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Brazilian Health Minister Eduardo Pazuello on Friday (February 5) said the South American country was in negotiations with India and Russia to buy an additional 30 million coronavirus vaccines as the country grapples with one of the world's worst Covid-19 outbreaks.

Russian biomedical centre Gamaleya will be able to offer 10 million Sputnik V vaccine doses in February and March if a deal is reached, and Bharat Biotech will be able to offer 8 million doses of Covaxin in February and another 12 million in March, the ministry said. It said the parties would meet on Friday to discuss the supply deal.

Pazuello's announcement came as Brazil's pandemic death toll approached 230,000 and with a new variant of the virus in the city of Manaus proving to be devastating in a second wave now hammering the jungle city.

While the federally-funded Fiocruz biomedical centre is still awaiting supplies to begin bottling doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine, the Butantan Institute has begun finishing and selling doses of CoronaVac to the Health Ministry.

The South American country on Thursday&nbsp;had registered 9,396,293 total confirmed cases and 228,795 deaths from the virus. It was the third day in a row Brazil reported over 1,200 coronavirus deaths.

India is also exporting doses, including commercial shipments to&nbsp;Brazil&nbsp;and Morocco, and free shipments to the Maldives, Bhutan, Bangladesh and Nepal.

Brazil's government has a deal with AstraZeneca to produce up to 100 million doses of its vaccine locally at Rio de Janeiro's Fiocruz Institute, but the delivery of the active ingredient needed to manufacture them has been plagued by delays from China.

As a result, AstraZeneca agreed to supply the government with 2 million ready-to-use doses made in India. After a major diplomatic effort, that included a letter from&nbsp;Brazil's President Jair Bolsonaro to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, those shots arrived on Friday.

Until now,&nbsp;Brazil's widely criticised vaccine rollout has depended on a shot developed by Sinovac Biotech Ltd vaccine in partnership with Sao Paulo's Butantan Institute.

Bolsonaro had previously decried the Chinese shot as being useless, but his government is becoming increasingly reliant on it to tame the world's second most deadly coronavirus outbreak after the United States.

The far-right former army captain is under growing pressure for his handling of the rollout, which has been plagued by delays and a lack of vaccines, just as a brutal second-wave gathers steam.

Brazilian Health Minister Eduardo Pazuello on Friday (February 5) said the South American country was in negotiations with India and Russia to buy an additional 30 million coronavirus vaccines as the country grapples with one of the world's worst Covid-19 outbreaks.

Brazilian Health Minister Eduardo Pazuello on Friday (February 5) said the South American country was in negotiations with India and Russia to buy an additional 30 million coronavirus vaccines as the country grapples with one of the world's worst Covid-19 outbreaks. Russian biomedical centre Gamaleya will be able to offer 10 million Sputnik V vaccine doses in February and March if a deal is reached, and Bharat Biotech will be able to offer 8 million doses of Covaxin in February and another 12 million in March, the ministry said. It said the parties would meet on Friday to discuss the supply deal. Pazuello's announcement came as Brazil's pandemic death toll approached 230,000 and with a new variant of the virus in the city of Manaus proving to be devastating in a second wave now hammering the jungle city. While the federally-funded Fiocruz biomedical centre is still awaiting supplies to begin bottling doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine, the Butantan Institute has begun finishing and selling doses of CoronaVac to the Health Ministry. The South American country on Thursday had registered 9,396,293 total confirmed cases and 228,795 deaths from the virus. It was the third day in a row Brazil reported over 1,200 coronavirus deaths. India is also exporting doses, including commercial shipments to Brazil and Morocco, and free shipments to the Maldives, Bhutan, Bangladesh and Nepal. Brazil's government has a deal with AstraZeneca to produce up to 100 million doses of its vaccine locally at Rio de Janeiro's Fiocruz Institute, but the delivery of the active ingredient needed to manufacture them has been plagued by delays from China. As a result, AstraZeneca agreed to supply the government with 2 million ready-to-use doses made in India. After a major diplomatic effort, that included a letter from Brazil's President Jair Bolsonaro to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, those shots arrived on Friday. Until now, Brazil's widely criticised vaccine rollout has depended on a shot developed by Sinovac Biotech Ltd vaccine in partnership with Sao Paulo's Butantan Institute. Bolsonaro had previously decried the Chinese shot as being useless, but his government is becoming increasingly reliant on it to tame the world's second most deadly coronavirus outbreak after the United States. The far-right former army captain is under growing pressure for his handling of the rollout, which has been plagued by delays and a lack of vaccines, just as a brutal second-wave gathers steam.

Brazil in talks with India to buy an additional 30 million coronavirus vaccines

More than a quarter of Indian children aged between 10 and 17 may have already contracted COVID-19, according to a government <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sero-survey-shows-large-proportion-of-india-still-vulnerable-to-covid-19-icmr-361417">serological survey</a> released on Thursday, higher than the 21.5% of the overall population found to have been infected.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indias-vaccine-production-capacity-is-best-asset-world-has-today-says-un-chief-antonio-guterres-360033/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The survey of more than 35,700 people above 10, conducted in the last two months, gave a much lower estimate for the average number of people to have contracted <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/govt-says-97-of-those-who-took-covid-19-shots-are-satisfied-with-experience-361419">COVID-19 </a>than other research.

Separate tests done on more than 700,000 people across India by diagnostics company Thyrocare Technologies showed 55% of the country’s 1.35 billion people may have already been infected, its chief told Reuters last week.

The national survey, however, suggests that more than 290 million people may have already been infected in the country.

“The overall picture still shows that more than 75% of the population even now can get infected,” said Vinod Kumar Paul, who heads a government group of experts on vaccine strategy, urging people to keep maintaining social distancing and wearing masks.

Among 7,171 randomly-tested healthcare workers, 25.7% were found to have developed antibodies. The Delhi government had said this week that it was approaching herd immunity through natural infection as 56 per cent&nbsp;of its residents had COVID-19 antibodies.

The government also said nearly 46 per cent&nbsp;of the country’s 9.6 million registered healthcare workers had been given the first vaccine dose since an inoculation campaign began on January&nbsp;16.

India, which wants to vaccinate 300 million people by August in both government and private hospitals, recently started giving shots to other frontline workers such as police personnel, and would soon start covering the elderly, health secretary Rajesh Bhushan said.

The drive&nbsp;has been started with two vaccines: one licensed from Oxford University-AstraZeneca, and another developed at home by Bharat Biotech and the state-run Indian Council of Medical Research.

The next in line for approval are Russia’s Sputnik V and Cadila Healthcare’s ZyCov-D. Pfizer Inc and partner BioNTech have also sought a similar approval.

India on Thursday reported 12,899 new COVID-19 cases. Deaths rose by 107 to 154,703 - one of the lowest fatality rates anywhere.

More than a quarter of Indian children aged between 10 and 17 may have already contracted COVID-19, according to a government serological survey released on Thursday, higher than the 21.

More than a quarter of Indian children aged between 10 and 17 may have already contracted COVID-19, according to a government serological survey released on Thursday, higher than the 21.5% of the overall population found to have been infected. Watch: The survey of more than 35,700 people above 10, conducted in the last two months, gave a much lower estimate for the average number of people to have contracted COVID-19 than other research. Separate tests done on more than 700,000 people across India by diagnostics company Thyrocare Technologies showed 55% of the country’s 1.35 billion people may have already been infected, its chief told Reuters last week. The national survey, however, suggests that more than 290 million people may have already been infected in the country. “The overall picture still shows that more than 75% of the population even now can get infected,” said Vinod Kumar Paul, who heads a government group of experts on vaccine strategy, urging people to keep maintaining social distancing and wearing masks. Among 7,171 randomly-tested healthcare workers, 25.7% were found to have developed antibodies. The Delhi government had said this week that it was approaching herd immunity through natural infection as 56 per cent of its residents had COVID-19 antibodies. The government also said nearly 46 per cent of the country’s 9.6 million registered healthcare workers had been given the first vaccine dose since an inoculation campaign began on January 16. India, which wants to vaccinate 300 million people by August in both government and private hospitals, recently started giving shots to other frontline workers such as police personnel, and would soon start covering the elderly, health secretary Rajesh Bhushan said. The drive has been started with two vaccines: one licensed from Oxford University-AstraZeneca, and another developed at home by Bharat Biotech and the state-run Indian Council of Medical Research. The next in line for approval are Russia’s Sputnik V and Cadila Healthcare’s ZyCov-D. Pfizer Inc and partner BioNTech have also sought a similar approval. India on Thursday reported 12,899 new COVID-19 cases. Deaths rose by 107 to 154,703 - one of the lowest fatality rates anywhere.

Quarter of Indian children may have COVID-19 antibodies: Survey

European Union Parliamentarians have strongly backed India and South Africa's joint proposal at the World Trade Organization for a waiver on intellectual property rights for COVID-19 vaccine patents.

EU parliamentarians back India-South Africa proposal for COVID-19 vaccine patent waiver

Mumbai, Feb 5 (IANS) Superstar Salman Khan is all set to release his action drama Radhe in theatres on the occasion of Eid. The film is billed as a single screen entertainer, but Salman admits the scene is rather bleak for the traditional big screen exhibitors right now.
 
"There are three films of mine that are ready for release, and the problem with single screen theatres is that there are very few films being released over there," said Salman, whose upcoming roster also includes Antim, Tiger 3, Kick 2, and Kabhi Eid Kabhi Diwali. 
"Nowadays, there is a kabristan (graveyard) kind of feel to single screen theatres, as no one goes there to watch films. Obviously, the people who own these have no other option than running them, and there are so many theatres that have shut down due to financial reasons. I feel it is not a good sign. We are in the profession of acting, so we make films. But where should we release them?" he said. 
"It`s a catch-22 situation as we are incomplete without them (theatre owners) and they are incomplete without us. I have a good hold over single screen theatres, so they (theatre owners) requested me to release `Radhe` in single screen theatres," added Salman, while interacting with the media at the launch of Indian Pro Music League in the city. 
A couple of weeks ago, putting an end to speculations around the release of his film, Salman had issued a statement on Instagram assuring exhibitors he would release the film only in theatres, contrary to the rising trend of taking films straight to OTT. 
Salman`s assurance came after exhibitors all over India had requested him to release the film only in theatres. 
He urged theatre owners to follow safety precautions while screening films. 
"Covid-19 is still there, so we have requested theatres owners to follow safety precautions while screening films, so that no one gets infected. The younger generation is surviving this period, so the problem is not about the younger generation but we have to take care of our parents and grandparents. If they get infected because of us, then we will feel the guilt for our lifetime, so that is the only thing we have to be careful about," he said. 
"Now the vaccination drive has also started, so we are going towards a safe zone. I hope and pray that 2021 and 2022 will be better than 2020 for all of us and we will make growth in our lives," he added. 
Salman took the occasion to wish fans a happy Valentine`s Day in advance. "What is my connection with Valentine`s Day? Or is there only me who has anything to do with Valentine`s Day?" he laughed, adding: "I wish everyone a very happy Valentine`s Day, God bless and be safe." 
Salman`s new film Radhe is directed by Prabhu Deva. The film also features Disha Patani, Randeep Hooda and Jackie Shroff in pivotal roles. 
--IANS 
iv/vnc

Mumbai, Feb 5 (IANS) Superstar Salman Khan is all set to release his action drama Radhe in theatres on the occasion of Eid. The film is billed as a single screen entertainer, but Salman admits the scene is rather bleak for the traditional big screen exhibitors right now.

Mumbai, Feb 5 (IANS) Superstar Salman Khan is all set to release his action drama Radhe in theatres on the occasion of Eid. The film is billed as a single screen entertainer, but Salman admits the scene is rather bleak for the traditional big screen exhibitors right now. "There are three films of mine that are ready for release, and the problem with single screen theatres is that there are very few films being released over there," said Salman, whose upcoming roster also includes Antim, Tiger 3, Kick 2, and Kabhi Eid Kabhi Diwali. "Nowadays, there is a kabristan (graveyard) kind of feel to single screen theatres, as no one goes there to watch films. Obviously, the people who own these have no other option than running them, and there are so many theatres that have shut down due to financial reasons. I feel it is not a good sign. We are in the profession of acting, so we make films. But where should we release them?" he said. "It`s a catch-22 situation as we are incomplete without them (theatre owners) and they are incomplete without us. I have a good hold over single screen theatres, so they (theatre owners) requested me to release `Radhe` in single screen theatres," added Salman, while interacting with the media at the launch of Indian Pro Music League in the city. A couple of weeks ago, putting an end to speculations around the release of his film, Salman had issued a statement on Instagram assuring exhibitors he would release the film only in theatres, contrary to the rising trend of taking films straight to OTT. Salman`s assurance came after exhibitors all over India had requested him to release the film only in theatres. He urged theatre owners to follow safety precautions while screening films. "Covid-19 is still there, so we have requested theatres owners to follow safety precautions while screening films, so that no one gets infected. The younger generation is surviving this period, so the problem is not about the younger generation but we have to take care of our parents and grandparents. If they get infected because of us, then we will feel the guilt for our lifetime, so that is the only thing we have to be careful about," he said. "Now the vaccination drive has also started, so we are going towards a safe zone. I hope and pray that 2021 and 2022 will be better than 2020 for all of us and we will make growth in our lives," he added. Salman took the occasion to wish fans a happy Valentine`s Day in advance. "What is my connection with Valentine`s Day? Or is there only me who has anything to do with Valentine`s Day?" he laughed, adding: "I wish everyone a very happy Valentine`s Day, God bless and be safe." Salman`s new film Radhe is directed by Prabhu Deva. The film also features Disha Patani, Randeep Hooda and Jackie Shroff in pivotal roles. --IANS iv/vnc

Salman Khan: ''There are three films of mine that are ready for release''

Chennai Air Cargo Customs officials intercepted a consignment that was suspected(based on intelligence) to contain narcotics substances. As per the shipping bill, kitchenware such as big-sized coconut scrapers, electric rice cookers, non-stick pans, etc were declared and meant for export to Australia.&nbsp;

The cartons containing the cargo were examined at the Air Cargo export shed in the city. According to officials, three small wooden boxes were found hidden within the frame of the coconut scrapers. A polythene bag containing white powder was found concealed in the boxes and the powder tested positive for pseudoephedrine.

Total 12 polythene bags containing 24.5 Kg of Pseudoephedrine valued at Rs. 2.45 Crore or USD3.36 lakh were recovered from four coconut scrapers and was seized under the NDPS Act 1985.

Searches at the facility of exporter M/s V M Eximp of Chennai led to the arrest of Vivekanandan,43.&nbsp;

Pseudoephedrine is a decongestant that shrinks blood vessels in the nasal passages and is used to treat nasal and sinus congestion.&nbsp;

However, Pseudoephedrine is a sought-after chemical precursor in the illicit manufacture of Methamphetamine, which is a powerful stimulant that can be highly addictive and easily abused.

Chennai Air Cargo Customs officials intercepted a consignment that was suspected(based on intelligence) to contain narcotics substances. As per the shipping bill, kitchenware such as big-sized coconut scrapers, electric rice cookers, non-stick pans, etc were declared and meant for export to Australia.

Chennai Air Cargo Customs officials intercepted a consignment that was suspected(based on intelligence) to contain narcotics substances. As per the shipping bill, kitchenware such as big-sized coconut scrapers, electric rice cookers, non-stick pans, etc were declared and meant for export to Australia. The cartons containing the cargo were examined at the Air Cargo export shed in the city. According to officials, three small wooden boxes were found hidden within the frame of the coconut scrapers. A polythene bag containing white powder was found concealed in the boxes and the powder tested positive for pseudoephedrine. Total 12 polythene bags containing 24.5 Kg of Pseudoephedrine valued at Rs. 2.45 Crore or USD3.36 lakh were recovered from four coconut scrapers and was seized under the NDPS Act 1985. Searches at the facility of exporter M/s V M Eximp of Chennai led to the arrest of Vivekanandan,43. Pseudoephedrine is a decongestant that shrinks blood vessels in the nasal passages and is used to treat nasal and sinus congestion. However, Pseudoephedrine is a sought-after chemical precursor in the illicit manufacture of Methamphetamine, which is a powerful stimulant that can be highly addictive and easily abused.

Exporter arrested; 24.5kg drugs seized in kitchenware bound for Australia

A top official of the administration of the Union Territory on Friday tweeted that 4G mobile internet is being restored in Jammu and Kashmir.

"4G mobile internet services being restored in entire J&amp;K," said Rohit Kansal, J&amp;K Principal Secretary (Power &amp; Information).

In a previous order, the Jammu and Kashmir administration had extended the ban on high-speed mobile data services across the Union Territory, except Ganderbal and Udhampur, till February 6.

Mobile internet services had been suspended in Jammu and Kashmir since August 5, 2019, due to security reasons when the central government had abrogated Article 370 and Article 35A and J&amp;K transitioned from a state into a UT on October 31, 2019.

(With inputs from agencies)

A top official of the administration of the Union Territory on Friday tweeted that 4G mobile internet is being restored in Jammu and Kashmir. "4G mobile internet services being restored in entire J&K," said Rohit Kansal, J&K Principal Secretary (Power & Information).

A top official of the administration of the Union Territory on Friday tweeted that 4G mobile internet is being restored in Jammu and Kashmir. "4G mobile internet services being restored in entire J&K," said Rohit Kansal, J&K Principal Secretary (Power & Information). In a previous order, the Jammu and Kashmir administration had extended the ban on high-speed mobile data services across the Union Territory, except Ganderbal and Udhampur, till February 6. Mobile internet services had been suspended in Jammu and Kashmir since August 5, 2019, due to security reasons when the central government had abrogated Article 370 and Article 35A and J&K transitioned from a state into a UT on October 31, 2019. (With inputs from agencies)

4G mobile internet services being restored in entire J&K

The World Trade Organization (WTO) will be again taking up joint India-South Africa proposal for wavier for Intellectual Property Right (IPR) on COVID-19 vaccine patent. The proposal will be considered in the meeting of the council which is to be held on February 23.

This matter was taken up on Thursday at a meeting of the body, but the attendees failed to reach an outcome, amid stiff opposition by developed countries. WTO so far has not ruled anything on the proposal that will make access to the vaccines easier.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pfizer-withdraws-emergency-use-authorisation-application-in-india-361527" hreflang="en">Pfizer withdraws Emergency Use Authorisation application in India</a>

Countries such as the US and a few other European countries&nbsp;are opposed to the proposal as they see the free licence regime as a loss that can permanently alter the IP landscape. However, Indian-South African proposal comes even as top focus, globally, has been easy access for coronavirus&nbsp;vaccines.

Europe itself is embroiled in a tiff with the drug manufacturer, AstraZeneca, for supplies. In fact, 14 European parliamentarians have written a strongly worded letter to the EU leaders, calling for support for India-South Africa proposal. This proposal is seen as a "nuclear option" and in fact,&nbsp;the Italian Parliament had backed the proposal as far as December.&nbsp;

The World Trade Organization (WTO) will be again taking up joint India-South Africa proposal for wavier for Intellectual Property Right (IPR) on COVID-19 vaccine patent.

The World Trade Organization (WTO) will be again taking up joint India-South Africa proposal for wavier for Intellectual Property Right (IPR) on COVID-19 vaccine patent. The proposal will be considered in the meeting of the council which is to be held on February 23. This matter was taken up on Thursday at a meeting of the body, but the attendees failed to reach an outcome, amid stiff opposition by developed countries. WTO so far has not ruled anything on the proposal that will make access to the vaccines easier. Also read| Pfizer withdraws Emergency Use Authorisation application in India Countries such as the US and a few other European countries are opposed to the proposal as they see the free licence regime as a loss that can permanently alter the IP landscape. However, Indian-South African proposal comes even as top focus, globally, has been easy access for coronavirus vaccines. Europe itself is embroiled in a tiff with the drug manufacturer, AstraZeneca, for supplies. In fact, 14 European parliamentarians have written a strongly worded letter to the EU leaders, calling for support for India-South Africa proposal. This proposal is seen as a "nuclear option" and in fact, the Italian Parliament had backed the proposal as far as December.

WTO to take up India-SAfrica proposal for waiver on IP rights for COVID vaccines on Feb 23

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister K Palaniswami announced the waiver on Rs.12,10cr crop loans that farmers borrowed from cooperative banks. According to the Chief Minister, this move is to benefit 16.43lakhs farmers. &nbsp;This in addition to the earlier announcement of Rs.1,117cr as compensation for damaged crops, it was said to aid around 11 lakh farmers.&nbsp;

Palaniswami said that this announcement was meant to ease the burden on farmers who have been struggling owing to the pandemic, two cyclones and the unusual rains in the most of January. Tamil Nadu had seen unprecedented rainfall in the previous month, which had caused severe damage to crops that were ready for harvest.&nbsp;

Referring to his roots as a farmer, the Chief Minister said that he always understood the farming community’s woes. “In 2016, Rs.5780 worth farm loans were waived off. Its a matter of joy for me as a farmer, that Amma’s(Jayalalithaa's government) has waived off farm loans twice, during its tenure” he added. &nbsp;

Outlining the aid to farmers during their 10-year rule, the Government stated that 12.02lakh small-scale farmers had benefited from the waiver and that Rs.2,247cr was provided as an aid in 2017 owing to the severe drought. &nbsp;

In addition to the loan waivers, the Chief Minister said that cases filed against those who took part in the 2017 Jallikattu protests would be withdrawn, in consultation with legal experts. All charges except those of setting vehicles on fire, attacking policemen would be withdrawn, he added. &nbsp;

The Chief Minister also lashed out the opposition party DMK, by saying that they had been unable to fulfill their 2006 Assembly Poll promise on providing 2 acres of land for landless farmers. He also added that the 38 DMK MPSs had forgotten their promise made during the 2019 Parliamentary polls, of waiving off farm loans from cooperatives.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister K Palaniswami announced the waiver on Rs.12,10cr crop loans that farmers borrowed from cooperative banks. According to the Chief Minister, this move is to benefit 16.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister K Palaniswami announced the waiver on Rs.12,10cr crop loans that farmers borrowed from cooperative banks. According to the Chief Minister, this move is to benefit 16.43lakhs farmers. This in addition to the earlier announcement of Rs.1,117cr as compensation for damaged crops, it was said to aid around 11 lakh farmers. Palaniswami said that this announcement was meant to ease the burden on farmers who have been struggling owing to the pandemic, two cyclones and the unusual rains in the most of January. Tamil Nadu had seen unprecedented rainfall in the previous month, which had caused severe damage to crops that were ready for harvest. Referring to his roots as a farmer, the Chief Minister said that he always understood the farming community’s woes. “In 2016, Rs.5780 worth farm loans were waived off. Its a matter of joy for me as a farmer, that Amma’s(Jayalalithaa's government) has waived off farm loans twice, during its tenure” he added. Outlining the aid to farmers during their 10-year rule, the Government stated that 12.02lakh small-scale farmers had benefited from the waiver and that Rs.2,247cr was provided as an aid in 2017 owing to the severe drought. In addition to the loan waivers, the Chief Minister said that cases filed against those who took part in the 2017 Jallikattu protests would be withdrawn, in consultation with legal experts. All charges except those of setting vehicles on fire, attacking policemen would be withdrawn, he added. The Chief Minister also lashed out the opposition party DMK, by saying that they had been unable to fulfill their 2006 Assembly Poll promise on providing 2 acres of land for landless farmers. He also added that the 38 DMK MPSs had forgotten their promise made during the 2019 Parliamentary polls, of waiving off farm loans from cooperatives.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister K Palaniswami announces waiver on Rs.12,110cr farm loans from cooperative banks  

The Supreme Court on Friday refused to entertain a plea which had sought a direction to instant messaging platform WhatsApp to roll back its new privacy policy on grounds that it is allegedly violative of laws and can impact the country's security.

A bench headed by Chief Justice S A Bobde observed that this issue is already being heard by the Delhi High Court and the petitioner can choose the suitable remedy.

The bench, also comprising justices A S Bopanna and V Ramasubramanian, was hearing a plea filed by the Confederation of All India Traders which had sought a direction to the Centre to intervene in the matter and frame guidelines to govern large technology-based companies such as WhatsApp Inc., Facebook Inc. and Facebook India Online Services Private Limited.

The plea, filed through advocate Vivek Narayan Sharma, had said that the public interest litigation (PIL) was necessitated due to the alleged failure of the Centre in carrying out its constitutional duty and responsibility to protect the rights to privacy and freedom of speech and expression of the citizens of India.

"The respondent no.1 -- Union of India -- has granted permission to respondent nos 2 to 4 to run the WhatsApp application in India, but has failed to play the role of a guardian to protect the fundamental rights of citizens in as much as WhatsApp, which is rendering essential public services by enabling citizens to communicate, has recently imposed unconstitutional privacy conditions which are not only violative of the law but can impact the national security of the country," it had claimed.

"...on January 4, 2021, WhatsApp introduced its new privacy policy through which it scrapped its 'opt-out policy' and from now on, users will have to compulsorily consent to share their data with Facebook and its group companies for using the platform.

The new policy will come into effect from February 8, 2021," the plea had said.

The petitioner had alleged that the updated privacy policy of WhatsApp would adversely impact the citizens' fundamental right to privacy and is also fundamentally opposed to their representation.

The plea said that users share confidential information on the platform on the assurance that their private and personal conversations, along with their confidential data and information, will neither be accessed by any other person (including the service provider itself) nor would such data or information be shared or exploited or utilised by anyone in any manner whatsoever.

"Thus, the technology giants who deal with such data must have a fiduciary duty to ensure that the information they so possess and collect from citizens and businesses must be safe and not used for their commercial gains without the consent of the users.

It is also the responsibility of the State to guarantee and ensure the protection of the personal and private data and information of the citizens," the plea had said.

The plea had sought a direction to the Centre to prohibit WhatsApp, Facebook and Facebook India from sharing the details and data of subscribers and users.

It had also sought a direction to the Centre to regulate the functioning of WhatsApp, Facebook and other internet-based messaging services.

The Supreme Court on Friday refused to entertain a plea which had sought a direction to instant messaging platform WhatsApp to roll back its new privacy policy on grounds that it is allegedly violative of laws and can impact the country's security.

The Supreme Court on Friday refused to entertain a plea which had sought a direction to instant messaging platform WhatsApp to roll back its new privacy policy on grounds that it is allegedly violative of laws and can impact the country's security. A bench headed by Chief Justice S A Bobde observed that this issue is already being heard by the Delhi High Court and the petitioner can choose the suitable remedy. The bench, also comprising justices A S Bopanna and V Ramasubramanian, was hearing a plea filed by the Confederation of All India Traders which had sought a direction to the Centre to intervene in the matter and frame guidelines to govern large technology-based companies such as WhatsApp Inc., Facebook Inc. and Facebook India Online Services Private Limited. The plea, filed through advocate Vivek Narayan Sharma, had said that the public interest litigation (PIL) was necessitated due to the alleged failure of the Centre in carrying out its constitutional duty and responsibility to protect the rights to privacy and freedom of speech and expression of the citizens of India. "The respondent no.1 -- Union of India -- has granted permission to respondent nos 2 to 4 to run the WhatsApp application in India, but has failed to play the role of a guardian to protect the fundamental rights of citizens in as much as WhatsApp, which is rendering essential public services by enabling citizens to communicate, has recently imposed unconstitutional privacy conditions which are not only violative of the law but can impact the national security of the country," it had claimed. "...on January 4, 2021, WhatsApp introduced its new privacy policy through which it scrapped its 'opt-out policy' and from now on, users will have to compulsorily consent to share their data with Facebook and its group companies for using the platform. The new policy will come into effect from February 8, 2021," the plea had said. The petitioner had alleged that the updated privacy policy of WhatsApp would adversely impact the citizens' fundamental right to privacy and is also fundamentally opposed to their representation. The plea said that users share confidential information on the platform on the assurance that their private and personal conversations, along with their confidential data and information, will neither be accessed by any other person (including the service provider itself) nor would such data or information be shared or exploited or utilised by anyone in any manner whatsoever. "Thus, the technology giants who deal with such data must have a fiduciary duty to ensure that the information they so possess and collect from citizens and businesses must be safe and not used for their commercial gains without the consent of the users. It is also the responsibility of the State to guarantee and ensure the protection of the personal and private data and information of the citizens," the plea had said. The plea had sought a direction to the Centre to prohibit WhatsApp, Facebook and Facebook India from sharing the details and data of subscribers and users. It had also sought a direction to the Centre to regulate the functioning of WhatsApp, Facebook and other internet-based messaging services.

Supreme Court refuses to entertain plea against new WhatsApp privacy policy

In its first mission in 2021, India's space agency ISRO planned to launch on February 28 Brazilian satellite Amazonia-1 and three Indian payloads, including one built by a home-grown start-up.

The satellites are slated to be launched onboard the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) C-51 at 10.28 am from the Sriharikota spaceport, over 100 kms from Chennai.

Secretary in the Department of Space and Chairman of Bengaluru-headquartered ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) K Sivan confirmed the PSLV-C51 schedule to PTI on Friday.

Amazonia-1, reportedly the first earth observation satellite entirely developed by Brazil, is the primary payload.

'Anand', 'Satish Dhawan' satellite and 'UNITYsat' will be the co-passengers.

'Anand' is built by Indian space startup, Pixxel, and 'Satish Dhawan Satellite' by Chennai-based Space Kidz India.

UNITYsat is a combination of three satellites designed and built as a joint development by Jeppiaar Institute of Technology, Sriperumpudur (JITsat), G.H. Raisoni College of Engineering, Nagpur (GHRCEsat) and Sri Shakthi Institute of Engineering and Technology, Coimbatore (Sri Shakthi Sat).

"PSLV-C51 marks the launch of the countrys first commercial private remote-sensing satellite (Anand) on an ISRO PSLV rocket", an ISRO official said.

Sivan had earlier described the upcoming mission as "special for us, special for the entire country" and beginning of a "new era of space (sector) reforms".

Pixxel CEO, Awais Ahmed had said: "We are elated with the fact that Indias first commercial private satellite will now launch on an Indian rocket.

This is not only a proud moment for us as an organisation but also as citizens to work with our nations capabilities".

Bengaluru-based Pixxel has said it plans to build a constellation of 30 satellites by 2023.

The company inaugurated it's new facility here last month.

According to Space Kidz India, Satish Dhawan satellite (SD SAT), named after former ISRO chairman Satish Dhawan, aimed to study space radiation and Magnetosphere and demonstrate the indigenously designed and developed nanosatellite components.

"The satellite also tests the capabilities of LoRa technology in Space which could be helpful for many applications in the future in short and M2M communication", it said.

In its first mission in 2021, India's space agency ISRO planned to launch on February 28 Brazilian satellite Amazonia-1 and three Indian payloads, including one built by a home-grown start-up.

In its first mission in 2021, India's space agency ISRO planned to launch on February 28 Brazilian satellite Amazonia-1 and three Indian payloads, including one built by a home-grown start-up. The satellites are slated to be launched onboard the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) C-51 at 10.28 am from the Sriharikota spaceport, over 100 kms from Chennai. Secretary in the Department of Space and Chairman of Bengaluru-headquartered ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) K Sivan confirmed the PSLV-C51 schedule to PTI on Friday. Amazonia-1, reportedly the first earth observation satellite entirely developed by Brazil, is the primary payload. 'Anand', 'Satish Dhawan' satellite and 'UNITYsat' will be the co-passengers. 'Anand' is built by Indian space startup, Pixxel, and 'Satish Dhawan Satellite' by Chennai-based Space Kidz India. UNITYsat is a combination of three satellites designed and built as a joint development by Jeppiaar Institute of Technology, Sriperumpudur (JITsat), G.H. Raisoni College of Engineering, Nagpur (GHRCEsat) and Sri Shakthi Institute of Engineering and Technology, Coimbatore (Sri Shakthi Sat). "PSLV-C51 marks the launch of the countrys first commercial private remote-sensing satellite (Anand) on an ISRO PSLV rocket", an ISRO official said. Sivan had earlier described the upcoming mission as "special for us, special for the entire country" and beginning of a "new era of space (sector) reforms". Pixxel CEO, Awais Ahmed had said: "We are elated with the fact that Indias first commercial private satellite will now launch on an Indian rocket. This is not only a proud moment for us as an organisation but also as citizens to work with our nations capabilities". Bengaluru-based Pixxel has said it plans to build a constellation of 30 satellites by 2023. The company inaugurated it's new facility here last month. According to Space Kidz India, Satish Dhawan satellite (SD SAT), named after former ISRO chairman Satish Dhawan, aimed to study space radiation and Magnetosphere and demonstrate the indigenously designed and developed nanosatellite components. "The satellite also tests the capabilities of LoRa technology in Space which could be helpful for many applications in the future in short and M2M communication", it said.

Brazilian, Indian startup satellite in ISRO's first mission in 2021 on February 28

Pharma major <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/oxford-researchers-to-combine-pfizer-astrazeneca-vaccines-in-two-short-doses-to-test-efficacy-361227">Pfizer</a> on Friday said it has decided to withdraw its application for Emergency Use Authorisation (EUA) of its COVID-19 vaccine in India.

Pfizer was the first pharmaceutical firm to seek an emergency use authorisation from the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) for its COVID-19 vaccine in the country, after it secured such clearance in the UK and Bahrain.

"In pursuance of the Emergency Use Authorisation of its COVID-19 vaccine, Pfizer participated in the Subject Expert Committee meeting of the Drug Regulatory Authority of India on February 3. Based on the deliberations at the meeting and our understanding of additional information that the regulator may need, the company has decided to withdraw its application at this time," a company spokesperson said in a statement.

Pfizer will continue to engage with the authority and resubmit its approval request with additional information as it becomes available in the near future, the statement said.

"Pfizer remains committed to making its vaccine available for use by the Government in India and to pursuing the requisite pathway for emergency use authorisation that enables the availability of this vaccine for any future deployment," the spokesperson said.

Pfizer in its application submitted to the drug regulator in December 2020, had sought permission to import the vaccine for sale and distribution in India, besides waiver of clinical trials on Indian population in accordance with the special provisions under the New Drugs and Clinical Trials Rules, 2019, official sources had said.

Pharma major Pfizer on Friday said it has decided to withdraw its application for Emergency Use Authorisation (EUA) of its COVID-19 vaccine in India. Pfizer was the first pharmaceutical firm to seek an emergency use authorisation from the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) for its COVID-19 vaccine in the country, after it secured such clearance in the UK and Bahrain.

Pharma major Pfizer on Friday said it has decided to withdraw its application for Emergency Use Authorisation (EUA) of its COVID-19 vaccine in India. Pfizer was the first pharmaceutical firm to seek an emergency use authorisation from the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) for its COVID-19 vaccine in the country, after it secured such clearance in the UK and Bahrain. "In pursuance of the Emergency Use Authorisation of its COVID-19 vaccine, Pfizer participated in the Subject Expert Committee meeting of the Drug Regulatory Authority of India on February 3. Based on the deliberations at the meeting and our understanding of additional information that the regulator may need, the company has decided to withdraw its application at this time," a company spokesperson said in a statement. Pfizer will continue to engage with the authority and resubmit its approval request with additional information as it becomes available in the near future, the statement said. "Pfizer remains committed to making its vaccine available for use by the Government in India and to pursuing the requisite pathway for emergency use authorisation that enables the availability of this vaccine for any future deployment," the spokesperson said. Pfizer in its application submitted to the drug regulator in December 2020, had sought permission to import the vaccine for sale and distribution in India, besides waiver of clinical trials on Indian population in accordance with the special provisions under the New Drugs and Clinical Trials Rules, 2019, official sources had said.

Pfizer withdraws Emergency Use Authorisation application in India

Even as India's covid vaccine supplies reached South Africa, Indian Prime Minister Modi has assured South African President Cyril Ramaphosa that India has the capacity to fulfill the needs of the African continent.&nbsp;

Both leaders spoke to each other on Thursday evening with the key focus being on the covid pandemic and cooperation on the Covid vaccines. The Indian PMO readout said, the 2 leaders discussed the "continuing challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic," and in this context, the "vaccination campaigns being undertaken in their respective countries."

PM reiterated to the South African President that "India's considerable productive capacity for pharmaceuticals and vaccines would continue to serve the needs of all countries, including those in Africa." Other than South Africa, Indian Covid vaccine supplies have reached Morocco and Egypt in the continent. &nbsp;New Delhi will also be giving one crore (10 million) doses of India-made COVID-19 vaccines to Africa under GAVI's covax facility.

During the Modi-Cyril talks, both leaders also discussed possibilities of collaboration between the 2 countries on "various international fora, to facilitate access and affordability of vaccines and medicines." This comes even as last year saw India and South Africa jointly proposing a proposal that calls for suspension of Intellectual property rights on COVID vaccine patent. The proposal has got many backers from developing countries, but the EU, US remain the main opponents of it.&nbsp;

India, which is the largest producer of vaccines in the world, has so far sent Covid vaccines to 16 countries. These are Bhutan, Maldives, Bangladesh, Nepal, Myanmar, Mauritius, Seychelles, Sri Lanka, the UAE, Brazil, Morocco, Bahrain, Oman, Egypt, Algeria, Kuwait and South Africa. &nbsp;56 lakh doses of India made vaccines have been gifted, while over100 lakh doses of vaccines have been sent commercially. In coming weeks, Indian vaccines are scheduled to reach CARICOM countries (the Caribbean), Pacific Island States, Nicaragua, Afghanistan, Mongolia etc.

Even as India's covid vaccine supplies reached South Africa, Indian Prime Minister Modi has assured South African President Cyril Ramaphosa that India has the capacity to fulfill the needs of the African continent.

Even as India's covid vaccine supplies reached South Africa, Indian Prime Minister Modi has assured South African President Cyril Ramaphosa that India has the capacity to fulfill the needs of the African continent. Both leaders spoke to each other on Thursday evening with the key focus being on the covid pandemic and cooperation on the Covid vaccines. The Indian PMO readout said, the 2 leaders discussed the "continuing challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic," and in this context, the "vaccination campaigns being undertaken in their respective countries." PM reiterated to the South African President that "India's considerable productive capacity for pharmaceuticals and vaccines would continue to serve the needs of all countries, including those in Africa." Other than South Africa, Indian Covid vaccine supplies have reached Morocco and Egypt in the continent. New Delhi will also be giving one crore (10 million) doses of India-made COVID-19 vaccines to Africa under GAVI's covax facility. During the Modi-Cyril talks, both leaders also discussed possibilities of collaboration between the 2 countries on "various international fora, to facilitate access and affordability of vaccines and medicines." This comes even as last year saw India and South Africa jointly proposing a proposal that calls for suspension of Intellectual property rights on COVID vaccine patent. The proposal has got many backers from developing countries, but the EU, US remain the main opponents of it. India, which is the largest producer of vaccines in the world, has so far sent Covid vaccines to 16 countries. These are Bhutan, Maldives, Bangladesh, Nepal, Myanmar, Mauritius, Seychelles, Sri Lanka, the UAE, Brazil, Morocco, Bahrain, Oman, Egypt, Algeria, Kuwait and South Africa. 56 lakh doses of India made vaccines have been gifted, while over100 lakh doses of vaccines have been sent commercially. In coming weeks, Indian vaccines are scheduled to reach CARICOM countries (the Caribbean), Pacific Island States, Nicaragua, Afghanistan, Mongolia etc.

India would serve Covid vaccine needs of Africa, PM Modi tells South African President Ramaphosa

Lobsang Sangay, Prime Minister in Exile of Tibet recently spoke to WION about China's abuses against Tibetans, and the larger role played by India in highlighting these abuses.

Sangay shed light on how India has helped Tibetans, saying that all the institutions that were destroyed in Tibet were rebuilt in India.

"We always accept that India has done the most for Tibetans because the largest number of Tibetans are here, all the monasteries and cultural institutions that were destroyed in Tibet were rebuilt here, and we have revived our civilisation here", he said.

But the PM in exile added how India can improve its strategy in dealing with the Tibetan crisis. 
 
"India also in some ways gave away Tibet when it was occupied in 1950s, India could have done a bit more... For eg - The media calls it "Indo-China border". When the Chinese troops came to Galwan Valley and crossed the river, and violence ensued, the media, and the intellectuals complained -"Why are they crossing the border, why are they here". But the fact is when you said Tibet is part of China, the Chinese troops will say "Yes, I'm coming to my territory because you say so", Sangay asserted.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/india-news/all-you-need-to-know-about-tibetan-elections-held-at-dharamshala-354468" hreflang="en">All you need to know about Tibetan elections held at Dharamshala</a>

He also urged India to not lose the "larger picture". He said the following - "When you have already given up 2.5 million square kilometres of land - almost two-third of India's land size, when you argue about one mountaintop, it sounds so small... India should not lose the larger picture. Historically, it was always a border between Tibet and India".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/india-news/china-wants-to-control-tibet-major-power-struggle-expected-after-demise-of-14th-dalai-lama-report-353319" hreflang="en">China wants to control Tibet, major power struggle expected after demise of 14th Dalai Lama: Report</a>

Sangay also added how only 75 Indian soldiers had to man the border when Tibet was in-charge.

"When Tibet was independent, only 75 Indian soldiers were guarding the border. India also has to accept unless you solve the Tibet issue, peace and harmony between India and China is not likely", he added.

Lobsang Sangay, Prime Minister in Exile of Tibet recently spoke to WION about China's abuses against Tibetans, and the larger role played by India in highlighting these abuses.

Lobsang Sangay, Prime Minister in Exile of Tibet recently spoke to WION about China's abuses against Tibetans, and the larger role played by India in highlighting these abuses. Sangay shed light on how India has helped Tibetans, saying that all the institutions that were destroyed in Tibet were rebuilt in India. "We always accept that India has done the most for Tibetans because the largest number of Tibetans are here, all the monasteries and cultural institutions that were destroyed in Tibet were rebuilt here, and we have revived our civilisation here", he said. But the PM in exile added how India can improve its strategy in dealing with the Tibetan crisis. "India also in some ways gave away Tibet when it was occupied in 1950s, India could have done a bit more... For eg - The media calls it "Indo-China border". When the Chinese troops came to Galwan Valley and crossed the river, and violence ensued, the media, and the intellectuals complained -"Why are they crossing the border, why are they here". But the fact is when you said Tibet is part of China, the Chinese troops will say "Yes, I'm coming to my territory because you say so", Sangay asserted. Also read: All you need to know about Tibetan elections held at Dharamshala He also urged India to not lose the "larger picture". He said the following - "When you have already given up 2.5 million square kilometres of land - almost two-third of India's land size, when you argue about one mountaintop, it sounds so small... India should not lose the larger picture. Historically, it was always a border between Tibet and India". Also read: China wants to control Tibet, major power struggle expected after demise of 14th Dalai Lama: Report Sangay also added how only 75 Indian soldiers had to man the border when Tibet was in-charge. "When Tibet was independent, only 75 Indian soldiers were guarding the border. India also has to accept unless you solve the Tibet issue, peace and harmony between India and China is not likely", he added.

'India has done the most for Tibetans', Prime Minister-in-exile Lobsang Sangay tells WION

As many as 7,139 Indian prisoners, including undertrials, are lodged in various jails around the world, the External Affairs Ministry said on Thursday.

Saudi Arabia has the highest number of 1,599 Indian prisoners, followed by the United Arab Emirates with 898 and Nepal having 886 inmates, according to information provided by Minister of State for External Affairs V Muraleedharan in Rajya Sabha.

"As per the information available with the ministry, the number of Indian prisoners in foreign jails as on December 31, 2020, is 7,139, which also includes undertrials," he said responding to a question.

He said due to strong privacy laws prevailing in many countries; the local authorities do not share information on prisoners unless the person concerned consents to the disclosure of such details.

"Even countries which share information do not generally provide detailed information about the foreign nationals imprisoned," he said.

Muraleedharan said Indian missions and posts abroad remain vigilant and closely monitor incidents of Indian nationals being put in jail for alleged violation of local laws.

"Missions and posts also maintain a local panel of lawyers where Indian community is in sizable numbers," he added.

According to the details provided by the minister, 548 Indians are languishing in jails in Malaysia and 536 are lodged in Kuwaiti prisons.

(With inputs from agencies)

As many as 7,139 Indian prisoners, including undertrials, are lodged in various jails around the world, the External Affairs Ministry said on Thursday. Saudi Arabia has the highest number of 1,599 Indian prisoners, followed by the United Arab Emirates with 898 and Nepal having 886 inmates, according to information provided by Minister of State for External Affairs V Muraleedharan in Rajya Sabha.

As many as 7,139 Indian prisoners, including undertrials, are lodged in various jails around the world, the External Affairs Ministry said on Thursday. Saudi Arabia has the highest number of 1,599 Indian prisoners, followed by the United Arab Emirates with 898 and Nepal having 886 inmates, according to information provided by Minister of State for External Affairs V Muraleedharan in Rajya Sabha. "As per the information available with the ministry, the number of Indian prisoners in foreign jails as on December 31, 2020, is 7,139, which also includes undertrials," he said responding to a question. He said due to strong privacy laws prevailing in many countries; the local authorities do not share information on prisoners unless the person concerned consents to the disclosure of such details. "Even countries which share information do not generally provide detailed information about the foreign nationals imprisoned," he said. Muraleedharan said Indian missions and posts abroad remain vigilant and closely monitor incidents of Indian nationals being put in jail for alleged violation of local laws. "Missions and posts also maintain a local panel of lawyers where Indian community is in sizable numbers," he added. According to the details provided by the minister, 548 Indians are languishing in jails in Malaysia and 536 are lodged in Kuwaiti prisons. (With inputs from agencies)

7,139 Indian prisoners lodged in foreign jails: MEA

Union Health Secretary Rajesh Bhushan has said that 97 per cent people who have received COVID-19 vaccine are satisfied and the results are based on the feedback registered by vaccinated people through IT Ministry's feedback platform.&nbsp;

He said, Madhya Pradesh ranks first in immunising the state's healthcare workers and the state has immunised 73 per cent of its health care workers in just 18 days.&nbsp;

“In all, 5,12,128 have responded and over 97% of them said they were satisfied with the vaccination experience," he said.

"India has become the fastest nation to reach 4 million Covid-19 vaccinations. It took only 18 days to administer the first 4 million vaccines,” said Union Health Secretary Rajesh Bhushan.

He added: “While we are doing the immunization of healthcare and frontline workers across the country, we are using 1,239 private as vaccination session sites. At the same time, we are using 5,912 public hospitals as vaccination sites.”

On 30 January 2020, India recorded its first coronavirus case. A year has passed since, and vaccinations are gradually picking up. After losing more than 154,000 people to the pandemic, India has now become the fastest in the world to give more than 4 million vaccine doses.

(With inputs from agencies)

Union Health Secretary Rajesh Bhushan has said that 97 per cent people who have received COVID-19 vaccine are satisfied and the results are based on the feedback registered by vaccinated people through IT Ministry's feedback platform.

Union Health Secretary Rajesh Bhushan has said that 97 per cent people who have received COVID-19 vaccine are satisfied and the results are based on the feedback registered by vaccinated people through IT Ministry's feedback platform. He said, Madhya Pradesh ranks first in immunising the state's healthcare workers and the state has immunised 73 per cent of its health care workers in just 18 days. “In all, 5,12,128 have responded and over 97% of them said they were satisfied with the vaccination experience," he said. "India has become the fastest nation to reach 4 million Covid-19 vaccinations. It took only 18 days to administer the first 4 million vaccines,” said Union Health Secretary Rajesh Bhushan. He added: “While we are doing the immunization of healthcare and frontline workers across the country, we are using 1,239 private as vaccination session sites. At the same time, we are using 5,912 public hospitals as vaccination sites.” On 30 January 2020, India recorded its first coronavirus case. A year has passed since, and vaccinations are gradually picking up. After losing more than 154,000 people to the pandemic, India has now become the fastest in the world to give more than 4 million vaccine doses. (With inputs from agencies)

Govt says 97% of those who took Covid-19 shots are satisfied with experience

A large proportion of Indian population still remains vulnerable to novel coronavirus, the third serosurvey conducted by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has revealed.

According to Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)'s third national serosurvey over 21 per cent of the population, aged 10 years and above, showed evidence of past exposure to COVID-19.

Sero-surveys are conducted by taking blood samples and checking for a specific class of antibodies called IgG that appear within two weeks of an infection.

The prevalence of the infection has been found among 25.7 per cent of healthcare workers, according to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) third national serosurvey conducted between December 17 last year and January 8.

Presenting the findings of the survey at a media briefing, ICMR Director General Dr Balram Bhargava said 21.4 per cent of the 28,589 people, aged 18 years and above, surveyed during the period showed evidence of past exposure to the coronavirus infection. While 25.3 per cent of children aged 10 to 17 years from the same number of surveyed population have had the disease, he said.

Urban slums (31.7 per cent) and urban non-slums (26.2 per cent) had a higher SARS-CoV-2 prevalence than those in rural areas (19.1 per cent), Bhargava said, adding that the seroprevalence was 23.4 per cent among individuals above 60 years of age.

Besides, blood samples of 7,171 healthcare workers were also collected during the same period and the seroprevalence was found to be 25.7 per cent, the ICMR director general said.

"Overall seroprevalence is 21.5 per cent of the population.A large proportion of the population still remains vulnerable, which calls for no complacency in following COVID-19-appropriate behaviour by all. This apart, it points out the necessity of vaccine," Bhargava said.

The seroprevalence was found to be 26.6 per cent among surveyed doctors, 25.4 per cent among paramedical staff, 25.3 per cent among field staff and 24.9 among administration staff, he said.?? ? "Thus, the prevalence of the infection has been found amongst 25.7 per cent of healthcare workers," Bhargava said.

The latest survey has been conducted in the same 700 villages and wards in 70 districts of 21 states which were selected during the first and second rounds of the serosurvey held previously in May-June and August-September last year respectively.

Among the surveyed male population, the sero-prevalence was 20.3 per cent, while it was 22.7 per cent among the surveyed female population.

The seroprevalence was 19.9 per cent in the age group of 18-44 years, 23.4 per cent among 45-60 years and 23.4 per cent among the surveyed population above 60 years of age.

On the coronavirus situation in the country, Union?Health Secretary Rajesh Bhushan said India's COVID-19 cumulative positivity rate has declined to 5.42 per cent.?The weekly positivity rate (last week) was recorded at 1.82 per cent, he said.

Bhushan said that 47 districts have not reported any new case of COVID-19 and 251 districts have not registered any new deaths in the last three weeks.

Two states -- Kerala (69,365) and Maharashtra (38,762) -- account for 70 per cent of the total active cases in the country, he said. The worldwide COVID-19 situation is still worrisome, Bhushan said, adding that some countries have seen multiple peaks, while some have seen surge in cases at least twice.

"In India, cases are declining. But we still have to follow COVID-19-appropriate behaviour," the Union Health Secretary said.

While countries like the US, the UK, Brazil, Germany and Russia have shown a surge in deaths for a second time, India is seeing a decline in the number of COVID-19 deaths.

Niti Aayog Member V K Paul said the current serosurvey shows that even now, the infection can spread to more than 75 per cent people.

He stated that hence, it is very crucial to strictly following COVID-appropriate behaviour.

We have seen in many countries how the graph came down but suddenly saw a spike. A big proportion of our population is still vulnerable, he said.

However, Paul also mentioned that through the national mission for vaccination, "we will be able to overcome the pandemic in a better way".

He appealed to the media and the public to be a part of this drive. ?I request you to continue to promote positive behaviour and acceptance of vaccines, and see that science is driving the whole process of pandemic fight in this great country, Paul said.

He also mentioned that the speed with which 45 per cent of healthcare workers (HCWs) have already been vaccinated is evidence that the hesitancy has gone and confidence has grown among the citizens and HCWs.

(With inputs from agencies)

A large proportion of Indian population still remains vulnerable to novel coronavirus, the third serosurvey conducted by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has revealed.

A large proportion of Indian population still remains vulnerable to novel coronavirus, the third serosurvey conducted by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has revealed. According to Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)'s third national serosurvey over 21 per cent of the population, aged 10 years and above, showed evidence of past exposure to COVID-19. Sero-surveys are conducted by taking blood samples and checking for a specific class of antibodies called IgG that appear within two weeks of an infection. The prevalence of the infection has been found among 25.7 per cent of healthcare workers, according to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) third national serosurvey conducted between December 17 last year and January 8. Presenting the findings of the survey at a media briefing, ICMR Director General Dr Balram Bhargava said 21.4 per cent of the 28,589 people, aged 18 years and above, surveyed during the period showed evidence of past exposure to the coronavirus infection. While 25.3 per cent of children aged 10 to 17 years from the same number of surveyed population have had the disease, he said. Urban slums (31.7 per cent) and urban non-slums (26.2 per cent) had a higher SARS-CoV-2 prevalence than those in rural areas (19.1 per cent), Bhargava said, adding that the seroprevalence was 23.4 per cent among individuals above 60 years of age. Besides, blood samples of 7,171 healthcare workers were also collected during the same period and the seroprevalence was found to be 25.7 per cent, the ICMR director general said. "Overall seroprevalence is 21.5 per cent of the population.A large proportion of the population still remains vulnerable, which calls for no complacency in following COVID-19-appropriate behaviour by all. This apart, it points out the necessity of vaccine," Bhargava said. The seroprevalence was found to be 26.6 per cent among surveyed doctors, 25.4 per cent among paramedical staff, 25.3 per cent among field staff and 24.9 among administration staff, he said.?? ? "Thus, the prevalence of the infection has been found amongst 25.7 per cent of healthcare workers," Bhargava said. The latest survey has been conducted in the same 700 villages and wards in 70 districts of 21 states which were selected during the first and second rounds of the serosurvey held previously in May-June and August-September last year respectively. Among the surveyed male population, the sero-prevalence was 20.3 per cent, while it was 22.7 per cent among the surveyed female population. The seroprevalence was 19.9 per cent in the age group of 18-44 years, 23.4 per cent among 45-60 years and 23.4 per cent among the surveyed population above 60 years of age. On the coronavirus situation in the country, Union?Health Secretary Rajesh Bhushan said India's COVID-19 cumulative positivity rate has declined to 5.42 per cent.?The weekly positivity rate (last week) was recorded at 1.82 per cent, he said. Bhushan said that 47 districts have not reported any new case of COVID-19 and 251 districts have not registered any new deaths in the last three weeks. Two states -- Kerala (69,365) and Maharashtra (38,762) -- account for 70 per cent of the total active cases in the country, he said. The worldwide COVID-19 situation is still worrisome, Bhushan said, adding that some countries have seen multiple peaks, while some have seen surge in cases at least twice. "In India, cases are declining. But we still have to follow COVID-19-appropriate behaviour," the Union Health Secretary said. While countries like the US, the UK, Brazil, Germany and Russia have shown a surge in deaths for a second time, India is seeing a decline in the number of COVID-19 deaths. Niti Aayog Member V K Paul said the current serosurvey shows that even now, the infection can spread to more than 75 per cent people. He stated that hence, it is very crucial to strictly following COVID-appropriate behaviour. We have seen in many countries how the graph came down but suddenly saw a spike. A big proportion of our population is still vulnerable, he said. However, Paul also mentioned that through the national mission for vaccination, "we will be able to overcome the pandemic in a better way". He appealed to the media and the public to be a part of this drive. ?I request you to continue to promote positive behaviour and acceptance of vaccines, and see that science is driving the whole process of pandemic fight in this great country, Paul said. He also mentioned that the speed with which 45 per cent of healthcare workers (HCWs) have already been vaccinated is evidence that the hesitancy has gone and confidence has grown among the citizens and HCWs. (With inputs from agencies)

Sero survey shows large proportion of India still vulnerable to covid-19: ICMR

The Indian Coast Guard, the fourth largest in the world, celebrated its 45th Raising Day on Monday. Since its inception, ICG has developed into a formidable force with 156 ships and 62 aircraft in its inventory.

Indian Coast Guard steps into its 45th year, held celebratory event in Chennai

The Indian government on Wednesday informed the Lok Sabha that it is "carefully monitoring" all developments on the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-plans-dam-on-brahmaputra-to-offset-chinese-construction-upstream-346723">Brahmaputra</a> river over China's plans for hydropower development on the lower reaches of the Brahmaputra river.

MoS external affairs V Muraleedharan told India's lower House of Parliament that the&nbsp;government has consistently conveyed its views and concerns to Chinese authorities and has urged them to ensure interests of downstream states aren't harmed.

"Various issues relating to trans-border rivers are discussed with China under institutionalized Expert Level Mechanism established in 2006 and through diplomatic channels," the minister said.

Chinese state media had reported earlier that authorities could build up to 60 GW of hydropower capacity on a section of the Brahmaputra which has alerted Indian officials. According to reports, China is planning to build a major hydropower project on Brahmaputra river in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-prepares-to-build-dam-on-brahmaputra-river-in-tibet-india-raises-concern-346417">Tibet</a> which was reportedly presented in the 14th Five-Year Plan. The construction is reportedly set to begin this year.

The Central Committee of the ruling Communist Party of China (CPC) had said that "There is no parallel in history... it will be a historic opportunity for the Chinese hydropower industry."

"The Chinese side has conveyed to us on several occasions that they are only undertaking run-of-the-river hydropower projects, which do not involve diversion of the waters of the Brahmaputra," MoS external affairs said.

"We intend to remain engaged with China on the issue of trans-border rivers to safeguard our interests," the minister told the Lok Sabha in a written reply.

The Indian government on Wednesday informed the Lok Sabha that it is "carefully monitoring" all developments on the Brahmaputra river over China's plans for hydropower development on the lower reaches of the Brahmaputra river.

The Indian government on Wednesday informed the Lok Sabha that it is "carefully monitoring" all developments on the Brahmaputra river over China's plans for hydropower development on the lower reaches of the Brahmaputra river. MoS external affairs V Muraleedharan told India's lower House of Parliament that the government has consistently conveyed its views and concerns to Chinese authorities and has urged them to ensure interests of downstream states aren't harmed. "Various issues relating to trans-border rivers are discussed with China under institutionalized Expert Level Mechanism established in 2006 and through diplomatic channels," the minister said. Chinese state media had reported earlier that authorities could build up to 60 GW of hydropower capacity on a section of the Brahmaputra which has alerted Indian officials. According to reports, China is planning to build a major hydropower project on Brahmaputra river in Tibet which was reportedly presented in the 14th Five-Year Plan. The construction is reportedly set to begin this year. The Central Committee of the ruling Communist Party of China (CPC) had said that "There is no parallel in history... it will be a historic opportunity for the Chinese hydropower industry." "The Chinese side has conveyed to us on several occasions that they are only undertaking run-of-the-river hydropower projects, which do not involve diversion of the waters of the Brahmaputra," MoS external affairs said. "We intend to remain engaged with China on the issue of trans-border rivers to safeguard our interests," the minister told the Lok Sabha in a written reply.

Brahmaputra row: Engaged with China over trans-border rivers, says minister to Lok Sabha

Delhi police on Thursday said that Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg has not been named in the FIR after a&nbsp;case was registered against unknown persons in "toolkit" social media post controversy.

The Police registered an FIR with its Cyber Cell to investigate an "international conspiracy" to defame the country, in garb of support of the farmers' protest. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/after-rihanna-greta-thunberg-tweets-about-farmers-protest-in-india-361006">Also read | After Rihanna, Greta Thunberg tweets about farmers protest in India</a> 
 
Greta on February 2 tweeted calling on people to show solidarity with the ongoing farmers’ protest in India.

Addressing a press conference here, Delhi Police Special Commissioner Praveer Ranjan said they had registered a case against creators of "toolkit" and no one had been named in the FIR.&nbsp;

"We have not named anybody in the FIR. It is only against the creators of the `toolkit` which is a matter of investigation. Delhi Police will be investigating that case," he said.

He was asked if the police have named Greta Thunberg in the FIR. Ranjan said farmer protests at Delhi borders have been going on for days and Delhi Police has been closely monitoring several social media accounts.

"We have identified some 300 accounts spreading dissatisfaction and disharmony towards the Government of India. `Toolkit` account was being run by a group of Khalistanis. They had decided to conduct a digital strike post the Republic Day incident," he said.

"We have recovered a document about the planned execution. We have found out that is a copycat execution. As of now, we have registered cases against the authors of that account. The case has been handed over to the cyber cell.&nbsp;

Investigations are underway," he added. Thunberg had posted "toolkit" in a tweet on Wednesday which she later deleted.The teen climate activist had also extended support to protest by farmer unions on the borders of Delhi against the new farm laws.

"We stand in solidarity with the FarmersProtest in India," she had said in a tweet. 
 
Meanwhile, she tweeted that she still stands with the cause of the farmers of India.

"I still #StandWithFarmers and support their peaceful protest. No amount of hate, threats or violations of human rights will ever change that. #FarmersProtest," the teen activist tweeted.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
I still <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StandWithFarmers?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StandWithFarmers</a> and support their peaceful protest. 
No amount of hate, threats or violations of human rights will ever change that. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FarmersProtest?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FarmersProtest</a>
— Greta Thunberg (@GretaThunberg) <a href="https://twitter.com/GretaThunberg/status/1357282507616645122?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 4, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The External Affairs Ministry had said on Wednesday that protests by farmer unions against new farm laws must be seen in the context of India`s democratic ethos and polity, and the efforts of the government and the concerned farmer groups to resolve the impasse.&nbsp;

It had said that the temptation of sensationalist social media hashtags and comments, especially when resorted to by celebrities and others, is neither accurate nor responsible.&nbsp;

"Before rushing to comment on such matters, we would urge that the facts be ascertained, and a proper understanding of the issues at hand be undertaken," the ministry said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Delhi police on Thursday said that Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg has not been named in the FIR after a case was registered against unknown persons in "toolkit" social media post controversy.

Delhi police on Thursday said that Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg has not been named in the FIR after a case was registered against unknown persons in "toolkit" social media post controversy. The Police registered an FIR with its Cyber Cell to investigate an "international conspiracy" to defame the country, in garb of support of the farmers' protest. Also read | After Rihanna, Greta Thunberg tweets about farmers protest in India Greta on February 2 tweeted calling on people to show solidarity with the ongoing farmers’ protest in India. Addressing a press conference here, Delhi Police Special Commissioner Praveer Ranjan said they had registered a case against creators of "toolkit" and no one had been named in the FIR. "We have not named anybody in the FIR. It is only against the creators of the `toolkit` which is a matter of investigation. Delhi Police will be investigating that case," he said. He was asked if the police have named Greta Thunberg in the FIR. Ranjan said farmer protests at Delhi borders have been going on for days and Delhi Police has been closely monitoring several social media accounts. "We have identified some 300 accounts spreading dissatisfaction and disharmony towards the Government of India. `Toolkit` account was being run by a group of Khalistanis. They had decided to conduct a digital strike post the Republic Day incident," he said. "We have recovered a document about the planned execution. We have found out that is a copycat execution. As of now, we have registered cases against the authors of that account. The case has been handed over to the cyber cell. Investigations are underway," he added. Thunberg had posted "toolkit" in a tweet on Wednesday which she later deleted.The teen climate activist had also extended support to protest by farmer unions on the borders of Delhi against the new farm laws. "We stand in solidarity with the FarmersProtest in India," she had said in a tweet. Meanwhile, she tweeted that she still stands with the cause of the farmers of India. "I still #StandWithFarmers and support their peaceful protest. No amount of hate, threats or violations of human rights will ever change that. #FarmersProtest," the teen activist tweeted. I still #StandWithFarmers and support their peaceful protest. No amount of hate, threats or violations of human rights will ever change that. #FarmersProtest — Greta Thunberg (@GretaThunberg) February 4, 2021 × The External Affairs Ministry had said on Wednesday that protests by farmer unions against new farm laws must be seen in the context of India`s democratic ethos and polity, and the efforts of the government and the concerned farmer groups to resolve the impasse. It had said that the temptation of sensationalist social media hashtags and comments, especially when resorted to by celebrities and others, is neither accurate nor responsible. "Before rushing to comment on such matters, we would urge that the facts be ascertained, and a proper understanding of the issues at hand be undertaken," the ministry said. (With inputs from agencies)

'No amount of hate, threats will..': Greta Thunberg after Delhi Police books creators of her 'toolkit'

India has called for a balanced approach on Myanmar at the United Nations Security Council meeting that took place on Tuesday even as the UK-backed draft is still being considered. New Delhi's balanced approach, which has been perceived as a very constructive one, calls for support for the democratic process in the country, given it is a neighboring country.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-myanmar-citizens-reach-out-to-wion-361173/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The UNSC has not yet been able to come up with any statement on the coup in the country when the meeting took place on 2nd February. In the aftermath of the bloodless coup staged by the military in Myanmar, India's Ministry of External Affairs in a statement had expressed its "deep concern", calling for upholding of the "rule of law and the democratic process".

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/will-do-everything-possible-to-make-sure-myanmar-coup-fails-un-chief-361184">Will do everything possible to make sure Myanmar coup fails: UN chief</a>

India has a close relationship with the country. While Aung San Suu Kyi's India connect is well known, including her education in India and through her father Aung San, New Delhi has been able to build close military cooperation with Myanmar's military--especially in terms of counter-insurgency operations in border areas. Last year, Myanmar inducted INS Sindhuvir which was given by India. It was inducted as UMS Minye Theinkhathu and is the country's only submarine.

UK is the president of the core UN body for this month and as the chair, decides on the key issues that can be raised and scheduling of the talks on global issues. UK Foreign secretary Dominic Raab in a tweet had said, "As President of the @UN Security Council we brought forward an emergency meeting on Myanmar to fast-track necessary discussions on what should be done."

The draft has called for the removal of the state of emergency and reinstatement of democratic norms, according to media reports quoting the leaked document. While UNSC is working on a common press statement on the coup in the country, especially in the face of differing views expressed primarily by China, it is expected that perhaps in the next stage, talks may resume to put more pressure if there is no progress. However, it is clear that forming a consensus on this contentious issue will be a difficult task. 
&nbsp;

India has called for a balanced approach on Myanmar at the United Nations Security Council meeting that took place on Tuesday even as the UK-backed draft is still being considered.

India has called for a balanced approach on Myanmar at the United Nations Security Council meeting that took place on Tuesday even as the UK-backed draft is still being considered. New Delhi's balanced approach, which has been perceived as a very constructive one, calls for support for the democratic process in the country, given it is a neighboring country. Watch | The UNSC has not yet been able to come up with any statement on the coup in the country when the meeting took place on 2nd February. In the aftermath of the bloodless coup staged by the military in Myanmar, India's Ministry of External Affairs in a statement had expressed its "deep concern", calling for upholding of the "rule of law and the democratic process". Also read | Will do everything possible to make sure Myanmar coup fails: UN chief India has a close relationship with the country. While Aung San Suu Kyi's India connect is well known, including her education in India and through her father Aung San, New Delhi has been able to build close military cooperation with Myanmar's military--especially in terms of counter-insurgency operations in border areas. Last year, Myanmar inducted INS Sindhuvir which was given by India. It was inducted as UMS Minye Theinkhathu and is the country's only submarine. UK is the president of the core UN body for this month and as the chair, decides on the key issues that can be raised and scheduling of the talks on global issues. UK Foreign secretary Dominic Raab in a tweet had said, "As President of the @UN Security Council we brought forward an emergency meeting on Myanmar to fast-track necessary discussions on what should be done." The draft has called for the removal of the state of emergency and reinstatement of democratic norms, according to media reports quoting the leaked document. While UNSC is working on a common press statement on the coup in the country, especially in the face of differing views expressed primarily by China, it is expected that perhaps in the next stage, talks may resume to put more pressure if there is no progress. However, it is clear that forming a consensus on this contentious issue will be a difficult task.

India backs a balanced approach on Myanmar at UNSC

Poland has lauded India's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">vaccine </a>diplomacy, with its envoy in Delhi, Adam Burakowski saying, "We are happy that your country is becoming more active and vaccine diplomacy is very important". Speaking to our Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Burakowski hoped the Air Transport bubble between the 2 countries can be started soon, pointing out, "We have applied for an air bubble with India and we are waiting for the reply. " LOT Polish Airlines had started a direct flight between Warsaw and Delhi in September 2019 but this was halted due to Covid-19 pandemic in 2020.

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/brazil-starts-vaccination-drive-with-indian-jab-359042/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

&nbsp;

He spoke on several subjects, like Economic and Political ties with India and China and his country's role in Afghanistan. On Afghanistan, the Polish envoy to Delhi, who is also accredited to Kabul said, "We want a peaceful and stable Afghanistan. This is a fantastic country. My dream is someday Polish tourists can visit this country". It is interesting to know, Poland prints Afghanistan's currency of 10 and 20 denominations.

Sidhant Sibal: How has been the cooperation between India and Poland has been when it comes to dealing with COVID crisis? 
Adam Burakowski : Covid has impacted the whole world in a very negative away. Poland is cooperating with India from the beginning. From the first lockdown in March, we cooperated in rescue flights. Few rescue flights were operated for Polish citizens and Vande Bharat flights for Indian Citizens stranded in Poland. It was a very good example of common cooperation against threats all over the world. Nowadays, the situation in the whole of Europe is much worse than India unfortunately. Many lockdowns in many countries. In Poland, we have a national quarantine. Many things are closed, restaurants are closed, hotels are closed, and also if you go to Polish cities, you don't see many people on the streets. This is very hard. We have started a program on vaccination. We are following the EU program and we are using vaccines accepted by the EU. One of them is AstraZeneca which is also produced in India and maybe some cooperation in the future. No cooperation as of now and we have already vaccinated one million out of 38 million Polish population and we hope it will go smoothly. And we hope lockdown is over and we can restore our normal activities and also Polish India ties. India is becoming more and more important in Polish thinking about the world.

Sidhant Sibal: How has been the connectivity between the 2 countries amid the pandemic. Has there been any transport bubble, which has opened? 
Adam Burakowski: We inaugurated direct flight from Delhi to Warsaw by LOT Polish Airlines in Sept 2019. So after half a year of this very successful flight connection, &nbsp;the occupancy was over 90%, we had to cancel it because of Covid. While there were some rescue flights by LOT Polish Airlines. Nowadays, we don't operate with passengers, it operates with cargo to Delhi and Mumbai. We have applied for an air bubble with India and we are waiting for the reply. We hope that when India decides to be more open, Poland and Warsaw will be on their list because we are ready to work on strengthening our ties and our cooperation. LOT flight is ready to fly to India at any moment and it will be solved very soon. There are around 4000 Indian students in Poland and leading Polish universities give program in the English language. We are still giving students visas so that students can go and start studies and we want to increase this. This will be more easy when we reopen the direct flight.

Sidhant Sibal: How do you see India's vaccine diplomacy and any cooperation on the vaccine front. Any comments on the ongoing tiff between EU and AstraZeneca. 
Adam Burakowski: India, I think made a very good move to become one of the largest producers of the vaccine in the world. We observed India provided vaccine to south Asia, neighboring countries, and also some countries which are some distant. This program went quickly and rapidly and helps many countries and millions of people. We see that the Govt of India has some plan to be more active in this in the world. We are very hopeful that India will play a bigger role. India shares so many values with Poland and Europe. We are happy that your country is becoming more active and vaccine diplomacy is a very important, very helpful tool for the world. Concerning EU AstraZeneca, I hope it will be solved very soon. And maybe, more quantity of AstraZeneca will be produced in India, but this is a question better to ask AstraZeneca company. We all hope vaccines in the world go smoothly and quickly.

Sidhant Sibal: On ties with India, how do you see the overall relationship when it comes to Europe. Also on China, do you see ties. So overall, India and China, and Poland's ties with both countries. This even as China has been aggressive with the countries in the region.

Adam Burakowski: China is important to partner with Poland and we have many ties with China, especially economic, political. We have totally different political system, we have a democratic system. But we cooperate on economics, there is also a train route, that takes cargo. We see the European Union prepared an agreement on investment with China. We were not so hurrying to have this agreement before some consultations especially our transatlantic partners, US and new admin of Joe Biden. We strongly advocate transatlantic ties. Concerning India, we hope India will be closer and closer to European Union as a whole. We have big expectations from the India EU summit that will take place in Portugal in May this year. Also, in Poland and central Europe group Visegrád, we want to show India can also have good and better relations with us, especially economy, students you mentioned, connectivity. We have some hopes of increasing cooperation with India in Cybersecurity. Ongoing India EU dialogue on cyber issues.

Sidhant Sibal: Poland has played an important role in Afghanistan if you can elaborate on that? 
Adam Burakowski: Poland always supported Freedom and stability in Afghanistan. Polish soldiers have been part of the missions, we have contributed not only militarily but also development projects. Especially in Ghazni and northern Areas. We strongly support freedom and stability in Afghanistan. And we not only support verbally but also in action. We have a Polish military contingent that is part of a resolute support mission. Poland has just printed the banknotes for Afghanistan. The banknote of 10 and 20 Afghani. This also example of very good cooperation with Afghanistan. We want a peaceful and stable Afghanistan. This is a fantastic country. My dream is someday Polish tourists can visit this country and enjoy the atmosphere, the food, views, the mountains. I hope the Afghan elite can set up some long-lasting solution for peace and stability. 
&nbsp;

Poland has lauded India's vaccine diplomacy, with its envoy in Delhi, Adam Burakowski saying, "We are happy that your country is becoming more active and vaccine diplomacy is very important".

Poland has lauded India's vaccine diplomacy, with its envoy in Delhi, Adam Burakowski saying, "We are happy that your country is becoming more active and vaccine diplomacy is very important". Speaking to our Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Burakowski hoped the Air Transport bubble between the 2 countries can be started soon, pointing out, "We have applied for an air bubble with India and we are waiting for the reply. " LOT Polish Airlines had started a direct flight between Warsaw and Delhi in September 2019 but this was halted due to Covid-19 pandemic in 2020. Watch | He spoke on several subjects, like Economic and Political ties with India and China and his country's role in Afghanistan. On Afghanistan, the Polish envoy to Delhi, who is also accredited to Kabul said, "We want a peaceful and stable Afghanistan. This is a fantastic country. My dream is someday Polish tourists can visit this country". It is interesting to know, Poland prints Afghanistan's currency of 10 and 20 denominations. Sidhant Sibal: How has been the cooperation between India and Poland has been when it comes to dealing with COVID crisis? Adam Burakowski : Covid has impacted the whole world in a very negative away. Poland is cooperating with India from the beginning. From the first lockdown in March, we cooperated in rescue flights. Few rescue flights were operated for Polish citizens and Vande Bharat flights for Indian Citizens stranded in Poland. It was a very good example of common cooperation against threats all over the world. Nowadays, the situation in the whole of Europe is much worse than India unfortunately. Many lockdowns in many countries. In Poland, we have a national quarantine. Many things are closed, restaurants are closed, hotels are closed, and also if you go to Polish cities, you don't see many people on the streets. This is very hard. We have started a program on vaccination. We are following the EU program and we are using vaccines accepted by the EU. One of them is AstraZeneca which is also produced in India and maybe some cooperation in the future. No cooperation as of now and we have already vaccinated one million out of 38 million Polish population and we hope it will go smoothly. And we hope lockdown is over and we can restore our normal activities and also Polish India ties. India is becoming more and more important in Polish thinking about the world. Sidhant Sibal: How has been the connectivity between the 2 countries amid the pandemic. Has there been any transport bubble, which has opened? Adam Burakowski: We inaugurated direct flight from Delhi to Warsaw by LOT Polish Airlines in Sept 2019. So after half a year of this very successful flight connection, the occupancy was over 90%, we had to cancel it because of Covid. While there were some rescue flights by LOT Polish Airlines. Nowadays, we don't operate with passengers, it operates with cargo to Delhi and Mumbai. We have applied for an air bubble with India and we are waiting for the reply. We hope that when India decides to be more open, Poland and Warsaw will be on their list because we are ready to work on strengthening our ties and our cooperation. LOT flight is ready to fly to India at any moment and it will be solved very soon. There are around 4000 Indian students in Poland and leading Polish universities give program in the English language. We are still giving students visas so that students can go and start studies and we want to increase this. This will be more easy when we reopen the direct flight. Sidhant Sibal: How do you see India's vaccine diplomacy and any cooperation on the vaccine front. Any comments on the ongoing tiff between EU and AstraZeneca. Adam Burakowski: India, I think made a very good move to become one of the largest producers of the vaccine in the world. We observed India provided vaccine to south Asia, neighboring countries, and also some countries which are some distant. This program went quickly and rapidly and helps many countries and millions of people. We see that the Govt of India has some plan to be more active in this in the world. We are very hopeful that India will play a bigger role. India shares so many values with Poland and Europe. We are happy that your country is becoming more active and vaccine diplomacy is a very important, very helpful tool for the world. Concerning EU AstraZeneca, I hope it will be solved very soon. And maybe, more quantity of AstraZeneca will be produced in India, but this is a question better to ask AstraZeneca company. We all hope vaccines in the world go smoothly and quickly. Sidhant Sibal: On ties with India, how do you see the overall relationship when it comes to Europe. Also on China, do you see ties. So overall, India and China, and Poland's ties with both countries. This even as China has been aggressive with the countries in the region. Adam Burakowski: China is important to partner with Poland and we have many ties with China, especially economic, political. We have totally different political system, we have a democratic system. But we cooperate on economics, there is also a train route, that takes cargo. We see the European Union prepared an agreement on investment with China. We were not so hurrying to have this agreement before some consultations especially our transatlantic partners, US and new admin of Joe Biden. We strongly advocate transatlantic ties. Concerning India, we hope India will be closer and closer to European Union as a whole. We have big expectations from the India EU summit that will take place in Portugal in May this year. Also, in Poland and central Europe group Visegrád, we want to show India can also have good and better relations with us, especially economy, students you mentioned, connectivity. We have some hopes of increasing cooperation with India in Cybersecurity. Ongoing India EU dialogue on cyber issues. Sidhant Sibal: Poland has played an important role in Afghanistan if you can elaborate on that? Adam Burakowski: Poland always supported Freedom and stability in Afghanistan. Polish soldiers have been part of the missions, we have contributed not only militarily but also development projects. Especially in Ghazni and northern Areas. We strongly support freedom and stability in Afghanistan. And we not only support verbally but also in action. We have a Polish military contingent that is part of a resolute support mission. Poland has just printed the banknotes for Afghanistan. The banknote of 10 and 20 Afghani. This also example of very good cooperation with Afghanistan. We want a peaceful and stable Afghanistan. This is a fantastic country. My dream is someday Polish tourists can visit this country and enjoy the atmosphere, the food, views, the mountains. I hope the Afghan elite can set up some long-lasting solution for peace and stability.

Exclusive: Poland lauds India's vaccine diplomacy, hopes for early air transport bubble

The Central government on Thursday said that it has raised the matter of the wrong depiction of the map on India on the WHO's website "strongly" following which the global health body has put a disclaimer on its portal.&nbsp;

Responding to a question in the Rajya Sabha (Upper House), Minister of State for External Affairs V Muraleedharan said the matter was brought to the notice of WHO.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-the-distortion-of-indias-map-356775/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/government-raises-inaccurate-depiction-of-indian-map-with-who-chief-tedros-calls-for-immediate-removal-356667">Government raises inaccurate depiction of Indian map with WHO chief Tedros; calls for immediate removal</a>

Last month, the map of India on WHO's portal showed Indian territories in different colours, with Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh coloured in grey, while the rest of India was depicted in blue.&nbsp;

"The issue of wrong depiction of the map of India on the WHO`s website has been raised strongly with the WHO. In response the WHO has informed Permanent Mission of India in Geneva that they have put a disclaimer on the portal," the minister said.&nbsp;

"The disclaimer says 'designations employed and presentation of these materials do not imply the expression of any opinion on part of the WHO concerning the legal status of any country, territory or area or of its authorities or concerning legal status of any country, territory or area of its authorities or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries dotted/dashed lines on maps represent approx border lines for which there may not be full agreement'."&nbsp;

The minister added that India's stand on the right depiction of boundaries is "unambiguously reiterated" to the global health body.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

The Central government on Thursday said that it has raised the matter of the wrong depiction of the map on India on the WHO's website "strongly" following which the global health body has put a disclaimer on its portal.

The Central government on Thursday said that it has raised the matter of the wrong depiction of the map on India on the WHO's website "strongly" following which the global health body has put a disclaimer on its portal. Responding to a question in the Rajya Sabha (Upper House), Minister of State for External Affairs V Muraleedharan said the matter was brought to the notice of WHO. Watch | Also read | Government raises inaccurate depiction of Indian map with WHO chief Tedros; calls for immediate removal Last month, the map of India on WHO's portal showed Indian territories in different colours, with Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh coloured in grey, while the rest of India was depicted in blue. "The issue of wrong depiction of the map of India on the WHO`s website has been raised strongly with the WHO. In response the WHO has informed Permanent Mission of India in Geneva that they have put a disclaimer on the portal," the minister said. "The disclaimer says 'designations employed and presentation of these materials do not imply the expression of any opinion on part of the WHO concerning the legal status of any country, territory or area or of its authorities or concerning legal status of any country, territory or area of its authorities or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries dotted/dashed lines on maps represent approx border lines for which there may not be full agreement'." The minister added that India's stand on the right depiction of boundaries is "unambiguously reiterated" to the global health body.

WHO puts disclaimer after Indian govt 'strongly' complains wrong depiction of map

India's air chief &nbsp;RKS Bhadauria said that the Indian Air Force(IAF) is fully prepared to face any situation along the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/india-china-standoff">Line of Actual Control</a>(LAC) with China amid the standoff at the border

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/republic-day-celebrations-indias-newly-acquired-rafale-fighters-vow-the-nation-359415/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"They had brought their J-20 fighter aircraft to areas close to eastern Ladakh," adding,"The moment Indian Rafales were brought in, their J-20 was there."&nbsp;

Bhadauria asserted that talks were going on between Indian and Chinese commanders while stating that "lots of attention" was given to it. &nbsp;"If de-escalation and disengagement starts, it'll be good. If it doesn’t happen or some new situation happens, we're fully prepared," he said.&nbsp;

"We know their actions and capabilities," India's air chief said on China's capabilities. Bhadauria said Rafale fighter jets had caused worries in the Chinese camp.

The IAF had deployed the Rafale fighters in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ladakh-incident-profoundly-disturbed-india-china-ties-says-indian-external-affairs-minister-jaishankar-359824">eastern Ladakh </a>after it was procured from France. In November, the IAF had received the second batch of three Rafales at Jamnagar airbase in Gujarat.

The IAF currently has eight <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/boost-to-indias-airpower-iaf-received-the-second-batch-of-rafale-jets-340573">Rafale</a> jets in service. &nbsp;India had signed an agreement with France for 36 Rafale aircraft at a cost of Rs 59,000 crore. The country had received the first batch of five Rafale aircraft in July last year which was inducted in September, 2020 at the Ambala air base in the 17 ‘Golden Arrows’ squadron.

India's air chief had said earlier that the government is concentrating on procurement of 83 Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas (Mark 1A), 114 multi-role fighter aircraft (MRFA) and upgraded versions of the LCA.

In 2019, the IAF had issued an RFI (request for information) &nbsp;to acquire 114 jets which was billed as one of the world's biggest military procurements in recent years. The top contenders for the deal included Lockheed's F-21, Boeing's F/A-18, Dassault Aviation's Rafale, the Eurofighter Typhoon, Russian aircraft MiG 35 and Saab's Gripen.

India's air chief RKS Bhadauria said that the Indian Air Force(IAF) is fully prepared to face any situation along the Line of Actual Control(LAC) with China amid the standoff at the border Watch: "They had brought their J-20 fighter aircraft to areas close to eastern Ladakh," adding,"The moment Indian Rafales were brought in, their J-20 was there.

India's air chief RKS Bhadauria said that the Indian Air Force(IAF) is fully prepared to face any situation along the Line of Actual Control(LAC) with China amid the standoff at the border Watch: "They had brought their J-20 fighter aircraft to areas close to eastern Ladakh," adding,"The moment Indian Rafales were brought in, their J-20 was there." Bhadauria asserted that talks were going on between Indian and Chinese commanders while stating that "lots of attention" was given to it. "If de-escalation and disengagement starts, it'll be good. If it doesn’t happen or some new situation happens, we're fully prepared," he said. "We know their actions and capabilities," India's air chief said on China's capabilities. Bhadauria said Rafale fighter jets had caused worries in the Chinese camp. The IAF had deployed the Rafale fighters in eastern Ladakh after it was procured from France. In November, the IAF had received the second batch of three Rafales at Jamnagar airbase in Gujarat. The IAF currently has eight Rafale jets in service. India had signed an agreement with France for 36 Rafale aircraft at a cost of Rs 59,000 crore. The country had received the first batch of five Rafale aircraft in July last year which was inducted in September, 2020 at the Ambala air base in the 17 ‘Golden Arrows’ squadron. India's air chief had said earlier that the government is concentrating on procurement of 83 Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas (Mark 1A), 114 multi-role fighter aircraft (MRFA) and upgraded versions of the LCA. In 2019, the IAF had issued an RFI (request for information) to acquire 114 jets which was billed as one of the world's biggest military procurements in recent years. The top contenders for the deal included Lockheed's F-21, Boeing's F/A-18, Dassault Aviation's Rafale, the Eurofighter Typhoon, Russian aircraft MiG 35 and Saab's Gripen.

India-China standoff: China moved J-20 fighters the moment Rafales were stationed at LAC, says IAF chief Bhadauria 

Prime Minister Narendra <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/1971-war-anniversary-pm-modi-lights-swarnim-vijay-mashal-350131">Modi</a> on Thursday inaugurated via video conference the centenary celebrations of the historic Chauri Chaura incident, a landmark event in the country's fight for Independence.

PM Modi also released a postage stamp to mark the beginning of the centenary celebrations.

A group of freedom fighters participating in the non-cooperation movement launched by Mahatma Gandhi in 1922 were fired upon by police, leading to death of many of them. In retaliation, protesters attacked and set fire to the Chauri Chaura police station, killing many of its occupants.

Gandhi had called off the movement due to the violence. The killing of the Chauri Chaura policemen had resulted in arrest of hundreds of protesters with 228 of them being put on trial, six of them dying during it and 172 ordered to be hanged to death with the remaining sentenced to long-term imprisonments after a hasty eight-month trial.

Reviewing the death sentences, the Allahabad High Court finally in April 1923 confirmed it for 19 convicts and sentenced 110 of them to life imprisonments in Port Blair and long jail terms to others. At Thursday's event, 99 people, descendants of those involved in the incident will be honoured. &nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday inaugurated via video conference the centenary celebrations of the historic Chauri Chaura incident, a landmark event in the country's fight for Independence.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday inaugurated via video conference the centenary celebrations of the historic Chauri Chaura incident, a landmark event in the country's fight for Independence. PM Modi also released a postage stamp to mark the beginning of the centenary celebrations. A group of freedom fighters participating in the non-cooperation movement launched by Mahatma Gandhi in 1922 were fired upon by police, leading to death of many of them. In retaliation, protesters attacked and set fire to the Chauri Chaura police station, killing many of its occupants. Gandhi had called off the movement due to the violence. The killing of the Chauri Chaura policemen had resulted in arrest of hundreds of protesters with 228 of them being put on trial, six of them dying during it and 172 ordered to be hanged to death with the remaining sentenced to long-term imprisonments after a hasty eight-month trial. Reviewing the death sentences, the Allahabad High Court finally in April 1923 confirmed it for 19 convicts and sentenced 110 of them to life imprisonments in Port Blair and long jail terms to others. At Thursday's event, 99 people, descendants of those involved in the incident will be honoured.

PM Modi inaugurates Chauri Chaura centenary celebrations via video conference

US State Department on Thursday said that it welcomed steps that would improve the efficiency of India's markets and attract greater private sector investment. It indicated that the US government was supportive of India's move to reform the agricultural sector.

"We encourage that any differences between the parties be resolved through dialogue,"&nbsp;US State Department spokesperson Ned Price said.

Farmers have been protesting on the borders of Delhi since November 26 against the three newly enacted farm laws: Farmers' Produce Trade and Commerce (Promotion and Facilitation) Act, 2020; the Farmers Empowerment and Protection) Agreement on Price Assurance and farm Services Act 2020 and the Essential Commodities (Amendment) Act, 2020.

On January 26, violence broke out during the farmer tractor rally on the occasion of Republic Day.

On Wednesday, Indian Ministry of Foreign Affairs said that no foreign government had supported the farmer protests.

In response to a question in the lower house of the Indian Parliament, Lok Sabha, minister of state in the MEA, V Muraleedharan said, "No foreign government has given support to the agitation of Indian farmers against three bills passed by Indian Parliament", pointing out, "In Canada, UK, USA, and in few European countries, protests by a few motivated PIO’s (Persons of Indian origin) on issues related to the Indian Farm Bill have been reported."

Canadian PM Justin Trudeau was the only world leader to make a statement on the protests.

MEA MoS highlighted the Canadian PM's comments were taken up&nbsp;with the "Canadian authorities both in Ottawa and New Delhi and conveyed that such comments pertaining to the internal affairs of India are unwarranted, unacceptable" and "would damage India-Canada bilateral relations."

(With agency inputs)

US State Department on Thursday said that it welcomed steps that would improve the efficiency of India's markets and attract greater private sector investment. It indicated that the US government was supportive of India's move to reform the agricultural sector.

US State Department on Thursday said that it welcomed steps that would improve the efficiency of India's markets and attract greater private sector investment. It indicated that the US government was supportive of India's move to reform the agricultural sector. "We encourage that any differences between the parties be resolved through dialogue," US State Department spokesperson Ned Price said. Farmers have been protesting on the borders of Delhi since November 26 against the three newly enacted farm laws: Farmers' Produce Trade and Commerce (Promotion and Facilitation) Act, 2020; the Farmers Empowerment and Protection) Agreement on Price Assurance and farm Services Act 2020 and the Essential Commodities (Amendment) Act, 2020. On January 26, violence broke out during the farmer tractor rally on the occasion of Republic Day. On Wednesday, Indian Ministry of Foreign Affairs said that no foreign government had supported the farmer protests. In response to a question in the lower house of the Indian Parliament, Lok Sabha, minister of state in the MEA, V Muraleedharan said, "No foreign government has given support to the agitation of Indian farmers against three bills passed by Indian Parliament", pointing out, "In Canada, UK, USA, and in few European countries, protests by a few motivated PIO’s (Persons of Indian origin) on issues related to the Indian Farm Bill have been reported." Canadian PM Justin Trudeau was the only world leader to make a statement on the protests. MEA MoS highlighted the Canadian PM's comments were taken up with the "Canadian authorities both in Ottawa and New Delhi and conveyed that such comments pertaining to the internal affairs of India are unwarranted, unacceptable" and "would damage India-Canada bilateral relations." (With agency inputs)

Farm laws will improve efficiency of Indian markets, says US

Teenage climate activist&nbsp;Greta&nbsp;Thunberg&nbsp;took to social networking platform Twitter to tweet about&nbsp;the ongoing farmers protest in India.

"We stand in solidarity with the #FarmersProtest in India," Thunberg wrote on Twitter on Tuesday.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
We stand in solidarity with the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FarmersProtest?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FarmersProtest</a> in India. 
<a href="https://t.co/tqvR0oHgo0">https://t.co/tqvR0oHgo0</a>
— Greta Thunberg (@GretaThunberg) <a href="https://twitter.com/GretaThunberg/status/1356694884615340037?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Thunberg's post on the micro-blogging site came after Rihanna shared a news article regarding the farmers'&nbsp;protest in India where internet&nbsp;services have been shut down in several regions to curb violence.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/rihanna-tweets-about-farmers-protest-in-india-creates-a-stir-on-social-media-360997">Rihanna tweets about farmers' protest in India;&nbsp;creates a stir on social media</a>

India's foreign ministry&nbsp;slammed international celebrities on Wednesday for making comments in support of protesting farmers as inaccurate and irresponsible and said vested interest groups were trying to build opinion against the country.

"Before rushing to comment on such matters, we would urge that the facts be ascertained, and a proper understanding of the issues at hand be undertaken," it said in a statement.

Protesters broke barricades to enter New Delhi and clashed with police in several parts of the national capital during the January 26 'tractor rally'&nbsp;protest organised by farmers. The protesters also entered the iconic Mughal era monument Red Fort.

Police responded by shutting down roads to prevent farmers from entering the capital again.

Meanwhile, the Haryana government has extended the suspension of mobile internet services in several districts of the state till 5 pm on February 3.

Thousands of farmers, mostly from Punjab, Haryana and western Uttar Pradesh, have been protesting at the national capital's borders for over two months against the laws.

They are demanding that the government repeal the Farmers' Produce Trade and Commerce (Promotion and Facilitation) Act, 2020, the Farmers (Empowerment and Protection) Agreement on Price Assurance and Farm Services Act, 2020 and the Essential Commodities (Amendment) Act, 2020.

Teenage climate activist Greta Thunberg took to social networking platform Twitter to tweet about the ongoing farmers protest in India. "We stand in solidarity with the #FarmersProtest in India," Thunberg wrote on Twitter on Tuesday.

Teenage climate activist Greta Thunberg took to social networking platform Twitter to tweet about the ongoing farmers protest in India. "We stand in solidarity with the #FarmersProtest in India," Thunberg wrote on Twitter on Tuesday. We stand in solidarity with the #FarmersProtest in India. https://t.co/tqvR0oHgo0 — Greta Thunberg (@GretaThunberg) February 2, 2021 × Thunberg's post on the micro-blogging site came after Rihanna shared a news article regarding the farmers' protest in India where internet services have been shut down in several regions to curb violence. Also read: Rihanna tweets about farmers' protest in India; creates a stir on social media India's foreign ministry slammed international celebrities on Wednesday for making comments in support of protesting farmers as inaccurate and irresponsible and said vested interest groups were trying to build opinion against the country. "Before rushing to comment on such matters, we would urge that the facts be ascertained, and a proper understanding of the issues at hand be undertaken," it said in a statement. Protesters broke barricades to enter New Delhi and clashed with police in several parts of the national capital during the January 26 'tractor rally' protest organised by farmers. The protesters also entered the iconic Mughal era monument Red Fort. Police responded by shutting down roads to prevent farmers from entering the capital again. Meanwhile, the Haryana government has extended the suspension of mobile internet services in several districts of the state till 5 pm on February 3. Thousands of farmers, mostly from Punjab, Haryana and western Uttar Pradesh, have been protesting at the national capital's borders for over two months against the laws. They are demanding that the government repeal the Farmers' Produce Trade and Commerce (Promotion and Facilitation) Act, 2020, the Farmers (Empowerment and Protection) Agreement on Price Assurance and Farm Services Act, 2020 and the Essential Commodities (Amendment) Act, 2020.

After Rihanna, Greta Thunberg tweets about farmers protest in India

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