India and Syria have historically enjoyed close and friendly relations. The government of India has always stood in solidarity with the people of Syria, and our bilateral engagement has continued apace even during the years of internal conflict there through a number of development and capacity building projects," the external affairs ministry said. Last year in July, the Indian government had gifted nearly 10 tonnes of medicines to Syria to assist them through the coronavirus pandemic, which had stopped several aides to the war-torn country. In addition to this, a camp was also set up in January 2020, called 'Jaipur foot', for artificial limbs. Organised by the Indian external affairs ministry in partnership with Bhagwan Mahaveer Viklang Sahayata Samiti, this camp, organised in Damascus, benefited nearly 500 Syrian nationals.

India gifts 2,000 tonnes of rice to Syria as 'humanitarian assistance'

New Delhi, Feb 13 (IANSlife) After months and months of social distancing and lockdowns, on Valentine`s Day celebrate your girlfriend, a friend, a sibling, your husband or wife and express your appreciation for your loved one.

Valentine''s Day 2021 Mega Gifting Guide

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Saturday hit back at Congress leader Rahul Gandhi`s "Hum do, Hamare do" jibe with the same slogan. She also accused him of playing a role like a "doomsday man" by insulting the legislative authority like the PM, former PM, President and even the Lok Sabha chair.

Delivering her final speech on the discussion on Union Budget 2021-2022 in the Lok Sabha, the Finance Minister took on Gandhi saying he is probably becoming the "doomsday man" of India, building "fake narratives" that "demean" the country.

Sitharaman`s "doomsday" remark came in an obvious indication when she mentioned without taking Rahul`s name that "there is a `doomsday man` who said two days ago that he will not speak on Budget. What kind of role he wants to play?"

Gandhi on Thursday spoke the same line in the Lok Sabha while speaking on the farm laws when the discussion on the Motion of Thanks to the President`s Address was already over and he was given time to participate in the ongoing debate on Union Budget 2021-2022.

"The leader and its party continuously abusing the legislative by hitting the dignity of PM, former PM, President and the Lok Sabha chair. Why do you always choose to insult the legislative authority?...Abuse and then seek apology, this is the tendency of the party.

"The party`s position in Rajya Sabha is different and here in Lok Sabha they show another position. The party is continuously spreading fake narrative. The party follows two tendencies -- create institution, use it for own benefit; create disturbance," Sitharaman said.

As Sitharaman was replying to the discussion on the Union Budget, she posed 10 questions about Rahul Gandhi`s speech which was mainly on the farmers` protest, not Union Budget 2021, the finance minister said.

Referring to Gandhi`s `Hum do, Hamare do` comment which Gandhi had made in the Lok Sabha to attack the Central government on Thursday over the farm laws, the Minister used the same slogan, mentioning if the party blames the government it should also think about how it is taking care of "daughter and damad".

Sitharaman said though the Congress comes up with "very good schemes", it lacks the will to use those schemes properly as those schemes turn into devices to only favour "cronies" and "hum do hamare do".

"Hum do, Hamare do` is that we are two people taking care of the party, and there are two other people who take care of daughter and damad," Sitharaman said, adding "we don`t do that as Rs 10,000 is given to 50 lakh street traders as working capital for one year and they are not anyone`s cronies," Sitharaman said.

"Take the credit of giving birth to MNREGA. But also take credit for mismanaging it, for giving money to ghost workers."

In his remarks against the government, Gandhi had said, "Years ago there was a family planning slogan - Hum do, Hamare do (we two and our two), but just like corona has returned in another form, this slogan too has made a comeback. Today, four people run the country - Hum do, Hamare do," Gandhi had said without taking any names.

Continuing her attack, Sitharaman questioned, "Where are the cronies? They are hiding probably in the shadow of that party which has been rejected by the people. The shadows who were invited to even develop a port. They invited, no open tenders, no global tenders."

Mentioning PM SVANidhi Yojana, the Minister said she mentions it for those who are constantly accusing the government of dealing with cronies.

"SVANidhi doesn`t go to cronies. Damads get land in states which are governed by some parties -- Rajasthan, Haryana once upon a time."

Addressing Thiruvananthapuram MP Shashi Tharoor, Sitharaman said, "Kerala invited one crony to develop a port -- no bidding, just invitation. Because Kerala has no damad, Damad is here. Damads get land in states which are governed by some parties."

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Saturday hit back at Congress leader Rahul Gandhi`s "Hum do, Hamare do" jibe with the same slogan. She also accused him of playing a role like a "doomsday man" by insulting the legislative authority like the PM, former PM, President and even the Lok Sabha chair.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Saturday hit back at Congress leader Rahul Gandhi`s "Hum do, Hamare do" jibe with the same slogan. She also accused him of playing a role like a "doomsday man" by insulting the legislative authority like the PM, former PM, President and even the Lok Sabha chair. Delivering her final speech on the discussion on Union Budget 2021-2022 in the Lok Sabha, the Finance Minister took on Gandhi saying he is probably becoming the "doomsday man" of India, building "fake narratives" that "demean" the country. Sitharaman`s "doomsday" remark came in an obvious indication when she mentioned without taking Rahul`s name that "there is a `doomsday man` who said two days ago that he will not speak on Budget. What kind of role he wants to play?" Gandhi on Thursday spoke the same line in the Lok Sabha while speaking on the farm laws when the discussion on the Motion of Thanks to the President`s Address was already over and he was given time to participate in the ongoing debate on Union Budget 2021-2022. "The leader and its party continuously abusing the legislative by hitting the dignity of PM, former PM, President and the Lok Sabha chair. Why do you always choose to insult the legislative authority?...Abuse and then seek apology, this is the tendency of the party. "The party`s position in Rajya Sabha is different and here in Lok Sabha they show another position. The party is continuously spreading fake narrative. The party follows two tendencies -- create institution, use it for own benefit; create disturbance," Sitharaman said. As Sitharaman was replying to the discussion on the Union Budget, she posed 10 questions about Rahul Gandhi`s speech which was mainly on the farmers` protest, not Union Budget 2021, the finance minister said. Referring to Gandhi`s `Hum do, Hamare do` comment which Gandhi had made in the Lok Sabha to attack the Central government on Thursday over the farm laws, the Minister used the same slogan, mentioning if the party blames the government it should also think about how it is taking care of "daughter and damad". Sitharaman said though the Congress comes up with "very good schemes", it lacks the will to use those schemes properly as those schemes turn into devices to only favour "cronies" and "hum do hamare do". "Hum do, Hamare do` is that we are two people taking care of the party, and there are two other people who take care of daughter and damad," Sitharaman said, adding "we don`t do that as Rs 10,000 is given to 50 lakh street traders as working capital for one year and they are not anyone`s cronies," Sitharaman said. "Take the credit of giving birth to MNREGA. But also take credit for mismanaging it, for giving money to ghost workers." In his remarks against the government, Gandhi had said, "Years ago there was a family planning slogan - Hum do, Hamare do (we two and our two), but just like corona has returned in another form, this slogan too has made a comeback. Today, four people run the country - Hum do, Hamare do," Gandhi had said without taking any names. Continuing her attack, Sitharaman questioned, "Where are the cronies? They are hiding probably in the shadow of that party which has been rejected by the people. The shadows who were invited to even develop a port. They invited, no open tenders, no global tenders." Mentioning PM SVANidhi Yojana, the Minister said she mentions it for those who are constantly accusing the government of dealing with cronies. "SVANidhi doesn`t go to cronies. Damads get land in states which are governed by some parties -- Rajasthan, Haryana once upon a time." Addressing Thiruvananthapuram MP Shashi Tharoor, Sitharaman said, "Kerala invited one crony to develop a port -- no bidding, just invitation. Because Kerala has no damad, Damad is here. Damads get land in states which are governed by some parties."

FM Sitharaman calls Rahul Gandhi a 'doomsday man'

 Glasgow [Scotland], February 13 (ANI): Bollywood star Sonam Kapoor on Saturday concluded the shooting for her upcoming crime-thriller `Blind` in Scotland.Film critic and movie trade analyst Taran Adarsh took to Twitter and announced that the movie was shot in a 39-day start to finish schedule."SONAM KAPOOR: CRIME THRILLER FILMING COMPLETE... #Blind - starring #SonamKapoorAhuja - was shot in a 39-day start-to-finish schedule in #Glasgow [#Scotland]...." tweeted Adarsh."Costars #VinayPathak, #PurabKohli and #LilleteDubey... Directed by Shome Makhija. #Blind is produced by Sujoy Ghosh, Avishek Ghosh, Manisha W, Prince Nahar, Sachin Nahar, and Hyunwoo Thomas Kim... 2021 release." he added.Alongside the post, Adarsh also shared a picture of the `Aisha` star as she smilingly held the clap of the final shoot from the sets, along with teammates.`Blind`, whose shoot kickstarted on December 28 in Glasgow, United Kingdom, is a Bollywood remake of the 2011 released Korean crime-thriller of the same name, directed by Ahn Sang-hoon.The movie is being directed by Shome Makhija and produced by Sujoy Ghosh, Avishek Ghosh, Manisha W, Pinkesh Nahar, Sachin Nahar, and Hyunwoo Thomas Kim. `Blind` is scheduled to release in 2021. (ANI) 

Glasgow [Scotland], February 13 (ANI): Bollywood star Sonam Kapoor on Saturday concluded the shooting for her upcoming crime-thriller `Blind` in Scotland.Film critic and movie trade analyst Taran Adarsh took to Twitter and announced that the movie was shot in a 39-day start to finish schedule.

Glasgow [Scotland], February 13 (ANI): Bollywood star Sonam Kapoor on Saturday concluded the shooting for her upcoming crime-thriller `Blind` in Scotland.Film critic and movie trade analyst Taran Adarsh took to Twitter and announced that the movie was shot in a 39-day start to finish schedule."SONAM KAPOOR: CRIME THRILLER FILMING COMPLETE... #Blind - starring #SonamKapoorAhuja - was shot in a 39-day start-to-finish schedule in #Glasgow [#Scotland]...." tweeted Adarsh."Costars #VinayPathak, #PurabKohli and #LilleteDubey... Directed by Shome Makhija. #Blind is produced by Sujoy Ghosh, Avishek Ghosh, Manisha W, Prince Nahar, Sachin Nahar, and Hyunwoo Thomas Kim... 2021 release." he added.Alongside the post, Adarsh also shared a picture of the `Aisha` star as she smilingly held the clap of the final shoot from the sets, along with teammates.`Blind`, whose shoot kickstarted on December 28 in Glasgow, United Kingdom, is a Bollywood remake of the 2011 released Korean crime-thriller of the same name, directed by Ahn Sang-hoon.The movie is being directed by Shome Makhija and produced by Sujoy Ghosh, Avishek Ghosh, Manisha W, Pinkesh Nahar, Sachin Nahar, and Hyunwoo Thomas Kim. `Blind` is scheduled to release in 2021. (ANI)

Sonam Kapoor wraps up shooting for crime-thriller ''Blind''

Strong tremors were felt in several parts of northern India including the capital city of New Delhi and as far as Srinagar on Friday.

As per the India Metrological Department (IMD), the epicentre of the earthquake was in Tajikistan.

The National Centre for Seismology said an earthquake&nbsp;of magnitude 6.3 hit&nbsp;Tajikistan at 10:31 pm, and tremors were felt in northern India.

The quake also jolted parts of Jammu and Kashmir, Noida, Punjab, Haryana and Uttarakhand.

There were no immediate reports of any loss of life or damage to property.

The GFZ German Research Center for Geosciences (GFZ) said an earthquake of magnitude 6.2 struck the Tajikistan-Xinjiang border region late on Friday.

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M5.7 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/earthquake?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#earthquake</a> (<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%D0%B7%D0%B5%D0%BC%D0%BB%D0%B5%D1%82%D1%80%D1%8F%D1%81%D0%B5%D0%BD%D0%B8%D0%B5?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#землетрясение</a>) strikes 23 km W of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Murghob?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Murghob</a> (<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Tajikistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Tajikistan</a>) 17 min ago. Updated map of its effects: <a href="https://t.co/qnh7YFRx6X">pic.twitter.com/qnh7YFRx6X</a>
— EMSC (@LastQuake) <a href="https://twitter.com/LastQuake/status/1360277022153523204?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 12, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Tremors were also felt in Pakistan -- capital Islamabad and major cities of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, Punjab provinces and Pakistan occupied-Kashmir.

Pakistan geologically overlaps the Eurasian and Indian tectonic plates and is a earthquake-prone zone. The Chaman Fault poses the biggest threat of quakes to the country.

Strong tremors were felt in several parts of northern India including the capital city of New Delhi and as far as Srinagar on Friday. As per the India Metrological Department (IMD), the epicentre of the earthquake was in Tajikistan.

Strong tremors were felt in several parts of northern India including the capital city of New Delhi and as far as Srinagar on Friday. As per the India Metrological Department (IMD), the epicentre of the earthquake was in Tajikistan. The National Centre for Seismology said an earthquake of magnitude 6.3 hit Tajikistan at 10:31 pm, and tremors were felt in northern India. The quake also jolted parts of Jammu and Kashmir, Noida, Punjab, Haryana and Uttarakhand. There were no immediate reports of any loss of life or damage to property. The GFZ German Research Center for Geosciences (GFZ) said an earthquake of magnitude 6.2 struck the Tajikistan-Xinjiang border region late on Friday. M5.7 #earthquake (#землетрясение) strikes 23 km W of #Murghob (#Tajikistan) 17 min ago. Updated map of its effects: pic.twitter.com/qnh7YFRx6X — EMSC (@LastQuake) February 12, 2021 × Tremors were also felt in Pakistan -- capital Islamabad and major cities of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, Punjab provinces and Pakistan occupied-Kashmir. Pakistan geologically overlaps the Eurasian and Indian tectonic plates and is a earthquake-prone zone. The Chaman Fault poses the biggest threat of quakes to the country.

Earthquake measuring 6.3 jolts Tajikistan, tremors felt in Delhi and northern India

The Ministry of Defence in a statement on Friday said its forces were able to prevent "any unilateral change in status quo' at the line of actual control (LAC) by Beijing -- a day Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh detailed the India-China disengagement at the Pangong Lake.

In an extensive statement to "set the record straight" in the backdrop of criticism by the Congress party, the defence ministry said, "India has not conceded any territory as a result of this agreement and effective safeguarding of our national interest and territory in the Eastern Ladakh sector has taken place because the government has reposed full faith in the capabilities of the armed forces."

As part of the disengagement at the northern bank of Pangong, the Chinese will move to the east of Finger 8, while Indian forces will be present at the Dhan Singh Thapa post near Finger 3. Under the agreement, there will be no patrolling in the area from Finger 3 to Finger 8 until further talks happen on the issue. No forward deployment will happen, and any permanent structures built by two sides from April, 2020 will be removed &nbsp;

The defence ministry statement added, "India has persistently maintained the right to patrol up to Finger 8, including in the current understanding with China"

Once the disengagement at Pangong is over, withing 48 hours the senior commanders from both sides will meet to address disengagement at Hot Springs, Gogra and Depsang in Eastern Ladakh. That will be the 10th round of such military talks to defuse the tensions between the two countries.&nbsp;

Both sides had nine rounds of talks last month during which the Pangong Lake disengagement was decided.&nbsp;

The Ministry of Defence in a statement on Friday said its forces were able to prevent "any unilateral change in status quo' at the line of actual control (LAC) by Beijing -- a day Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh detailed the India-China disengagement at the Pangong Lake.

The Ministry of Defence in a statement on Friday said its forces were able to prevent "any unilateral change in status quo' at the line of actual control (LAC) by Beijing -- a day Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh detailed the India-China disengagement at the Pangong Lake. In an extensive statement to "set the record straight" in the backdrop of criticism by the Congress party, the defence ministry said, "India has not conceded any territory as a result of this agreement and effective safeguarding of our national interest and territory in the Eastern Ladakh sector has taken place because the government has reposed full faith in the capabilities of the armed forces." As part of the disengagement at the northern bank of Pangong, the Chinese will move to the east of Finger 8, while Indian forces will be present at the Dhan Singh Thapa post near Finger 3. Under the agreement, there will be no patrolling in the area from Finger 3 to Finger 8 until further talks happen on the issue. No forward deployment will happen, and any permanent structures built by two sides from April, 2020 will be removed The defence ministry statement added, "India has persistently maintained the right to patrol up to Finger 8, including in the current understanding with China" Once the disengagement at Pangong is over, withing 48 hours the senior commanders from both sides will meet to address disengagement at Hot Springs, Gogra and Depsang in Eastern Ladakh. That will be the 10th round of such military talks to defuse the tensions between the two countries. Both sides had nine rounds of talks last month during which the Pangong Lake disengagement was decided.

India says it prevented unilateral change of status quo at LAC

Indian Army Chief General MM Naravane on Friday highlighted the perils of China's mega connectivity plans like the belt and road initiative (BRI), and said the project aims to "create regional dependencies".&nbsp;

Speaking at Assam Rifles-United Services institution joint annual seminar, he said, "The regional security environment is characterised by Chinese belligerence in the Indo-Pacific, its hostility towards weaker nations and relentless drive to create regional dependencies through initiatives like the BRI. The resultant Sino-US rivalry has created regional imbalances and instability."

BRI or the OBOR is Beijing's global infrastructure project, one whose key crucial component passes via Pakistan-occupied Kashmir as CPEC (China Pakistan Economic Corridor). The project is known to have created a debt crisis in many parts of the world, especially smaller countries that are unable to pay it, losing sovereignty over territories.

The army chief pointed out: "Regional and internal connectivity is acutely linked to security, and it is central to unleashing the potential of the North-east and balancing the influence of China."

Regionally, to the west, India has Chabahar port project in Iran connecting it with Afghanistan, Central Asia, while to the east it is focussing on the Kaladan multimodal project and operationalisation of the Sittwe port in Myanmar.&nbsp;

The army chief explained that the "rising footprints of China in India’s neighbourhood" and its "attempts to unilaterally alter the status-quo along our disputed borders have created an environment of confrontation and mutual distrust."

2020 was a year that saw an aggressive China, not only with India with which it had a multi-month long stand-off at the line of actual control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh but also with countries like Japan, Taiwan, and ASEAN countries in the South China sea, and even far off countries like Canada and Australia.

Interestingly, Naravane spoke on Nepal, calling the country "our traditional long term partner" but one "which has witnessed heavy Chinese investment" and "is going through a period of political volatility."

December saw Nepal PM KP Sharma Oli dissolving the Lower House of the Parliament, and this year will see elections in the country.

As a result of the actions of KP Sharma Oli, the Nepal communist party split, much to the chagrin of Beijing, who even sent a top-ranking minister in a bid to stop the development.&nbsp;

On Bangladesh, the army chief lauded the "upswing in relations", saying "the sight of the tri-service contingent from Bangladesh marching down Rajpath on the Republic Day bodes well for our future relations". He, however, expressed "serious concerns" over growing radicalisation in the society.

India is celebrating Swarnim Vijay Varsh to commemorate its victory over Pakistan in the 1971 War for Liberation of Bangladesh.&nbsp; 
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Dhaka in March to take part in the 50th year anniversary celebration of the country's independence.&nbsp;

Naravane also spoke about the counter-terror insurgent operations with Myanmar army code named -- Operation SUNRISE -- due to which he said both sides have seen "growing cooperation and the synergy between the soldiers on the ground with reasonable operational dividends."

Indian Army Chief General MM Naravane on Friday highlighted the perils of China's mega connectivity plans like the belt and road initiative (BRI), and said the project aims to "create regional dependencies".

Indian Army Chief General MM Naravane on Friday highlighted the perils of China's mega connectivity plans like the belt and road initiative (BRI), and said the project aims to "create regional dependencies". Speaking at Assam Rifles-United Services institution joint annual seminar, he said, "The regional security environment is characterised by Chinese belligerence in the Indo-Pacific, its hostility towards weaker nations and relentless drive to create regional dependencies through initiatives like the BRI. The resultant Sino-US rivalry has created regional imbalances and instability." BRI or the OBOR is Beijing's global infrastructure project, one whose key crucial component passes via Pakistan-occupied Kashmir as CPEC (China Pakistan Economic Corridor). The project is known to have created a debt crisis in many parts of the world, especially smaller countries that are unable to pay it, losing sovereignty over territories. The army chief pointed out: "Regional and internal connectivity is acutely linked to security, and it is central to unleashing the potential of the North-east and balancing the influence of China." Regionally, to the west, India has Chabahar port project in Iran connecting it with Afghanistan, Central Asia, while to the east it is focussing on the Kaladan multimodal project and operationalisation of the Sittwe port in Myanmar. The army chief explained that the "rising footprints of China in India’s neighbourhood" and its "attempts to unilaterally alter the status-quo along our disputed borders have created an environment of confrontation and mutual distrust." 2020 was a year that saw an aggressive China, not only with India with which it had a multi-month long stand-off at the line of actual control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh but also with countries like Japan, Taiwan, and ASEAN countries in the South China sea, and even far off countries like Canada and Australia. Interestingly, Naravane spoke on Nepal, calling the country "our traditional long term partner" but one "which has witnessed heavy Chinese investment" and "is going through a period of political volatility." December saw Nepal PM KP Sharma Oli dissolving the Lower House of the Parliament, and this year will see elections in the country. As a result of the actions of KP Sharma Oli, the Nepal communist party split, much to the chagrin of Beijing, who even sent a top-ranking minister in a bid to stop the development. On Bangladesh, the army chief lauded the "upswing in relations", saying "the sight of the tri-service contingent from Bangladesh marching down Rajpath on the Republic Day bodes well for our future relations". He, however, expressed "serious concerns" over growing radicalisation in the society. India is celebrating Swarnim Vijay Varsh to commemorate its victory over Pakistan in the 1971 War for Liberation of Bangladesh. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Dhaka in March to take part in the 50th year anniversary celebration of the country's independence. Naravane also spoke about the counter-terror insurgent operations with Myanmar army code named -- Operation SUNRISE -- due to which he said both sides have seen "growing cooperation and the synergy between the soldiers on the ground with reasonable operational dividends."

Indian army chief expresses concern over China's BRI, lauds ties with Nepal and Bangladesh

Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Anurag Srivastava in a weekly briefing has said that the Government of India is trying for the extradition of Pakistan-born Canadian Tahawwur Rana, who has been arrested in Los Angeles to face murder charges in India for the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks in which over 160 people were killed.

"We are keeping a close watch on the extradition of Tahawwur Rana. We are trying for his extradition as soon as possible. In an update, his court hearing will begin on April 22, 2021," he said.

Rana, 59, has been declared a fugitive by India, where he is facing multiple criminal charges for his involvement in the 2008 Mumbai terror attack in which 166 people, including six Americans, were killed.

He was rearrested on June 10 in Los Angeles on an extradition request by India.

Rana is a childhood friend of David Coleman Headley, the Pakistani-American LeT terrorist who was involved in plotting the 2008 Mumbai terror attack.

Headley, 60, was made an approver in the case, and is currently serving a 35-year prison term in the US for his role in the attack.

Mumbai had come to a standstill on November 26, 2008, when 10 Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorists who entered the city via sea route from Pakistan carried out a series of coordinated shootings and bombings that injured over 300 and claimed the lives of 166 people in India`s financial capital.

The attacks took place at Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CST) railway station, Cama Hospital, Nariman House business and residential complex, Leopold Cafe, Taj Hotel and Tower and the Oberoi-Trident Hotel.

(With inputs from agencies)

Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Anurag Srivastava in a weekly briefing has said that the Government of India is trying for the extradition of Pakistan-born Canadian Tahawwur Rana, who has been arrested in Los Angeles to face murder charges in India for the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks in which over 160 people were killed.

Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Anurag Srivastava in a weekly briefing has said that the Government of India is trying for the extradition of Pakistan-born Canadian Tahawwur Rana, who has been arrested in Los Angeles to face murder charges in India for the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks in which over 160 people were killed. "We are keeping a close watch on the extradition of Tahawwur Rana. We are trying for his extradition as soon as possible. In an update, his court hearing will begin on April 22, 2021," he said. Rana, 59, has been declared a fugitive by India, where he is facing multiple criminal charges for his involvement in the 2008 Mumbai terror attack in which 166 people, including six Americans, were killed. He was rearrested on June 10 in Los Angeles on an extradition request by India. Rana is a childhood friend of David Coleman Headley, the Pakistani-American LeT terrorist who was involved in plotting the 2008 Mumbai terror attack. Headley, 60, was made an approver in the case, and is currently serving a 35-year prison term in the US for his role in the attack. Mumbai had come to a standstill on November 26, 2008, when 10 Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorists who entered the city via sea route from Pakistan carried out a series of coordinated shootings and bombings that injured over 300 and claimed the lives of 166 people in India`s financial capital. The attacks took place at Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CST) railway station, Cama Hospital, Nariman House business and residential complex, Leopold Cafe, Taj Hotel and Tower and the Oberoi-Trident Hotel. (With inputs from agencies)

Govt of India trying for the extradition of 26/11 accused Tahawwur Rana: MEA

The Ministry of external affairs (MEA) has confirmed farmers' issues was discussed PM Modi and Canadian PM Justin Trudeau's talks with the latter "commended" New Delhi's efforts "to choose the path of dialogue as befitting in democracy".

Both leaders had spoken to each other earlier this week. The readout of the Canadian Govt said that Justin Trudeau had raised the farmers' issue with PM Modi. It said that the leaders discussed "Canada and India’s commitment to democratic principles, recent protests, and the importance of resolving issues through dialogue"

In December, the Canadian PM had commented on the ongoing farmers' protests in India angering New Delhi. The matter was raised in both Ottawa and Delhi, with MEA summoning the Canadian Envoy to India Nadir Patel and handing over a strong demarche. &nbsp;New Delhi had conveyed to Canada that such comments pertaining to the internal affairs of India are "unwarranted and unacceptable" and could impact ties.

India is increasingly worried about the Khalistani elements in Canadian society, something that also threatens the safety of its diplomats. &nbsp;The MEA spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said during the talks, Canadian PM "acknowledged the responsibility of his Government in providing protection to Indian diplomatic premises and personnel in Canada.” &nbsp;Recent weeks have seen protests by these elements, including anti-India campaigns by Canadian national Mo Dhaliwal, who was responsible for a "toolkit" that was tweeted by climate activist Greta Thunberg.

Covid vaccine was the key focus of the talks, with Indian PM assuring Canada of vaccines. PMO readout said, "Prime Minister assured the Canadian PM that India would do its best to support Canada's vaccination efforts, just as it had done for many other countries already."

The readout highlighted, "expressing his appreciation", Prime Minister Trudeau said that "if the world managed to conquer COVID-19, it would be significantly because of India's tremendous pharmaceutical capacity," and Prime Minister Modi's "leadership in sharing this capacity with the world. &nbsp;Prime Minister thanked PM Trudeau for his sentiments."

While the Canadian readout wasn't very explicit about Canada's vaccine request, it lauded India saying, "Prime Minister Trudeau and Prime Minister Modi spoke about India's significant efforts in promoting vaccine production and supply, which have provided vital support to countries around the world."&nbsp;

India has so far supplied 229.7 lakh doses of COVID vaccines to global community. Of these,64.7 lakh doses have been supplied as grants (gift) while 165 lakh doses have been supplied on a commercial basis.&nbsp;

New Delhi has gifted vaccines to 13 countries, which are Bangladesh (20 Lakhs), Myanmar (17 Lakhs), Nepal (10 Lakhs), Bhutan (1.5 Lakhs), Maldives (1 Lakh), Mauritius (1 Lakh), Seychelles (50000), Sri Lanka ( 5 Lakhs), Bahrain (1 Lakh), Oman (1 lakh), Afghanistan (5 Lakhs), Barbados (1 Lakh) and Dominica (70000).&nbsp;

It has sent vaccines to 9 countries on a commercial basis. These are Brazil (20 Lakhs), Morocco (60 Lakhs), Bangladesh (50 lakhs), Myanmar (20 lakhs), Egypt (50000), Algeria (50000), South Africa (10 Lakhs), Kuwait (2 Lakhs) and UAE (2 Lakhs).

The Ministry of external affairs (MEA) has confirmed farmers' issues was discussed PM Modi and Canadian PM Justin Trudeau's talks with the latter "commended" New Delhi's efforts "to choose the path of dialogue as befitting in democracy".

The Ministry of external affairs (MEA) has confirmed farmers' issues was discussed PM Modi and Canadian PM Justin Trudeau's talks with the latter "commended" New Delhi's efforts "to choose the path of dialogue as befitting in democracy". Both leaders had spoken to each other earlier this week. The readout of the Canadian Govt said that Justin Trudeau had raised the farmers' issue with PM Modi. It said that the leaders discussed "Canada and India’s commitment to democratic principles, recent protests, and the importance of resolving issues through dialogue" In December, the Canadian PM had commented on the ongoing farmers' protests in India angering New Delhi. The matter was raised in both Ottawa and Delhi, with MEA summoning the Canadian Envoy to India Nadir Patel and handing over a strong demarche. New Delhi had conveyed to Canada that such comments pertaining to the internal affairs of India are "unwarranted and unacceptable" and could impact ties. India is increasingly worried about the Khalistani elements in Canadian society, something that also threatens the safety of its diplomats. The MEA spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said during the talks, Canadian PM "acknowledged the responsibility of his Government in providing protection to Indian diplomatic premises and personnel in Canada.” Recent weeks have seen protests by these elements, including anti-India campaigns by Canadian national Mo Dhaliwal, who was responsible for a "toolkit" that was tweeted by climate activist Greta Thunberg. Covid vaccine was the key focus of the talks, with Indian PM assuring Canada of vaccines. PMO readout said, "Prime Minister assured the Canadian PM that India would do its best to support Canada's vaccination efforts, just as it had done for many other countries already." The readout highlighted, "expressing his appreciation", Prime Minister Trudeau said that "if the world managed to conquer COVID-19, it would be significantly because of India's tremendous pharmaceutical capacity," and Prime Minister Modi's "leadership in sharing this capacity with the world. Prime Minister thanked PM Trudeau for his sentiments." While the Canadian readout wasn't very explicit about Canada's vaccine request, it lauded India saying, "Prime Minister Trudeau and Prime Minister Modi spoke about India's significant efforts in promoting vaccine production and supply, which have provided vital support to countries around the world." India has so far supplied 229.7 lakh doses of COVID vaccines to global community. Of these,64.7 lakh doses have been supplied as grants (gift) while 165 lakh doses have been supplied on a commercial basis. New Delhi has gifted vaccines to 13 countries, which are Bangladesh (20 Lakhs), Myanmar (17 Lakhs), Nepal (10 Lakhs), Bhutan (1.5 Lakhs), Maldives (1 Lakh), Mauritius (1 Lakh), Seychelles (50000), Sri Lanka ( 5 Lakhs), Bahrain (1 Lakh), Oman (1 lakh), Afghanistan (5 Lakhs), Barbados (1 Lakh) and Dominica (70000). It has sent vaccines to 9 countries on a commercial basis. These are Brazil (20 Lakhs), Morocco (60 Lakhs), Bangladesh (50 lakhs), Myanmar (20 lakhs), Egypt (50000), Algeria (50000), South Africa (10 Lakhs), Kuwait (2 Lakhs) and UAE (2 Lakhs).

Canada PM Trudeau lauded PM Modi govt’s approach for dialogue with farmers: MEA

Congress senior leader Rahul Gandhi hits out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi over disengagement at Ladakh by Chinese People Liberation Army. He alleges PM Modi of compromising with India's integrity and giving away nation's territory to China. The govt of India in its reply lashes out at Rahul Gandhi and says to 'first must ask Jawaharlal Nehru (India's Former PM) about giving away land to China'.

'PM Modi gave away Indian territory to China', alleges Congress leader Rahul Gandhi

Now after the series of sharp exchanges with the Indian government, the microblogging platform Twitter has blocked most of the accounts that were listed by India set to have fueled the violence on the country's Republic Day.

Twitter vs Government: Twitter blocks most of the accounts listed by India

Eleven persons were killed and 23 injured in a fire accident at a fireworks factory in Tamil Nadu’s Virudhunagar district.&nbsp;

The incident happened on Friday afternoon and rescue operations are still underway by the district fire and rescue services personnel.

The death toll is likely to go up as the condition of some of the injured admitted to Sivakasi government hospital is stated to be critical.

Police said the fire in the factory in Achankulam near Sattur in Virudhunagar broke out when some chemicals were being mixed to produce firecrackers. Four cracker making sheds were destroyed.

Ten firefighting vehicles rushed to the spot from various surrounding locations like Sattur, Sivakasi and Vembakottai to douse the flames, while officials from police, revenue and other departments also reached there for rescue and relief works.

Chief Minister E.K. Palaniswami expressed grief over the death of 11 persons in the fire. He announced Rs 3 lakh each as solatium to kin of the bereaved families.

He also directed District Collectors to ensure safety of cracker unit workers during the summer.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed grief over the tragedy. The Prime Minister`s Office tweeted that authorities were working on the ground to assist those affected.

PMO announced Rs 2 lakh ex-gratia each from PMNRF for the next of kin of those who lost their lives. Rs 50,000 would be given to those seriously injured.

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An ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh each has been approved from PMNRF for the next of kin of those who have lost their lives due to a fire in Virudhunagar, Tamil Nadu. Rs. 50,000 would be given to those seriously injured.
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/1360180596992016384?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 12, 2021</a></blockquote>
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"Fire at a firecracker factory in Virudhunagar, Tamil Nadu is saddening. In this hour of grief, my thoughts are with the bereaved families. I hope those injured recover soon," said the Prime Minister.

(With inputs from agencies)

Eleven persons were killed and 23 injured in a fire accident at a fireworks factory in Tamil Nadu’s Virudhunagar district. The incident happened on Friday afternoon and rescue operations are still underway by the district fire and rescue services personnel.

Eleven persons were killed and 23 injured in a fire accident at a fireworks factory in Tamil Nadu’s Virudhunagar district. The incident happened on Friday afternoon and rescue operations are still underway by the district fire and rescue services personnel. The death toll is likely to go up as the condition of some of the injured admitted to Sivakasi government hospital is stated to be critical. Police said the fire in the factory in Achankulam near Sattur in Virudhunagar broke out when some chemicals were being mixed to produce firecrackers. Four cracker making sheds were destroyed. Ten firefighting vehicles rushed to the spot from various surrounding locations like Sattur, Sivakasi and Vembakottai to douse the flames, while officials from police, revenue and other departments also reached there for rescue and relief works. Chief Minister E.K. Palaniswami expressed grief over the death of 11 persons in the fire. He announced Rs 3 lakh each as solatium to kin of the bereaved families. He also directed District Collectors to ensure safety of cracker unit workers during the summer. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed grief over the tragedy. The Prime Minister`s Office tweeted that authorities were working on the ground to assist those affected. PMO announced Rs 2 lakh ex-gratia each from PMNRF for the next of kin of those who lost their lives. Rs 50,000 would be given to those seriously injured. An ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh each has been approved from PMNRF for the next of kin of those who have lost their lives due to a fire in Virudhunagar, Tamil Nadu. Rs. 50,000 would be given to those seriously injured. — PMO India (@PMOIndia) February 12, 2021 × "Fire at a firecracker factory in Virudhunagar, Tamil Nadu is saddening. In this hour of grief, my thoughts are with the bereaved families. I hope those injured recover soon," said the Prime Minister. (With inputs from agencies)

11 dead in fire at firecracker factory in Tamil Nadu; PM announces ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh

India has called for release of detained political leaders and upholding of "democratic processes" in Myanmar in the aftermath of a military coup in the country.

India's envoy to UN in Geneva Indra Mani Pandey, while addressing the UN Human Rights Council, said, "Unfortunately, the hopes and aspirations of the people of Myanmar have been dealt with a blow by the latest developments. We strongly believe that the rule of law and democratic processes must be upheld and the detained political leaders released."

"The right to protest peacefully is an integral part of the democratic ethos," he added.

This is the third such official statement by India in the aftermath of the February 1 coup. The first two statements were made by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).

The Indian envoy in his statement expressed deep concerns, and called on "the leadership of Myanmar to work together to resolve their differences in a peaceful and constructive manner" and that "restoring democratic order should be the priority of all stakeholders in Myanmar."

Also, India lauded the "progress achieved on the path to democracy, over the last decade or more" which was "impressive".

India and Myanmar have good bilateral relations, including high level engagement. Last year, Indian Army Chief General MM Naravane and Foreign Secretary Harsh Shringla visited Myanmar.

Pandey, to this end, said, "India shares a land and maritime border with Myanmar. We have direct stakes in the maintenance of peace and stability and the development of the country and we propose to continue with our developmental efforts so that people on the ground do not suffer."

New Delhi had earlier sent 1.5 million India-made vaccines to Myanmar. India is also engaged in number of connectivity projects with the country, including operationalisation of Sittwe project.&nbsp;

India has called for release of detained political leaders and upholding of "democratic processes" in Myanmar in the aftermath of a military coup in the country.

India has called for release of detained political leaders and upholding of "democratic processes" in Myanmar in the aftermath of a military coup in the country. India's envoy to UN in Geneva Indra Mani Pandey, while addressing the UN Human Rights Council, said, "Unfortunately, the hopes and aspirations of the people of Myanmar have been dealt with a blow by the latest developments. We strongly believe that the rule of law and democratic processes must be upheld and the detained political leaders released." "The right to protest peacefully is an integral part of the democratic ethos," he added. This is the third such official statement by India in the aftermath of the February 1 coup. The first two statements were made by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). The Indian envoy in his statement expressed deep concerns, and called on "the leadership of Myanmar to work together to resolve their differences in a peaceful and constructive manner" and that "restoring democratic order should be the priority of all stakeholders in Myanmar." Also, India lauded the "progress achieved on the path to democracy, over the last decade or more" which was "impressive". India and Myanmar have good bilateral relations, including high level engagement. Last year, Indian Army Chief General MM Naravane and Foreign Secretary Harsh Shringla visited Myanmar. Pandey, to this end, said, "India shares a land and maritime border with Myanmar. We have direct stakes in the maintenance of peace and stability and the development of the country and we propose to continue with our developmental efforts so that people on the ground do not suffer." New Delhi had earlier sent 1.5 million India-made vaccines to Myanmar. India is also engaged in number of connectivity projects with the country, including operationalisation of Sittwe project.

At UNHRC, India calls for release of political detainees in Myanmar

In a significant development, Indian and Saudi Armies will undertake joint bilateral exercises. This will be the first such exercises of both the Armies together.

The Indian forces contingent will be travelling to Saudi Arabia for the exercises which will be taking place in the next financial year.&nbsp;

In December of 2020, in another significant development, Indian Army Chief General MM Naravane had visited Saudi Arabia. It was the first time any Indian Army chief had visited the West Asian country in what is a clear sign of growing ties between New Delhi and Riyadh.

The Army Chief during his Saudi Visit had visited Headquarters of Royal Saudi Land Force, the Joint Force Command Headquarters and King Abdul Aziz Military Academy. Saudi Arabia identifies India as one of the Kingdom’s Strategic Partner Countries under its 'Vision 2030’.

Last few years has seen increase engagement between the 2 countries. 2019 saw visit of Indian PM Modi to the country during which Strategic Partnership Council Agreement was signed. Earlier that year in February, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman had visited New Delhi. During the visit, Riyadh announced investments targeting a value of US $ 100 billion in India.

In a significant development, Indian and Saudi Armies will undertake joint bilateral exercises. This will be the first such exercises of both the Armies together.

In a significant development, Indian and Saudi Armies will undertake joint bilateral exercises. This will be the first such exercises of both the Armies together. The Indian forces contingent will be travelling to Saudi Arabia for the exercises which will be taking place in the next financial year. In December of 2020, in another significant development, Indian Army Chief General MM Naravane had visited Saudi Arabia. It was the first time any Indian Army chief had visited the West Asian country in what is a clear sign of growing ties between New Delhi and Riyadh. The Army Chief during his Saudi Visit had visited Headquarters of Royal Saudi Land Force, the Joint Force Command Headquarters and King Abdul Aziz Military Academy. Saudi Arabia identifies India as one of the Kingdom’s Strategic Partner Countries under its 'Vision 2030’. Last few years has seen increase engagement between the 2 countries. 2019 saw visit of Indian PM Modi to the country during which Strategic Partnership Council Agreement was signed. Earlier that year in February, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman had visited New Delhi. During the visit, Riyadh announced investments targeting a value of US $ 100 billion in India.

In a first, Indian, Saudi Arabia armies to undertake joint bilateral exercises 

India's consulate in Dubai has issued an advisory to Indian nationals to avoid visiting the mission unless it is absolutely necessary and instead make use of various electronic platforms amidst a spike in COVID-19 cases in the city.

Dubai has witnessed a surge in the number of COVID-19 cases in the past weeks.

The gleaming city had faced criticism globally for reopening businesses and easing curfews to attract tourists during the peak year-end holiday season.

"Members of the Indian community who wish to visit the Consulate for any consular services are advised to avoid such visits unless absolutely necessary," the India mission said in the advisory.

"They should, instead, make use of the various electronic platforms offered by the Consulate without having to physically visit the office,"&nbsp;it said.

Being the largest expatriate community, it said, it is the responsibility of all the Indian nationals residing in the UAE to strictly comply with COVID-19 preventive measures and guidelines issued by the country's health authorities from time to time such as wearing face masks at all times, maintaining social distancing, avoiding public gatherings etc.

The Indian Consulate in Dubai provides its services to more than 2.6 million Indians living in Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah and Umm Al Quwain, the Gulf News reported.

The UAE reported 3,525 new cases of coronavirus on Thursday, bringing the total number of diagnosed cases in the country to 339,667. It has reported 974 deaths so far.&nbsp;

India's consulate in Dubai has issued an advisory to Indian nationals to avoid visiting the mission unless it is absolutely necessary and instead make use of various electronic platforms amidst a spike in COVID-19 cases in the city.

India's consulate in Dubai has issued an advisory to Indian nationals to avoid visiting the mission unless it is absolutely necessary and instead make use of various electronic platforms amidst a spike in COVID-19 cases in the city. Dubai has witnessed a surge in the number of COVID-19 cases in the past weeks. The gleaming city had faced criticism globally for reopening businesses and easing curfews to attract tourists during the peak year-end holiday season. "Members of the Indian community who wish to visit the Consulate for any consular services are advised to avoid such visits unless absolutely necessary," the India mission said in the advisory. "They should, instead, make use of the various electronic platforms offered by the Consulate without having to physically visit the office," it said. Being the largest expatriate community, it said, it is the responsibility of all the Indian nationals residing in the UAE to strictly comply with COVID-19 preventive measures and guidelines issued by the country's health authorities from time to time such as wearing face masks at all times, maintaining social distancing, avoiding public gatherings etc. The Indian Consulate in Dubai provides its services to more than 2.6 million Indians living in Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah and Umm Al Quwain, the Gulf News reported. The UAE reported 3,525 new cases of coronavirus on Thursday, bringing the total number of diagnosed cases in the country to 339,667. It has reported 974 deaths so far.

India's consulate in Dubai issues COVID-19 advisory amid surge in cases

The US has welcomed the ongoing efforts by India and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/china-only-understands-the-language-of-strength-and-india-so-knows-it-363006">China</a> to de-escalate the situation in eastern Ladakh and said it would continue to monitor the situation closely as both sides work toward a peaceful resolution.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-india-china-disengagement-all-you-need-to-know-363020/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Defence minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday announced in Parliament that India and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-standoff-china-will-move-troops-to-east-of-finger-8-says-rajnath-singh-in-parliament-over-disengagement-362787">China</a> have reached an agreement on disengagement in the north and south banks of Pangong lake in eastern Ladakh that mandates both sides to cease forward deployment of troops in a "phased, coordinated and verifiable" manner.

"We're closely following reports of initial troop disengagement. We welcome the ongoing efforts to de-escalate the situation," a State Department spokesperson said.

"We will, of course, continue to monitor the situation closely as both sides work toward a peaceful resolution," the spokesperson said while responding to a question on China and India pulling back their troops from eastern Ladakh.

Congressman Michael McCaul, lead Republican in the House Foreign Affairs Committee, also welcomed the disengagement of troops.

"It's heartening to see India stand strong in defending its sovereignty," he said in a tweet.

"The (Chinese Communist Party) CCP's constant territorial aggression, from the East and South China Seas to the waters of the Mekong, to the Himalayas, has no place in the 21st century," McCaul said.

India and China had rushed a large number of battle tanks, armoured vehicles and heavy equipment to the treacherous and high-altitude areas of eastern Ladakh region after tension escalated following a deadly clash in the Galwan Valley in June last.

Twenty Indian soldiers were killed in the fierce hand-to-hand combat on June 15 in the Galwan Valley, an incident that marked the most serious military conflicts between the two sides in decades.

China is yet to disclose the number of its soldiers killed and injured in the clash though it officially admitted to have suffered casualties. According to an American intelligence report, the number of casualties on the Chinese side was 35.

The US has welcomed the ongoing efforts by India and China to de-escalate the situation in eastern Ladakh and said it would continue to monitor the situation closely as both sides work toward a peaceful resolution.

The US has welcomed the ongoing efforts by India and China to de-escalate the situation in eastern Ladakh and said it would continue to monitor the situation closely as both sides work toward a peaceful resolution. Watch: Defence minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday announced in Parliament that India and China have reached an agreement on disengagement in the north and south banks of Pangong lake in eastern Ladakh that mandates both sides to cease forward deployment of troops in a "phased, coordinated and verifiable" manner. "We're closely following reports of initial troop disengagement. We welcome the ongoing efforts to de-escalate the situation," a State Department spokesperson said. "We will, of course, continue to monitor the situation closely as both sides work toward a peaceful resolution," the spokesperson said while responding to a question on China and India pulling back their troops from eastern Ladakh. Congressman Michael McCaul, lead Republican in the House Foreign Affairs Committee, also welcomed the disengagement of troops. "It's heartening to see India stand strong in defending its sovereignty," he said in a tweet. "The (Chinese Communist Party) CCP's constant territorial aggression, from the East and South China Seas to the waters of the Mekong, to the Himalayas, has no place in the 21st century," McCaul said. India and China had rushed a large number of battle tanks, armoured vehicles and heavy equipment to the treacherous and high-altitude areas of eastern Ladakh region after tension escalated following a deadly clash in the Galwan Valley in June last. Twenty Indian soldiers were killed in the fierce hand-to-hand combat on June 15 in the Galwan Valley, an incident that marked the most serious military conflicts between the two sides in decades. China is yet to disclose the number of its soldiers killed and injured in the clash though it officially admitted to have suffered casualties. According to an American intelligence report, the number of casualties on the Chinese side was 35.

Closely following reports of initial troop disengagement, says US on India-China standoff

India's exports of the COVID-19 vaccine stood at around Rs 338 crore till February 8, Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said in the Rajya Sabha on Friday.

The exports include grant of the vaccine doses to friendly countries and commercial shipments. Replying to supplementary questions in the House, Goyal said exports of the vaccine started in January.

India is taking care of the domestic vaccine requirement first and based on that "giving vaccines to friendly countries," he said.

"Total export is about Rs 338 crore worth of COVID vaccine," the minister said.

Giving details, Goyal said the export of Covishield vaccine manufactured by the Serum Insitute of India, Pune as Government of India grant stood at 62.7 lakh doses with FoB (free on board) value of about Rs 125.4 crore.

Paid exports of 1.05 crore doses were valued at about Rs 213.32 crore.

Goyal said the government has granted permission to the Serum Institute and Bharat Biotech International Limited, Hyderabad for manufacture of COVID-19 vaccines.

Close coordination is being maintained through regular interaction between relevant departments of the Government of India and vaccine manufacturers to ensure adequate availability of COVID-19 vaccines for the national vaccination program, he added.

The minister further said the health ministry is working along with all states, and the Prime Minister is also interacting with all states. Highest priority for vaccination has been given to healthcare and frontline workers by the government, Goyal said.&nbsp;

India's exports of the COVID-19 vaccine stood at around Rs 338 crore till February 8, Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said in the Rajya Sabha on Friday.

India's exports of the COVID-19 vaccine stood at around Rs 338 crore till February 8, Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said in the Rajya Sabha on Friday. The exports include grant of the vaccine doses to friendly countries and commercial shipments. Replying to supplementary questions in the House, Goyal said exports of the vaccine started in January. India is taking care of the domestic vaccine requirement first and based on that "giving vaccines to friendly countries," he said. "Total export is about Rs 338 crore worth of COVID vaccine," the minister said. Giving details, Goyal said the export of Covishield vaccine manufactured by the Serum Insitute of India, Pune as Government of India grant stood at 62.7 lakh doses with FoB (free on board) value of about Rs 125.4 crore. Paid exports of 1.05 crore doses were valued at about Rs 213.32 crore. Goyal said the government has granted permission to the Serum Institute and Bharat Biotech International Limited, Hyderabad for manufacture of COVID-19 vaccines. Close coordination is being maintained through regular interaction between relevant departments of the Government of India and vaccine manufacturers to ensure adequate availability of COVID-19 vaccines for the national vaccination program, he added. The minister further said the health ministry is working along with all states, and the Prime Minister is also interacting with all states. Highest priority for vaccination has been given to healthcare and frontline workers by the government, Goyal said.

India has exported vaccines worth Rs 338 crore: Government declares in Parliament

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