Florida crash: Learjet debris tore through roof of home, landed in kitchen, more found at a man's workplace

Fairfax may tap IDBI bank’s excess capital to help fund ₹52,878 crore buyout

Ohio Senate seat JD Vance vacated for vice presidency flips to Democrats as Sherrod Brown defeats Husted

US midterms: Did Trump lose young voters, women and minorities? Here's how Americans voted

‘Dialled wrong number in season of dharna, go protest’: CJI’s quip on plea seeking rotation of SC-ST reserved seats

Who is Abdul El-Sayed’s wife Sarah Jukaku and what is her Indian connection?

US stocks rally as Dow surges 1,569 points after Democratic midterms sweep; biggest post-midterm gain in 44 years

Florida shooting: Two dead, including suspect, after gunfire at Citibank's Tampa-area complex

First handshake? Radio signal with all hallmarks of alien technology detected in China

Trump's 'best guy' Pete Hegseth on the chopping block? Why Republicans are now turning against him after midterms disaster

‘Iran handed Trump political defeat after strategic ones,’ says security chief Mohsen Rezaei

Ashwin shares reasons for Bhuvneshwar's struggle in NZ T20Is, says his 'chapter is maybe closed'

US Midterms 2026: Abdul El-Sayed wins Michigan race, becomes first Muslim American to be elected to US Senate

US Midterms 2026: Pooja Sethi defeats bigotry, makes history as first Hindu, Indian-American woman elected to Texas Legislature

US midterms: What went wrong for Trump? | Gravitas

‘You can call me Senator’: From Texas To Maine, watch Democrats celebrate historic 2026 midterm wins

US midterm elections: Donald Trump enters 'lame-duck presidency' era. What does it mean?

Iran exempts ships from India, China, Iraq, and Qatar from Strait of Hormuz restrictions

Keran Heritage Centre to give new impetus to border tourism in North Kashmir

NASA invites people to fly their names to Saturn's moon, Titan, aboard Dragonfly

Spate of similar deaths raises alarm over heart health in children

What's behind the wave of doctors and nurses winning congressional seats in the US midterms?

"That run-out by Rohit changed the momentum": Gill reflects on India's 5-wicket win in 1st ODI vs NZ

Mahadev app co-founder Ravi Uppal arrested in Dubai days after kingpin Sourabh Chandrakar’s extradition

'Habibi, there's a delicious irony': What the word Abdul El-Sayed used on JD Vance actually means | US Midterms 2026

Doomsday warning? Why governments are warning people to stockpile emergency supplies for 72 hours

Drugs on the ballot: Did American voters back marijuana legalisation in 2026 US midterms?

'I was one of his child victims': Former Miss Teen USA contestant Larissa Portnoff accuses Trump of sexual abuse in viral video | WATCH

Israel's Ra'am party backs Gadi Eisenkot to lead next government after meeting with Herzog

US midterm elections: Major Republican upsets, historic firsts and an unexpected India connection | Gravitas

Indian Army marks Battle of Shalateng Day with veterans’ rally, educational outreach at Sharifabad

US Midterms: After Senate, House win, can Democrats force Trump to stop Iran war? Answer may surprise you

From Texas to South Carolina: How Democrats stormed Republican strongholds to redraw America's political map in US midterms 2026

A survey of nearly 20,000 people in 17 Asian countries titled “Global Corruption Barometer for Asia” recently measured corruption and the degree of bribery in Asian countries.&nbsp;In India alone, 89 per cent respondents said that government corruption remains a big problem. This included bribes for the use of personal connections, sextortion, vote-buying.

The latest Barometer results shed light on the patterns of corruption across Asia and people’s awareness. Turns out, 74 per cent of the 20,000 participants were well aware of the corruption in their country and referred to the corrupt elements in their governments as a big problem.

Additionally, one out of every five claimed to have bribed officials in the last 12 months to use public services.

Key takeaways from the survey

Nearly one out of three people believed that majority or all members of their country’s parliaments are corrupt.

In terms of elections, one in seven people offered bribes in exchange of voters. At least 62 per cent of the surveyed people claimed that ordinary people can make a difference in the fight against corruption.

Country wise degree of bribery

India topped the list of countries where bribery is rampant with 39 per cent respondents in India claimed to have paid public officials to access services in the last 12 months.&nbsp;

Trailing closely is Cambodia with 37 per cent, Indonesia at 30 per cent, South Korea with 10 per cent, Japan and the Maldives at 2 per cent.

Personal connections for personal gains

In terms of people using personal connections to get their way for public services, India topped the list too, with 46 per cent Indian respondents saying that they had to use personal connections to get things done in the last 12 months.

This was followed closely by Indonesia at 36 per cent, and China at 32 per cent.

Corruption by institution 
 
Nearly 32 per cent respondents claimed that members of parliament and senators are corrupt, while 30 per cent claimed that local government officials are corrupt. 26 per cent people said that the presidents or the prime ministers office is corrupt, while only 14 per cent said that religious leaders are corrupt.

When asked if the corruption levels have changed in the last 12 months, 47 per cent respondents claimed that it has increased, while 27 per cent said that it had decreased. 23 per cent respondents claimed that it remained unchanged.

Check out the survey <a href="https://www.transparency.org/en/gcb/asia/asia-2020/press-and-downloads#">here</a>

A survey of nearly 20,000 people in 17 Asian countries titled “Global Corruption Barometer for Asia” recently measured corruption and the degree of bribery in Asian countries.

A survey of nearly 20,000 people in 17 Asian countries titled “Global Corruption Barometer for Asia” recently measured corruption and the degree of bribery in Asian countries. In India alone, 89 per cent respondents said that government corruption remains a big problem. This included bribes for the use of personal connections, sextortion, vote-buying. The latest Barometer results shed light on the patterns of corruption across Asia and people’s awareness. Turns out, 74 per cent of the 20,000 participants were well aware of the corruption in their country and referred to the corrupt elements in their governments as a big problem. Additionally, one out of every five claimed to have bribed officials in the last 12 months to use public services. Key takeaways from the survey Nearly one out of three people believed that majority or all members of their country’s parliaments are corrupt. In terms of elections, one in seven people offered bribes in exchange of voters. At least 62 per cent of the surveyed people claimed that ordinary people can make a difference in the fight against corruption. Country wise degree of bribery India topped the list of countries where bribery is rampant with 39 per cent respondents in India claimed to have paid public officials to access services in the last 12 months. Trailing closely is Cambodia with 37 per cent, Indonesia at 30 per cent, South Korea with 10 per cent, Japan and the Maldives at 2 per cent. Personal connections for personal gains In terms of people using personal connections to get their way for public services, India topped the list too, with 46 per cent Indian respondents saying that they had to use personal connections to get things done in the last 12 months. This was followed closely by Indonesia at 36 per cent, and China at 32 per cent. Corruption by institution Nearly 32 per cent respondents claimed that members of parliament and senators are corrupt, while 30 per cent claimed that local government officials are corrupt. 26 per cent people said that the presidents or the prime ministers office is corrupt, while only 14 per cent said that religious leaders are corrupt. When asked if the corruption levels have changed in the last 12 months, 47 per cent respondents claimed that it has increased, while 27 per cent said that it had decreased. 23 per cent respondents claimed that it remained unchanged. Check out the survey here

39% Indians bribed their way around public services, reveals new comprehensive survey

India on Tuesday test-fired the land-attack version of the BrahMos cruise missile near the Andaman and Nicobar Islands in the Indian Ocean.

This test of the supersonic missile, reports say, is the first of the many likely to take place over the next few days or weeks.

The supersonic cruise missile was test-fired at 10 AM today and it successfully hit its target, which was on another island.

"The test was conducted by the Indian Army which has many regiments of the DRDO-developed Missile system. The strike range of BrahMos missile has now been enhanced to over 400 km," sources said.

The BrahMos supersonic cruise missile is the world's fastest operational system in its class and recently DRDO has extended the range of the missile system from the existing 298 km to around 450 km.

In the last two months, DRDO has been successful in testing both new and existing missile systems including the Shaurya missile system which can hit targets at over 800 km and technology demonstration vehicles for hypersonic missile technology.

Last month, the Indian Navy had also carried out the test firing of the BrahMos missile from its warship INS Chennai to showcase its capability to strike targets at ranges more than 400 km in high seas.

India is also working on finding export markets for the supersonic cruise missile which has been indigenised to a large extent by the DRDO under its project PJ 10.

After the launch of the joint venture between India and Russia in the late 90s, the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile has become a potent weapon for all three armed forces.

(With inputs from agencies)

India on Tuesday test-fired the land-attack version of the BrahMos cruise missile near the Andaman and Nicobar Islands in the Indian Ocean. This test of the supersonic missile, reports say, is the first of the many likely to take place over the next few days or weeks.

India on Tuesday test-fired the land-attack version of the BrahMos cruise missile near the Andaman and Nicobar Islands in the Indian Ocean. This test of the supersonic missile, reports say, is the first of the many likely to take place over the next few days or weeks. The supersonic cruise missile was test-fired at 10 AM today and it successfully hit its target, which was on another island. "The test was conducted by the Indian Army which has many regiments of the DRDO-developed Missile system. The strike range of BrahMos missile has now been enhanced to over 400 km," sources said. The BrahMos supersonic cruise missile is the world's fastest operational system in its class and recently DRDO has extended the range of the missile system from the existing 298 km to around 450 km. In the last two months, DRDO has been successful in testing both new and existing missile systems including the Shaurya missile system which can hit targets at over 800 km and technology demonstration vehicles for hypersonic missile technology. Last month, the Indian Navy had also carried out the test firing of the BrahMos missile from its warship INS Chennai to showcase its capability to strike targets at ranges more than 400 km in high seas. India is also working on finding export markets for the supersonic cruise missile which has been indigenised to a large extent by the DRDO under its project PJ 10. After the launch of the joint venture between India and Russia in the late 90s, the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile has become a potent weapon for all three armed forces. (With inputs from agencies)

India successfully test-fires land-attack version of BrahMos supersonic cruise missile

In a virtual conference, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday interacted with the chief ministers of the eight states where COVID-19 have seen a sudden rise post the festive season.

During the first leg of this PM-CM meeting, he took stock of the Covid-19 situation in these states.

Maharashtra, Kerala, Delhi, West Bengal, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, Haryana and Gujarat are the 8 states that are plagued with rising Covid cases as India intensifies its fight against the pandemic.

In the first leg of the meeting, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal blamed the sudden spike on pollution.

He said though the national capital saw a sudden spike of 8,600 cases on November 10, the positivity rate has been steadily decreasing since.

He urged for an additional 1,000 ICU beds in central government hospitals till the third wave lasts.

A presentation was made during the meeting which said the national capital has seen an average 111 deaths in the last one week. Maharashtra`s average death was found to be 93 in the last one week. Rajasthan`s positivity rate was found to be 21 per cent in last week which was very high.

Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, Maharashtra`s Udhhav Thackeray, Rajasthan`s Ashok Gehlot, Gujarat`s Vijay Rupani were also in attendance.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Health Minister Harsh Vardhan were also present during the meeting as were V.K. Paul of the Niti Aayog, the Cabinet Secretary and the Union Health Secretary.

During the meeting, Banerjee claimed that the state`s performance on Covid was affected due to the international border it shares with other countries.

She also raised the issue of the GST dues that the Centre owes it.

Ahead of the meeting, the Rajasthan government had hiked fine to Rs 500 for those who were not adhering to wearing of masks. It was mentioned during the PM-CM meeting as well, by the state.

Shah cited examples of the US and Europe to urge states to exercise caution.

He advised the eight states -- in the Covid Red Zone -- to stringently ensure that all wear masks while in public places and maintain physical distancing, besides the high level of hygiene.

The Union Health Secretary said that the Covid situation in four states particularly -- Delhi, Kerala, Rajasthan and Maharashtra needs careful monitoring in the days to come.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a virtual conference, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday interacted with the chief ministers of the eight states where COVID-19 have seen a sudden rise post the festive season.

In a virtual conference, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday interacted with the chief ministers of the eight states where COVID-19 have seen a sudden rise post the festive season. During the first leg of this PM-CM meeting, he took stock of the Covid-19 situation in these states. Maharashtra, Kerala, Delhi, West Bengal, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, Haryana and Gujarat are the 8 states that are plagued with rising Covid cases as India intensifies its fight against the pandemic. In the first leg of the meeting, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal blamed the sudden spike on pollution. He said though the national capital saw a sudden spike of 8,600 cases on November 10, the positivity rate has been steadily decreasing since. He urged for an additional 1,000 ICU beds in central government hospitals till the third wave lasts. A presentation was made during the meeting which said the national capital has seen an average 111 deaths in the last one week. Maharashtra`s average death was found to be 93 in the last one week. Rajasthan`s positivity rate was found to be 21 per cent in last week which was very high. Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, Maharashtra`s Udhhav Thackeray, Rajasthan`s Ashok Gehlot, Gujarat`s Vijay Rupani were also in attendance. Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Health Minister Harsh Vardhan were also present during the meeting as were V.K. Paul of the Niti Aayog, the Cabinet Secretary and the Union Health Secretary. During the meeting, Banerjee claimed that the state`s performance on Covid was affected due to the international border it shares with other countries. She also raised the issue of the GST dues that the Centre owes it. Ahead of the meeting, the Rajasthan government had hiked fine to Rs 500 for those who were not adhering to wearing of masks. It was mentioned during the PM-CM meeting as well, by the state. Shah cited examples of the US and Europe to urge states to exercise caution. He advised the eight states -- in the Covid Red Zone -- to stringently ensure that all wear masks while in public places and maintain physical distancing, besides the high level of hygiene. The Union Health Secretary said that the Covid situation in four states particularly -- Delhi, Kerala, Rajasthan and Maharashtra needs careful monitoring in the days to come. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi meets CMs: Kejriwal blames Covid spike on pollution, Mamata demands GST dues 

As Coastal areas of Tamil Nadu is bracing for a heavy downpour and strong winds due to Cyclone Nivar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday spoke to the Chief Ministers of Tamil Nadu and Puducherry ahead of the impending cyclone that is going to cross into the state and UT by Wednesday.

"Spoke to Tamil Nadu CM Shri Edappadi K. Palaniswami and Puducherry CM Shri V Narayanasami regarding the situation in the wake of Cyclone Nivar. Assured all possible support from the Centre. I pray for the safety and well-being of those living in the affected areas," the PM tweeted.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Spoke to Tamil Nadu CM Shri <a href="https://twitter.com/EPSTamilNadu?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EPSTamilNadu</a> and Puducherry CM Shri <a href="https://twitter.com/VNarayanasami?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@VNarayanasami</a> regarding the situation in the wake of Cyclone Nivar. Assured all possible support from the Centre. I pray for the safety and well-being of those living in the affected areas.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1331105291715407872?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

A deep depression over southwest Bay of Bengal has intensified into cyclonic storm Nivar and lay centred about 410 km East-southeast of Puducherry and 450 km southeast of Chennai, said the India Meteorological Department.

According to the weather department, over the next 24 hours it is likely to intensify further into a severe cyclonic storm and cross Tamil Nadu and Puducherry coasts between Karaikal and Mamallapuram around Wednesday 8 p.m. as a Severe Cyclonic Storm with a wind speed of 100-110 kmph gusting to 120 kmph.

Squally weather with wind speed reaching 80-90 kmph gusting to 100 kmph is likely to prevail over Southwest Bay of Bengal and along &amp; off Tamil Nadu, Puducherry coast on Tuesday.

(With inputs from agencies)

As Coastal areas of Tamil Nadu is bracing for a heavy downpour and strong winds due to Cyclone Nivar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday spoke to the Chief Ministers of Tamil Nadu and Puducherry ahead of the impending cyclone that is going to cross into the state and UT by Wednesday.

As Coastal areas of Tamil Nadu is bracing for a heavy downpour and strong winds due to Cyclone Nivar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday spoke to the Chief Ministers of Tamil Nadu and Puducherry ahead of the impending cyclone that is going to cross into the state and UT by Wednesday. "Spoke to Tamil Nadu CM Shri Edappadi K. Palaniswami and Puducherry CM Shri V Narayanasami regarding the situation in the wake of Cyclone Nivar. Assured all possible support from the Centre. I pray for the safety and well-being of those living in the affected areas," the PM tweeted. Spoke to Tamil Nadu CM Shri @EPSTamilNadu and Puducherry CM Shri @VNarayanasami regarding the situation in the wake of Cyclone Nivar. Assured all possible support from the Centre. I pray for the safety and well-being of those living in the affected areas. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 24, 2020 × A deep depression over southwest Bay of Bengal has intensified into cyclonic storm Nivar and lay centred about 410 km East-southeast of Puducherry and 450 km southeast of Chennai, said the India Meteorological Department. According to the weather department, over the next 24 hours it is likely to intensify further into a severe cyclonic storm and cross Tamil Nadu and Puducherry coasts between Karaikal and Mamallapuram around Wednesday 8 p.m. as a Severe Cyclonic Storm with a wind speed of 100-110 kmph gusting to 120 kmph. Squally weather with wind speed reaching 80-90 kmph gusting to 100 kmph is likely to prevail over Southwest Bay of Bengal and along & off Tamil Nadu, Puducherry coast on Tuesday. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi assures support to Tamil Nadu, Puducherry as Cyclone Nivar nears

With an outreach to new leadership in Seychelles, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will be in the Indian ocean country from 27th to 28th November.&nbsp;Last month, the country elected a new President Wavel Ramkalawan. Wavel is of Indian origin, with his grandfather being from Bihar.

A statement from the ministry of external affairs said, "EAM will call-on the newly elected President of Seychelles H.E. Mr. Wavel Ramkalawan to present greetings of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and discuss with him the priorities of the new Government and avenues for further strengthening India-Seychelles bilateral relations."

The External Affairs Ministery&nbsp;will also hold bilateral consultations with the newly appointed counterpart, Minister for Foreign Affairs Sylvestre Radegonde.&nbsp;

Amid&nbsp;the COVID-19 pandemic, under mission Sagar 1, India had sent aid to Seychelles.&nbsp;Its also engaged in building a number of infrastructure projects in the country. These include&nbsp;the Attorney General’s Office, Secretariat building, Police Headquarters, and a State of the art Convention Centre for Seychelles.

With an outreach to new leadership in Seychelles, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will be in the Indian ocean country from 27th to 28th November. Last month, the country elected a new President Wavel Ramkalawan.

With an outreach to new leadership in Seychelles, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will be in the Indian ocean country from 27th to 28th November. Last month, the country elected a new President Wavel Ramkalawan. Wavel is of Indian origin, with his grandfather being from Bihar. A statement from the ministry of external affairs said, "EAM will call-on the newly elected President of Seychelles H.E. Mr. Wavel Ramkalawan to present greetings of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and discuss with him the priorities of the new Government and avenues for further strengthening India-Seychelles bilateral relations." The External Affairs Ministery will also hold bilateral consultations with the newly appointed counterpart, Minister for Foreign Affairs Sylvestre Radegonde. Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, under mission Sagar 1, India had sent aid to Seychelles. Its also engaged in building a number of infrastructure projects in the country. These include the Attorney General’s Office, Secretariat building, Police Headquarters, and a State of the art Convention Centre for Seychelles.

India reaches out to the new leadership of Seychelles with EAM's visit

India has said that the final trails of indigenous vaccine could end in another 2 months. Covaxin, the vaccine candidate developed by Bharat Biotech India Limited (BBIL) in collaboration with Indian ICMR, has received approvals from DCGI's. Expert Committee has given the approval of the final and Phase III clinical trials.

India plans to vaccinate over 200 million people by July 2021

The Serum Institute of India, the world`s largest manufacturer of vaccines by volume, will first focus on supplying AstraZeneca Plc`s COVID-19 vaccine to Indians before distributing it to other countries, Serum`s Chief Executive Adar Poonawalla said on Monday. 
 
"It`s very important we take care of our country first, then go on to COVAX after that and then other bilateral deals with countries. So I`ve kept it in that priority," said Poonawalla, referencing the global COVAX facility, which has been set up to provide COVID-19 vaccines to poorer countries. 
 
The company remains in discussion with the Indian government about inking a purchase agreement for the vaccine, Poonawalla said in an interview with CNBC-TV 18, adding that Serum should have quantities of it ready to sell into India`s private market in the first quarter of 2021. 
 
Poonawalla`s comments came shortly after AstraZeneca said on Monday its vaccine could be around 90% effective, giving the world`s fight against the pandemic a new weapon, cheaper to make, easier to distribute and faster to scale up than rivals. 
 
Serum is hoping the data released earlier on Monday, along with preliminary data from the ongoing trial of the vaccine in India, will allow it to seek emergency use authorisation for the vaccine by year-end, before gaining approval for a full rollout by February or March next year, said Poonawalla. 
 
He said the vaccine in the Indian private market would be priced at 1,000 rupees per dose ($13.50), but that governments signing large supply deals would likely buy it at lower prices. 
 
Poonawalla also said that although Serum has the right to strike direct bilateral deals with more than five dozen nations, on the basis of its licensing deal with AstraZeneca, the company may include the government in some of these discussions. 
 
Poonawalla said the company will be able to produce 400 million doses of AstraZeneca`s vaccine by July 2021 and scale up further from there.

The Serum Institute of India, the world`s largest manufacturer of vaccines by volume, will first focus on supplying AstraZeneca Plc`s COVID-19 vaccine to Indians before distributing it to other countries, Serum`s Chief Executive Adar Poonawalla said on Monday.

The Serum Institute of India, the world`s largest manufacturer of vaccines by volume, will first focus on supplying AstraZeneca Plc`s COVID-19 vaccine to Indians before distributing it to other countries, Serum`s Chief Executive Adar Poonawalla said on Monday. "It`s very important we take care of our country first, then go on to COVAX after that and then other bilateral deals with countries. So I`ve kept it in that priority," said Poonawalla, referencing the global COVAX facility, which has been set up to provide COVID-19 vaccines to poorer countries. The company remains in discussion with the Indian government about inking a purchase agreement for the vaccine, Poonawalla said in an interview with CNBC-TV 18, adding that Serum should have quantities of it ready to sell into India`s private market in the first quarter of 2021. Poonawalla`s comments came shortly after AstraZeneca said on Monday its vaccine could be around 90% effective, giving the world`s fight against the pandemic a new weapon, cheaper to make, easier to distribute and faster to scale up than rivals. Serum is hoping the data released earlier on Monday, along with preliminary data from the ongoing trial of the vaccine in India, will allow it to seek emergency use authorisation for the vaccine by year-end, before gaining approval for a full rollout by February or March next year, said Poonawalla. He said the vaccine in the Indian private market would be priced at 1,000 rupees per dose ($13.50), but that governments signing large supply deals would likely buy it at lower prices. Poonawalla also said that although Serum has the right to strike direct bilateral deals with more than five dozen nations, on the basis of its licensing deal with AstraZeneca, the company may include the government in some of these discussions. Poonawalla said the company will be able to produce 400 million doses of AstraZeneca`s vaccine by July 2021 and scale up further from there.

Serum Institute to focus on supplying COVID-19 vaccine to India first

The former chief minister of the northeastern state of Assam Tarun Gogoi died on Monday due to post coronavirus complications.&nbsp;

Earlier in the day, doctors treating him said that his health has deteriorated and is now "very critical".&nbsp;

The death of three-times CM was confirmed by Assam Health Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma.

He was survived by wife Dolly, daughter Chandrima and son Gaurav.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his "anguish" on Gogoi's death and called him a "popular leader and a veteran administrator".&nbsp;

"Tarun Gogoi was a popular leader and a veteran administrator, who had years of political experience in Assam as well as the Centre. Anguished by his passing away. My thoughts are with his family and supporters in this hour of sadness," the Indian prime minister said on Twitter.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Shri Tarun Gogoi Ji was a popular leader and a veteran administrator, who had years of political experience in Assam as well as the Centre. Anguished by his passing away. My thoughts are with his family and supporters in this hour of sadness. Om Shanti. <a href="https://t.co/H6F6RGYyT4">pic.twitter.com/H6F6RGYyT4</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1330854740410830848?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 23, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

President Ram Nath Kovind and Home Minister Amit Shah also paid their tributes to the former chief minister.&nbsp;

"Extremely sad to know of the demise of Shri Tarun Gogoi, former Chief Minister of Assam. The country has lost a veteran leader with rich political and administrative experience. His long tenure in office was a period of epochal change in Assam," Kovind wrote on Twitter.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Extremely sad to know of the demise of Shri Tarun Gogoi, former Chief Minister of Assam. The country has lost a veteran leader with rich political and administrative experience. His long tenure in office was a period of epochal change in Assam.
— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) <a href="https://twitter.com/rashtrapatibhvn/status/1330855960223485953?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 23, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Anguished to learn about the passing away of veteran leader and former Chief Minister of Assam, Shri Tarun Gogoi ji. May almighty give his family the strength to bear this tragic loss. My condolences with his family and followers. Om Shanti Shanti Shanti.
— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) <a href="https://twitter.com/AmitShah/status/1330860430575562752?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 23, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Assam CM Sarbanda Sonowal described his political rival as "people's leader", saying he had a "great contribution in Assam's political and public sphere".

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Tarun Gogoi was a people's leader who had great contribution in Assam's political and public sphere. Even though we were in Opposition parties, we shared a wonderful rapport and he was a guiding figure. My deepest condolences to his family and well-wishers. <a href="https://twitter.com/GauravGogoiAsm?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GauravGogoiAsm</a> <a href="https://t.co/5x41EFwyuy">pic.twitter.com/5x41EFwyuy</a>
— Sarbananda Sonowal (@sarbanandsonwal) <a href="https://twitter.com/sarbanandsonwal/status/1330859279235026947?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 23, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The former CM was hospitalised after he contracted Covid-19 on August 26 and his health first declined on November 21 due to multi-organ failure.&nbsp;

He was under invasive ventilation and given dialysis also.&nbsp;

The former chief minister of the northeastern state of Assam Tarun Gogoi died on Monday due to post coronavirus complications. Earlier in the day, doctors treating him said that his health has deteriorated and is now "very critical".

The former chief minister of the northeastern state of Assam Tarun Gogoi died on Monday due to post coronavirus complications. Earlier in the day, doctors treating him said that his health has deteriorated and is now "very critical". The death of three-times CM was confirmed by Assam Health Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. He was survived by wife Dolly, daughter Chandrima and son Gaurav. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his "anguish" on Gogoi's death and called him a "popular leader and a veteran administrator". "Tarun Gogoi was a popular leader and a veteran administrator, who had years of political experience in Assam as well as the Centre. Anguished by his passing away. My thoughts are with his family and supporters in this hour of sadness," the Indian prime minister said on Twitter. Shri Tarun Gogoi Ji was a popular leader and a veteran administrator, who had years of political experience in Assam as well as the Centre. Anguished by his passing away. My thoughts are with his family and supporters in this hour of sadness. Om Shanti. pic.twitter.com/H6F6RGYyT4 — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 23, 2020 × President Ram Nath Kovind and Home Minister Amit Shah also paid their tributes to the former chief minister. "Extremely sad to know of the demise of Shri Tarun Gogoi, former Chief Minister of Assam. The country has lost a veteran leader with rich political and administrative experience. His long tenure in office was a period of epochal change in Assam," Kovind wrote on Twitter. Extremely sad to know of the demise of Shri Tarun Gogoi, former Chief Minister of Assam. The country has lost a veteran leader with rich political and administrative experience. His long tenure in office was a period of epochal change in Assam. — President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) November 23, 2020 × Anguished to learn about the passing away of veteran leader and former Chief Minister of Assam, Shri Tarun Gogoi ji. May almighty give his family the strength to bear this tragic loss. My condolences with his family and followers. Om Shanti Shanti Shanti. — Amit Shah (@AmitShah) November 23, 2020 × Assam CM Sarbanda Sonowal described his political rival as "people's leader", saying he had a "great contribution in Assam's political and public sphere". Tarun Gogoi was a people's leader who had great contribution in Assam's political and public sphere. Even though we were in Opposition parties, we shared a wonderful rapport and he was a guiding figure. My deepest condolences to his family and well-wishers. @GauravGogoiAsm pic.twitter.com/5x41EFwyuy — Sarbananda Sonowal (@sarbanandsonwal) November 23, 2020 × The former CM was hospitalised after he contracted Covid-19 on August 26 and his health first declined on November 21 due to multi-organ failure. He was under invasive ventilation and given dialysis also.

Three-time former Assam CM Tarun Gogoi dies

India has started sharing with the international community the evidence of Pakistan's involvement in the Nagrota terror attack. India's foreign secretary Harsh Shringla briefed the first set of foreign envoys of Pakistan's involvement in the Nagrota terror attack, giving them detailed evidence of how Islamabad continues to support cross border terror.

Envoys of the US, Russia, France, Japan, and some more envoys were briefed by Foreign Secretary Harsh Shringla on Monday evening, with more such briefings being planned on Tuesday. The Chinese envoy was not briefed in the first set of briefing on Monday.

Sources told WION, FS informed them of the details of the preliminary investigations which showed how 4 terrorists of United Nation listed terrorist Jaish-e- Mohammad had planned to do a major terror attack.

The terrorists were neutralised at a toll plaza on Jammu--Srinagar national highway in the Nagrota area of Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir last week. Pakistan's involvement in the incident has emerged, especially in the supply of phones, the list of items, and ammunition indicating origins from across the line of control.

The phones recovered from the slain terrorists have been manufactured by a Pakistani company. In fact, investigators have found terrorists got into India through an underground tunnel in the Samba sector.

The incident occurred just ahead of the District development council elections in the union territory, the first since the removal of special status under article 370. The Indian side, sources pointed out, sensitized about Pakistan's sustained effort to destabilize Jammu and Kashmir and subvert the election process.

Jaish has been involved in previous attacks in India, including the Pulwama terror attack of 2019 in which India lost 40 paramilitary soldiers.

Over the weekend, India had summoned Pakistan's top diplomat in Delhi and raised the matter with him. A release by the ministry of external affairs said, India "demanded that Pakistan desists from its policy of supporting terrorists and terror groups operating from its territory and dismantle the terror infrastructure operated by terrorist outfits to launch attacks in other countries."

India has started sharing with the international community the evidence of Pakistan's involvement in the Nagrota terror attack. India's foreign secretary Harsh Shringla briefed the first set of foreign envoys of Pakistan's involvement in the Nagrota terror attack, giving them detailed evidence of how Islamabad continues to support cross border terror.

India has started sharing with the international community the evidence of Pakistan's involvement in the Nagrota terror attack. India's foreign secretary Harsh Shringla briefed the first set of foreign envoys of Pakistan's involvement in the Nagrota terror attack, giving them detailed evidence of how Islamabad continues to support cross border terror. Envoys of the US, Russia, France, Japan, and some more envoys were briefed by Foreign Secretary Harsh Shringla on Monday evening, with more such briefings being planned on Tuesday. The Chinese envoy was not briefed in the first set of briefing on Monday. Sources told WION, FS informed them of the details of the preliminary investigations which showed how 4 terrorists of United Nation listed terrorist Jaish-e- Mohammad had planned to do a major terror attack. The terrorists were neutralised at a toll plaza on Jammu--Srinagar national highway in the Nagrota area of Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir last week. Pakistan's involvement in the incident has emerged, especially in the supply of phones, the list of items, and ammunition indicating origins from across the line of control. The phones recovered from the slain terrorists have been manufactured by a Pakistani company. In fact, investigators have found terrorists got into India through an underground tunnel in the Samba sector. The incident occurred just ahead of the District development council elections in the union territory, the first since the removal of special status under article 370. The Indian side, sources pointed out, sensitized about Pakistan's sustained effort to destabilize Jammu and Kashmir and subvert the election process. Jaish has been involved in previous attacks in India, including the Pulwama terror attack of 2019 in which India lost 40 paramilitary soldiers. Over the weekend, India had summoned Pakistan's top diplomat in Delhi and raised the matter with him. A release by the ministry of external affairs said, India "demanded that Pakistan desists from its policy of supporting terrorists and terror groups operating from its territory and dismantle the terror infrastructure operated by terrorist outfits to launch attacks in other countries."

India shares evidence of Pak's involvement in Nagrota attack with international community

The great-grandson of Mahatma Gandhi and South African community activist Satish Dhupelia has died of COVID-19 complications in Johannesburg, his family confirmed on Sunday.&nbsp;

Satish Dhupelia's sister Uma Dhupelia-Mesthrie confirmed that her brother had died of COVID-19 related complications after he contracted the disease in the hospital where he had been under treatment for a month due to pneumonia.

"My beloved brother has passed on after a month of illness with pneumonia, a superbug contracted in hospital and then COVID-19 also contracted while he was being treated. He suffered a major cardiac arrest this evening," Ms Uma said in a social media post.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="fb-post" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/uma.dhupeliamesthrie/posts/10218638673303636" data-show-text="true" data-width="">
<blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/uma.dhupeliamesthrie/posts/10218638673303636" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore">
A one page tribute to a big life and a big heart Satish Dhupelia was born on 19 November 1954, the son of Shashikant...
Posted by <a href="https://www.facebook.com/uma.dhupeliamesthrie">Uma Dhupelia-Mesthrie</a> on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/uma.dhupeliamesthrie/posts/10218638673303636">Sunday, 22 November 2020</a></blockquote>
</div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Besides Ms Uma, Mr Dhupelia leaves back another sister, Kirti Menon, who lives in Johannesburg, where she is active in various projects honouring the memory of Gandhi.

The three siblings are descendants of Manilal Gandhi, who Mahatma Gandhi left behind in South Africa to continue his work after he returned to India after spending two decades.

Mr Dhupelia, who spent most of his life in media, especially as a videographer and photographer, was also very active in assisting the Gandhi Development Trust to continue the work started by the Mahatma at the Phoenix Settlement near Durban.

He was renowned for assisting the needy in all communities and was active in a number of social welfare organisations.

Tributes poured in from his friends and dear ones.

"I am in shock. Satish was a great humanitarian and activist," Political analyst Lubna Nadvi said.

"He was also a great friend of the Advice Desk for Abused Women, and always assisted the organisation in whichever way he could," Nadvi added.

Mr Dhupelia was also a member of the Board of the 1860 Heritage Foundation, which on Monday, November 16 commemorated the arrival of the first indentured labourers from India to work on the sugar cane fields of Durban.

(With inputs from agencies)

The great-grandson of Mahatma Gandhi and South African community activist Satish Dhupelia has died of COVID-19 complications in Johannesburg, his family confirmed on Sunday.

The great-grandson of Mahatma Gandhi and South African community activist Satish Dhupelia has died of COVID-19 complications in Johannesburg, his family confirmed on Sunday. Satish Dhupelia's sister Uma Dhupelia-Mesthrie confirmed that her brother had died of COVID-19 related complications after he contracted the disease in the hospital where he had been under treatment for a month due to pneumonia. "My beloved brother has passed on after a month of illness with pneumonia, a superbug contracted in hospital and then COVID-19 also contracted while he was being treated. He suffered a major cardiac arrest this evening," Ms Uma said in a social media post. A one page tribute to a big life and a big heart Satish Dhupelia was born on 19 November 1954, the son of Shashikant... Posted by Uma Dhupelia-Mesthrie on Sunday, 22 November 2020 × Besides Ms Uma, Mr Dhupelia leaves back another sister, Kirti Menon, who lives in Johannesburg, where she is active in various projects honouring the memory of Gandhi. The three siblings are descendants of Manilal Gandhi, who Mahatma Gandhi left behind in South Africa to continue his work after he returned to India after spending two decades. Mr Dhupelia, who spent most of his life in media, especially as a videographer and photographer, was also very active in assisting the Gandhi Development Trust to continue the work started by the Mahatma at the Phoenix Settlement near Durban. He was renowned for assisting the needy in all communities and was active in a number of social welfare organisations. Tributes poured in from his friends and dear ones. "I am in shock. Satish was a great humanitarian and activist," Political analyst Lubna Nadvi said. "He was also a great friend of the Advice Desk for Abused Women, and always assisted the organisation in whichever way he could," Nadvi added. Mr Dhupelia was also a member of the Board of the 1860 Heritage Foundation, which on Monday, November 16 commemorated the arrival of the first indentured labourers from India to work on the sugar cane fields of Durban. (With inputs from agencies)

Mahatma Gandhi's great-grandson Satish Dhupelia dies of Covid-19

Following the cyclone warning issued by the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), twelve teams of the National Disaster Response Force have been deployed across the North and Central Coastal districts of Tamil Nadu.&nbsp;Six teams are stationed in Cuddalore, two in Puducherry, one in Karaikal, besides two teams on standby in Chennai and one in Madurai, as the region braces for heavy rains.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/india-news/amid-monsoon-water-levels-in-reservoirs-around-chennai-over-half-capacity-343464" hreflang="en">Amid monsoon, water levels in reservoirs around Chennai over half capacity&nbsp;</a>

Currently, the low pressure trough(depression) lay 520kms South East of Chennai. The weather formation is expected to develop into a cyclonic storm by Monday night and further into a severe cyclone by Tuesday, according to the Regional Meteorological Center, Chennai. The department added that the Cyclone was likely to make landfall between Karaikal and Mamallapuram, near Chennai on Wednesday, 25h November.&nbsp;

Heavy rains have been predicted across the Northern, delta districts of Tamil Nadu and Puducherry. Wind speeds of 65kmph and rough waters with waves two meters higher than usual are forecast for the coastal areas over the next two days and fishermen have been advised not to venture out to the seas until Wednesday. Gusts of upto 120kmph are predicted at the time of the cyclone making landfall.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/india-news/one-third-of-chennais-population-has-covid-19-antibodies-serosurvey-337077" hreflang="en">One-third of Chennai's population has Covid-19 antibodies: Serosurvey</a>

On Monday, Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami held a meeting&nbsp;at the secretariat regarding the cyclone preparedness. The State Government said that requisite alerts have been issued to district officials and that the inspection of water bodies was being carried out, besides ensuring measures to evacuate people in low-lying areas and accommodate them in relief camps, in accordance with Covid-19 protocols.&nbsp;According to the Government, multi-disciplinary teams have been formed at the local levels to coordinate efforts and mitigation measures.

TN Govt has announced that bus transport within and between seven districts will be suspended from 1pm on Tuesday, 24th November, until further notice, in view of the cyclone. The seven districts are Pudukkottai, Nagapattinam, Thanjavur, Tiruvarur, Cuddalore, Villupuram and Chengalpattu.&nbsp;

Those using private vehicles are being advised to travel only if necessary and people in coastal districts are advised to stay indoors in view of the prediction of heavy rainfall and gusty winds.&nbsp;

Following the cyclone warning issued by the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), twelve teams of the National Disaster Response Force have been deployed across the North and Central Coastal districts of Tamil Nadu.

Following the cyclone warning issued by the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), twelve teams of the National Disaster Response Force have been deployed across the North and Central Coastal districts of Tamil Nadu. Six teams are stationed in Cuddalore, two in Puducherry, one in Karaikal, besides two teams on standby in Chennai and one in Madurai, as the region braces for heavy rains. Also read: Amid monsoon, water levels in reservoirs around Chennai over half capacity Currently, the low pressure trough(depression) lay 520kms South East of Chennai. The weather formation is expected to develop into a cyclonic storm by Monday night and further into a severe cyclone by Tuesday, according to the Regional Meteorological Center, Chennai. The department added that the Cyclone was likely to make landfall between Karaikal and Mamallapuram, near Chennai on Wednesday, 25h November. Heavy rains have been predicted across the Northern, delta districts of Tamil Nadu and Puducherry. Wind speeds of 65kmph and rough waters with waves two meters higher than usual are forecast for the coastal areas over the next two days and fishermen have been advised not to venture out to the seas until Wednesday. Gusts of upto 120kmph are predicted at the time of the cyclone making landfall. Also read: One-third of Chennai's population has Covid-19 antibodies: Serosurvey On Monday, Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami held a meeting at the secretariat regarding the cyclone preparedness. The State Government said that requisite alerts have been issued to district officials and that the inspection of water bodies was being carried out, besides ensuring measures to evacuate people in low-lying areas and accommodate them in relief camps, in accordance with Covid-19 protocols. According to the Government, multi-disciplinary teams have been formed at the local levels to coordinate efforts and mitigation measures. TN Govt has announced that bus transport within and between seven districts will be suspended from 1pm on Tuesday, 24th November, until further notice, in view of the cyclone. The seven districts are Pudukkottai, Nagapattinam, Thanjavur, Tiruvarur, Cuddalore, Villupuram and Chengalpattu. Those using private vehicles are being advised to travel only if necessary and people in coastal districts are advised to stay indoors in view of the prediction of heavy rainfall and gusty winds.

Heavy rain, gusts predicted for Tamil Nadu Coast as cyclone to pass by Nov 25

How much can a person take? Apparently, a lot!

A charity worker from Britain in India went through a lot. After surviving COVID-19, dengue, and malaria, Ian Jones did not expect any more hurdles. But then, he was bit by a deadly snake in the Indian state of Rajasthan.

An Indian cobra bit Jones in the Jodhpur district of Rajasthan, after which he underwent treatment at a hospital in Jodhpur city, which is 350 kms away from the state capital Jaipur.

Also read: B<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-musician-plays-classical-tunes-for-hungry-monkeys-in-thailand-344843" hreflang="en">ritish musician plays classical tunes for hungry monkeys in Thailand</a>

Initially, doctors suspected that he was also carrying COVID-19, for which he later tested negative.

"Jones came to us last week after a snake bite in a village in the region. Initially it was suspected that he is also Covid-19 positive (for the second time) but he tested negative for that," doctor Abhishek Tater, who treated him at the local Medipulse Hospital, told AFP on November 21.

The doctor spoke about the symptoms exhibited by Jones after the snake bite. "While with us, he was conscious and had snake bite symptoms including blurring of vision and difficulty to walk, but these are generally transient symptoms," Tater added.

He was discharged soon after, and the doctor believes there won’t be any “long term effects”.

Also read:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/watch-indonesian-man-kills-snake-on-train-with-bare-hands-24923" hreflang="en">Watch: Man kills snake on train with bare hands, becomes internet star</a>

“If he hasn't already improved, he'd do so within next few days," the doctor told AFP further. Additionally, the doctor pointed out how common snake bites are in rural parts of the region.

His son, Seb Jones has set up a GoFundMe page to help pay for medical bills, and to facilitate his travel back to England.

On the page, his son’s statement read as follows: "Dad is a fighter, during his time out in India he had already suffered from malaria and dengue fever before Covid-19”.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

How much can a person take? Apparently, a lot! A charity worker from Britain in India went through a lot. After surviving COVID-19, dengue, and malaria, Ian Jones did not expect any more hurdles.

How much can a person take? Apparently, a lot! A charity worker from Britain in India went through a lot. After surviving COVID-19, dengue, and malaria, Ian Jones did not expect any more hurdles. But then, he was bit by a deadly snake in the Indian state of Rajasthan. An Indian cobra bit Jones in the Jodhpur district of Rajasthan, after which he underwent treatment at a hospital in Jodhpur city, which is 350 kms away from the state capital Jaipur. Also read: British musician plays classical tunes for hungry monkeys in Thailand Initially, doctors suspected that he was also carrying COVID-19, for which he later tested negative. "Jones came to us last week after a snake bite in a village in the region. Initially it was suspected that he is also Covid-19 positive (for the second time) but he tested negative for that," doctor Abhishek Tater, who treated him at the local Medipulse Hospital, told AFP on November 21. The doctor spoke about the symptoms exhibited by Jones after the snake bite. "While with us, he was conscious and had snake bite symptoms including blurring of vision and difficulty to walk, but these are generally transient symptoms," Tater added. He was discharged soon after, and the doctor believes there won’t be any “long term effects”. Also read: Watch: Man kills snake on train with bare hands, becomes internet star “If he hasn't already improved, he'd do so within next few days," the doctor told AFP further. Additionally, the doctor pointed out how common snake bites are in rural parts of the region. His son, Seb Jones has set up a GoFundMe page to help pay for medical bills, and to facilitate his travel back to England. On the page, his son’s statement read as follows: "Dad is a fighter, during his time out in India he had already suffered from malaria and dengue fever before Covid-19”.

British man in India survives cobra bite after recovering from COVID-19, dengue, malaria

Union Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan on Sunday said that 25-30 crore Indians will be inoculated with coronavirus vaccine by September 2021.

He made these remarks during a television interview. Harsh Vardhan also confirmed that India will get a vaccine in the first three months of 2021.

On Sunday, he also addressed the Boston Center of Excellence (BoCE) for Health and Human Development through video conference and said that the rapidness at which coronavirus vaccines are being developed will have a significant effect on new technologies that will help in faster drug discoveries, lowering the cost and making it more affordable for the poor. The process, which used to take 10 years to produce vaccines, is now done in almost 10 months.

The health minister saluted the millions of frontline workers and elaborated India's strategy to contain the virus.

"It is not the first one and not the last one. But this COVID 19 will soon be a past episode of the 21st century. Our treatment protocol for COVID patients is well defined now," a statement quoted Vardhan as saying.

"Fewer and fewer people infected are dying. We will have vaccines available very soon and the cases will significantly go down in the next few months," he said.

"The rapidness with which we have been able to create vaccines will have a cascading effect on new technologies that will help us all shortly in faster drug discoveries, lowering the cost and making it more affordable for poorer sections of our population," Vardhan said.

"The process that used to take 10 years, now produces vaccines almost in 10 months -- developed, tested, and soon will be available in the market," he added.

The knowledge of drug discovery will also help to develop in several new frontiers, as they may enable to find a cure for many viral ailments that do not respond to antibiotics, Vardhan said, expressing hope that the research might have potential in treating superbugs.

He compared the pandemic to a "transitory state of our civilization". "We have not seen the Spanish Flu, World War I and World War II. But we are living in a phase of a silent war," he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Union Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan on Sunday said that 25-30 crore Indians will be inoculated with coronavirus vaccine by September 2021. He made these remarks during a television interview.

Union Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan on Sunday said that 25-30 crore Indians will be inoculated with coronavirus vaccine by September 2021. He made these remarks during a television interview. Harsh Vardhan also confirmed that India will get a vaccine in the first three months of 2021. On Sunday, he also addressed the Boston Center of Excellence (BoCE) for Health and Human Development through video conference and said that the rapidness at which coronavirus vaccines are being developed will have a significant effect on new technologies that will help in faster drug discoveries, lowering the cost and making it more affordable for the poor. The process, which used to take 10 years to produce vaccines, is now done in almost 10 months. The health minister saluted the millions of frontline workers and elaborated India's strategy to contain the virus. "It is not the first one and not the last one. But this COVID 19 will soon be a past episode of the 21st century. Our treatment protocol for COVID patients is well defined now," a statement quoted Vardhan as saying. "Fewer and fewer people infected are dying. We will have vaccines available very soon and the cases will significantly go down in the next few months," he said. "The rapidness with which we have been able to create vaccines will have a cascading effect on new technologies that will help us all shortly in faster drug discoveries, lowering the cost and making it more affordable for poorer sections of our population," Vardhan said. "The process that used to take 10 years, now produces vaccines almost in 10 months -- developed, tested, and soon will be available in the market," he added. The knowledge of drug discovery will also help to develop in several new frontiers, as they may enable to find a cure for many viral ailments that do not respond to antibiotics, Vardhan said, expressing hope that the research might have potential in treating superbugs. He compared the pandemic to a "transitory state of our civilization". "We have not seen the Spanish Flu, World War I and World War II. But we are living in a phase of a silent war," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

When will India get Covid-19 vaccine?: Health minister replies

India has officially announced the visit of foreign secretary Harsh Shringla to Nepal — a visit that comes in the backdrop of tensions between the two countries earlier this year.&nbsp;

He will be in Nepal from November 26 to 27 and this will be his first such visit to the country after taking charge as the Foreign Secretary.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepal-seeks-early-availability-of-covid-19-vaccines-344665" hreflang="en">Nepal seeks early availability of Covid-19 vaccines</a>

The ministry of external affairs, in a release announcing the visit said, "The visit is in keeping with the tradition of regular high-level exchanges between the two countries and the priority India attaches to its relations with Nepal. During the visit, Foreign Secretary will meet his counterpart and other Nepalese dignitaries to discuss the wide ranging bilateral cooperation between the two countries."

Kathmandu-Delhi ties hit a low earlier this year after Nepal's KP Sharma Oli government had issued a new map of the country staking a claim on Indian territories. The new Nepal map showed India territories of Lipulekh, Kalapani and Limpiyadhura drawing a sharp reaction from New Delhi who called it "unjustified cartographic assertion".

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-dispatch-sources-chinese-envoy-nepal-pm-oli-meet-went-on-for-2hrs-344147/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

During his visit, Shringla will also hand over COVID-19 related support to the Government of Nepal. This is the third high-level visit from India to Nepal, following the visit of the RAW chief and Indian Army chief.

Shringla has been to Bangladesh, Myanmar, the Maldives in the region amidst the coronavirus pandemic, besides his Europe visit during which he visited France, Germany, and the United Kingdom.

India has officially announced the visit of foreign secretary Harsh Shringla to Nepal — a visit that comes in the backdrop of tensions between the two countries earlier this year.

India has officially announced the visit of foreign secretary Harsh Shringla to Nepal — a visit that comes in the backdrop of tensions between the two countries earlier this year. He will be in Nepal from November 26 to 27 and this will be his first such visit to the country after taking charge as the Foreign Secretary. Also read| Nepal seeks early availability of Covid-19 vaccines The ministry of external affairs, in a release announcing the visit said, "The visit is in keeping with the tradition of regular high-level exchanges between the two countries and the priority India attaches to its relations with Nepal. During the visit, Foreign Secretary will meet his counterpart and other Nepalese dignitaries to discuss the wide ranging bilateral cooperation between the two countries." Kathmandu-Delhi ties hit a low earlier this year after Nepal's KP Sharma Oli government had issued a new map of the country staking a claim on Indian territories. The new Nepal map showed India territories of Lipulekh, Kalapani and Limpiyadhura drawing a sharp reaction from New Delhi who called it "unjustified cartographic assertion". × During his visit, Shringla will also hand over COVID-19 related support to the Government of Nepal. This is the third high-level visit from India to Nepal, following the visit of the RAW chief and Indian Army chief. Shringla has been to Bangladesh, Myanmar, the Maldives in the region amidst the coronavirus pandemic, besides his Europe visit during which he visited France, Germany, and the United Kingdom.

Indian foreign secretary on Nepal visit from November 26 to 27

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has short-listed 20 space-based experiment proposals, including from France, for its proposed Venus orbiter mission 'Shukrayaan' to study the planet for more than four years.

These include "collaborative contributions" from Russia, France, Sweden and Germany, sources in the Bengaluru- headquartered space agency said.

ISRO was earlier eyeing June 2023 for the country's first mission to Venus.

"But we are currently reviewing this mission timeline due to delays arising from the pandemic situation", an ISRO official said.

"Future launch opportunity is either in 2024 or 2026".

It was noted that the optimal launch window (when Venus is closest to the Earth) comes about every 19 months.

Of the Indian and international payload proposals it received in response to an announcement of opportunity for novel space-based experiments to study Venus, ISRO has shortlisted 20.

"These 20 payload (scientific instruments) proposals, including collaborative contributions from Russia, France, Sweden and Germany, are currently under review", the ISRO official said.

The one already selected, according to French space agency CNES, is France's VIRAL instrument (Venus Infrared Atmospheric Gas Linker) co-developed with the Russian space agency Roscosmos, and the LATMOS atmospheres, environments and space observations laboratory attached to the French national scientific research centre CNRS.

"Swedish Institute of Space Physics is engaged with India's mission to Venus", sources said.

According to ISRO, scientific objectives of ISRO's Venus mission are an investigation of the surface processes and shallow subsurface stratigraphy; and solar wind interaction with Venusian Ionosphere, and studying the structure, composition and dynamics of the atmosphere.

Venus is often described as the "twin sister" of the Earth because of the similarities in size, mass, density, bulk composition and gravity.

It is believed that both planets share a common origin, forming at the same time out of a condensing nebulosity around 4.5 billion years ago, ISRO had noted in its announcement of opportunity.

Venus is around 30 per cent closer to the Sun as compared to Earth resulting in much higher solar flux.

Exploration of Venus began in the early 1960s.

Venus has been explored by flyby, orbiter, a few lander missions and atmospheric probes.

"In spite of great progress made in exploring Venus, there still exist gaps in our basic understanding about surface/sub-surface features and processes, super-rotation of the Venusian atmosphere and its evolution and interaction with solar radiation/solar wind", ISRO had said.

The payload capability of the proposed 2500-kg satellite, planned to be launched onboard GSLV Mk II rocket, is likely to be 175 kg with 500W of power.

The proposed orbit is expected to be around 500 x 60,000 km around Venus.

This orbit is likely to be reduced gradually, over several months to a lower apoapsis (farthest point).

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has short-listed 20 space-based experiment proposals, including from France, for its proposed Venus orbiter mission 'Shukrayaan' to study the planet for more than four years.

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has short-listed 20 space-based experiment proposals, including from France, for its proposed Venus orbiter mission 'Shukrayaan' to study the planet for more than four years. These include "collaborative contributions" from Russia, France, Sweden and Germany, sources in the Bengaluru- headquartered space agency said. ISRO was earlier eyeing June 2023 for the country's first mission to Venus. "But we are currently reviewing this mission timeline due to delays arising from the pandemic situation", an ISRO official said. "Future launch opportunity is either in 2024 or 2026". It was noted that the optimal launch window (when Venus is closest to the Earth) comes about every 19 months. Of the Indian and international payload proposals it received in response to an announcement of opportunity for novel space-based experiments to study Venus, ISRO has shortlisted 20. "These 20 payload (scientific instruments) proposals, including collaborative contributions from Russia, France, Sweden and Germany, are currently under review", the ISRO official said. The one already selected, according to French space agency CNES, is France's VIRAL instrument (Venus Infrared Atmospheric Gas Linker) co-developed with the Russian space agency Roscosmos, and the LATMOS atmospheres, environments and space observations laboratory attached to the French national scientific research centre CNRS. "Swedish Institute of Space Physics is engaged with India's mission to Venus", sources said. According to ISRO, scientific objectives of ISRO's Venus mission are an investigation of the surface processes and shallow subsurface stratigraphy; and solar wind interaction with Venusian Ionosphere, and studying the structure, composition and dynamics of the atmosphere. Venus is often described as the "twin sister" of the Earth because of the similarities in size, mass, density, bulk composition and gravity. It is believed that both planets share a common origin, forming at the same time out of a condensing nebulosity around 4.5 billion years ago, ISRO had noted in its announcement of opportunity. Venus is around 30 per cent closer to the Sun as compared to Earth resulting in much higher solar flux. Exploration of Venus began in the early 1960s. Venus has been explored by flyby, orbiter, a few lander missions and atmospheric probes. "In spite of great progress made in exploring Venus, there still exist gaps in our basic understanding about surface/sub-surface features and processes, super-rotation of the Venusian atmosphere and its evolution and interaction with solar radiation/solar wind", ISRO had said. The payload capability of the proposed 2500-kg satellite, planned to be launched onboard GSLV Mk II rocket, is likely to be 175 kg with 500W of power. The proposed orbit is expected to be around 500 x 60,000 km around Venus. This orbit is likely to be reduced gradually, over several months to a lower apoapsis (farthest point).

India's proposed Venus mission attracts international payload proposals

Ever faced hate, abuse or slander on Twitter? Well, as is usual with the platform, the call for action came via a hashtag, that was trended to prevent such content and keep Twitter clean and free of lies.&nbsp;

The Hashtag #EmptyTwitterTrash trended on Twitter from late Saturday until Sunday evening, with over 62K tweets put out by individual accounts and those of social media influencers, celebrities and famous personalities from across domains. This trend was started by Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev’s Isha Foundation.&nbsp;

<img alt="Twitter" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1433750c-d55d-4ef2-a982-08f811340515" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/WhatsApp%20Image%202020-11-22%20at%2017.05.54.jpeg" />

“Twitter has become an important public forum in our society and vital to out democracies. It's important keep it clean of abuse, slander and vitriol. “EmptyTwitterTrash @TwitterIndia” read the tweet from Isha Foundation.&nbsp;

The tweet was in context of land grab charges that the Foundation has been facing for years, despite putting out all documents and records in public space. According to the&nbsp;foundation, they have shared answers to all charges - from land grab, encroachment of forests, illegal constructions at the ashram or being present in an elephant corridor, in a publicly available document called “slander sans substance” that was released two years ago.

The foundation maintains that “a band of motivated or misinformed people, continue to throw muck at their globally-recognised non-profit organisation, that's been working towards people's well-being and spiritual growth for decades”.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
When will <a href="https://twitter.com/TwitterIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TwitterIndia</a> take a stand against being a platform to peddle lies? In this country, are we going to continue to allow such a Band of Liars with obviously vested interests to rampantly propagate their fabrications by abusing public spaces? <a href="https://twitter.com/MIB_India?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MIB_India</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/rsprasad?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rsprasad</a> <a href="https://t.co/iFI0BXAKnV">pic.twitter.com/iFI0BXAKnV</a>
— Isha Foundation (@ishafoundation) <a href="https://twitter.com/ishafoundation/status/1330124382719578118?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 21, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

Many were quick to retweet or share their own experience of how they faced similar experience on Twitter and why users must be held accountable for the abusive content they post.&nbsp;

Kiran Mazumdar Shaw of Biocon, former Infosys Director Mohandas Pai, French Journalist Francois Gautier were among those who had retweeted about this cause.

Ever faced hate, abuse or slander on Twitter? Well, as is usual with the platform, the call for action came via a hashtag, that was trended to prevent such content and keep Twitter clean and free of lies.

Ever faced hate, abuse or slander on Twitter? Well, as is usual with the platform, the call for action came via a hashtag, that was trended to prevent such content and keep Twitter clean and free of lies. The Hashtag #EmptyTwitterTrash trended on Twitter from late Saturday until Sunday evening, with over 62K tweets put out by individual accounts and those of social media influencers, celebrities and famous personalities from across domains. This trend was started by Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev’s Isha Foundation. “Twitter has become an important public forum in our society and vital to out democracies. It's important keep it clean of abuse, slander and vitriol. “EmptyTwitterTrash @TwitterIndia” read the tweet from Isha Foundation. The tweet was in context of land grab charges that the Foundation has been facing for years, despite putting out all documents and records in public space. According to the foundation, they have shared answers to all charges - from land grab, encroachment of forests, illegal constructions at the ashram or being present in an elephant corridor, in a publicly available document called “slander sans substance” that was released two years ago. The foundation maintains that “a band of motivated or misinformed people, continue to throw muck at their globally-recognised non-profit organisation, that's been working towards people's well-being and spiritual growth for decades”. When will @TwitterIndia take a stand against being a platform to peddle lies? In this country, are we going to continue to allow such a Band of Liars with obviously vested interests to rampantly propagate their fabrications by abusing public spaces? @MIB_India @rsprasad pic.twitter.com/iFI0BXAKnV — Isha Foundation (@ishafoundation) November 21, 2020 × Many were quick to retweet or share their own experience of how they faced similar experience on Twitter and why users must be held accountable for the abusive content they post. Kiran Mazumdar Shaw of Biocon, former Infosys Director Mohandas Pai, French Journalist Francois Gautier were among those who had retweeted about this cause.

What’s #EmptyTwitterTrash and why did it trend?

A more than 12-hour-long operation was able to rescue an elephant who fell into a well in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu.&nbsp;

Forest officials on Friday said a crane was used to successfully pull out the elephant from the well, as reported by news agency Reuters.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zimbabwe-finds-more-elephant-carcasses-death-toll-at-22-324824#:~:text=Zimbabwe's%20wildlife%20agency%20said%20on,22%2C%20double%20the%20initial%20figure.">Zimbabwe finds more elephant carcasses, death toll at 22</a>

Rajkumar, the district forest officer said the elephant was roaming around a village bordering Dharampuri district when it fell down to the well that was covered with bushes and did not have any boundary around it.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-curbs-see-elephant-idols-shrunk-for-ganesh-chaturthi-322390">COVID-19 curbs see elephant idols shrunk for Ganesh Chaturthi</a>

"It was a deep and narrow well," said the forest officer.&nbsp;

"We were informed by locals early on Thursday and were able to retrieve the elephant only late in the night."

The officials first cleared away the bushes around the well and then pumped water out of the well. But the elephant attacked the pipes that were taking out the water.&nbsp;

"Eventually, we sedated the animal with the help of doctors and used a crane to lift it out of the well," he said.

"It was found to be healthy and active when we monitored it for three hours after the rescue."

A more than 12-hour-long operation was able to rescue an elephant who fell into a well in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu. Forest officials on Friday said a crane was used to successfully pull out the elephant from the well, as reported by news agency Reuters.

A more than 12-hour-long operation was able to rescue an elephant who fell into a well in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu. Forest officials on Friday said a crane was used to successfully pull out the elephant from the well, as reported by news agency Reuters. Also read | Zimbabwe finds more elephant carcasses, death toll at 22 Rajkumar, the district forest officer said the elephant was roaming around a village bordering Dharampuri district when it fell down to the well that was covered with bushes and did not have any boundary around it. Also read | COVID-19 curbs see elephant idols shrunk for Ganesh Chaturthi "It was a deep and narrow well," said the forest officer. "We were informed by locals early on Thursday and were able to retrieve the elephant only late in the night." The officials first cleared away the bushes around the well and then pumped water out of the well. But the elephant attacked the pipes that were taking out the water. "Eventually, we sedated the animal with the help of doctors and used a crane to lift it out of the well," he said. "It was found to be healthy and active when we monitored it for three hours after the rescue."

Tamil Nadu: Elephant falls into well, rescued after 14-hour operation

India will host the G20 summit in 2023 and not in 2022, with a postponement of one year. Sources both in Saudi Arabia and Delhi confirmed the development that India will host the summit of the grouping of the 20 biggest economies in 2023.

Sources told WION, "It has been decided on the basis of consultations and mutual convenience that we will be hosting in 2021 after Italy and Indonesia".

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-exceeding-paris-climate-targets-pm-narendra-modi-at-g20-climate-event-344725">India exceeding Paris climate targets: PM Narendra Modi at G20 climate event</a>

This will be the first such summit of the grouping that will take place in India since its formation after the 2008 financial crisis.&nbsp;

The Riyadh leader's declaration said, "We thank Saudi Arabia for hosting a successful Riyadh Summit and its contribution to the &nbsp;G20 process. We look forward to our next meetings in Italy in 2021, Indonesia in 2022, India in 2023 and Brazil in 2024"

India has already started preparation for the summit and building a secretariat as well for the summit meetings in Delhi. India's G20 Sherpa Suresh Prabhu last week told WION, "we have started the preparation, in full swing. It is led by our PM Modi, he is a very hands-on leader of the country and we are already working on a very high-tech, very state-of-the-art efficient secretariat in which there will number of ministries participating."

It was agreed at the Argentina G20 summit in 2018 that India will be hosting the summit in the 75th Independence anniversary year.

Speaking at the G20 summit that time, India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, "It's India's 75th Independence Day in 2022 &amp; we had requested Italy if we can get '22 instead of '21 (for hosting G20 summit). They accepted our request, others accepted it too.I'm grateful &amp; I invite leadership from across the world to come to India in 2022".

Italy and India had swapped the year for hosting G20 summit. In Asia, South Korea hosted G20 in 2010, followed by Turkey in 2015 and China in 2016 and next will be Indonesia.&nbsp;

India will host the G20 summit in 2023 and not in 2022, with a postponement of one year. Sources both in Saudi Arabia and Delhi confirmed the development that India will host the summit of the grouping of the 20 biggest economies in 2023.

India will host the G20 summit in 2023 and not in 2022, with a postponement of one year. Sources both in Saudi Arabia and Delhi confirmed the development that India will host the summit of the grouping of the 20 biggest economies in 2023. Sources told WION, "It has been decided on the basis of consultations and mutual convenience that we will be hosting in 2021 after Italy and Indonesia". Also read | India exceeding Paris climate targets: PM Narendra Modi at G20 climate event This will be the first such summit of the grouping that will take place in India since its formation after the 2008 financial crisis. The Riyadh leader's declaration said, "We thank Saudi Arabia for hosting a successful Riyadh Summit and its contribution to the G20 process. We look forward to our next meetings in Italy in 2021, Indonesia in 2022, India in 2023 and Brazil in 2024" India has already started preparation for the summit and building a secretariat as well for the summit meetings in Delhi. India's G20 Sherpa Suresh Prabhu last week told WION, "we have started the preparation, in full swing. It is led by our PM Modi, he is a very hands-on leader of the country and we are already working on a very high-tech, very state-of-the-art efficient secretariat in which there will number of ministries participating." It was agreed at the Argentina G20 summit in 2018 that India will be hosting the summit in the 75th Independence anniversary year. Speaking at the G20 summit that time, India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, "It's India's 75th Independence Day in 2022 & we had requested Italy if we can get '22 instead of '21 (for hosting G20 summit). They accepted our request, others accepted it too.I'm grateful & I invite leadership from across the world to come to India in 2022". Italy and India had swapped the year for hosting G20 summit. In Asia, South Korea hosted G20 in 2010, followed by Turkey in 2015 and China in 2016 and next will be Indonesia.

G20 summit in India postponed for one year, now to be held in 2023

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to hold virtual meetings with chief ministers and other representatives of states and union territories on Tuesday to review the COVID-19 situation and discuss vaccine distribution strategy.

Modi is expected to hold two back to back meetings, one with eight states with high caseloads and another with states and UTs to discuss vaccine distribution strategy, sources said.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-exceeding-paris-climate-targets-pm-narendra-modi-at-g20-climate-event-344725">India exceeding Paris climate targets: PM Narendra Modi at G20 climate event</a>

The prime minister, till now, has held several virtual meetings with states over the coronavirus situation.

While the national daily COVID-19 case count has remained below 50,000 for some time, several urban centres have witnessed a surge, resulting in enforcement of several measures, including curfews in some cities.

The central government has also been putting in place measures for quick and effective distribution of coronavirus vaccine when it becomes available.

Five vaccine candidates are in advanced stages of development in India, out of which four are in Phase II/III and one is in Phase-I/II trials

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to hold virtual meetings with chief ministers and other representatives of states and union territories on Tuesday to review the COVID-19 situation and discuss vaccine distribution strategy.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to hold virtual meetings with chief ministers and other representatives of states and union territories on Tuesday to review the COVID-19 situation and discuss vaccine distribution strategy. Modi is expected to hold two back to back meetings, one with eight states with high caseloads and another with states and UTs to discuss vaccine distribution strategy, sources said. Also read | India exceeding Paris climate targets: PM Narendra Modi at G20 climate event The prime minister, till now, has held several virtual meetings with states over the coronavirus situation. While the national daily COVID-19 case count has remained below 50,000 for some time, several urban centres have witnessed a surge, resulting in enforcement of several measures, including curfews in some cities. The central government has also been putting in place measures for quick and effective distribution of coronavirus vaccine when it becomes available. Five vaccine candidates are in advanced stages of development in India, out of which four are in Phase II/III and one is in Phase-I/II trials

PM Modi likely to hold virtual meetings with states over Covid-19 situation, vaccine distribution plan

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi speaking at G20 summit Climate Change event has highlighted that India is "exceeding" its Paris Agreement targets and New Delhi is taking a number of "concrete actions" such as making LED lights popular which is saving 38 million tons of Carbon Dioxide emissions per year and smoke-free kitchens being provided to 80 million households.

He said, "Climate change must be fought not in silos but in an integrated, comprehensive and holistic way."

Explaining, "Inspired by our traditional ethos of living in harmony with the environment, and the commitment of my Government, India has adopted low-carbon and climate-resilient development practices."

Also read | At G20 summit, PM Modi pitches for 'global index' for post-COVID world

India has taken several measures such as elimination of single-use plastics, expansion of forest cover, restore 26 million hectares of degraded land by 2030, achieve 175 gigawatts of renewable energy aimed at reducing carbon footprint and prevent climate change.&nbsp;

Indian Prime Minister batted for the International Solar Alliance, pointing out how it is "among the fastest-growing International Organizations, with 88 signatories" and has plans to mobilise billions of dollars to train thousands of stake-holders, and promote research and development in renewable energy, the ISA will contribute to reducing carbon foot-print.

The Gurugram-headquartered alliance is an India initiated project aimed at using solar energy to reduce dependency on fossil fuel.&nbsp;

He said, "This is the best time for further increasing research and innovation in new and sustainable technologies. We should do so with a spirit of cooperation and collaboration."

The side event saw the participation of Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud who is the host of G20, along with Italy's PM Giuseppe Conte, Japan's PM Yoshihide Suga, Australia's PM Scott Morrison, Chinese President Xi Jinping and US President Donald Trump.

 
&nbsp;

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi speaking at G20 summit Climate Change event has highlighted that India is "exceeding" its Paris Agreement targets and New Delhi is taking a number of "concrete actions" such as making LED lights popular which is saving 38 million tons of Carbon Dioxide emissions per year and smoke-free kitchens being provided to 80 million households.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi speaking at G20 summit Climate Change event has highlighted that India is "exceeding" its Paris Agreement targets and New Delhi is taking a number of "concrete actions" such as making LED lights popular which is saving 38 million tons of Carbon Dioxide emissions per year and smoke-free kitchens being provided to 80 million households. He said, "Climate change must be fought not in silos but in an integrated, comprehensive and holistic way." Explaining, "Inspired by our traditional ethos of living in harmony with the environment, and the commitment of my Government, India has adopted low-carbon and climate-resilient development practices." Also read | At G20 summit, PM Modi pitches for 'global index' for post-COVID world India has taken several measures such as elimination of single-use plastics, expansion of forest cover, restore 26 million hectares of degraded land by 2030, achieve 175 gigawatts of renewable energy aimed at reducing carbon footprint and prevent climate change. Indian Prime Minister batted for the International Solar Alliance, pointing out how it is "among the fastest-growing International Organizations, with 88 signatories" and has plans to mobilise billions of dollars to train thousands of stake-holders, and promote research and development in renewable energy, the ISA will contribute to reducing carbon foot-print. The Gurugram-headquartered alliance is an India initiated project aimed at using solar energy to reduce dependency on fossil fuel. He said, "This is the best time for further increasing research and innovation in new and sustainable technologies. We should do so with a spirit of cooperation and collaboration." The side event saw the participation of Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud who is the host of G20, along with Italy's PM Giuseppe Conte, Japan's PM Yoshihide Suga, Australia's PM Scott Morrison, Chinese President Xi Jinping and US President Donald Trump.

India exceeding Paris climate targets: PM Narendra Modi at G20 climate event

Senior Congress leader Salman Khurshid on Sunday slammed other leaders for criticising the grand old party for its dismal performance in recent elections and declining support.&nbsp;

Khurshid, who is considered close to the Gandhi family, said that overall support for Sonia and Rahul Gandhi is "apparent to anyone who is not blind".

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rajasthan-cm-ashok-gehlot-slams-senior-party-leader-kapil-sibal-for-congress-criticism-343567">Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot slams senior party leader Kapil Sibal for Congress criticism</a>

"I think that is apparent to anyone who is not blind, that people are fully supportive of Congress president Sonia ji and of Mr Rahul Gandhi, who is our former president. Everybody supports them," he said.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-gandhi-like-a-child-trying-to-impress-teacher-barack-obama-says-in-his-new-memoir-a-promised-land-342781">Rahul Gandhi like a child trying to impress teacher: Barack Obama says in his new memoir 'A Promised Land'</a>

In an interview to news agency PTI, he also said that the party's leadership "listens" to other party members and voicing out the views outside the party forums "hurts" it.&nbsp;

"The leadership listens to me, I am given an opportunity, they (those criticising in the media) are given an opportunity, where does this thing come from that the leadership is not listening," Khurshid said. &nbsp;

Recently, leaders and former Cabinet ministers like Kapil Sibal and P Chidambaram had said that the time for introspection is over and the party has failed to remain as the top alternative to the ruling BJP.&nbsp;

"Analysis is done all the time, there is no quarrel about analysis. It will be done. The leadership, of which all these people are a part, will appropriately look at what may have gone wrong, how we could have improved, and that will happen in the normal course, we needn't talk about it in the public," Khurshid added.&nbsp;

Khurshid also said that he agreed with the views of other leaders who have openly criticised but adds that there was no reason to air these opinions to media.&nbsp;

When asked that the party has still not elected its president for more than a year following its poor show in the general election, Khurshid gave examples of several parties that are running without presidents and said the process to choose party chief is being conducted and there is a good reason why the process is taking the time. &nbsp;

"Nobody has gone away, they are all here. The only insistence is on a label, why do you insist on a label. There is no president in the Bahujan Samaj Party, there is no chairman in the Left wing parties, only general secretaries...Every party cannot follow the same model," the senior Congress leader said.&nbsp;

Senior Congress leader Salman Khurshid on Sunday slammed other leaders for criticising the grand old party for its dismal performance in recent elections and declining support.

Senior Congress leader Salman Khurshid on Sunday slammed other leaders for criticising the grand old party for its dismal performance in recent elections and declining support. Khurshid, who is considered close to the Gandhi family, said that overall support for Sonia and Rahul Gandhi is "apparent to anyone who is not blind". Also read | Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot slams senior party leader Kapil Sibal for Congress criticism "I think that is apparent to anyone who is not blind, that people are fully supportive of Congress president Sonia ji and of Mr Rahul Gandhi, who is our former president. Everybody supports them," he said. Also read | Rahul Gandhi like a child trying to impress teacher: Barack Obama says in his new memoir 'A Promised Land' In an interview to news agency PTI, he also said that the party's leadership "listens" to other party members and voicing out the views outside the party forums "hurts" it. "The leadership listens to me, I am given an opportunity, they (those criticising in the media) are given an opportunity, where does this thing come from that the leadership is not listening," Khurshid said. Recently, leaders and former Cabinet ministers like Kapil Sibal and P Chidambaram had said that the time for introspection is over and the party has failed to remain as the top alternative to the ruling BJP. "Analysis is done all the time, there is no quarrel about analysis. It will be done. The leadership, of which all these people are a part, will appropriately look at what may have gone wrong, how we could have improved, and that will happen in the normal course, we needn't talk about it in the public," Khurshid added. Khurshid also said that he agreed with the views of other leaders who have openly criticised but adds that there was no reason to air these opinions to media. When asked that the party has still not elected its president for more than a year following its poor show in the general election, Khurshid gave examples of several parties that are running without presidents and said the process to choose party chief is being conducted and there is a good reason why the process is taking the time. "Nobody has gone away, they are all here. The only insistence is on a label, why do you insist on a label. There is no president in the Bahujan Samaj Party, there is no chairman in the Left wing parties, only general secretaries...Every party cannot follow the same model," the senior Congress leader said.

Khurshid slams Congress critics, says support to Gandhis 'apparent to anyone who isn't blind '

India's pharmaceutical company&nbsp;Bharat Biotech International Ltd has now, months later, revealed that during Phase 1 of the human trial of COVID-19 vaccine, the company had an adverse event.

In August 2020, a patient who was given the vaccine was hospitalised after receiving the dose of the COVID-19 vaccine Covaxin. However, the company and the doctors involved made sure the issue was not made public, so as to not let the public panic. The decision was taken by the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation and its head Drug Controller General of India V.G. Somani.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-grants-emergency-use-authorisation-to-regeneron-covid-19-antibodies-344588">US grants emergency use authorisation to Regeneron Covid-19 antibodies</a>

“The adverse event during phase I clinical trials during August 2020 was reported to the CDSCO-DCGI within 24 hours of its occurrence and confirmation. The adverse event was investigated thoroughly and determined as not vaccine related," the company said in a statement.

As per local reports, the patient who was hospitalised is a 35-year-old volunteer from Western India, with no co-morbidities. He was admitted for treatment of&nbsp;viral pneumonitis, and was discharged within a week. It was made clear that the patient was not admitted due to the side effects of the vaccine. However, "all treatment costs for the subject was fully paid for by the sponsor, and the subject is safe," Bharat Biotech said.

The company also claimed that it got approval for the next two phases of trials only after going through a detailed investigation about this adverse event. the company has now started the third and final phase of human trials for Covaxin which will be conducted on nearly 26,000 participants which can cost the company approximately Rs. 250 crore.

The other coronavirus vaccines being developed by&nbsp;AstraZeneca and Johnson &amp; Johnson had temporarily paused their trials after similar events had taken place during their trials.

India's pharmaceutical company Bharat Biotech International Ltd has now, months later, revealed that during Phase 1 of the human trial of COVID-19 vaccine, the company had an adverse event.

India's pharmaceutical company Bharat Biotech International Ltd has now, months later, revealed that during Phase 1 of the human trial of COVID-19 vaccine, the company had an adverse event. In August 2020, a patient who was given the vaccine was hospitalised after receiving the dose of the COVID-19 vaccine Covaxin. However, the company and the doctors involved made sure the issue was not made public, so as to not let the public panic. The decision was taken by the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation and its head Drug Controller General of India V.G. Somani. Also read| US grants emergency use authorisation to Regeneron Covid-19 antibodies “The adverse event during phase I clinical trials during August 2020 was reported to the CDSCO-DCGI within 24 hours of its occurrence and confirmation. The adverse event was investigated thoroughly and determined as not vaccine related," the company said in a statement. As per local reports, the patient who was hospitalised is a 35-year-old volunteer from Western India, with no co-morbidities. He was admitted for treatment of viral pneumonitis, and was discharged within a week. It was made clear that the patient was not admitted due to the side effects of the vaccine. However, "all treatment costs for the subject was fully paid for by the sponsor, and the subject is safe," Bharat Biotech said. The company also claimed that it got approval for the next two phases of trials only after going through a detailed investigation about this adverse event. the company has now started the third and final phase of human trials for Covaxin which will be conducted on nearly 26,000 participants which can cost the company approximately Rs. 250 crore. The other coronavirus vaccines being developed by AstraZeneca and Johnson & Johnson had temporarily paused their trials after similar events had taken place during their trials.

Bharat Biotech reveals adverse event during Phase 1 trial of COVID-19 vaccine

India reported less than 50,000 new single-day coronavirus cases for the 15th consecutive day on Sunday as its total tally reached 90,95,806.

With 45,209 new cases and 43,493 more patients discharged in last 24 hours, the country`s active cases totalled 4,40,962, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare data said. As many as 85,21,617 persons have recovered so far from the disease.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-grants-emergency-use-authorisation-to-regeneron-covid-19-antibodies-344588" hreflang="en">US grants emergency use authorisation to Regeneron Covid-19 antibodies</a>

In all 501 more fatalities in the last 24 hours took its death toll to 1,33,227.

The last time the daily new cases crossed the 50,000-mark was November 7.

While India`s recovery rate is 1.46 per cent, the fatality rate is 1.46 per cent, the data said.

Maharashtra remains the worst-hit state with 80,878 active cases and 46,573 deaths so far. The recoveries in the state total 16,47,004.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-hits-12-million-covid-19-cases-as-many-americans-defy-thanksgiving-travel-guidance-344596" hreflang="en">US hits 12 million COVID-19 cases as many Americans defy Thanksgiving travel guidance</a>

Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka also reported high number of cases, while states like Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal witnessed a surge in infection too.

According Indian Council of Medical Research data, 10,75,326 more samples were tested on Saturday. So far, 13,17,33,134 samples have been tested across the country.

For the second day in a row, recovered patients outnumbered new infections by 1,084 in Delhi, yet the number of fatalities remained a cause of worry.

The national capital reported 5,879 new infections and 6,963 more recoveries in the last 24 hours. However, Delhi`s fatalities totalled 111, Delhi government data showed.

Across the world, 5,80,95,887 persons were infected across 191 nations, of which the maximum numbers were in the US. The global coronavirus death toll totalled 13,79,839, with maximum reported in the US (2,55,830).

TUS remains the worst-hit country with 1,20,88,409 corona cases, followed by India, Brazil, France and Russia.

India reported less than 50,000 new single-day coronavirus cases for the 15th consecutive day on Sunday as its total tally reached 90,95,806. With 45,209 new cases and 43,493 more patients discharged in last 24 hours, the country`s active cases totalled 4,40,962, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare data said.

India reported less than 50,000 new single-day coronavirus cases for the 15th consecutive day on Sunday as its total tally reached 90,95,806. With 45,209 new cases and 43,493 more patients discharged in last 24 hours, the country`s active cases totalled 4,40,962, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare data said. As many as 85,21,617 persons have recovered so far from the disease. Also read| US grants emergency use authorisation to Regeneron Covid-19 antibodies In all 501 more fatalities in the last 24 hours took its death toll to 1,33,227. The last time the daily new cases crossed the 50,000-mark was November 7. While India`s recovery rate is 1.46 per cent, the fatality rate is 1.46 per cent, the data said. Maharashtra remains the worst-hit state with 80,878 active cases and 46,573 deaths so far. The recoveries in the state total 16,47,004. Also read| US hits 12 million COVID-19 cases as many Americans defy Thanksgiving travel guidance Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka also reported high number of cases, while states like Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal witnessed a surge in infection too. According Indian Council of Medical Research data, 10,75,326 more samples were tested on Saturday. So far, 13,17,33,134 samples have been tested across the country. For the second day in a row, recovered patients outnumbered new infections by 1,084 in Delhi, yet the number of fatalities remained a cause of worry. The national capital reported 5,879 new infections and 6,963 more recoveries in the last 24 hours. However, Delhi`s fatalities totalled 111, Delhi government data showed. Across the world, 5,80,95,887 persons were infected across 191 nations, of which the maximum numbers were in the US. The global coronavirus death toll totalled 13,79,839, with maximum reported in the US (2,55,830). TUS remains the worst-hit country with 1,20,88,409 corona cases, followed by India, Brazil, France and Russia.

India reports less than 50,000 new corona cases for 15 straight days

ndia has summoned Pakistan's top diplomat in Delhi to strongly protest against the Nagrota terror and Islamabad's involvement in cross border terrorism.&nbsp;

The Pakistani CDA-charges de affairs was handed a protest note in which New Delhi conveyed its "strong concern" on the terror attack planned by Jaish e Mohammed in the UT of Jammu and Kashmir.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/terrorists-had-planned-attack-on-2611-anniversary-pm-modi-holds-review-meet-344309">Terrorists had planned attack on 26/11 anniversary: PM Modi holds review meet</a>

The protest note asked Pakistan to "stop supporting terrorists and terror groups operating from their territory and dismantle the terrorism infrastructure", top sources told WION.&nbsp;

He was also told that India is "firm and resolute" in taking all necessary measures to safeguard its national security in the fight against terrorism.

Earlier this week, a major terror attack was thwarted with the killing of 4 Jaish terrorists. The terrorists were neutralised at a toll plaza on Jammu--Srinagar national highway in Nagrota area of Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nagrota-encounter-pm-modis-rare-tweet-on-anti-terror-operation-344453/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Pakistan's involvement in the incident has emerged, especially in the supply of phones. The phones recovered from the slained terrorists have been manufactured by a Pakistani company.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
On Thursday Indian Prime Minister held a review meeting attended by Home minister Amit Shah, NSA Ajit Doval, foreign secretary Harsh Shringla. The terrorists were planning a major attack ahead of the 26/11 attack anniversary.

ndia has summoned Pakistan's top diplomat in Delhi to strongly protest against the Nagrota terror and Islamabad's involvement in cross border terrorism. The Pakistani CDA-charges de affairs was handed a protest note in which New Delhi conveyed its "strong concern" on the terror attack planned by Jaish e Mohammed in the UT of Jammu and Kashmir.

ndia has summoned Pakistan's top diplomat in Delhi to strongly protest against the Nagrota terror and Islamabad's involvement in cross border terrorism. The Pakistani CDA-charges de affairs was handed a protest note in which New Delhi conveyed its "strong concern" on the terror attack planned by Jaish e Mohammed in the UT of Jammu and Kashmir. Also read| Terrorists had planned attack on 26/11 anniversary: PM Modi holds review meet The protest note asked Pakistan to "stop supporting terrorists and terror groups operating from their territory and dismantle the terrorism infrastructure", top sources told WION. He was also told that India is "firm and resolute" in taking all necessary measures to safeguard its national security in the fight against terrorism. Earlier this week, a major terror attack was thwarted with the killing of 4 Jaish terrorists. The terrorists were neutralised at a toll plaza on Jammu--Srinagar national highway in Nagrota area of Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir. × Pakistan's involvement in the incident has emerged, especially in the supply of phones. The phones recovered from the slained terrorists have been manufactured by a Pakistani company. On Thursday Indian Prime Minister held a review meeting attended by Home minister Amit Shah, NSA Ajit Doval, foreign secretary Harsh Shringla. The terrorists were planning a major attack ahead of the 26/11 attack anniversary.

Nagrota incident: India summons Pak's top diplomat; lodges 'strong concerns'

India's Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla speaking at the 3rd Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) -India Conference said that upholding international law was central to Indian diplomacy.

"As a strong proponent of a peaceful and rules-based international legal order, it is no surprise that India supports the PCA and its mandate to resolve international disputes. The upholding of international law is central to our diplomacy and in fact our world view," He said.

The comments come even as India's neighbor China has stood out in disregarding international law, including rejecting, PCA's own verdict. China had rejected verdict of a tribunal set up under the PCA in the Philippines vs China case of 2016.&nbsp;

The tribunal rejected China's claim to the South China Sea based on the so-called "nine-dash line". The arbitral tribunal has been constituted under Annex. VII to the United Nations Convention on Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) 1982 at PCA.

India on the other hand has availed the services of the Hague-based court and resolved international disputes with other countries. Well known examples include, Kishenganga Arbitration with Pakistan under the Indus Water Treaty, the Maritime Boundary delimitation with Bangladesh, and the Italian Marines Case.

"Institutions such as the Permanent Court of Arbitration have assisted us....and have played a pivotal role in ensuring that peace among nations is maintained, through a civilized and principled settlement of disputes," said the Foreign Secretary.

"Since its establishment, the PCA has handled many politically significant and interesting cases. It has become a premier institution and first choice for the resolution of international disputes involving States, State entities, Inter-Governmental Organizations as well as private entities," he added.

Permanent Court of Arbitration was established in 1899, and India became its member in 1950. In 1998, India and PCA entered into Host Country Agreement, under which PCA-administered proceedings could be conducted in India. New Delhi under its new Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT) has the Secretary-General of the PCA as the appointing authority, for arbitrations under the treaty.

Present during the meet which Foreign Secretary addressed were Chief Justice of India SA Bobde, Justice Indu Malhotra, Secretary-General of Permanent Court of Arbitration Hugo Siblesz, Chairperson of the PCA-India Conference Committee Fali Nariman, India's envoy to Netherlands Venu Rajamony, and Justice Dalveer Bhandari of International Court of Justice. Justice Bhandari is the only Indian member of the International Court of Justice.

India's Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla speaking at the 3rd Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) -India Conference said that upholding international law was central to Indian diplomacy.

India's Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla speaking at the 3rd Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) -India Conference said that upholding international law was central to Indian diplomacy. "As a strong proponent of a peaceful and rules-based international legal order, it is no surprise that India supports the PCA and its mandate to resolve international disputes. The upholding of international law is central to our diplomacy and in fact our world view," He said. The comments come even as India's neighbor China has stood out in disregarding international law, including rejecting, PCA's own verdict. China had rejected verdict of a tribunal set up under the PCA in the Philippines vs China case of 2016. The tribunal rejected China's claim to the South China Sea based on the so-called "nine-dash line". The arbitral tribunal has been constituted under Annex. VII to the United Nations Convention on Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) 1982 at PCA. India on the other hand has availed the services of the Hague-based court and resolved international disputes with other countries. Well known examples include, Kishenganga Arbitration with Pakistan under the Indus Water Treaty, the Maritime Boundary delimitation with Bangladesh, and the Italian Marines Case. "Institutions such as the Permanent Court of Arbitration have assisted us....and have played a pivotal role in ensuring that peace among nations is maintained, through a civilized and principled settlement of disputes," said the Foreign Secretary. "Since its establishment, the PCA has handled many politically significant and interesting cases. It has become a premier institution and first choice for the resolution of international disputes involving States, State entities, Inter-Governmental Organizations as well as private entities," he added. Permanent Court of Arbitration was established in 1899, and India became its member in 1950. In 1998, India and PCA entered into Host Country Agreement, under which PCA-administered proceedings could be conducted in India. New Delhi under its new Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT) has the Secretary-General of the PCA as the appointing authority, for arbitrations under the treaty. Present during the meet which Foreign Secretary addressed were Chief Justice of India SA Bobde, Justice Indu Malhotra, Secretary-General of Permanent Court of Arbitration Hugo Siblesz, Chairperson of the PCA-India Conference Committee Fali Nariman, India's envoy to Netherlands Venu Rajamony, and Justice Dalveer Bhandari of International Court of Justice. Justice Bhandari is the only Indian member of the International Court of Justice.

Upholding international law central to Indian diplomacy: Foreign Secretary Harsh Shringla

In the rare occurrence, Indian PM Narendra Modi tweeted about the killing of Pakistani terrorists in the Nagrota region of Jammu & Kashmir. The significance tweet comes on the back of high level meets shared by PM which revealed that the plot was much bigger.

Nagrota Encounter: PM Modi's rare tweet on anti-terror operation

india-news

India, News on India, stories on India, articles on India, India stories at Wion, India news, India latest news

india news