Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday concluded his visit to Zydus Biotech Park in Ahmedabad after reviewing the development of COVID-19 vaccine candidate ZyCOV-D. This visit was the first of his three-city tour to personally review the vaccine development and manufacturing process in the country. Prime Minister Modi will now fly to Hyderabad to visit the Bharat Biotech facility.

During his visit to the Biotech Park in Ahmedabad, PM Modi interacted with the scientists at the Biotech Park and also greeted a crowd which gathered outside the plant.

The prime minister is now scheduled to visit vaccine maker Bharat Biotech`s facility next. Bharat Biotech`s Covaxin is undergoing phase-3 trials.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-to-visit-vaccine-making-units-in-ahmedabad-hyderabad-and-pune-346004">PM Modi to visit vaccine making units in Ahmedabad, Hyderabad and Pune</a>

Biotech has partnered with the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) for a country-made COVID-19 vaccine using the virus strain isolated by ICMR`s National Institute of Virology (NIV) based in Pune.

Post Bharat Biotech facility visit, PM Modi will head towards the Serum Institute of India (SII) in Pune. SII has partnered with global pharma giant AstraZeneca and Oxford University for the vaccine.

The SII is the largest producer of vaccines in the world by volume.

"As India enters a decisive phase of the fight against COVID-19, PM Narendra Modi`s visit to these facilities and discussions with the scientists will help him get a first-hand perspective of the preparations, challenges and roadmap in India`s endeavour to vaccinate its citizens," the Prime Minister`s Office had said on Friday.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday concluded his visit to Zydus Biotech Park in Ahmedabad after reviewing the development of COVID-19 vaccine candidate ZyCOV-D.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday concluded his visit to Zydus Biotech Park in Ahmedabad after reviewing the development of COVID-19 vaccine candidate ZyCOV-D. This visit was the first of his three-city tour to personally review the vaccine development and manufacturing process in the country. Prime Minister Modi will now fly to Hyderabad to visit the Bharat Biotech facility. During his visit to the Biotech Park in Ahmedabad, PM Modi interacted with the scientists at the Biotech Park and also greeted a crowd which gathered outside the plant. The prime minister is now scheduled to visit vaccine maker Bharat Biotech`s facility next. Bharat Biotech`s Covaxin is undergoing phase-3 trials. Also read| PM Modi to visit vaccine making units in Ahmedabad, Hyderabad and Pune Biotech has partnered with the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) for a country-made COVID-19 vaccine using the virus strain isolated by ICMR`s National Institute of Virology (NIV) based in Pune. Post Bharat Biotech facility visit, PM Modi will head towards the Serum Institute of India (SII) in Pune. SII has partnered with global pharma giant AstraZeneca and Oxford University for the vaccine. The SII is the largest producer of vaccines in the world by volume. "As India enters a decisive phase of the fight against COVID-19, PM Narendra Modi`s visit to these facilities and discussions with the scientists will help him get a first-hand perspective of the preparations, challenges and roadmap in India`s endeavour to vaccinate its citizens," the Prime Minister`s Office had said on Friday.

PM Modi concludes Zydus Biotech Park visit, next stop Bharat Biotech facility in Hyderabad

Thousands of farmers from neighbouring states blocked major roads into the Indian capital on Saturday, in protest against recent agricultural deregulation.

On Saturday, tensions rose again in the protests over laws that farmers fear could rob them of minimum guaranteed prices for their produce -- a day after clashes ended with an agreement that the farmers could demonstrate in the capital. In response, India deployed hundreds of police and paramilitary forces at a New Delhi border.

Farmers appeared ready for a long sit-in and refused to relocate to a designated protest site, raising fears of fresh clashes between security forces and protesters.

Both security forces and farmers installed barricades to prevent a repeat of Friday's clashes.

Those gathered at the Tikri border continued to hold ground as well. A decision on whether they would head to the designated protest site is expected soon.

On Friday, hundreds of farmers entered the national capital to hold a peaceful protest at the Sant Nirankari Ground after facing teargas and water cannons and clashing with security personnel while thousands remained at border points, undecided whether to go to the demonstration site identified by police.

The day witnessed police using teargas shells, water cannons and multi-layer barriers to block the protesters and the farmers pelting stones and breaking barricades in some places in their determination to push through as part of their 'Delhi Chalo' march against the Centre's new farm laws.

Thousands of farmers from neighbouring states blocked major roads into the Indian capital on Saturday, in protest against recent agricultural deregulation. On Saturday, tensions rose again in the protests over laws that farmers fear could rob them of minimum guaranteed prices for their produce -- a day after clashes ended with an agreement that the farmers could demonstrate in the capital.

Thousands of farmers from neighbouring states blocked major roads into the Indian capital on Saturday, in protest against recent agricultural deregulation. On Saturday, tensions rose again in the protests over laws that farmers fear could rob them of minimum guaranteed prices for their produce -- a day after clashes ended with an agreement that the farmers could demonstrate in the capital. In response, India deployed hundreds of police and paramilitary forces at a New Delhi border. Farmers appeared ready for a long sit-in and refused to relocate to a designated protest site, raising fears of fresh clashes between security forces and protesters. Both security forces and farmers installed barricades to prevent a repeat of Friday's clashes. Those gathered at the Tikri border continued to hold ground as well. A decision on whether they would head to the designated protest site is expected soon. On Friday, hundreds of farmers entered the national capital to hold a peaceful protest at the Sant Nirankari Ground after facing teargas and water cannons and clashing with security personnel while thousands remained at border points, undecided whether to go to the demonstration site identified by police. The day witnessed police using teargas shells, water cannons and multi-layer barriers to block the protesters and the farmers pelting stones and breaking barricades in some places in their determination to push through as part of their 'Delhi Chalo' march against the Centre's new farm laws.

Police, protesting farmers face-off at New Delhi border

At least five coronavirus patients were killed in a fire that erupted at the ICU of a Covid-19 hospital in the western Indian city of Rajkot early on Friday.&nbsp;

Gujarat Deputy Chief Minister Nitin Patel said five patients and have lost their lives, while 26 others who were undergoing treatment were rescued and shifted to other hospitals.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-vaccine-tracker-pm-modi-to-visit-serum-institute-of-india-on-november-28-345653">Coronavirus vaccine tracker: PM Modi to visit Serum Institute of India on November 28</a>

He added that the fire broke out midnight at around 12:30 am in the ICU section on the first floor of the four-storey Uday Shivanand Hospital, where about 31 people were hospitalised.&nbsp;

"...it was brought under control within half an hour by the fire brigade. While three coronavirus patients died on the spot, two others succumbed to the injuries while they were being shifted to another hospital," he told reporters as quoted by news agency PTI.&nbsp;

"Nobody else was injured in the incident. Twenty-six other patients, including those who were undergoing treatment on the upper floors, were shifted to other hospitals."&nbsp;

Rajkot Police Commissioner Manoj Agarwal also confirmed the casualties and said that the blazes were brought under control before it could spread to other floors.&nbsp;

Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani ordered a probe into the accident and announced a compensation of Rs 4 lakh (USD 5,423.54) to the kin of those who lost their lives.&nbsp;

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CM Shri <a href="https://twitter.com/vijayrupanibjp?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@vijayrupanibjp</a> has expressed grief over the incident of fire at Shivanand COVID Hospital in Rajkot. CM has ordered a probe into the incident and announced an ex-gratia of Rs.4 lakh each to the family of deceased.
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The deputy CM added that preliminary probe suggested a short circuit in one of the ventilators. &nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed his "pain" for the ones who lost their lives in the fire and said the administration is ensuring all possible assistance to&nbsp;the ones affected.&nbsp;

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Extremely pained by the loss of lives due to a hospital fire in Rajkot. My thoughts are with those who lost their loved ones in this unfortunate tragedy. Praying for a quick recovery of the injured. The administration is ensuring all possible assistance to those affected: PM
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/1332183052773015553?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 27, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"Extremely pained by the loss of lives due to a hospital fire in Rajkot. My thoughts are with those who lost their loved ones in this unfortunate tragedy. Praying for a quick recovery of the injured. The administration is ensuring all possible assistance to those affected," the Prime Minister Office said in a tweet. &nbsp;

This is the second major fire accident in a hospital in the state of Gujarat recently.&nbsp;

Earlier, eight coronavirus patients were killed after a fire broke out at a private hospital in Ahmedabad.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

At least five coronavirus patients were killed in a fire that erupted at the ICU of a Covid-19 hospital in the western Indian city of Rajkot early on Friday. Gujarat Deputy Chief Minister Nitin Patel said five patients and have lost their lives, while 26 others who were undergoing treatment were rescued and shifted to other hospitals.

At least five coronavirus patients were killed in a fire that erupted at the ICU of a Covid-19 hospital in the western Indian city of Rajkot early on Friday. Gujarat Deputy Chief Minister Nitin Patel said five patients and have lost their lives, while 26 others who were undergoing treatment were rescued and shifted to other hospitals. Also read | Coronavirus vaccine tracker: PM Modi to visit Serum Institute of India on November 28 He added that the fire broke out midnight at around 12:30 am in the ICU section on the first floor of the four-storey Uday Shivanand Hospital, where about 31 people were hospitalised. "...it was brought under control within half an hour by the fire brigade. While three coronavirus patients died on the spot, two others succumbed to the injuries while they were being shifted to another hospital," he told reporters as quoted by news agency PTI. "Nobody else was injured in the incident. Twenty-six other patients, including those who were undergoing treatment on the upper floors, were shifted to other hospitals." Rajkot Police Commissioner Manoj Agarwal also confirmed the casualties and said that the blazes were brought under control before it could spread to other floors. Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani ordered a probe into the accident and announced a compensation of Rs 4 lakh (USD 5,423.54) to the kin of those who lost their lives. CM Shri @vijayrupanibjp has expressed grief over the incident of fire at Shivanand COVID Hospital in Rajkot. CM has ordered a probe into the incident and announced an ex-gratia of Rs.4 lakh each to the family of deceased. — CMO Gujarat (@CMOGuj) November 27, 2020 × The deputy CM added that preliminary probe suggested a short circuit in one of the ventilators. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed his "pain" for the ones who lost their lives in the fire and said the administration is ensuring all possible assistance to the ones affected. Extremely pained by the loss of lives due to a hospital fire in Rajkot. My thoughts are with those who lost their loved ones in this unfortunate tragedy. Praying for a quick recovery of the injured. The administration is ensuring all possible assistance to those affected: PM — PMO India (@PMOIndia) November 27, 2020 × "Extremely pained by the loss of lives due to a hospital fire in Rajkot. My thoughts are with those who lost their loved ones in this unfortunate tragedy. Praying for a quick recovery of the injured. The administration is ensuring all possible assistance to those affected," the Prime Minister Office said in a tweet. This is the second major fire accident in a hospital in the state of Gujarat recently. Earlier, eight coronavirus patients were killed after a fire broke out at a private hospital in Ahmedabad.

At least five Covid-19 patients killed in Rajkot hospital fire; PM Modi expresses anguish

India is all set to beef up its "eye in the Indian Ocean" with the up-gradation of the Information Management and Analysis Centre or IMAC. The center, soon to become National Maritime Domain Awareness (NMDA) will see all major agencies --civilians as well as defense being on board.

India is all set to beef up its "eye in the Indian Ocean" with the up-gradation of the Information Management and Analysis Centre or IMAC. The center, soon to become National Maritime Domain Awareness (NMDA) will see all major agencies --civilians as well as defense being on board. IMAC, based out of Delhi's suburb Gurugram, gets real-time data on movement in the Indian ocean region being fed information from several places--from coastal radar to white shipping agreement India has several countries to coastal surveillance systems and several other ways. It is interesting to know, IMAC was set up in the aftermath of 26/11 as deterrence of any future act of terror through the maritime route. It has been around 6 years since it has been functioning. Under the NMDA, the fisheries department to local policing authorities will get information on development or movements across the coast. This will make sure that any risk, especially transnational can be prevented. The idea was to upgrade it was proposed by the Indian Navy, with the CCS of Cabinet Committee on Security expected to take a call soon. Meanwhile, IMAC which also gives information to IFC-IOR or Information fusion Centre--Indian Ocean Region will see new foreign liaison officers taking up the post, taking the number to around 10-12 . The arrival was delayed due to the COVID pandemic. At present, France, Japan, and the USA have full-time liaison officers at the IFC-IOR, that shares a campus with IMAC. The body was inaugurated in 2018, with a focus on India and like-minded countries sharing real-time developments in the maritime domain. It has been also recognized by UN's International Maritime Organization. In fact, it has 21 countries as partners, the majority from the Indian Ocean region, and is working with 22 multi-national agencies. In 2019, it conducted a coastal security workshop for BIMSTEC countries. During the MT New Diamond fire incident off the coast of Sri Lanka, IFC-IOR played a key role in the early mobilization of resources that resulting in a quick reaction.

Set up after 26/11, India to upgrade its 'eye in Indian Ocean' top maritime body

A steady increase has been seen in Chinese research and fishing vessel in the Indian Ocean region, something that can be a cause of concern given how they have been involved in&nbsp;illegal, unreported and unregulated(IUU) fishing and data collecting.

Deployment of the Chinese research vessel has been observed in the ninety-degree east ridge and southwest Indian ridge. In the last few weeks, three&nbsp;Chinese research vessels have been seen in the region.

When it comes to Chinese fishing vessels in the high seas, around 300 to 450 have been seen in the last four years. Largely, fishing activity has been a seasonal behavior as they withdraw from the Arabian sea prior to the onset of monsoon and return in September to October period.&nbsp;

The IUU, involving China's distant water fishing (DWF) has been depleting fishing resources from areas near North &amp; South Korean and Japanese waters to as far off as Latin America and West Asia.&nbsp;

Most of the areas Chinese vessels are fishing in the Indian ocean are international water, outside of the exclusive economic zone of any country, but since it is unregulated, it impacts the ecosystem in surrounding waters as well. Distant water fishing is heavily subsidized by Beijing.

The two-way vessel traffic between Pakistan and China via the Indian Ocean has also been significant&nbsp;even as both countries grow engagement.&nbsp;The number of vessels going from China to Pakistan stands at 100 vessels per year, while the number of vessels coming from Pakistan to China stands at 50 per year.

Earlier this year, a Karachi-bound ship with Chinese crew was detained at Gujarat's Kandla port and after the inspection was found to carry an autoclave, used in the ballistic missile.

The development raised eyebrows in Delhi, and was quick to convey its concerns on the issue since the item was on India's dual-use export list.

A steady increase has been seen in Chinese research and fishing vessel in the Indian Ocean region, something that can be a cause of concern given how they have been involved in illegal, unreported and unregulated(IUU) fishing and data collecting.

A steady increase has been seen in Chinese research and fishing vessel in the Indian Ocean region, something that can be a cause of concern given how they have been involved in illegal, unreported and unregulated(IUU) fishing and data collecting. Deployment of the Chinese research vessel has been observed in the ninety-degree east ridge and southwest Indian ridge. In the last few weeks, three Chinese research vessels have been seen in the region. When it comes to Chinese fishing vessels in the high seas, around 300 to 450 have been seen in the last four years. Largely, fishing activity has been a seasonal behavior as they withdraw from the Arabian sea prior to the onset of monsoon and return in September to October period. The IUU, involving China's distant water fishing (DWF) has been depleting fishing resources from areas near North & South Korean and Japanese waters to as far off as Latin America and West Asia. Most of the areas Chinese vessels are fishing in the Indian ocean are international water, outside of the exclusive economic zone of any country, but since it is unregulated, it impacts the ecosystem in surrounding waters as well. Distant water fishing is heavily subsidized by Beijing. The two-way vessel traffic between Pakistan and China via the Indian Ocean has also been significant even as both countries grow engagement. The number of vessels going from China to Pakistan stands at 100 vessels per year, while the number of vessels coming from Pakistan to China stands at 50 per year. Earlier this year, a Karachi-bound ship with Chinese crew was detained at Gujarat's Kandla port and after the inspection was found to carry an autoclave, used in the ballistic missile. The development raised eyebrows in Delhi, and was quick to convey its concerns on the issue since the item was on India's dual-use export list.

Increase in Chinese research, fishing vessels in Indian Ocean; 100 ships traveling from China to Pak per year

Mission to innoculate every human on this planet cannot be complete without India, the world's second-most populous nation. But this is not the only reason why India is important. More than 100 million doses of Sputnik V vaccine will be made in India. Russia's direct investment fund made the announcement today.

Developers of the Russian vaccine have tied up with an Indian drugmaker &nbsp;hetero to make the jab

The Sputnik V is just one of the many vaccines that will be produced in India. The vaccine is undergoing trials in India already. It was tested on 100 people in the first phase. The vaccine is now in its final phase of the trial in which it will be tested on thousands of people.

Data from this trial will be shared with the Indian regulators. If the vaccine works and is safe India will approve Sputnik V.

That would also mean, green lighting the large scale manufacturing in India.

It's not just the Russians who are betting on India's capabilities.

The makers of the Oxford vaccine have a similar arrangement with the Serum Institute of India, the largest vaccine maker in the world.

If the jab gets the go-ahead. SII Wants to churn out 10 million doses every month.

It has an agreement to manufacture one billion doses of the Oxford vaccine.

Reportedly SII plans to reserve half of the stock for India.

The other half will be supplied to low-income nations through GAVI, a global vaccine alliance.

On Saturday, November 28 India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit three cities for a vaccine tour. He will visit the Zydus Biotech Park in Ahmedabad.

The company is making its own vaccine and expects to introduce it in March next year.

Then, prime minister Modi will be in Hyderabad to visit the facilities of Bharat Biotech, which is making Covaxin.

The prime minister's last stop will be the Pune-based Serum Institute of India.

India makes 60 percent of the world's vaccines. It is home to six major manufacturers. 30 vaccine candidates are being developed in India alone. Five are in clinical trials. India has around 27 thousand cold chain stores. From there vaccines can be supplied to eight million locations.

Of course, India needs more and better facilities to develop, store and distribute the vaccines. But these numbers should tell you why India has a headstart

When it comes to the vaccines, it's the same headstart that the world's leading vaccine makers are hoping to leverage to end this pandemic. 
&nbsp;

Mission to innoculate every human on this planet cannot be complete without India, the world's second-most populous nation. But this is not the only reason why India is important.

Mission to innoculate every human on this planet cannot be complete without India, the world's second-most populous nation. But this is not the only reason why India is important. More than 100 million doses of Sputnik V vaccine will be made in India. Russia's direct investment fund made the announcement today. Developers of the Russian vaccine have tied up with an Indian drugmaker hetero to make the jab The Sputnik V is just one of the many vaccines that will be produced in India. The vaccine is undergoing trials in India already. It was tested on 100 people in the first phase. The vaccine is now in its final phase of the trial in which it will be tested on thousands of people. Data from this trial will be shared with the Indian regulators. If the vaccine works and is safe India will approve Sputnik V. That would also mean, green lighting the large scale manufacturing in India. It's not just the Russians who are betting on India's capabilities. The makers of the Oxford vaccine have a similar arrangement with the Serum Institute of India, the largest vaccine maker in the world. If the jab gets the go-ahead. SII Wants to churn out 10 million doses every month. It has an agreement to manufacture one billion doses of the Oxford vaccine. Reportedly SII plans to reserve half of the stock for India. The other half will be supplied to low-income nations through GAVI, a global vaccine alliance. On Saturday, November 28 India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit three cities for a vaccine tour. He will visit the Zydus Biotech Park in Ahmedabad. The company is making its own vaccine and expects to introduce it in March next year. Then, prime minister Modi will be in Hyderabad to visit the facilities of Bharat Biotech, which is making Covaxin. The prime minister's last stop will be the Pune-based Serum Institute of India. India makes 60 percent of the world's vaccines. It is home to six major manufacturers. 30 vaccine candidates are being developed in India alone. Five are in clinical trials. India has around 27 thousand cold chain stores. From there vaccines can be supplied to eight million locations. Of course, India needs more and better facilities to develop, store and distribute the vaccines. But these numbers should tell you why India has a headstart When it comes to the vaccines, it's the same headstart that the world's leading vaccine makers are hoping to leverage to end this pandemic.

India holds key to global fight against coronavirus pandemic

Top doctors have warned elite runners are taking a major health risk by competing in Sunday's New Delhi half-marathon in the midst of a major coronavirus outbreak and soaring air pollution.

Women's marathon world record-holder Brigid Kosgei from Kenya and Ethiopia's two-time men's winner Andamlak Belihu are among the 49 elite athletes running the 21-kilometre (13.1 miles) race, while thousands of amateurs are taking part virtually.

Organisers say the "highest level of safety standards, with bio-secure zones", have been laid on for the race starting at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium.

But with New Delhi recording more than 500,000 virus cases, and air quality in the world's most polluted capital hovering between 'unhealthy' and 'hazardous', health experts said the athletes should think twice.

"It will be suicidal for runners to run the race this time. We have such high levels of pollution, we have the risk of coronavirus," Arvind Kumar, founder trustee of the Lung Care Foundation, told AFP.

"With the presence of this twin threat if people are still running despite knowing everything, well, I have no words to express my anguish."

"Whether you are an international elite runner or you are a small boy from a village, the damaging potential of a damaging agent remains the same," said the doctor.

Toxic mix

Randeep Guleria, director of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), the country's top research body, told AFP that "in an ideal situation" the race should not be run.

"Because of high levels of air pollution, exercising outside in this weather sometimes can lead to aggravation of underlying lung problems," he said.

"Even if you are an elite runner the air pollution would still affect your lung."

Normally thousands of amateurs would also take part, but because of the coronavirus they have been told to run their chosen route between Wednesday and Sunday and chart their time on an app.

Delhi has been hit by a winter pollution crisis each year for the past decade when crop-stubble burning from nearby states, cold temperatures and car and industrial pollution produce a toxic mix.

This year, the Indian capital is also a major concern in the battle against the coronavirus. India is the world's second worst-hit country behind the United States, with about 9.3 million cases.

The city is considering imposing a night-time curfew because of the rising number of cases, according to media reports.

Kosgei, who is visiting India for the first time, acknowledged her concerns about travelling for the race.

"We have definitely been affected by Covid-19. I had to convince my parents and family back home to allow me to visit Delhi for the half-marathon," she said.

"The virus has affected most of the sporting events. But it is important for us to take care of ourselves." 
As in other countries, nearly all sport in India has been cancelled.

After repeated delays, the Indian Premier League cricket went ahead in the United Arab Emirates and the Indian Super League football is being held in a bio-secure "bubble" in Goa.

Top doctors have warned elite runners are taking a major health risk by competing in Sunday's New Delhi half-marathon in the midst of a major coronavirus outbreak and soaring air pollution.

Top doctors have warned elite runners are taking a major health risk by competing in Sunday's New Delhi half-marathon in the midst of a major coronavirus outbreak and soaring air pollution. Women's marathon world record-holder Brigid Kosgei from Kenya and Ethiopia's two-time men's winner Andamlak Belihu are among the 49 elite athletes running the 21-kilometre (13.1 miles) race, while thousands of amateurs are taking part virtually. Organisers say the "highest level of safety standards, with bio-secure zones", have been laid on for the race starting at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium. But with New Delhi recording more than 500,000 virus cases, and air quality in the world's most polluted capital hovering between 'unhealthy' and 'hazardous', health experts said the athletes should think twice. "It will be suicidal for runners to run the race this time. We have such high levels of pollution, we have the risk of coronavirus," Arvind Kumar, founder trustee of the Lung Care Foundation, told AFP. "With the presence of this twin threat if people are still running despite knowing everything, well, I have no words to express my anguish." "Whether you are an international elite runner or you are a small boy from a village, the damaging potential of a damaging agent remains the same," said the doctor. Toxic mix Randeep Guleria, director of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), the country's top research body, told AFP that "in an ideal situation" the race should not be run. "Because of high levels of air pollution, exercising outside in this weather sometimes can lead to aggravation of underlying lung problems," he said. "Even if you are an elite runner the air pollution would still affect your lung." Normally thousands of amateurs would also take part, but because of the coronavirus they have been told to run their chosen route between Wednesday and Sunday and chart their time on an app. Delhi has been hit by a winter pollution crisis each year for the past decade when crop-stubble burning from nearby states, cold temperatures and car and industrial pollution produce a toxic mix. This year, the Indian capital is also a major concern in the battle against the coronavirus. India is the world's second worst-hit country behind the United States, with about 9.3 million cases. The city is considering imposing a night-time curfew because of the rising number of cases, according to media reports. Kosgei, who is visiting India for the first time, acknowledged her concerns about travelling for the race. "We have definitely been affected by Covid-19. I had to convince my parents and family back home to allow me to visit Delhi for the half-marathon," she said. "The virus has affected most of the sporting events. But it is important for us to take care of ourselves." As in other countries, nearly all sport in India has been cancelled. After repeated delays, the Indian Premier League cricket went ahead in the United Arab Emirates and the Indian Super League football is being held in a bio-secure "bubble" in Goa.

‘Suicidal for runners’: Doctors warn against Delhi Half Marathon

An ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh each will be given to the next of kin of the deceased and Rs 50,000 each to those injured in the wake of cyclone Nivar and heavy rainfall in Tamil Nadu, the Prime Minister's Office said on Friday after Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Chief Minister K Palaniswami.

Also see|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/cyclonic-storm-nivar-clobbers-south-india-power-supply-disrupted-in-several-cities-345300">Cyclonic storm Nivar clobbers south India; power supply disrupted in several cities</a>

The PMO said the monetary assistance to the next of kin of the deceased and to the injured will be provided from the Prime Minister's National Relief Fund (PMNRF) and central teams are being sent to the state to assist in the rescue and relief work.

At least three people were killed in Tamil Nadu, over 1,000 trees uprooted and some low-lying areas marooned due to water-logging following heavy rains on Thursday as severe cyclonic storm Nivar made landfall near Puducherry.

In the state, about 2.30 lakh people have been accommodated in relief camps following the cyclone, Chief Minister Palaniswami had said.

"PM @narendramodi spoke to Tamil Nadu CM Thiru @EPSTamilNadu and discussed the situation in the wake of the cyclone and heavy rainfall in parts of the state. Central teams are being sent to Tamil Nadu to assist in rescue and relief work," the PMO tweeted.

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PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> spoke to Tamil Nadu CM Thiru <a href="https://twitter.com/EPSTamilNadu?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EPSTamilNadu</a> and discussed the situation in the wake of the cyclone and heavy rainfall in parts of the state. Central teams are being sent to Tamil Nadu to assist in rescue and relief work. <a href="https://twitter.com/CMOTamilNadu?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CMOTamilNadu</a>
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/1332352888820162560?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 27, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"PM @narendramodi expressed condolence on the loss of lives and prayed for a quick recovery of the injured," it said.

An ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh each would be given to the next of kin of the deceased and Rs 50,000 each to the injured, from the PMNRF, the PMO said.

An ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh each will be given to the next of kin of the deceased and Rs 50,000 each to those injured in the wake of cyclone Nivar and heavy rainfall in Tamil Nadu, the Prime Minister's Office said on Friday after Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Chief Minister K Palaniswami.

An ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh each will be given to the next of kin of the deceased and Rs 50,000 each to those injured in the wake of cyclone Nivar and heavy rainfall in Tamil Nadu, the Prime Minister's Office said on Friday after Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Chief Minister K Palaniswami. Also see| Cyclonic storm Nivar clobbers south India; power supply disrupted in several cities The PMO said the monetary assistance to the next of kin of the deceased and to the injured will be provided from the Prime Minister's National Relief Fund (PMNRF) and central teams are being sent to the state to assist in the rescue and relief work. At least three people were killed in Tamil Nadu, over 1,000 trees uprooted and some low-lying areas marooned due to water-logging following heavy rains on Thursday as severe cyclonic storm Nivar made landfall near Puducherry. In the state, about 2.30 lakh people have been accommodated in relief camps following the cyclone, Chief Minister Palaniswami had said. "PM @narendramodi spoke to Tamil Nadu CM Thiru @EPSTamilNadu and discussed the situation in the wake of the cyclone and heavy rainfall in parts of the state. Central teams are being sent to Tamil Nadu to assist in rescue and relief work," the PMO tweeted. PM @narendramodi spoke to Tamil Nadu CM Thiru @EPSTamilNadu and discussed the situation in the wake of the cyclone and heavy rainfall in parts of the state. Central teams are being sent to Tamil Nadu to assist in rescue and relief work. @CMOTamilNadu — PMO India (@PMOIndia) November 27, 2020 × "PM @narendramodi expressed condolence on the loss of lives and prayed for a quick recovery of the injured," it said. An ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh each would be given to the next of kin of the deceased and Rs 50,000 each to the injured, from the PMNRF, the PMO said.

Cyclone Nivar: PM Modi speaks with Tamil Nadu CM; kin of deceased to get Rs 2 lakh, injured Rs 50,000

India will highlight the common Buddhist heritage at the Shanghai cooperation organization heads of government virtual meeting. The meeting will take place on 30th November and India is the host of the meet. New Delhi, as protocol, invited all the member states of SCO--Pakistan, China, Russia, and the 4 central Asian countries Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan.&nbsp;

When it comes to SCO countries, from China to Kyrgyzstan to several parts of Russia has a strong Buddhist legacy, cultural and religious impact. Kyrgyzstan has several of its Buddhist cultural heritages being renovated by Japan. 
 
Russia's Kalmykia has a huge population following Buddhism and regard Dalai Lama as their spiritual leader. Buddhism reached China from India in the first century CE. Visit by Chinese Buddhist monk Xuanzang to India in AD 630s has been much talked about. 
&nbsp; 
When it comes to Buddhism, India has been taking a number of steps internationally to signify the shared cultural heritage. India will soon host a major conference on Buddhist studies starting next year that will see the participation of Buddhist scholars from across the world.&nbsp;

Gautama Buddha founder of Buddhism achieved enlightenment in India's Bodh Gaya. The place is visited by thousands of pilgrims from across the world every year.

During the India-Sri Lanka virtual summit, India announced a $15million grant to Sri Lanka to deepening people-to-people linkages between the two countries in the sphere of Buddhism. The grant will be used for the construction and renovation of Buddhist cultural sites in the Indian Ocean country, archaeological cooperation, and the reciprocal study of Lord Buddha’s relics, strengthening of Buddhist scholarship, and supporting the clergy.

With ASEAN, India shares cultural heritage especially Buddhism and sees an increase in tourists from the grouping. Kushinagar's Airport has been designated as an international airport. Uttar Pradesh's Kushinagar is the place where it is believed that Buddha attained Parinirvana or death after achieving Nirvana.

India will highlight the common Buddhist heritage at the Shanghai cooperation organization heads of government virtual meeting. The meeting will take place on 30th November and India is the host of the meet.

India will highlight the common Buddhist heritage at the Shanghai cooperation organization heads of government virtual meeting. The meeting will take place on 30th November and India is the host of the meet. New Delhi, as protocol, invited all the member states of SCO--Pakistan, China, Russia, and the 4 central Asian countries Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. When it comes to SCO countries, from China to Kyrgyzstan to several parts of Russia has a strong Buddhist legacy, cultural and religious impact. Kyrgyzstan has several of its Buddhist cultural heritages being renovated by Japan. Russia's Kalmykia has a huge population following Buddhism and regard Dalai Lama as their spiritual leader. Buddhism reached China from India in the first century CE. Visit by Chinese Buddhist monk Xuanzang to India in AD 630s has been much talked about. When it comes to Buddhism, India has been taking a number of steps internationally to signify the shared cultural heritage. India will soon host a major conference on Buddhist studies starting next year that will see the participation of Buddhist scholars from across the world. Gautama Buddha founder of Buddhism achieved enlightenment in India's Bodh Gaya. The place is visited by thousands of pilgrims from across the world every year. During the India-Sri Lanka virtual summit, India announced a $15million grant to Sri Lanka to deepening people-to-people linkages between the two countries in the sphere of Buddhism. The grant will be used for the construction and renovation of Buddhist cultural sites in the Indian Ocean country, archaeological cooperation, and the reciprocal study of Lord Buddha’s relics, strengthening of Buddhist scholarship, and supporting the clergy. With ASEAN, India shares cultural heritage especially Buddhism and sees an increase in tourists from the grouping. Kushinagar's Airport has been designated as an international airport. Uttar Pradesh's Kushinagar is the place where it is believed that Buddha attained Parinirvana or death after achieving Nirvana.

India to highlight common Buddhist heritage at SCO heads of Govt meet 

India and Nepal have agreed to step up efforts to advance mutual cooperation as India's foreign secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla met the country's top leadership and held "productive" talks with his Nepalese counterpart on a range of bilateral issues.

Nepal and India also&nbsp;agreed to complete the remaining segment of boundary work.

A statement issued by the Indian Embassy in Kathmandu on Friday morning said the high-ranking officials from both sides discussed the boundary issues and exchanged views on completing the boundary work in the remaining segments.

In their meeting, the two foreign secretaries discussed and reviewed various aspects of the bilateral ties between the two countries, the Indian Embassy statement said, adding that the diplomats expressed satisfaction at the substantial progress made in different sectors of cooperation despite the constraints of the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic.

The Nepal side appreciated Indian government`s active facilitation in ensuring smooth and unhindered cross-border flow of trade and commerce and active implementation of development projects during this time.

The two sides agreed to maintain the renewed momentum in high-level bilateral engagements and to further strengthen the traditionally close, friendly and multifaceted partnership between the two countries, the statement added.

Shringla also called on President Bidya Devi Bhandari and conveyed greetings on behalf of Indian President Ram Nath Kovind. They discussed the close relationship between both countries and ways to further strengthen it.

During his call on the Prime Minister of Nepal, KP Sharma Oli, Shringla conveyed greetings of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

He apprised Oli of his productive meetings with Foreign Minister Pradeep Kumar Gyawali and Foreign Secretary Bharat Raj Paudyal.

"Foreign Secretary Shringla underscored the consensus between both sides to maintain the momentum in bilateral engagements; strengthen people-to-people linkages, make tangible progress on substantive and strategic bilateral initiatives and issues of mutual interest," the embassy statement said.

The Foreign Secretary conveyed an invitation from External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar to Gyawali to visit India for the next Joint Commission Meeting.

In a separate ceremony following the meeting, Shringla handed over 2,000 vials of remdesivir injection to Gyawali for thr treatment of Covid-19 patients.

This follows on earlier Covid-related support by India to Nepal covering essential medicines, equipment and capacity building since April.

He further assured India`s continued support to Nepal in providing Covid-related assistance.

The Indian Foreign Secretary also met Sher Bahadur Deuba, leader of the opposition party and President of Nepali Congress, and discussed wide range of issues including strengthening the Nepal-India ties.

Nepal and India have some old outstanding boundary issues in Susta and Kalapani and a mechanism called Boundary Working Group is working to settle iy and to erect the border pillars since 2014.

A fresh boundary dispute surfaced between the two neighbours after New Delhi published a new map in November 2019 incorporating the disputed territories under its territory.

Countering the Indian decision, Nepal also unveiled a new political map in May this year incorporating the same disputed land under its territory.

Shringla will return to New Delhi on Friday afternoon after completing his two-day visit after inaugurating two India-funded projects in Nepal.

(with inputs from agencies)

India and Nepal have agreed to step up efforts to advance mutual cooperation as India's foreign secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla met the country's top leadership and held "productive" talks with his Nepalese counterpart on a range of bilateral issues.

India and Nepal have agreed to step up efforts to advance mutual cooperation as India's foreign secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla met the country's top leadership and held "productive" talks with his Nepalese counterpart on a range of bilateral issues. Nepal and India also agreed to complete the remaining segment of boundary work. A statement issued by the Indian Embassy in Kathmandu on Friday morning said the high-ranking officials from both sides discussed the boundary issues and exchanged views on completing the boundary work in the remaining segments. In their meeting, the two foreign secretaries discussed and reviewed various aspects of the bilateral ties between the two countries, the Indian Embassy statement said, adding that the diplomats expressed satisfaction at the substantial progress made in different sectors of cooperation despite the constraints of the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic. The Nepal side appreciated Indian government`s active facilitation in ensuring smooth and unhindered cross-border flow of trade and commerce and active implementation of development projects during this time. The two sides agreed to maintain the renewed momentum in high-level bilateral engagements and to further strengthen the traditionally close, friendly and multifaceted partnership between the two countries, the statement added. Shringla also called on President Bidya Devi Bhandari and conveyed greetings on behalf of Indian President Ram Nath Kovind. They discussed the close relationship between both countries and ways to further strengthen it. During his call on the Prime Minister of Nepal, KP Sharma Oli, Shringla conveyed greetings of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He apprised Oli of his productive meetings with Foreign Minister Pradeep Kumar Gyawali and Foreign Secretary Bharat Raj Paudyal. "Foreign Secretary Shringla underscored the consensus between both sides to maintain the momentum in bilateral engagements; strengthen people-to-people linkages, make tangible progress on substantive and strategic bilateral initiatives and issues of mutual interest," the embassy statement said. The Foreign Secretary conveyed an invitation from External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar to Gyawali to visit India for the next Joint Commission Meeting. In a separate ceremony following the meeting, Shringla handed over 2,000 vials of remdesivir injection to Gyawali for thr treatment of Covid-19 patients. This follows on earlier Covid-related support by India to Nepal covering essential medicines, equipment and capacity building since April. He further assured India`s continued support to Nepal in providing Covid-related assistance. The Indian Foreign Secretary also met Sher Bahadur Deuba, leader of the opposition party and President of Nepali Congress, and discussed wide range of issues including strengthening the Nepal-India ties. Nepal and India have some old outstanding boundary issues in Susta and Kalapani and a mechanism called Boundary Working Group is working to settle iy and to erect the border pillars since 2014. A fresh boundary dispute surfaced between the two neighbours after New Delhi published a new map in November 2019 incorporating the disputed territories under its territory. Countering the Indian decision, Nepal also unveiled a new political map in May this year incorporating the same disputed land under its territory. Shringla will return to New Delhi on Friday afternoon after completing his two-day visit after inaugurating two India-funded projects in Nepal. (with inputs from agencies)

New Delhi, Kathmandu agree to advance ties as Shringla meets Nepal's top leadership

India's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a> caseload rose to 9.3 million on Friday after it witnessed 43,082 new cases in the last 24 hours.

As per the latest updates by the healthy ministry, India recorded 492 deaths in the previous 24 hours, pushing the death toll to 135,715 as the total Covid-19 cases stood at 9,309,787.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-vaccine-tracker-pm-modi-to-visit-serum-institute-of-india-on-november-28-345653">Coronavirus vaccine tracker: PM Modi to visit Serum Institute of India on November 28</a>

As many as 8,718,517 people have recuperated from the deadly virus, bringing the recovery rate to 93.64 per cent.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-pandemic-can-be-stopped-if-70-per-cent-of-public-wore-masks-consistently-study-345679">Covid-19 pandemic can be stopped if 70 per cent of public wore masks consistently: Study</a>

The case fatality rate has further reduced to 1.45 per cent.

Amid approaching winter, several cities and states in the country are reimposing strict measures in view of the next wave of Covid-19, including limiting social gathering and curbing movements outside the house.&nbsp;

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday interacted via video conferencing with the chief ministers of states in view of the pandemic.&nbsp;

In the meeting, Modi urged states to take measures to prepare for vaccine distribution once the candidates get regulatory approval.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the United States saw its deadliest day in six months on Thursday as it recorded over 2,400 deaths in 24 hours with the beginning of Thanksgiving holiday.&nbsp;

At least 262,283 deaths have been reported in the US so far, most globally and Brazil and India respectively follow the US.&nbsp;

More than 60.4 million people have contracted the deadly virus and 1.4 million have lost their lives, as per an AFP tally from the official sources on Thursday.

 
&nbsp;

India's coronavirus caseload rose to 9.3 million on Friday after it witnessed 43,082 new cases in the last 24 hours. As per the latest updates by the healthy ministry, India recorded 492 deaths in the previous 24 hours, pushing the death toll to 135,715 as the total Covid-19 cases stood at 9,309,787.

India's coronavirus caseload rose to 9.3 million on Friday after it witnessed 43,082 new cases in the last 24 hours. As per the latest updates by the healthy ministry, India recorded 492 deaths in the previous 24 hours, pushing the death toll to 135,715 as the total Covid-19 cases stood at 9,309,787. Also read | Coronavirus vaccine tracker: PM Modi to visit Serum Institute of India on November 28 As many as 8,718,517 people have recuperated from the deadly virus, bringing the recovery rate to 93.64 per cent. Also read | Covid-19 pandemic can be stopped if 70 per cent of public wore masks consistently: Study The case fatality rate has further reduced to 1.45 per cent. Amid approaching winter, several cities and states in the country are reimposing strict measures in view of the next wave of Covid-19, including limiting social gathering and curbing movements outside the house. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday interacted via video conferencing with the chief ministers of states in view of the pandemic. In the meeting, Modi urged states to take measures to prepare for vaccine distribution once the candidates get regulatory approval. Meanwhile, the United States saw its deadliest day in six months on Thursday as it recorded over 2,400 deaths in 24 hours with the beginning of Thanksgiving holiday. At least 262,283 deaths have been reported in the US so far, most globally and Brazil and India respectively follow the US. More than 60.4 million people have contracted the deadly virus and 1.4 million have lost their lives, as per an AFP tally from the official sources on Thursday.

Coronavirus in India: Total caseload jumps to 9.3 million, death toll stands at 135,715

As part of increased defense cooperation, India &amp; Vietnam have agreed on joint training of pilots by the respective Air Forces and training of forces to be deployed in UN Peacekeeping missions.

This was one of the key outcomes of the virtual meet between India's defence minister Rajnath Singh and Vietnamese defence minister General Ngo Xuan Lich that took place on Friday.

A readout of the meet from Indian defense ministry said both ministers,"discussed various ongoing projects and the future trajectory of bilateral Defense engagements...(and) expressed satisfaction that despite the COVID-19 situation Defense exchanges between both Armed Forces have maintained positive momentum.".

Both countries are also looking at collaborating in a number of domains of defense cooperation like shipbuilding, surface and subsurface capacities like submarines at sea. New Delhi has already extended defence Lines of Credit worth USD 600 million to strengthen Vietnam’s domestic defence manufacturing.

The release explained out,"Ministers discussed collaboration in Defence Industry capability building, training and cooperation in UN Peacekeeping Operations"

India assured Vietnam, a key partner in Indo-Pacific that it remains committed to the modernization of the Vietnamese Armed Forces during. Both sides also signed the agreement on Hydrographic cooperation that will enable the sharing of Hydrographic data and assist in the production of navigational charts by both sides.

The Vietnamese defence minister invited the Indian defence minister for ASEAN Defence Ministers' Meeting (ADMM) and also the meeting being hosted by Vietnam on 10 Dec through virtual mode.

As part of increased defense cooperation, India & Vietnam have agreed on joint training of pilots by the respective Air Forces and training of forces to be deployed in UN Peacekeeping missions.

As part of increased defense cooperation, India & Vietnam have agreed on joint training of pilots by the respective Air Forces and training of forces to be deployed in UN Peacekeeping missions. This was one of the key outcomes of the virtual meet between India's defence minister Rajnath Singh and Vietnamese defence minister General Ngo Xuan Lich that took place on Friday. A readout of the meet from Indian defense ministry said both ministers,"discussed various ongoing projects and the future trajectory of bilateral Defense engagements...(and) expressed satisfaction that despite the COVID-19 situation Defense exchanges between both Armed Forces have maintained positive momentum.". Both countries are also looking at collaborating in a number of domains of defense cooperation like shipbuilding, surface and subsurface capacities like submarines at sea. New Delhi has already extended defence Lines of Credit worth USD 600 million to strengthen Vietnam’s domestic defence manufacturing. The release explained out,"Ministers discussed collaboration in Defence Industry capability building, training and cooperation in UN Peacekeeping Operations" India assured Vietnam, a key partner in Indo-Pacific that it remains committed to the modernization of the Vietnamese Armed Forces during. Both sides also signed the agreement on Hydrographic cooperation that will enable the sharing of Hydrographic data and assist in the production of navigational charts by both sides. The Vietnamese defence minister invited the Indian defence minister for ASEAN Defence Ministers' Meeting (ADMM) and also the meeting being hosted by Vietnam on 10 Dec through virtual mode.

India, Vietnam to jointly train pilots, collaborate in shipbuilding

To counter China,&nbsp;India's topmost representatives have travelled to five countries in its&nbsp;immediate and&nbsp;the extended neighbourhood.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar is on a tour to West Asia,&nbsp;foreign secretary Harsh Shringla is on a tour of Nepal and&nbsp;National Security Advisor&nbsp;Ajit Doval is on a tour to Sri Lanka.

The high-profile visits of Indian diplomats to its neighbouring countries are being seen as an effort to wrest back the waning regional influence from China. India is embroiled in a deadly border showdown with China in eastern Ladakh since May and&nbsp;has sought closer military ties with other countries.

As per reports, the Ladakh border standoff is likely to extend through the winter. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi&nbsp;is advancing bilateral ties with countries where the security interests of both sides converge.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nsa-ajit-doval-arrives-in-sri-lanka-to-attend-trilateral-maritime-dialogue-345789" hreflang="en">NSA Ajit Doval arrives in Sri Lanka to attend trilateral maritime dialogue</a>

Doval, India's National Security Advisor, arrived in Colombo on Friday for trilateral maritime dialogue among India, Sri Lanka and the Maldives. Sri Lanka will host the fourth national security advisor trilateral meeting on maritime security cooperation with India and Maldives on Friday and Saturday.

This will be the first NSA level meeting on Trilateral Maritime Security Cooperation. Besides Doval, Sri Lankan Defence Secretary Major General (Retd). Kamal Gunaratne and Maldives Defence Minister Mariya Didi will participate in the meeting.

To defeat China's unending unilateralism, the agenda of the meeting will be cooperation and collective action on security issues in the Indian Ocean region.

From the Hambantota port in Sri Lanka to a friendship bridge in the Maldives,&nbsp;China has been vying for greater control in the region.&nbsp;The maritime dialogue will be aimed at rehauling India's traditional sphere of influence.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nepal-occupies-special-place-in-our-hearts-says-fs-harsh-v-shringla-345802" hreflang="en">Nepal occupies special place in our hearts, says FS Harsh V Shringla</a>

India's foreign secretary Harsh Shringla on Friday said Nepal holds a very special place in everybody's hearts. He said this as he inaugurated India-built projects during his visit to Kathmandu.&nbsp;

India is building 50,000 houses in the Gorkha and Nuwakot districts of Nepal, of which 46,000 have been built. Many houses in this area were damaged due to the 2015 Nepal earthquake.

On his first day of the visit, Shringla met the top political leadership of the Himalayan republic, from PM Oli to&nbsp;President Bidya Devi Bhandari.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-energy-defence-key-focus-of-foreign-minister-jaishankars-uae-visit-345763" hreflang="en">Covid-19, energy, defence key focus of Foreign Minister Jaishankar's UAE visit</a>

Energy, Covid-19 cooperation, defence were the key focus areas of External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar's visit to United Arab Emirates (UAE) as he met the top leadership---Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and foreign minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan.&nbsp;

The primary goal of these visits is securing India's interests in the Gulf.&nbsp;New Delhi is working towards protecting the interests of eight million Indians living and&nbsp;working in the region.&nbsp;At the same time big ticket-investments are being made to generate income&nbsp;and India is looking to offer investment opportunities.

Allies in the Gulf are also crucial for India while tackling the perpetual nuisance, Pakistan.&nbsp;

From West Asia to South Asia, there is a renewed push by New Delhi to secure the neighbourhood from growing challenges.

India is making a&nbsp;renewed effort to strengthen the strategic backyard and&nbsp;a strong message for China and Pakistan to mend their ways.

To counter China, India's topmost representatives have travelled to five countries in its immediate and the extended neighbourhood. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar is on a tour to West Asia, foreign secretary Harsh Shringla is on a tour of Nepal and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval is on a tour to Sri Lanka.

To counter China, India's topmost representatives have travelled to five countries in its immediate and the extended neighbourhood. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar is on a tour to West Asia, foreign secretary Harsh Shringla is on a tour of Nepal and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval is on a tour to Sri Lanka. The high-profile visits of Indian diplomats to its neighbouring countries are being seen as an effort to wrest back the waning regional influence from China. India is embroiled in a deadly border showdown with China in eastern Ladakh since May and has sought closer military ties with other countries. As per reports, the Ladakh border standoff is likely to extend through the winter. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is advancing bilateral ties with countries where the security interests of both sides converge. Also read: NSA Ajit Doval arrives in Sri Lanka to attend trilateral maritime dialogue Doval, India's National Security Advisor, arrived in Colombo on Friday for trilateral maritime dialogue among India, Sri Lanka and the Maldives. Sri Lanka will host the fourth national security advisor trilateral meeting on maritime security cooperation with India and Maldives on Friday and Saturday. This will be the first NSA level meeting on Trilateral Maritime Security Cooperation. Besides Doval, Sri Lankan Defence Secretary Major General (Retd). Kamal Gunaratne and Maldives Defence Minister Mariya Didi will participate in the meeting. To defeat China's unending unilateralism, the agenda of the meeting will be cooperation and collective action on security issues in the Indian Ocean region. From the Hambantota port in Sri Lanka to a friendship bridge in the Maldives, China has been vying for greater control in the region. The maritime dialogue will be aimed at rehauling India's traditional sphere of influence. Also read: Nepal occupies special place in our hearts, says FS Harsh V Shringla India's foreign secretary Harsh Shringla on Friday said Nepal holds a very special place in everybody's hearts. He said this as he inaugurated India-built projects during his visit to Kathmandu. India is building 50,000 houses in the Gorkha and Nuwakot districts of Nepal, of which 46,000 have been built. Many houses in this area were damaged due to the 2015 Nepal earthquake. On his first day of the visit, Shringla met the top political leadership of the Himalayan republic, from PM Oli to President Bidya Devi Bhandari. Also read: Covid-19, energy, defence key focus of Foreign Minister Jaishankar's UAE visit Energy, Covid-19 cooperation, defence were the key focus areas of External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar's visit to United Arab Emirates (UAE) as he met the top leadership---Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and foreign minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The primary goal of these visits is securing India's interests in the Gulf. New Delhi is working towards protecting the interests of eight million Indians living and working in the region. At the same time big ticket-investments are being made to generate income and India is looking to offer investment opportunities. Allies in the Gulf are also crucial for India while tackling the perpetual nuisance, Pakistan. From West Asia to South Asia, there is a renewed push by New Delhi to secure the neighbourhood from growing challenges. India is making a renewed effort to strengthen the strategic backyard and a strong message for China and Pakistan to mend their ways.

India-China standoff: How India is countering China's aggression with 'neighbourhood diplomacy'

The trilateral meet will see discussions on maritime security cooperation in the Indian Ocean region and will be attended by NSA Ajit Doval.

India’s NSA Ajit Doval visits Sri Lanka for Trilateral Security Meet

The 47th meet of the foreign ministers of the OIC or Organisation of Islamic Cooperation took place at an India-built convention center in Niger's capital Niamey. The Mahatma Gandhi International Convention Centre (MGICC) is the first such centre which was established in Africa by India to honour the memory of Mahatma Gandhi whose 150th birth anniversary was observed in 2019.

Maldives Foreign minister Abdulla Shahid tweeted a picture of himself at the convention centre saying, OIC meet was "taking place at the beautiful Mahatma Gandhi International Conference Center in Niamey, at this time of crisis it is crucial to build solidarity, togetherness and friendship to overcome the many challenges the world faces today!"

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The 47th Council of Foreign Ministers of <a href="https://twitter.com/OIC_OCI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@OIC_OCI</a>, taking place at the beautiful Mahatma Gandhi International Conference Center in Niamey, at this time of crisis, it is crucial to build solidarity, togetherness and friendship to overcome the many challenges the world faces today! <a href="https://t.co/RM9C2MNq1x">pic.twitter.com/RM9C2MNq1x</a>
— Abdulla Shahid (@abdulla_shahid) <a href="https://twitter.com/abdulla_shahid/status/1332324120965623809?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 27, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The centre was jointly inaugurated by External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar and Niger's President Mahamadou Issoufou during the former's visit to the country in January of this year.&nbsp;

A Ministry of External Affairs release that time said, "The establishment of the Centre is a landmark for India-Niger friendship, as also a symbol of India’s firm commitment towards Africa."

The plenary hall of the centre has a capacity of 2000 people and with total cost being at USD 56 million. It was constructed by Shapoorji Pallonji Private Limited with Government of India's NBCC being the project management consultant for the project.&nbsp;

The total duration of construction was 13 months, and India is building more such centres across the continent. India offered to establish Mahatma Gandhi Convention Centres in more than 20 countries in Africa. The centres in 9 countries are being built in the immediate phase.

The 47th meet of the foreign ministers of the OIC or Organisation of Islamic Cooperation took place at an India-built convention center in Niger's capital Niamey.

The 47th meet of the foreign ministers of the OIC or Organisation of Islamic Cooperation took place at an India-built convention center in Niger's capital Niamey. The Mahatma Gandhi International Convention Centre (MGICC) is the first such centre which was established in Africa by India to honour the memory of Mahatma Gandhi whose 150th birth anniversary was observed in 2019. Maldives Foreign minister Abdulla Shahid tweeted a picture of himself at the convention centre saying, OIC meet was "taking place at the beautiful Mahatma Gandhi International Conference Center in Niamey, at this time of crisis it is crucial to build solidarity, togetherness and friendship to overcome the many challenges the world faces today!" The 47th Council of Foreign Ministers of @OIC_OCI, taking place at the beautiful Mahatma Gandhi International Conference Center in Niamey, at this time of crisis, it is crucial to build solidarity, togetherness and friendship to overcome the many challenges the world faces today! pic.twitter.com/RM9C2MNq1x — Abdulla Shahid (@abdulla_shahid) November 27, 2020 × The centre was jointly inaugurated by External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar and Niger's President Mahamadou Issoufou during the former's visit to the country in January of this year. A Ministry of External Affairs release that time said, "The establishment of the Centre is a landmark for India-Niger friendship, as also a symbol of India’s firm commitment towards Africa." The plenary hall of the centre has a capacity of 2000 people and with total cost being at USD 56 million. It was constructed by Shapoorji Pallonji Private Limited with Government of India's NBCC being the project management consultant for the project. The total duration of construction was 13 months, and India is building more such centres across the continent. India offered to establish Mahatma Gandhi Convention Centres in more than 20 countries in Africa. The centres in 9 countries are being built in the immediate phase.

OIC meet takes place at India-built convention centre in Niger

Jewish outreach movement Chabad has unveiled a plaque at its synagogue in Israel's southern coastal city of Eilat in the memory of six Jews killed in the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks.

Rav Hecht and First Secretary at the Embassy of India in Israel Rohit Mishra unveiled the plaque mounted on a wall inside the synagogue, demanding that the perpetrators of the carnage be brought to justice.

Engraved on a hard plastic plate, the message was personally drafted by Rav Hecht.

The Mumbai Chabad House at Nariman Point was one of the targets of the attacks. Ten terrorists of Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba carried out 12 coordinated shooting and bombing attacks lasting four days across Mumbai.

"To the memory and rise of souls of Rabbi Gavriel Noah and Rivka Holtsberg, who were martyred during the time of their holy mission in a terror attack at Chabad House in Mumbai, India, from which the message of Torah was being spread all over the area. And for the four guests who stayed in Chabad House at the time of the attack, and were also martyred: Rabi Gavriel Taitelbaum, Mrs. Norma Rabinovich, Rabi Ben Zion Kurman, Mrs, Yocheved Orpaz. May their souls be bound up in the bond of eternal life," read the 3A paper size plaque that was unveiled on Thursday.

At least 166 people were killed and over 300 others were injured in the attacks which began on November 26, 2008.

The Chabad Movement and Jews of Indian origin in Eilat have also requested Mayor Meir Itzhak Ha Levi to set up a 26/11 memorial square in the city on the lines of the one dedicated to the victims of the 9/11 attack.

The mayor has reacted favourably to the proposal, extending all help and support, representatives of the Sitar Organisation for Indian Immigrants in Eilat said.

The Sitar Organisation also put up a plaque in the memory of the six Jewish victims of 26/11 at its club on Thursday. The plaque was unveiled at a sombre ceremony which was also attended by Deputy Mayor of Eilat Stas Dinkin.

Ceremonies to pay respects to the victims of the 26/11 attacks were also held in the southern Israeli city of Beersheva on Thursday. Indians and Israelis lit candles in the memory of the innocent victims.

At a separate ceremony held at Beersheva Cricket Club that was mostly attended by Jews of Indian origin and Rabbi Meir Simcha of the Chabad Movement, the attendees condemned Pakistan and called for India and Israel to stand together in the fight against terror.

The Indian Heritage Jewish Centre headed by Avner Isaac also organised a Zoom meeting on Thursday evening to commemorate the 12th anniversary of the attacks. Hundreds of people from all over the world took part in the virtual event.

(with inputs)

Jewish outreach movement Chabad has unveiled a plaque at its synagogue in Israel's southern coastal city of Eilat in the memory of six Jews killed in the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks.

Jewish outreach movement Chabad has unveiled a plaque at its synagogue in Israel's southern coastal city of Eilat in the memory of six Jews killed in the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks. Rav Hecht and First Secretary at the Embassy of India in Israel Rohit Mishra unveiled the plaque mounted on a wall inside the synagogue, demanding that the perpetrators of the carnage be brought to justice. Engraved on a hard plastic plate, the message was personally drafted by Rav Hecht. The Mumbai Chabad House at Nariman Point was one of the targets of the attacks. Ten terrorists of Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba carried out 12 coordinated shooting and bombing attacks lasting four days across Mumbai. "To the memory and rise of souls of Rabbi Gavriel Noah and Rivka Holtsberg, who were martyred during the time of their holy mission in a terror attack at Chabad House in Mumbai, India, from which the message of Torah was being spread all over the area. And for the four guests who stayed in Chabad House at the time of the attack, and were also martyred: Rabi Gavriel Taitelbaum, Mrs. Norma Rabinovich, Rabi Ben Zion Kurman, Mrs, Yocheved Orpaz. May their souls be bound up in the bond of eternal life," read the 3A paper size plaque that was unveiled on Thursday. At least 166 people were killed and over 300 others were injured in the attacks which began on November 26, 2008. The Chabad Movement and Jews of Indian origin in Eilat have also requested Mayor Meir Itzhak Ha Levi to set up a 26/11 memorial square in the city on the lines of the one dedicated to the victims of the 9/11 attack. The mayor has reacted favourably to the proposal, extending all help and support, representatives of the Sitar Organisation for Indian Immigrants in Eilat said. The Sitar Organisation also put up a plaque in the memory of the six Jewish victims of 26/11 at its club on Thursday. The plaque was unveiled at a sombre ceremony which was also attended by Deputy Mayor of Eilat Stas Dinkin. Ceremonies to pay respects to the victims of the 26/11 attacks were also held in the southern Israeli city of Beersheva on Thursday. Indians and Israelis lit candles in the memory of the innocent victims. At a separate ceremony held at Beersheva Cricket Club that was mostly attended by Jews of Indian origin and Rabbi Meir Simcha of the Chabad Movement, the attendees condemned Pakistan and called for India and Israel to stand together in the fight against terror. The Indian Heritage Jewish Centre headed by Avner Isaac also organised a Zoom meeting on Thursday evening to commemorate the 12th anniversary of the attacks. Hundreds of people from all over the world took part in the virtual event. (with inputs)

Memorial plaque for Jewish victims of 26/11 Mumbai attacks unveiled at Israel synagogue

Three coronavirus patients were killed after a fire broke out in the ICU of a designated COVID-19 hospital in Gujarat's Rajkot in the early hours of Friday, a fire brigade official said.

Thirty other coronavirus patients undergoing treatment at the hospital were rescued, he said.

The fire broke out in the ICU of Uday Shivanand Hospital in Mavdi area, where 33 patients were admitted, around 1 am.

Seven of the patients were admitted to the ICU, fire brigade official J B Theva said.

"We rushed to the spot and rescued 30 patients after a call informing about the fire was received. Three patients died inside the ICU," he said.

The fire is under control.

The cause of the fire has not been ascertained yet, he said.

The rescued patients have been shifted to other COVID-19 hospitals, he added.

In August, eight COVID-19 patients were killed after a fire broke out on the top floor of a four-storey private hospital in Ahmedabad.

Three coronavirus patients were killed after a fire broke out in the ICU of a designated COVID-19 hospital in Gujarat's Rajkot in the early hours of Friday, a fire brigade official said.

Three coronavirus patients were killed after a fire broke out in the ICU of a designated COVID-19 hospital in Gujarat's Rajkot in the early hours of Friday, a fire brigade official said. Thirty other coronavirus patients undergoing treatment at the hospital were rescued, he said. The fire broke out in the ICU of Uday Shivanand Hospital in Mavdi area, where 33 patients were admitted, around 1 am. Seven of the patients were admitted to the ICU, fire brigade official J B Theva said. "We rushed to the spot and rescued 30 patients after a call informing about the fire was received. Three patients died inside the ICU," he said. The fire is under control. The cause of the fire has not been ascertained yet, he said. The rescued patients have been shifted to other COVID-19 hospitals, he added. In August, eight COVID-19 patients were killed after a fire broke out on the top floor of a four-storey private hospital in Ahmedabad.

Three COVID-19 patients killed as fire breaks out at Rajkot hospital

National Security Advisor Ajit Doval arrived here on Friday for a trilateral maritime dialogue among India, Sri Lanka and the Maldives.

NSA Ajit Doval arrives in Sri Lanka to attend 4th trilateral maritime meet

One pilot was rescued while the search for the other one is underway after a MiG-29K trainer aircraft crashed into the Arabian sea on Thursday evening, the Indian Navy said in a statement on Friday.&nbsp;

"A MiG-29K trainer aircraft operating at sea met with an accident at about 1700 hrs on 26 Nov 20," the Navy said in a statement.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-navys-first-batch-of-women-pilots-soar-high-on-dornier-aircraft-337166">Indian Navy's first batch of women pilots soar high on Dornier aircraft</a>

It added that one pilot recovered and progress to search the second one by air and surface units is ongoing.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-a-first-india-to-deliver-submarine-to-myanmar-navy-335553">In a first, India to deliver submarine to Myanmar navy</a>

"An inquiry has been ordered to investigate the incident," it said.&nbsp;

Sources said the jet had taken off from aircraft carrier INS Vikramaditya, reports news agency PTI.&nbsp;

The carrier was part of the recently-held Malabar exercise involving the navies of India, the US, Australia and Japan&nbsp;

About 40 MiG-29K fighter jets are under the possession of Indian Navy and some of them operate from the aircraft carrier.&nbsp;

One pilot was rescued while the search for the other one is underway after a MiG-29K trainer aircraft crashed into the Arabian sea on Thursday evening, the Indian Navy said in a statement on Friday.

One pilot was rescued while the search for the other one is underway after a MiG-29K trainer aircraft crashed into the Arabian sea on Thursday evening, the Indian Navy said in a statement on Friday. "A MiG-29K trainer aircraft operating at sea met with an accident at about 1700 hrs on 26 Nov 20," the Navy said in a statement. Also read | Indian Navy's first batch of women pilots soar high on Dornier aircraft It added that one pilot recovered and progress to search the second one by air and surface units is ongoing. Also read | In a first, India to deliver submarine to Myanmar navy "An inquiry has been ordered to investigate the incident," it said. Sources said the jet had taken off from aircraft carrier INS Vikramaditya, reports news agency PTI. The carrier was part of the recently-held Malabar exercise involving the navies of India, the US, Australia and Japan About 40 MiG-29K fighter jets are under the possession of Indian Navy and some of them operate from the aircraft carrier.

MiG-29K trainer aircraft crashes; one pilot rescued, search for other underway

Union government has allowed farmers protesting against the Centre's farm laws to enter Delhi with permission to hold their agitation at the Burari ground.

Farmers faced tear gas and water cannons along the Delhi-Haryana border and clashed with police today as they marched towards the national capital as part of their 'Delhi Chalo' protest against the Centre's new farm laws.&nbsp;

The Delhi Police used tear gas shells to disperse a group of farmers who had reached the Singhu border, while at the Tigri border security personnel used water cannons to disperse farmers trying to enter the national capital.

"We have been allowed safe passage to Delhi," claimed Krantikari Kisan Union president Darshan Pal.

He said that officials of the Union home ministry had allowed them a place at Burari in Delhi to hold agitation.

Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh also confirmed the development.

"I welcome Centre’s decision to allow farmers to enter Delhi to exercise their democratic right to protest. They should also now initiate immediate talks to address farmers' concerns on the #FarmLaws and resolve the simmering issue," he tweeted.

(With inputs from agencies)

Union government has allowed farmers protesting against the Centre's farm laws to enter Delhi with permission to hold their agitation at the Burari ground. Farmers faced tear gas and water cannons along the Delhi-Haryana border and clashed with police today as they marched towards the national capital as part of their 'Delhi Chalo' protest against the Centre's new farm laws.

Union government has allowed farmers protesting against the Centre's farm laws to enter Delhi with permission to hold their agitation at the Burari ground. Farmers faced tear gas and water cannons along the Delhi-Haryana border and clashed with police today as they marched towards the national capital as part of their 'Delhi Chalo' protest against the Centre's new farm laws. The Delhi Police used tear gas shells to disperse a group of farmers who had reached the Singhu border, while at the Tigri border security personnel used water cannons to disperse farmers trying to enter the national capital. "We have been allowed safe passage to Delhi," claimed Krantikari Kisan Union president Darshan Pal. He said that officials of the Union home ministry had allowed them a place at Burari in Delhi to hold agitation. Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh also confirmed the development. "I welcome Centre’s decision to allow farmers to enter Delhi to exercise their democratic right to protest. They should also now initiate immediate talks to address farmers' concerns on the #FarmLaws and resolve the simmering issue," he tweeted. (With inputs from agencies)

Centre allows entry of farmers in Delhi, grants permission to conduct 'peaceful' agitation

India's foreign secretary Harsh Shringla on Friday said Nepal holds a very special place in everybody's hearts. He said this as he inaugurated India-built projects during his visit to Kathmandu.

Speaking at the inauguration of three schools in Gorkha district, he said, "Nepal occupies a special place in our hearts. We have been glad to able to assist in your reconstruction. Both India and Nepal have young populations, we value education. A good education is the best investment for the future and our people."

India is building 50,000 houses in the Gorkha and Nuwakot districts of Nepal, of which 46,000 have been built. Many houses in this area were damaged due to the 2015 Nepal earthquake.

Shringla also remotely inaugurated an India-funded project to renovate the Tashop (Tare) Gompa monastery in Manang District.

Earlier speaking at an event, Shringla highlighted the common "civilisational heritage, culture and customs" and "people-to-people linkages are so strong and so powerful that quite frankly we in government only complement these".

He added "Nepal is fundamental to our 'Neighbourhood First' approach" and "India’s development and modernisation are incomplete and intrinsically and symbiotically linked to the development and modernisation of neighbouring countries such as Nepal."

On day one of his visit, Shringla had met the political leadership of the country including Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli. COVID cooperation, development projects, and boundary issues were discussed during the meeting.&nbsp;

This is the third high-level visit from India to Nepal amidst the pandemic.

India's foreign secretary Harsh Shringla on Friday said Nepal holds a very special place in everybody's hearts. He said this as he inaugurated India-built projects during his visit to Kathmandu.

India's foreign secretary Harsh Shringla on Friday said Nepal holds a very special place in everybody's hearts. He said this as he inaugurated India-built projects during his visit to Kathmandu. Speaking at the inauguration of three schools in Gorkha district, he said, "Nepal occupies a special place in our hearts. We have been glad to able to assist in your reconstruction. Both India and Nepal have young populations, we value education. A good education is the best investment for the future and our people." India is building 50,000 houses in the Gorkha and Nuwakot districts of Nepal, of which 46,000 have been built. Many houses in this area were damaged due to the 2015 Nepal earthquake. Shringla also remotely inaugurated an India-funded project to renovate the Tashop (Tare) Gompa monastery in Manang District. Earlier speaking at an event, Shringla highlighted the common "civilisational heritage, culture and customs" and "people-to-people linkages are so strong and so powerful that quite frankly we in government only complement these". He added "Nepal is fundamental to our 'Neighbourhood First' approach" and "India’s development and modernisation are incomplete and intrinsically and symbiotically linked to the development and modernisation of neighbouring countries such as Nepal." On day one of his visit, Shringla had met the political leadership of the country including Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli. COVID cooperation, development projects, and boundary issues were discussed during the meeting. This is the third high-level visit from India to Nepal amidst the pandemic.

Nepal occupies special place in our hearts, says FS Harsh V Shringla

India’s official GDP data will be released today. Asia’s third- largest economy registered its steepest fall historically in April-June quarter which is also Q1 of current financial year. Though India’s economy is recovering but just how strong the beginning of that recovery has been will be clear when the National Statistics Office releases the July-September quarter gross domestic product data.

All eyes on Q2 GDP data due today

India's defence minister Rajnath Singh and Vietnamese defence minister General Ngo Xuan Lich held a virtual meet on Friday, with focus on strengthening of ties and increase bilateral exchanges.&nbsp;

In terms of defence, both sides have increased partnership significantly. India trains a number of Vietnamese defence personnel under the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) which has 70 slots for the country.&nbsp;

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nsa-ajit-doval-arrives-in-sri-lanka-to-attend-trilateral-maritime-dialogue-345789">NSA Ajit Doval arrives in Sri Lanka to attend trilateral maritime dialogue</a>

In October 2019, the 12th annual security dialogue at defence secretary-level took place in Ho Chin Minh city. India has deputed mobile training teams to 11 countries, among them one is&nbsp;Vietnam. Defence industrial cooperation has been a new focus area of cooperation, with New Delhi extending defence Lines of Credit worth US$ 600 million to strengthening Vietnam’s domestic defence manufacturing.

Both, India and Vietnam, have been dealing with an aggressive China — India at the Line of Actual Control in Eastern Ladakh while Vietnam in the South China Sea — with Chinese vessels breaching into the country's exclusive economic zone.

Amidst the aggressive behaviour, both are working together, especially on the Indo Pacific concept. ASEAN countries, including Vietnam, have come up with their own outlook on the Indo-Pacific, which is broadly similar to India’s Indo-Pacific Vision.

India's defence minister Rajnath Singh and Vietnamese defence minister General Ngo Xuan Lich held a virtual meet on Friday, with focus on strengthening of ties and increase bilateral exchanges.

India's defence minister Rajnath Singh and Vietnamese defence minister General Ngo Xuan Lich held a virtual meet on Friday, with focus on strengthening of ties and increase bilateral exchanges. In terms of defence, both sides have increased partnership significantly. India trains a number of Vietnamese defence personnel under the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) which has 70 slots for the country. Also read| NSA Ajit Doval arrives in Sri Lanka to attend trilateral maritime dialogue In October 2019, the 12th annual security dialogue at defence secretary-level took place in Ho Chin Minh city. India has deputed mobile training teams to 11 countries, among them one is Vietnam. Defence industrial cooperation has been a new focus area of cooperation, with New Delhi extending defence Lines of Credit worth US$ 600 million to strengthening Vietnam’s domestic defence manufacturing. Both, India and Vietnam, have been dealing with an aggressive China — India at the Line of Actual Control in Eastern Ladakh while Vietnam in the South China Sea — with Chinese vessels breaching into the country's exclusive economic zone. Amidst the aggressive behaviour, both are working together, especially on the Indo Pacific concept. ASEAN countries, including Vietnam, have come up with their own outlook on the Indo-Pacific, which is broadly similar to India’s Indo-Pacific Vision.

Indian and Vietnamese defence ministers hold talks

Energy, Covid-19 cooperation, defence were the key focus areas of External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar's visit to United Arab Emirates (UAE) as he met the top leadership---Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and foreign minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan.&nbsp;

The in-person visit comes amidst the pandemic and UAE normalising its ties with Israel, a significant development that has ramifications in the region.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Thank HH <a href="https://twitter.com/MohamedBinZayed?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MohamedBinZayed</a> for receiving me on arrival at Abu Dhabi. Conveyed the greetings and good wishes of PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a>. UAE’s care and consideration of its large Indian community is deeply appreciated. <a href="https://t.co/0xewAQvj9a">pic.twitter.com/0xewAQvj9a</a>
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1331699969280106497?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 25, 2020</a></blockquote>
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A statement from the Ministry of External Affairs said, "EAM and the UAE Foreign Minister discussed recent regional and international developments and agreed to continue coordination on various multilateral issues."

When it comes to Covid-19, EAM briefed his counterpart on the "progress made by India" in dealing the pandemic and thanked the Emirati leadership for " taking great care of Indians during the Covid-19 pandemic".

UAE has the largest population of Indians outside of India, many of whom are playing a key part in the local economy and also sending huge remittances back home.&nbsp;

EAM is on a week-long 3 nation visit and has already visited Bahrain and UAE and his next destination is Indian ocean Island country of Seychelles to meet with the new leadership of President Ramkalawan.

Energy, Covid-19 cooperation, defence were the key focus areas of External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar's visit to United Arab Emirates (UAE) as he met the top leadership---Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and foreign minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

Energy, Covid-19 cooperation, defence were the key focus areas of External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar's visit to United Arab Emirates (UAE) as he met the top leadership---Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and foreign minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The in-person visit comes amidst the pandemic and UAE normalising its ties with Israel, a significant development that has ramifications in the region. Thank HH @MohamedBinZayed for receiving me on arrival at Abu Dhabi. Conveyed the greetings and good wishes of PM @narendramodi. UAE’s care and consideration of its large Indian community is deeply appreciated. pic.twitter.com/0xewAQvj9a — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) November 25, 2020 × A statement from the Ministry of External Affairs said, "EAM and the UAE Foreign Minister discussed recent regional and international developments and agreed to continue coordination on various multilateral issues." When it comes to Covid-19, EAM briefed his counterpart on the "progress made by India" in dealing the pandemic and thanked the Emirati leadership for " taking great care of Indians during the Covid-19 pandemic". UAE has the largest population of Indians outside of India, many of whom are playing a key part in the local economy and also sending huge remittances back home. EAM is on a week-long 3 nation visit and has already visited Bahrain and UAE and his next destination is Indian ocean Island country of Seychelles to meet with the new leadership of President Ramkalawan.

Covid-19, energy, defence key focus of Foreign Minister Jaishankar's UAE visit

Two army soldiers were killed along the Line of Control in Suderbani sector of Rajouri district after Pakistan violated the ceasefire, the army said. &nbsp;

“Pakistan Army resorted to an unprovoked ceasefire violation on the Line of Control (LoC) in Sunderbani Sector of District Rajouri on 27 November,” Lt Col Devender Anand, army’s Jammu based spokesman told WION.

The deceased have been identified as Naik Prem Bahadur Khatri and Rifleman Sukhbir Singh who initially was critically injured and later succumbed to their injuries at a medical facility.

The incident comes after a JCO was killed and a civilian was injured on LoC in Poonch district in Pakistan ceasefire violation yesterday.

Two army soldiers were killed along the Line of Control in Suderbani sector of Rajouri district after Pakistan violated the ceasefire, the army said. “Pakistan Army resorted to an unprovoked ceasefire violation on the Line of Control (LoC) in Sunderbani Sector of District Rajouri on 27 November,” Lt Col Devender Anand, army’s Jammu based spokesman told WION.

Two army soldiers were killed along the Line of Control in Suderbani sector of Rajouri district after Pakistan violated the ceasefire, the army said. “Pakistan Army resorted to an unprovoked ceasefire violation on the Line of Control (LoC) in Sunderbani Sector of District Rajouri on 27 November,” Lt Col Devender Anand, army’s Jammu based spokesman told WION. The deceased have been identified as Naik Prem Bahadur Khatri and Rifleman Sukhbir Singh who initially was critically injured and later succumbed to their injuries at a medical facility. The incident comes after a JCO was killed and a civilian was injured on LoC in Poonch district in Pakistan ceasefire violation yesterday.

J&K: Two army men killed in Pakistan ceasefire violations in 24 hours

As the world inches closer to a vaccine that works, India is shaping its own strategy for a rollout to decide how will the vaccine be distributed. Because the world has its eyes on how India handles this. This is for two reasons,

<ul>
	<li>India has a large population. Putting an end to the pandemic here will be a big victory in the fight against the Wuhan virus. And vaccines are being seen as the ultimate weapon to defeat this pandemic.</li>
	<li>India is one of the biggest exporters of vaccines. And the early batches will have limited supplies. India has the responsibility of making sure that a shot reaches every Indian...</li>
</ul>

So, the world has an eye on what India's strategy could look like.

We have an early idea of India's playbook.

India could vaccinate at least 250 to 300 million citizens by july 2021. This could include about 30 million healthcare and frontline workers.

For this, India could end up procuring 500 to 600 million vaccine doses. This is a massive undertaking. One that would require coordination at the level of the central government, the states and the districts.

The most important question is, who will get these vaccines?

This could be a list of priorities.

<ul>
	<li>Healthcare workers would come first.</li>
	<li>Then citizens above 65 years of age.</li>
	<li>Then people within the age bracket of 50 to 65.</li>
	<li>Followed by those who are below 50 years of age and suffering from ailments</li>
</ul>

Reportedly, members of the police, paramilitary and those working in sanitisation could also get a shot on priority.

If you are below 50 years and are healthy you'll be last in line to get a shot. The vaccines will be given out only after regulatory approvals.

First, the manufacturers will have to move for permissions. They are likely to be allowed to supply the vaccines under emergency use authorisation. The vaccines will go to the health care workers first.

At least initially these vaccines may not be available commercially. You may not be able to go to a pharmacy and buy this shot. This means if you are healthy you will have to wait a little while longer.

India may not opt for the Pfizer vaccine.

Reportedly, Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan has said it doesn't make sense for India to consider it yet. The vaccine hasn't been even given a license yet even by US Government.

Pfizer is an American company. It has moved for emergency authorization in the US. Its vaccine is one of the frontrunners in the rollout. The company plans to distribute the vaccine by Mid-December worldwide.

But there is a problem. This vaccine needs to be stored at minus 70-degree temperatures. Basically, in an ultra low-temperature freezer. Despite the hurdles Pfizer remains confident.

"If times go as as they should, we believe that by mid-december, at the end of december, the vaccine may be authorised for use and that way it can begin to be used in the united states, but we are also doing the same submission in other agency regulators around the world, in Australia, in Japan, in the united kingdom, in the European economic community, with which we are convinced that before the end of the year the vaccine will be used not only in the united states but in various parts of the world," said Alejandro Cane, Pfizer's head of vaccines, medical and scientific affairs for Latin America and Canada.

So, it seems like Pfizer will send its first vaccine consignments to the developed world.

Which vaccine will India end up getting then?

&nbsp;Reportedly, India has placed advanced orders for two vaccines. The Astrazeneca-Oxford shot and Sputnik V.

The Oxford vaccine will be supplied via the Serum Institute of India. The company says it has already produced 40 million doses and by January they could have up to 100 million doses.

The Serum Institute says it plans to sell each shot to the Indian Government for three dollars or 250 Indian Rupees.

This oxford vaccine can be up to 90 percent effective.

What about Sputnik V shot?

On Tuesday, its makers said this vaccine is 95 percent effective and they will sell it at 10 dollars per shot.&nbsp;

This is a two-shot vaccine. So that means 20 dollars for two shots.

In India, makers of the Sputnik V have tied up with Dr Reddy's. A trial is underway in India.&nbsp;

Earlier this month Russian President Vladimir Putin said that India and China may produce the Sputnik V for the world.

There is another option....Covaxin, made by Bharat Biotech.

Reportedly, Covaxin could be at least 60 percent effective. And it could be rolled out by mid-2021. The vaccine is in its last phase of trials.

So there are multiple options for India to choose from. All that we have to do now is wait for these shots to clear the safety tests.

As the world inches closer to a vaccine that works, India is shaping its own strategy for a rollout to decide how will the vaccine be distributed. Because the world has its eyes on how India handles this.

As the world inches closer to a vaccine that works, India is shaping its own strategy for a rollout to decide how will the vaccine be distributed. Because the world has its eyes on how India handles this. This is for two reasons, India has a large population. Putting an end to the pandemic here will be a big victory in the fight against the Wuhan virus. And vaccines are being seen as the ultimate weapon to defeat this pandemic. India is one of the biggest exporters of vaccines. And the early batches will have limited supplies. India has the responsibility of making sure that a shot reaches every Indian... So, the world has an eye on what India's strategy could look like. We have an early idea of India's playbook. India could vaccinate at least 250 to 300 million citizens by july 2021. This could include about 30 million healthcare and frontline workers. For this, India could end up procuring 500 to 600 million vaccine doses. This is a massive undertaking. One that would require coordination at the level of the central government, the states and the districts. The most important question is, who will get these vaccines? This could be a list of priorities. Healthcare workers would come first. Then citizens above 65 years of age. Then people within the age bracket of 50 to 65. Followed by those who are below 50 years of age and suffering from ailments Reportedly, members of the police, paramilitary and those working in sanitisation could also get a shot on priority. If you are below 50 years and are healthy you'll be last in line to get a shot. The vaccines will be given out only after regulatory approvals. First, the manufacturers will have to move for permissions. They are likely to be allowed to supply the vaccines under emergency use authorisation. The vaccines will go to the health care workers first. At least initially these vaccines may not be available commercially. You may not be able to go to a pharmacy and buy this shot. This means if you are healthy you will have to wait a little while longer. India may not opt for the Pfizer vaccine. Reportedly, Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan has said it doesn't make sense for India to consider it yet. The vaccine hasn't been even given a license yet even by US Government. Pfizer is an American company. It has moved for emergency authorization in the US. Its vaccine is one of the frontrunners in the rollout. The company plans to distribute the vaccine by Mid-December worldwide. But there is a problem. This vaccine needs to be stored at minus 70-degree temperatures. Basically, in an ultra low-temperature freezer. Despite the hurdles Pfizer remains confident. "If times go as as they should, we believe that by mid-december, at the end of december, the vaccine may be authorised for use and that way it can begin to be used in the united states, but we are also doing the same submission in other agency regulators around the world, in Australia, in Japan, in the united kingdom, in the European economic community, with which we are convinced that before the end of the year the vaccine will be used not only in the united states but in various parts of the world," said Alejandro Cane, Pfizer's head of vaccines, medical and scientific affairs for Latin America and Canada. So, it seems like Pfizer will send its first vaccine consignments to the developed world. Which vaccine will India end up getting then? Reportedly, India has placed advanced orders for two vaccines. The Astrazeneca-Oxford shot and Sputnik V. The Oxford vaccine will be supplied via the Serum Institute of India. The company says it has already produced 40 million doses and by January they could have up to 100 million doses. The Serum Institute says it plans to sell each shot to the Indian Government for three dollars or 250 Indian Rupees. This oxford vaccine can be up to 90 percent effective. What about Sputnik V shot? On Tuesday, its makers said this vaccine is 95 percent effective and they will sell it at 10 dollars per shot. This is a two-shot vaccine. So that means 20 dollars for two shots. In India, makers of the Sputnik V have tied up with Dr Reddy's. A trial is underway in India. Earlier this month Russian President Vladimir Putin said that India and China may produce the Sputnik V for the world. There is another option....Covaxin, made by Bharat Biotech. Reportedly, Covaxin could be at least 60 percent effective. And it could be rolled out by mid-2021. The vaccine is in its last phase of trials. So there are multiple options for India to choose from. All that we have to do now is wait for these shots to clear the safety tests.

India shapes strategy for coronavirus vaccine rollout

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India, Vietnam to jointly train pilots, collaborate in shipbuilding

India-China standoff: How India is countering China's aggression with 'neighbourhood diplomacy'

India-China standoff: How India is countering China's aggression with 'neighbourhood diplomacy'

India’s NSA Ajit Doval visits Sri Lanka for Trilateral Security Meet

OIC meet takes place at India-built convention centre in Niger

Memorial plaque for Jewish victims of 26/11 Mumbai attacks unveiled at Israel synagogue

Three COVID-19 patients killed as fire breaks out at Rajkot hospital

NSA Ajit Doval arrives in Sri Lanka to attend 4th trilateral maritime meet

MiG-29K trainer aircraft crashes; one pilot rescued, search for other underway

Centre allows entry of farmers in Delhi, grants permission to conduct 'peaceful' agitation

Nepal occupies special place in our hearts, says FS Harsh V Shringla

All eyes on Q2 GDP data due today

Indian and Vietnamese defence ministers hold talks