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Due to the COVID pandemic, no foreign guest will be present at India's Republic Day parade, something that has been one of the highlights of the annual event celebrating the country's diversity at the heart of Delhi. 
&nbsp; 
Announcing the development, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said, "Due to the global Covid 19 situation, it has been decided that this year there will not be a foreign head of state or head of govt as the chief guest at our republic day event".

India had extended an invite to UK PM Boris Johnson to be the guest at the Republic Day that had accepted and confirmed that he will be coming. But earlier this month he had informed the Indian PM of his inability to come due to the new strain of Covid virus that had emerged in the UK.&nbsp;

This is the 4th time in history that no foreign guest will be present at India's republic day.&nbsp;

The last time it had happened was in the year 1966, and before that in 1953 and 1952.

The choice of republic day guest showcases New Delhi's closeness with the country. Indian PM Modi had invited US President Barack Obama as the chief guest in 2015, which sent the message of growing ties Delhi Washington partnership.&nbsp;

In 2018, all members of the ASEAN grouping were invited, creating history since never before 10 heads of govt/states were present at the parade together.

Due to the COVID pandemic, no foreign guest will be present at India's Republic Day parade, something that has been one of the highlights of the annual event celebrating the country's diversity at the heart of Delhi.

Due to the COVID pandemic, no foreign guest will be present at India's Republic Day parade, something that has been one of the highlights of the annual event celebrating the country's diversity at the heart of Delhi. Announcing the development, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said, "Due to the global Covid 19 situation, it has been decided that this year there will not be a foreign head of state or head of govt as the chief guest at our republic day event". India had extended an invite to UK PM Boris Johnson to be the guest at the Republic Day that had accepted and confirmed that he will be coming. But earlier this month he had informed the Indian PM of his inability to come due to the new strain of Covid virus that had emerged in the UK. This is the 4th time in history that no foreign guest will be present at India's republic day. The last time it had happened was in the year 1966, and before that in 1953 and 1952. The choice of republic day guest showcases New Delhi's closeness with the country. Indian PM Modi had invited US President Barack Obama as the chief guest in 2015, which sent the message of growing ties Delhi Washington partnership. In 2018, all members of the ASEAN grouping were invited, creating history since never before 10 heads of govt/states were present at the parade together.

Covid-19 shadow on 72nd Republic Day: No foreign head of state to attend the event

Asking UK Parliamentarian to discuss issues based on "authentic information", Indian high commission in United Kingdom in two consecutive statements has invited "Members of the Parliament of the United Kingdom to consult with the High Commission anytime" on all "India-related issues of interest to them to have up-to-date, authentic and factual information about India".&nbsp;

This includes issues that "may be of concern to them or their constituents."

The statements by the Indian mission came after the Westminster Hall of the UK House of Commons saw discussion by MP on the situation of minorities and in the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

In the statement issued after a discussion on the situation of minorities, the Indian mission said that it has "made available fact sheets and briefs to enable them to disregard any misinformation or incomplete or false portrayal of the ground realities".

When it comes to discussion on Kashmir, the Indian mission pointed out several initiatives by the Indian government for the union territory including the recently held district-level elections that saw "impressive turnout of men and women alike--over 50%". The mission said, "This is a strong endorsement of the GOI initiatives by the people of Jammu and Kashmir, who are now participants and direct beneficiaries in the vibrant democratic mainstream of India."

It also raised the issue of cross border terrorism from Pakistan highlighting the " atrocities being committed daily in the part of Kashmir that is illegally occupied by this third country...which is recognized as a global epicentre of terrorism" and a "perpetrator of state-sponsored cross-border terrorism for over 70 years in Jammu and Kashmir - and the rest of India."

Interestingly, the Govt government during the discussion defended India's record with Nigel Adams, Minister for Asia at UK foreign office lauding its diversity.

Asking UK Parliamentarian to discuss issues based on "authentic information", Indian high commission in United Kingdom in two consecutive statements has invited "Members of the Parliament of the United Kingdom to consult with the High Commission anytime" on all "India-related issues of interest to them to have up-to-date, authentic and factual information about India".

Asking UK Parliamentarian to discuss issues based on "authentic information", Indian high commission in United Kingdom in two consecutive statements has invited "Members of the Parliament of the United Kingdom to consult with the High Commission anytime" on all "India-related issues of interest to them to have up-to-date, authentic and factual information about India". This includes issues that "may be of concern to them or their constituents." The statements by the Indian mission came after the Westminster Hall of the UK House of Commons saw discussion by MP on the situation of minorities and in the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir. In the statement issued after a discussion on the situation of minorities, the Indian mission said that it has "made available fact sheets and briefs to enable them to disregard any misinformation or incomplete or false portrayal of the ground realities". When it comes to discussion on Kashmir, the Indian mission pointed out several initiatives by the Indian government for the union territory including the recently held district-level elections that saw "impressive turnout of men and women alike--over 50%". The mission said, "This is a strong endorsement of the GOI initiatives by the people of Jammu and Kashmir, who are now participants and direct beneficiaries in the vibrant democratic mainstream of India." It also raised the issue of cross border terrorism from Pakistan highlighting the " atrocities being committed daily in the part of Kashmir that is illegally occupied by this third country...which is recognized as a global epicentre of terrorism" and a "perpetrator of state-sponsored cross-border terrorism for over 70 years in Jammu and Kashmir - and the rest of India." Interestingly, the Govt government during the discussion defended India's record with Nigel Adams, Minister for Asia at UK foreign office lauding its diversity.

Indian Mission in London invites UK MPs to get authentic information as minorities, Kashmir raised in Parliament

India has strongly raised the issue of inaccurate depiction of Indian map showing union territories of J&amp;K &amp; Ladakh separately by the World Health Organisation (WHO).&nbsp;

The matter was raised by Indian envoy to UN in Geneva Indramani Pandey with WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.

In the letter the top Indian diplomat expressed his "deep displeasure" at the "inaccurate depiction of the boundaries of India in the maps of various web portals of WHO."

He called Tedros for "immediate intervention" and "removal of maps" which have been inaccurately depicting the boundaries of India and replacing them with "accurate maps".

It is the third time India has raised the matter with the WHO in a matter of month. The previous two Indian mission to the UN in Geneva had written to Tedros and now with the envoy himself has raised the issue

The Indian envoy in the letter said: &nbsp;"I draw your attention to our previous messages sent to WHO pointing out similar inaccuracies."

Earlier this month WION had reached out to the WHO on the wrongful depiction of the Indian map with the body distancing itself and putting the responsibility on the UN.

WHO told WION that its "approach is to follow UN guidelines and practice regarding maps as far as possible"

Explaining, "WHO, as a UN specialized agency, follows the United Nations on the representation of territories and boundaries on maps because the United Nations is entrusted with addressing issues involving matters of geo-politics for the UN system."

India has strongly raised the issue of inaccurate depiction of Indian map showing union territories of J&K & Ladakh separately by the World Health Organisation (WHO).

India has strongly raised the issue of inaccurate depiction of Indian map showing union territories of J&K & Ladakh separately by the World Health Organisation (WHO). The matter was raised by Indian envoy to UN in Geneva Indramani Pandey with WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus. In the letter the top Indian diplomat expressed his "deep displeasure" at the "inaccurate depiction of the boundaries of India in the maps of various web portals of WHO." He called Tedros for "immediate intervention" and "removal of maps" which have been inaccurately depicting the boundaries of India and replacing them with "accurate maps". It is the third time India has raised the matter with the WHO in a matter of month. The previous two Indian mission to the UN in Geneva had written to Tedros and now with the envoy himself has raised the issue The Indian envoy in the letter said: "I draw your attention to our previous messages sent to WHO pointing out similar inaccuracies." Earlier this month WION had reached out to the WHO on the wrongful depiction of the Indian map with the body distancing itself and putting the responsibility on the UN. WHO told WION that its "approach is to follow UN guidelines and practice regarding maps as far as possible" Explaining, "WHO, as a UN specialized agency, follows the United Nations on the representation of territories and boundaries on maps because the United Nations is entrusted with addressing issues involving matters of geo-politics for the UN system."

Government raises inaccurate depiction of Indian map with WHO chief Tedros; calls for immediate removal

India Navy conducted <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-navy-to-kick-start-second-edition-of-coastal-defence-exercise-sea-vigil-on-tuesday-356108">"Exercise Sea Vigil"</a> from January 12-13 which included the entire coastline and EEZ of the country.

The exercise involved the deployment of the entire coastal security apparatus and more than 110 surface assets of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-vietnam-navy-to-undertake-passex-exercises-in-south-china-sea-352151">Indian Navy</a> and Coast Guard including the deployment of marine police and Customs.

"Security mechanism of ports was also validated during the exercise and the crisis management plans of all ports were assessed," the Navy said.

State police teams, Indian Navy marine commandos and commandos from National Security Guard(NSG)&nbsp;also took part to tackle acts of maritime terrorism. &nbsp;

The exercise validated technical surveillance infrastructure in the National Command, Control, Communication and Intelligence (NC3I) Network.

The Information Management and Analysis Centre (IMAC) at Gurugram and its various nodes across IN and CG stations were exercised," it said.

The Navy said the envisaged objectives of the exercise were met by the whole-hearted participation of all stakeholders.

India Navy conducted "Exercise Sea Vigil" from January 12-13 which included the entire coastline and EEZ of the country. The exercise involved the deployment of the entire coastal security apparatus and more than 110 surface assets of the Indian Navy and Coast Guard including the deployment of marine police and Customs.

India Navy conducted "Exercise Sea Vigil" from January 12-13 which included the entire coastline and EEZ of the country. The exercise involved the deployment of the entire coastal security apparatus and more than 110 surface assets of the Indian Navy and Coast Guard including the deployment of marine police and Customs. "Security mechanism of ports was also validated during the exercise and the crisis management plans of all ports were assessed," the Navy said. State police teams, Indian Navy marine commandos and commandos from National Security Guard(NSG) also took part to tackle acts of maritime terrorism. The exercise validated technical surveillance infrastructure in the National Command, Control, Communication and Intelligence (NC3I) Network. The Information Management and Analysis Centre (IMAC) at Gurugram and its various nodes across IN and CG stations were exercised," it said. The Navy said the envisaged objectives of the exercise were met by the whole-hearted participation of all stakeholders.

Exercise Sea Vigil: Navy, Coast Guard, NSG commandos tackle maritime terrorism

Elon Musk-led Tesla has registered a subsidiary company in Bengaluru as it prepares to create a much-awaited manufacturing plant and R&amp;D unit in India.

The company, registered as Tesla Motors India &amp; Energy Pvt Ltd, has named three directors as part of its team in the country, Vaibhav Taneja, Venkatrangam Sreeram and David Jon Feinstein.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/elon-musks-tesla-registers-india-office-in-bengaluru-to-start-operations-with-rd-unit-356324" hreflang="en">Tesla registers India office in Bengaluru, to start operations with R&amp;D unit</a>

It is a private unlisted company with an authorized capital of Rs 15,00,000 and a paid-up capital of Rs 1,00,000.

This announcement officially marks Tesla’s India entry in the state of Karnataka. It would be interesting to see if the company would set-up its manufacturing base in Karnataka, or will continue to keep up the suspense and be wooed away by some other state.

Twitter users in India couldn't contain their excitement and shared their views on Tesla's much-anticipated arrival in the country.

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Proud moment for Karnataka as Tesla enters India by registering in Bengaluru. 
 
Truly, Bengaluru is the beating heart of Indian innovation. 
 
Hope one day Bengaluru will be the greatest innovation hub in the world.
— Abhishek (@AbhishBanerj) <a href="https://twitter.com/AbhishBanerj/status/1349189097961574402?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Some netizens rushed to buy the company's much-awaited electric cars and shared the copies of their bills after purchasing their ''dream cars''.

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It's here!! Welcome Tesla!! 😍😍🔥🔥 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Teslaindia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Teslaindia</a> <a href="https://t.co/qqAn9b4ok8">pic.twitter.com/qqAn9b4ok8</a>
— Ronit Gupta (@ronit_gupta18) <a href="https://twitter.com/ronit_gupta18/status/1349190797816696832?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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However, few netizens warned Tesla about India's notorious traffic jams and&nbsp;expressed their scepticism about the uneven roads.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Teslaindia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Teslaindia</a> 
Tesla Be aware about Indian traffic, "Auto drive" mode may not be working here... <a href="https://t.co/Vo9ttaF0wV">pic.twitter.com/Vo9ttaF0wV</a>
— fᵣₑₑ wₐy 🗨 (@T_O_freeway) <a href="https://twitter.com/T_O_freeway/status/1349183622549409792?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Teslaindia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Teslaindia</a> 
elon musk after seeing the condition of indian roads : <a href="https://t.co/X9EpKUSkFp">pic.twitter.com/X9EpKUSkFp</a>
— Tushar Patel (@tusharrrpatel) <a href="https://twitter.com/tusharrrpatel/status/1349053489830260736?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 12, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Tesla on Indian roads.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Teslaindia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Teslaindia</a> 🇮🇳 <a href="https://t.co/XIZLfGXf7B">pic.twitter.com/XIZLfGXf7B</a>
— Kachre Wala (@GaadiWalaa) <a href="https://twitter.com/GaadiWalaa/status/1349072179594371072?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 12, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Elon Musk, who recently became the wealthiest individual in the world overtaking Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, also enjoys a cult-figure like status in India as he does abroad which has added to the growing demand for Tesla and its products.

India’s transport minister Nitin Gadkari told a local newspaper in December the US electric carmaker would start with sales and then might look at assembly and manufacturing.

Tesla chief executive Elon Musk has tweeted several times in recent years, including as recently as October 2020, about an impending foray into India.

The move comes as Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is promoting the production and use of electric vehicles to reduce the country’s oil dependence and cut down on pollution.

Elon Musk-led Tesla has registered a subsidiary company in Bengaluru as it prepares to create a much-awaited manufacturing plant and R&D unit in India. The company, registered as Tesla Motors India & Energy Pvt Ltd, has named three directors as part of its team in the country, Vaibhav Taneja, Venkatrangam Sreeram and David Jon Feinstein.

Elon Musk-led Tesla has registered a subsidiary company in Bengaluru as it prepares to create a much-awaited manufacturing plant and R&D unit in India. The company, registered as Tesla Motors India & Energy Pvt Ltd, has named three directors as part of its team in the country, Vaibhav Taneja, Venkatrangam Sreeram and David Jon Feinstein. Also read: Tesla registers India office in Bengaluru, to start operations with R&D unit It is a private unlisted company with an authorized capital of Rs 15,00,000 and a paid-up capital of Rs 1,00,000. This announcement officially marks Tesla’s India entry in the state of Karnataka. It would be interesting to see if the company would set-up its manufacturing base in Karnataka, or will continue to keep up the suspense and be wooed away by some other state. Twitter users in India couldn't contain their excitement and shared their views on Tesla's much-anticipated arrival in the country. Proud moment for Karnataka as Tesla enters India by registering in Bengaluru. Truly, Bengaluru is the beating heart of Indian innovation. Hope one day Bengaluru will be the greatest innovation hub in the world. — Abhishek (@AbhishBanerj) January 13, 2021 × Some netizens rushed to buy the company's much-awaited electric cars and shared the copies of their bills after purchasing their ''dream cars''. It's here!! Welcome Tesla!! 😍😍🔥🔥 #Teslaindia pic.twitter.com/qqAn9b4ok8 — Ronit Gupta (@ronit_gupta18) January 13, 2021 × However, few netizens warned Tesla about India's notorious traffic jams and expressed their scepticism about the uneven roads. #Teslaindia Tesla Be aware about Indian traffic, "Auto drive" mode may not be working here... pic.twitter.com/Vo9ttaF0wV — fᵣₑₑ wₐy 🗨 (@T_O_freeway) January 13, 2021 × #Teslaindia elon musk after seeing the condition of indian roads : pic.twitter.com/X9EpKUSkFp — Tushar Patel (@tusharrrpatel) January 12, 2021 × Tesla on Indian roads.#Teslaindia 🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/XIZLfGXf7B — Kachre Wala (@GaadiWalaa) January 12, 2021 × Elon Musk, who recently became the wealthiest individual in the world overtaking Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, also enjoys a cult-figure like status in India as he does abroad which has added to the growing demand for Tesla and its products. India’s transport minister Nitin Gadkari told a local newspaper in December the US electric carmaker would start with sales and then might look at assembly and manufacturing. Tesla chief executive Elon Musk has tweeted several times in recent years, including as recently as October 2020, about an impending foray into India. The move comes as Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is promoting the production and use of electric vehicles to reduce the country’s oil dependence and cut down on pollution.

Twitter users 'stuck in traffic jam' with memes after Tesla officially enters India

Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar said that trust with China had been deeply impaired after last summer's border clash which resulted in the first combat deaths in 45 years.

Jaishankar: Trust with China deeply impaired after border clash

India has lauded the UN Peacekeeping mission in Mali at a United Nations Security Council meeting, pointing out the "important role" played by it in "stabilizing the security situation" in the country through "political and military support to the peace process, along with its confidence-building measures".

Speaking at the UNSC meeting on UN Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA), India's Deputy Permanent Representative to UN Nagaraj Naidu said, “If MINUSMA has to carry out its mandate more effectively, it must be adequately equipped with resources.... I would like to inform you that my Government will consider positively Secretary General’s proposal for the deployment of air assets in MINUSMA."

Important to note that India has contributed $ 1 million to African-led International Support Mission to Mali (AFISMA) fund in 2013. The same year saw MINUSMA taking over from AFISMA as the situation worsened in the country, especially in southern Mali due to attacks by terrorists. Security Council in its meet also considered the latest report of the Secretary-General on the situation in Mali.

The Indian Diplomat also highlighted the role of India in the development of the country, from development projects to COVID crisis by sending medicines.&nbsp;

Nagaraj said, “India has extended soft loans totalling US $ 353.6 million for various developmental projects, including in the power sector, in Mali." Elaborating that India, "offers a significant number of training slots for Malian officials under its Technical and Economic Cooperation training programme" with the west African country being, "one of the beneficiaries of the Duty-Free Trade Preference Scheme enjoying zero duty on nearly 95% of its exports to India.".&nbsp;

New Delhi has extended support to Mali's transitional government. 2020 saw a coup in Mali leading to the appointment of civilian President, PM and formation of transitional govt and constitution of 121 member national transition council. The transitional govt has shown a commitment to implement the peace agreement and has accommodated stakeholders from the north of the country in the national transition council.

India has lauded the UN Peacekeeping mission in Mali at a United Nations Security Council meeting, pointing out the "important role" played by it in "stabilizing the security situation" in the country through "political and military support to the peace process, along with its confidence-building measures".

India has lauded the UN Peacekeeping mission in Mali at a United Nations Security Council meeting, pointing out the "important role" played by it in "stabilizing the security situation" in the country through "political and military support to the peace process, along with its confidence-building measures". Speaking at the UNSC meeting on UN Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA), India's Deputy Permanent Representative to UN Nagaraj Naidu said, “If MINUSMA has to carry out its mandate more effectively, it must be adequately equipped with resources.... I would like to inform you that my Government will consider positively Secretary General’s proposal for the deployment of air assets in MINUSMA." Important to note that India has contributed $ 1 million to African-led International Support Mission to Mali (AFISMA) fund in 2013. The same year saw MINUSMA taking over from AFISMA as the situation worsened in the country, especially in southern Mali due to attacks by terrorists. Security Council in its meet also considered the latest report of the Secretary-General on the situation in Mali. The Indian Diplomat also highlighted the role of India in the development of the country, from development projects to COVID crisis by sending medicines. Nagaraj said, “India has extended soft loans totalling US $ 353.6 million for various developmental projects, including in the power sector, in Mali." Elaborating that India, "offers a significant number of training slots for Malian officials under its Technical and Economic Cooperation training programme" with the west African country being, "one of the beneficiaries of the Duty-Free Trade Preference Scheme enjoying zero duty on nearly 95% of its exports to India.". New Delhi has extended support to Mali's transitional government. 2020 saw a coup in Mali leading to the appointment of civilian President, PM and formation of transitional govt and constitution of 121 member national transition council. The transitional govt has shown a commitment to implement the peace agreement and has accommodated stakeholders from the north of the country in the national transition council.

India lauds UN peacekeeping mission in Mali, highlights its support to the country 

As India gets set to begin its coronavirus <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/5472-lakh-covid-19-vaccine-doses-received-till-tuesday-afternoon-centre-356289">vaccination</a> from January 16, the first consignment of "Covishield" vaccine by Serum Institute of India arrived in Goa on Wednesday.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/who-inoculation-drive-in-poor-nations-hinges-on-vaccine-supplies-356181/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

In Shillong, 35,000 doses of "Covishield" arrived at the state vaccination centre.&nbsp;

Maharashtra which has been the worst-hit state due to the virus received 9.63-lakh doses with all doses being received in Pune from where it will be distributed to various districts and cities.

The new consignment has also reached Maharasthra's capital Mumbai which has been hit hard with the virus.

The Telangana government informed that the first consignment of Covaxin by Bharat Biotech had reached the state.

Meanwhile, Bharat Biotech announced that it has signed an agreement with Precisa Medicamentos for the supply of Covaxin to Brazil.&nbsp;

The Odisha government informed that the first consignment of the coronavirus vaccine "Covishield" arrived at a storage centre in Bhubaneswar. Punjab also received its vaccine does to kick-start the vaccination drive in the state.

Andhra Pradesh government said it had received its first consignment of the vaccine in Vijayawada from Pune.

Amid the vaccine distribution, Dr VK Paul, Member (Health), NITI Aayog said: "Both the vaccines (Covishield &amp; Covaxin) have been authorized for emergency use &amp; there should be no doubt about their safety."

"They have been tested on thousands of people &amp; side-effects are negligible. There is no risk of any significance," Paul asserted. 
Paul informed that the Indian Medical Association (IMA) has decided to accept and support "Covishield" and "Covaxin" vaccines.

As India gets set to begin its coronavirus vaccination from January 16, the first consignment of "Covishield" vaccine by Serum Institute of India arrived in Goa on Wednesday.

As India gets set to begin its coronavirus vaccination from January 16, the first consignment of "Covishield" vaccine by Serum Institute of India arrived in Goa on Wednesday. Watch: In Shillong, 35,000 doses of "Covishield" arrived at the state vaccination centre. Maharashtra which has been the worst-hit state due to the virus received 9.63-lakh doses with all doses being received in Pune from where it will be distributed to various districts and cities. The new consignment has also reached Maharasthra's capital Mumbai which has been hit hard with the virus. The Telangana government informed that the first consignment of Covaxin by Bharat Biotech had reached the state. Meanwhile, Bharat Biotech announced that it has signed an agreement with Precisa Medicamentos for the supply of Covaxin to Brazil. The Odisha government informed that the first consignment of the coronavirus vaccine "Covishield" arrived at a storage centre in Bhubaneswar. Punjab also received its vaccine does to kick-start the vaccination drive in the state. Andhra Pradesh government said it had received its first consignment of the vaccine in Vijayawada from Pune. Amid the vaccine distribution, Dr VK Paul, Member (Health), NITI Aayog said: "Both the vaccines (Covishield & Covaxin) have been authorized for emergency use & there should be no doubt about their safety." "They have been tested on thousands of people & side-effects are negligible. There is no risk of any significance," Paul asserted. Paul informed that the Indian Medical Association (IMA) has decided to accept and support "Covishield" and "Covaxin" vaccines.

Coronavirus vaccines arrive in Goa, Telangana

A cold wave gripped Delhi on Wednesday as frosty winds from the snow-clad western Himalayas continued to sweep the plains and brought the minimum temperature down to 3.2 degrees Celsius, the IMD said. 
"Dense" fog blanketed parts of the city, lowering visibility to 50 metres and affecting traffic movement.

Cold wave conditions prevailed at the Safdarjung Observatory, which provides representative data for the city. It recorded a minimum of 3.2 degrees Celsius, four notches below the normal, said Kuldeep Srivastava, the regional forecasting centre head of the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

In the plains, the IMD declares a cold wave if the minimum temperature dips to 4 degrees Celsius. A severe cold wave is when the minimum is 2 degrees Celsius or less.

Cold and dry northerly/northwesterly winds from the western Himalayas have been barrelling through the plains, bringing down the minimum temperature in north India, Srivastava said. 
Similar conditions will prevail in the city over the next two days, he said.

"Dense" fog lowered visibility to 50 metres at Palam and 200 metres at Safdarjung, the IMD said.

According to the IMD, a "very dense" fog is when the visibility is between 0 and 50 metres. In case of a "dense" fog, the visibility is between 51 and 200 metres, "moderate" 201 and 500 metres, and "shallow" 501 and 1,000 metres.

Delhi had been registering above-normal minimum temperatures till Monday, as a cloud cover persisted over the city under the influence of successive Western Disturbances (WDs).

However, the temperature started dropping with the commencement of cold northwesterly winds after the withdrawal of the latest WD.

The city's minimum had settled at 4.8 degrees Celsius on Tuesday, 7 degrees Celsius on Monday, 7.8 degrees Celsius on Sunday, 10.8 degrees Celsius on Saturday, 9.6 degrees Celsius on Friday and 14.4 degrees Celsius on Thursday, the highest in January in four years, according to the IMD. 
&nbsp;

A cold wave gripped Delhi on Wednesday as frosty winds from the snow-clad western Himalayas continued to sweep the plains and brought the minimum temperature down to 3.

A cold wave gripped Delhi on Wednesday as frosty winds from the snow-clad western Himalayas continued to sweep the plains and brought the minimum temperature down to 3.2 degrees Celsius, the IMD said. "Dense" fog blanketed parts of the city, lowering visibility to 50 metres and affecting traffic movement. Cold wave conditions prevailed at the Safdarjung Observatory, which provides representative data for the city. It recorded a minimum of 3.2 degrees Celsius, four notches below the normal, said Kuldeep Srivastava, the regional forecasting centre head of the India Meteorological Department (IMD). In the plains, the IMD declares a cold wave if the minimum temperature dips to 4 degrees Celsius. A severe cold wave is when the minimum is 2 degrees Celsius or less. Cold and dry northerly/northwesterly winds from the western Himalayas have been barrelling through the plains, bringing down the minimum temperature in north India, Srivastava said. Similar conditions will prevail in the city over the next two days, he said. "Dense" fog lowered visibility to 50 metres at Palam and 200 metres at Safdarjung, the IMD said. According to the IMD, a "very dense" fog is when the visibility is between 0 and 50 metres. In case of a "dense" fog, the visibility is between 51 and 200 metres, "moderate" 201 and 500 metres, and "shallow" 501 and 1,000 metres. Delhi had been registering above-normal minimum temperatures till Monday, as a cloud cover persisted over the city under the influence of successive Western Disturbances (WDs). However, the temperature started dropping with the commencement of cold northwesterly winds after the withdrawal of the latest WD. The city's minimum had settled at 4.8 degrees Celsius on Tuesday, 7 degrees Celsius on Monday, 7.8 degrees Celsius on Sunday, 10.8 degrees Celsius on Saturday, 9.6 degrees Celsius on Friday and 14.4 degrees Celsius on Thursday, the highest in January in four years, according to the IMD.

Cold wave grips Delhi, mercury dips to 3.2 degrees Celsius

Covaxin maker Bharat Biotech has signed an agreement with Precisa Medicamentos, a firm in Brazil, to supply the COVID-19 vaccine candidate to the Latin American country.

The company will supply 12 million doses of Covaxin to Brazil.

Developed with Indian Council of Medical Research-National Institute of Virology, Covaxin is an inactivated two-dose vaccine and earlier this month had received emergency use authorisation from the Drugs Controller General of India. Phase III clinical trials for Covaxin that began in November are underway and involve around 26,000 volunteers across the country.

Brazil has registered over 8 million cases of the virus since the pandemic began, while the official death toll has risen over 203,000, the world’s second-deadliest coronavirus outbreak.

Brazil has signed agreements to receive other COVID-19 vaccines. Authorities there are facing growing pressure to speed up the vaccine rollout, which is lagging regional peers. Mexico, Chile and Argentina have already begun immunizations.

Meanwhile, Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro said on Wednesday he was right to criticize the credibility of a Chinese COVID-19 vaccine developed by Sinovac Biotech that posted disappointing efficacy results in local trials.

On Tuesday, researchers in Sao Paulo state announced that the Chinese vaccine was 50.4% effective at preventing symptomatic infections in a local trial - barely enough for regulatory approval and well below the rate announced last week.

Bolsonaro, a far-right former army captain, is a longstanding China hawk. He has repeatedly criticized the Sinovac shot, which was being late-stage tested by Sao Paulo's Butantan Institute, as untrustworthy. He previously said his government would not buy the Chinese vaccine but later relented as a criticism of Brazil's vaccine rollout has grown. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Covaxin maker Bharat Biotech has signed an agreement with Precisa Medicamentos, a firm in Brazil, to supply the COVID-19 vaccine candidate to the Latin American country.

Covaxin maker Bharat Biotech has signed an agreement with Precisa Medicamentos, a firm in Brazil, to supply the COVID-19 vaccine candidate to the Latin American country. The company will supply 12 million doses of Covaxin to Brazil. Developed with Indian Council of Medical Research-National Institute of Virology, Covaxin is an inactivated two-dose vaccine and earlier this month had received emergency use authorisation from the Drugs Controller General of India. Phase III clinical trials for Covaxin that began in November are underway and involve around 26,000 volunteers across the country. Brazil has registered over 8 million cases of the virus since the pandemic began, while the official death toll has risen over 203,000, the world’s second-deadliest coronavirus outbreak. Brazil has signed agreements to receive other COVID-19 vaccines. Authorities there are facing growing pressure to speed up the vaccine rollout, which is lagging regional peers. Mexico, Chile and Argentina have already begun immunizations. Meanwhile, Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro said on Wednesday he was right to criticize the credibility of a Chinese COVID-19 vaccine developed by Sinovac Biotech that posted disappointing efficacy results in local trials. On Tuesday, researchers in Sao Paulo state announced that the Chinese vaccine was 50.4% effective at preventing symptomatic infections in a local trial - barely enough for regulatory approval and well below the rate announced last week. Bolsonaro, a far-right former army captain, is a longstanding China hawk. He has repeatedly criticized the Sinovac shot, which was being late-stage tested by Sao Paulo's Butantan Institute, as untrustworthy. He previously said his government would not buy the Chinese vaccine but later relented as a criticism of Brazil's vaccine rollout has grown. (With inputs from agencies)

India's Bharat Biotech to supply its Covid-19 vaccine to Brazil

A lot is happening in the United Kingdom - with a new mutation of COVID-19, along with the disruption of daily life brought upon by Brexit. Owing to Brexit rules, businesses are drowning. But British members of parliament are busy discussing India.

British colonialists left India 73 years ago, but their colonial hangover seems to be persisting.

India remains a source of endless fascination for English lawmakers. Last week, British parliamentarians were lobbying to repeal India's farm laws. On Monday this week, they were debating minority rights in India. On January 13, they were discussing the political situation in Kashmir.

Parliamentarians are not just discussing India's internal affairs, but are taking sides on the topic of debates, and this has been going on for days. 
 
But what if the Indian parliament began discussing and debating what's happening in Britain? What if Indian MPs were to pass judgment on British policies?

The Windrush political scandal, which was unearthed in the UK revealed how 83 British citizens - mostly blacks were wrongly detained, denied legal rights, threatened and deported by the UK's home office. The country offered an apology to only 18.

In 2011, riots broke out in London after the police shooting of Mark Duggan, a young black British citizen.

Imagine the Indian Parliament debating the 2001 riots in Bradford, Harehills and Oldham, the 1991 riots in Oxford &amp; Dudley, the 1981 riots in Liverpool &amp; Birmingham, or the 1969 unrest in Northern Ireland over the discrimination against Catholic &amp; Irish nationalists.

India did not discuss these in parliament because India respects boundaries. On the other hand, by whipping anti-India rhetoric in Britain, they seek votes.

A lot is happening in the United Kingdom - with a new mutation of COVID-19, along with the disruption of daily life brought upon by Brexit. Owing to Brexit rules, businesses are drowning.

A lot is happening in the United Kingdom - with a new mutation of COVID-19, along with the disruption of daily life brought upon by Brexit. Owing to Brexit rules, businesses are drowning. But British members of parliament are busy discussing India. British colonialists left India 73 years ago, but their colonial hangover seems to be persisting. India remains a source of endless fascination for English lawmakers. Last week, British parliamentarians were lobbying to repeal India's farm laws. On Monday this week, they were debating minority rights in India. On January 13, they were discussing the political situation in Kashmir. Parliamentarians are not just discussing India's internal affairs, but are taking sides on the topic of debates, and this has been going on for days. But what if the Indian parliament began discussing and debating what's happening in Britain? What if Indian MPs were to pass judgment on British policies? The Windrush political scandal, which was unearthed in the UK revealed how 83 British citizens - mostly blacks were wrongly detained, denied legal rights, threatened and deported by the UK's home office. The country offered an apology to only 18. In 2011, riots broke out in London after the police shooting of Mark Duggan, a young black British citizen. Imagine the Indian Parliament debating the 2001 riots in Bradford, Harehills and Oldham, the 1991 riots in Oxford & Dudley, the 1981 riots in Liverpool & Birmingham, or the 1969 unrest in Northern Ireland over the discrimination against Catholic & Irish nationalists. India did not discuss these in parliament because India respects boundaries. On the other hand, by whipping anti-India rhetoric in Britain, they seek votes.

While Britain drowns in domestic problems, its parliamentarians are busy discussing India

The avian flu has been confirmed in eight states and the national capital. New Delhi's civic body on Wednesday issued an order directing restaurants and eateries not to serve chicken and egg preparations in light of the bird flu outbreak.

The North Delhi Municipal Corporation imposed a ban on sale and storage of poultry or processed chicken meat by shops and restaurants with immediate effect, in view of the bird flu situation in the national capital, according to an official order.

The order issued by the veterinary services department of the NDMC also said that owners of restaurants and hotels will face action if egg-based dishes or poultry meat and other products are served to customers.

The order has been issued in the public interest and should be diligently complied with, it said.

Testing of samples of crows and ducks had confirmed bird flu cases in the national capital on Monday, prompting the Delhi government to impose a ban on the sale of processed and packaged chicken brought from outside the city.

The Ghazipur poultry market has also closed by authorities.

"All meat and poultry shops and meat processing units in areas under the NDMC, are prohibited to sell, store poultry or processed or packaged chicken meat with immediate effect, till further orders," the North Corporation order said.

Several ducks at Sanjay Lake and a large number of crows across various city parks have been found dead in the last one week.

Reports of over 50 bird deaths were received on a helpline of the Delhi government's animal husbandry unit and 18 samples from different parts of the city were sent for avian flu testing on Tuesday, officials had said.

(With inputs from agencies)

The avian flu has been confirmed in eight states and the national capital. New Delhi's civic body on Wednesday issued an order directing restaurants and eateries not to serve chicken and egg preparations in light of the bird flu outbreak.

The avian flu has been confirmed in eight states and the national capital. New Delhi's civic body on Wednesday issued an order directing restaurants and eateries not to serve chicken and egg preparations in light of the bird flu outbreak. The North Delhi Municipal Corporation imposed a ban on sale and storage of poultry or processed chicken meat by shops and restaurants with immediate effect, in view of the bird flu situation in the national capital, according to an official order. The order issued by the veterinary services department of the NDMC also said that owners of restaurants and hotels will face action if egg-based dishes or poultry meat and other products are served to customers. The order has been issued in the public interest and should be diligently complied with, it said. Testing of samples of crows and ducks had confirmed bird flu cases in the national capital on Monday, prompting the Delhi government to impose a ban on the sale of processed and packaged chicken brought from outside the city. The Ghazipur poultry market has also closed by authorities. "All meat and poultry shops and meat processing units in areas under the NDMC, are prohibited to sell, store poultry or processed or packaged chicken meat with immediate effect, till further orders," the North Corporation order said. Several ducks at Sanjay Lake and a large number of crows across various city parks have been found dead in the last one week. Reports of over 50 bird deaths were received on a helpline of the Delhi government's animal husbandry unit and 18 samples from different parts of the city were sent for avian flu testing on Tuesday, officials had said. (With inputs from agencies)

Delhi bird flu: Govt advisory says eat poultry product cooked at high temperature

With coronavirus vaccines in the spotlight, it appears that the biggest challenge govts around the world may face is vaccine hesitancy.

Concerns over safety and the efficacy of the vaccines have been high in common public and could pose a challenge for the governments in carrying out the vaccination.

That hesitancy was most prevalent in Russia, with just 15% of people surveyed willing to get vaccinated as soon as possible and only a further 25% comfortable with the idea of doing so within a year.

In the US, it found a total of 59% of people were willing to get vaccinated within a year with just 33% happy to do so as soon as possible. The highest levels of trust were recorded in India, with 51% looking forward to taking up the vaccine opportunity immediately and a further 29% within a year, for a total of 80%.

In India, Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan had appealed to people not to be misguided by "rumours" and disinformation campaigns regarding the safety and efficacy of the coronavirus vaccine, stressing that there would be no compromise on any protocol while approving it.

“I appeal to people not to pay heed to rumours. Ensuring the safety and efficacy of the vaccine is our priority. Different kinds of rumours were spread during polio immunisation but people took the vaccine and India is now polio-free,” Harsh Vardhan was quoted as saying by news agency ANI.

With coronavirus vaccines in the spotlight, it appears that the biggest challenge govts around the world may face is vaccine hesitancy. Concerns over safety and the efficacy of the vaccines have been high in common public and could pose a challenge for the governments in carrying out the vaccination.

With coronavirus vaccines in the spotlight, it appears that the biggest challenge govts around the world may face is vaccine hesitancy. Concerns over safety and the efficacy of the vaccines have been high in common public and could pose a challenge for the governments in carrying out the vaccination. That hesitancy was most prevalent in Russia, with just 15% of people surveyed willing to get vaccinated as soon as possible and only a further 25% comfortable with the idea of doing so within a year. In the US, it found a total of 59% of people were willing to get vaccinated within a year with just 33% happy to do so as soon as possible. The highest levels of trust were recorded in India, with 51% looking forward to taking up the vaccine opportunity immediately and a further 29% within a year, for a total of 80%. In India, Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan had appealed to people not to be misguided by "rumours" and disinformation campaigns regarding the safety and efficacy of the coronavirus vaccine, stressing that there would be no compromise on any protocol while approving it. “I appeal to people not to pay heed to rumours. Ensuring the safety and efficacy of the vaccine is our priority. Different kinds of rumours were spread during polio immunisation but people took the vaccine and India is now polio-free,” Harsh Vardhan was quoted as saying by news agency ANI.

Covid vaccine hesitancy: Mistrust could threaten, limit coronavirus vaccine rollout

WhatsApp has over 2 billion users, out of which 400 million are from India. Recently, many users in India changed their WhatsApp display pictures to "boycott WhatsApp" logos.

Now, messages are being circulated over the application urging people to stop using it.

The service is spending lakhs of rupees to retain users. And WhatsApp's parent company, with its abysmal track record in privacy, is now defining privacy for Indians. WhatsApp's biggest market is&nbsp;India, but Indian users are among the most vulnerable.

On Wednesday, India woke up to full-page advertisements that read - "WhatsApp respects and protects your privacy".

The ads went on to claim the following - "Respect for your privacy is coded into our DNA".

"We cannot see your private message or hear your calls... WhatsApp cannot see your shared location, and neither can Facebook", it added.

For the third time, WhatsApp was attempting to sell its new privacy policy. The ads were plastered on at least four leading Indian newspapers, and many were on the front page.

But why would WhatsApp spend so much money on this PR gimmick? As a free service, what could it lose?

WhatsApp is neither free, nor a service. It is a business, and we are paying kind, or in other words, data. WhatsApp says it will not share your personal chats with Facebook.

But what will it share? Whenever you message a business on WhatsApp, Facebook will know your payment method including shipping details, transaction amount. In addition, Facebook will use the data to show you similar ads on its platform and on Instagram.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/technology/it-stays-between-you-whatsapp-issues-clarification-after-update-in-privacy-policy-356211" hreflang="en">'It stays between you': WhatsApp issues clarification after update in privacy policy</a>

If you have a business account, Facebook will track your group name, group picture, group description, payments, or any other business features. It will also know whether you are online, and when you were last online.

Whatsapp says it won't read you personal chats, so there's no way it is breaching your privacy. But this basis is flawed, for it assumes that business chats are not private/ 
WhatsApp is rewriting the definition of privacy to suit its business. This is what the ad said - "We want to be clear that the policy update does not affect the privacy of your messages with friends or family in any way. Instead, this update includes changes related to messaging a business on WhatsApp".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/technology/final-nail-in-coffin-telegram-again-trolls-whatsapp-over-new-privacy-update-356104" hreflang="en">Final nail in coffin: Telegram again trolls Whatsapp over new privacy update</a>

There's no scope for redressal in India, for the country does not have a data protection law. Whatsapp would not have been able to go ahead with this update in India with data protection in place.&nbsp;

Europe has the GDPR, or the General Data Protection Regulation. Owing to this law, European WhatsApp users cannot be forced to share their data with Facebook.

80 countries have data protection laws in place, and India is not one of them. Users now have two options - to either share their data, or to simply lose access to the application. And the update comes into force on February 8.

WhatsApp has over 2 billion users, out of which 400 million are from India. Recently, many users in India changed their WhatsApp display pictures to "boycott WhatsApp" logos.

WhatsApp has over 2 billion users, out of which 400 million are from India. Recently, many users in India changed their WhatsApp display pictures to "boycott WhatsApp" logos. Now, messages are being circulated over the application urging people to stop using it. The service is spending lakhs of rupees to retain users. And WhatsApp's parent company, with its abysmal track record in privacy, is now defining privacy for Indians. WhatsApp's biggest market is India, but Indian users are among the most vulnerable. On Wednesday, India woke up to full-page advertisements that read - "WhatsApp respects and protects your privacy". The ads went on to claim the following - "Respect for your privacy is coded into our DNA". "We cannot see your private message or hear your calls... WhatsApp cannot see your shared location, and neither can Facebook", it added. For the third time, WhatsApp was attempting to sell its new privacy policy. The ads were plastered on at least four leading Indian newspapers, and many were on the front page. But why would WhatsApp spend so much money on this PR gimmick? As a free service, what could it lose? WhatsApp is neither free, nor a service. It is a business, and we are paying kind, or in other words, data. WhatsApp says it will not share your personal chats with Facebook. But what will it share? Whenever you message a business on WhatsApp, Facebook will know your payment method including shipping details, transaction amount. In addition, Facebook will use the data to show you similar ads on its platform and on Instagram. Also read: 'It stays between you': WhatsApp issues clarification after update in privacy policy If you have a business account, Facebook will track your group name, group picture, group description, payments, or any other business features. It will also know whether you are online, and when you were last online. Whatsapp says it won't read you personal chats, so there's no way it is breaching your privacy. But this basis is flawed, for it assumes that business chats are not private/ WhatsApp is rewriting the definition of privacy to suit its business. This is what the ad said - "We want to be clear that the policy update does not affect the privacy of your messages with friends or family in any way. Instead, this update includes changes related to messaging a business on WhatsApp". Also read: Final nail in coffin: Telegram again trolls Whatsapp over new privacy update There's no scope for redressal in India, for the country does not have a data protection law. Whatsapp would not have been able to go ahead with this update in India with data protection in place. Europe has the GDPR, or the General Data Protection Regulation. Owing to this law, European WhatsApp users cannot be forced to share their data with Facebook. 80 countries have data protection laws in place, and India is not one of them. Users now have two options - to either share their data, or to simply lose access to the application. And the update comes into force on February 8.

WhatsApp is rewriting the definition of privacy to suit its business in India

Just a week before the Trump administration finishes its term, it has declassified one of the most crucial documents--the United States Strategic framework for the Indo-Pacific that gives an overarching view of Washington's policy for the region and New Delhi. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/the-us-election-on-indian-social-media-341069">Opinion: The US election on Indian social media</a>

The declassified document sees India as "net provider of security" with the object of the framework being to "solidify an enduring strategic partnership with India" which is "underpinned by a strong Indian military able to effectively collaborate with the US." 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-us-dialogue-to-lay-down-next-steps-for-global-cooperation-official-337610">Also read | India-US dialogue to lay down next steps for global cooperation: Official&nbsp;</a> 
 
India and US have come closer in the last two&nbsp;decades, from Clinton to Bush to Obama to the Trump administration. But it was only in the Trump administration, the focus was increasingly on the Indo Pacific as a vision, backed both by New Delhi and Washington.&nbsp;

Watch: US declassified Indo-Pacific report envisions India's growing role in the region | WION report

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-declassified-indo-pacific-report-envisions-indias-growing-role-in-the-region-wion-report-356479/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The declassified document calls for offering "support to India--through diplomatic, military, and intelligence channels--to help address continental challenges such as the border dispute with China and access to water, including the Brahmaputra and other rivers facing diversion by China"

While this document was approved in February 2018, the support on intelligence-sharing in China stands out amid the many month-long Line of actual (LAC) row between India-China. 2020 was one of the worst years in the New Delhi-Beijing relationship as aggressive Chinese forces tried to change the status quo in Eastern Ladakh.&nbsp;

The document, calls for building "a stronger foundation for defense cooperation and interoperability" between New Delhi and Washington with a focus on the expansion of "defense trade and increase cooperation on shared regional security concerns"

The focus is also on enhancing connectivity by "working with India and Japan to help finance projects that enhance regional connectivity". This comes even as China under its mega Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has been expanding connectivity in south Asia and the wider region but leaving a trail of debt, being referred to as Beijing's "debt-trap diplomacy".

On China, the document has been scathing, with a focus on "countering Chinese predatory economic practices that freeze out foreign competition" and working closely with "allies and like-minded countries to prevent Chinese acquisition of military and strategic capabilities"

The document was released by the US national security council and the white house said, the aim to release it is to "communicate to the American people and to our allies and partners" Washington's "enduring commitment" to keeping the "Indo-Pacific region free and open long into the future."

Just a week before the Trump administration finishes its term, it has declassified one of the most crucial documents--the United States Strategic framework for the Indo-Pacific that gives an overarching view of Washington's policy for the region and New Delhi.

Just a week before the Trump administration finishes its term, it has declassified one of the most crucial documents--the United States Strategic framework for the Indo-Pacific that gives an overarching view of Washington's policy for the region and New Delhi. Opinion: The US election on Indian social media The declassified document sees India as "net provider of security" with the object of the framework being to "solidify an enduring strategic partnership with India" which is "underpinned by a strong Indian military able to effectively collaborate with the US." Also read | India-US dialogue to lay down next steps for global cooperation: Official India and US have come closer in the last two decades, from Clinton to Bush to Obama to the Trump administration. But it was only in the Trump administration, the focus was increasingly on the Indo Pacific as a vision, backed both by New Delhi and Washington. Watch: US declassified Indo-Pacific report envisions India's growing role in the region | WION report The declassified document calls for offering "support to India--through diplomatic, military, and intelligence channels--to help address continental challenges such as the border dispute with China and access to water, including the Brahmaputra and other rivers facing diversion by China" While this document was approved in February 2018, the support on intelligence-sharing in China stands out amid the many month-long Line of actual (LAC) row between India-China. 2020 was one of the worst years in the New Delhi-Beijing relationship as aggressive Chinese forces tried to change the status quo in Eastern Ladakh. The document, calls for building "a stronger foundation for defense cooperation and interoperability" between New Delhi and Washington with a focus on the expansion of "defense trade and increase cooperation on shared regional security concerns" The focus is also on enhancing connectivity by "working with India and Japan to help finance projects that enhance regional connectivity". This comes even as China under its mega Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has been expanding connectivity in south Asia and the wider region but leaving a trail of debt, being referred to as Beijing's "debt-trap diplomacy". On China, the document has been scathing, with a focus on "countering Chinese predatory economic practices that freeze out foreign competition" and working closely with "allies and like-minded countries to prevent Chinese acquisition of military and strategic capabilities" The document was released by the US national security council and the white house said, the aim to release it is to "communicate to the American people and to our allies and partners" Washington's "enduring commitment" to keeping the "Indo-Pacific region free and open long into the future."

Declassified US documents on Indo-Pacific see India as ‘net security provider’, focus on intel sharing

The AAP government will provide coronavirus vaccine free to the people of Delhi if the Centre fails to do so, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said on Wednesday. He said he has already appealed to the Centre for ensuring free vaccination in the country since there are many people who may not afford the life-saving shot. "We will see what the Centre does.

If need be and the Centre does not provide the vaccine free of cost, we will make it available free of cost for the people of Delhi," he told reporters. The chief minister also appealed for not spreading rumours about the vaccine. "I understand that the Centre and our scientists have brought the vaccine following all the protocols and safeguards. So, there should not be any doubt and people should come forward for vaccination," he said.

Kejriwal said the coronavirus vaccine will be given first to healthcare and frontline workers, and he expressed hope it will provide relief to the people from the virus and the pain they suffered over the last one year.

The vaccination drive will begin in Delhi from Saturday at 89 centres.&nbsp;Around 51 lakh people, including health workers, frontline workers, those aged?50?years or above, and those with co-morbidities, will be covered under the first phase of vaccination in the national capital. Each person will be given two doses of the vaccine, and the government has estimated the requirement of 1.02 crore doses for the first phase of the vaccination in Delhi.

The Centre is bearing the cost of the first phase of vaccination of priority group people. Sources said over Rs 300 crore will be required to provide free COVID-19 vaccination to 1.5 crore people of around two crore population of Delhi. However, no information was immediately available from the Delhi government about the total number of people to be vaccinated and the expected funds needed for the same.

The AAP government will provide coronavirus vaccine free to the people of Delhi if the Centre fails to do so, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said on Wednesday. He said he has already appealed to the Centre for ensuring free vaccination in the country since there are many people who may not afford the life-saving shot.

The AAP government will provide coronavirus vaccine free to the people of Delhi if the Centre fails to do so, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said on Wednesday. He said he has already appealed to the Centre for ensuring free vaccination in the country since there are many people who may not afford the life-saving shot. "We will see what the Centre does. If need be and the Centre does not provide the vaccine free of cost, we will make it available free of cost for the people of Delhi," he told reporters. The chief minister also appealed for not spreading rumours about the vaccine. "I understand that the Centre and our scientists have brought the vaccine following all the protocols and safeguards. So, there should not be any doubt and people should come forward for vaccination," he said. Kejriwal said the coronavirus vaccine will be given first to healthcare and frontline workers, and he expressed hope it will provide relief to the people from the virus and the pain they suffered over the last one year. The vaccination drive will begin in Delhi from Saturday at 89 centres. Around 51 lakh people, including health workers, frontline workers, those aged?50?years or above, and those with co-morbidities, will be covered under the first phase of vaccination in the national capital. Each person will be given two doses of the vaccine, and the government has estimated the requirement of 1.02 crore doses for the first phase of the vaccination in Delhi. The Centre is bearing the cost of the first phase of vaccination of priority group people. Sources said over Rs 300 crore will be required to provide free COVID-19 vaccination to 1.5 crore people of around two crore population of Delhi. However, no information was immediately available from the Delhi government about the total number of people to be vaccinated and the expected funds needed for the same.

Will provide COVID-19 vaccine free to people of Delhi if Centre fails to do so: Kejriwal

Eminent social worker Padma Shri D Prakash Rao passed away at the SCB Medical College and Hospital here on Wednesday after 20 day long battle with Covid-19 and related ailments. He was 63.

Rao was hospitalised in December last year following difficulties in breathing. Later, he tested positive for Covid-19.

He was conferred with the prestigious Padma Shri award in 2019 by the Government of India for his contribution towards boosting the value of education among slum and orphan kids in Cuttack.

He was under the spotlight again a couple of years ago when PM Modi praised the noble samaritan in his radio address ‘Mann ki Baat’. 
 
"Saddened by the demise of Shri D Prakash Rao. The outstanding work that has done will continue motivating people. He rightly saw education as a vital means to empowerment. I recall my meeting with him in Cuttack a few years ago. Condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti," Prime Minister Modi tweeted, along with a photo of his meeting with the humble tea-seller.

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Saddened by the demise of Shri D Prakash Rao. The outstanding work that has done will continue motivating people. He rightly saw education as a vital means to empowerment. I recall my meeting with him in Cuttack a few years ago. Condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti. <a href="https://t.co/ECZ0NUFush">pic.twitter.com/ECZ0NUFush</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1349334280153956354?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik also expressed grief at the death Mr D Prakash Rao.

“Deeply saddened to know about the demise of philanthropist Padma Shri D Prakash Rao.The Good Samaritan will always be remembered for his dedication to uplift the lives of children through education. My thoughts &amp; prayers with the bereaved family members. RIP” tweeted Patnaik.

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Deeply saddened to know about the demise of philanthropist Padma Shri D Prakash Rao. The Good Samaritan will always be remembered for his dedication to uplift the lives of children through education. My thoughts &amp; prayers with the bereaved family members. RIP
— Naveen Patnaik (@Naveen_Odisha) <a href="https://twitter.com/Naveen_Odisha/status/1349328900132724736?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Patnaik also announced that Rao will be cremated with full state honours.

(With inputs from agencies)

Eminent social worker Padma Shri D Prakash Rao passed away at the SCB Medical College and Hospital here on Wednesday after 20 day long battle with Covid-19 and related ailments.

Eminent social worker Padma Shri D Prakash Rao passed away at the SCB Medical College and Hospital here on Wednesday after 20 day long battle with Covid-19 and related ailments. He was 63. Rao was hospitalised in December last year following difficulties in breathing. Later, he tested positive for Covid-19. He was conferred with the prestigious Padma Shri award in 2019 by the Government of India for his contribution towards boosting the value of education among slum and orphan kids in Cuttack. He was under the spotlight again a couple of years ago when PM Modi praised the noble samaritan in his radio address ‘Mann ki Baat’. "Saddened by the demise of Shri D Prakash Rao. The outstanding work that has done will continue motivating people. He rightly saw education as a vital means to empowerment. I recall my meeting with him in Cuttack a few years ago. Condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti," Prime Minister Modi tweeted, along with a photo of his meeting with the humble tea-seller. Saddened by the demise of Shri D Prakash Rao. The outstanding work that has done will continue motivating people. He rightly saw education as a vital means to empowerment. I recall my meeting with him in Cuttack a few years ago. Condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti. pic.twitter.com/ECZ0NUFush — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 13, 2021 × Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik also expressed grief at the death Mr D Prakash Rao. “Deeply saddened to know about the demise of philanthropist Padma Shri D Prakash Rao.The Good Samaritan will always be remembered for his dedication to uplift the lives of children through education. My thoughts & prayers with the bereaved family members. RIP” tweeted Patnaik. Deeply saddened to know about the demise of philanthropist Padma Shri D Prakash Rao. The Good Samaritan will always be remembered for his dedication to uplift the lives of children through education. My thoughts & prayers with the bereaved family members. RIP — Naveen Patnaik (@Naveen_Odisha) January 13, 2021 × Patnaik also announced that Rao will be cremated with full state honours. (With inputs from agencies)

Renowned social worker Padma Shri D Prakash Rao passes away at 63

Nepal foreign minister Pradeep Kumar Gyawali will be on a 3-day India visit from tomorrow with a focus on procuring COVID vaccines from India. Nepal wants 20% or around 12 million doses of Covid vaccines from India. He will be meeting India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar as part of the 6th Nepal-India joint commission meet for which the invite was extended last year.

A release by Nepal foreign ministry, "The Joint Commission Meeting will discuss the whole gamut of Nepal-India bilateral relations, including trade, transit, energy, boundary, COVID-19 cooperation, infrastructure, connectivity, investment, agriculture, tourism, culture, among others."

The joint commission meeting, which alternates between the 2 countries, takes place in New Delhi this year. The Fifth Joint Commission Meeting was held in August 2019 in Kathmandu with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar visiting the country. The Nepali delegation will consist of the Nepali envoy to India, Foreign Secretary, Health Secretary, and other senior officials of the Government of Nepal.

Last year saw 3 high-level visits from Delhi to Nepal. These include the visit of India's intelligence chief, followed by the Indian army chief, and then by the visit of the foreign secretary.

This is the first high-level visit from Kathmandu in over a year and comes in the backdrop of India Nepal row over the new map issued by the Oli government. The new Nepali map showed Indian territories of Lipulekh, Kalapani and Limpiyadhura as Nepali territories drawing the ire of New Delhi which dismissed the "Unjustified Cartographic Assertion'. He will be the first foreign minister to visit Delhi this year.

While the map row did impact the political ties, the focus on people to people relations continued. India has been involved in a number of projects in the country and plans to operationalize Jayanagar-Kurtha cross-border rail line. Earlier both countries inaugurated the Motihari–Amlekhgunj petroleum pipeline, the first cross country pipeline in south Asia. The pipeline can carry two million metric tonnes of petroleum products into Nepal and so far has led to a saving of over 800 million Nepali rupees.

Nepal foreign minister Pradeep Kumar Gyawali will be on a 3-day India visit from tomorrow with a focus on procuring COVID vaccines from India. Nepal wants 20% or around 12 million doses of Covid vaccines from India.

Nepal foreign minister Pradeep Kumar Gyawali will be on a 3-day India visit from tomorrow with a focus on procuring COVID vaccines from India. Nepal wants 20% or around 12 million doses of Covid vaccines from India. He will be meeting India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar as part of the 6th Nepal-India joint commission meet for which the invite was extended last year. A release by Nepal foreign ministry, "The Joint Commission Meeting will discuss the whole gamut of Nepal-India bilateral relations, including trade, transit, energy, boundary, COVID-19 cooperation, infrastructure, connectivity, investment, agriculture, tourism, culture, among others." The joint commission meeting, which alternates between the 2 countries, takes place in New Delhi this year. The Fifth Joint Commission Meeting was held in August 2019 in Kathmandu with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar visiting the country. The Nepali delegation will consist of the Nepali envoy to India, Foreign Secretary, Health Secretary, and other senior officials of the Government of Nepal. Last year saw 3 high-level visits from Delhi to Nepal. These include the visit of India's intelligence chief, followed by the Indian army chief, and then by the visit of the foreign secretary. This is the first high-level visit from Kathmandu in over a year and comes in the backdrop of India Nepal row over the new map issued by the Oli government. The new Nepali map showed Indian territories of Lipulekh, Kalapani and Limpiyadhura as Nepali territories drawing the ire of New Delhi which dismissed the "Unjustified Cartographic Assertion'. He will be the first foreign minister to visit Delhi this year. While the map row did impact the political ties, the focus on people to people relations continued. India has been involved in a number of projects in the country and plans to operationalize Jayanagar-Kurtha cross-border rail line. Earlier both countries inaugurated the Motihari–Amlekhgunj petroleum pipeline, the first cross country pipeline in south Asia. The pipeline can carry two million metric tonnes of petroleum products into Nepal and so far has led to a saving of over 800 million Nepali rupees.

With procurement of Covid vaccine in focus, Nepal FM to visit Delhi from tomorrow

India's National Security Advisor Ajit Doval is in Kabul, in the first high-level visit from Delhi to Afghanistan amid the peace process.

During his two-day visit, he met his counterpart Afghan NSA Hamdullah Mohib and called on Afghan President Ashraf Ghani.

During NSA's meet with President Ghani, counter-terror and building regional consensus for supporting peace in Afghanistan were the key topics.

President Ghani said the "Afghan Defense and Security Forces are guarantors of stability in Afghanistan and are at the forefront of the war against regional and global terrorism." Adding, "Afghanistan and India in joint efforts with NATO and the United States will be able to succeed in the fight against terrorism."

Last year saw three&nbsp;high-level visits from Afghanistan. These include&nbsp;a visit by Abdul Rashid Dostum, former vice president of Afghanistan, Chairperson of Afghanistan's High Council for National Reconciliation Dr Abdullah Abdullah, and Senior Afghan politician Ata Mohammad Noor.

India and Afghanistan have had a close engagement with New Delhi being the biggest financial support of the country in the region.

Other than mega infrastructure projects like the India Afghanistan friendship dam, and the Afghan Parliament, India has been helping the capacity building especially by providing scholarships to many Afghan students. &nbsp;

During the COVID crisis, India sent 75,000 tonnes of wheat and 20 tonnes of life-saving medicines and other equipment to Afghanistan.

India's National Security Advisor Ajit Doval is in Kabul, in the first high-level visit from Delhi to Afghanistan amid the peace process. During his two-day visit, he met his counterpart Afghan NSA Hamdullah Mohib and called on Afghan President Ashraf Ghani.

India's National Security Advisor Ajit Doval is in Kabul, in the first high-level visit from Delhi to Afghanistan amid the peace process. During his two-day visit, he met his counterpart Afghan NSA Hamdullah Mohib and called on Afghan President Ashraf Ghani. During NSA's meet with President Ghani, counter-terror and building regional consensus for supporting peace in Afghanistan were the key topics. President Ghani said the "Afghan Defense and Security Forces are guarantors of stability in Afghanistan and are at the forefront of the war against regional and global terrorism." Adding, "Afghanistan and India in joint efforts with NATO and the United States will be able to succeed in the fight against terrorism." Last year saw three high-level visits from Afghanistan. These include a visit by Abdul Rashid Dostum, former vice president of Afghanistan, Chairperson of Afghanistan's High Council for National Reconciliation Dr Abdullah Abdullah, and Senior Afghan politician Ata Mohammad Noor. India and Afghanistan have had a close engagement with New Delhi being the biggest financial support of the country in the region. Other than mega infrastructure projects like the India Afghanistan friendship dam, and the Afghan Parliament, India has been helping the capacity building especially by providing scholarships to many Afghan students. During the COVID crisis, India sent 75,000 tonnes of wheat and 20 tonnes of life-saving medicines and other equipment to Afghanistan.

With focus on Afghan peace process, India's NSA Doval in Kabul

Satellite building is all about utilising minimum resources to extract maximum output, it is by using the same principles that India’s veteran satellite builder Dr Mylswamy Annadurai has embarked on a new project to generate wealth from waste while aiding farmers.&nbsp;

Dr Annadurai currently serves as the vice president of the Tamil Nadu State Council for Science and Technology and is working with IIITDM Kanchipuram and the Tamil Nadu state government to realize this initiative that would boost the agriculture and MSME (micro, small and medium industries) sector.

Speaking at a virtual event hosted by IIT Gandhinagar, he elaborated on his vision that has been brought to reality to generate a multitude of usable products from the unused parts of the banana tree. While the fruit and the leaves are sold in the markets, the rest of the tree remains as waste, which farmers have to pay for, to even clear off and dispose of.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chandrayaans-discovery-of-water-on-moons-surface-re-started-race-for-lunar-exploration-padma-shri-mylswamy-annadurai-234383">Chandrayaan’s discovery of water on moon’s surface re-started race for lunar exploration: Padma Shri Mylswamy Annadurai</a>

The space scientist and his collaborators have conceptualised and developed machinery that can ensure efficient processing of all the parts of the banana tree under one roof.&nbsp;

“The raw fibre can be processed into garments, the powder content from the fibre can be used to add nutritional value to Maida, the banana stem can be processed to extract a health drink or even ethanol-based organic fertilizers. There are even plans to fabricate composite materials that find wide-ranging use in the automobile, aerospace and renewable energy(windmills) sector” he said.

With India(predominantly states in the south) being the largest cultivator of banana, the team behind this initiative feels that it can open up an all-new industry and reduce the strain on certain others.

“It takes nearly 60,000 litres of water to get 1kg of cotton yarn, but with far lesser resources and simpler processes, we can extract garment-grade fibre from the banana trees” Dr Annadurai points out.&nbsp;

According to the team’s analysis, India has about 10lakh acres of banana cultivation, of which every acre has at least 1000-1200 trees. By concentrating their efforts in four regions of Tamil Nadu, the team aims to operationalize automated factories to generate tons of useful products from the banana tree that goes waste. In a single day, about 7500 trees can be processed by a single unit of this new machine.&nbsp;

This project is expected to be ready for industry-induction by the end of January 2021.&nbsp;Referring to this project, the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister had said that his government would undertake research to double the income of banana farmers in the state.

Satellite building is all about utilising minimum resources to extract maximum output, it is by using the same principles that India’s veteran satellite builder Dr Mylswamy Annadurai has embarked on a new project to generate wealth from waste while aiding farmers.

Satellite building is all about utilising minimum resources to extract maximum output, it is by using the same principles that India’s veteran satellite builder Dr Mylswamy Annadurai has embarked on a new project to generate wealth from waste while aiding farmers. Dr Annadurai currently serves as the vice president of the Tamil Nadu State Council for Science and Technology and is working with IIITDM Kanchipuram and the Tamil Nadu state government to realize this initiative that would boost the agriculture and MSME (micro, small and medium industries) sector. Speaking at a virtual event hosted by IIT Gandhinagar, he elaborated on his vision that has been brought to reality to generate a multitude of usable products from the unused parts of the banana tree. While the fruit and the leaves are sold in the markets, the rest of the tree remains as waste, which farmers have to pay for, to even clear off and dispose of. Also read: Chandrayaan’s discovery of water on moon’s surface re-started race for lunar exploration: Padma Shri Mylswamy Annadurai The space scientist and his collaborators have conceptualised and developed machinery that can ensure efficient processing of all the parts of the banana tree under one roof. “The raw fibre can be processed into garments, the powder content from the fibre can be used to add nutritional value to Maida, the banana stem can be processed to extract a health drink or even ethanol-based organic fertilizers. There are even plans to fabricate composite materials that find wide-ranging use in the automobile, aerospace and renewable energy(windmills) sector” he said. With India(predominantly states in the south) being the largest cultivator of banana, the team behind this initiative feels that it can open up an all-new industry and reduce the strain on certain others. “It takes nearly 60,000 litres of water to get 1kg of cotton yarn, but with far lesser resources and simpler processes, we can extract garment-grade fibre from the banana trees” Dr Annadurai points out. According to the team’s analysis, India has about 10lakh acres of banana cultivation, of which every acre has at least 1000-1200 trees. By concentrating their efforts in four regions of Tamil Nadu, the team aims to operationalize automated factories to generate tons of useful products from the banana tree that goes waste. In a single day, about 7500 trees can be processed by a single unit of this new machine. This project is expected to be ready for industry-induction by the end of January 2021. Referring to this project, the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister had said that his government would undertake research to double the income of banana farmers in the state.

Veteran ISRO scientist aids farmers, develops banana waste processing technology

An Indian fast-food restaurant owner in Bath called Neeraj Gadher tried to send samosa and a wrap in space, however, the package landed in France.

To achieve this feat, Gadher packed the snacks in a box and attached it to helium weather balloon along with GoPro camera and a GPS tracker.

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In picture: Samosa and a wrap packed by Neeraj Gadher near the Bath skyline as captured by&nbsp;GoPro camera

However, Gadher's method&nbsp;to document the project malfunctioned when the GPS stopped working after reaching the Bath skyline.

A&nbsp;video summing up the entire experience is laughed upon online after endeavour made global headlines.&nbsp;

 
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In an interview with Somerset Live, Gadher said: “I said as a joke once that I would send a samosa into space, and then I thought during this bleak times we could all use a reason to laugh.”

Gadher's package landed in a forest in Cais, France. It was tracked down&nbsp;after one Instagram user called Alex Mathon responded to Gadher's plea of hunting it down.

''I was quite surprised when I received this message on Instagram. I didn’t understand why he contacted me, because it’s still an hour from my house,'' Mathon told&nbsp;La Voix du Nord.

“It was a bit like a treasure hunt, I thought it was crazy! We usually see this kind of story in the United States. Well, this is in a lost field in Picardy,” Mathon told&nbsp;France3.

An Indian fast-food restaurant owner in Bath called Neeraj Gadher tried to send samosa and a wrap in space, however, the package landed in France. To achieve this feat, Gadher packed the snacks in a box and attached it to helium weather balloon along with GoPro camera and a GPS tracker.

An Indian fast-food restaurant owner in Bath called Neeraj Gadher tried to send samosa and a wrap in space, however, the package landed in France. To achieve this feat, Gadher packed the snacks in a box and attached it to helium weather balloon along with GoPro camera and a GPS tracker. In picture: Samosa and a wrap packed by Neeraj Gadher near the Bath skyline as captured by GoPro camera However, Gadher's method to document the project malfunctioned when the GPS stopped working after reaching the Bath skyline. A video summing up the entire experience is laughed upon online after endeavour made global headlines. In an interview with Somerset Live, Gadher said: “I said as a joke once that I would send a samosa into space, and then I thought during this bleak times we could all use a reason to laugh.” Gadher's package landed in a forest in Cais, France. It was tracked down after one Instagram user called Alex Mathon responded to Gadher's plea of hunting it down. ''I was quite surprised when I received this message on Instagram. I didn’t understand why he contacted me, because it’s still an hour from my house,'' Mathon told La Voix du Nord. “It was a bit like a treasure hunt, I thought it was crazy! We usually see this kind of story in the United States. Well, this is in a lost field in Picardy,” Mathon told France3.

Indian restaurant owner tries to send samosa into space, package lands in France

India's Army chief General Naravane said today that Pakistan continues to "embrace terrorism and continues to use terror as state policy." "We reserve our right to respond at a time and place of our choosing with precision.

India's Army chief General Naravane said today that Pakistan continues to "embrace terrorism and continues to use terror as state policy." "We reserve our right to respond at a time and place of our choosing with precision. It is a clear message we have sent across," the Army chief said on the Pakistan threat. "We have zero-tolerance for terror," he added. General Naravane said the forces are "ready to meet any eventuality". "We have maintained a high state of alertness all along the northern borders. We are hoping for a peaceful solution but are ready to meet any eventuality. All logistics are taken care of," the Army chief added on tensions along the Line of Actual Control(LAC) with China. Naravane said that eight round of talks has been conducted between India and China on the situation at the LAC with another round due to take place. Naravane said the Army faced two principal challenges namely COVID-19 and situation along India's northern borders involving China. "We are alert and ever ready to meet challenges," the Army chief asserted. "Pakistan and China together form a potent threat and the threat of collusivity cannot be wished away," he added. Naravane said a broad roadmap is being prepared to bring in all the new technologies to develop a technology-enabled Army to meet challenges of the future. On the Chinese activities, the Army chief said every year the PLA comes to traditional training areas which have been vacated. "They were in depth area of Tibet plateau with no reduction in friction area," he added.

Pakistan, China together form a potent threat, says Indian Army chief General Naravane

Since 1893, Vivekananda's Chicago address has inspired human beings to rise above sectarianism.

Swami Vivekananda's life is a lesson against intolerance

India on Tuesday asserted that the international community must not allow terrorism to be justified and terrorists glorified as it told the UN Security Council that the crime syndicate responsible for the 1993 Mumbai bomb blasts is given not just State protection but enjoying 5-star hospitality, a thinly-veiled reference to the D-company head Dawood Ibrahim believed to be hiding in Pakistan.

"First, we must all summon up the political will to unhesitatingly combat terrorism. There must be no ifs and buts in this fight. Nor should we allow terrorism to be justified and terrorists glorified. All member States must fulfill their obligations enshrined in international counter terrorism instruments and conventions, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said in a virtual address.

Jaishankar was speaking at the UNSC Ministerial Meeting on Threats to international peace and security caused by terrorist acts: International cooperation in combating terrorism 20 years after the adoption of resolution 1373 (2001),' the first address by the minister to the Security Council after India began its two-year tenure on the 15-nation body this month.

Jaishankar proposed an eight-point Action Plan for the UN system to credibly address the menace of terrorism and ensure effective action.

He asserted that linkages between terrorism and transnational organised crime must be fully recognised and addressed vigorously.

He is the senior-most Indian leader to address the UNSC since India joined the powerful 15-member UN body as a non-permanent member this month for a two-year tenure.

"We, in India, have seen the crime syndicate responsible for the 1993 Mumbai bomb blasts not just given State protection but actually enjoying 5-star hospitality," he said, alluding to D-Company and its head Ibrahim, believed to be hiding in Pakistan.

In August last year, Pakistan had for the first time acknowledged the presence of Ibrahim on its soil after the government imposed sweeping sanctions on 88 banned terror groups and their leaders which also included the name of the underworld don wanted by India.

Jaishankar emphasised that the international community must not "countenance double standards" in the battle against terrorism.

"Terrorists are terrorists; there are no good and bad ones. Those who propagate this distinction have an agenda. And those who cover up for them are just as culpable," he said.

In a strongly-worded statement, Jaishankar said combating terrorist financing will only be as effective as the weakest jurisdiction.

The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) should continue to identify and remedy weaknesses in anti-money laundering and counter-terror financing frameworks.

He also added that enlisting and delisting individuals and entities under the UN sanctions regimes must be done objectively, not for political or religious considerations.

India on Tuesday asserted that the international community must not allow terrorism to be justified and terrorists glorified as it told the UN Security Council that the crime syndicate responsible for the 1993 Mumbai bomb blasts is given not just State protection but enjoying 5-star hospitality, a thinly-veiled reference to the D-company head Dawood Ibrahim believed to be hiding in Pakistan.

India on Tuesday asserted that the international community must not allow terrorism to be justified and terrorists glorified as it told the UN Security Council that the crime syndicate responsible for the 1993 Mumbai bomb blasts is given not just State protection but enjoying 5-star hospitality, a thinly-veiled reference to the D-company head Dawood Ibrahim believed to be hiding in Pakistan. "First, we must all summon up the political will to unhesitatingly combat terrorism. There must be no ifs and buts in this fight. Nor should we allow terrorism to be justified and terrorists glorified. All member States must fulfill their obligations enshrined in international counter terrorism instruments and conventions, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said in a virtual address. Jaishankar was speaking at the UNSC Ministerial Meeting on Threats to international peace and security caused by terrorist acts: International cooperation in combating terrorism 20 years after the adoption of resolution 1373 (2001),' the first address by the minister to the Security Council after India began its two-year tenure on the 15-nation body this month. Jaishankar proposed an eight-point Action Plan for the UN system to credibly address the menace of terrorism and ensure effective action. He asserted that linkages between terrorism and transnational organised crime must be fully recognised and addressed vigorously. He is the senior-most Indian leader to address the UNSC since India joined the powerful 15-member UN body as a non-permanent member this month for a two-year tenure. "We, in India, have seen the crime syndicate responsible for the 1993 Mumbai bomb blasts not just given State protection but actually enjoying 5-star hospitality," he said, alluding to D-Company and its head Ibrahim, believed to be hiding in Pakistan. In August last year, Pakistan had for the first time acknowledged the presence of Ibrahim on its soil after the government imposed sweeping sanctions on 88 banned terror groups and their leaders which also included the name of the underworld don wanted by India. Jaishankar emphasised that the international community must not "countenance double standards" in the battle against terrorism. "Terrorists are terrorists; there are no good and bad ones. Those who propagate this distinction have an agenda. And those who cover up for them are just as culpable," he said. In a strongly-worded statement, Jaishankar said combating terrorist financing will only be as effective as the weakest jurisdiction. The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) should continue to identify and remedy weaknesses in anti-money laundering and counter-terror financing frameworks. He also added that enlisting and delisting individuals and entities under the UN sanctions regimes must be done objectively, not for political or religious considerations.

Mumbai blasts perpetrators enjoying 5-star hospitality under State protection: Jaishankar tells UNSC

As India gets set to begin its <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/oxford-astrazeneca-vaccine-to-cost-rs200-a-vial-in-india-purchase-order-placed-with-sii-reports-356029">vaccination</a> drive against coronavirus on January 16, three trucks carrying "Covishield" vaccine reached Pune airport from Serum Institute of India&nbsp;on&nbsp;Tuesday morning to be transported to various parts of the country.

Watch:

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The first flight carrying the coronavirus vaccine "Covishield"&nbsp;departed from Pune International Airport to Delhi on Tuesday.

Serum Institute of India's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-vaccines-more-affordable-than-any-other-on-the-globe-pm-modi-356039">vaccine</a> "Covishield" will be shipped to different locations in the country from Pune airport.

Reports said at least eight flights will transport the "Covishield" vaccine from thirteen different locations today. The authorities have undertaken elaborate measures in order to ensure the safe passage of the vaccines, police said.

Ajay Singh, Managing Director, SpiceJet said: "SpiceJet has carried India’s first consignment of COVID-19 vaccine today. The first consignment of "Covishield" consisting of 34 boxes and weighing 1,088 kg was carried from Pune to Delhi."

PM Modi during his interaction with CMs of various states on Monday had said that "our vaccines are more affordable than any other vaccine on the globe. If India needed vaccine from other countries, it would've been a big challenge."

"India's vaccination experience will help during COVID-19 vaccination programme," PM Modi added. Indian authorities have given top priority to healthcare workers and frontline workers in the first phase of vaccination drive.

India has been hit hard due to the virus with over 10.4 million coronavirus cases and 151,160 deaths.&nbsp;

With ANI inputs

As India gets set to begin its vaccination drive against coronavirus on January 16, three trucks carrying "Covishield" vaccine reached Pune airport from Serum Institute of India on Tuesday morning to be transported to various parts of the country.

As India gets set to begin its vaccination drive against coronavirus on January 16, three trucks carrying "Covishield" vaccine reached Pune airport from Serum Institute of India on Tuesday morning to be transported to various parts of the country. Watch: The first flight carrying the coronavirus vaccine "Covishield" departed from Pune International Airport to Delhi on Tuesday. Serum Institute of India's vaccine "Covishield" will be shipped to different locations in the country from Pune airport. Reports said at least eight flights will transport the "Covishield" vaccine from thirteen different locations today. The authorities have undertaken elaborate measures in order to ensure the safe passage of the vaccines, police said. Ajay Singh, Managing Director, SpiceJet said: "SpiceJet has carried India’s first consignment of COVID-19 vaccine today. The first consignment of "Covishield" consisting of 34 boxes and weighing 1,088 kg was carried from Pune to Delhi." PM Modi during his interaction with CMs of various states on Monday had said that "our vaccines are more affordable than any other vaccine on the globe. If India needed vaccine from other countries, it would've been a big challenge." "India's vaccination experience will help during COVID-19 vaccination programme," PM Modi added. Indian authorities have given top priority to healthcare workers and frontline workers in the first phase of vaccination drive. India has been hit hard due to the virus with over 10.4 million coronavirus cases and 151,160 deaths. With ANI inputs

First flight of coronavirus vaccine Covishield flown to Delhi

Calling for "no ifs and buts" in the fight against terrorism, India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar on Tuesday gave an 8-point agenda at the United Nations Security Council for the "UN system to credibly address the menace of terrorism and ensure effective action".

Speaking at a video conference meet on International cooperation in combating terrorism marking 20 years since the adoption of Resolution 1373 (2001) EAM said,"It is time that all nations walk the talk and commit&nbsp;their actions to the goal of zero tolerance for terrorism."

EAM mentioned that "we must not countenance double standards in this battle.&nbsp;Terrorists are terrorists; there are no good and bad ones. Those who propagate this distinction have an agenda. And those who cover up for them are just as culpable."

UNSC Resolution 1373 was adopted on September 28, 2001 in the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks in New York. It calls on UN member states to implement measures to prevent and counter-terror at home and around the world.&nbsp;

During his address, both Pakistan and China got an earful.&nbsp;In a veiled reference EAM slammed&nbsp;Pakistan at UNSC, saying "there are also other States that are clearly guilty of aiding and supporting terrorism, and wilfully provide financial assistance and safe havens...the international community must collectively call out the latter and hold them accountable."

UN's 1267 committee lists largest numbers of Pakistanis as international terrorists. These include Masood Azhar, Hafiz Saeed, Zaki ur Rehman Lakhvi, many of whom responsible for terror attacks in India, including the 26/11 Mumbai terror attack.s&nbsp;

India's EAM pointed out in the 8 point plan of action that, "linkages between terrorism and transnational organised crime must be fully recognised and addressed vigorously", explaining that, "We, in India, have seen the crime syndicate responsible for the 1993 Mumbai bomb&nbsp;blasts not just given State protection but enjoying 5-star hospitality."

This is the first time India's EAM spoke at UNSC after India took over its membership on January 1, 2021 for a 2-year period.

On China, without mentioning its name, EAM said, "The practice of placing blocks and holds on listing requests without&nbsp;any rhyme or reason must end. This only erodes our collective credibility." Remember, Beijing&nbsp;had thwarted bids to list Masood Azhar as an international terrorist for 10 years.

In the plan of action, he listed "enlisting and delisting individuals and entities" under the UN sanctions regimes "must be done objectively, not for political or religious considerations", calling the "proposals in this regard merit due examination before circulation". This is significant even as Pakistan has been trying to use loopholes in the sanctions regime to get "basic expense" for listed international terrorists like Hafiz Saeed.

The focus was also on "preventing terrorists from accessing financial resources" with Financial Action Task Force (FATF) continuing to "identify and remedy weaknesses in anti-money laundering and counter-terror financing frameworks".

Tunisia&nbsp;chaired the meet, given it is heading the UN body for the current month. Other key speakers at the meet were Under-Secretary-General of the UN Office of Counter-Terrorism Vladimir Voronkov, Executive Director of the Counter-Terrorism Executive Directorate, Michèle Coninsx.&nbsp;Last week India's foreign secretary Harsh Shringla addressed a meet at the body highlighting New Delhi's commitment to the African continent.

The development comes at a time&nbsp;as India chairs the Taliban Sanctions Committee and the Counter Terrorism Committee for the year 2022. With India chairing the 2 committees, the spotlight is expected to increase on Islamabad's lack luster record on acting on cross-border terror.

Calling for "no ifs and buts" in the fight against terrorism, India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar on Tuesday gave an 8-point agenda at the United Nations Security Council for the "UN system to credibly address the menace of terrorism and ensure effective action".

Calling for "no ifs and buts" in the fight against terrorism, India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar on Tuesday gave an 8-point agenda at the United Nations Security Council for the "UN system to credibly address the menace of terrorism and ensure effective action". Speaking at a video conference meet on International cooperation in combating terrorism marking 20 years since the adoption of Resolution 1373 (2001) EAM said,"It is time that all nations walk the talk and commit their actions to the goal of zero tolerance for terrorism." EAM mentioned that "we must not countenance double standards in this battle. Terrorists are terrorists; there are no good and bad ones. Those who propagate this distinction have an agenda. And those who cover up for them are just as culpable." UNSC Resolution 1373 was adopted on September 28, 2001 in the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks in New York. It calls on UN member states to implement measures to prevent and counter-terror at home and around the world. During his address, both Pakistan and China got an earful. In a veiled reference EAM slammed Pakistan at UNSC, saying "there are also other States that are clearly guilty of aiding and supporting terrorism, and wilfully provide financial assistance and safe havens...the international community must collectively call out the latter and hold them accountable." UN's 1267 committee lists largest numbers of Pakistanis as international terrorists. These include Masood Azhar, Hafiz Saeed, Zaki ur Rehman Lakhvi, many of whom responsible for terror attacks in India, including the 26/11 Mumbai terror attack.s India's EAM pointed out in the 8 point plan of action that, "linkages between terrorism and transnational organised crime must be fully recognised and addressed vigorously", explaining that, "We, in India, have seen the crime syndicate responsible for the 1993 Mumbai bomb blasts not just given State protection but enjoying 5-star hospitality." This is the first time India's EAM spoke at UNSC after India took over its membership on January 1, 2021 for a 2-year period. On China, without mentioning its name, EAM said, "The practice of placing blocks and holds on listing requests without any rhyme or reason must end. This only erodes our collective credibility." Remember, Beijing had thwarted bids to list Masood Azhar as an international terrorist for 10 years. In the plan of action, he listed "enlisting and delisting individuals and entities" under the UN sanctions regimes "must be done objectively, not for political or religious considerations", calling the "proposals in this regard merit due examination before circulation". This is significant even as Pakistan has been trying to use loopholes in the sanctions regime to get "basic expense" for listed international terrorists like Hafiz Saeed. The focus was also on "preventing terrorists from accessing financial resources" with Financial Action Task Force (FATF) continuing to "identify and remedy weaknesses in anti-money laundering and counter-terror financing frameworks". Tunisia chaired the meet, given it is heading the UN body for the current month. Other key speakers at the meet were Under-Secretary-General of the UN Office of Counter-Terrorism Vladimir Voronkov, Executive Director of the Counter-Terrorism Executive Directorate, Michèle Coninsx. Last week India's foreign secretary Harsh Shringla addressed a meet at the body highlighting New Delhi's commitment to the African continent. The development comes at a time as India chairs the Taliban Sanctions Committee and the Counter Terrorism Committee for the year 2022. With India chairing the 2 committees, the spotlight is expected to increase on Islamabad's lack luster record on acting on cross-border terror.

At UNSC, EAM says 'no ifs and buts' in the fight against terrorism; Pakistan, China get earful

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