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The Punjab and Haryana High Court has held that a Muslim girl who is less than 18 years old but has attained puberty is free to marry anyone as per the Muslim Personal Law.

A bench of Justice Alka Sarin gave the verdict relying on various court rulings and the article 195 in 'Principles of Mohammedan Law', an authoritative textbook by prominent Muslim personal law jurist Sir Dinshah Fardunji Mulla.

Quoting provisions of article 195 in Mulla's authoritative treatise on Muslim personal laws, the bench observed that a Muslim girl on attaining the age of puberty was competent to enter into a contract of marriage with a person of her choice.

Article 195 in the book explains the capacity (eligibility) for marriage under the Muslim Personal Law, the bench pointed out, adding that as per this provision, every Mohammedan (Muslim) of sound mind, who has attained puberty, may enter into a contract of marriage.

According to law the minimum age for marriage — is 18 years for girls and 21 for boys. This is laid down in two separate acts of the Indian parliament.

One, the special marriage act of 1954.

Second and the prohibition of child marriage act of 2006.

How then did the court recognise this marriage of a 17 year old?

Because it gave primacy to personal laws, the Muslim personal law says maturity and puberty are one and the same. So if a person has attained puberty — they are free to marry.

This puts the age of marriage at around 15 years. It's as if the last 150 years of social reforms never happened.

This is not an argument against personal laws in India. Though it's high time the country had a uniform civil code. But that's for the Parliament and the people of India to decide together.

But when courts uphold personal laws — at the expense of children's rights — questions must be asked.

Are the laws in tune with modern times? Are the Court's interpreting them with a progressive mindset? Most of the laws that we live by were framed decades back.

Times have changed, what was considered normal in the past -- is probably a crime today.

So the laws must keep up. Which means the lawmakers must keep up. Unfortunately -- in most cases -- they don't.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Punjab and Haryana High Court has held that a Muslim girl who is less than 18 years old but has attained puberty is free to marry anyone as per the Muslim Personal Law.

The Punjab and Haryana High Court has held that a Muslim girl who is less than 18 years old but has attained puberty is free to marry anyone as per the Muslim Personal Law. A bench of Justice Alka Sarin gave the verdict relying on various court rulings and the article 195 in 'Principles of Mohammedan Law', an authoritative textbook by prominent Muslim personal law jurist Sir Dinshah Fardunji Mulla. Quoting provisions of article 195 in Mulla's authoritative treatise on Muslim personal laws, the bench observed that a Muslim girl on attaining the age of puberty was competent to enter into a contract of marriage with a person of her choice. Article 195 in the book explains the capacity (eligibility) for marriage under the Muslim Personal Law, the bench pointed out, adding that as per this provision, every Mohammedan (Muslim) of sound mind, who has attained puberty, may enter into a contract of marriage. According to law the minimum age for marriage — is 18 years for girls and 21 for boys. This is laid down in two separate acts of the Indian parliament. One, the special marriage act of 1954. Second and the prohibition of child marriage act of 2006. How then did the court recognise this marriage of a 17 year old? Because it gave primacy to personal laws, the Muslim personal law says maturity and puberty are one and the same. So if a person has attained puberty — they are free to marry. This puts the age of marriage at around 15 years. It's as if the last 150 years of social reforms never happened. This is not an argument against personal laws in India. Though it's high time the country had a uniform civil code. But that's for the Parliament and the people of India to decide together. But when courts uphold personal laws — at the expense of children's rights — questions must be asked. Are the laws in tune with modern times? Are the Court's interpreting them with a progressive mindset? Most of the laws that we live by were framed decades back. Times have changed, what was considered normal in the past -- is probably a crime today. So the laws must keep up. Which means the lawmakers must keep up. Unfortunately -- in most cases -- they don't. (With inputs from agencies)

On attaining puberty, Muslim girl can marry anyone: Why legal system needs a reality check

Two things are absolutely clear -- India has not succumbed to Chinese threats, and China only understands the language of strength.

The border provocation in Galwan was perhaps the most serious military challenge that India has faced in decades. It was unprecedented -- in terms of its scale, planning and intent.

As many as 20 indian soldiers were killed in action. And the Chinese were fully prepared for further escalation.

The pandemic had dented Beijing's image, and Xi Jinping was on a shaky wicket. He desperately needed a geopolitical maneuver to bolster his image.

But he underestimated India's strength and resolve. In the past, India acquiesced to China.

But now, India stands its ground. From Doklam in 2017 to Ladakh in 2020, India has refused to appease China -- unlike its other smaller neighbours.

India has made specific pre-conditions for normalising ties, and used the same policy it has used on Pakistan for decades.

If talks and terror can't go hand in hand, neither can border aggression and business.

On the military front, India ensured it won't be caught off guard again.

From Galwan to Spanggur to Depsang, India ramped up its defences, activated its entire logistics network, matched China's military deployments, and secured its frontiers.

By October, 40,000 Indian troops were braving the freezing temperatures in eastern Ladakh.

To add to that, India ensured that the special frontier force spearheaded the operation, a force which had Tibetans fighting for India.

Thousands of Tibetans have made India their home since the Dalai Lama was forced into exile.

India hit China where it hurt the most. Then we come to the economic front.

India weaponised its market, curbed the flow of Chinese cash in the Indian economy. It started by amending its FDI policy to curb opportunistic takeovers.

In 2019, the fund inflows from Chinese companies in India was 229 million dollars.

By September, 2020, it had declined by 28.48 per cent to 163 million dollars.

India carried out what's been called a digital strike. It banned Chinese apps -- a move that reduced China's influence on the internet economy.

Last we checked, India had banned at least 200 Chinese apps. This provided a model for other countries to do the same - America and Japan for instance.

Then, India extended anti-dumping duty on a range of products from China. Mostly on anti-bacterial drugs and Chinese steel.

This impacted the price of Chinese products coming to India, and adversely affected profits for Chinese manufacturers.

India also challenged China's Pharma supremacy, and began nursing the world -- from Afghanistan to Egypt; from South Africa to Brazil.

An array of countries received the 'Made in India' vaccine -- as a result of which, the Chinese state media was so rattled that it began accusing India of smearing its efforts.

India's vaccine diplomacy clearly outfoxed China's wolf warrior diplomacy.

India also strengthened its security co-operation, primarily through the Quad -- the quadrilateral security dialogue -- a strategic alliance between the US, Japan, Australia and India.

This is to counter China's aggressive military expansionism.

The group is set to meet soon.

India also held multiple important naval exercises with an eye on China.

China President Xi Jinping hoped that he could simply wear India down.

But India outsmarted and isolated China on all fronts -- militarily, economically, and diplomatically. It understood the gap between China's words and actions and kept the pressure on for full disengagement.

Simply put, India called China's bluff, and dealt with Beijing in the only language it understands -- the language of strength.

Two things are absolutely clear -- India has not succumbed to Chinese threats, and China only understands the language of strength. The border provocation in Galwan was perhaps the most serious military challenge that India has faced in decades.

Two things are absolutely clear -- India has not succumbed to Chinese threats, and China only understands the language of strength. The border provocation in Galwan was perhaps the most serious military challenge that India has faced in decades. It was unprecedented -- in terms of its scale, planning and intent. As many as 20 indian soldiers were killed in action. And the Chinese were fully prepared for further escalation. The pandemic had dented Beijing's image, and Xi Jinping was on a shaky wicket. He desperately needed a geopolitical maneuver to bolster his image. But he underestimated India's strength and resolve. In the past, India acquiesced to China. But now, India stands its ground. From Doklam in 2017 to Ladakh in 2020, India has refused to appease China -- unlike its other smaller neighbours. India has made specific pre-conditions for normalising ties, and used the same policy it has used on Pakistan for decades. If talks and terror can't go hand in hand, neither can border aggression and business. On the military front, India ensured it won't be caught off guard again. From Galwan to Spanggur to Depsang, India ramped up its defences, activated its entire logistics network, matched China's military deployments, and secured its frontiers. By October, 40,000 Indian troops were braving the freezing temperatures in eastern Ladakh. To add to that, India ensured that the special frontier force spearheaded the operation, a force which had Tibetans fighting for India. Thousands of Tibetans have made India their home since the Dalai Lama was forced into exile. India hit China where it hurt the most. Then we come to the economic front. India weaponised its market, curbed the flow of Chinese cash in the Indian economy. It started by amending its FDI policy to curb opportunistic takeovers. In 2019, the fund inflows from Chinese companies in India was 229 million dollars. By September, 2020, it had declined by 28.48 per cent to 163 million dollars. India carried out what's been called a digital strike. It banned Chinese apps -- a move that reduced China's influence on the internet economy. Last we checked, India had banned at least 200 Chinese apps. This provided a model for other countries to do the same - America and Japan for instance. Then, India extended anti-dumping duty on a range of products from China. Mostly on anti-bacterial drugs and Chinese steel. This impacted the price of Chinese products coming to India, and adversely affected profits for Chinese manufacturers. India also challenged China's Pharma supremacy, and began nursing the world -- from Afghanistan to Egypt; from South Africa to Brazil. An array of countries received the 'Made in India' vaccine -- as a result of which, the Chinese state media was so rattled that it began accusing India of smearing its efforts. India's vaccine diplomacy clearly outfoxed China's wolf warrior diplomacy. India also strengthened its security co-operation, primarily through the Quad -- the quadrilateral security dialogue -- a strategic alliance between the US, Japan, Australia and India. This is to counter China's aggressive military expansionism. The group is set to meet soon. India also held multiple important naval exercises with an eye on China. China President Xi Jinping hoped that he could simply wear India down. But India outsmarted and isolated China on all fronts -- militarily, economically, and diplomatically. It understood the gap between China's words and actions and kept the pressure on for full disengagement. Simply put, India called China's bluff, and dealt with Beijing in the only language it understands -- the language of strength.

China only understands the language of strength. And India so knows it

India's former Ambassador to China Gautam Bambawale expresses uncertainty over the positive disengagement by the Chinese troops at LAC. He says 'Based on the past incidents with China, it becomes very difficult to put faith in the intentions behind the disengagement'.

'We will judge Chinese by their actions not by word' says India's Ex-envoy to China Gautam Bambawale

Owing to ensuring physical distancing and Covid-19 safety norms there would be 25,000 additional polling booths in Tamil Nadu and the voting time will be extended by an hour. This means that the total voting booths would go up from over 68,000 to 93,000. The announcement to this effect was made by Chief Election Commissioner Sunil Arora, during his two-day visit, along with a team of election officials to review poll preparedness in the state.&nbsp;

He emphasized that efforts would be taken to ensure inducement-free and Covid-19-safe elections. The parliamentary by-poll to Kanyakumari constituency is also to be held along with the Assembly elections to 234 seats.

Regarding requests to hold the election in the last week of April, the CEC said that many political parties had asked for the same due to exams, intense summer and festivals among others. The CEC added that all sensitivities would be taken into consideration before announcing the election dates.&nbsp;

When asked about the effectiveness about election commission's actions against malpractices, the CEC replied that it was on display when the Vellore Lok Sabha poll was rescinded and the R K Nagar by poll was rescinded twice.&nbsp;

It was also added that the two special expenditure observers and district level observers would be deputed for Tamil Nadu.&nbsp;

However, the CEC also expressed unhappiness over the functioning of the state excise department which had not adequately cracked down on malpractices and only caught the small culprits, while the big fish were spared. He said that a report on this was sought from the Additional Chief Secretary, Home who also looks after finance dept.&nbsp;

The CEC added that he had met and discussed with several officials regarding the smooth conduct of polls in the Southern state.

Owing to ensuring physical distancing and Covid-19 safety norms there would be 25,000 additional polling booths in Tamil Nadu and the voting time will be extended by an hour.

Owing to ensuring physical distancing and Covid-19 safety norms there would be 25,000 additional polling booths in Tamil Nadu and the voting time will be extended by an hour. This means that the total voting booths would go up from over 68,000 to 93,000. The announcement to this effect was made by Chief Election Commissioner Sunil Arora, during his two-day visit, along with a team of election officials to review poll preparedness in the state. He emphasized that efforts would be taken to ensure inducement-free and Covid-19-safe elections. The parliamentary by-poll to Kanyakumari constituency is also to be held along with the Assembly elections to 234 seats. Regarding requests to hold the election in the last week of April, the CEC said that many political parties had asked for the same due to exams, intense summer and festivals among others. The CEC added that all sensitivities would be taken into consideration before announcing the election dates. When asked about the effectiveness about election commission's actions against malpractices, the CEC replied that it was on display when the Vellore Lok Sabha poll was rescinded and the R K Nagar by poll was rescinded twice. It was also added that the two special expenditure observers and district level observers would be deputed for Tamil Nadu. However, the CEC also expressed unhappiness over the functioning of the state excise department which had not adequately cracked down on malpractices and only caught the small culprits, while the big fish were spared. He said that a report on this was sought from the Additional Chief Secretary, Home who also looks after finance dept. The CEC added that he had met and discussed with several officials regarding the smooth conduct of polls in the Southern state.

25,000 extra booths, voting time extended by an hour for Tamil Nadu elections, says CEC

India's foreign secretary Harsh Shringla will be visiting Russia next week. The visit will be for a couple of days and will see a number of bilateral meetings. The visit comes even as both sides have been engaged at multiple levels, from cooperation against covid pandemic to defense.&nbsp;

The visit, in the works for some time, will be the first foreign visit of the top Indian diplomat this year. The focus will be on the India-Russia annual summit this year, with Russian President Vladimir Putin's India visit. Russia and India have an annual bilateral summit level mechanism that alternates between the 2 countries. PM Modi had visited Russia's Vladivostok in 2019 for the summit, while 2018 saw the visit of President Putin visiting Delhi for the annual summit. Last year, the summit could not take place due to the covid pandemic. Russia and Japan are the only 2 countries with which India has this mechanism.&nbsp;

A multilateral focus will also be there since India and Russia are part of the BRICS and New Delhi being the chair of the grouping this year. &nbsp;Last year saw India's defense minister visiting Moscow 2 times, first for the 75th anniversary of victory day and then for the Shanghai cooperation organization or SCO defense minister. The Indian external affairs minister Dr. S Jaishankar visited the country too for the SCO FMs meet.

Russia will be delivering the S400 missile system by the end of this year, in what will be a significant defense-related development between New Delhi and Moscow. The $5 billion deal was signed in October 2018 by both countries. While this is the first visit of FS this year, last year saw him traveling to Bangladesh, Myanmar, Maldives, Nepal, France, Germany, and UK amid the covid pandemic.

India's foreign secretary Harsh Shringla will be visiting Russia next week. The visit will be for a couple of days and will see a number of bilateral meetings. The visit comes even as both sides have been engaged at multiple levels, from cooperation against covid pandemic to defense.

India's foreign secretary Harsh Shringla will be visiting Russia next week. The visit will be for a couple of days and will see a number of bilateral meetings. The visit comes even as both sides have been engaged at multiple levels, from cooperation against covid pandemic to defense. The visit, in the works for some time, will be the first foreign visit of the top Indian diplomat this year. The focus will be on the India-Russia annual summit this year, with Russian President Vladimir Putin's India visit. Russia and India have an annual bilateral summit level mechanism that alternates between the 2 countries. PM Modi had visited Russia's Vladivostok in 2019 for the summit, while 2018 saw the visit of President Putin visiting Delhi for the annual summit. Last year, the summit could not take place due to the covid pandemic. Russia and Japan are the only 2 countries with which India has this mechanism. A multilateral focus will also be there since India and Russia are part of the BRICS and New Delhi being the chair of the grouping this year. Last year saw India's defense minister visiting Moscow 2 times, first for the 75th anniversary of victory day and then for the Shanghai cooperation organization or SCO defense minister. The Indian external affairs minister Dr. S Jaishankar visited the country too for the SCO FMs meet. Russia will be delivering the S400 missile system by the end of this year, in what will be a significant defense-related development between New Delhi and Moscow. The $5 billion deal was signed in October 2018 by both countries. While this is the first visit of FS this year, last year saw him traveling to Bangladesh, Myanmar, Maldives, Nepal, France, Germany, and UK amid the covid pandemic.

India's foreign secretary Harsh Shringla to visit Russia next week

Indian IT Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad slams twitter from the Rajya Sabha ( Upper House of Parliament) today. He says that the Indian govt respects the power of social media but can't accept the double standards. 'Do Business, make money but you have to follow and respect the Indian laws', he added.

'Different standards for Capitol hill and R-Day violence', India's IT Minister takes on Twitter

The first-ever ASEAN-India Hackathon was held from February 1st to 4th and saw the participation of 330 students and 110 mentors from 10 ASEAN countries and India.&nbsp;

Coming together online as 55 teams, they came up with innovative solutions to 11 problems as part of the hackathon which was announced by PM Modi at the 16th ASEAN India summit in Bangkok in November of 2019.&nbsp;

The hackathon was organized jointly by the Ministry of external affairs and India's education ministry.

The themes of the hackathon were 'Blue Economy' and 'Education', which was lauded by EAM Dr S Jaishankar.&nbsp;

He said, "Weaving together of two priority areas of cooperation into problem statements provides added relevance to this Hackathon. India has identified cooperation in the maritime domain as a priority under the ASEAN-India Strategic Partnership."&nbsp;

On Education, Jaishankar said, it is "a central element of our Strategic Partnership with ASEAN recognizing the role it plays in effectively and constructively channelizing the energy of our youth."

The Hackathon is Key to the larger ASEAN-India strategic partnership and forms part of other youth-centric initiatives like Special Courses for Young ASEAN Diplomats, Exchange Programmes for Young Farmers', Media Exchange Programmes, Programmes for Young Parliamentarians.

In fact, India's education minister Dr Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ said that the "Hackathon is well aligned with the vision of ASEAN - plan of action on science, technology and innovation (APASTI) 2016-2025”.

Senior Ministers from Brunei, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Cambodia, Lao PDR and Vietnam were present in the concluding ceremony of the event.&nbsp;

There are other India-ASEAN programmes to increase the people-to-people engagement, which includes New Delhi providing 1000 ASEAN PhD fellowships exclusively for ASEAN Nationals at IITs with a budget outlay of $45 million.

The first-ever ASEAN-India Hackathon was held from February 1st to 4th and saw the participation of 330 students and 110 mentors from 10 ASEAN countries and India.

The first-ever ASEAN-India Hackathon was held from February 1st to 4th and saw the participation of 330 students and 110 mentors from 10 ASEAN countries and India. Coming together online as 55 teams, they came up with innovative solutions to 11 problems as part of the hackathon which was announced by PM Modi at the 16th ASEAN India summit in Bangkok in November of 2019. The hackathon was organized jointly by the Ministry of external affairs and India's education ministry. The themes of the hackathon were 'Blue Economy' and 'Education', which was lauded by EAM Dr S Jaishankar. He said, "Weaving together of two priority areas of cooperation into problem statements provides added relevance to this Hackathon. India has identified cooperation in the maritime domain as a priority under the ASEAN-India Strategic Partnership." On Education, Jaishankar said, it is "a central element of our Strategic Partnership with ASEAN recognizing the role it plays in effectively and constructively channelizing the energy of our youth." The Hackathon is Key to the larger ASEAN-India strategic partnership and forms part of other youth-centric initiatives like Special Courses for Young ASEAN Diplomats, Exchange Programmes for Young Farmers', Media Exchange Programmes, Programmes for Young Parliamentarians. In fact, India's education minister Dr Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ said that the "Hackathon is well aligned with the vision of ASEAN - plan of action on science, technology and innovation (APASTI) 2016-2025”. Senior Ministers from Brunei, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Cambodia, Lao PDR and Vietnam were present in the concluding ceremony of the event. There are other India-ASEAN programmes to increase the people-to-people engagement, which includes New Delhi providing 1000 ASEAN PhD fellowships exclusively for ASEAN Nationals at IITs with a budget outlay of $45 million.

India, ASEAN increase people to people engagement with 1st ever Hackathon

During a conversation with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, PM Narendra Modi assured him of coronavirus vaccine supplies. India has already sent vaccines to around 20 countries. It has got requests from developing as well as developed nations.

A readout from Indian PM's office said during the talks Prime Minister Trudeau informed PM Modi about "Canada's requirements of COVID-19 vaccines from India" to which the latter "assured...that India would do its best to support Canada's vaccination efforts, just as it had done for many other countries already"

The readout said Canadian leader lauded New Delhi saying, "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."

The vaccines will be supplied commercially from India to Canada. India has already supplied vaccines on a commercial basis to countries like Brazil, Morrocco, South Africa.&nbsp;

During the talks, India and Canada discussed issues such as the economic impact of the pandemic, climate change.

The talks assume significance since ties between the two countries were impacted in December after Canadian PM commented on the farmer protests in India.&nbsp;

Back then, an angry New Delhi had summoned the Canadian envoy to Delhi Nadir Patel and handed over a strong demarche. In fact, the matter was taken up with Canadian authorities both in Ottawa and New Delhi and conveyed that such comments pertaining to the internal affairs of India are "unwarranted and unacceptable".

During a conversation with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, PM Narendra Modi assured him of coronavirus vaccine supplies. India has already sent vaccines to around 20 countries.

During a conversation with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, PM Narendra Modi assured him of coronavirus vaccine supplies. India has already sent vaccines to around 20 countries. It has got requests from developing as well as developed nations. A readout from Indian PM's office said during the talks Prime Minister Trudeau informed PM Modi about "Canada's requirements of COVID-19 vaccines from India" to which the latter "assured...that India would do its best to support Canada's vaccination efforts, just as it had done for many other countries already" The readout said Canadian leader lauded New Delhi saying, "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." The vaccines will be supplied commercially from India to Canada. India has already supplied vaccines on a commercial basis to countries like Brazil, Morrocco, South Africa. During the talks, India and Canada discussed issues such as the economic impact of the pandemic, climate change. The talks assume significance since ties between the two countries were impacted in December after Canadian PM commented on the farmer protests in India. Back then, an angry New Delhi had summoned the Canadian envoy to Delhi Nadir Patel and handed over a strong demarche. In fact, the matter was taken up with Canadian authorities both in Ottawa and New Delhi and conveyed that such comments pertaining to the internal affairs of India are "unwarranted and unacceptable".

PM Modi assures Canada's Trudeau of COVID vaccine supplies

India-China Border Standoff: The Indian army has released the video of the disengagement process at the Ladakh border. Addressing the Indian parliament today the Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has said that India and China have started the process of disengagement along the line of actual control.

Defence minister Rajnath Singh says, 'India-China have started the process of disengagement'

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday (February 11) gave keys details regarding the disengagement agreement between India and China, in the Rajya Sabha. The agreement comes in the backdrop of the India-China standoff that started in April/May of 2020 that saw the death of 20 Indian soldiers in the Galwan Valley due to aggressive actions by Chinese forces, the first such development at the Line of Actual Control (LAC) since 1975. The Chinese Defence Ministry had made the announcement on the same on Wednesday (February 10).&nbsp;

Here are the key details spelt out by the Defence Minister:

1) Agreement for disengagement is for "North and South Bank" of the Pangong Lake. Pangong Lake is one of the sites of the stand-off, with the north bank having eight "fingers" or geographical formations with mountains spurs jutting into the lake, and the main point of contention for New Delhi.

2) Disengagement will be "mutual and reciprocal".

3) The implementation of this agreement started on Wednesday in the North and South Bank of the Pangong Lake. The tanks have started to move, and next up will the movement of soldiers.

4) Both sides will cease their "forward deployments" in the area. The process will take place in a "phased, coordinated and verified manner".

5) The most crucial point and one that forms the core of the development is -- The Chinese side will keep its troop presence in the North Bank area to the east of Finger 8. India, reciprocally, will base its troops at the permanent base -- Dhan Singh Thapa Post near Finger 3.

6) A similar action would be taken in the South Bank area by both sides. No details are known yet on how this will happen, in terms of movements of troops.

7) Any structures that had been built by both sides since April 2020 in both North and South Bank area will be removed and the landforms will be restored. April 2020 is the month that saw China amassing its troops and trying to unilaterally change the situation.

8) Both sides have agreed on a "temporary moratorium on military activities" by both sides in the North Bank of the lake. This includes a moratorium on patrolling to the traditional areas. Patrolling will be resumed only after both sides reach an agreement during further rounds of diplomatic and military talks.

9) Once "complete disengagement" has happened at Pangong Lake, Senior Commanders of both sides will meet within 48 hours. So far nine rounds of &nbsp;Senior Commanders meet or military talks have taken place, the last one being in January of this year.

10) &nbsp;New Delhi's message to China, by the Defence Minister from Parliament is, "By now, the Chinese side is also fully aware of our resolve. It is therefore our expectation that the Chinese side will work with us in full sincerity to resolve these remaining issues." He highlighted, " I want to assure this House that in these talks we have not conceded anything."

What next?

Some issue still remains. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said, "there are still some outstanding issues with regard to deployment and patrolling" at some points along the LAC in Eastern Ladakh. They will be discussed during future India-China talks at the military and diplomatic level.

India is the Chair of the BRICS grouping this year. India is expected to hold a summit, the annual BRICS summit. If the summit happens physically then Chinese President Xi Jinping will be visiting India.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday (February 11) gave keys details regarding the disengagement agreement between India and China, in the Rajya Sabha. The agreement comes in the backdrop of the India-China standoff that started in April/May of 2020 that saw the death of 20 Indian soldiers in the Galwan Valley due to aggressive actions by Chinese forces, the first such development at the Line of Actual Control (LAC) since 1975.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday (February 11) gave keys details regarding the disengagement agreement between India and China, in the Rajya Sabha. The agreement comes in the backdrop of the India-China standoff that started in April/May of 2020 that saw the death of 20 Indian soldiers in the Galwan Valley due to aggressive actions by Chinese forces, the first such development at the Line of Actual Control (LAC) since 1975. The Chinese Defence Ministry had made the announcement on the same on Wednesday (February 10). Here are the key details spelt out by the Defence Minister: 1) Agreement for disengagement is for "North and South Bank" of the Pangong Lake. Pangong Lake is one of the sites of the stand-off, with the north bank having eight "fingers" or geographical formations with mountains spurs jutting into the lake, and the main point of contention for New Delhi. 2) Disengagement will be "mutual and reciprocal". 3) The implementation of this agreement started on Wednesday in the North and South Bank of the Pangong Lake. The tanks have started to move, and next up will the movement of soldiers. 4) Both sides will cease their "forward deployments" in the area. The process will take place in a "phased, coordinated and verified manner". 5) The most crucial point and one that forms the core of the development is -- The Chinese side will keep its troop presence in the North Bank area to the east of Finger 8. India, reciprocally, will base its troops at the permanent base -- Dhan Singh Thapa Post near Finger 3. 6) A similar action would be taken in the South Bank area by both sides. No details are known yet on how this will happen, in terms of movements of troops. 7) Any structures that had been built by both sides since April 2020 in both North and South Bank area will be removed and the landforms will be restored. April 2020 is the month that saw China amassing its troops and trying to unilaterally change the situation. 8) Both sides have agreed on a "temporary moratorium on military activities" by both sides in the North Bank of the lake. This includes a moratorium on patrolling to the traditional areas. Patrolling will be resumed only after both sides reach an agreement during further rounds of diplomatic and military talks. 9) Once "complete disengagement" has happened at Pangong Lake, Senior Commanders of both sides will meet within 48 hours. So far nine rounds of Senior Commanders meet or military talks have taken place, the last one being in January of this year. 10) New Delhi's message to China, by the Defence Minister from Parliament is, "By now, the Chinese side is also fully aware of our resolve. It is therefore our expectation that the Chinese side will work with us in full sincerity to resolve these remaining issues." He highlighted, " I want to assure this House that in these talks we have not conceded anything." What next? Some issue still remains. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said, "there are still some outstanding issues with regard to deployment and patrolling" at some points along the LAC in Eastern Ladakh. They will be discussed during future India-China talks at the military and diplomatic level. India is the Chair of the BRICS grouping this year. India is expected to hold a summit, the annual BRICS summit. If the summit happens physically then Chinese President Xi Jinping will be visiting India.

India-China border disengagement: 10 key points of agreement

A day after China said it was pulling back troops from the Line of Actual Control (LAC), Tanks and infantry combat vehicles of India and China started disengaging from both the banks of Pangong lake as part of the disengagement process between the two countries.

Sources said under the first phase of disengagement, the tanks of India are being moved back towards Nyoma and adjoining areas while the Chinese are taking them back beyond Sirijap and Moldo garrison.

"The movement related to disengagement of tanks and infantry combat vehicles from forward positions to rear locations started last evening itself. The disengagement from the two banks of the Pangong lake is aimed to be completed within seven days," a source said.

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Watch: First video of disengagement between Indian &amp; Chinese forces in South of Pangong Lake. <a href="https://t.co/XW7fGseto2">pic.twitter.com/XW7fGseto2</a>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1359822687275610115?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 11, 2021</a></blockquote>
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After the first phase of disengagement is completed, the two sides would start discussing the other friction points including the Patrolling Point-17 and PP-15, they said.

Earlier in the day, India's defence minister Rajnath Singh speaking in Parliament asserted that, "Chinese transgression was answered in an appropriate manner by Indian forces." 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/india-china-standoff-why-area-along-pangong-lake-became-a-flash-point-362844">In Pics:&nbsp;Why area along Pangong lake became a flashpoint</a>

India's defence minister said disengagement with China has been agreed and both sides will reduce military activity. Rajnath Singh told Parliament that China will move its troops to the east of Finger 8 at the north bank of Pangong Lake and India will move towards Finger 3 to the administrative camp.

"China in April-May 2020 had increased the number of troops at LAC," India's defence minister told India's upper House of Parliament, adding, "our forces have defended LAC bravely."

"We've begun talks over north-south bank of Pangong Lake. Some issues over deployment at LAC are yet to be resolved, both sides have agreed that complete disengagement be done at the earliest," he said.&nbsp;

"Indian soldiers gave a befitting reply on the China border," Rajnath Singh said.

"India has always reiterated to China that bilateral issues can succeed only through efforts by both nations and border issues can only be resolved through dialogue," India's defence minister said, adding,"our security forces have proved that they are ready to face any challenge to protect the sovereignty of the country."

"We will not give one inch of land to anyone," Rajnath Singh said. &nbsp;India's defence minister said that disengagement along the LAC will bring peace.

(With inputs from agencies)

A day after China said it was pulling back troops from the Line of Actual Control (LAC), Tanks and infantry combat vehicles of India and China started disengaging from both the banks of Pangong lake as part of the disengagement process between the two countries.

A day after China said it was pulling back troops from the Line of Actual Control (LAC), Tanks and infantry combat vehicles of India and China started disengaging from both the banks of Pangong lake as part of the disengagement process between the two countries. Sources said under the first phase of disengagement, the tanks of India are being moved back towards Nyoma and adjoining areas while the Chinese are taking them back beyond Sirijap and Moldo garrison. "The movement related to disengagement of tanks and infantry combat vehicles from forward positions to rear locations started last evening itself. The disengagement from the two banks of the Pangong lake is aimed to be completed within seven days," a source said. Watch: First video of disengagement between Indian & Chinese forces in South of Pangong Lake. pic.twitter.com/XW7fGseto2 — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) February 11, 2021 × After the first phase of disengagement is completed, the two sides would start discussing the other friction points including the Patrolling Point-17 and PP-15, they said. Earlier in the day, India's defence minister Rajnath Singh speaking in Parliament asserted that, "Chinese transgression was answered in an appropriate manner by Indian forces." In Pics: Why area along Pangong lake became a flashpoint India's defence minister said disengagement with China has been agreed and both sides will reduce military activity. Rajnath Singh told Parliament that China will move its troops to the east of Finger 8 at the north bank of Pangong Lake and India will move towards Finger 3 to the administrative camp. "China in April-May 2020 had increased the number of troops at LAC," India's defence minister told India's upper House of Parliament, adding, "our forces have defended LAC bravely." "We've begun talks over north-south bank of Pangong Lake. Some issues over deployment at LAC are yet to be resolved, both sides have agreed that complete disengagement be done at the earliest," he said. "Indian soldiers gave a befitting reply on the China border," Rajnath Singh said. "India has always reiterated to China that bilateral issues can succeed only through efforts by both nations and border issues can only be resolved through dialogue," India's defence minister said, adding,"our security forces have proved that they are ready to face any challenge to protect the sovereignty of the country." "We will not give one inch of land to anyone," Rajnath Singh said. India's defence minister said that disengagement along the LAC will bring peace. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: India-China disengagement begins as tanks, combat vehicles move back

The Indian rupee ended 3 paise lower at 72.87 against the US dollar on Thursday amid a firm trend in the domestic equity markets.&nbsp;

At the interbank forex market, the local unit opened at 72.81 against the greenback and witnessed an intra-day high of 72.65 and a low of 72.87.&nbsp;

It finally ended at 72.87 against the American currency, registering a fall of 3 paise over its previous close.&nbsp;

On Wednesday, the rupee had finished at 72.84. The dollar index, which gauges the greenback's strength against a basket of six currencies, inched up 0.02 per cent to 90.38.&nbsp;

On the domestic equity market front, the BSE Sensex ended 222.13 points or 0.43 per cent higher at its all-time high of 51,531.52.&nbsp;

Similarly, the broader NSE Nifty advanced 66.80 points or 0.44 per cent to a record 15,173.30. Foreign institutional investors remained net buyers in the capital market as they purchased shares worth Rs 1,786.97 crore on Wednesday, according to exchange data.&nbsp;

Brent crude futures, the global oil benchmark, fell 0.70 per cent to USD 61.04 per barrel.&nbsp;

"The Indian Rupee ended flat against the US dollar, as possible intervention from RBI offset the impact of foreign flows in local equities," said Sriram Iyer, Senior Research Analyst at Reliance Securities.&nbsp;

The local unit had strengthened earlier in the session amid equity purchases by foreign investors which continued to remain buoyant over the last three months, Iyer said. The next trigger for the market could be the CPI and IIP data due on Friday, traders said.&nbsp;

"On the domestic front, market participants will be keeping an eye on inflation and industrial production number and better-than-estimates number could extend gains for the currency. "Today, volatility for the dollar could remain low as no major economic data is expected to be released from the US," said Gaurang Somaiyaa, Forex &amp; Bullion Analyst, Motilal Oswal Financial Services. Somaiyaa further added that "we expect the USD-INR (Spot) to quote sideways with a lower bias and in the range of 72.70 and 73.25."

The Indian rupee ended 3 paise lower at 72.87 against the US dollar on Thursday amid a firm trend in the domestic equity markets. At the interbank forex market, the local unit opened at 72.

The Indian rupee ended 3 paise lower at 72.87 against the US dollar on Thursday amid a firm trend in the domestic equity markets. At the interbank forex market, the local unit opened at 72.81 against the greenback and witnessed an intra-day high of 72.65 and a low of 72.87. It finally ended at 72.87 against the American currency, registering a fall of 3 paise over its previous close. On Wednesday, the rupee had finished at 72.84. The dollar index, which gauges the greenback's strength against a basket of six currencies, inched up 0.02 per cent to 90.38. On the domestic equity market front, the BSE Sensex ended 222.13 points or 0.43 per cent higher at its all-time high of 51,531.52. Similarly, the broader NSE Nifty advanced 66.80 points or 0.44 per cent to a record 15,173.30. Foreign institutional investors remained net buyers in the capital market as they purchased shares worth Rs 1,786.97 crore on Wednesday, according to exchange data. Brent crude futures, the global oil benchmark, fell 0.70 per cent to USD 61.04 per barrel. "The Indian Rupee ended flat against the US dollar, as possible intervention from RBI offset the impact of foreign flows in local equities," said Sriram Iyer, Senior Research Analyst at Reliance Securities. The local unit had strengthened earlier in the session amid equity purchases by foreign investors which continued to remain buoyant over the last three months, Iyer said. The next trigger for the market could be the CPI and IIP data due on Friday, traders said. "On the domestic front, market participants will be keeping an eye on inflation and industrial production number and better-than-estimates number could extend gains for the currency. "Today, volatility for the dollar could remain low as no major economic data is expected to be released from the US," said Gaurang Somaiyaa, Forex & Bullion Analyst, Motilal Oswal Financial Services. Somaiyaa further added that "we expect the USD-INR (Spot) to quote sideways with a lower bias and in the range of 72.70 and 73.25."

Rupee slips 3 paise to 72.87 against US dollar

   	New Delhi, Feb 11 (PTI) The Supreme Court Thursday refused to entertain a plea seeking direction to the Centre to issue ?strict? guidelines to prevent any chance of sale of fake coronavirus vaccines in the country, saying it cannot pass general directions.
	"We understand your motivation but you file a concrete case. We cannot pass general directions. We are not the legislature," a bench headed by Chief Justice S A Bobde told the petitioner.
	"If you (petitioner) want to pursue this issue, you make out a case with concrete facts. We will allow you to withdraw with liberty to file it afresh," the bench, also comprising Justices A S Bopanna and V Ramasubramanian, told advocate Vishal Tiwari who had filed the plea.
	Tiwari told the bench that he would withdraw the plea with liberty to file a fresh petition.
	?The petitioner who is appearing in person seeks permission to withdraw this petition with liberty to file a fresh petition. Permission, as sought for, is granted. Accordingly, the writ petition is dismissed as withdrawn with the liberty aforesaid,? the bench said in its order.
	The plea was filed before the roll out of vaccines in India and had referred to the statement of Secretary General of INTERPOL to the effect that criminal organizations have been planning to infiltrate or disrupt supply chains.
	The plea had said the INTERPOL official also issued a global alert to law enforcement agencies of 194 member countries warning them to prepare for organized crime networks targeting COVID-19 vaccines, both physically and online.
	"Issue writ...Directions to the respondent (Centre) to issue strict guidelines and regulations under Disaster Management Act or under any other law by constituting a special committee to prevent the chances of fake and counterfeit Corona vaccine selling/circulating and advertising by any organization, company, online Apps," it had said.
	It had also sought directions for the government agencies to run awareness programme for safety of citizens against the danger of fake corona vaccine.  
	"Direct the Respondent (Centre) enact a strict law against the criminal act committed by selling or circulating the counterfeit corona vaccine by any organization or Individual," it had said.  

New Delhi, Feb 11 (PTI) The Supreme Court Thursday refused to entertain a plea seeking direction to the Centre to issue ?strict? guidelines to prevent any chance of sale of fake coronavirus vaccines in the country, saying it cannot pass general directions.

New Delhi, Feb 11 (PTI) The Supreme Court Thursday refused to entertain a plea seeking direction to the Centre to issue ?strict? guidelines to prevent any chance of sale of fake coronavirus vaccines in the country, saying it cannot pass general directions. "We understand your motivation but you file a concrete case. We cannot pass general directions. We are not the legislature," a bench headed by Chief Justice S A Bobde told the petitioner. "If you (petitioner) want to pursue this issue, you make out a case with concrete facts. We will allow you to withdraw with liberty to file it afresh," the bench, also comprising Justices A S Bopanna and V Ramasubramanian, told advocate Vishal Tiwari who had filed the plea. Tiwari told the bench that he would withdraw the plea with liberty to file a fresh petition. ?The petitioner who is appearing in person seeks permission to withdraw this petition with liberty to file a fresh petition. Permission, as sought for, is granted. Accordingly, the writ petition is dismissed as withdrawn with the liberty aforesaid,? the bench said in its order. The plea was filed before the roll out of vaccines in India and had referred to the statement of Secretary General of INTERPOL to the effect that criminal organizations have been planning to infiltrate or disrupt supply chains. The plea had said the INTERPOL official also issued a global alert to law enforcement agencies of 194 member countries warning them to prepare for organized crime networks targeting COVID-19 vaccines, both physically and online. "Issue writ...Directions to the respondent (Centre) to issue strict guidelines and regulations under Disaster Management Act or under any other law by constituting a special committee to prevent the chances of fake and counterfeit Corona vaccine selling/circulating and advertising by any organization, company, online Apps," it had said. It had also sought directions for the government agencies to run awareness programme for safety of citizens against the danger of fake corona vaccine. "Direct the Respondent (Centre) enact a strict law against the criminal act committed by selling or circulating the counterfeit corona vaccine by any organization or Individual," it had said.

SC-LD VACCINE

The made-in-India Koo app is set to get rid of its Chinese investor as social media users have started raising questions over the app's Beijing connection.

The app has, in a matter of few days, gained considerable traction&nbsp;as ministers are moving on to the desi microblogging platform. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-grown-koo-to-get-rid-of-chinese-connection-app-co-founder-confirms-362903">Also read | Indian Twitter-like micro-blogging platform Koo witnesses surge in popularity</a>

Koo was founded in March 2020 by Aprameya Radhakrishna and Mayank Bidawatka. It was one of the winners of Aatmanirbhar App challenge 2020.

Koo co-founder Aprameya, to this end, tweeted to confirm that Chinese investor Shunwei Capital, a small stakeholder of the company at present, will soon leave the app, and that its respective stakes are being bought by other companies.

"Koo is an India registered company with Indian founders. Raised earlier capital 2.5 years ago. Latest funds for Bombinate Technologies is led by a truly Indian investor 3one4 capital. Shunwei (single digit shareholder) which had invested in our Vokal journey will be exiting fully," he posted on Twitter.

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Koo is an India registered company with Indian founders. Raised earlier capital 2.5 years ago. Latest funds for Bombinate Technologies is led by a truly Indian investor 3one4 capital. Shunwei (single digit shareholder) which had invested in our Vokal journey will be exiting fully
— Aprameya R (@aprameya) <a href="https://twitter.com/aprameya/status/1359501894779953158?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 10, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The increased promotion of Koo came about as India and San Francisco-headquartered Twitter engaged in a face-off over the latter's "inaction" to take action against account "inciting genocide". Koo got a shot in the arm as some government departments, including the ministry of electronics and information technology, opened their accounts on it, and remained active ever since.

To this end, a Chinese investor on board stood to harm the image of the homegrown app. To fight it, however, Koo managed to raise about ₹30 crore fund from investors.

The new app saw a huge load in the past few days in what is being called as 'Koo coup'.&nbsp;"We have got more love than we expected. Our systems are facing more load than ever. Thank you for placing your trust in us. Our team is working on overdrive to fix it. We request your patience and support through this time," Aprameya tweeted.

The made-in-India Koo app is set to get rid of its Chinese investor as social media users have started raising questions over the app's Beijing connection. The app has, in a matter of few days, gained considerable traction as ministers are moving on to the desi microblogging platform.

The made-in-India Koo app is set to get rid of its Chinese investor as social media users have started raising questions over the app's Beijing connection. The app has, in a matter of few days, gained considerable traction as ministers are moving on to the desi microblogging platform. Also read | Indian Twitter-like micro-blogging platform Koo witnesses surge in popularity Koo was founded in March 2020 by Aprameya Radhakrishna and Mayank Bidawatka. It was one of the winners of Aatmanirbhar App challenge 2020. Koo co-founder Aprameya, to this end, tweeted to confirm that Chinese investor Shunwei Capital, a small stakeholder of the company at present, will soon leave the app, and that its respective stakes are being bought by other companies. "Koo is an India registered company with Indian founders. Raised earlier capital 2.5 years ago. Latest funds for Bombinate Technologies is led by a truly Indian investor 3one4 capital. Shunwei (single digit shareholder) which had invested in our Vokal journey will be exiting fully," he posted on Twitter. Koo is an India registered company with Indian founders. Raised earlier capital 2.5 years ago. Latest funds for Bombinate Technologies is led by a truly Indian investor 3one4 capital. Shunwei (single digit shareholder) which had invested in our Vokal journey will be exiting fully — Aprameya R (@aprameya) February 10, 2021 × The increased promotion of Koo came about as India and San Francisco-headquartered Twitter engaged in a face-off over the latter's "inaction" to take action against account "inciting genocide". Koo got a shot in the arm as some government departments, including the ministry of electronics and information technology, opened their accounts on it, and remained active ever since. To this end, a Chinese investor on board stood to harm the image of the homegrown app. To fight it, however, Koo managed to raise about ₹30 crore fund from investors. The new app saw a huge load in the past few days in what is being called as 'Koo coup'. "We have got more love than we expected. Our systems are facing more load than ever. Thank you for placing your trust in us. Our team is working on overdrive to fix it. We request your patience and support through this time," Aprameya tweeted.

India-grown 'Koo' to get rid of Chinese connection, app co-founder confirms

Mexico will receive around a million doses of AstraZeneca's COVID-19 vaccine sent from India in the early hours of Sunday, President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador said on Wednesday.

Indian envoy to Mexico Manpreet Vohra also made the announcement on Twitter.

"To assist #Mexico's fight against the Covid-19 pandemic, I am delighted to confirm that 500,000 Made-in-India vaccines are scheduled to reach here on Sunday," the Indian Embassy in Mexico tweeted.

The Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine is being manufactured locally by the Serum Institute of India, the world's largest vaccine manufacturer.

Earlier on Wednesday, Dominica and Barbados on Wednesday received 'Made in India' COVID-19 vaccines under the Vaccine Maitri initiative.

India has also supplied Indian-made vaccines to countries including Bhutan, Maldives, Nepal, and Bangladesh.&nbsp;

Mexico will receive around a million doses of AstraZeneca's COVID-19 vaccine sent from India in the early hours of Sunday, President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador said on Wednesday.

Mexico will receive around a million doses of AstraZeneca's COVID-19 vaccine sent from India in the early hours of Sunday, President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador said on Wednesday. Indian envoy to Mexico Manpreet Vohra also made the announcement on Twitter. "To assist #Mexico's fight against the Covid-19 pandemic, I am delighted to confirm that 500,000 Made-in-India vaccines are scheduled to reach here on Sunday," the Indian Embassy in Mexico tweeted. The Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine is being manufactured locally by the Serum Institute of India, the world's largest vaccine manufacturer. Earlier on Wednesday, Dominica and Barbados on Wednesday received 'Made in India' COVID-19 vaccines under the Vaccine Maitri initiative. India has also supplied Indian-made vaccines to countries including Bhutan, Maldives, Nepal, and Bangladesh.

Mexico to receive 1 million doses of India-made Covid vaccine

India-China standoff: Why area along Pangong lake became a flashpoint

A day after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chinas-army-claims-both-sides-start-withdrawal-along-pangong-lake-no-comment-from-india-362709">China </a>said it was pulling back troops from the Line of Actual Control(LAC), India's defence minister Rajnath Singh speaking in Parliament asserted that, "Chinese transgression was answered in an appropriate manner by Indian forces."

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-china-begin-disengagement-at-pangong-tso-in-ladakh-sources-362708/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

India's defence minister said disengagement with China has been agreed and both sides will reduce military activity. Rajnath Singh told Parliament that China will move its troops to the east of Finger 8&nbsp;at the north bank of Pangong Lake&nbsp;and India will move towards Finger 3 to the administrative camp.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/india-china-standoff-why-area-along-pangong-lake-became-a-flash-point-362844">In Pics:&nbsp;Why area along Pangong lake became a flashpoint</a>

"China in April-May 2020 had increased the number of troops at LAC," India's defence minister told India's upper House of Parliament, adding, "our forces have defended LAC bravely."

"We've begun talks over north-south bank of Pangong Lake. Some issues over deployment at LAC are yet to be resolved, both sides have agreed that complete disengagement be done at the earliest," he said.&nbsp;

"Indian soldiers gave a befitting reply on the China border," Rajnath Singh said.

"India has always reiterated to China that bilateral issues can succeed only through efforts by both nations and border issues can only be resolved through dialogue," India's defence minister said, adding,"our security forces have proved that they are ready to face any challenge to protect the sovereignty of the country."

"We will not give one inch of land to anyone," Rajnath Singh said. &nbsp;India's defence minister said that disengagement along the LAC will bring peace.

"China has collected heavy force &amp; arms and ammunition near LAC and in the nearby area on its side. Our forces have also adequate and&nbsp;effectively done counter-deployment," India's defence minister said.

"Since last year, we have maintained relationship with China on military and&nbsp;diplomatic levels. During the talks, we told China that we want a solution on the issue based on three principles,"&nbsp;the defence minister said.

"First, both parties must agree on LAC and&nbsp;respect it. Secondly, there shouldn't be an attempt to change the status unilaterally, by any party. Thirdly, all the compromises should be completely agreed upon by both parties," he said.

A day after China said it was pulling back troops from the Line of Actual Control(LAC), India's defence minister Rajnath Singh speaking in Parliament asserted that, "Chinese transgression was answered in an appropriate manner by Indian forces.

A day after China said it was pulling back troops from the Line of Actual Control(LAC), India's defence minister Rajnath Singh speaking in Parliament asserted that, "Chinese transgression was answered in an appropriate manner by Indian forces." Watch: India's defence minister said disengagement with China has been agreed and both sides will reduce military activity. Rajnath Singh told Parliament that China will move its troops to the east of Finger 8 at the north bank of Pangong Lake and India will move towards Finger 3 to the administrative camp. In Pics: Why area along Pangong lake became a flashpoint "China in April-May 2020 had increased the number of troops at LAC," India's defence minister told India's upper House of Parliament, adding, "our forces have defended LAC bravely." "We've begun talks over north-south bank of Pangong Lake. Some issues over deployment at LAC are yet to be resolved, both sides have agreed that complete disengagement be done at the earliest," he said. "Indian soldiers gave a befitting reply on the China border," Rajnath Singh said. "India has always reiterated to China that bilateral issues can succeed only through efforts by both nations and border issues can only be resolved through dialogue," India's defence minister said, adding,"our security forces have proved that they are ready to face any challenge to protect the sovereignty of the country." "We will not give one inch of land to anyone," Rajnath Singh said. India's defence minister said that disengagement along the LAC will bring peace. "China has collected heavy force & arms and ammunition near LAC and in the nearby area on its side. Our forces have also adequate and effectively done counter-deployment," India's defence minister said. "Since last year, we have maintained relationship with China on military and diplomatic levels. During the talks, we told China that we want a solution on the issue based on three principles," the defence minister said. "First, both parties must agree on LAC and respect it. Secondly, there shouldn't be an attempt to change the status unilaterally, by any party. Thirdly, all the compromises should be completely agreed upon by both parties," he said.

India-China standoff: China will move troops to east of Finger 8, says Rajnath Singh in Parliament over disengagement

Twitter on Wednesday said that it has suspended more than 500 accounts in response to orders by the Indian government.&nbsp;

In an extensive statement 'to set the record straight', the social media giant said, "We took a range of enforcement actions — including permanent suspension in certain cases — against more than 500 accounts escalated across all Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology orders for clear violations of Twitter’s Rules."&nbsp;

Indian Government had sent two orders--one on January 31 and another on February 4 for blocking 257 and 1,178 accounts respectively in the backdrop of farmers' protests. The orders pointed out that these accounts were trying to trend genocide and many of them were backed by the Pakistan-Khalistani combo that could play mischief amid the protests.&nbsp;

Other than suspending accounts, Twitter took 'steps to reduce the visibility of the hashtags containing harmful content' and withheld accounts under 'country withheld content policy', which means these accounts will be available outside of India.&nbsp;

Twitter had informed the Indian government about its actions on Wednesday itself even as engagement between the two continues. The action comes even as the tiff between the two sides has been escalating, with the Indian govt willing to exercises penal provisions under section 69A of the Indian IT act. &nbsp;

Meanwhile, Twitter said it has not taken any actions on accounts of news media entities, journalists, activists, and politicians since, "we believe, would violate their fundamental right to free expression under Indian law." Elaborating, "We will continue to advocate for the right of free expression on behalf of the people we serve."&nbsp;

Twitter, which had in the past blocked 500 accounts, has suspended 500 accounts that were engaged in 'clear examples of platform manipulation and spam'.

Twitter on Wednesday said that it has suspended more than 500 accounts in response to orders by the Indian government. In an extensive statement 'to set the record straight', the social media giant said, "We took a range of enforcement actions — including permanent suspension in certain cases — against more than 500 accounts escalated across all Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology orders for clear violations of Twitter’s Rules.

Twitter on Wednesday said that it has suspended more than 500 accounts in response to orders by the Indian government. In an extensive statement 'to set the record straight', the social media giant said, "We took a range of enforcement actions — including permanent suspension in certain cases — against more than 500 accounts escalated across all Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology orders for clear violations of Twitter’s Rules." Indian Government had sent two orders--one on January 31 and another on February 4 for blocking 257 and 1,178 accounts respectively in the backdrop of farmers' protests. The orders pointed out that these accounts were trying to trend genocide and many of them were backed by the Pakistan-Khalistani combo that could play mischief amid the protests. Other than suspending accounts, Twitter took 'steps to reduce the visibility of the hashtags containing harmful content' and withheld accounts under 'country withheld content policy', which means these accounts will be available outside of India. Twitter had informed the Indian government about its actions on Wednesday itself even as engagement between the two continues. The action comes even as the tiff between the two sides has been escalating, with the Indian govt willing to exercises penal provisions under section 69A of the Indian IT act. Meanwhile, Twitter said it has not taken any actions on accounts of news media entities, journalists, activists, and politicians since, "we believe, would violate their fundamental right to free expression under Indian law." Elaborating, "We will continue to advocate for the right of free expression on behalf of the people we serve." Twitter, which had in the past blocked 500 accounts, has suspended 500 accounts that were engaged in 'clear examples of platform manipulation and spam'.

Twitter suspends 500 accounts in response to Indian govt orders

India on Wednesday pointed out to Pakistan links with terror groups like Al Qaeda, the Islamic State(ISIL), and others and "safe havens" being provided to them in the country.&nbsp;

India's envoy to United Nations TS Tirumurti said, "It is essential that we don’t lose sight of the ease with which the proscribed Haqqani Network and its supporters, especially the Pakistani authorities, have worked along with prominent terrorist organizations like Al-Qaida, ISIL K, Tehrik–Taliban Pakistan, etc. in South Asia."

He explained that the "world is fully aware that these groups also perpetrate terrorist activities from safe havens in Pakistan, including through violent attacks in Afghanistan that have disrupted the peace process."

India's comments came at a UNSC briefing on the 12th report of the UN Secretary-General (SG)on the threat posed by the Islamic State (ISIL/Da'esh) to international peace and security.&nbsp;

The Indian envoy said that UNSG’s report on ISIL "should cover activities" of the proscribed terrorist entities under UN's ISIL and Al Qaida Sanctions regimes like Lashkar-e-Taiba and other Pakistan based terror groups like Jaish-e-Mohammad and frontal organizations.

In fact, Tirumurti pointed out the "relocation of terror groups" to Afghanistan especially in Kunar and Nangarhar. 
provinces from across the Durand Line which is the International border between Afghanistan and Pakistan, saying, "to not name them in this report is doing a disservice as it gives only a partial and a biased view of the situation in the region."

India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar had spoken at the body last month and given 8 point action plan for the UN to deal with the threat of terrorism, which including no double standards on the issue, strengthening of FATF.

India on Wednesday pointed out to Pakistan links with terror groups like Al Qaeda, the Islamic State(ISIL), and others and "safe havens" being provided to them in the country.

India on Wednesday pointed out to Pakistan links with terror groups like Al Qaeda, the Islamic State(ISIL), and others and "safe havens" being provided to them in the country. India's envoy to United Nations TS Tirumurti said, "It is essential that we don’t lose sight of the ease with which the proscribed Haqqani Network and its supporters, especially the Pakistani authorities, have worked along with prominent terrorist organizations like Al-Qaida, ISIL K, Tehrik–Taliban Pakistan, etc. in South Asia." He explained that the "world is fully aware that these groups also perpetrate terrorist activities from safe havens in Pakistan, including through violent attacks in Afghanistan that have disrupted the peace process." India's comments came at a UNSC briefing on the 12th report of the UN Secretary-General (SG)on the threat posed by the Islamic State (ISIL/Da'esh) to international peace and security. The Indian envoy said that UNSG’s report on ISIL "should cover activities" of the proscribed terrorist entities under UN's ISIL and Al Qaida Sanctions regimes like Lashkar-e-Taiba and other Pakistan based terror groups like Jaish-e-Mohammad and frontal organizations. In fact, Tirumurti pointed out the "relocation of terror groups" to Afghanistan especially in Kunar and Nangarhar. provinces from across the Durand Line which is the International border between Afghanistan and Pakistan, saying, "to not name them in this report is doing a disservice as it gives only a partial and a biased view of the situation in the region." India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar had spoken at the body last month and given 8 point action plan for the UN to deal with the threat of terrorism, which including no double standards on the issue, strengthening of FATF.

At UNSC, India highlights Pakistan's link with Al Qaida, Islamic State in South Asia

In a continuation of cordial ties with New Delhi, the United States on Tuesday called India as "one of the most important partners" in the Indo-Pacific region and welcomed the nation's emergence as "a leading global power".&nbsp;

"India is one of the most important partners in the Indo-Pacific region to us. We welcome India's emergence as a leading global power and its role as a net security provider in the region," State Department Spokesperson Ned Price was quoted as saying by news agency PTI to reporters in his daily media briefing.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-eam-s-jaishankar-speaks-to-us-state-secretary-blinken-362555/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Earlier on Tuesday, Secretary of State Antony Blinken also spoke with his Indian counterpart S Jaishankar, where the two leaders reaffirmed the ties between both the countries and discussed mutual concerns, including the military coup in Myanmar.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/115-foreign-missions-send-3000-names-for-indias-covid-vaccination-drive-362377">115 foreign missions send 3000 names for India's COVID vaccination drive</a>

Blinken also talked about the importance of rule of law and the democratic process in Myanmar.&nbsp;

"Both sides look forward to expanded regional cooperation, including through the Quad, and to address the challenges of Covid and climate change," the spokesperson said.

He also said that the US-India Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership is both broad as well as multi-faceted.

"We'll continue to engage at the highest levels of our government to deepen cooperation on many fronts, and we are confident that the strong and upward trajectory of our partnership will, in fact, continue," Price said.&nbsp;

The US also welcomed India again joining as the non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council last month for a two-year term, he said.&nbsp;

Price also highlighted that India is the largest and the most important trading partner of the US with the bilateral trade spiking to USD 146 billion in 2019 and said that US companies are a large source of foreign direct investment in India.&nbsp;

In a continuation of cordial ties with New Delhi, the United States on Tuesday called India as "one of the most important partners" in the Indo-Pacific region and welcomed the nation's emergence as "a leading global power".

In a continuation of cordial ties with New Delhi, the United States on Tuesday called India as "one of the most important partners" in the Indo-Pacific region and welcomed the nation's emergence as "a leading global power". "India is one of the most important partners in the Indo-Pacific region to us. We welcome India's emergence as a leading global power and its role as a net security provider in the region," State Department Spokesperson Ned Price was quoted as saying by news agency PTI to reporters in his daily media briefing. Watch | Earlier on Tuesday, Secretary of State Antony Blinken also spoke with his Indian counterpart S Jaishankar, where the two leaders reaffirmed the ties between both the countries and discussed mutual concerns, including the military coup in Myanmar. Also read | 115 foreign missions send 3000 names for India's COVID vaccination drive Blinken also talked about the importance of rule of law and the democratic process in Myanmar. "Both sides look forward to expanded regional cooperation, including through the Quad, and to address the challenges of Covid and climate change," the spokesperson said. He also said that the US-India Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership is both broad as well as multi-faceted. "We'll continue to engage at the highest levels of our government to deepen cooperation on many fronts, and we are confident that the strong and upward trajectory of our partnership will, in fact, continue," Price said. The US also welcomed India again joining as the non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council last month for a two-year term, he said. Price also highlighted that India is the largest and the most important trading partner of the US with the bilateral trade spiking to USD 146 billion in 2019 and said that US companies are a large source of foreign direct investment in India.

US welcomes India's rise as 'leading global power' as Jaishankar-Blinken talk over phone

According to Customs officials, they intercepted a Singapore-bound cargo at the Air export shed, based on intelligence. The cargo which was declared to contain 600 cotton bed sheets was packed in 12 cartons were examined, as it was found unusually heavy. &nbsp;

On opening the cartons, wooden cut logs with red color, off white marks were found concealed beneath the bedsheets. Forest officials certified the wooden logs as Red Sanders ‘Pterocarpus Santinalus’. Total 25 cut logs weighing 495 kg of Red Sanders valued at Rs. 25 lakhs were recovered and seized under Customs Act 1962 read with Foreign Trade (D&amp;R) Act.

Red Sanders is classified by International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) as “endangered” and falls under Red list. The Exporter M/s Omsrisai Enterprises has been detained to ascertain his role in smuggling and further investigation is in progress, said officials.&nbsp;

Red sanders, which are found in southern Indian states are of high demand in the international market and are used for medicinal and decorative purposes.

According to Customs officials, they intercepted a Singapore-bound cargo at the Air export shed, based on intelligence. The cargo which was declared to contain 600 cotton bed sheets was packed in 12 cartons were examined, as it was found unusually heavy.

According to Customs officials, they intercepted a Singapore-bound cargo at the Air export shed, based on intelligence. The cargo which was declared to contain 600 cotton bed sheets was packed in 12 cartons were examined, as it was found unusually heavy. On opening the cartons, wooden cut logs with red color, off white marks were found concealed beneath the bedsheets. Forest officials certified the wooden logs as Red Sanders ‘Pterocarpus Santinalus’. Total 25 cut logs weighing 495 kg of Red Sanders valued at Rs. 25 lakhs were recovered and seized under Customs Act 1962 read with Foreign Trade (D&R) Act. Red Sanders is classified by International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) as “endangered” and falls under Red list. The Exporter M/s Omsrisai Enterprises has been detained to ascertain his role in smuggling and further investigation is in progress, said officials. Red sanders, which are found in southern Indian states are of high demand in the international market and are used for medicinal and decorative purposes.

495kg of Red Sanders bound for Singapore seized in Chennai

Madurai bench of the Madras High Court has ordered that all elephant death cases in Tamil Nadu be probed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), with the assistance of the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB). Justices MM Sundaresh and Sathish Kumar passed the order in response to two Public Interest Litigations that sought action against perpetrators of wildlife crimes, poaching and suspicious deaths.&nbsp;

One of the PILs was filed by advocate Manoj Immanuel, and it was regarding the 7 suspicious elephant deaths in Meghamalai, Tamil Nadu in 2018. According to the petitioner’s counsel Alagumani and Lajapathi Roy, though the deaths were said to be caused by electrocution, they were suspected to be poaching cases and such deaths went on unabated.&nbsp;

Advocate Alagumani told Zee Media that they had also cited news reports on poachers (arrested in Kerala) having confessed about their elephant poaching activities in Tamil Nadu forests. In response to their 2018 case, the Court had earlier ordered the WCCB to provide a report. The WCCB filed in 2019 stated that there was a big gang involved in these elephant poaching cases and that there were powerful kingpins operating behind.

In the latest case, the Court observed that elephants were an important part of the wild ecosystem and that their deaths were not isolated incidents, but are of a trans-boundary nature. The judges mentioned the importance of preventing poaching and aiding conservation efforts. It was stated that elephant deaths were not just limited to few specific forest areas and that the perpetrators belonged to various states, hence necessitating a CBI probe to ensure that the kingpins are nabbed.

Madurai bench of the Madras High Court has ordered that all elephant death cases in Tamil Nadu be probed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), with the assistance of the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB).

Madurai bench of the Madras High Court has ordered that all elephant death cases in Tamil Nadu be probed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), with the assistance of the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB). Justices MM Sundaresh and Sathish Kumar passed the order in response to two Public Interest Litigations that sought action against perpetrators of wildlife crimes, poaching and suspicious deaths. One of the PILs was filed by advocate Manoj Immanuel, and it was regarding the 7 suspicious elephant deaths in Meghamalai, Tamil Nadu in 2018. According to the petitioner’s counsel Alagumani and Lajapathi Roy, though the deaths were said to be caused by electrocution, they were suspected to be poaching cases and such deaths went on unabated. Advocate Alagumani told Zee Media that they had also cited news reports on poachers (arrested in Kerala) having confessed about their elephant poaching activities in Tamil Nadu forests. In response to their 2018 case, the Court had earlier ordered the WCCB to provide a report. The WCCB filed in 2019 stated that there was a big gang involved in these elephant poaching cases and that there were powerful kingpins operating behind. In the latest case, the Court observed that elephants were an important part of the wild ecosystem and that their deaths were not isolated incidents, but are of a trans-boundary nature. The judges mentioned the importance of preventing poaching and aiding conservation efforts. It was stated that elephant deaths were not just limited to few specific forest areas and that the perpetrators belonged to various states, hence necessitating a CBI probe to ensure that the kingpins are nabbed.

Elephant deaths in Tamil Nadu to be probed by CBI, orders Madras High Court

India's covid vaccine supplies on Wednesday reached the Caribbean with Barbados getting one lakh doses of it and Dominica getting 70,000. The leadership of the country was quick to appreciate India's gesture.

Prime Minister of Dominica Roosevelt Skerrit expressed his "heartfelt thanks and appreciation" to "PM Modi, his govt and citizens of India" for sending covid vaccine supplies. He said, "I must confess I did not imagine that the prayers of my country would have been answered so swiftly. Being the leader of a small Caribbean Island with a population of 72,000 people I did not fancy my chances of getting such a swift and positive response to my request from India's PM Narendra Modi."

Elaborating, "One would have thought and understood that in a global pandemic such as this, a nation's size and might would have been the primary consideration, but it is to the credit of PM Modi, that our request was considered on merit and the equality of our people was recognized."

Barbados's PM Mia Amor Mottley tweeted, "India's gift of 100,000 COVID-19 vaccines arrived Barbados earlier today. This was a very special moment for all Barbadians and I want to thank Prime Minister Modi for his quick, decisive, and magnanimous action in allowing us to be the beneficiary of these vaccines."

Meanwhile, Nicaragua and Mexico in the same region will also soon get India-made vaccines. Indian envoy to Mexico Manpreet Vohra announced, "To assist Mexico's fight against the covid pandemic, I am delighted to confirm that 500,000 Made-in-India vaccines are scheduled to reach here on Sunday" &nbsp;

Expectedly more consignments will be sent from India. &nbsp;While Sunday's amount is the first such consignment, a much larger amount will be shipped to Mexico in March. In total, 2 million doses of vaccine will be going from India to Mexico.&nbsp;

Speaking to WION on the development, Mexican envoy Federico Salas said, "We are very pleased to work with India to address this very important issue to fight the COVID-19 pandemic."

India has so far sent vaccine supplies to around 20 countries, both as gifts and commercially. These are Bhutan, Maldives, Bangladesh, Nepal, Myanmar, Mauritius, Seychelles, Sri Lanka, the UAE, Brazil, Morocco, Bahrain, Oman, Egypt, Algeria, Kuwait, South Africa, Afghanistan, Dominica, Barbados. In the coming weeks, India made vaccines are scheduled to reach Pacific Island States, Mongolia, etc.

60% of global vaccines are produced by India, and apart from COVID vaccines, India is the largest supplier of DPT, BCG and measles vaccines. The world health organization sources 70% of its vaccine needs from India. Last year, amid the pandemic New Delhi sent assistance in the form of medicines and medical equipment to over 150 countries, including grants-in-aid valued at around Rupees 80 crore to 82 countries.

India's covid vaccine supplies on Wednesday reached the Caribbean with Barbados getting one lakh doses of it and Dominica getting 70,000. The leadership of the country was quick to appreciate India's gesture.

India's covid vaccine supplies on Wednesday reached the Caribbean with Barbados getting one lakh doses of it and Dominica getting 70,000. The leadership of the country was quick to appreciate India's gesture. Prime Minister of Dominica Roosevelt Skerrit expressed his "heartfelt thanks and appreciation" to "PM Modi, his govt and citizens of India" for sending covid vaccine supplies. He said, "I must confess I did not imagine that the prayers of my country would have been answered so swiftly. Being the leader of a small Caribbean Island with a population of 72,000 people I did not fancy my chances of getting such a swift and positive response to my request from India's PM Narendra Modi." Elaborating, "One would have thought and understood that in a global pandemic such as this, a nation's size and might would have been the primary consideration, but it is to the credit of PM Modi, that our request was considered on merit and the equality of our people was recognized." Barbados's PM Mia Amor Mottley tweeted, "India's gift of 100,000 COVID-19 vaccines arrived Barbados earlier today. This was a very special moment for all Barbadians and I want to thank Prime Minister Modi for his quick, decisive, and magnanimous action in allowing us to be the beneficiary of these vaccines." Meanwhile, Nicaragua and Mexico in the same region will also soon get India-made vaccines. Indian envoy to Mexico Manpreet Vohra announced, "To assist Mexico's fight against the covid pandemic, I am delighted to confirm that 500,000 Made-in-India vaccines are scheduled to reach here on Sunday" Expectedly more consignments will be sent from India. While Sunday's amount is the first such consignment, a much larger amount will be shipped to Mexico in March. In total, 2 million doses of vaccine will be going from India to Mexico. Speaking to WION on the development, Mexican envoy Federico Salas said, "We are very pleased to work with India to address this very important issue to fight the COVID-19 pandemic." India has so far sent vaccine supplies to around 20 countries, both as gifts and commercially. These are Bhutan, Maldives, Bangladesh, Nepal, Myanmar, Mauritius, Seychelles, Sri Lanka, the UAE, Brazil, Morocco, Bahrain, Oman, Egypt, Algeria, Kuwait, South Africa, Afghanistan, Dominica, Barbados. In the coming weeks, India made vaccines are scheduled to reach Pacific Island States, Mongolia, etc. 60% of global vaccines are produced by India, and apart from COVID vaccines, India is the largest supplier of DPT, BCG and measles vaccines. The world health organization sources 70% of its vaccine needs from India. Last year, amid the pandemic New Delhi sent assistance in the form of medicines and medical equipment to over 150 countries, including grants-in-aid valued at around Rupees 80 crore to 82 countries.

India sends Covid vaccines to Caribbean, up next Mexico

Yudh Abhyas: India, US begin joint military exercise in western sector

The rescue operation continued through the night on Tuesday in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/197-people-missing-20-dead-in-uttarakhand-floods-home-minister-amit-shah-tells-parliament-362505">Tapovan</a> tunnel in Chamoli district of Uttarakhand after the glacier burst last weekend.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/over-170-labourers-missing-after-glaciers-breaks-off-in-uttarakhand-india-362030/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The teams worked to remove slush and debris in the tunnel with around 30 people still feared trapped in the tunnel. A joint team of ITBP, NDRF, SDRF and other agencies entered the tunnel with drone camera used to assess the feasibility to enter beyond the cleared site inside the tunnel.&nbsp;

The death toll in the disaster has risen to 31 with the recovery of five bodies on Tuesday with the state agencies informing that 175 people are still missing.&nbsp;

The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) said two bodies from debris in Raini village was recovered on Tuesday morning.

Amid the rescue operation, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rescuers-recover-people-trapped-in-uttarakhands-tapovan-tunnel-after-glacier-burst-362297">Uttarakhand</a> chief minister Trivendra Singh Rawat visited Lata in Chamoli district to meet the residents of the villages and also undertook an aerial survey of the affected areas.

"Undaunted multi-agency security personnel are trying hard to make their way through the tunnel. Let us see how many lives we can save," the state chief minister said.

Several villages in Joshimath were cut off after the avalanche in Rishi Ganga river on Sunday with areas in &nbsp;Raini Palli, Pang, Lata, Suraithota, Suki, Bhalgaon, Tolma, Fagrasu, Long Segdi, Gahar, Bhangyul, Juwagwad and Jugju being cut off.

Meanwhile, ITBP personnel provided ration items to Pang village which was cut off due to flash flood in Uttarakhand on Sunday. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) said two bodies from debris in Raini village was recovered on Tuesday morning.

Amid the rescue operation, Uttarakhand chief minister Trivendra Singh Rawat visited Lata in Chamoli district to meet the residents of the villages and also undertook an aerial survey of the affected areas .

"Undaunted multi-agency security personnel are trying hard to make their way through the tunnel. Let us see how many lives we can save," the state chief minister said.

Several villages in Joshimath were cut off after the avalanche in Rishi Ganga river on Sunday with areas in &nbsp;Raini Palli, Pang, Lata, Suraithota, Suki, Bhalgaon, Tolma, Fagrasu, Long Segdi, Gahar, Bhangyul, Juwagwad and Jugju being cut off.

The rescue operation continued through the night on Tuesday in Tapovan tunnel in Chamoli district of Uttarakhand after the glacier burst last weekend. Watch: The teams worked to remove slush and debris in the tunnel with around 30 people still feared trapped in the tunnel.

The rescue operation continued through the night on Tuesday in Tapovan tunnel in Chamoli district of Uttarakhand after the glacier burst last weekend. Watch: The teams worked to remove slush and debris in the tunnel with around 30 people still feared trapped in the tunnel. A joint team of ITBP, NDRF, SDRF and other agencies entered the tunnel with drone camera used to assess the feasibility to enter beyond the cleared site inside the tunnel. The death toll in the disaster has risen to 31 with the recovery of five bodies on Tuesday with the state agencies informing that 175 people are still missing. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) said two bodies from debris in Raini village was recovered on Tuesday morning. Amid the rescue operation, Uttarakhand chief minister Trivendra Singh Rawat visited Lata in Chamoli district to meet the residents of the villages and also undertook an aerial survey of the affected areas. "Undaunted multi-agency security personnel are trying hard to make their way through the tunnel. Let us see how many lives we can save," the state chief minister said. Several villages in Joshimath were cut off after the avalanche in Rishi Ganga river on Sunday with areas in Raini Palli, Pang, Lata, Suraithota, Suki, Bhalgaon, Tolma, Fagrasu, Long Segdi, Gahar, Bhangyul, Juwagwad and Jugju being cut off. Meanwhile, ITBP personnel provided ration items to Pang village which was cut off due to flash flood in Uttarakhand on Sunday. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) said two bodies from debris in Raini village was recovered on Tuesday morning. Amid the rescue operation, Uttarakhand chief minister Trivendra Singh Rawat visited Lata in Chamoli district to meet the residents of the villages and also undertook an aerial survey of the affected areas . "Undaunted multi-agency security personnel are trying hard to make their way through the tunnel. Let us see how many lives we can save," the state chief minister said. Several villages in Joshimath were cut off after the avalanche in Rishi Ganga river on Sunday with areas in Raini Palli, Pang, Lata, Suraithota, Suki, Bhalgaon, Tolma, Fagrasu, Long Segdi, Gahar, Bhangyul, Juwagwad and Jugju being cut off.

Rescue teams use drones in Uttarakhand's Tapovan tunnel

The death toll in the disaster has climbed to 32, while some 206 people are still missing, confirmed the Uttarakhand Police on Wednesday.

Uttarakhand glacier burst: 32 bodies recovered, 206 persons still missing

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