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Traders' body CAIT on Sunday wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi seeking "strong action" against e-commerce firms for alleged violation of FDI policy by them. It also sought setting up of an empowered regulatory authority to regulate and monitor the e-commerce business in India.

In the letter to the Prime Minister, the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) claimed that "big e-commerce companies having deep pockets are leaving no stone unturned in monopolising the e-commerce business and retail trade of India with their malpractices and violating FDI policy of the government and relevant laws and rules".

It further said that "despite making several complaints against them, so far no concrete action has been taken and therefore it has become a major roadblock for small businesses to conduct online business activities".

The traders' body claimed that various government authorities have failed to protect the sanctity of the policy and law of the government.

"Though the Ministry of Commerce has taken some initiatives to impress upon them to conduct their business activities under the purview of the law but these e-commerce companies have been avoiding the law on one pretext or the other," CAIT said in the letter.

The traders' body while "urging for strong action against e-commerce companies" also requested that an e-commerce policy should be announced immediately with an explicit provision of empowered regulatory authority.

Traders' body CAIT on Sunday wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi seeking "strong action" against e-commerce firms for alleged violation of FDI policy by them. It also sought setting up of an empowered regulatory authority to regulate and monitor the e-commerce business in India.

Traders' body CAIT on Sunday wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi seeking "strong action" against e-commerce firms for alleged violation of FDI policy by them. It also sought setting up of an empowered regulatory authority to regulate and monitor the e-commerce business in India. In the letter to the Prime Minister, the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) claimed that "big e-commerce companies having deep pockets are leaving no stone unturned in monopolising the e-commerce business and retail trade of India with their malpractices and violating FDI policy of the government and relevant laws and rules". It further said that "despite making several complaints against them, so far no concrete action has been taken and therefore it has become a major roadblock for small businesses to conduct online business activities". The traders' body claimed that various government authorities have failed to protect the sanctity of the policy and law of the government. "Though the Ministry of Commerce has taken some initiatives to impress upon them to conduct their business activities under the purview of the law but these e-commerce companies have been avoiding the law on one pretext or the other," CAIT said in the letter. The traders' body while "urging for strong action against e-commerce companies" also requested that an e-commerce policy should be announced immediately with an explicit provision of empowered regulatory authority.

CAIT writes to PM Narendra Modi, alleges a violation of FDI norms by e-commerce companies

India is all set to host the 19th meeting of the SCO Council of Heads of Government in a virtual format on Monday, which will be chaired by Vice President Venkaiah Naidu.

India to host SCO heads of govt meet on Nov 30, Pak PM Imran to skip

The government of India on Sunday rejected remarks about the Kashmir issue in resolutions adopted at a meeting in Organisation of Islamic Conference (OIC), describing them as “factually incorrect, gratuitous and unwarranted”.

India has called out on the Islamic Grouping for being used by Pakistan, terming it "regrettable."

"We strongly and categorically reject the factually incorrect, gratuitous and unwarranted references to India in resolutions adopted by the Organisation of Islamic Conference (OIC) at the 47th CFM Session in Niamey," the MEA said.

"We have always maintained that OIC has no locus standi in matters strictly internal to India including that of Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir which is an integral and inalienable part of India," it said.

The OIC is a grouping of Muslim-majority nations.

"It is regrettable that OIC continues to allow itself to be used by a certain country, which has an abominable record on religious tolerance, radicalism and persecution of minorities, to indulge in anti-India propaganda," the MEA said.

It said India strongly advises the OIC to refrain from making such references in future.

(With inputs from agencies)

The government of India on Sunday rejected remarks about the Kashmir issue in resolutions adopted at a meeting in Organisation of Islamic Conference (OIC), describing them as “factually incorrect, gratuitous and unwarranted”.

The government of India on Sunday rejected remarks about the Kashmir issue in resolutions adopted at a meeting in Organisation of Islamic Conference (OIC), describing them as “factually incorrect, gratuitous and unwarranted”. India has called out on the Islamic Grouping for being used by Pakistan, terming it "regrettable." "We strongly and categorically reject the factually incorrect, gratuitous and unwarranted references to India in resolutions adopted by the Organisation of Islamic Conference (OIC) at the 47th CFM Session in Niamey," the MEA said. "We have always maintained that OIC has no locus standi in matters strictly internal to India including that of Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir which is an integral and inalienable part of India," it said. The OIC is a grouping of Muslim-majority nations. "It is regrettable that OIC continues to allow itself to be used by a certain country, which has an abominable record on religious tolerance, radicalism and persecution of minorities, to indulge in anti-India propaganda," the MEA said. It said India strongly advises the OIC to refrain from making such references in future. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Factually incorrect and unwarranted’: India hits out at Islamic Nations for Pak-sponsored references to Kashmir in OIC resolutions

The Delhi government on Monday ordered all private laboratories to lower the price of RT-PCR tests to Rs 800 (USD 10.81) from Rs 2,400 (USD 32.43) in the national capital.&nbsp;

"I have directed that the rates of RT-PCR tests be reduced in Delhi. Whereas tests are being conducted free of cost in government establishments, this (price cut) will help those who get their tests done in private labs," Delhi Chief Minister wrote in a tweet.&nbsp;

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I have directed that the rates of RT PCR tests be reduced in Delhi. Whereas tests are being conducted free of cost in govt establishments, however this will help those who get their tests done in pvt labs.
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However, the order issued by the health department said the cost of testing for samples collected at home will be Rs 1,200 (USD 16.21).&nbsp;

Several Indian states, including Rajasthan, Maharashtra and Rajasthan have reduced the price of PCR tests, that are considered as the gold standard to test Covid-19 after nation's top medical research body ICMR said that prices need to be controlled at the state level.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/at-68-delhi-reports-lowest-coronavirus-toll-after-november-5-346296">At 68, Delhi reports lowest coronavirus toll after November 5</a>

The Delhi government's order also asked hospitals to display the revised rates at a prominent place within 24 hours.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Delhi on Sunday recorded 4,906 coronavirus cases, the second successive day when the city saw less than 5,000 infections.&nbsp;

As many as 68 people died of Covid-19 in the national capital on Sunday, lowest since November 5, taking the toll total death toll over 9,000.&nbsp;

According to government figures, Delhi saw the maximum number of cases in a day, 8,593 on November 11 and the highest daily death toll, 131 on November 18 due to a sharp rise in air pollution and Diwali.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

The Delhi government on Monday ordered all private laboratories to lower the price of RT-PCR tests to Rs 800 (USD 10.81) from Rs 2,400 (USD 32.43) in the national capital.

The Delhi government on Monday ordered all private laboratories to lower the price of RT-PCR tests to Rs 800 (USD 10.81) from Rs 2,400 (USD 32.43) in the national capital. "I have directed that the rates of RT-PCR tests be reduced in Delhi. Whereas tests are being conducted free of cost in government establishments, this (price cut) will help those who get their tests done in private labs," Delhi Chief Minister wrote in a tweet. I have directed that the rates of RT PCR tests be reduced in Delhi. Whereas tests are being conducted free of cost in govt establishments, however this will help those who get their tests done in pvt labs. — Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) November 30, 2020 × However, the order issued by the health department said the cost of testing for samples collected at home will be Rs 1,200 (USD 16.21). Several Indian states, including Rajasthan, Maharashtra and Rajasthan have reduced the price of PCR tests, that are considered as the gold standard to test Covid-19 after nation's top medical research body ICMR said that prices need to be controlled at the state level. Also read | At 68, Delhi reports lowest coronavirus toll after November 5 The Delhi government's order also asked hospitals to display the revised rates at a prominent place within 24 hours. Meanwhile, Delhi on Sunday recorded 4,906 coronavirus cases, the second successive day when the city saw less than 5,000 infections. As many as 68 people died of Covid-19 in the national capital on Sunday, lowest since November 5, taking the toll total death toll over 9,000. According to government figures, Delhi saw the maximum number of cases in a day, 8,593 on November 11 and the highest daily death toll, 131 on November 18 due to a sharp rise in air pollution and Diwali.

Coronavirus: Now RT-PCR tests in national capital will cost about $10

A US court has set February 12 as the date of hearing for the extradition of Pakistani-origin Canadian businessman Tahawwur Rana, who has been declared a fugitive by India for his involvement in the 2008 Mumbai terror attack case.

The 59-year-old Rana, a childhood friend of David Coleman Headley, was re-arrested on June 10 in Los Angeles on an extradition request by India for his involvement in the 2008 Mumbai terror attack in which 166 people, including six Americans, were killed.

US District Court Judge in Los Angeles Jacqueline Chelonian said in her order on November 13 that the Extradition Hearing in this case is scheduled for February 12, 2021, at 10:00 a.m.

Rana has time till December 21 to file his opposition to the request for extradition.

The United States Government will have another months' time to file its reply.

In its motion on September 28, the US government supported Rana's extradition to India where he has been charged with the offenses of conspiracy to wage war, commit a terrorist act, the waging of war, the commission of murder, and a terrorist act.

Rana, in his defense, has argued that the US' decision not to extradite his co-conspirator, David Headley, to India is inconsistent and bars his extradition.

However, the US government argued differently "because Headley fulfilled the required terms, the plea agreement established that Headley would not be extradited to India," said US attorney Nicola T Hanna.

"Rana's situation is different because he neither pleaded guilty nor cooperated with the United States. As a result, cannot avail himself of the benefits afforded to Headley through his negotiated plea. Such a position is neither inconsistent nor a bar to extradition," he said.

Unlike Rana, Headley immediately accepted responsibility for his conduct and pleaded guilty to all of the charges in the Superseding Indictment, Hanna said.

As per the plea agreement, the United States agreed that it would not extradite Headley to India "for the foregoing offences, including conduct within the scope of those offences for which he has been convicted in accordance with this plea so long as he fully discloses all material facts concerning his role with respect to these offences and abides by all other aspects of this agreement."

Pakistan-born Rana completed Army Medical College there, and served in the Pakistani Army as a doctor for more than a decade, but eventually deserted.

He is currently a Canadian citizen but was a resident of Chicago where he had a business.

According to the court papers, he has also resided in and travelled to Canada, Pakistan, Germany and England and speaks seven languages.

According to the federal prosecutors, between 2006 and November 2008, Rana conspired with Headley, also known as 'Daood Gilani', and others in Pakistan to assist Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Harakat ul-Jihad-e-Islami, both US-designated terrorist organisations, to plan and carry out the Mumbai terrorist attacks.

Pakistani-American LeT terrorist Headley was involved in plotting the 2008 Mumbai terror attack.

He was made an approver in the case, and is currently serving a 35-year prison term in the US for his role in the attack.

India seeks his arrest on a number of offences, including the conspiracy to commit murder, conspiracy to commit forgery for the purpose of cheating, and murder under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC).

The 2008 Mumbai attack was one of the most horrific terrorist attacks in India in which 166 people were killed and over 300 injured as 10 heavily-armed terrorists from Pakistan created mayhem in the country's financial capital.

Pakistani national Mohammed Ajmal Kasab, the lone terrorist captured alive, was hanged to death on November 21, 2012.

A US court has set February 12 as the date of hearing for the extradition of Pakistani-origin Canadian businessman Tahawwur Rana, who has been declared a fugitive by India for his involvement in the 2008 Mumbai terror attack case.

A US court has set February 12 as the date of hearing for the extradition of Pakistani-origin Canadian businessman Tahawwur Rana, who has been declared a fugitive by India for his involvement in the 2008 Mumbai terror attack case. The 59-year-old Rana, a childhood friend of David Coleman Headley, was re-arrested on June 10 in Los Angeles on an extradition request by India for his involvement in the 2008 Mumbai terror attack in which 166 people, including six Americans, were killed. US District Court Judge in Los Angeles Jacqueline Chelonian said in her order on November 13 that the Extradition Hearing in this case is scheduled for February 12, 2021, at 10:00 a.m. Rana has time till December 21 to file his opposition to the request for extradition. The United States Government will have another months' time to file its reply. In its motion on September 28, the US government supported Rana's extradition to India where he has been charged with the offenses of conspiracy to wage war, commit a terrorist act, the waging of war, the commission of murder, and a terrorist act. Rana, in his defense, has argued that the US' decision not to extradite his co-conspirator, David Headley, to India is inconsistent and bars his extradition. However, the US government argued differently "because Headley fulfilled the required terms, the plea agreement established that Headley would not be extradited to India," said US attorney Nicola T Hanna. "Rana's situation is different because he neither pleaded guilty nor cooperated with the United States. As a result, cannot avail himself of the benefits afforded to Headley through his negotiated plea. Such a position is neither inconsistent nor a bar to extradition," he said. Unlike Rana, Headley immediately accepted responsibility for his conduct and pleaded guilty to all of the charges in the Superseding Indictment, Hanna said. As per the plea agreement, the United States agreed that it would not extradite Headley to India "for the foregoing offences, including conduct within the scope of those offences for which he has been convicted in accordance with this plea so long as he fully discloses all material facts concerning his role with respect to these offences and abides by all other aspects of this agreement." Pakistan-born Rana completed Army Medical College there, and served in the Pakistani Army as a doctor for more than a decade, but eventually deserted. He is currently a Canadian citizen but was a resident of Chicago where he had a business. According to the court papers, he has also resided in and travelled to Canada, Pakistan, Germany and England and speaks seven languages. According to the federal prosecutors, between 2006 and November 2008, Rana conspired with Headley, also known as 'Daood Gilani', and others in Pakistan to assist Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Harakat ul-Jihad-e-Islami, both US-designated terrorist organisations, to plan and carry out the Mumbai terrorist attacks. Pakistani-American LeT terrorist Headley was involved in plotting the 2008 Mumbai terror attack. He was made an approver in the case, and is currently serving a 35-year prison term in the US for his role in the attack. India seeks his arrest on a number of offences, including the conspiracy to commit murder, conspiracy to commit forgery for the purpose of cheating, and murder under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). The 2008 Mumbai attack was one of the most horrific terrorist attacks in India in which 166 people were killed and over 300 injured as 10 heavily-armed terrorists from Pakistan created mayhem in the country's financial capital. Pakistani national Mohammed Ajmal Kasab, the lone terrorist captured alive, was hanged to death on November 21, 2012.

Extradition hearing for 26/11 terror attack accused Tahawwur Rana to be held on February 12

India is looking to be self-reliant in the development and production of COVID-19 vaccine as the world races to develop a vaccine against the disease.While at least five pharmaceutical companies of India are engaged in vaccine development, Serum Institute in Pune has been chosen for mass production of Covishield vaccine developed by Oxford -Astra Zeneca.

A total of 10 vaccine candidates have been supported by Department of Biotechnology so far at both academia and industry and as on date, five vaccine candidates are in the human trials stage.

A PMO release said the government has initiated a robust COVID-19 vaccine manufacturing and delivery ecosystem to meet the demand.It said Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been personally monitoring the progress of vaccine development in India.

He visited facilities of Zydus in Ahmedabad, Serum Institute in Pune and Bharat Biotech in Hyderabad on Saturday. The Prime Minister held a virtual review of the progress of indigenous vaccine development undertaken by Gennova Biopharma of Pune and Biological E and Dr Reddy`s Laboratories in Hyderabad today.

PM Modi asked the companies to come out with their suggestions and ideas regarding the regulatory processes and related matters. He also suggested that they should take extra efforts to inform people in simple language about the vaccine and related matters such as its efficacy.

Matters relating to logistics, transport, cold chain in respect of delivering the vaccines were also discussed.The government has announced a stimulus package of Rs 900 crore for mission COVID Suraksha to promote indigenous vaccine development.

The release said that COVID-19 Vaccine Development Mission with end-to-end focus from preclinical development, through clinical development and manufacturing and regulatory facilitation for deployment, would consolidate all available and funded resources towards accelerated product development.

"The other important objective will be supporting the development of common harmonized protocols, training, data management systems, regulatory submissions, internal and external quality management systems and accreditations," it said.

The release said that the grant will be provided to the Department of Biotechnology for Research and Development of Indian COVID-19 vaccines and ensure that they are fast-tracked for introduction in public health systems, subject to all regulatory clearances.

Ambassadors of 100 countries are scheduled to arrive in Pune on December 4 to visit Serum Institute of India and Gennova Biopharma.

The release said Sweden has already acknowledged India`s role as the "pharmacy of the world" and is focusing on expanding bilateral cooperation in the areas of health and life sciences in view of the Coronavirus pandemic.

It said Luxembourg-based company B Systems is partnering with India to produce portable vaccine refrigeration equipment, which will address the issue of vaccine distribution in India.PM Modi had held a virtual summit with his Luxembourg counterpart Xavier Bettel on November 19 during which stress was laid on intensifying bilateral cooperation.

India is looking to be self-reliant in the development and production of COVID-19 vaccine as the world races to develop a vaccine against the disease.While at least five pharmaceutical companies of India are engaged in vaccine development, Serum Institute in Pune has been chosen for mass production of Covishield vaccine developed by Oxford -Astra Zeneca.

India is looking to be self-reliant in the development and production of COVID-19 vaccine as the world races to develop a vaccine against the disease.While at least five pharmaceutical companies of India are engaged in vaccine development, Serum Institute in Pune has been chosen for mass production of Covishield vaccine developed by Oxford -Astra Zeneca. A total of 10 vaccine candidates have been supported by Department of Biotechnology so far at both academia and industry and as on date, five vaccine candidates are in the human trials stage. A PMO release said the government has initiated a robust COVID-19 vaccine manufacturing and delivery ecosystem to meet the demand.It said Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been personally monitoring the progress of vaccine development in India. He visited facilities of Zydus in Ahmedabad, Serum Institute in Pune and Bharat Biotech in Hyderabad on Saturday. The Prime Minister held a virtual review of the progress of indigenous vaccine development undertaken by Gennova Biopharma of Pune and Biological E and Dr Reddy`s Laboratories in Hyderabad today. PM Modi asked the companies to come out with their suggestions and ideas regarding the regulatory processes and related matters. He also suggested that they should take extra efforts to inform people in simple language about the vaccine and related matters such as its efficacy. Matters relating to logistics, transport, cold chain in respect of delivering the vaccines were also discussed.The government has announced a stimulus package of Rs 900 crore for mission COVID Suraksha to promote indigenous vaccine development. The release said that COVID-19 Vaccine Development Mission with end-to-end focus from preclinical development, through clinical development and manufacturing and regulatory facilitation for deployment, would consolidate all available and funded resources towards accelerated product development. "The other important objective will be supporting the development of common harmonized protocols, training, data management systems, regulatory submissions, internal and external quality management systems and accreditations," it said. The release said that the grant will be provided to the Department of Biotechnology for Research and Development of Indian COVID-19 vaccines and ensure that they are fast-tracked for introduction in public health systems, subject to all regulatory clearances. Ambassadors of 100 countries are scheduled to arrive in Pune on December 4 to visit Serum Institute of India and Gennova Biopharma. The release said Sweden has already acknowledged India`s role as the "pharmacy of the world" and is focusing on expanding bilateral cooperation in the areas of health and life sciences in view of the Coronavirus pandemic. It said Luxembourg-based company B Systems is partnering with India to produce portable vaccine refrigeration equipment, which will address the issue of vaccine distribution in India.PM Modi had held a virtual summit with his Luxembourg counterpart Xavier Bettel on November 19 during which stress was laid on intensifying bilateral cooperation.

India looking to be self-reliant in development, production of vaccine against COVID-19

Long queues of vehicles choked the roads in parts of the national capital on Monday as the Delhi Police kept the Singhu and Tikri borders closed and heightened checking at other places in the wake of the ongoing protests by farmers.

Both the border points at Singhu and Tikri remained closed with the farmers rejecting the Centre's offer to hold talks over the new farm laws opposed by them.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-says-farmers-being-misled-calls-new-laws-historic-agriculture-reform-346468">PM Modi says farmers being 'misled', calls new laws 'historic agriculture reform'</a>

The closure of borders has also resulted in heavy traffic on other alternate routes between Delhi and Haryana.

The Delhi Traffic Police tweeted, "Singhu Border is still closed from both sides. Please take alternate route. Traffic has been diverted from Mukarba Chowk &amp; GTK road. Traffic is very very heavy. Please avoid outer ring road from signature bridge to Rohini &amp; vice versa, GTK road, NH 44 &amp; Singhu borders.?

In another tweet, it said Tikri border is also closed for traffic movement whiel Jharoda, Dhansa, Daurala Jhatikara, Badusari, Kapashera, Rajokri NH 8, Bijwasan-Bajghera, Palam vihar and Dundahera borders were open and available to Haryana.

Policemen in large numbers were deployed on the Delhi-Gurgaon border and vehicle checking was intensified.

Deputy Commissioner of Police (Southwest) Ingit Pratap Singh said, "We have not received any inputs on farmers coming here but as a precautionary measure, we have deployed our forces."

The Gurugram Traffic Police also alerted commuters about the congestion.

"Traffic congestion has been reported on NH-48 near Sarhol Toll towards Delhi due to slow entry of vehicles into Delhi. @TrafficGGM is on the spot to facilitate the traffic. Inconvenience caused is highly regretted," it tweeted from its official handle.

The agitating farmers demanding scrapping of the new farm laws have also warned to close all five entry points to the national capital.

After a meeting of over 30 farmer groups on Sunday, their representatives said they will not move to the Burari ground for their protest as suggested by the Centre.

They said the farmers will not accept any conditional dialogue and will block all five entry points to Delhi.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Long queues of vehicles choked the roads in parts of the national capital on Monday as the Delhi Police kept the Singhu and Tikri borders closed and heightened checking at other places in the wake of the ongoing protests by farmers.

Long queues of vehicles choked the roads in parts of the national capital on Monday as the Delhi Police kept the Singhu and Tikri borders closed and heightened checking at other places in the wake of the ongoing protests by farmers. Both the border points at Singhu and Tikri remained closed with the farmers rejecting the Centre's offer to hold talks over the new farm laws opposed by them. Also read | PM Modi says farmers being 'misled', calls new laws 'historic agriculture reform' The closure of borders has also resulted in heavy traffic on other alternate routes between Delhi and Haryana. The Delhi Traffic Police tweeted, "Singhu Border is still closed from both sides. Please take alternate route. Traffic has been diverted from Mukarba Chowk & GTK road. Traffic is very very heavy. Please avoid outer ring road from signature bridge to Rohini & vice versa, GTK road, NH 44 & Singhu borders.? In another tweet, it said Tikri border is also closed for traffic movement whiel Jharoda, Dhansa, Daurala Jhatikara, Badusari, Kapashera, Rajokri NH 8, Bijwasan-Bajghera, Palam vihar and Dundahera borders were open and available to Haryana. Policemen in large numbers were deployed on the Delhi-Gurgaon border and vehicle checking was intensified. Deputy Commissioner of Police (Southwest) Ingit Pratap Singh said, "We have not received any inputs on farmers coming here but as a precautionary measure, we have deployed our forces." The Gurugram Traffic Police also alerted commuters about the congestion. "Traffic congestion has been reported on NH-48 near Sarhol Toll towards Delhi due to slow entry of vehicles into Delhi. @TrafficGGM is on the spot to facilitate the traffic. Inconvenience caused is highly regretted," it tweeted from its official handle. The agitating farmers demanding scrapping of the new farm laws have also warned to close all five entry points to the national capital. After a meeting of over 30 farmer groups on Sunday, their representatives said they will not move to the Burari ground for their protest as suggested by the Centre. They said the farmers will not accept any conditional dialogue and will block all five entry points to Delhi.

Traffic woes continue in Delhi amid farmers' protest

Vice-President of India Venkaiah Naidu said during his address at the SCO council of heads meeting that India condemned all forms of terrorism.

India hosts SCO heads of govt meet; PM Modi & Pak PM Imran Khan skips the meet

In a sign of its growing global outreach, the Indian Navy is associating with 21 countries and 22 multi-national agencies for quick sharing of information related to maritime activities in the Indian Ocean region. 
 
At any given time, the Indian Navy monitors close to 12,000 ships and 300 fishing vessels in the Indian Ocean Region. Apart from that, there are close to 3 lakh Indian fishing vessels operating in the seas and their activities too are observed by the force. 
 
The Indian Ocean Region accounts for 75 per cent of the world`s maritime trade and 50 percent of global consumption passes through it prompting security measures involving multiple countries. 
 
Now, the Indian Navy is able to get real time information through its Information Fusion Centre - Indian Ocean Region. 
 
The force is associated with 21 countries including Australia, France, Italy, Japan, the Maldives, the US, New Zealand, Mauritius, Myanmar and Bangladesh, among others, along with 22 multi-national agencies for quick sharing of information in the Indian Ocean Region. 
 
The International Fusion Centre, located at Gurugram, was started in December 2018 to facilitate maritime information to the member countries. 
 
Three countries -- France, Japan, and the US -- have sent their liaison officers to the centre for better coordination and real time sharing of sea activities, while many more countries are expected to deploy their liaison officers, once Covid-19 protocols are lifted. 
 
The Indian Navy has got the go ahead to have white shipping agreements with 36 countries, out of which 22 have been signed and 17 operationalised, sources said. 
 
Earlier this month, the `Malabar` maritime exercise between navies of the Quad or Quadrilateral Coalition - an informal security forum comprising India, the US, Japan and Australia - in Indian Ocean Region was hosted in two phases by Indian Navy in the Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea. 
 
This set up is apart from Indian government`s Security and Growth for All in the Region (Sagar) initiative which reiterates India`s position as a dependable partner in Indian Ocean Region with Indian Navy as the principal maritime agency and first responder in the maritime domain.

In a sign of its growing global outreach, the Indian Navy is associating with 21 countries and 22 multi-national agencies for quick sharing of information related to maritime activities in the Indian Ocean region.

In a sign of its growing global outreach, the Indian Navy is associating with 21 countries and 22 multi-national agencies for quick sharing of information related to maritime activities in the Indian Ocean region. At any given time, the Indian Navy monitors close to 12,000 ships and 300 fishing vessels in the Indian Ocean Region. Apart from that, there are close to 3 lakh Indian fishing vessels operating in the seas and their activities too are observed by the force. The Indian Ocean Region accounts for 75 per cent of the world`s maritime trade and 50 percent of global consumption passes through it prompting security measures involving multiple countries. Now, the Indian Navy is able to get real time information through its Information Fusion Centre - Indian Ocean Region. The force is associated with 21 countries including Australia, France, Italy, Japan, the Maldives, the US, New Zealand, Mauritius, Myanmar and Bangladesh, among others, along with 22 multi-national agencies for quick sharing of information in the Indian Ocean Region. The International Fusion Centre, located at Gurugram, was started in December 2018 to facilitate maritime information to the member countries. Three countries -- France, Japan, and the US -- have sent their liaison officers to the centre for better coordination and real time sharing of sea activities, while many more countries are expected to deploy their liaison officers, once Covid-19 protocols are lifted. The Indian Navy has got the go ahead to have white shipping agreements with 36 countries, out of which 22 have been signed and 17 operationalised, sources said. Earlier this month, the `Malabar` maritime exercise between navies of the Quad or Quadrilateral Coalition - an informal security forum comprising India, the US, Japan and Australia - in Indian Ocean Region was hosted in two phases by Indian Navy in the Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea. This set up is apart from Indian government`s Security and Growth for All in the Region (Sagar) initiative which reiterates India`s position as a dependable partner in Indian Ocean Region with Indian Navy as the principal maritime agency and first responder in the maritime domain.

Expanding outreach: Indian Navy ties up with 21 nations for maritime awareness

India has observed that there is an increasing trend of Chinese research vessels and fishing vessels operating in the Indian Ocean Region, raising security concerns for countries in the ocean. 
 
While the Chinese fishing vessels indicate the country`s growing footprint in the Indian Ocean Region, the research vessels have raised security concerns as they could be surveying the characteristics of the sea water for improving submarine warfare capabilities. 
 
"There has been a steady rise in the deployment of Chinese research vessels in Indian Ocean Region. The general area of deployment has been observed in ninety-degree East Ridge and South-West Indian Ridge," said a source in the government. 
 
The source also stated that there is also an increasing trend of Chinese Fishing Vessels in high seas in the Indian Ocean Region. Around 300 Chinese fishing vessels sail every year but last year almost 450 vessels sailed. "The fishing activity has a seasonal behaviour wherein the fishing vessels withdraw from Arabian Sea prior to the onset of monsoon and return in September and October," the source said. 
 
The concentration of Chinese fishing activities has been observed in the Central Arabian Sea and South West Indian Ocean. 
 
It was further pointed that the Chinese Navy ships including their submarines frequent the waters on the pretext of anti-piracy operations 
 
The Indian Navy is aware of China`s growing maritime prowess in the Indian Ocean Region as it is expanding its naval operations. Further, China has also been shifting a lot of resources from other arms to the Navy, keeping in line with their aim of becoming a global power. 
 
Last year in September, a Chinese vessel close to the Indian waters was whisked away after it was suspected to be on a spying mission. 
 
These research vessels come in the Indian Ocean Region also to either survey areas for deep sea mining or to study the characteristics of the water for ensuring the safety of submarines from anti-submarine warfare, the source said. 
 
However, these vessels are tracked by the Automatic Identification System (AIS) transponders fitted in them. 
 
The AIS information, comprising an AIS code that is specific to a country, is clearly detectable and the Indian Navy is keeping an eye on each and every Chinese vessel entering the region.

India has observed that there is an increasing trend of Chinese research vessels and fishing vessels operating in the Indian Ocean Region, raising security concerns for countries in the ocean.

India has observed that there is an increasing trend of Chinese research vessels and fishing vessels operating in the Indian Ocean Region, raising security concerns for countries in the ocean. While the Chinese fishing vessels indicate the country`s growing footprint in the Indian Ocean Region, the research vessels have raised security concerns as they could be surveying the characteristics of the sea water for improving submarine warfare capabilities. "There has been a steady rise in the deployment of Chinese research vessels in Indian Ocean Region. The general area of deployment has been observed in ninety-degree East Ridge and South-West Indian Ridge," said a source in the government. The source also stated that there is also an increasing trend of Chinese Fishing Vessels in high seas in the Indian Ocean Region. Around 300 Chinese fishing vessels sail every year but last year almost 450 vessels sailed. "The fishing activity has a seasonal behaviour wherein the fishing vessels withdraw from Arabian Sea prior to the onset of monsoon and return in September and October," the source said. The concentration of Chinese fishing activities has been observed in the Central Arabian Sea and South West Indian Ocean. It was further pointed that the Chinese Navy ships including their submarines frequent the waters on the pretext of anti-piracy operations The Indian Navy is aware of China`s growing maritime prowess in the Indian Ocean Region as it is expanding its naval operations. Further, China has also been shifting a lot of resources from other arms to the Navy, keeping in line with their aim of becoming a global power. Last year in September, a Chinese vessel close to the Indian waters was whisked away after it was suspected to be on a spying mission. These research vessels come in the Indian Ocean Region also to either survey areas for deep sea mining or to study the characteristics of the water for ensuring the safety of submarines from anti-submarine warfare, the source said. However, these vessels are tracked by the Automatic Identification System (AIS) transponders fitted in them. The AIS information, comprising an AIS code that is specific to a country, is clearly detectable and the Indian Navy is keeping an eye on each and every Chinese vessel entering the region.

Growing presence of Chinese research and fishing vessels in Indian Ocean raises security concerns

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Monday announced that a cyclone brewing in the Bay of Bengal is likely to affect Tamil Nadu and Kerala, less than a week after cyclone Nivar wreaked havoc in the southern states. 
 
The cyclone will cross the Sri Lanka coast on December 2 and bring heavy rain over Tamil Nadu and Kerala, it said in the bulletin. Fishermen out at sea are advised to return to the coast by Monday. 
 
The depression in southeast Bay of Bengal is very likely to intensify into a deep depression during next 12 hours and into a cyclonic storm during subsequent 24 hours. "It is very likely to move west-northwestwards and cross the Sri Lanka coast during evening or night of 2nd December," the IMD said. 
 
The cyclone is very like to move nearly westwards thereafter and emerge into Comorin area on December 3 morning, it added. Once it attains strength, it will be called `Burevi`. 
 
It will bring isolated extremely heavy falls over south Tamil Nadu in Kanyakumari, Tirunelveli, Thoothukudi, Tenkasi, Ramanathapuram and Sivaganga areas on December 2 and 3. In south Kerala, it will bring showers at Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta and Alappuzah areas on December 3. 
 
Fishermen are advised not to venture into southeast Bay of Bengal from November 30 to December 1, southwest Bay of Bengal and along and off east Sri Lanka coast from December 1 to 3. 
 
They have been asked not to venture into Comorin area, Gulf of Mannar and south Tamil Nadu-Kerala coasts from December 2 to 4 and over Lakshadweep-Maldives area and adjoining southeast Arabian Sea from December 3 to 4. The IMD advised total suspension of fishing operation during November 30 to December 4 over the areas. 
 
On November 25, severe cyclone Nivar had hit near Karaikal and brought along extremely heavy rain over Puducherry, Tamil Nadu and coastal Andhra Pradesh.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Monday announced that a cyclone brewing in the Bay of Bengal is likely to affect Tamil Nadu and Kerala, less than a week after cyclone Nivar wreaked havoc in the southern states.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Monday announced that a cyclone brewing in the Bay of Bengal is likely to affect Tamil Nadu and Kerala, less than a week after cyclone Nivar wreaked havoc in the southern states. The cyclone will cross the Sri Lanka coast on December 2 and bring heavy rain over Tamil Nadu and Kerala, it said in the bulletin. Fishermen out at sea are advised to return to the coast by Monday. The depression in southeast Bay of Bengal is very likely to intensify into a deep depression during next 12 hours and into a cyclonic storm during subsequent 24 hours. "It is very likely to move west-northwestwards and cross the Sri Lanka coast during evening or night of 2nd December," the IMD said. The cyclone is very like to move nearly westwards thereafter and emerge into Comorin area on December 3 morning, it added. Once it attains strength, it will be called `Burevi`. It will bring isolated extremely heavy falls over south Tamil Nadu in Kanyakumari, Tirunelveli, Thoothukudi, Tenkasi, Ramanathapuram and Sivaganga areas on December 2 and 3. In south Kerala, it will bring showers at Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta and Alappuzah areas on December 3. Fishermen are advised not to venture into southeast Bay of Bengal from November 30 to December 1, southwest Bay of Bengal and along and off east Sri Lanka coast from December 1 to 3. They have been asked not to venture into Comorin area, Gulf of Mannar and south Tamil Nadu-Kerala coasts from December 2 to 4 and over Lakshadweep-Maldives area and adjoining southeast Arabian Sea from December 3 to 4. The IMD advised total suspension of fishing operation during November 30 to December 4 over the areas. On November 25, severe cyclone Nivar had hit near Karaikal and brought along extremely heavy rain over Puducherry, Tamil Nadu and coastal Andhra Pradesh.

After Nivar, cyclone 'Burevi' to hit Tamil Nadu, Kerala

The status of HIV/AIDS epidemic in north-eastern states of India is indeed alarming, said a report by the National AIDS Control Organisation (NACO). 
 
The AIDS-related mortality per 1,00,000 population in India was estimated to be the highest in Manipur (36.86), followed by Mizoram (28.34), Nagaland (26.20), Andhra Pradesh (21.76), Puducherry (15.33), Meghalaya (11.08) and Telangana (10.79), the NACO report added. 
 
Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare`s Joint Secretary, Alok Saxena, in his observation, incorporated in the recent NACO report, said evidence has emerged globally that HIV-infected people are more at Covid-19 death risk as compared to HIV-negative patients. 
 
"The challenges for the National AIDS Control Programme have multiplied with the Covid-19 pandemic," Saxena added in the NACO report available with IANS. 
 
In another disturbing development, the trend of Intravenous Drug Users (IDU) is rising at a rocket speed among the youth between 15 and 20 years in several north-eastern states, especially in Tripura, Mizoram, Manipur and Nagaland. 
 
"The IDU or the HIV/AIDS prevalence are now a major public health problem instead of a simple health issue. To check the rapidly rising trend, we are robustly working with other 11 departments of Tripura government, including Education, Social Education and Welfare, Sports. Police," Tripura state AIDS Control Society`s Project Director Phanindra Kumar Majumder told IANS. 
 
According to the Excise and Narcotics Department officials from Mizoram, nearly 1,645 people have died of drug abuse in the state since 1984 when the first case was reported. 
 
"Sharing of a common syringe by injecting drug users is a key reason for Mizoram becoming one of the leading states of HIV/AIDS prevalent in India, registering an average of five to six HIV positive cases a day," an Excise and Narcotics Department official on condition of anonymity told IANS. 
 
Besides, Mizoram with 2.04 per cent, in two other north-eastern states Manipur and Nagaland, the HIV prevalence rates are 1.43 per cent and 1.15 per cent per one million people, respectively. 
 
Mizoram recorded more than 20,000 HIV positive cases and nearly 2,000 deaths since the first case in 1990. Smuggling of drugs, arms and other contraband worth thousands of crores takes place frequently in the north-eastern region from across the borders, especially from Myanmar. 
 
Officials said the drugs were smuggled from Myanmar which shares 1,643 km of unfenced border with four north-eastern states -- Mizoram (510 km), Arunachal Pradesh (520 km), Manipur (398 km) and Nagaland (215 km). 
 
The drugs mainly the Methamphetamine tablets (also called Yaba tablet or party tablet) contain a mix of methamphetamine and caffeine and are misused as high-dosage drugs in Bangladesh and neighbouring countries, besides India. 
 
A recent 100-page study report submitted to Mizoram state AIDS Control Society said the drugs and substance abuse problem in Mizo society probably started as a spill over of international drug trafficking. 
 
"Mizoram shares two long international borders, one with Myanmar and the "Golden Triangle" in the east and with Bangladesh in the west. The geographical location of the state provides an easy route for trafficking of heroin. 
 
Being adjacent to the "Golden Triangle", Mizoram is one of the drug trafficking routes from the Golden Triangle to India and elsewhere. Drug abuse has become a rampant problem among the youth with the initial drug abuse of heroin. 
 
"The report said before 1978, social evils like drug addiction and substance abuse were not much known even though, it cannot be said that there was no such problem. 
 
However, after half a decade the first death due to overdose of heroin injection was witnessed when a 24-year-old youth died due to heroin overdose in 1984. Since then there was a noticeable rise in the growth of substance abuse population and heroin, Proxyvon, cough syrup, sedatives, Nitrozepam and volatile are the preferred drugs of choice. 
 
The 100-page NACO report said nationally HIV incidence was estimated at 0.05 per 1,000 uninfected population in 2019. It had declined from 0.54 in 1995 to 0.05 in 2019. 
 
"State and Union Territory (UT)-wise, incidence per 1,000 uninfected population was estimated to be the highest in the three north-eastern states of Mizoram (1.18 per 1,000 uninfected population), Nagaland (0.73) and Manipur (0.34) in 2019. Among Female Sex Worker (FSW), incidence (percentage) in the country was as high as 2.12 per cent in Meghalaya, followed by 1.14 per cent in Mizoram and Nagaland." 
 
The report said the state and UT-wise, annual AIDS-related deaths were estimated to have declined from 2010 to 2019 across the country excluding Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, Tripura, Jammu and Kashmir, Jharkhand and Assam. 
 
Nationally the annual new HIV infections had decreased by 37 per cent since 2010. The decline in annual new HIV infections had been witnessed in all states and UTs except Tripura, Arunachal Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Chandigarh. 
 
"Except Manipur, the HIV prevalence in the north-eastern states has shown a stable to rising trend due to a relatively higher number of annual new HIV infections. Annual new HIV infections have increased in Arunachal Pradesh and Tripura while being almost stable in Mizoram and Nagaland during 2010-2019." 
 
There is a need for community-driven integrated AIDS response in these states on an urgent basis to respond to the growing HIV problem in the region," the NACO report said.

The status of HIV/AIDS epidemic in north-eastern states of India is indeed alarming, said a report by the National AIDS Control Organisation (NACO). The AIDS-related mortality per 1,00,000 population in India was estimated to be the highest in Manipur (36.

The status of HIV/AIDS epidemic in north-eastern states of India is indeed alarming, said a report by the National AIDS Control Organisation (NACO). The AIDS-related mortality per 1,00,000 population in India was estimated to be the highest in Manipur (36.86), followed by Mizoram (28.34), Nagaland (26.20), Andhra Pradesh (21.76), Puducherry (15.33), Meghalaya (11.08) and Telangana (10.79), the NACO report added. Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare`s Joint Secretary, Alok Saxena, in his observation, incorporated in the recent NACO report, said evidence has emerged globally that HIV-infected people are more at Covid-19 death risk as compared to HIV-negative patients. "The challenges for the National AIDS Control Programme have multiplied with the Covid-19 pandemic," Saxena added in the NACO report available with IANS. In another disturbing development, the trend of Intravenous Drug Users (IDU) is rising at a rocket speed among the youth between 15 and 20 years in several north-eastern states, especially in Tripura, Mizoram, Manipur and Nagaland. "The IDU or the HIV/AIDS prevalence are now a major public health problem instead of a simple health issue. To check the rapidly rising trend, we are robustly working with other 11 departments of Tripura government, including Education, Social Education and Welfare, Sports. Police," Tripura state AIDS Control Society`s Project Director Phanindra Kumar Majumder told IANS. According to the Excise and Narcotics Department officials from Mizoram, nearly 1,645 people have died of drug abuse in the state since 1984 when the first case was reported. "Sharing of a common syringe by injecting drug users is a key reason for Mizoram becoming one of the leading states of HIV/AIDS prevalent in India, registering an average of five to six HIV positive cases a day," an Excise and Narcotics Department official on condition of anonymity told IANS. Besides, Mizoram with 2.04 per cent, in two other north-eastern states Manipur and Nagaland, the HIV prevalence rates are 1.43 per cent and 1.15 per cent per one million people, respectively. Mizoram recorded more than 20,000 HIV positive cases and nearly 2,000 deaths since the first case in 1990. Smuggling of drugs, arms and other contraband worth thousands of crores takes place frequently in the north-eastern region from across the borders, especially from Myanmar. Officials said the drugs were smuggled from Myanmar which shares 1,643 km of unfenced border with four north-eastern states -- Mizoram (510 km), Arunachal Pradesh (520 km), Manipur (398 km) and Nagaland (215 km). The drugs mainly the Methamphetamine tablets (also called Yaba tablet or party tablet) contain a mix of methamphetamine and caffeine and are misused as high-dosage drugs in Bangladesh and neighbouring countries, besides India. A recent 100-page study report submitted to Mizoram state AIDS Control Society said the drugs and substance abuse problem in Mizo society probably started as a spill over of international drug trafficking. "Mizoram shares two long international borders, one with Myanmar and the "Golden Triangle" in the east and with Bangladesh in the west. The geographical location of the state provides an easy route for trafficking of heroin. Being adjacent to the "Golden Triangle", Mizoram is one of the drug trafficking routes from the Golden Triangle to India and elsewhere. Drug abuse has become a rampant problem among the youth with the initial drug abuse of heroin. "The report said before 1978, social evils like drug addiction and substance abuse were not much known even though, it cannot be said that there was no such problem. However, after half a decade the first death due to overdose of heroin injection was witnessed when a 24-year-old youth died due to heroin overdose in 1984. Since then there was a noticeable rise in the growth of substance abuse population and heroin, Proxyvon, cough syrup, sedatives, Nitrozepam and volatile are the preferred drugs of choice. The 100-page NACO report said nationally HIV incidence was estimated at 0.05 per 1,000 uninfected population in 2019. It had declined from 0.54 in 1995 to 0.05 in 2019. "State and Union Territory (UT)-wise, incidence per 1,000 uninfected population was estimated to be the highest in the three north-eastern states of Mizoram (1.18 per 1,000 uninfected population), Nagaland (0.73) and Manipur (0.34) in 2019. Among Female Sex Worker (FSW), incidence (percentage) in the country was as high as 2.12 per cent in Meghalaya, followed by 1.14 per cent in Mizoram and Nagaland." The report said the state and UT-wise, annual AIDS-related deaths were estimated to have declined from 2010 to 2019 across the country excluding Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, Tripura, Jammu and Kashmir, Jharkhand and Assam. Nationally the annual new HIV infections had decreased by 37 per cent since 2010. The decline in annual new HIV infections had been witnessed in all states and UTs except Tripura, Arunachal Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Chandigarh. "Except Manipur, the HIV prevalence in the north-eastern states has shown a stable to rising trend due to a relatively higher number of annual new HIV infections. Annual new HIV infections have increased in Arunachal Pradesh and Tripura while being almost stable in Mizoram and Nagaland during 2010-2019." There is a need for community-driven integrated AIDS response in these states on an urgent basis to respond to the growing HIV problem in the region," the NACO report said.

Spread of HIV/AIDS in Northeast India alarming: Report

Kazakhstan's President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev is expected to visit India in early 2021, which will be his first to the country since taking charge in 2019. Speaking exclusively to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Kazakh envoy Yerlan Alimbayev said, "Kazakhstan is interested in expanding ties with India, given its growing role in world economy and politics.". He also spoke at length on the significance of First December in his country which is celebrated as "Day of the First President" to pay honour to the Nursultan Nazarbayev, who ruled the country for nearly 3 decades. Envoy Alimbayev said, "First President proclaimed the equality of rights of all the people of Kazakhstan, regardless of ethnic and religious affiliations, as one of the fundamental principles of state policy."

Sidhant Sibal: How do you see India Kazakh relations. Both are members of the SCO. Infact, Kazakhstan takes over as the new Chairman of SCO head of govt from India. What can we expect..

Yerlan Alimbayev: Since Nursultan Nazarbayev is the founder of independent Kazakhstan, it is difficult to overestimate his contribution to the establishment and development of bilateral relations between Kazakhstan and India. Relations between Kazakhstan and India have exhibited considerable dynamism and momentum. India was one of the first countries to recognize Kazakhstan as a free, sovereign state. It is particularly noteworthy to mention that India was the very first country Nursultan Nazarbayev visited in February 1992 as the President of independent Kazakhstan. Diplomatic relations were officially established during this historic visit. This decision demonstrated the deep respect and admiration in which President Nazarbayev and the people of Kazakhstan hold India as a country endowed with a glorious past, having a vibrant present and blessed with a bright future. In 2009, by signing the Declaration on Strategic Partnership cooperation between our countries was brought to a higher level. At present we are working on the first State visit of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev as soon as the situation with the pandemic stabilizes in early 2021. Kazakhstan remains a major trading partner of India in Central Asia and the second largest in CIS region. Our bilateral trade turnover has reached 2,2 billion USD over the 9 months of 2020. During the years of independence, Nursultan Nazarbayev was personally involved in the country's most significant investment projects, which to this day are successfully working in Kazakhstan. In particular, several Indian citizens and companies have a significant presence in Kazakhstan. Arcelor-Mittal Temirtau is a major investment project by an Indian non-resident. Several other well-known companies like Infosys, Punj Lloyd Kazakhstan Limited, KEC International Limited, TCS, ONGC Videsh Ltd. etc. have been active in this market in the area of construction of oil and gas, electric transmission lines, IT, etc. In the area of pharmaceuticals, large Indian companies are represented in the market.

Sidhant Sibal: What kind of convergence we see on foreign affairs between the 2 countries...

Yerlan Alimbayev: In the area of foreign relations, Kazakhstan launched the Conference on Interaction and Confidence Building Measures in Asia (CICA) through the address by President Nazarbayev to the United Nations General Assembly in October 1992, and India has consistently and actively supported the CICA. Interaction in the UN and other international fora has been close and mutually supportive. Views of both countries coincide on all major domestic, regional and international issues. Nursultan Nazarbayev again showed the entire world his wisdom and leadership as a great politician, committed to democratic values, having voluntarily relinquished duties as President in March 2019. After the elections on June 9, 2019 Mr. Kassym-Jomart Tokayev was elected as the new President of Kazakhstan. Thus, a peaceful transition of power in Kazakhstan took place, political succession was announced and all priorities and goals of foreign policy of Kazakhstan remain unchanged. One immutable truth is obvious: Kazakhstan managed to overcome the dramatic rift of epochs only thanks to the wise state strategy, strong leadership, the enormous international authority of the First President of the Republic of Kazakhstan – Elbasy and his absolute national support. Kazakhstan is interested in expanding ties with India, given its growing role in world economy and politics. We are witnessing radical reforms underway in India that are aimed at the full-scale transformation of the country’s economy in order to improve the standard of living of citizens, as well as strengthening national unity and regional integration both inside the country and on a continental scale. Kazakhstan welcomes these transformations and wishes to consolidate our efforts to achieve bigger trade turnover, strengthen political and cultural bonds.

Sidhant Sibal:December 1 has significance in your country, if you can elaborate on it.

Yerlan Alimbayev: On December 1, Kazakhstan celebrates the Day of the First President. This date is of great importance in the history of modern Kazakhstan and is also important in terms of bilateral relations between India and Kazakhstan. Elected by the people to the highest post of the country on December 1, 1991, Nursultan Nazarbayev became the First President of the young state. The personality of Nazarbayev is important for us because his whole life is directly connected with creation and development of independent Kazakhstan. Of course, international activities of the First President are essential part of Kazakhstan's foreign policy. Nursultan Nazarbayev played the same large-scale role in the history of Kazakhstan as world-famous reformers such as Mahatma Gandhi in India, Charles de Gaulle in France, Lee Kuan Yew in Singapore, Atatürk in Turkey, Mahathir Mohammad in Malaysia and many others played in the development of their respective countries. As you know, Kazakhstan inherited unbalanced economy after disintegration of the Soviet Union. The First President went on to make decisive market reforms, sometimes unpopular and tough, but only in that way was it possible to ensure the growth of the economy and to create a stable middle class, a pillar of a stable society.

Sidhant Sibal: Nazarbayev, what has been his legacy. He resigned last year but holds the title of Leader of the Nation.

Yerlan Alimbayev: Recognizing the crucial importance of this factor, the First President proclaimed the equality of rights of all the people of Kazakhstan, regardless of ethnic and religious affiliations, as one of the fundamental principles of state policy. Ethnic diversity has become the country’s greatest strength. In this context, Kazakhstan, like India, is a state that unites many languages, religions, cultures and nationalities. Step by step, through the efforts of the First President, Kazakhstan has rebuilt on the ruins of the former Soviet state. During the first stage of modernization, as Nazarbayev described this period, the President worked to effect a system overhaul, restore the economy and form a new political system. He presented his own formula for development - "first-economy, politics-after". Today, this experience is known as "the Nazarbayev model" or the Kazakhstan way. A major successful achievement of the Republic in that period was the transfer and construction of the new capital of the state, which today bears the name of the First President – Nur-Sultan. From the very beginning of independence, the First President attached exceptional importance to the sphere of foreign policy. Given the realities of the modern multipolar world, he established a multi-vector foreign policy. Having closed the world’s largest Semipalatinsk nuclear test site and abandon of the nuclear weapon, Nursultan Nazarbayev carried out a truly great act of history, showing an example of his peace-promoting policy with his actions and his decision to denuclearize Kazakhstan. Due to close international cooperation and partnerships built by his efforts, Kazakhstan has achieved remarkable results. Over the years, many of the first President's ideas and initiatives have been implemented and are being consistently developed.&nbsp;

Kazakhstan has pioneered a global nuclear security initiative, has achieved a number of results in peacemaking policy and conflict resolution around Nagorno-Karabakh, Iran, Ukraine and Syria. The Republic has launched and continues to develop a global interreligious dialogue based on regular Congresses of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions in its capital. Kazakhstan's peace-loving policy contributed to the country's election as the Chairman of the OSCE, SCO, OIC, non-permanent member of the UN Security Council in 2017-2019, and other international organizations. The Eurasian idea of Nursultan Nazarbayev announced back in 1992 nowadays is being implemented as the Eurasian Economic Union. Kazakhstan has become a member of the WTO, and thanks to the implementation of major infrastructure projects, it has become an operator of growing trade flows between the East and West of Eurasia.

Constructive and reliable relations were established with all neighbouring countries. For the first time in history, Kazakhstan gained internationally recognized borders along its entire perimeter. This was a key and decisive achievement, marking a particularly important milestone in the construction of the state. Today, Kazakhstan is a globally recognized, highly respected and open country with great economic, political, social, innovative and intellectual potential.

Kazakhstan's President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev is expected to visit India in early 2021, which will be his first to the country since taking charge in 2019. Speaking exclusively to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Kazakh envoy Yerlan Alimbayev said, "Kazakhstan is interested in expanding ties with India, given its growing role in world economy and politics.

Kazakhstan's President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev is expected to visit India in early 2021, which will be his first to the country since taking charge in 2019. Speaking exclusively to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Kazakh envoy Yerlan Alimbayev said, "Kazakhstan is interested in expanding ties with India, given its growing role in world economy and politics.". He also spoke at length on the significance of First December in his country which is celebrated as "Day of the First President" to pay honour to the Nursultan Nazarbayev, who ruled the country for nearly 3 decades. Envoy Alimbayev said, "First President proclaimed the equality of rights of all the people of Kazakhstan, regardless of ethnic and religious affiliations, as one of the fundamental principles of state policy." Sidhant Sibal: How do you see India Kazakh relations. Both are members of the SCO. Infact, Kazakhstan takes over as the new Chairman of SCO head of govt from India. What can we expect.. Yerlan Alimbayev: Since Nursultan Nazarbayev is the founder of independent Kazakhstan, it is difficult to overestimate his contribution to the establishment and development of bilateral relations between Kazakhstan and India. Relations between Kazakhstan and India have exhibited considerable dynamism and momentum. India was one of the first countries to recognize Kazakhstan as a free, sovereign state. It is particularly noteworthy to mention that India was the very first country Nursultan Nazarbayev visited in February 1992 as the President of independent Kazakhstan. Diplomatic relations were officially established during this historic visit. This decision demonstrated the deep respect and admiration in which President Nazarbayev and the people of Kazakhstan hold India as a country endowed with a glorious past, having a vibrant present and blessed with a bright future. In 2009, by signing the Declaration on Strategic Partnership cooperation between our countries was brought to a higher level. At present we are working on the first State visit of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev as soon as the situation with the pandemic stabilizes in early 2021. Kazakhstan remains a major trading partner of India in Central Asia and the second largest in CIS region. Our bilateral trade turnover has reached 2,2 billion USD over the 9 months of 2020. During the years of independence, Nursultan Nazarbayev was personally involved in the country's most significant investment projects, which to this day are successfully working in Kazakhstan. In particular, several Indian citizens and companies have a significant presence in Kazakhstan. Arcelor-Mittal Temirtau is a major investment project by an Indian non-resident. Several other well-known companies like Infosys, Punj Lloyd Kazakhstan Limited, KEC International Limited, TCS, ONGC Videsh Ltd. etc. have been active in this market in the area of construction of oil and gas, electric transmission lines, IT, etc. In the area of pharmaceuticals, large Indian companies are represented in the market. Sidhant Sibal: What kind of convergence we see on foreign affairs between the 2 countries... Yerlan Alimbayev: In the area of foreign relations, Kazakhstan launched the Conference on Interaction and Confidence Building Measures in Asia (CICA) through the address by President Nazarbayev to the United Nations General Assembly in October 1992, and India has consistently and actively supported the CICA. Interaction in the UN and other international fora has been close and mutually supportive. Views of both countries coincide on all major domestic, regional and international issues. Nursultan Nazarbayev again showed the entire world his wisdom and leadership as a great politician, committed to democratic values, having voluntarily relinquished duties as President in March 2019. After the elections on June 9, 2019 Mr. Kassym-Jomart Tokayev was elected as the new President of Kazakhstan. Thus, a peaceful transition of power in Kazakhstan took place, political succession was announced and all priorities and goals of foreign policy of Kazakhstan remain unchanged. One immutable truth is obvious: Kazakhstan managed to overcome the dramatic rift of epochs only thanks to the wise state strategy, strong leadership, the enormous international authority of the First President of the Republic of Kazakhstan – Elbasy and his absolute national support. Kazakhstan is interested in expanding ties with India, given its growing role in world economy and politics. We are witnessing radical reforms underway in India that are aimed at the full-scale transformation of the country’s economy in order to improve the standard of living of citizens, as well as strengthening national unity and regional integration both inside the country and on a continental scale. Kazakhstan welcomes these transformations and wishes to consolidate our efforts to achieve bigger trade turnover, strengthen political and cultural bonds. Sidhant Sibal:December 1 has significance in your country, if you can elaborate on it. Yerlan Alimbayev: On December 1, Kazakhstan celebrates the Day of the First President. This date is of great importance in the history of modern Kazakhstan and is also important in terms of bilateral relations between India and Kazakhstan. Elected by the people to the highest post of the country on December 1, 1991, Nursultan Nazarbayev became the First President of the young state. The personality of Nazarbayev is important for us because his whole life is directly connected with creation and development of independent Kazakhstan. Of course, international activities of the First President are essential part of Kazakhstan's foreign policy. Nursultan Nazarbayev played the same large-scale role in the history of Kazakhstan as world-famous reformers such as Mahatma Gandhi in India, Charles de Gaulle in France, Lee Kuan Yew in Singapore, Atatürk in Turkey, Mahathir Mohammad in Malaysia and many others played in the development of their respective countries. As you know, Kazakhstan inherited unbalanced economy after disintegration of the Soviet Union. The First President went on to make decisive market reforms, sometimes unpopular and tough, but only in that way was it possible to ensure the growth of the economy and to create a stable middle class, a pillar of a stable society. Sidhant Sibal: Nazarbayev, what has been his legacy. He resigned last year but holds the title of Leader of the Nation. Yerlan Alimbayev: Recognizing the crucial importance of this factor, the First President proclaimed the equality of rights of all the people of Kazakhstan, regardless of ethnic and religious affiliations, as one of the fundamental principles of state policy. Ethnic diversity has become the country’s greatest strength. In this context, Kazakhstan, like India, is a state that unites many languages, religions, cultures and nationalities. Step by step, through the efforts of the First President, Kazakhstan has rebuilt on the ruins of the former Soviet state. During the first stage of modernization, as Nazarbayev described this period, the President worked to effect a system overhaul, restore the economy and form a new political system. He presented his own formula for development - "first-economy, politics-after". Today, this experience is known as "the Nazarbayev model" or the Kazakhstan way. A major successful achievement of the Republic in that period was the transfer and construction of the new capital of the state, which today bears the name of the First President – Nur-Sultan. From the very beginning of independence, the First President attached exceptional importance to the sphere of foreign policy. Given the realities of the modern multipolar world, he established a multi-vector foreign policy. Having closed the world’s largest Semipalatinsk nuclear test site and abandon of the nuclear weapon, Nursultan Nazarbayev carried out a truly great act of history, showing an example of his peace-promoting policy with his actions and his decision to denuclearize Kazakhstan. Due to close international cooperation and partnerships built by his efforts, Kazakhstan has achieved remarkable results. Over the years, many of the first President's ideas and initiatives have been implemented and are being consistently developed. Kazakhstan has pioneered a global nuclear security initiative, has achieved a number of results in peacemaking policy and conflict resolution around Nagorno-Karabakh, Iran, Ukraine and Syria. The Republic has launched and continues to develop a global interreligious dialogue based on regular Congresses of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions in its capital. Kazakhstan's peace-loving policy contributed to the country's election as the Chairman of the OSCE, SCO, OIC, non-permanent member of the UN Security Council in 2017-2019, and other international organizations. The Eurasian idea of Nursultan Nazarbayev announced back in 1992 nowadays is being implemented as the Eurasian Economic Union. Kazakhstan has become a member of the WTO, and thanks to the implementation of major infrastructure projects, it has become an operator of growing trade flows between the East and West of Eurasia. Constructive and reliable relations were established with all neighbouring countries. For the first time in history, Kazakhstan gained internationally recognized borders along its entire perimeter. This was a key and decisive achievement, marking a particularly important milestone in the construction of the state. Today, Kazakhstan is a globally recognized, highly respected and open country with great economic, political, social, innovative and intellectual potential.

Kazakh President to visit India in early 2021

Actor Rajinikanth said that he would reveal the decision on his political foray as soon as possible, after meeting the district secretaries of his unified fan club — Rajini Makkal Mandram.&nbsp;

“In the meeting with district secretaries, they shared their thoughts and I shared mine. They have assured to stand by me in whatever decision I take” he told media outside his Poes garden residence.&nbsp;

The November 30th meeting with his unified fan club is his first publicized in-person event, that has taken place following the Covid-19 pan-India lockdown in late March.&nbsp;

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rajinikanth-tweets-couldve-avoided-mistake-after-court-warned-of-imposing-cost-335479">Rajinikanth tweets 'Could’ve avoided mistake' after court warned of imposing cost</a>

About a month back, Rajini had dismissed a statement (that was rumoured to be his)which was doing the rounds on social media, claiming that he was quitting politics. However, he agreed that some contents of the statement pertaining to his health were true and that he would hold discussions with the functionaries of his unified fan club and inform people of his political stance.&nbsp;

The letter which was doing the rounds and was said to be ‘leaked’ mentioned that, the actor’s doctors had expressed reservations over Rajini getting into active politics, as he had undergone a kidney transplant and owing to the fact that there was no vaccine for Covid-19 yet.&nbsp;

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rajinikanth-to-withdraw-case-against-property-tax-after-court-warns-of-imposing-cost-335167">Rajinikanth to withdraw case against property tax after court warns of imposing cost</a>

There was also high uncertainty expressed over the actor’s course of action even when a vaccine became available, given that there were doubts over how at the age of 70, with existing medical conditions he would respond to the vaccine. All these hinted towards the actor quitting politics to the prevailing scenario and that the Assembly elections in Tamil Nadu were due by Summer 2021.&nbsp;

The text of a letter that was said to be Rajini’s, mentioned that if he were to start a party it would have to be firmed up by December and the announcement would have to come by January 15th. However, apprehension was also raised regarding the possibility of his health deteriorating after his entry into active politics, which would mean meeting people and holding rallies amid the pandemic.&nbsp;

“There is a statement similar to that of mine which is doing the rounds on social media and appearing on media. Everyone knows that it is not my statement. However, some of the details on that statement which refer to my heath condition and the medical advise given to me are true. At the right time I will discuss with the functionaries of Rajini Makkal Mandram and inform the people about my political stance” reads the actor’s tweet in Tamil.&nbsp;

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/not-eyeing-cms-post-want-political-change-says-rajinikanth-285830">Not eyeing CM's post, want political change, says Rajinikanth</a>

In recent months, speculation has only grown about the actor’s political plunge, with posters cropping up in different parts of the state calling for his plunge into politics, as there are hardly 6 months to go for the Assembly elections.&nbsp;

It was with high expectations that Rajinikanth had called for a Press meet in Chennai on March 12th this year, however, the actor only outlined his vision for ‘cleaning up politics’ and refused to commit on his own political foray. “I have never even thought of becoming the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu or sitting in the Assembly and speaking. It is not even in my blood. I want a new wave, new power and new blood to go and seize power in the assembly and Rajini will be a bridge for this” he said.&nbsp;

“We need to tell people, this is not for Rajini, this is for the people of Tamil Nadu. I’m not here to get 15-20percent of the votes, this is my only chance. I am 71 years old and by the next polls in 2026 I will be 76. Once the message reaches more people and the common people want a change, let me see that happen and I will come make my entry” he had said cryptically in March.&nbsp;

It is notable that without having formally entered politics, Rajini has been making statements showing his political tilt and influencing opinions and different points in time. In 1995, he had spoken against the incumbent Jayalalithaa-led AIADMK government, which had swung votes in favour of the DMK in the Assembly polls the following year.&nbsp;

Similarly, in the run-up to the Lok Sabha Polls in 2019, Rajini made statements that expressed support towards several initiatives and decisions of the Modi-Shah-led BJP. On different occasions, Rajini had spoken in favor of demonetization, river-interlinking project, CAA/NRC, Abrogation of Article 370 among others. He had also hailed the Modi-Shah duo as Arujna-Krishna from Mahabharata while stating that people did not know who is Krishna and Arjuna among the duo. "They only know who is Krishna and who is Arjuna" Rajini had said, while a smiling BJP President Amit Shah looked on in 2019.&nbsp;

Actor Rajinikanth said that he would reveal the decision on his political foray as soon as possible, after meeting the district secretaries of his unified fan club — Rajini Makkal Mandram.

Actor Rajinikanth said that he would reveal the decision on his political foray as soon as possible, after meeting the district secretaries of his unified fan club — Rajini Makkal Mandram. “In the meeting with district secretaries, they shared their thoughts and I shared mine. They have assured to stand by me in whatever decision I take” he told media outside his Poes garden residence. The November 30th meeting with his unified fan club is his first publicized in-person event, that has taken place following the Covid-19 pan-India lockdown in late March. Also read| Rajinikanth tweets 'Could’ve avoided mistake' after court warned of imposing cost About a month back, Rajini had dismissed a statement (that was rumoured to be his)which was doing the rounds on social media, claiming that he was quitting politics. However, he agreed that some contents of the statement pertaining to his health were true and that he would hold discussions with the functionaries of his unified fan club and inform people of his political stance. The letter which was doing the rounds and was said to be ‘leaked’ mentioned that, the actor’s doctors had expressed reservations over Rajini getting into active politics, as he had undergone a kidney transplant and owing to the fact that there was no vaccine for Covid-19 yet. Also read| Rajinikanth to withdraw case against property tax after court warns of imposing cost There was also high uncertainty expressed over the actor’s course of action even when a vaccine became available, given that there were doubts over how at the age of 70, with existing medical conditions he would respond to the vaccine. All these hinted towards the actor quitting politics to the prevailing scenario and that the Assembly elections in Tamil Nadu were due by Summer 2021. The text of a letter that was said to be Rajini’s, mentioned that if he were to start a party it would have to be firmed up by December and the announcement would have to come by January 15th. However, apprehension was also raised regarding the possibility of his health deteriorating after his entry into active politics, which would mean meeting people and holding rallies amid the pandemic. “There is a statement similar to that of mine which is doing the rounds on social media and appearing on media. Everyone knows that it is not my statement. However, some of the details on that statement which refer to my heath condition and the medical advise given to me are true. At the right time I will discuss with the functionaries of Rajini Makkal Mandram and inform the people about my political stance” reads the actor’s tweet in Tamil. Also read| Not eyeing CM's post, want political change, says Rajinikanth In recent months, speculation has only grown about the actor’s political plunge, with posters cropping up in different parts of the state calling for his plunge into politics, as there are hardly 6 months to go for the Assembly elections. It was with high expectations that Rajinikanth had called for a Press meet in Chennai on March 12th this year, however, the actor only outlined his vision for ‘cleaning up politics’ and refused to commit on his own political foray. “I have never even thought of becoming the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu or sitting in the Assembly and speaking. It is not even in my blood. I want a new wave, new power and new blood to go and seize power in the assembly and Rajini will be a bridge for this” he said. “We need to tell people, this is not for Rajini, this is for the people of Tamil Nadu. I’m not here to get 15-20percent of the votes, this is my only chance. I am 71 years old and by the next polls in 2026 I will be 76. Once the message reaches more people and the common people want a change, let me see that happen and I will come make my entry” he had said cryptically in March. It is notable that without having formally entered politics, Rajini has been making statements showing his political tilt and influencing opinions and different points in time. In 1995, he had spoken against the incumbent Jayalalithaa-led AIADMK government, which had swung votes in favour of the DMK in the Assembly polls the following year. Similarly, in the run-up to the Lok Sabha Polls in 2019, Rajini made statements that expressed support towards several initiatives and decisions of the Modi-Shah-led BJP. On different occasions, Rajini had spoken in favor of demonetization, river-interlinking project, CAA/NRC, Abrogation of Article 370 among others. He had also hailed the Modi-Shah duo as Arujna-Krishna from Mahabharata while stating that people did not know who is Krishna and Arjuna among the duo. "They only know who is Krishna and who is Arjuna" Rajini had said, while a smiling BJP President Amit Shah looked on in 2019.

Suspense continues: 'Will reveal my decision ASAP', says Rajinikanth on political foray

Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/narendra-modi">Narendra Modi </a>on Monday slammed the opposition over the farmers' protests and underscored that the new farm laws will benefit farmers.&nbsp;

Modi's comments came when thousands of farmers are protesting at the national capital over the recently-passed farm laws and are demanding a withdrawal of these acts.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amid-protests-pm-modi-backs-farm-laws-in-mann-ki-baat-address-346207">Amid protests, PM Modi backs farm laws in Mann Ki Baat address</a>

"The farmers are being misled on these historic agriculture reform laws by the same people who for decades have misled them," referring to the opposition parties in a veiled attack in Varanasi.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-appreciates-scientists-efforts-to-come-out-with-vaccine-solution-to-combat-covid-19-346419">PM Modi appreciates scientists' efforts to come out with vaccine solution to combat COVID-19</a>

"These same people have in the past played tricks with farmers in the name of MSP, loan waiver and fertiliser subsidy." 
&nbsp; 
He also asked that since the Indian farmers' products are famous across the world so should not they be allowed to get a bigger market, higher prices to see their produce. &nbsp;

"We will see and experience benefits of these new laws in the coming days," Modi said.&nbsp;

He also said that the new laws will not force farmers to use the new system. &nbsp;

"Earlier, any sale outside Mandi was considered illegal and small farmers were cheated as they were not able to reach Mandi," the prime minister said.&nbsp;

Farmers now are protected by law against cheating and fraud."&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday slammed the opposition over the farmers' protests and underscored that the new farm laws will benefit farmers. Modi's comments came when thousands of farmers are protesting at the national capital over the recently-passed farm laws and are demanding a withdrawal of these acts.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday slammed the opposition over the farmers' protests and underscored that the new farm laws will benefit farmers. Modi's comments came when thousands of farmers are protesting at the national capital over the recently-passed farm laws and are demanding a withdrawal of these acts. Also read | Amid protests, PM Modi backs farm laws in Mann Ki Baat address "The farmers are being misled on these historic agriculture reform laws by the same people who for decades have misled them," referring to the opposition parties in a veiled attack in Varanasi. Also read | PM Modi appreciates scientists' efforts to come out with vaccine solution to combat COVID-19 "These same people have in the past played tricks with farmers in the name of MSP, loan waiver and fertiliser subsidy." He also asked that since the Indian farmers' products are famous across the world so should not they be allowed to get a bigger market, higher prices to see their produce. "We will see and experience benefits of these new laws in the coming days," Modi said. He also said that the new laws will not force farmers to use the new system. "Earlier, any sale outside Mandi was considered illegal and small farmers were cheated as they were not able to reach Mandi," the prime minister said. Farmers now are protected by law against cheating and fraud."

PM Modi says farmers being 'misled', calls new laws 'historic agriculture reform'

India on ,Monday hits out at Organisation of Islamic Cooperation over it's statement on Jammu and kashmir. 'OIC has no locus standi', says India.

India hits out at Organisation of Islamic Cooperation over J&K's statement

India strongly raised the issue of cross border terrorism from Pakistan and attempts to raise the bilateral issue at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) heads of government meet.

India's vice president Venkaiah Naidu said, "The most important challenge faced by us in the region is terrorism, particularly cross-border terrorism. Terrorism is truly the enemy of humanity. It is a scourge we need to collectively combat."

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-and-imran-khan-to-skip-meeting-of-sco-heads-346423" hreflang="en">PM Modi and Imran khan to skip meeting of SCO heads</a>

Pointing at Pakistan Naidu explained, "We remain concerned about threats emerging from ungoverned spaces and are particularly concerned about States that leverage terrorism as an instrument of state policy. Such an approach is entirely against the spirit and ideals and the Charter of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization."

This is the first time since India became a member of the SCO in 2017, that it hosted such a large meet of SCO leaders. It was expected to take place physically but took place virtually due to the COVID pandemic.

India's Vice President also raise the issue of Pakistan trying to raise bilateral issues at the grouping. He said, "It is unfortunate to note that there have been attempts to deliberately bring bilateral issues into SCO and blatantly violate the well-established principles and norms of SCO Charter safeguarding the sovereignty and territorial integrity of SCO Member States."

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-appreciates-scientists-efforts-to-come-out-with-vaccine-solution-to-combat-covid-19-346419" hreflang="en">PM Modi appreciates scientists' efforts to come out with vaccine solution to combat COVID-19</a>

Pakistani NSA earlier this year, sat in SCO virtual meet with a map of Pakistan which showed incorrect boundaries of India, irking New Delhi. In fact, Russia, which is the host of the grouping this year, also said, bilateral matters should not be raised at the body.

Meanwhile, COVID also remained a key focus of New Delhi, which highlighted how it has "been at the forefront of producing quality medicines and vaccines at low cost."

But Naidu also called for, "much needed reforms to our global institutions, including WHO, and rework our development strategies to face a post-COVID-19 world."

World Health Organisation or WHO has been at found missing when the pandemic broke towards the end of 2019, for which it has been criticised.

India offered to annually host the Special Working Group on Startups and Innovation and also the SCO Startup Forum. On the shared cultural front, India earlier on Monday inaugurated an Exhibition on Buddhist Heritage of SCO Member States in a virtual format, hosted by the National Museum of India.

India strongly raised the issue of cross border terrorism from Pakistan and attempts to raise the bilateral issue at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) heads of government meet.

India strongly raised the issue of cross border terrorism from Pakistan and attempts to raise the bilateral issue at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) heads of government meet. India's vice president Venkaiah Naidu said, "The most important challenge faced by us in the region is terrorism, particularly cross-border terrorism. Terrorism is truly the enemy of humanity. It is a scourge we need to collectively combat." Also read| PM Modi and Imran khan to skip meeting of SCO heads Pointing at Pakistan Naidu explained, "We remain concerned about threats emerging from ungoverned spaces and are particularly concerned about States that leverage terrorism as an instrument of state policy. Such an approach is entirely against the spirit and ideals and the Charter of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization." This is the first time since India became a member of the SCO in 2017, that it hosted such a large meet of SCO leaders. It was expected to take place physically but took place virtually due to the COVID pandemic. India's Vice President also raise the issue of Pakistan trying to raise bilateral issues at the grouping. He said, "It is unfortunate to note that there have been attempts to deliberately bring bilateral issues into SCO and blatantly violate the well-established principles and norms of SCO Charter safeguarding the sovereignty and territorial integrity of SCO Member States." Also read| PM Modi appreciates scientists' efforts to come out with vaccine solution to combat COVID-19 Pakistani NSA earlier this year, sat in SCO virtual meet with a map of Pakistan which showed incorrect boundaries of India, irking New Delhi. In fact, Russia, which is the host of the grouping this year, also said, bilateral matters should not be raised at the body. Meanwhile, COVID also remained a key focus of New Delhi, which highlighted how it has "been at the forefront of producing quality medicines and vaccines at low cost." But Naidu also called for, "much needed reforms to our global institutions, including WHO, and rework our development strategies to face a post-COVID-19 world." World Health Organisation or WHO has been at found missing when the pandemic broke towards the end of 2019, for which it has been criticised. India offered to annually host the Special Working Group on Startups and Innovation and also the SCO Startup Forum. On the shared cultural front, India earlier on Monday inaugurated an Exhibition on Buddhist Heritage of SCO Member States in a virtual format, hosted by the National Museum of India.

Cross border terror from Pakistan, reforms at WHO top focus of India at SCO meet

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi interacted with various vaccine developers like the Gennova Biopharma and Biological E Ltd and Dr. Reddy's laboratories Ltd. This comes after the PM visited three Biotechnology firms.

News Alert: Indian PM Modi holds virtual meet with 3 biotechnology firms

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan are going to skip the forthcoming Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) heads of government meeting on Monday.&nbsp;

India's Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu will chair the 19th meeting of the council of the heads of government of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) member states. The summit is held every year at the level of prime ministers and deals mainly with the trade and economic agenda of the SCO.

PM Modi, Khan and Chinese President Xi Jinping had joined the virtual SCO summit, chaired by Russia earlier this month.&nbsp;

The prime ministers of Russia, China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan will attend the summit of the heads of government of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation while Pakistan will be represented by its parliamentary secretary for foreign affairs, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has said.

SCO has 8 member states and 4 observer states. Pakistan, which is a member of SCO will be represented by its Parliamentary Secretary for Foreign Affairs.

The other three observer states will be represented too. Afghanistan will be represented by its President Ashraf Ghani, Iran by its First Vice President and Mongolia by its Deputy Prime Minister.

A statement from India's Ministry of External Affairs said, "India considers the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) as an important regional organization to promote cooperation in the areas of peace, security, trade, economy and culture. India is committed to widening our cooperation with SCO by playing a proactive, positive and constructive role in the organization."

(With inputs from agencies)

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan are going to skip the forthcoming Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) heads of government meeting on Monday.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan are going to skip the forthcoming Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) heads of government meeting on Monday. India's Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu will chair the 19th meeting of the council of the heads of government of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) member states. The summit is held every year at the level of prime ministers and deals mainly with the trade and economic agenda of the SCO. PM Modi, Khan and Chinese President Xi Jinping had joined the virtual SCO summit, chaired by Russia earlier this month. The prime ministers of Russia, China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan will attend the summit of the heads of government of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation while Pakistan will be represented by its parliamentary secretary for foreign affairs, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has said. SCO has 8 member states and 4 observer states. Pakistan, which is a member of SCO will be represented by its Parliamentary Secretary for Foreign Affairs. The other three observer states will be represented too. Afghanistan will be represented by its President Ashraf Ghani, Iran by its First Vice President and Mongolia by its Deputy Prime Minister. A statement from India's Ministry of External Affairs said, "India considers the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) as an important regional organization to promote cooperation in the areas of peace, security, trade, economy and culture. India is committed to widening our cooperation with SCO by playing a proactive, positive and constructive role in the organization." (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi and Imran khan to skip meeting of SCO heads

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday appreciated the efforts by scientists in Gennova Biopharmaceuticals Ltd, Biological E Ltd and Dr Reddys Laboratories Ltd to come out with a vaccine solution to tackle COVID-19.&nbsp;

During his virtual meetings with 3 teams- Gennova Biopharmaceuticals Ltd, Pune, Biological E Ltd, Hyderabad and Dr Reddys Laboratories Ltd, Hyderabad- that are working on developing and manufacturing coronavirus vaccine, the Prime Minister discussed the potential of various platforms for COVID-19 vaccine development.

According to the Prime Minister's Office (PMO), PM Modi also suggested that the companies should take extra efforts to inform the general public in simple language about the vaccine and related matters such as its efficacy. He also asked the companies to come out with their suggestions and ideas regarding the regulatory processes and related matters.

Matters relating to logistics, transport, cold chain in respect of delivering the vaccines were also discussed at the meetings. PMO said that all the vaccine candidates discussed are at different stages of trials and detailed data and results are expected early next year onwards.

The Prime Minister advised all the departments concerned to engage with the manufacturers and seek to resolve matters so that the efforts by these companies bear fruit in order to serve the needs of the country and the entire world. On Saturday, Prime Minister Modi had visited the Serum Institute of India in Pune as part of efforts to get a first-hand perspective of the preparations, challenges, and roadmap in India's endeavour to vaccinate its citizens against COVID-19.

He had also visited Zydus Biotech Park in Ahmedabad and Bharat Biotech facility at Hyderabad on Saturday as part of his three-city visit to personally review the vaccine development and manufacturing process against COVID-19. India's coronavirus tally breached the 94-lakh mark after 38,772 new infections reported in the last 24 hours, according to the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare's data on Monday.

The overall coronavirus cases reached 94,31,692 including 4,46,952 active cases and 88,47,600 recoveries. With 443 new deaths, the cumulative toll mounted to 1,37,139.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday appreciated the efforts by scientists in Gennova Biopharmaceuticals Ltd, Biological E Ltd and Dr Reddys Laboratories Ltd to come out with a vaccine solution to tackle COVID-19.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday appreciated the efforts by scientists in Gennova Biopharmaceuticals Ltd, Biological E Ltd and Dr Reddys Laboratories Ltd to come out with a vaccine solution to tackle COVID-19. During his virtual meetings with 3 teams- Gennova Biopharmaceuticals Ltd, Pune, Biological E Ltd, Hyderabad and Dr Reddys Laboratories Ltd, Hyderabad- that are working on developing and manufacturing coronavirus vaccine, the Prime Minister discussed the potential of various platforms for COVID-19 vaccine development. According to the Prime Minister's Office (PMO), PM Modi also suggested that the companies should take extra efforts to inform the general public in simple language about the vaccine and related matters such as its efficacy. He also asked the companies to come out with their suggestions and ideas regarding the regulatory processes and related matters. Matters relating to logistics, transport, cold chain in respect of delivering the vaccines were also discussed at the meetings. PMO said that all the vaccine candidates discussed are at different stages of trials and detailed data and results are expected early next year onwards. The Prime Minister advised all the departments concerned to engage with the manufacturers and seek to resolve matters so that the efforts by these companies bear fruit in order to serve the needs of the country and the entire world. On Saturday, Prime Minister Modi had visited the Serum Institute of India in Pune as part of efforts to get a first-hand perspective of the preparations, challenges, and roadmap in India's endeavour to vaccinate its citizens against COVID-19. He had also visited Zydus Biotech Park in Ahmedabad and Bharat Biotech facility at Hyderabad on Saturday as part of his three-city visit to personally review the vaccine development and manufacturing process against COVID-19. India's coronavirus tally breached the 94-lakh mark after 38,772 new infections reported in the last 24 hours, according to the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare's data on Monday. The overall coronavirus cases reached 94,31,692 including 4,46,952 active cases and 88,47,600 recoveries. With 443 new deaths, the cumulative toll mounted to 1,37,139.

PM Modi appreciates scientists' efforts to come out with vaccine solution to combat COVID-19

The number of coronavirus case in India crossed the 94-lakh mark on Monday, while the number of people who have recuperated from the disease crossed 88,47,000, pushing the national recovery rate to 93.81 per cent, according to the Union Health Ministry data.

The number of COVID-19 cases reported in India in a span of 24 hours dropped below 40,000 for the seventh time this month.

The total coronavirus cases mounted to 94,31,691 with 38,772 new infections, while the death toll climbed to 1,37,139 after 443 more fatalities were reported, the data updated at 8 am showed.

The number of people who have recuperated from the disease surged to 88,47,600, pushing the national recovery rate to 93.81 per cent.

The COVID-19 case fatality rate declined further to 1.45 per cent.

The active COVID-19 caseload remained below five lakh for the 20th consecutive day.

There are 4,46,952 active cases in the country which comprise 4.74 per cent of the total caseload, the data stated.

India's COVID-19 tally had crossed the 20-lakh mark on August 7, 30 lakh on August 23 and 40 lakh on September 5.

It went past 50 lakh on September 16, 60 lakh on September 28, 70 lakh on October 11, crossed 80 lakh on October 29, and surpassed 90 lakh on November 20.

According to the ICMR, 14,03,79,976 samples have been tested up to November 29 with 8,76,173 samples being tested on Sunday.

The 443 new fatalities include 85 from Maharashtra, 68 from Delhi, 54 from West Bengal, 27 from Kerala, 26 from Haryana and 24 from Uttar Pradesh.

Total 1,37,139 deaths reported so far in the country include 47,071 from Maharashtra followed by 11,765 from Karnataka, 11,703 from Tamil Nadu, 9,066 from Delhi, 8,376 from West Bengal, 7,742 from Uttar Pradesh, 6,988 from Andhra Pradesh, 4,780 from Punjab, 3,969 from Gujarat and 3,250 from Madhya Pradesh.

The health ministry stressed that more than 70 per cent of the deaths occurred due to comorbidities.

"Our figures are being reconciled with the Indian Council of Medical Research," the ministry said on its website, adding that state-wise distribution of figures is subject to further verification and reconciliation. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

The number of coronavirus case in India crossed the 94-lakh mark on Monday, while the number of people who have recuperated from the disease crossed 88,47,000, pushing the national recovery rate to 93.

The number of coronavirus case in India crossed the 94-lakh mark on Monday, while the number of people who have recuperated from the disease crossed 88,47,000, pushing the national recovery rate to 93.81 per cent, according to the Union Health Ministry data. The number of COVID-19 cases reported in India in a span of 24 hours dropped below 40,000 for the seventh time this month. The total coronavirus cases mounted to 94,31,691 with 38,772 new infections, while the death toll climbed to 1,37,139 after 443 more fatalities were reported, the data updated at 8 am showed. The number of people who have recuperated from the disease surged to 88,47,600, pushing the national recovery rate to 93.81 per cent. The COVID-19 case fatality rate declined further to 1.45 per cent. The active COVID-19 caseload remained below five lakh for the 20th consecutive day. There are 4,46,952 active cases in the country which comprise 4.74 per cent of the total caseload, the data stated. India's COVID-19 tally had crossed the 20-lakh mark on August 7, 30 lakh on August 23 and 40 lakh on September 5. It went past 50 lakh on September 16, 60 lakh on September 28, 70 lakh on October 11, crossed 80 lakh on October 29, and surpassed 90 lakh on November 20. According to the ICMR, 14,03,79,976 samples have been tested up to November 29 with 8,76,173 samples being tested on Sunday. The 443 new fatalities include 85 from Maharashtra, 68 from Delhi, 54 from West Bengal, 27 from Kerala, 26 from Haryana and 24 from Uttar Pradesh. Total 1,37,139 deaths reported so far in the country include 47,071 from Maharashtra followed by 11,765 from Karnataka, 11,703 from Tamil Nadu, 9,066 from Delhi, 8,376 from West Bengal, 7,742 from Uttar Pradesh, 6,988 from Andhra Pradesh, 4,780 from Punjab, 3,969 from Gujarat and 3,250 from Madhya Pradesh. The health ministry stressed that more than 70 per cent of the deaths occurred due to comorbidities. "Our figures are being reconciled with the Indian Council of Medical Research," the ministry said on its website, adding that state-wise distribution of figures is subject to further verification and reconciliation. (With inputs from agencies)

India's COVID-19 tally rises to 94.31 lakh with 38,772 fresh cases

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K.Palaniswami extended the general Covid-19 lockdown till midnight Dec 31, 2020 subject to certain relaxations.

In a statement, Palaniswami said that it was decided to extend the lockdown, with new relaxations till Dec 31st, based on the discussions with the medical and public health experts, District Collectors to prevent the spread of coronavirus.

As per the new restrictions, final year undergraduate and postgraduate courses for all colleges, universities and medical colleges are to commence from December 07, 2020, whereas classes for first-year students will commence from February 01, 2021.&nbsp;

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-covid-19-tally-rises-to-9431-lakh-with-38772-fresh-cases-346362" hreflang="en">India's COVID-19 tally rises to 94.31 lakh with 38,772 fresh cases</a>

Swimming pools for sports training purposes will be allowed to function following standard operating procedures (SOP). Similarly,&nbsp;Marina and other beaches will be open for public from December 14, 2020, depending on the coronavirus spread.

A decision on the&nbsp;permission for outdoor meetings, too, will be taken depending on the spread of the virus in the state.&nbsp;Indoor social, political and religious gatherings are now allowed for the month of December,&nbsp;subject to 50 per cent seating capacity and not exceeding 200 persons. Permission from the District Collectors and from Greater Chennai Police (for Chennai meetings) are necessary.

The&nbsp;exhibition halls&nbsp;will be allowed to function only for business-to-business purposes after following SOP.&nbsp;

In addition to this, the existing system of E-registration for those coming to Tamil Nadu from other states would continue. Those coming from &nbsp;Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Union Territory of Puducherry would be exempted from this registration.&nbsp;

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K.Palaniswami extended the general Covid-19 lockdown till midnight Dec 31, 2020 subject to certain relaxations. In a statement, Palaniswami said that it was decided to extend the lockdown, with new relaxations till Dec 31st, based on the discussions with the medical and public health experts, District Collectors to prevent the spread of coronavirus.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K.Palaniswami extended the general Covid-19 lockdown till midnight Dec 31, 2020 subject to certain relaxations. In a statement, Palaniswami said that it was decided to extend the lockdown, with new relaxations till Dec 31st, based on the discussions with the medical and public health experts, District Collectors to prevent the spread of coronavirus. As per the new restrictions, final year undergraduate and postgraduate courses for all colleges, universities and medical colleges are to commence from December 07, 2020, whereas classes for first-year students will commence from February 01, 2021. Also read| India's COVID-19 tally rises to 94.31 lakh with 38,772 fresh cases Swimming pools for sports training purposes will be allowed to function following standard operating procedures (SOP). Similarly, Marina and other beaches will be open for public from December 14, 2020, depending on the coronavirus spread. A decision on the permission for outdoor meetings, too, will be taken depending on the spread of the virus in the state. Indoor social, political and religious gatherings are now allowed for the month of December, subject to 50 per cent seating capacity and not exceeding 200 persons. Permission from the District Collectors and from Greater Chennai Police (for Chennai meetings) are necessary. The exhibition halls will be allowed to function only for business-to-business purposes after following SOP. In addition to this, the existing system of E-registration for those coming to Tamil Nadu from other states would continue. Those coming from Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Union Territory of Puducherry would be exempted from this registration.

Tamil Nadu: Beaches, colleges, indoor events allowed in new set of relaxations

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) is conducting an inquiry into a reaction to AstraZeneca’s COVID-19 vaccine trial.

A senior official at AstraZeneca told Reuters on Sunday that even after the adverse effects, there is no reason to halt the trials.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/astrazeneca-likely-to-run-additional-global-covid-19-vaccine-trial-345898/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

According to to Reuters, a 40-year-old man had suffered serious “neurological and psychological” symptoms after taking the shot, which is being given to participants in the Serum Institute of India.

"There was no immediate cause of concern at this stage," Samiran Panda, head of Epidemiology and Communicable Diseases at the ICMR, said while talking to Reuters.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/sputnik-v-can-boost-efficacy-of-astrazeneca-vaccine-russian-research-centre-345769" hreflang="en">Sputnik V can boost efficacy of AstraZeneca vaccine: Russian research centre</a>

"It doesn't mean that long term assessment will not happen, it is still happening. I am aware of the activity," Panda said.

AstraZeneca has not put a statement addressing the reaction so far. The volunteer is seeking 50 million rupees ($676,288) in compensation and is also demanding the suspension of testing, and distribution of the vaccine.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/oxfordastrazeneca-coronavirus-vaccine-to-undergo-new-global-trials-345677" hreflang="en">Oxford/AstraZeneca coronavirus vaccine to undergo new global trials</a>

"While the Serum Institute of India is sympathetic with the volunteer's medical condition, there's absolutely no correlation with the vaccine trial," the institute said.

"(The) volunteer was specifically informed by the medical team that the complications he suffered were independent of the vaccine trial he underwent," it added.

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) is conducting an inquiry into a reaction to AstraZeneca’s COVID-19 vaccine trial. A senior official at AstraZeneca told Reuters on Sunday that even after the adverse effects, there is no reason to halt the trials.

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) is conducting an inquiry into a reaction to AstraZeneca’s COVID-19 vaccine trial. A senior official at AstraZeneca told Reuters on Sunday that even after the adverse effects, there is no reason to halt the trials. According to to Reuters, a 40-year-old man had suffered serious “neurological and psychological” symptoms after taking the shot, which is being given to participants in the Serum Institute of India. "There was no immediate cause of concern at this stage," Samiran Panda, head of Epidemiology and Communicable Diseases at the ICMR, said while talking to Reuters. Also read: Sputnik V can boost efficacy of AstraZeneca vaccine: Russian research centre "It doesn't mean that long term assessment will not happen, it is still happening. I am aware of the activity," Panda said. AstraZeneca has not put a statement addressing the reaction so far. The volunteer is seeking 50 million rupees ($676,288) in compensation and is also demanding the suspension of testing, and distribution of the vaccine. Also read: Oxford/AstraZeneca coronavirus vaccine to undergo new global trials "While the Serum Institute of India is sympathetic with the volunteer's medical condition, there's absolutely no correlation with the vaccine trial," the institute said. "(The) volunteer was specifically informed by the medical team that the complications he suffered were independent of the vaccine trial he underwent," it added.

India: AstraZeneca vaccine causes adverse reaction in volunteer, inquiry underway

With Kashmir being once again mentioned at the Organization of Islamic Conference (OIC) resolution, India has called out on the Islamic Grouping for being used by Pakistan, terming it "regrettable."

The Ministry of External Affairs in a statement said, "It is regrettable that OIC continues to allow itself to be used by a certain country, which has an abominable record on religious tolerance, radicalism and persecution of minorities, to indulge in anti-India propaganda."

The resolution after the 47th foreign ministers' meeting in Niger's capital Niamey had made a mention on Kashmir. This year's statement by India stands out since for the first time New Delhi has pointed out Pakistan's infructuous role at OIC.

MEA said that (we) "strongly and categorically reject the factually incorrect, gratuitous and unwarranted references to India" in the resolution, reminding, "OIC has no locus standi in matters strictly internal to India, including that of Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, which is an integral and inalienable part of India."

"We strongly advise the OIC to refrain from making such references in future," MEA added.

India has strongly reacted every time OIC has made reference to Kashmir, and MEA's statements after the recent OIC FMs meet in Abu Dhabi (2019), Dhaka (2018), Abidjan (2017), Tashkent (2016) reminded the grouping not to make comments on matters internal to the country.

While this year's OIC resolution did mention Kashmir, which happens every year, it wasn't something high on the agenda with no public discussion on it at the meet in Niger. Pakistan has been demanding a special meet of OIC FMs on Kashmir since India in 2019 removed the special status for the erstwhile status of Jammu and Kashmir, but failed to garner support. In fact, at the Niamey meet last week, no OIC contact group on Kashmir met.

With Kashmir being once again mentioned at the Organization of Islamic Conference (OIC) resolution, India has called out on the Islamic Grouping for being used by Pakistan, terming it "regrettable.

With Kashmir being once again mentioned at the Organization of Islamic Conference (OIC) resolution, India has called out on the Islamic Grouping for being used by Pakistan, terming it "regrettable." The Ministry of External Affairs in a statement said, "It is regrettable that OIC continues to allow itself to be used by a certain country, which has an abominable record on religious tolerance, radicalism and persecution of minorities, to indulge in anti-India propaganda." The resolution after the 47th foreign ministers' meeting in Niger's capital Niamey had made a mention on Kashmir. This year's statement by India stands out since for the first time New Delhi has pointed out Pakistan's infructuous role at OIC. MEA said that (we) "strongly and categorically reject the factually incorrect, gratuitous and unwarranted references to India" in the resolution, reminding, "OIC has no locus standi in matters strictly internal to India, including that of Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, which is an integral and inalienable part of India." "We strongly advise the OIC to refrain from making such references in future," MEA added. India has strongly reacted every time OIC has made reference to Kashmir, and MEA's statements after the recent OIC FMs meet in Abu Dhabi (2019), Dhaka (2018), Abidjan (2017), Tashkent (2016) reminded the grouping not to make comments on matters internal to the country. While this year's OIC resolution did mention Kashmir, which happens every year, it wasn't something high on the agenda with no public discussion on it at the meet in Niger. Pakistan has been demanding a special meet of OIC FMs on Kashmir since India in 2019 removed the special status for the erstwhile status of Jammu and Kashmir, but failed to garner support. In fact, at the Niamey meet last week, no OIC contact group on Kashmir met.

'Regrettable' that OIC continues to be used by Pakistan: India

An official of the CRPF's Specialised CoBRA unit has been killed and seven other personnel injured in an IED blast triggered by Naxals in Chhattisgarh's Sukma district, a police official said on Sunday.

The Improvised Explosive Device (IED) went off around 8.30 pm on Saturday in a forest near Aravraj Metta hills when a team of 206th battalion of the CoBRA (Commando Battalion for Resolute Action) and police was out on an anti-Naxal operation, he said.

No exchange of fire took place at the spot, which falls under the Chintagufa police station limits and is over 450 km from the state capital Raipur, the official said.

Eight commandos of the CRPF's elite unit were injured and later airlifted to a hospital in Raipur where Assistant Commandant Nitin P Bhalerao died during treatment, Inspector General of Police (Bastar range) Sundarraj P said.

The deceased, belonging to CoBRA's 206th battalion, was a resident of Maharashtra's Nashik district, he said.

The seven other injured personnel were undergoing treatment at a private hospital in Raipur, he said.

"Initially, we had information that around five personnel suffered injuries, but later three more were found injured," the official said.&nbsp;

An official of the CRPF's Specialised CoBRA unit has been killed and seven other personnel injured in an IED blast triggered by Naxals in Chhattisgarh's Sukma district, a police official said on Sunday.

An official of the CRPF's Specialised CoBRA unit has been killed and seven other personnel injured in an IED blast triggered by Naxals in Chhattisgarh's Sukma district, a police official said on Sunday. The Improvised Explosive Device (IED) went off around 8.30 pm on Saturday in a forest near Aravraj Metta hills when a team of 206th battalion of the CoBRA (Commando Battalion for Resolute Action) and police was out on an anti-Naxal operation, he said. No exchange of fire took place at the spot, which falls under the Chintagufa police station limits and is over 450 km from the state capital Raipur, the official said. Eight commandos of the CRPF's elite unit were injured and later airlifted to a hospital in Raipur where Assistant Commandant Nitin P Bhalerao died during treatment, Inspector General of Police (Bastar range) Sundarraj P said. The deceased, belonging to CoBRA's 206th battalion, was a resident of Maharashtra's Nashik district, he said. The seven other injured personnel were undergoing treatment at a private hospital in Raipur, he said. "Initially, we had information that around five personnel suffered injuries, but later three more were found injured," the official said.

CRPF commando killed, seven injured in IED blast in Chhattisgarh

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