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Naxals killed and set on fire a former colleague, who had joined the police force after quitting the outlawed party, in Chhattisgarh's Bijapur district, police told PTI on Friday.

Rebels attacked Somdu Ram Poyam, also known as Mallesh, a constable of the District Reserve Guard (DRG), with sharp weapons on Thursday evening at Kotrapal village under Jangla police station limits, a senior official said.

The policeman's brother, who is a Jan militia commander of Maoists in the area, was also allegedly involved in the attack, he said.

After quitting the outlawed Communist Party of India (Maoist) in 2014, Poyam had joined the DRG and was posted, he said.

As per preliminary information, the victim had gone to meet his relatives in the village where ultras, including his brother, brutally thrashed him and killed him with sharp weapons, the official said.

The ultras also set the victim's body on fire in front of his family members and fled the scene, he said.

After being alerted about the incident, a police team was sent to the scene on Friday morning to collect the victim's remains, he said.

A search operation has been launched in the area to trace the Naxals involved in the killing, the official added.

Naxals killed and set on fire a former colleague, who had joined the police force after quitting the outlawed party, in Chhattisgarh's Bijapur district, police told PTI on Friday.

Naxals killed and set on fire a former colleague, who had joined the police force after quitting the outlawed party, in Chhattisgarh's Bijapur district, police told PTI on Friday. Rebels attacked Somdu Ram Poyam, also known as Mallesh, a constable of the District Reserve Guard (DRG), with sharp weapons on Thursday evening at Kotrapal village under Jangla police station limits, a senior official said. The policeman's brother, who is a Jan militia commander of Maoists in the area, was also allegedly involved in the attack, he said. After quitting the outlawed Communist Party of India (Maoist) in 2014, Poyam had joined the DRG and was posted, he said. As per preliminary information, the victim had gone to meet his relatives in the village where ultras, including his brother, brutally thrashed him and killed him with sharp weapons, the official said. The ultras also set the victim's body on fire in front of his family members and fled the scene, he said. After being alerted about the incident, a police team was sent to the scene on Friday morning to collect the victim's remains, he said. A search operation has been launched in the area to trace the Naxals involved in the killing, the official added.

Naxals kill former colleague who turned cop in Chhattisgarh 

The Indian President Ram Nath Kovind has paid homage to the 20 Indian soldiers who died in the Galwan incident during his address to the joint session of the Indian Parliament.

Pointing out to the "efforts made to disrupt the peace at LAC" which was done in the "utter disregard of bilateral relations and agreements" the President said, "twenty of our jawans made the supreme sacrifice and laid down their lives defending the country at Galwan Valley. Every citizen is deeply indebted to these martyrs."

In June of last year, the Chinese forces in an act of aggression tried to occupy the Galwan valley. During the act, while India lost 20 of its soldiers, China also suffered casualties but never came up with figures. 
 
The incident was a major setback to ties between the 2 countries, and since then despite multiple rounds of talks, China has refused to disengage from the region. &nbsp;

President said, "our security forces not only responded" with "promptitude, force and courage but also foiled all attempts to change the status quo at the border" and the "restraint, valour and courage displayed by our jawans, deserve utmost praise."

The soldiers who died were honoured with Gallantry awards posthumously earlier this week. The commanding officer of 16 Bihar regiment, Late Colonel B Santosh Babu was honoured with Maha Vir Chakra, the 2nd highest military award, while other soldiers who died were honoured with Vir Chakras, Sena Medals.

The President in the address which marks the beginning of the Budget session of the Parliament said, "My Government is vigilant and fully committed to safeguarding the interests of the country" and "additional forces have also been deployed at the LAC to protect the sovereignty of India."

The speech of the President is an important tradition of the Indian Parliament and is a policy statement of the government. The address saw President Kovind mentioning India's covid vaccine out-reach, BRICS presidency this year, and 2-year term at the United Nations Security Council.

He said, "Living up to the spirit of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakkam’, India has, in addition to fulfilling its domestic requirements, supplied essential medicines to more than 150 countries. India is committed to ensuring the availability of vaccine at the global level."

India's mega repatriation mission--Vande Bharat Mission’ and diplomacy amid the covid crisis was also mentioned. President elaborated, "It is a matter of pride for the country that ‘Vande Bharat Mission’, which is the biggest mission of its kind organized anywhere in the world, is being hailed universally."

Adding, “During this period, India has further bolstered international cooperation by holding a large number of apex summits, multilateral events and official meetings"

Under the mission, about 50 lakh Indians were brought back from various parts of the world and more than 1 lakh foreign nationals were sent to their respective countries. During the Pandemic, Indian PM had virtual summits with several countries--Australia, Sri Lanka, Denmark, Uzbekistan, Bangladesh etc, and the External Affairs Minister also had such meetings with his many counterparts.

The Indian President Ram Nath Kovind has paid homage to the 20 Indian soldiers who died in the Galwan incident during his address to the joint session of the Indian Parliament.

The Indian President Ram Nath Kovind has paid homage to the 20 Indian soldiers who died in the Galwan incident during his address to the joint session of the Indian Parliament. Pointing out to the "efforts made to disrupt the peace at LAC" which was done in the "utter disregard of bilateral relations and agreements" the President said, "twenty of our jawans made the supreme sacrifice and laid down their lives defending the country at Galwan Valley. Every citizen is deeply indebted to these martyrs." In June of last year, the Chinese forces in an act of aggression tried to occupy the Galwan valley. During the act, while India lost 20 of its soldiers, China also suffered casualties but never came up with figures. The incident was a major setback to ties between the 2 countries, and since then despite multiple rounds of talks, China has refused to disengage from the region. President said, "our security forces not only responded" with "promptitude, force and courage but also foiled all attempts to change the status quo at the border" and the "restraint, valour and courage displayed by our jawans, deserve utmost praise." The soldiers who died were honoured with Gallantry awards posthumously earlier this week. The commanding officer of 16 Bihar regiment, Late Colonel B Santosh Babu was honoured with Maha Vir Chakra, the 2nd highest military award, while other soldiers who died were honoured with Vir Chakras, Sena Medals. The President in the address which marks the beginning of the Budget session of the Parliament said, "My Government is vigilant and fully committed to safeguarding the interests of the country" and "additional forces have also been deployed at the LAC to protect the sovereignty of India." The speech of the President is an important tradition of the Indian Parliament and is a policy statement of the government. The address saw President Kovind mentioning India's covid vaccine out-reach, BRICS presidency this year, and 2-year term at the United Nations Security Council. He said, "Living up to the spirit of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakkam’, India has, in addition to fulfilling its domestic requirements, supplied essential medicines to more than 150 countries. India is committed to ensuring the availability of vaccine at the global level." India's mega repatriation mission--Vande Bharat Mission’ and diplomacy amid the covid crisis was also mentioned. President elaborated, "It is a matter of pride for the country that ‘Vande Bharat Mission’, which is the biggest mission of its kind organized anywhere in the world, is being hailed universally." Adding, “During this period, India has further bolstered international cooperation by holding a large number of apex summits, multilateral events and official meetings" Under the mission, about 50 lakh Indians were brought back from various parts of the world and more than 1 lakh foreign nationals were sent to their respective countries. During the Pandemic, Indian PM had virtual summits with several countries--Australia, Sri Lanka, Denmark, Uzbekistan, Bangladesh etc, and the External Affairs Minister also had such meetings with his many counterparts.

In an address to parliament, President pays homage to brave hearts of Galwan, highlights vaccine exports

President Ram Nath Kovind on Friday condemned the violence on Republic Day during the farmers' tractor rally. Addressing the joint sitting of Parliament at the start of the Budget Session, the President said that the violence was unfortunate and he was saddened by the insult to National flag and the Republic Day.

"The national flag and a holy day like Republic Day were insulted in the past few days. The Constitution that provides us Freedom of Expression is the same Constitution that teaches us that law &amp; rules have to be followed seriously," the President stated.

He also added that the govt is working to clear misgivings about the new farm laws. The President also listed a number of govt welfare programmes for the farmers. 
 
Hailing the government for PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi, President Kovind said, "Small and marginal farmers are also a priority for my government. To support such farmers in their small expenses, around Rs 1,13,000 crores have been transferred directly to their accounts." 
 
"My Govt would like to clarify that the rights and facilities that were available before the formation of the three Farm Laws have not been cut short, in fact with these new agricultural reforms the Govt has provided new facilities &amp; rights to farmers," he said. 
 
The most important items on the agenda in the session are the passage of the Budget and related documents — the Economic Survey for 2021-22 on Friday, The Union Budget on Monday, and the report of the Finance Commission.

(With inputs from agencies)

President Ram Nath Kovind on Friday condemned the violence on Republic Day during the farmers' tractor rally. Addressing the joint sitting of Parliament at the start of the Budget Session, the President said that the violence was unfortunate and he was saddened by the insult to National flag and the Republic Day.

President Ram Nath Kovind on Friday condemned the violence on Republic Day during the farmers' tractor rally. Addressing the joint sitting of Parliament at the start of the Budget Session, the President said that the violence was unfortunate and he was saddened by the insult to National flag and the Republic Day. "The national flag and a holy day like Republic Day were insulted in the past few days. The Constitution that provides us Freedom of Expression is the same Constitution that teaches us that law & rules have to be followed seriously," the President stated. He also added that the govt is working to clear misgivings about the new farm laws. The President also listed a number of govt welfare programmes for the farmers. Hailing the government for PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi, President Kovind said, "Small and marginal farmers are also a priority for my government. To support such farmers in their small expenses, around Rs 1,13,000 crores have been transferred directly to their accounts." "My Govt would like to clarify that the rights and facilities that were available before the formation of the three Farm Laws have not been cut short, in fact with these new agricultural reforms the Govt has provided new facilities & rights to farmers," he said. The most important items on the agenda in the session are the passage of the Budget and related documents — the Economic Survey for 2021-22 on Friday, The Union Budget on Monday, and the report of the Finance Commission. (With inputs from agencies)

President condemns violence on Republic Day, says protests at Red Fort unfortunate

A tremor of 2.8 magnitudes has been felt in New Delhi, but there is no report of any casualty or damage to property, officials said on Thursday.

According to the Ministry of Earth Sciences’s National Centre for Seismology, the earthquake, with a depth of 15 kilometres, had the epicentre near West Delhi and struck at 9.17 a.m.

No casualties or damage to properties have been reported so far.

Earthquakes of less than five magnitude are unlikely to cause large-scale damage, unless in case of weak or compromised structures.

(With inputs from agencies)

A tremor of 2.8 magnitudes has been felt in New Delhi, but there is no report of any casualty or damage to property, officials said on Thursday. According to the Ministry of Earth Sciences’s National Centre for Seismology, the earthquake, with a depth of 15 kilometres, had the epicentre near West Delhi and struck at 9.

A tremor of 2.8 magnitudes has been felt in New Delhi, but there is no report of any casualty or damage to property, officials said on Thursday. According to the Ministry of Earth Sciences’s National Centre for Seismology, the earthquake, with a depth of 15 kilometres, had the epicentre near West Delhi and struck at 9.17 a.m. No casualties or damage to properties have been reported so far. Earthquakes of less than five magnitude are unlikely to cause large-scale damage, unless in case of weak or compromised structures. (With inputs from agencies)

Delhi hit with a low intensity earthquake of 2.8 magnitude

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India is set to give 1 crore (10 million) doses of India-made COVID-19 vaccines to Africa under GAVI's Covax facility. Not just that, New Delhi will also give 10 lakh (1 million) doses to UN health workers using the same method.&nbsp;

GAVI -- Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunisation -- was created in 2000, aiming to give equal access to vaccines for children living in the world's poorest countries. Under its Covax facility, the aim is equitable distribution of Covid vaccines, and also accelerate the development and manufacture of these vaccines.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has officially announced it would gift more Covid vaccines -- to Oman (1 lakh), CARICOM countries (5 lakh), Nicaragua (2 lakh) and Pacific Island states (2 lakh).

MEA spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said, "In line with the prime minister’s announcement that India sees international cooperation in the fight against the Covid-19 pandemic as its duty, we have played the role of the first responder in our neighbourhood as well as undertaken supplies to countries beyond."

Friday marks the eighth day since India gave a go-ahead to exports of Covid vaccines. It has so far gifted over 55 lakh doses of vaccines to nine countries. These are Bhutan (1.5 lakh), Maldives (1 lakh), Nepal (10 lakh), Bangladesh (20 lakh), Myanmar (15 lakh), Mauritius (1 lakh), Seychelles (50,000), Sri Lanka (5 lakh) and Bahrain (1 lakh).&nbsp;

Commercial exports also have been sent to Brazil, Morocco and Bangladesh. Next in line to get commercial supplies of India-made vaccines are Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Canada, and Mongolia.

Bangladesh Foreign Secretary Masud Bin Momen, who is in India for foreign office consultations, thanked the External Affairs Minister for handing over 2 million doses of vaccines.&nbsp;

Nepal and Bangladesh began their vaccination programme on Wednesday using India-manufactured vaccines.

India is set to give 1 crore (10 million) doses of India-made COVID-19 vaccines to Africa under GAVI's Covax facility. Not just that, New Delhi will also give 10 lakh (1 million) doses to UN health workers using the same method.

India is set to give 1 crore (10 million) doses of India-made COVID-19 vaccines to Africa under GAVI's Covax facility. Not just that, New Delhi will also give 10 lakh (1 million) doses to UN health workers using the same method. GAVI -- Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunisation -- was created in 2000, aiming to give equal access to vaccines for children living in the world's poorest countries. Under its Covax facility, the aim is equitable distribution of Covid vaccines, and also accelerate the development and manufacture of these vaccines. Meanwhile, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has officially announced it would gift more Covid vaccines -- to Oman (1 lakh), CARICOM countries (5 lakh), Nicaragua (2 lakh) and Pacific Island states (2 lakh). MEA spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said, "In line with the prime minister’s announcement that India sees international cooperation in the fight against the Covid-19 pandemic as its duty, we have played the role of the first responder in our neighbourhood as well as undertaken supplies to countries beyond." Friday marks the eighth day since India gave a go-ahead to exports of Covid vaccines. It has so far gifted over 55 lakh doses of vaccines to nine countries. These are Bhutan (1.5 lakh), Maldives (1 lakh), Nepal (10 lakh), Bangladesh (20 lakh), Myanmar (15 lakh), Mauritius (1 lakh), Seychelles (50,000), Sri Lanka (5 lakh) and Bahrain (1 lakh). Commercial exports also have been sent to Brazil, Morocco and Bangladesh. Next in line to get commercial supplies of India-made vaccines are Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Canada, and Mongolia. Bangladesh Foreign Secretary Masud Bin Momen, who is in India for foreign office consultations, thanked the External Affairs Minister for handing over 2 million doses of vaccines. Nepal and Bangladesh began their vaccination programme on Wednesday using India-manufactured vaccines.

India to give 1 crore samples of Covid vaccine to Africa under GAVI's Covax facility

India has sharply reacted to Pakistan acquitting Ahmed Omar Saeed Sheikh, the main accused in the killing of American journalist <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-supreme-court-orders-immediate-release-of-daniel-pearl-murder-prime-suspect-359828">Daniel Pearl</a> in 2002, calling it "travesty of justice".

Highlighting the "very low conviction rate in Pakistan" when it comes to sentencing of terror accused, ministry of external affairs spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said, "this case truly demonstrates Pakistan’s intent on taking action on the terror front. It is a travesty of justice not to find Omar Saeed guilty of any charges in this heinous act of terror."

Saeed was acquitted by Sindh High Court but the case was put on appeal which was dismissed by Pakistani Supreme Court. Two out of the three judges on the bench headed by Justice Mushir Alam ruled in favour of upholding the Sindh High Court's verdict.

India while reacting to the development called Islamabad to take "sustained, verifiable, credible and irreversible action" against terrorism and terrorist funding "emanating from all territory under its control remain unchanged."

Sheikh was one of the terrorists released during the infamous Indian Airlines plane IC 814 hijacking case in 1999. A Pakistani-British national, he was arrested by India in the 1990s for kidnapping western tourists.

The mother and father of Daniel Pearl, Ruth and Judea Pearl also strongly reacted to the development, saying the "release of these killers puts in danger journalists everywhere and the people of Pakistan", urging US government to take all "necessary actions under the law to correct this injustice."

Incidentally, after the 26/11 terror attacks, Omar Sheikh pretended to be the then Indian FM late Pranab Mukherjee and made a hoax call to former Pakistan President Zardari leading the country to be put on high alert. He did so while being in jail using UK sims.

India has sharply reacted to Pakistan acquitting Ahmed Omar Saeed Sheikh, the main accused in the killing of American journalist Daniel Pearl in 2002, calling it "travesty of justice".

India has sharply reacted to Pakistan acquitting Ahmed Omar Saeed Sheikh, the main accused in the killing of American journalist Daniel Pearl in 2002, calling it "travesty of justice". Highlighting the "very low conviction rate in Pakistan" when it comes to sentencing of terror accused, ministry of external affairs spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said, "this case truly demonstrates Pakistan’s intent on taking action on the terror front. It is a travesty of justice not to find Omar Saeed guilty of any charges in this heinous act of terror." Saeed was acquitted by Sindh High Court but the case was put on appeal which was dismissed by Pakistani Supreme Court. Two out of the three judges on the bench headed by Justice Mushir Alam ruled in favour of upholding the Sindh High Court's verdict. India while reacting to the development called Islamabad to take "sustained, verifiable, credible and irreversible action" against terrorism and terrorist funding "emanating from all territory under its control remain unchanged." Sheikh was one of the terrorists released during the infamous Indian Airlines plane IC 814 hijacking case in 1999. A Pakistani-British national, he was arrested by India in the 1990s for kidnapping western tourists. The mother and father of Daniel Pearl, Ruth and Judea Pearl also strongly reacted to the development, saying the "release of these killers puts in danger journalists everywhere and the people of Pakistan", urging US government to take all "necessary actions under the law to correct this injustice." Incidentally, after the 26/11 terror attacks, Omar Sheikh pretended to be the then Indian FM late Pranab Mukherjee and made a hoax call to former Pakistan President Zardari leading the country to be put on high alert. He did so while being in jail using UK sims.

Omar Sheikh's acquittal by Pakistan Supreme Court 'travesty of justice', says India

India and Japan on Thursday reviewed progress of various ongoing projects in the Northeastern region in areas of connectivity, hydropower, sustainable development and harnessing of water resources, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said.

The review was carried out at the fifth joint meeting of the India-Japan Act East Forum.

The meeting was co-chaired by Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla and Japanese Ambassador Suzuki Satoshi, the MEA said.

"The AEF reviewed progress of ongoing projects in the North Eastern Region of India in various areas including connectivity, hydropower, sustainable development, harnessing of water resources, and skill development," it said in a statement.

It said the two sides discussed several new projects being undertaken under India-Japan bilateral cooperation and also exchanged views on cooperation in new areas such as healthcare, agro-industries bamboo value chain development, tourism and people-to-people exchanges.

The AEF provides a platform for India-Japan collaboration in the North Eastern Region under India's 'Act East Policy' and Japan's vision for a 'Free and Open Indo-Pacific'.

"The Foreign Secretary and the Japanese Ambassador appreciated the role played by the AEF since its establishment in 2017 in streamlining India-Japan bilateral cooperation for the modernisation of the North Eastern region," the MEA said.

India and Japan on Thursday reviewed progress of various ongoing projects in the Northeastern region in areas of connectivity, hydropower, sustainable development and harnessing of water resources, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said.

India and Japan on Thursday reviewed progress of various ongoing projects in the Northeastern region in areas of connectivity, hydropower, sustainable development and harnessing of water resources, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said. The review was carried out at the fifth joint meeting of the India-Japan Act East Forum. The meeting was co-chaired by Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla and Japanese Ambassador Suzuki Satoshi, the MEA said. "The AEF reviewed progress of ongoing projects in the North Eastern Region of India in various areas including connectivity, hydropower, sustainable development, harnessing of water resources, and skill development," it said in a statement. It said the two sides discussed several new projects being undertaken under India-Japan bilateral cooperation and also exchanged views on cooperation in new areas such as healthcare, agro-industries bamboo value chain development, tourism and people-to-people exchanges. The AEF provides a platform for India-Japan collaboration in the North Eastern Region under India's 'Act East Policy' and Japan's vision for a 'Free and Open Indo-Pacific'. "The Foreign Secretary and the Japanese Ambassador appreciated the role played by the AEF since its establishment in 2017 in streamlining India-Japan bilateral cooperation for the modernisation of the North Eastern region," the MEA said.

India, Japan review implementation of projects in northeastern region

In the first high-level engagements between the Modi government and the Joe Biden administration, US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin spoke to Defence Minister Rajnath Singh while National Security Adviser Ajit Doval talked to his American counterpart Jake Sullivan on Wednesday, broadly focusing on key regional and global challenges like combating terrorism and ensuring peace in the Indo-Pacific region.

The defence ministry said Singh received an "introductory telephone call" from the newly-appointed US Secretary of Defence Austin and that the two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to work together to strengthen the "multifaceted" defence cooperation and the strategic partnership between the two countries.

Official sources said China figured in the talks in the larger context of geo-political developments, and in relations to the strategic interests of India and the US in the Indo-Pacific region.

A read-out by the Pentagon said Secretary Austin emphasised the US Defence Department's commitment to the US-India major defence partnership, observing that it is built upon shared values and a common interest in ensuring the Indo-Pacific region remains free and open.

"Secretary Austin noted the great strides made in the US-India defence relationship, and he pledged to work collaboratively with the Defence Minister to sustain progress," it said.

In his talks with Sullivan, Doval underscored that India and US were uniquely positioned to work closely on regional and international issues including combating the scourge of terrorism.

"NSA Doval underscored that as leading democracies, with an abiding faith in an open and inclusive world order, India and the US were uniquely positioned to work closely on regional and international issues including combating the scourge of terrorism, maritime security, cyber security and peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region and beyond," the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a statement.

It said Sullivan stated that the US was looking forward to working together on the bilateral agenda and the common global challenges.

"The two NSAs agreed to work closely to further advance India-US relations, which are built on shared values and common strategic and security interests.

They highlighted the need to work collectively to address challenges in the post-Covid era and further expand the Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership," the MEA said.

On talks between Singh and Austin, the sources said the essence of the conversation was that both sides wanted to maintain the upward trajectory of the strategic and defence ties to advance their common agenda of peace, prosperity and growth.

In a tweet, Singh said the firm commitment to deepen India-US defence cooperation was reiterated during the talks.

"Spoke with my US counterpart, Secretary Def Austin and conveyed my warm wishes on his appointment," Singh tweeted.

"We reiterated our firm commitment to deepen India-US defence cooperation.

We exchanged views on regional and global issues of mutual interest to strengthen our strategic partnership," he said.

It is not immediately known whether the eastern Ladakh standoff between India and China was discussed in the talks.

Three days back, Austin spoke to his Japanese counterpart Nobuo Kishi during which China's growing activities in the East China Sea figured prominently.

The Indo-US defence ties have been on an upswing in the last few years and in June 2016, the US had designated India a "Major Defence Partner".

The two countries have also inked key defence and security pacts over the past few years, including the Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement (LEMOA) in 2016 that allows their militaries use each other's bases for repair and replenishment of supplies as well as provides for deeper cooperation.

The two sides have also signed COMCASA (Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement) in 2018 that provides for interoperability between the two militaries and provides for sale of high end technology from the US to India.

In October last year, India and the US sealed the Basic Exchange and Cooperation Agreement (BECA) to further boost bilateral defence ties.

The pact provides for sharing of high-end military technology, logistics and geospatial maps between the two countries.

In the first high-level engagements between the Modi government and the Joe Biden administration, US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin spoke to Defence Minister Rajnath Singh while National Security Adviser Ajit Doval talked to his American counterpart Jake Sullivan on Wednesday, broadly focusing on key regional and global challenges like combating terrorism and ensuring peace in the Indo-Pacific region.

In the first high-level engagements between the Modi government and the Joe Biden administration, US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin spoke to Defence Minister Rajnath Singh while National Security Adviser Ajit Doval talked to his American counterpart Jake Sullivan on Wednesday, broadly focusing on key regional and global challenges like combating terrorism and ensuring peace in the Indo-Pacific region. The defence ministry said Singh received an "introductory telephone call" from the newly-appointed US Secretary of Defence Austin and that the two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to work together to strengthen the "multifaceted" defence cooperation and the strategic partnership between the two countries. Official sources said China figured in the talks in the larger context of geo-political developments, and in relations to the strategic interests of India and the US in the Indo-Pacific region. A read-out by the Pentagon said Secretary Austin emphasised the US Defence Department's commitment to the US-India major defence partnership, observing that it is built upon shared values and a common interest in ensuring the Indo-Pacific region remains free and open. "Secretary Austin noted the great strides made in the US-India defence relationship, and he pledged to work collaboratively with the Defence Minister to sustain progress," it said. In his talks with Sullivan, Doval underscored that India and US were uniquely positioned to work closely on regional and international issues including combating the scourge of terrorism. "NSA Doval underscored that as leading democracies, with an abiding faith in an open and inclusive world order, India and the US were uniquely positioned to work closely on regional and international issues including combating the scourge of terrorism, maritime security, cyber security and peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region and beyond," the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a statement. It said Sullivan stated that the US was looking forward to working together on the bilateral agenda and the common global challenges. "The two NSAs agreed to work closely to further advance India-US relations, which are built on shared values and common strategic and security interests. They highlighted the need to work collectively to address challenges in the post-Covid era and further expand the Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership," the MEA said. On talks between Singh and Austin, the sources said the essence of the conversation was that both sides wanted to maintain the upward trajectory of the strategic and defence ties to advance their common agenda of peace, prosperity and growth. In a tweet, Singh said the firm commitment to deepen India-US defence cooperation was reiterated during the talks. "Spoke with my US counterpart, Secretary Def Austin and conveyed my warm wishes on his appointment," Singh tweeted. "We reiterated our firm commitment to deepen India-US defence cooperation. We exchanged views on regional and global issues of mutual interest to strengthen our strategic partnership," he said. It is not immediately known whether the eastern Ladakh standoff between India and China was discussed in the talks. Three days back, Austin spoke to his Japanese counterpart Nobuo Kishi during which China's growing activities in the East China Sea figured prominently. The Indo-US defence ties have been on an upswing in the last few years and in June 2016, the US had designated India a "Major Defence Partner". The two countries have also inked key defence and security pacts over the past few years, including the Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement (LEMOA) in 2016 that allows their militaries use each other's bases for repair and replenishment of supplies as well as provides for deeper cooperation. The two sides have also signed COMCASA (Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement) in 2018 that provides for interoperability between the two militaries and provides for sale of high end technology from the US to India. In October last year, India and the US sealed the Basic Exchange and Cooperation Agreement (BECA) to further boost bilateral defence ties. The pact provides for sharing of high-end military technology, logistics and geospatial maps between the two countries.

Indo-US ties: NSA Ajit Doval talks to US counterpart Jake Sullivan

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi today while addressing the virtual <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-cold-war-will-only-push-the-world-into-division-says-president-xi-at-world-economic-forum-359255">World Economic Forum</a>(WEF) said that 2.3 million people have been vaccinated in just 12 days with a steady drop in coronavirus cases.

"I bring the message of positivity and hope for the world on behalf of over&nbsp;1.3 billion Indians," PM Modi told almost 400 industry leaders at the summit during the virtual summit. "India is now exporting PPE kits and masks," the Indian prime minister said.

"We used technology to the fullest," PM Modi said, adding, "India beat all odds in the fight against coronavirus."

The Indian PM lauded India's fight against coronavirus while informing that virus drugs was&nbsp;exported to 150 countries. "We prioritised saving each life at the hight of the pandemic," PM Modi asserted.

"In next some months, we will achieve our target of vaccinating 300 million elderly people and people with comorbidities," PM Modi said.

"Right now there are two Made in India vaccines. World Economic Forum will be relieved to know that many more vaccines will come from India in the future."

India's prime minister informed that &nbsp;"Aatmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan" will help to build capacity stressing over&nbsp;India's reform which was long-awaited.

"When the virus hit, difficulties weren't any less for India,"&nbsp;the PM said, "I remember how experts from around the world predicted how India will be the worst affected country.&nbsp;It was said that as many as 700-800 million Indians will be affected while more than 2 million will die."

"India kept moving ahead with proactive approach. We trained our resources to fight the virus&nbsp;with testing and tracking to fight the virus. Today, India is one of the few countries which has been able to save most its&nbsp;citizens," India's prime minister said.

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi today while addressing the virtual World Economic Forum(WEF) said that 2.3 million people have been vaccinated in just 12 days with a steady drop in coronavirus cases.

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi today while addressing the virtual World Economic Forum(WEF) said that 2.3 million people have been vaccinated in just 12 days with a steady drop in coronavirus cases. "I bring the message of positivity and hope for the world on behalf of over 1.3 billion Indians," PM Modi told almost 400 industry leaders at the summit during the virtual summit. "India is now exporting PPE kits and masks," the Indian prime minister said. "We used technology to the fullest," PM Modi said, adding, "India beat all odds in the fight against coronavirus." The Indian PM lauded India's fight against coronavirus while informing that virus drugs was exported to 150 countries. "We prioritised saving each life at the hight of the pandemic," PM Modi asserted. "In next some months, we will achieve our target of vaccinating 300 million elderly people and people with comorbidities," PM Modi said. "Right now there are two Made in India vaccines. World Economic Forum will be relieved to know that many more vaccines will come from India in the future." India's prime minister informed that "Aatmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan" will help to build capacity stressing over India's reform which was long-awaited. "When the virus hit, difficulties weren't any less for India," the PM said, "I remember how experts from around the world predicted how India will be the worst affected country. It was said that as many as 700-800 million Indians will be affected while more than 2 million will die." "India kept moving ahead with proactive approach. We trained our resources to fight the virus with testing and tracking to fight the virus. Today, India is one of the few countries which has been able to save most its citizens," India's prime minister said.

India beat all odds in fight against coronavirus, says PM Modi at World Economic Forum's virtual summit

Highlighting India's vaccine outreach to a number of countries, India's ambassador to Russia Bala Venkatesh Varma has said that New Delhi believes in "vaccine cooperation" and not vaccine competition or nationalism.

Speaking to the Russian media, he said, "we do not believe in vaccine competition we do not believe in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bahrain-becomes-first-country-in-west-asia-to-get-indias-covid-19-vaccine-gift-359867">vaccine</a> nationalism, we believe in vaccine cooperation and friendship and we intend to extend our hand of friendship to support the vaccination program of a number of countries who are in need of this."

He explained, "We will work through the UN, WHO as we move forward and I am sure in the weeks ahead there will cooperation between India and Russia on the global vaccination program."

Russia has its COVID-19 vaccine Sputnik V, which will be produced in India. India is known as the pharmacy of the world and supplies 60 per cent of the world's vaccines.

"We wish to reach out to our dear friends and neighbours and we have done so. We have given vaccination doses, supplies have been sent by air" to several neighbouring countries," Varma said, adding "this is just the beginning."

India has so far provided vaccines to over 10 countries, a majority have been gifted and include neighbouring countries like Bhutan, Maldives, Nepal, Bangladesh, Mauritius, Sri Lanka, Seychelles, Myanmar.

Interestingly, the Indian envoy has been vaccinated using Russia's Sputnik V. Asked about it, he said, "'I'm very happy to tell you that I already received my first dose of the Sputnik V vaccine last week. I feel very well, there are no side effects." 
Many of the Indian diplomats at the embassy have also been vaccinated using the same vaccine.

Highlighting India's vaccine outreach to a number of countries, India's ambassador to Russia Bala Venkatesh Varma has said that New Delhi believes in "vaccine cooperation" and not vaccine competition or nationalism.

Highlighting India's vaccine outreach to a number of countries, India's ambassador to Russia Bala Venkatesh Varma has said that New Delhi believes in "vaccine cooperation" and not vaccine competition or nationalism. Speaking to the Russian media, he said, "we do not believe in vaccine competition we do not believe in vaccine nationalism, we believe in vaccine cooperation and friendship and we intend to extend our hand of friendship to support the vaccination program of a number of countries who are in need of this." He explained, "We will work through the UN, WHO as we move forward and I am sure in the weeks ahead there will cooperation between India and Russia on the global vaccination program." Russia has its COVID-19 vaccine Sputnik V, which will be produced in India. India is known as the pharmacy of the world and supplies 60 per cent of the world's vaccines. "We wish to reach out to our dear friends and neighbours and we have done so. We have given vaccination doses, supplies have been sent by air" to several neighbouring countries," Varma said, adding "this is just the beginning." India has so far provided vaccines to over 10 countries, a majority have been gifted and include neighbouring countries like Bhutan, Maldives, Nepal, Bangladesh, Mauritius, Sri Lanka, Seychelles, Myanmar. Interestingly, the Indian envoy has been vaccinated using Russia's Sputnik V. Asked about it, he said, "'I'm very happy to tell you that I already received my first dose of the Sputnik V vaccine last week. I feel very well, there are no side effects." Many of the Indian diplomats at the embassy have also been vaccinated using the same vaccine.

We believe in vaccine cooperation, not competition, says Indian envoy to Russia Venkatesh Varma

Bahrain has become the latest country to get India's COVID-19 vaccine gift. India has sent a gift of 1 lakh COVID-19 vaccines to Bahrain. Bahrain is the first country in west Asia to which New Delhi has sent the vaccine gift.

Overall, it is the ninth country to which India has sent the vaccine gift. Vaccines gifts have been sent to Bhutan, Maldives, Nepal., Bangladesh, Myanmar, Seychelles, Mauritius, and Sri Lanka. India has got requests for vaccines from a whole host of countries across the globe, including from half a dozen Arab countries like Egypt, Tunisia, Saudi Arabia, Oman and Kuwait.

India and Bahrain ties have drawn closer with high-level engagements. External affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar had visited the country in November last year. During the visit, India's EAM had thanked the leadership of the country for taking "exceptional care" for the Indian community in the country amid the pandemic.

New Delhi had also provided assistance to Bahrain&nbsp;with supplies of medicines, medical equipment, and medical professionals amid the pandemic. Both countries have also operationalized the air bubbles arrangement for travel between the two countries.

Bahrain has become the latest country to get India's COVID-19 vaccine gift. India has sent a gift of 1 lakh COVID-19 vaccines to Bahrain. Bahrain is the first country in west Asia to which New Delhi has sent the vaccine gift.

Bahrain has become the latest country to get India's COVID-19 vaccine gift. India has sent a gift of 1 lakh COVID-19 vaccines to Bahrain. Bahrain is the first country in west Asia to which New Delhi has sent the vaccine gift. Overall, it is the ninth country to which India has sent the vaccine gift. Vaccines gifts have been sent to Bhutan, Maldives, Nepal., Bangladesh, Myanmar, Seychelles, Mauritius, and Sri Lanka. India has got requests for vaccines from a whole host of countries across the globe, including from half a dozen Arab countries like Egypt, Tunisia, Saudi Arabia, Oman and Kuwait. India and Bahrain ties have drawn closer with high-level engagements. External affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar had visited the country in November last year. During the visit, India's EAM had thanked the leadership of the country for taking "exceptional care" for the Indian community in the country amid the pandemic. New Delhi had also provided assistance to Bahrain with supplies of medicines, medical equipment, and medical professionals amid the pandemic. Both countries have also operationalized the air bubbles arrangement for travel between the two countries.

Bahrain becomes first country in West Asia to get India's COVID-19 vaccine gift

Pointing out that India China ties being at a "crossroad", India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar has said that "choices that are made will have profound repercussion" not just for 2 countries, but also the entire world.&nbsp;

Ties between the two&nbsp;countries have deteriorated significantly in the last one year due to the build-up by China at the Line of Actual Control in Eastern Ladakh. The Galwan&nbsp;incident, in which 20 Indian soldiers died due to aggressive Chinese actions further impacted the ties.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/how-china-is-playing-the-distraction-game-at-lac-to-hide-wuhan-virus-weakness-at-home-359305" hreflang="en">How China is playing the distraction game at LAC to hide Wuhan virus weakness at home</a>

Jaishankar said, "The events in eastern Ladakh last year so profoundly disturbed the relationship" and they "not only signal a disregard for commitments of minimizing the troop levels but also showed a willingness to breach peace and tranquility"

He explained, "to date, we have yet to receive a credible explanation for a change in China's stance or reasons of the massing of troops" in border areas.

Under the various pacts signed by the 2 countries, to maintain peace and tranquillity at LAC, there shall be no massing of troops. China also so far has refused to disengage in the area despite repeated rounds of talks at both diplomatic and military levels.

Jaishankar listed out how China's created hurdles for India, pointing to several issues--the stapled visas issue, reluctance to deal with military commands, blocking NSG &amp; UNSC bid, stopping listing of Pak based terrorist at UNSC, the promise of market access not delivered, violation of Indian sovereignty by CPEC and friction at the border area.

"Far from mitigating the differences", EAM said, "events of 2020 have actually put our relationship under exceptional stress" and "development of ties can only be based on mutuality"--mutual respect, mutual sensitivity, and mutual interests.&nbsp;He said, "life can't carry on undisturbed despite the situation at the border" which simply is "not realistic".

As a major impact of Chinese actions, India has banned many Chinese mobile apps, increased scrutiny on investment from the country. The national sentiment in the country has also turned very negative against China. This comes as globally Chinese actions have drawn criticism due to its aggressive acts with a whole host of countries--Japan, Taiwan, Australia, Canada, Vietnam etc.

Pointing out that India China ties being at a "crossroad", India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar has said that "choices that are made will have profound repercussion" not just for 2 countries, but also the entire world.

Pointing out that India China ties being at a "crossroad", India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar has said that "choices that are made will have profound repercussion" not just for 2 countries, but also the entire world. Ties between the two countries have deteriorated significantly in the last one year due to the build-up by China at the Line of Actual Control in Eastern Ladakh. The Galwan incident, in which 20 Indian soldiers died due to aggressive Chinese actions further impacted the ties. Also read: How China is playing the distraction game at LAC to hide Wuhan virus weakness at home Jaishankar said, "The events in eastern Ladakh last year so profoundly disturbed the relationship" and they "not only signal a disregard for commitments of minimizing the troop levels but also showed a willingness to breach peace and tranquility" He explained, "to date, we have yet to receive a credible explanation for a change in China's stance or reasons of the massing of troops" in border areas. Under the various pacts signed by the 2 countries, to maintain peace and tranquillity at LAC, there shall be no massing of troops. China also so far has refused to disengage in the area despite repeated rounds of talks at both diplomatic and military levels. Jaishankar listed out how China's created hurdles for India, pointing to several issues--the stapled visas issue, reluctance to deal with military commands, blocking NSG & UNSC bid, stopping listing of Pak based terrorist at UNSC, the promise of market access not delivered, violation of Indian sovereignty by CPEC and friction at the border area. "Far from mitigating the differences", EAM said, "events of 2020 have actually put our relationship under exceptional stress" and "development of ties can only be based on mutuality"--mutual respect, mutual sensitivity, and mutual interests. He said, "life can't carry on undisturbed despite the situation at the border" which simply is "not realistic". As a major impact of Chinese actions, India has banned many Chinese mobile apps, increased scrutiny on investment from the country. The national sentiment in the country has also turned very negative against China. This comes as globally Chinese actions have drawn criticism due to its aggressive acts with a whole host of countries--Japan, Taiwan, Australia, Canada, Vietnam etc.

Ladakh incident 'profoundly disturbed' India-China ties, says Indian External Affairs Minister Jaishankar

The Pakistan government has said that former ISI director Asad Durrani had been interacting with Indian intelligence agency RAW since 2008.

This statement came in response to a petition filed by the former chief of the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) seeking the removal of his name from the Exit Control List (ECL).&nbsp;

"The situation necessitates that the petitioner's name should be continued on ECL," read the statement.

Durrani, who headed the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) agency from August 1990 till March 1993, ran into hot waters in 2018 by co-authoring a book titled 'The Spy Chronicles: RAW, ISI and the Illusion of Peace' with former RAW chief A S Dulat.

Durrani's name was put on the no-fly list in May 2018 soon after he was summoned by the top Pakistan military leadership&nbsp;to explain his position on his book.

Durrani has also served as director general of the Pakistan’s Military Intelligence in 1988.

The former ISI chief has once said that "India has not always been the biggest threat to us, the basic threat to Pakistan was from the internal challenges.”

Several times he has acknowledged that military's interference in the country's political affairs is a reality, asserting that it was detrimental to Pakistan.

The powerful military, which has ruled Pakistan for about half its history since independence in 1947, is considered a major player in the country's politics.

According to Durrani, Prime Minister Imran Khan's biggest problem was the impression that he did not come to power by himself and that "he came with a khaki burden".

(With inputs from agencies)

The Pakistan government has said that former ISI director Asad Durrani had been interacting with Indian intelligence agency RAW since 2008. This statement came in response to a petition filed by the former chief of the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) seeking the removal of his name from the Exit Control List (ECL).

The Pakistan government has said that former ISI director Asad Durrani had been interacting with Indian intelligence agency RAW since 2008. This statement came in response to a petition filed by the former chief of the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) seeking the removal of his name from the Exit Control List (ECL). "The situation necessitates that the petitioner's name should be continued on ECL," read the statement. Durrani, who headed the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) agency from August 1990 till March 1993, ran into hot waters in 2018 by co-authoring a book titled 'The Spy Chronicles: RAW, ISI and the Illusion of Peace' with former RAW chief A S Dulat. Durrani's name was put on the no-fly list in May 2018 soon after he was summoned by the top Pakistan military leadership to explain his position on his book. Durrani has also served as director general of the Pakistan’s Military Intelligence in 1988. The former ISI chief has once said that "India has not always been the biggest threat to us, the basic threat to Pakistan was from the internal challenges.” Several times he has acknowledged that military's interference in the country's political affairs is a reality, asserting that it was detrimental to Pakistan. The powerful military, which has ruled Pakistan for about half its history since independence in 1947, is considered a major player in the country's politics. According to Durrani, Prime Minister Imran Khan's biggest problem was the impression that he did not come to power by himself and that "he came with a khaki burden". (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan tries to corner army critic ex-ISI chief over allegations of interaction with RAW

India added less than 12,000 fresh Covid-19 cases in a day at a time the government is struggling to convince people that the vaccines are safe.&nbsp;

India reported 11,666 new cases in the last 24 hours, according to the health ministry’s data as of 8 am on Thursday. That’s lower than the 14,301 patients who recovered from the virus in the same time period, taking active cases below 1.74 lakh. India had over 10 lakh live infections in mid-September. 
&nbsp; 
India's fatality rate continues to be the lowest in the world at almost 1.44 per cent and 1,03,73,606 people have recovered from the virus, taking the recovery rate to nearly 97 per cent.

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) yesterday allowed cinema halls and theatres to operate with more people while swimming pools have been permitted for use by all in fresh Covid-19 reopening guidelines.

According to these new guidelines, to be effective for February 1, there shall be no restriction on inter-state and intra-state movement of people and goods including those for cross land-border trade under treaties with neighbouring countries.

The total number of global coronavirus cases has topped 100.7 million, while the deaths have surged to more than 2.17 million.

The current global caseload and death toll stood at 100,755,075 and 2,170,608, respectively.

(With inputs from agencies)

India added less than 12,000 fresh Covid-19 cases in a day at a time the government is struggling to convince people that the vaccines are safe. India reported 11,666 new cases in the last 24 hours, according to the health ministry’s data as of 8 am on Thursday.

India added less than 12,000 fresh Covid-19 cases in a day at a time the government is struggling to convince people that the vaccines are safe. India reported 11,666 new cases in the last 24 hours, according to the health ministry’s data as of 8 am on Thursday. That’s lower than the 14,301 patients who recovered from the virus in the same time period, taking active cases below 1.74 lakh. India had over 10 lakh live infections in mid-September. India's fatality rate continues to be the lowest in the world at almost 1.44 per cent and 1,03,73,606 people have recovered from the virus, taking the recovery rate to nearly 97 per cent. The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) yesterday allowed cinema halls and theatres to operate with more people while swimming pools have been permitted for use by all in fresh Covid-19 reopening guidelines. According to these new guidelines, to be effective for February 1, there shall be no restriction on inter-state and intra-state movement of people and goods including those for cross land-border trade under treaties with neighbouring countries. The total number of global coronavirus cases has topped 100.7 million, while the deaths have surged to more than 2.17 million. The current global caseload and death toll stood at 100,755,075 and 2,170,608, respectively. (With inputs from agencies)

India reports 11,666 new cases; recovery rate at 96.94%

India on Thursday dispatched the first batch of home-grown&nbsp;Covishield&nbsp;vaccine consignments&nbsp;to Sri Lanka as a gift under the neighbourhood policy.

Staff at an airport in Mumbai prepared boxes containing vaccines for shipment to Sri Lanka. Anurag Srivastava, official Spokesperson, Ministry of External Affairs, took to Twitter to make the announcement.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VaccineMaitri?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VaccineMaitri</a> continues! 
 
Consignments of Made in India Covid vaccines airlifted for Sri Lanka!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NeighbourhoodFirst?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NeighbourhoodFirst</a> <a href="https://t.co/RLyfa7xDAE">pic.twitter.com/RLyfa7xDAE</a>
— Anurag Srivastava (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1354637814499971073?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 28, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Prime Minister Narendra Modi had made a commitment to his Sri Lankan counterpart Mahinda Rajapaksa during a virtual summit in September last that India will provide all possible support to the island nation to minimise the health and economic impact of the coronavirus pandemic.

Many low and middle-income countries are relying on India, the world's biggest vaccine maker, for supplies to start COVID-19 immunisation programmes and bring an end to their outbreaks.

This month, India, the world's largest vaccine manufacturer began exporting the AstraZeneca/Oxford vaccine to neighbouring Asian countries, drawing their praise in what could prove a pushback against China's activities in the region.

So far, India has sent consignments of coronavirus vaccines under grant assistance to Bhutan, Maldives, Nepal, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Mauritius and Seychelles. 
Last week, India began commercial exports and sent two million doses each to Brazil and Morocco.

India is also sending coronavirus vaccines as commercial supplies to Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Bangladesh and Myanmar.

In a major announcement, India on January 19 said it would send COVID-19 vaccines under grant assistance to Bhutan, Maldives, Bangladesh, Nepal, Myanmar and Seychelles and supplies to Sri Lanka, Afghanistan and Mauritius will commence after confirmation of necessary regulatory clearances.

India is one of the world's biggest drugmakers, and an increasing number of countries have already approached it for procuring the coronavirus vaccines.

India has already rolled out a massive coronavirus vaccination drive under which two vaccines, Covishield and Covaxin, are being administered to frontline health workers across the country.

While Oxford-AstraZeneca's Covishield is being manufactured by the Serum Institute, Covaxin is being produced by Bharat Biotech. 
India had earlier supplied hydroxychloroquine, Remdesivir and paracetamol tablets, as well as diagnostic kits, ventilators, masks, gloves and other medical supplies to a large number of countries to help them deal with the pandemic.

India on Thursday dispatched the first batch of home-grown Covishield vaccine consignments to Sri Lanka as a gift under the neighbourhood policy. Staff at an airport in Mumbai prepared boxes containing vaccines for shipment to Sri Lanka.

India on Thursday dispatched the first batch of home-grown Covishield vaccine consignments to Sri Lanka as a gift under the neighbourhood policy. Staff at an airport in Mumbai prepared boxes containing vaccines for shipment to Sri Lanka. Anurag Srivastava, official Spokesperson, Ministry of External Affairs, took to Twitter to make the announcement. #VaccineMaitri continues! Consignments of Made in India Covid vaccines airlifted for Sri Lanka!#NeighbourhoodFirst pic.twitter.com/RLyfa7xDAE — Anurag Srivastava (@MEAIndia) January 28, 2021 × Prime Minister Narendra Modi had made a commitment to his Sri Lankan counterpart Mahinda Rajapaksa during a virtual summit in September last that India will provide all possible support to the island nation to minimise the health and economic impact of the coronavirus pandemic. Many low and middle-income countries are relying on India, the world's biggest vaccine maker, for supplies to start COVID-19 immunisation programmes and bring an end to their outbreaks. This month, India, the world's largest vaccine manufacturer began exporting the AstraZeneca/Oxford vaccine to neighbouring Asian countries, drawing their praise in what could prove a pushback against China's activities in the region. So far, India has sent consignments of coronavirus vaccines under grant assistance to Bhutan, Maldives, Nepal, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Mauritius and Seychelles. Last week, India began commercial exports and sent two million doses each to Brazil and Morocco. India is also sending coronavirus vaccines as commercial supplies to Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Bangladesh and Myanmar. In a major announcement, India on January 19 said it would send COVID-19 vaccines under grant assistance to Bhutan, Maldives, Bangladesh, Nepal, Myanmar and Seychelles and supplies to Sri Lanka, Afghanistan and Mauritius will commence after confirmation of necessary regulatory clearances. India is one of the world's biggest drugmakers, and an increasing number of countries have already approached it for procuring the coronavirus vaccines. India has already rolled out a massive coronavirus vaccination drive under which two vaccines, Covishield and Covaxin, are being administered to frontline health workers across the country. While Oxford-AstraZeneca's Covishield is being manufactured by the Serum Institute, Covaxin is being produced by Bharat Biotech. India had earlier supplied hydroxychloroquine, Remdesivir and paracetamol tablets, as well as diagnostic kits, ventilators, masks, gloves and other medical supplies to a large number of countries to help them deal with the pandemic.

India sends 5,00,000 doses of Covishield vaccine to Sri Lanka

India has strongly raised the vandalisation of the Indian mission, in Rome by Khalistan elements with Italian authorities, even as it has complimented how the UK handled the situation. The incident of vandalisation of the Indian embassy in Rome happened ahead of India's Republic Day.

The flags of Khalistan were put in at night, with the anti-social elements, scribbling "Khalistan Zindabad" on the walls. The video was then shot by them and used for propaganda on social media.

In the strong protest, India highlighted that it "was an act of vandalism perpetrated by Khalistani extremists in the stealth of night" with Indian government sources pointing out, "we have taken up this specific incident with the Italian authorities and conveyed our concerns".

India reminded that the "safety and security of Indian diplomats and diplomatic premises is the responsibility of the Italian authorities", expressing confidence that the "Italian authorities will take action against the perpetrators and prevent such incidents from happening in the future." New Delhi has been constantly raising its concerns with the Italian authorities and had done so recently ahead of Republic Day.

Khalistanis, especially backed by outlawed groups like Sikh for Justice (SFJ) has been active in many Western European countries and North American countries. Before Republic day, the SFJ had and its leader Gurpatwant Singh Pannu had called for the removal of the Indian flag from Red Fort and announced "2.5 lakh US dollars" for it.

December saw protests by Khalistani elements in front of the Indian high commission in London and the consulate in Birmingham as well. Back then, London's Metropolitan Police was swift in acting, arrested 13 due to a violation of the pandemic protocols. During the protest was present Paramjit Singh Pamma, who is on National Investigation Agency's most wanted list.

The Indian govt sources commended the London Metropolitan Police for the "proactive role in preventing any untoward incident at the Indian High Commission in London."

UK's strong action since 2019 has prevented any untoward acts by Khalistanis in London in front of the Indian mission. 2019 saw major protests by the Pakistani diaspora who broke the window-pane of the Indian high commission in London.

India has been in touch with many global capitals over the safety and security of Its diplomatic premises ahead of Republic Day. Tuesday, which was India's Republic saw some incidents by Khalistanis in front of the Indian mission in Washington. In December, Khalistani elements had defaced the statue of Mahatma Gandhi in Washington sparking condemnation by New Delhi and the US government.

India has strongly raised the vandalisation of the Indian mission, in Rome by Khalistan elements with Italian authorities, even as it has complimented how the UK handled the situation.

India has strongly raised the vandalisation of the Indian mission, in Rome by Khalistan elements with Italian authorities, even as it has complimented how the UK handled the situation. The incident of vandalisation of the Indian embassy in Rome happened ahead of India's Republic Day. The flags of Khalistan were put in at night, with the anti-social elements, scribbling "Khalistan Zindabad" on the walls. The video was then shot by them and used for propaganda on social media. In the strong protest, India highlighted that it "was an act of vandalism perpetrated by Khalistani extremists in the stealth of night" with Indian government sources pointing out, "we have taken up this specific incident with the Italian authorities and conveyed our concerns". India reminded that the "safety and security of Indian diplomats and diplomatic premises is the responsibility of the Italian authorities", expressing confidence that the "Italian authorities will take action against the perpetrators and prevent such incidents from happening in the future." New Delhi has been constantly raising its concerns with the Italian authorities and had done so recently ahead of Republic Day. Khalistanis, especially backed by outlawed groups like Sikh for Justice (SFJ) has been active in many Western European countries and North American countries. Before Republic day, the SFJ had and its leader Gurpatwant Singh Pannu had called for the removal of the Indian flag from Red Fort and announced "2.5 lakh US dollars" for it. December saw protests by Khalistani elements in front of the Indian high commission in London and the consulate in Birmingham as well. Back then, London's Metropolitan Police was swift in acting, arrested 13 due to a violation of the pandemic protocols. During the protest was present Paramjit Singh Pamma, who is on National Investigation Agency's most wanted list. The Indian govt sources commended the London Metropolitan Police for the "proactive role in preventing any untoward incident at the Indian High Commission in London." UK's strong action since 2019 has prevented any untoward acts by Khalistanis in London in front of the Indian mission. 2019 saw major protests by the Pakistani diaspora who broke the window-pane of the Indian high commission in London. India has been in touch with many global capitals over the safety and security of Its diplomatic premises ahead of Republic Day. Tuesday, which was India's Republic saw some incidents by Khalistanis in front of the Indian mission in Washington. In December, Khalistani elements had defaced the statue of Mahatma Gandhi in Washington sparking condemnation by New Delhi and the US government.

India strongly raises vandalisation of its mission by Khalistanis with Italy, compliments UK

As the farmer's tractor rally in New Delhi got hijacked by rioters, 5,000 kilometres away in Italy, the Indian embassy was vandalised. The attack took place just ahead of the Republic Day celebrations. Khalistani elements were behind it. The embassy was vandalised and words like 'Khalistan Zindabad' were written on the walls. The vandalism was carried out at night. Khalistan posters and flags were tied to the gate of the Indian embassy

The vandals took videos and used them to spread propaganda on social media. India has conveyed its concerns about this incident to italian authorities. It has reminded them that 'the safety and security of Indian diplomats &amp; diplomatic premises is the responsibility of italian authorities'. At the same time it has expressed confidence that 'the Italian authorities will take action against the perpetrators and prevent such incidents from happening in the future.'

9,000 km away, Khalistan supporters gathered outside the Indian embassy in Washington DC. Many in the crowd held saffron-coloured Khalistani flags and chanted anti-India slogans.

New Delhi has constantly been raising its concerns with western governments regarding Khalistani activities. Most of which are carried out by outlawed groups like Sikhs for Justice or SFJ

In July 2019, this group was banned by India for its unlawful association with Khalistani separatists. But SFJ &amp; its subsidiaries are still quite active in western countries.

Https://twitter.Com/ani/status/1354229798306869250

In December last year, a protest in solidarity with Indian farmers was held outside the Indian High Commission in London. Some 4,000 people turned up. Many were seen carrying Khalistani flags. This included known Khalistanis like Paramjeet Singh Pamma of the SFJ, and Kuldeep Singh Chahehru of the Federation of Sikh organisation.

From London, to Washington to Rome, Khalistani elements have waded into the farmer's movement to serve their own interest

As the farmer's tractor rally in New Delhi got hijacked by rioters, 5,000 kilometres away in Italy, the Indian embassy was vandalised. The attack took place just ahead of the Republic Day celebrations.

As the farmer's tractor rally in New Delhi got hijacked by rioters, 5,000 kilometres away in Italy, the Indian embassy was vandalised. The attack took place just ahead of the Republic Day celebrations. Khalistani elements were behind it. The embassy was vandalised and words like 'Khalistan Zindabad' were written on the walls. The vandalism was carried out at night. Khalistan posters and flags were tied to the gate of the Indian embassy The vandals took videos and used them to spread propaganda on social media. India has conveyed its concerns about this incident to italian authorities. It has reminded them that 'the safety and security of Indian diplomats & diplomatic premises is the responsibility of italian authorities'. At the same time it has expressed confidence that 'the Italian authorities will take action against the perpetrators and prevent such incidents from happening in the future.' 9,000 km away, Khalistan supporters gathered outside the Indian embassy in Washington DC. Many in the crowd held saffron-coloured Khalistani flags and chanted anti-India slogans. New Delhi has constantly been raising its concerns with western governments regarding Khalistani activities. Most of which are carried out by outlawed groups like Sikhs for Justice or SFJ In July 2019, this group was banned by India for its unlawful association with Khalistani separatists. But SFJ & its subsidiaries are still quite active in western countries. Https://twitter.Com/ani/status/1354229798306869250 In December last year, a protest in solidarity with Indian farmers was held outside the Indian High Commission in London. Some 4,000 people turned up. Many were seen carrying Khalistani flags. This included known Khalistanis like Paramjeet Singh Pamma of the SFJ, and Kuldeep Singh Chahehru of the Federation of Sikh organisation. From London, to Washington to Rome, Khalistani elements have waded into the farmer's movement to serve their own interest

Amid farmer protests in Delhi, Indian embassy in Italy vandalised

The coronavirus has cost the world approximately 16 trillion dollars and recession hit all five continents, leading to a loss of nearly 400 million jobs.

The financial year 2020 saw insolvencies and closures and the global FDI fell 42 per cent. However, FY 2021 is&nbsp;about building back and&nbsp;not letting history and China repeat itself.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-2021-and-economy-359316/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Morgan Stanley projects global GDP growth of 6.4 per cent for 2021 and&nbsp;IMF projects it 5.4 per cent. The World Bank says the global economy will expand by 4 per cent.

For any of these numbers to convert, countries around the world will have to adapt to the changing economic order and they will have to keep a close watch on the emerging trends, while also working towards&nbsp;diversifying their supply chains from China.

The coronavirus crisis has come with opportunities for radical reform, building better healthcare. The world must also look at re-aligning priorities and&nbsp;Japan is already at it.

Over 40 per cent of Japanese tech companies are shifting their manufacturing base from China. West Asia is adjusting to the new oil order by diversifying its economy.

The start before the United States is to get a grip on the pandemic, before rebuilding its economy.

India is gearing up for its first budget since the pandemic which&nbsp;will be tabled on February 01. The country is already preparing for the future by encouraging investment in the electronic vehicles sector. It is working towards becoming the world's largest EV market.

India is also trying to leverage its online market. A recent report from the United Nations says&nbsp;India's foreign direct investment grew 13 per cent in FY 20 and much of it had to do with investment in the digital sector.

In the last one year, the coronavirus pandemic pushed many consumers and companies online. This shift in consumer behaviour was more evident in India which is the world's second-biggest online market.

India was among the only two major countries that saw an increase in the FDI despite the pandemic as&nbsp;$57 billion poured into India in 2020. The number is likely to increase in FY&nbsp;21 as more companies move out of China.

The UN report also points at an interesting trend that says inflows to the US and Europe dropped into negative territory. However, in South Asia, FDI rose 10 per cent to $65 billion.

This growth, again, was steered by India, and now&nbsp;New Delhi will be looking at all these trends closely as it prepares for February 01.

The coronavirus has cost the world approximately 16 trillion dollars and recession hit all five continents, leading to a loss of nearly 400 million jobs. The financial year 2020 saw insolvencies and closures and the global FDI fell 42 per cent.

The coronavirus has cost the world approximately 16 trillion dollars and recession hit all five continents, leading to a loss of nearly 400 million jobs. The financial year 2020 saw insolvencies and closures and the global FDI fell 42 per cent. However, FY 2021 is about building back and not letting history and China repeat itself. Morgan Stanley projects global GDP growth of 6.4 per cent for 2021 and IMF projects it 5.4 per cent. The World Bank says the global economy will expand by 4 per cent. For any of these numbers to convert, countries around the world will have to adapt to the changing economic order and they will have to keep a close watch on the emerging trends, while also working towards diversifying their supply chains from China. The coronavirus crisis has come with opportunities for radical reform, building better healthcare. The world must also look at re-aligning priorities and Japan is already at it. Over 40 per cent of Japanese tech companies are shifting their manufacturing base from China. West Asia is adjusting to the new oil order by diversifying its economy. The start before the United States is to get a grip on the pandemic, before rebuilding its economy. India is gearing up for its first budget since the pandemic which will be tabled on February 01. The country is already preparing for the future by encouraging investment in the electronic vehicles sector. It is working towards becoming the world's largest EV market. India is also trying to leverage its online market. A recent report from the United Nations says India's foreign direct investment grew 13 per cent in FY 20 and much of it had to do with investment in the digital sector. In the last one year, the coronavirus pandemic pushed many consumers and companies online. This shift in consumer behaviour was more evident in India which is the world's second-biggest online market. India was among the only two major countries that saw an increase in the FDI despite the pandemic as $57 billion poured into India in 2020. The number is likely to increase in FY 21 as more companies move out of China. The UN report also points at an interesting trend that says inflows to the US and Europe dropped into negative territory. However, in South Asia, FDI rose 10 per cent to $65 billion. This growth, again, was steered by India, and now New Delhi will be looking at all these trends closely as it prepares for February 01.

India battles coronavirus effects to excel in Budget 2021

Newly-appointed United States Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin and Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh spoke on Wednesday -- in what can be termed as the first official and public contact between New Delhi and the new Biden administration.&nbsp;

The talks that started around 7.30 pm IST on Wednesday lasted for around 20 minutes. During the call, which was made from the US side, there was a reaffirmation of the Indo-Pacific vision, backed by both Washington and New Delhi.

The Indian government read out said, "During the telephonic talk, they reaffirmed their commitment to work together to strengthen the multifaceted India - US defence cooperation and the strategic partnership. Raksha Mantri and Secretary Austin discussed bilateral, regional and global issues." 
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 
The fact that the US side reaffirmed its position on Indo-Pacific show no change of sentiment in Washington on the vision. It is given that China remained another focus area of the talks.&nbsp;

The call comes few days after the US Senate confirmed Austin as the first Black US defence secretary.

Austin has so far spoken to his counterparts from Canada, Australia, South Korea, Japan and UK, and Nato chief Jens Stoltenberg.

Newly-appointed United States Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin and Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh spoke on Wednesday -- in what can be termed as the first official and public contact between New Delhi and the new Biden administration.

Newly-appointed United States Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin and Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh spoke on Wednesday -- in what can be termed as the first official and public contact between New Delhi and the new Biden administration. The talks that started around 7.30 pm IST on Wednesday lasted for around 20 minutes. During the call, which was made from the US side, there was a reaffirmation of the Indo-Pacific vision, backed by both Washington and New Delhi. The Indian government read out said, "During the telephonic talk, they reaffirmed their commitment to work together to strengthen the multifaceted India - US defence cooperation and the strategic partnership. Raksha Mantri and Secretary Austin discussed bilateral, regional and global issues." The fact that the US side reaffirmed its position on Indo-Pacific show no change of sentiment in Washington on the vision. It is given that China remained another focus area of the talks. The call comes few days after the US Senate confirmed Austin as the first Black US defence secretary. Austin has so far spoken to his counterparts from Canada, Australia, South Korea, Japan and UK, and Nato chief Jens Stoltenberg.

Defence minister Rajnath Singh, new US defence secretary speak; reaffirm focus on Indo-Pacific

India will be gifting Sri Lanka 500,000 doses of India made COVID vaccines on Thursday (January 28) on a special Air India plane. It will be the 8th country in the region to get New Delhi's vaccine gift. The gift will ceremonially be handed over by High Commissioner Gopal Baglay at the Bandaranaiake International Airport.

Last week India gifted vaccines to 8 countries-- Bhutan, Maldives, Nepal, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Seychelles and Mauritius and sent commercial consignments to 3 countries--Brazil, Morocco and Bangladesh. &nbsp;A release from the Indian high commission in Colombo said, "The gift from India is keeping in line with India’s continued support to Sri Lanka in fighting the COVID pandemic. "

The vaccine, Oxford-Astrazeneca’s Covishield is manufactured by Serum Institute of India. It was approved for use by govt last week. Interestingly, India's vaccine consignment comes to the country on auspicious Duruthu Poya Day and marks the day when Gautama Buddha first visited Sri Lanka.

Amid the pandemic, India has been supplying medicines to many countries in the region including Sri Lanka. In May 2020, India had sent 12.5 tons of medical supplies to the country to deal with the pandemic. Under mission sagar 1, supplies were sent onboard Indian navy ships to 5 Indian ocean countries including Sri Lanka.

India will be gifting Sri Lanka 500,000 doses of India made COVID vaccines on Thursday (January 28) on a special Air India plane. It will be the 8th country in the region to get New Delhi's vaccine gift.

India will be gifting Sri Lanka 500,000 doses of India made COVID vaccines on Thursday (January 28) on a special Air India plane. It will be the 8th country in the region to get New Delhi's vaccine gift. The gift will ceremonially be handed over by High Commissioner Gopal Baglay at the Bandaranaiake International Airport. Last week India gifted vaccines to 8 countries-- Bhutan, Maldives, Nepal, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Seychelles and Mauritius and sent commercial consignments to 3 countries--Brazil, Morocco and Bangladesh. A release from the Indian high commission in Colombo said, "The gift from India is keeping in line with India’s continued support to Sri Lanka in fighting the COVID pandemic. " The vaccine, Oxford-Astrazeneca’s Covishield is manufactured by Serum Institute of India. It was approved for use by govt last week. Interestingly, India's vaccine consignment comes to the country on auspicious Duruthu Poya Day and marks the day when Gautama Buddha first visited Sri Lanka. Amid the pandemic, India has been supplying medicines to many countries in the region including Sri Lanka. In May 2020, India had sent 12.5 tons of medical supplies to the country to deal with the pandemic. Under mission sagar 1, supplies were sent onboard Indian navy ships to 5 Indian ocean countries including Sri Lanka.

India to gift Sri Lanka 500,000 doses of COVID vaccine on Thursday

In a rare honour and sign of close ties between India and Brazil, Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro attended India's Republic Day celebrations organized by the Indian embassy in the national capital Brasília, calling India a "brotherly nation".

Brazilian President said, "Brazil and India have increasingly drawn closer and closer....on this occasion today as we&nbsp;celebrate India's Republic Day, kindly convey Mr. Ambassador to PM Modi, who I see a close friend, kindly send my best wishes with prosperous India."

It is also a significant departure from usual protocol because usually Presidents, and Prime Ministers, especially of large countries don't go to national day events organized by embassies.

Recalling how "India assisted with inputs" during the COVID-19 pandemic, Bolsonaro pointed out, "India has also lived up to all of the agreement and the commitments that were undertaken towards Brazil in the course of 2020". New Delhi had sent HCQ and paracetamol to the country last year during the pandemic.

The Indian envoy to Brazil, Suresh Reddy told WION, "The two countries have realised the potential to deepen the economic and commercial partnership which is also being reflected in the growth in bilateral trade and the increasing presence of Indian companies in Brazil and from Brazil in India."

And just not the president was present, the entire cabinet of the Brazilian government was present at the function, making it the most well-attended event of recent times. Present on the occasion were, foreign minister Ernesto Araujo, economy minister Paulo Guedes, minister for energy, mines &amp; petroleum, minister for infrastructure Tersio, minister for communications Fabio Faraia, minister for education, minister for justice, minister for tourism.

"The presence of a large number of congressmen also reflected the bipartisan support to this dynamic India-Brazil partnership and increasing diversification of the engagement from energy to defence from ethanol to tourism", envoy Reddy explained to WION.

Interestingly, chief of naval forces, joint chief of staff were present on the occasion. The presence of the senior defence personnel shows the increasing engagement at a strategic level in the face of common challenges.

Last week India had sent a commercial supply of 20 lakh doses of India-made COVID-19 vaccines. Bolsonaro was quick to thank India and the Indian Prime Minister, tweeting an image of Lord Hanuman bringing the "Sanjivani booti" from India to Brazil. Sanjivani Booti (herb) is the medicine Lord Hanuman delivered for Laxmana, the legendary warrior and brother of Lord Rama when he was injured in battle in the Indian epic Ramayana. But in Bolsonaro's tweet, the "Sanjivani Booti" is the COVID-19 vaccine.

Last year India had invited the Brazilian President as the chief guest of India's Republic Day.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Both countries are members of the G20, BRICS.

In a rare honour and sign of close ties between India and Brazil, Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro attended India's Republic Day celebrations organized by the Indian embassy in the national capital Brasília, calling India a "brotherly nation".

In a rare honour and sign of close ties between India and Brazil, Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro attended India's Republic Day celebrations organized by the Indian embassy in the national capital Brasília, calling India a "brotherly nation". Brazilian President said, "Brazil and India have increasingly drawn closer and closer....on this occasion today as we celebrate India's Republic Day, kindly convey Mr. Ambassador to PM Modi, who I see a close friend, kindly send my best wishes with prosperous India." It is also a significant departure from usual protocol because usually Presidents, and Prime Ministers, especially of large countries don't go to national day events organized by embassies. Recalling how "India assisted with inputs" during the COVID-19 pandemic, Bolsonaro pointed out, "India has also lived up to all of the agreement and the commitments that were undertaken towards Brazil in the course of 2020". New Delhi had sent HCQ and paracetamol to the country last year during the pandemic. The Indian envoy to Brazil, Suresh Reddy told WION, "The two countries have realised the potential to deepen the economic and commercial partnership which is also being reflected in the growth in bilateral trade and the increasing presence of Indian companies in Brazil and from Brazil in India." And just not the president was present, the entire cabinet of the Brazilian government was present at the function, making it the most well-attended event of recent times. Present on the occasion were, foreign minister Ernesto Araujo, economy minister Paulo Guedes, minister for energy, mines & petroleum, minister for infrastructure Tersio, minister for communications Fabio Faraia, minister for education, minister for justice, minister for tourism. "The presence of a large number of congressmen also reflected the bipartisan support to this dynamic India-Brazil partnership and increasing diversification of the engagement from energy to defence from ethanol to tourism", envoy Reddy explained to WION. Interestingly, chief of naval forces, joint chief of staff were present on the occasion. The presence of the senior defence personnel shows the increasing engagement at a strategic level in the face of common challenges. Last week India had sent a commercial supply of 20 lakh doses of India-made COVID-19 vaccines. Bolsonaro was quick to thank India and the Indian Prime Minister, tweeting an image of Lord Hanuman bringing the "Sanjivani booti" from India to Brazil. Sanjivani Booti (herb) is the medicine Lord Hanuman delivered for Laxmana, the legendary warrior and brother of Lord Rama when he was injured in battle in the Indian epic Ramayana. But in Bolsonaro's tweet, the "Sanjivani Booti" is the COVID-19 vaccine. Last year India had invited the Brazilian President as the chief guest of India's Republic Day. Both countries are members of the G20, BRICS.

Brazil President Bolsonaro attends India's Republic day celebration in Brasilia

 New Delhi [India], January 27 (ANI): As many as 23,28,779 beneficiaries have been vaccinated for COVID-19 till 6 pm today across the country, including 2,99,299 people vaccinated today, said Manohar Agnani, Additional Secretary, Union Health Ministry on Wednesday. According to the Union Health Ministry, as on January 27, 6:00 pm, a total of 41,599 sessions have been held."A total of 16 hospitalisations and nine deaths have been reported so far. None of these deaths has been causally linked with COVID-19 vaccination," said Agnani during a press briefing. "No case of serious/severe AEFI/Death is attributable to vaccination till date. Total hospitalizations till date stand at 16 while the hospitalization per cent against the vaccinations is 0.0007 per cent," he added. In Delhi, 6,441 beneficiaries have been vaccinated till 6 pm today, according to the Union Health Ministry. India`s COVID-19 count has reached 1,06,89,527 which includes 1,76,498 active cases and 1,03,59,305 discharges. (ANI) 

New Delhi [India], January 27 (ANI): As many as 23,28,779 beneficiaries have been vaccinated for COVID-19 till 6 pm today across the country, including 2,99,299 people vaccinated today, said Manohar Agnani, Additional Secretary, Union Health Ministry on Wednesday.

New Delhi [India], January 27 (ANI): As many as 23,28,779 beneficiaries have been vaccinated for COVID-19 till 6 pm today across the country, including 2,99,299 people vaccinated today, said Manohar Agnani, Additional Secretary, Union Health Ministry on Wednesday. According to the Union Health Ministry, as on January 27, 6:00 pm, a total of 41,599 sessions have been held."A total of 16 hospitalisations and nine deaths have been reported so far. None of these deaths has been causally linked with COVID-19 vaccination," said Agnani during a press briefing. "No case of serious/severe AEFI/Death is attributable to vaccination till date. Total hospitalizations till date stand at 16 while the hospitalization per cent against the vaccinations is 0.0007 per cent," he added. In Delhi, 6,441 beneficiaries have been vaccinated till 6 pm today, according to the Union Health Ministry. India`s COVID-19 count has reached 1,06,89,527 which includes 1,76,498 active cases and 1,03,59,305 discharges. (ANI)

Over 23 lakhs beneficiaries vaccinated against COVID-19

Britain`s GSK will shift production of the world`s first effective malaria vaccine to Indian COVID-19 vaccine developer Bharat Biotech, as part of global efforts to battle the deadly fever, the drugmakers said on Wednesday.

The agreement includes transfer of manufacturing of the protein part of the vaccine, RTS,S/AS01, while GSK will continue to supply Bharat Biotech with the adjuvant or vaccine booster for the shot, the joint statement said.

The vaccine, developed by GSK for over three decades and with nonprofit group PATH since 2001, is currently being administered under a special World Health Organization-backed scheme in Ghana, Kenya, and Malawi.

Malaria is caused in humans by five types of parasites transmitted through the bite of a certain variety of infected female mosquitoes.

Two of these parasite variants, including Plasmodium falciparum, against which the GSK vaccine was developed, pose the greatest threat.

"Helping secure the long-term future of the only vaccine available by working with an established leader like Bharat

Biotech is vital for the continued fight against this devastating disease," said Thomas Breuer, the chief medical officer for vaccines at GSK.

There were 229 million cases of the disease worldwide in 2019, with 94% of the malaria cases and deaths occurring in Africa, according to the WHO.

London-listed GSK has committed to donate up to 10 million doses of the vaccine to WHO`s pilot program, and supply up to 15 million doses annually until 2028 if recommended for wider use by the U.N. agency.

Hyderabad, India-based Bharat Biotech has been supplying vaccines to the Indian region, vaccine alliance GAVI and UNICEF, and currently manufactures 17 licensed vaccines including those for typhoid and polio.

It is expected that Bharat Biotech will be the sole supplier of the malaria vaccine by 2029 at the latest, with GSK continuing to supply the adjuvant to them, the companies said.

Britain`s GSK will shift production of the world`s first effective malaria vaccine to Indian COVID-19 vaccine developer Bharat Biotech, as part of global efforts to battle the deadly fever, the drugmakers said on Wednesday.

Britain`s GSK will shift production of the world`s first effective malaria vaccine to Indian COVID-19 vaccine developer Bharat Biotech, as part of global efforts to battle the deadly fever, the drugmakers said on Wednesday. The agreement includes transfer of manufacturing of the protein part of the vaccine, RTS,S/AS01, while GSK will continue to supply Bharat Biotech with the adjuvant or vaccine booster for the shot, the joint statement said. The vaccine, developed by GSK for over three decades and with nonprofit group PATH since 2001, is currently being administered under a special World Health Organization-backed scheme in Ghana, Kenya, and Malawi. Malaria is caused in humans by five types of parasites transmitted through the bite of a certain variety of infected female mosquitoes. Two of these parasite variants, including Plasmodium falciparum, against which the GSK vaccine was developed, pose the greatest threat. "Helping secure the long-term future of the only vaccine available by working with an established leader like Bharat Biotech is vital for the continued fight against this devastating disease," said Thomas Breuer, the chief medical officer for vaccines at GSK. There were 229 million cases of the disease worldwide in 2019, with 94% of the malaria cases and deaths occurring in Africa, according to the WHO. London-listed GSK has committed to donate up to 10 million doses of the vaccine to WHO`s pilot program, and supply up to 15 million doses annually until 2028 if recommended for wider use by the U.N. agency. Hyderabad, India-based Bharat Biotech has been supplying vaccines to the Indian region, vaccine alliance GAVI and UNICEF, and currently manufactures 17 licensed vaccines including those for typhoid and polio. It is expected that Bharat Biotech will be the sole supplier of the malaria vaccine by 2029 at the latest, with GSK continuing to supply the adjuvant to them, the companies said.

GSK to move malaria vaccine production to India's Bharat Biotech

India's Republic Day is meant to display the country's cultural diversity & military might, but this year's celebration was hijacked by a protest that turned into a riot. WION's Molly Gambhir gets you a report.

Gravitas: Farmers run riot on India's Republic Day

The Union government said today that in view of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-covaxin-offers-protection-against-uk-variant-of-coronavirus-study-359634">COVID-19 </a>cases declining steadily, new guidelines have been issued which will be effective from February 1.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-delhi-heading-towards-herd-immunity-against-coronavirus-359581/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

According to the new rules laid down by the government, all activities will be permitted outside containment zones including use of swimming pools, cinema halls, exhibition halls and social and religious gatherings subject to revised SOPs.

Cinema halls have been allowed up to 50 per cent seating capacity, the MHA guidelines said. "Now they will be permitted to operate at higher seating capacity for which a revised SOP will be issued by Ministry of Information &amp; Broadcasting," it said.&nbsp;

The government said there will be no restriction on inter-state and intra-state movement of persons and goods including cross-border trade.

The government said that persons over 65, those with co-morbidities, pregnant women and children below 10 years of age have been advised to take precautions.

The MHA directive said that for further opening up of international air travel, the ministry of civil aviation will take a decision in consultation with the home ministry.

The order to enforce guidelines for surveillance, containment and caution which will be effective from February 1 to February 28 with states and Union Territories mandated to continue to enforce containment measures &amp; SOPs on various activities &amp; COVID-19 appropriate behaviour.

The Union government said today that in view of COVID-19 cases declining steadily, new guidelines have been issued which will be effective from February 1. Watch: According to the new rules laid down by the government, all activities will be permitted outside containment zones including use of swimming pools, cinema halls, exhibition halls and social and religious gatherings subject to revised SOPs.

The Union government said today that in view of COVID-19 cases declining steadily, new guidelines have been issued which will be effective from February 1. Watch: According to the new rules laid down by the government, all activities will be permitted outside containment zones including use of swimming pools, cinema halls, exhibition halls and social and religious gatherings subject to revised SOPs. Cinema halls have been allowed up to 50 per cent seating capacity, the MHA guidelines said. "Now they will be permitted to operate at higher seating capacity for which a revised SOP will be issued by Ministry of Information & Broadcasting," it said. The government said there will be no restriction on inter-state and intra-state movement of persons and goods including cross-border trade. The government said that persons over 65, those with co-morbidities, pregnant women and children below 10 years of age have been advised to take precautions. The MHA directive said that for further opening up of international air travel, the ministry of civil aviation will take a decision in consultation with the home ministry. The order to enforce guidelines for surveillance, containment and caution which will be effective from February 1 to February 28 with states and Union Territories mandated to continue to enforce containment measures & SOPs on various activities & COVID-19 appropriate behaviour.

Government's new COVID-19 guidelines: Cinema halls allowed 50% per cent seating capacity

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