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Prime Minister Narendra Modi will unveil a statue of Swami Vivekananda at the Jawaharlal Nehru University campus on Thursday, via video conferencing.

Taking to Twitter, PM Modi wrote: "At 6:30 this evening, will unveil a statue of Swami Vivekananda at the JNU campus and share my thoughts on the occasion. The programme will be held via video conferencing. I look forward to the programme this evening."

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At 6:30 this evening, will unveil a statue of Swami Vivekananda at the JNU campus and share my thoughts on the occasion. The programme will be held via video conferencing. I look forward to the programme this evening.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1326735652554231808?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 12, 2020</a></blockquote>
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A statement released by the University earlier read that Prime Minister Modi will through video conferencing unveil the life-size statue of Swami Vivekananda installed on the University campus on November 12, at 6:30 pm.

The unveiling of the statue will be preceded by a programme on Swami Vivekananda from 5:30 pm onwards.

"Swami Vivekananda is one of the most beloved intellectuals and spiritual leaders India has been fortunate to produce. He enthused the youth with his message of freedom, development, harmony and peace in India. He inspired citizens to take pride in Indian civilisation, culture and its industrious spirit," the JNU Vice-Chancellor said in a statement.

(With inputs from agencies)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will unveil a statue of Swami Vivekananda at the Jawaharlal Nehru University campus on Thursday, via video conferencing. Taking to Twitter, PM Modi wrote: "At 6:30 this evening, will unveil a statue of Swami Vivekananda at the JNU campus and share my thoughts on the occasion.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will unveil a statue of Swami Vivekananda at the Jawaharlal Nehru University campus on Thursday, via video conferencing. Taking to Twitter, PM Modi wrote: "At 6:30 this evening, will unveil a statue of Swami Vivekananda at the JNU campus and share my thoughts on the occasion. The programme will be held via video conferencing. I look forward to the programme this evening." At 6:30 this evening, will unveil a statue of Swami Vivekananda at the JNU campus and share my thoughts on the occasion. The programme will be held via video conferencing. I look forward to the programme this evening. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 12, 2020 × A statement released by the University earlier read that Prime Minister Modi will through video conferencing unveil the life-size statue of Swami Vivekananda installed on the University campus on November 12, at 6:30 pm. The unveiling of the statue will be preceded by a programme on Swami Vivekananda from 5:30 pm onwards. "Swami Vivekananda is one of the most beloved intellectuals and spiritual leaders India has been fortunate to produce. He enthused the youth with his message of freedom, development, harmony and peace in India. He inspired citizens to take pride in Indian civilisation, culture and its industrious spirit," the JNU Vice-Chancellor said in a statement. (With inputs from agencies)

Swami Vivekananda at JNU: PM Narendra Modi to unveil life-size statue via video conferencing

Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri announced that the Indian Domestic airlines can now operate up to 70 per cent of the flights that they were operating before the Covid-19 pandemic struck.&nbsp;

In a circular, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation said that the order comes into effect immediately. Currently, the airlines are allowed to operate 60 per cent of their pre-Covid capacity. 
 
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"Domestic operations recommenced with 30K passengers on 25 May &amp; have reached 2.06 lakhs on 8 November," Puri said via a tweet.

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Domestic operations recommenced with 30K passengers on 25 May &amp; have reached 2.06 lakhs on 8 Nov 2020. <a href="https://twitter.com/MoCA_GoI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MoCA_GoI</a> is now allowing domestic carriers to increase their operations from existing 60% to 70% of the pre-COVID approved capacity.
— Hardeep Singh Puri (@HardeepSPuri) <a href="https://twitter.com/HardeepSPuri/status/1326511595753664512?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The ministry had resumed scheduled domestic passenger services from May 25, after a gap of two months due to the coronavirus-triggered lockdown. However, the airlines were allowed to operate not more than 33 per cent of their pre-COVID domestic flights.

On June 26, this was increased to 45 per cent and on September 2, it was further increased to 60 per cent.

(With inputs from agencies)

Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri announced that the Indian Domestic airlines can now operate up to 70 per cent of the flights that they were operating before the Covid-19 pandemic struck.

Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri announced that the Indian Domestic airlines can now operate up to 70 per cent of the flights that they were operating before the Covid-19 pandemic struck. In a circular, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation said that the order comes into effect immediately. Currently, the airlines are allowed to operate 60 per cent of their pre-Covid capacity. "Domestic operations recommenced with 30K passengers on 25 May & have reached 2.06 lakhs on 8 November," Puri said via a tweet. Domestic operations recommenced with 30K passengers on 25 May & have reached 2.06 lakhs on 8 Nov 2020. @MoCA_GoI is now allowing domestic carriers to increase their operations from existing 60% to 70% of the pre-COVID approved capacity. — Hardeep Singh Puri (@HardeepSPuri) November 11, 2020 × The ministry had resumed scheduled domestic passenger services from May 25, after a gap of two months due to the coronavirus-triggered lockdown. However, the airlines were allowed to operate not more than 33 per cent of their pre-COVID domestic flights. On June 26, this was increased to 45 per cent and on September 2, it was further increased to 60 per cent. (With inputs from agencies)

Govt increases domestic flights' cap from 60% to 70% of pre-Covid levels

Government of India on Thursday announced a new scheme named “Atmanirbhar Bharat Rozgar Yojana” to incentivize the creation of new employment opportunities during the COVID-19 recovery phase.

Finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced in a press conference that the new scheme will boost job creations&nbsp;by giving subsidy to those establishments that make new hires.

The subsidy would be to cover for retirement fund contributions by employees as well as employers for two years, she said.

Employees contribution (12 per cent of wages) and employer's contribution (12 per cent of wages) totalling 24 per cent of wages would be given to establishments for two years, she said.

Under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat Rozgar Yojana, every Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) registered establishment taking new employees would get this subsidy.

The scheme will cover any new employee joining employment in EPFO-registered establishment on monthly wages less than Rs 15,000 crore.

It would also cover EPF members drawing monthly wages of less than Rs 15,000, who made an exit from employment during COVID-19 pandemic from March 1, 2020, and is employed on or after October 1, 2020.

The scheme would cover establishments registered with EPFO if they add new employees compared to the reference base of employees as in September 2020.

The condition would be adding a minimum of two new employees for establishments with up to 50 employees. Those establishments with more than 50 employees, would have to give a minimum of five new jobs.

The scheme would be operational till June 30, 2021.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Government of India on Thursday announced a new scheme named “Atmanirbhar Bharat Rozgar Yojana” to incentivize the creation of new employment opportunities during the COVID-19 recovery phase.

Government of India on Thursday announced a new scheme named “Atmanirbhar Bharat Rozgar Yojana” to incentivize the creation of new employment opportunities during the COVID-19 recovery phase. Finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced in a press conference that the new scheme will boost job creations by giving subsidy to those establishments that make new hires. The subsidy would be to cover for retirement fund contributions by employees as well as employers for two years, she said. Employees contribution (12 per cent of wages) and employer's contribution (12 per cent of wages) totalling 24 per cent of wages would be given to establishments for two years, she said. Under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat Rozgar Yojana, every Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) registered establishment taking new employees would get this subsidy. The scheme will cover any new employee joining employment in EPFO-registered establishment on monthly wages less than Rs 15,000 crore. It would also cover EPF members drawing monthly wages of less than Rs 15,000, who made an exit from employment during COVID-19 pandemic from March 1, 2020, and is employed on or after October 1, 2020. The scheme would cover establishments registered with EPFO if they add new employees compared to the reference base of employees as in September 2020. The condition would be adding a minimum of two new employees for establishments with up to 50 employees. Those establishments with more than 50 employees, would have to give a minimum of five new jobs. The scheme would be operational till June 30, 2021. (With inputs from agencies)

What is Atmanirbhar Bharat Rozgar Yojana and who can avail it?

Indian Finance Minister Sitharaman on Monday announced Rupees 12,000 crore interest-free 50-year loan to states for spending on capital projects.

Indian Finance Minister Sitharaman announces Rs12,000 crore interest-free 50-year loan to states

Russia has supported India that bilateral matter should not be raised at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) forum. The development comes after Pakistan has been attempting to raise India-Pakistan matters at the Beijing Headquartered organization.

Russian Deputy Envoy to Delhi, Roman N Babushkin in response to WION question said, “This is a part of SCO charter and SCO basic documents not to bring the bilateral issue into the agenda. It has been made clear to all members states that it should be avoided...for the sake of the progress of multilateral cooperation."

Adding, "The importance of SCO is to deal with regional challenges, to promote economic, financial, humanitarian partnership among member states in order to keep the momentum...we not interfere in bilateral issues despite such kind of India Pakistan... Our position remains consistent and unchanged. We hope such kind of instances will not appear."

Indian Prime minister Narendra Modi had also raised the matter at the SCO head of state meeting earlier this week. He said, "It is unfortunate that many attempts are being made to unnecessarily bring bilateral issues into the SCO agenda. This is a violation of SCO charter and Shanghai spirit".

In the run-up to the SCO virtual summit, a number of SCO meetings happened. In the SCO NSA virtual meet, the Pakistani NSA has put a map of Pakistan that violated the territorial integrity of India drawing a strong response from New Delhi.

SCO is a grouping of 8 countries--India, Pakistan, Russia, China, and 4 central Asian countries- Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. India will be hosting SCO heads of government virtual meet on 30th November which focus on economic cooperation.

Russia has supported India that bilateral matter should not be raised at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) forum. The development comes after Pakistan has been attempting to raise India-Pakistan matters at the Beijing Headquartered organization.

Russia has supported India that bilateral matter should not be raised at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) forum. The development comes after Pakistan has been attempting to raise India-Pakistan matters at the Beijing Headquartered organization. Russian Deputy Envoy to Delhi, Roman N Babushkin in response to WION question said, “This is a part of SCO charter and SCO basic documents not to bring the bilateral issue into the agenda. It has been made clear to all members states that it should be avoided...for the sake of the progress of multilateral cooperation." Adding, "The importance of SCO is to deal with regional challenges, to promote economic, financial, humanitarian partnership among member states in order to keep the momentum...we not interfere in bilateral issues despite such kind of India Pakistan... Our position remains consistent and unchanged. We hope such kind of instances will not appear." Indian Prime minister Narendra Modi had also raised the matter at the SCO head of state meeting earlier this week. He said, "It is unfortunate that many attempts are being made to unnecessarily bring bilateral issues into the SCO agenda. This is a violation of SCO charter and Shanghai spirit". In the run-up to the SCO virtual summit, a number of SCO meetings happened. In the SCO NSA virtual meet, the Pakistani NSA has put a map of Pakistan that violated the territorial integrity of India drawing a strong response from New Delhi. SCO is a grouping of 8 countries--India, Pakistan, Russia, China, and 4 central Asian countries- Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. India will be hosting SCO heads of government virtual meet on 30th November which focus on economic cooperation.

Russia supports India at SCO; says the bilateral matter should not be raised

Serum Insitute of India, the world's largest maker of vaccines, on Thursday said it has already produced 40 million doses of AstraZeneca's potential COVID-19 vaccine.

The vaccine is named Covishield by the institute and is jointly developed by pharma giant AstraZeneca and the University of Oxford.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/volunteers-face-severe-hangover-headache-and-pain-after-getting-pfizer-vaccine-shot-342518">Volunteers face 'severe hangover', headache and pain after getting Pfizer vaccine shot</a>

It is originally named ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 and is one of the top contenders in the race to develop vaccines to treat Covid-19.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-president-warns-recurring-cycles-viral-spread-despite-vaccine-342445">EU president warns 'recurring cycles' viral spread despite vaccine</a>

Serum refused to confirm whether the 40 million doses of vaccine will be supplied globally or only distributed in India, news agency Reuters reported.&nbsp;

The vaccine maker also said doses of Novavax vaccine, another top candidate, will be produced soon, adding that the bulk of the drug has been received from the US company.&nbsp;

It also said the AstraZeneca vaccine is in the most advanced stage of human testing in India, adding that the company along with the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) will pursue "early availability" of the doses in India.

India also has at least two indigenously developed vaccine candidates, while Dr Reddy's Labs is conducting a trial for Russia's vaccine candidate.

The development came as coronavirus infections in India, the world's second-worst, reached 8.68 million on Thursday and the death toll rose over 128,000.

 
&nbsp;

Serum Insitute of India, the world's largest maker of vaccines, on Thursday said it has already produced 40 million doses of AstraZeneca's potential COVID-19 vaccine.

Serum Insitute of India, the world's largest maker of vaccines, on Thursday said it has already produced 40 million doses of AstraZeneca's potential COVID-19 vaccine. The vaccine is named Covishield by the institute and is jointly developed by pharma giant AstraZeneca and the University of Oxford. Also read | Volunteers face 'severe hangover', headache and pain after getting Pfizer vaccine shot It is originally named ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 and is one of the top contenders in the race to develop vaccines to treat Covid-19. Also read | EU president warns 'recurring cycles' viral spread despite vaccine Serum refused to confirm whether the 40 million doses of vaccine will be supplied globally or only distributed in India, news agency Reuters reported. The vaccine maker also said doses of Novavax vaccine, another top candidate, will be produced soon, adding that the bulk of the drug has been received from the US company. It also said the AstraZeneca vaccine is in the most advanced stage of human testing in India, adding that the company along with the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) will pursue "early availability" of the doses in India. India also has at least two indigenously developed vaccine candidates, while Dr Reddy's Labs is conducting a trial for Russia's vaccine candidate. The development came as coronavirus infections in India, the world's second-worst, reached 8.68 million on Thursday and the death toll rose over 128,000.

India's Serum Institute, world's largest vaccine maker says 40 million doses of AstraZeneca drug produced

The Central government has brought online news portals and content providers under the Information and Broadcasting ministry.

The development was announced in a gazette notification on November 9 declaring that the President has signed the order to include online films, digital news and current affairs content under the purview of the I&amp;B Ministry headed by Union minister Prakash Javadekar.

 
 
<img alt="Cabinet Secretariat" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="017b8e1f-09b6-42a9-afa8-04db355abf45" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/digital-news.png" />

Streaming platforms such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hotstar will now be governed by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.

Back in 2019, I&amp;B Minister Prakash Javadekar had stated that the Modi government won't take any step that may curb media freedom. He also said that there should be some kind of regulation on over-the-top platforms, as there is for the print and electronic media and films as well.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Central government has brought online news portals and content providers under the Information and Broadcasting ministry. The development was announced in a gazette notification on November 9 declaring that the President has signed the order to include online films, digital news and current affairs content under the purview of the I&B Ministry headed by Union minister Prakash Javadekar.

The Central government has brought online news portals and content providers under the Information and Broadcasting ministry. The development was announced in a gazette notification on November 9 declaring that the President has signed the order to include online films, digital news and current affairs content under the purview of the I&B Ministry headed by Union minister Prakash Javadekar. Streaming platforms such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hotstar will now be governed by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting. Back in 2019, I&B Minister Prakash Javadekar had stated that the Modi government won't take any step that may curb media freedom. He also said that there should be some kind of regulation on over-the-top platforms, as there is for the print and electronic media and films as well. (With inputs from agencies)

Online news portals, films, content providers now under regulation of Government

Indian-American Kash Patel has been named as the Chief of Staff to the acting US Defence Secretary Chris Miller, the <a href="https://www.defense.gov/Newsroom/Releases/Release/Article/2411893/dod-statement-on-personnel-changes-at-the-pentagon/">Pentagon</a> has announced.

The new appointment from the Pentagon comes a day after Trump fired Defence Secretary Mark Esper and designated the National Counter Terrorism Center Director, Chris Miller, as the acting Secretary of Defence.

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Miller took over the functions and responsibilities of the new role on Monday, the Pentagon said on Tuesday.

Kash Patel, currently on the National Security Council staff, has been named by Acting Secretary Miller as his Chief of Staff,? the Pentagon announced on Tuesday. He replaces Jen Stewart, who resigned earlier in the day.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/biden-picks-indian-american-to-lead-the-new-task-force-to-tackle-covid-crisis-in-us-341964" hreflang="en">Biden picks Indian American to lead the new task force to tackle COVID crisis in US</a>

Acting Under Secretary of Defence for Policy James Anderson, Under Secretary of Defence for Intelligence and Security Joseph Kernan have submitted letters of resignation.

Kashyap Pramod Patel, or popularly known as Kash Patel, had previously served as senior counsel for Counterterrorism at the House Permanent Select Committee.''

In June 2019, Patel, 39, was appointed as senior director of Counterterrorism Directorate of the National Security Council (NSC) in the White House.

New York-born Patel has his roots in Gujarat. However, his parents are from East Africa, the mother from Tanzania and father from Uganda. They came to the US from Canada in 1970. The family moved to Queens in New York&nbsp;which is often called as Little India -- in the late 70s.

After his schooling in New York and college in Richmond, Virginia, and law school in New York, Patel went to Florida where he was a state public defender for four years and then federal public defender for another four years.

From Florida, he moved to Washington DC as a terrorism prosecutor at the Department of Justice. Here he was an international terrorism prosecutor for about three and a half years. During this period, he worked on cases all over the world, in America in East Africa as well as in Uganda and Kenya.

While still employed by the Department of Justice, he went as a civilian to join Special Operations Command at the Department of Defence.

At the Pentagon, he sat as the Department of Justice's lawyer with Special Forces people and worked interagency collaborative targeting operations around the world.

After a year in this sensitive position, Congressman Davin Nunes, Chairman of the House Permanent Select on Intelligence Committee, pulled him as senior counsel on counterterrorism.

Indian-American Kash Patel has been named as the Chief of Staff to the acting US Defence Secretary Chris Miller, the Pentagon has announced. The new appointment from the Pentagon comes a day after Trump fired Defence Secretary Mark Esper and designated the National Counter Terrorism Center Director, Chris Miller, as the acting Secretary of Defence.

Indian-American Kash Patel has been named as the Chief of Staff to the acting US Defence Secretary Chris Miller, the Pentagon has announced. The new appointment from the Pentagon comes a day after Trump fired Defence Secretary Mark Esper and designated the National Counter Terrorism Center Director, Chris Miller, as the acting Secretary of Defence. Miller took over the functions and responsibilities of the new role on Monday, the Pentagon said on Tuesday. Kash Patel, currently on the National Security Council staff, has been named by Acting Secretary Miller as his Chief of Staff,? the Pentagon announced on Tuesday. He replaces Jen Stewart, who resigned earlier in the day. Also read: Biden picks Indian American to lead the new task force to tackle COVID crisis in US Acting Under Secretary of Defence for Policy James Anderson, Under Secretary of Defence for Intelligence and Security Joseph Kernan have submitted letters of resignation. Kashyap Pramod Patel, or popularly known as Kash Patel, had previously served as senior counsel for Counterterrorism at the House Permanent Select Committee.'' In June 2019, Patel, 39, was appointed as senior director of Counterterrorism Directorate of the National Security Council (NSC) in the White House. New York-born Patel has his roots in Gujarat. However, his parents are from East Africa, the mother from Tanzania and father from Uganda. They came to the US from Canada in 1970. The family moved to Queens in New York which is often called as Little India -- in the late 70s. After his schooling in New York and college in Richmond, Virginia, and law school in New York, Patel went to Florida where he was a state public defender for four years and then federal public defender for another four years. From Florida, he moved to Washington DC as a terrorism prosecutor at the Department of Justice. Here he was an international terrorism prosecutor for about three and a half years. During this period, he worked on cases all over the world, in America in East Africa as well as in Uganda and Kenya. While still employed by the Department of Justice, he went as a civilian to join Special Operations Command at the Department of Defence. At the Pentagon, he sat as the Department of Justice's lawyer with Special Forces people and worked interagency collaborative targeting operations around the world. After a year in this sensitive position, Congressman Davin Nunes, Chairman of the House Permanent Select on Intelligence Committee, pulled him as senior counsel on counterterrorism.

Indian-American Kash Patel appointed Chief of Staff to acting US Defence Secretary

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday hit out at family-run parties saying they are the biggest threat to the democracy and rued that even a national party had fallen prey to it.

Addressing party workers at a felicitation function after the BJP's victory in Bihar elections and various bypolls, he asserted that the only mantra for his party's victory was "Sabka saath, sabka vikas and sabka vishwas".

Modi said the poll results in Bihar and other bye-elections across the country have made it clear that people will now support only those who work honestly for development.

"People have decided that development alone will be basis of national politics in 21st century," he said.

Modi also said those who cannot fight the BJP democratically have resorted to murdering the party's workers.

"This killing game cannot work in democracy," he said.

Lauding the people of the country for reposing their faith in the BJP, the prime minister also thanked and praised the Election Commission, security forces and administration for peaceful and successful conduct of elections.

These poll results have broadened the outcome of Lok Sabha elections, the prime minister said referring to BJP's success in polls and bypolls across the country.

"BJP is the only national party in which poor, dalits, deprived see their representation; only BJP understands need of every section, region. The poll results have endorsed the way we have tackled COVID-19 pandemic," he said.

Modi also said that women across the country are the 'Silent voters' which support the BJP across all rural and urban regions.

Amid a festival-like atmosphere with the crowd chanting 'Modi hai to mumkin hai (Modi can make it possible), BJP president J P Nadda earlier said at the event that people of Bihar have put their stamp of approval on Modi's work to deal with COVID-19 and help poor during pandemic.

He also said Bihar has chosen 'vikas raaj' over 'goonda raaj', 'DBT raaj' over 'loot raaj' and LED over lantern: J P Nadda to BJP workers.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday hit out at family-run parties saying they are the biggest threat to the democracy and rued that even a national party had fallen prey to it.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday hit out at family-run parties saying they are the biggest threat to the democracy and rued that even a national party had fallen prey to it. Addressing party workers at a felicitation function after the BJP's victory in Bihar elections and various bypolls, he asserted that the only mantra for his party's victory was "Sabka saath, sabka vikas and sabka vishwas". Modi said the poll results in Bihar and other bye-elections across the country have made it clear that people will now support only those who work honestly for development. "People have decided that development alone will be basis of national politics in 21st century," he said. Modi also said those who cannot fight the BJP democratically have resorted to murdering the party's workers. "This killing game cannot work in democracy," he said. Lauding the people of the country for reposing their faith in the BJP, the prime minister also thanked and praised the Election Commission, security forces and administration for peaceful and successful conduct of elections. These poll results have broadened the outcome of Lok Sabha elections, the prime minister said referring to BJP's success in polls and bypolls across the country. "BJP is the only national party in which poor, dalits, deprived see their representation; only BJP understands need of every section, region. The poll results have endorsed the way we have tackled COVID-19 pandemic," he said. Modi also said that women across the country are the 'Silent voters' which support the BJP across all rural and urban regions. Amid a festival-like atmosphere with the crowd chanting 'Modi hai to mumkin hai (Modi can make it possible), BJP president J P Nadda earlier said at the event that people of Bihar have put their stamp of approval on Modi's work to deal with COVID-19 and help poor during pandemic. He also said Bihar has chosen 'vikas raaj' over 'goonda raaj', 'DBT raaj' over 'loot raaj' and LED over lantern: J P Nadda to BJP workers.

Family-run parties biggest threat to India's democracy: PM Modi after Bihar win

Italian envoy to India has said his country is working with India for a trading system that is "equitable and free".

Speaking exclusively to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, envoy Vincenzo De Luca talked about the India-Italy virtual summit that took place last week saying, "We have defined our working program for the next five years" and "this is the most important achievement.". He spoke on several issues from the pandemic to India-EU ties.

WION: What is the key outcome of the virtual summit that took place between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Italian PM Giuseppe Conte?

Vincenzo De Luca: The virtual summit between President Conte and Prime Minister Modi marks an important milestone in the bilateral relations between Italy and India.

The two prime ministers had a thorough exchange that ranged from global to regional and bilateral issues. The results of the meeting were summarized&nbsp;in the Joint Declaration and Plan of Action, which contains the priority areas and strategic goals on which the bilateral partnership for the period 2020-2025 will be based upon. We have defined our working program for the next five years and I believe this is the most important achievement.

WION: On the COVID-19&nbsp;crisis, how have both countries collaborated?

Vincenzo De Luca: Italy and India have worked extensively together since the outbreak of COVID-19. Among other initiatives, we have co-organized two webinars aimed at exchanging experiences and exploring areas of cooperation for future projects, especially in the field of drug repurposing and immunization.

We will also work together in the multilateral arena, in particular in view of the consecutive presidencies of the G20. We both believe in an efficient multilateralism, one that is capable of responding to the needs of a multipolar world. Tackling the current health situation is among the main tasks that the international community will deal with in the near future and this is why we must rely on a reinforced role of the World Health Organization.

WION: How much alternate supply chain was the focus of the summit?

Vincenzo De Luca: We are aware that a sustainable economic recovery post-COVID 19 will depend on the activation of solid and reliable global supply chains and enhanced connectivity. In this framework, we are confident on working with our Indian partners for a reinforced trade system that encourages equitable and free trade.

WION: How do you see India's outreach to Europe? We saw visits by Indian FS. Now the virtual summit...

Vincenzo De Luca: We are very happy about the successful completion of the 15th India-EU Summit held in July 2020 and are looking forward to the implementation of "India-EU Strategic Partnership: Roadmap to 2025” which will intensify India-EU partnership in several areas including trade, investment, connectivity, digital technologies&nbsp;and climate.

Italian envoy to India has said his country is working with India for a trading system that is "equitable and free". Speaking exclusively to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, envoy Vincenzo De Luca talked about the India-Italy virtual summit that took place last week saying, "We have defined our working program for the next five years" and "this is the most important achievement.

Italian envoy to India has said his country is working with India for a trading system that is "equitable and free". Speaking exclusively to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, envoy Vincenzo De Luca talked about the India-Italy virtual summit that took place last week saying, "We have defined our working program for the next five years" and "this is the most important achievement.". He spoke on several issues from the pandemic to India-EU ties. WION: What is the key outcome of the virtual summit that took place between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Italian PM Giuseppe Conte? Vincenzo De Luca: The virtual summit between President Conte and Prime Minister Modi marks an important milestone in the bilateral relations between Italy and India. The two prime ministers had a thorough exchange that ranged from global to regional and bilateral issues. The results of the meeting were summarized in the Joint Declaration and Plan of Action, which contains the priority areas and strategic goals on which the bilateral partnership for the period 2020-2025 will be based upon. We have defined our working program for the next five years and I believe this is the most important achievement. WION: On the COVID-19 crisis, how have both countries collaborated? Vincenzo De Luca: Italy and India have worked extensively together since the outbreak of COVID-19. Among other initiatives, we have co-organized two webinars aimed at exchanging experiences and exploring areas of cooperation for future projects, especially in the field of drug repurposing and immunization. We will also work together in the multilateral arena, in particular in view of the consecutive presidencies of the G20. We both believe in an efficient multilateralism, one that is capable of responding to the needs of a multipolar world. Tackling the current health situation is among the main tasks that the international community will deal with in the near future and this is why we must rely on a reinforced role of the World Health Organization. WION: How much alternate supply chain was the focus of the summit? Vincenzo De Luca: We are aware that a sustainable economic recovery post-COVID 19 will depend on the activation of solid and reliable global supply chains and enhanced connectivity. In this framework, we are confident on working with our Indian partners for a reinforced trade system that encourages equitable and free trade. WION: How do you see India's outreach to Europe? We saw visits by Indian FS. Now the virtual summit... Vincenzo De Luca: We are very happy about the successful completion of the 15th India-EU Summit held in July 2020 and are looking forward to the implementation of "India-EU Strategic Partnership: Roadmap to 2025” which will intensify India-EU partnership in several areas including trade, investment, connectivity, digital technologies and climate.

Working with India for an 'equitable & free' trading system: Italian envoy Vincenzo De Luca

The ruling BJP came out with a convincing win as it retained six of the seven seats in bypolls on Tuesday. CM Yogi Adityanath said the exceptional performance of the BJP in the bypolls give a "clear indication" of the party's chances in the upcoming 2022 state Assembly elections.

Speaking to reporters, the Chief Minister said, "The BJP has repeated its poll performance of the 2017 Assembly polls and 2019 Lok Sabha elections. These are clear indications that the party will perform well again in the upcoming 2022 Assembly elections. I thank the people for coming forward to vote."

BJP candidate Sangeeta Chauhan won in Naugawan Sadat, Usha Sirohi in Bulandshahr, Prem Pal Dhangar in Tundla, Shrikant Katiyar in Bangarmau, Satya Prakash Mani Tripathi in Deoria and Upendra Nath Paswan in Ghatampur, according to the Election Commission. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Samajwadi Party's Lucky Yadav won Malhani, the seat which was represented by his father Parasnath Yadav, whose death necessitated the by-election.

He defeated independent candidate Dhananjay Singh by 4,632 votes. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

A tough see-saw battle was fought for the Naugawan Sadat seat held earlier by Chetan Chauhan, the former cricketer who was a minister in Yogi Adityanath's BJP government. &nbsp;&nbsp;

SP's Javed Abbas, who was trailing in the morning pushed his BJP rival, Chetan Chauhan's wife Sangeeta Chauhan, to the second spot by 3,314 votes for a while.

The BJP candidate at one point had a slim 175-vote lead, but later cruised ahead to win by 15,077 votes.

BJP candidate Satyaprakash Mani Tripathi won Deoria, defeating SP's Brahma Shankar Tripathi by 20,089 votes.

Unnao's Bangermau seat also went to the ruling party with Shrikant Katiyar defeating Congress candidate Arti Bajpai by 31,398 votes.

In Bulandshahr, BJP's Usha Sirohi defeated Bahujan Samaj Party's Mohammad Yunus by 21,702 votes. Her party colleague Upendra Nath Paswan won against Congress candidate Kripa Shankar by 23,820 votes in Ghatampur.

BJP's Prempal Singh Dhangar defeated SP's Mahraj Singh Dhangar by 17,683 votes in Tundla. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

The bypolls for the seven UP seats recorded a voter turnout of 53 per cent on November 3, with 88 candidates in the fray. &nbsp; &nbsp;

The Naugawan Sadat seat fell vacant after the death of Minister Chetan Chauhan, who succumbed to COVID-19.

The Ghatampur constituency in Kanpur Nagar district was held by another minister, Kamal Rani Varun, who too died of the same cause. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The Tundla seat fell vacant after its MLA S P Singh Baghel was elected to the Lok Sabha.

The Bangarmau seat in Unnao was vacated by BJP MLA Kuldeep Singh Sengar after his conviction in a rape case. &nbsp; &nbsp;

The bypolls to the Bulandshahr and Deoria seats were necessitated by the deaths of BJP MLAs Virendra Singh Sirohi and Janmejay Singh. &nbsp; &nbsp;

Bhim Army chief Chandrashekhar Azad's Azad Samaj Party had fielded Mohammad Yameen from Bulandshahr to test its electoral popularity. &nbsp; &nbsp;

The Bulandshahr seat had the highest number of 18 candidates while Ghatampur seat had the lowest of six. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Sixteen candidates were in the fray in Malhani, 14 each in Naugawan Sadat and Deoria and 10 each in Bangarmau and Tundla. &nbsp; &nbsp;

With the BJP and the SP retaining their seats, the 403-member assembly will now again have 310 MLAs from the BJP and 49 from the SP. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The House also has 18 members from the BSP, nine from Apna Dal (Sonelal), seven from Congress, four from Suheldev Bharatiya Samaj Party and five MLAs who are independents or belong to smaller parties. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The Allahabad High Court had asked the Election Commission to also hold bypolls in Suar after annulling the election of Abdullah Azam Khan, son of SP MP Mohammad Azam Khan, ruling that he was underage. &nbsp; &nbsp;

But the Supreme Court recently stayed its directions.

Meanwhile, elated over the results, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said under the leadership and guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and completely set aside all speculations in Bihar, the public has proved that "Modi hai to mumkin" (if there is Modi, then it is possible).

Yogi said that the BJP has repeated its electoral performance of 2017.

"The BJP in this bypolls has given hints about the future polls," he said, adding the results are a proof of people's faith in welfare programmes of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Meanwhile, Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav alleged the misuse of official machinery and irregularities in the elections.

“The BJP keeps conspiring to win elections but the Samajwadi Party will now start a campaign taking all sections of society along to save democracy," the SP chief said, calling for transparency in polls.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The ruling BJP came out with a convincing win as it retained six of the seven seats in bypolls on Tuesday. CM Yogi Adityanath said the exceptional performance of the BJP in the bypolls give a "clear indication" of the party's chances in the upcoming 2022 state Assembly elections.

The ruling BJP came out with a convincing win as it retained six of the seven seats in bypolls on Tuesday. CM Yogi Adityanath said the exceptional performance of the BJP in the bypolls give a "clear indication" of the party's chances in the upcoming 2022 state Assembly elections. Speaking to reporters, the Chief Minister said, "The BJP has repeated its poll performance of the 2017 Assembly polls and 2019 Lok Sabha elections. These are clear indications that the party will perform well again in the upcoming 2022 Assembly elections. I thank the people for coming forward to vote." BJP candidate Sangeeta Chauhan won in Naugawan Sadat, Usha Sirohi in Bulandshahr, Prem Pal Dhangar in Tundla, Shrikant Katiyar in Bangarmau, Satya Prakash Mani Tripathi in Deoria and Upendra Nath Paswan in Ghatampur, according to the Election Commission. Samajwadi Party's Lucky Yadav won Malhani, the seat which was represented by his father Parasnath Yadav, whose death necessitated the by-election. He defeated independent candidate Dhananjay Singh by 4,632 votes. A tough see-saw battle was fought for the Naugawan Sadat seat held earlier by Chetan Chauhan, the former cricketer who was a minister in Yogi Adityanath's BJP government. SP's Javed Abbas, who was trailing in the morning pushed his BJP rival, Chetan Chauhan's wife Sangeeta Chauhan, to the second spot by 3,314 votes for a while. The BJP candidate at one point had a slim 175-vote lead, but later cruised ahead to win by 15,077 votes. BJP candidate Satyaprakash Mani Tripathi won Deoria, defeating SP's Brahma Shankar Tripathi by 20,089 votes. Unnao's Bangermau seat also went to the ruling party with Shrikant Katiyar defeating Congress candidate Arti Bajpai by 31,398 votes. In Bulandshahr, BJP's Usha Sirohi defeated Bahujan Samaj Party's Mohammad Yunus by 21,702 votes. Her party colleague Upendra Nath Paswan won against Congress candidate Kripa Shankar by 23,820 votes in Ghatampur. BJP's Prempal Singh Dhangar defeated SP's Mahraj Singh Dhangar by 17,683 votes in Tundla. The bypolls for the seven UP seats recorded a voter turnout of 53 per cent on November 3, with 88 candidates in the fray. The Naugawan Sadat seat fell vacant after the death of Minister Chetan Chauhan, who succumbed to COVID-19. The Ghatampur constituency in Kanpur Nagar district was held by another minister, Kamal Rani Varun, who too died of the same cause. The Tundla seat fell vacant after its MLA S P Singh Baghel was elected to the Lok Sabha. The Bangarmau seat in Unnao was vacated by BJP MLA Kuldeep Singh Sengar after his conviction in a rape case. The bypolls to the Bulandshahr and Deoria seats were necessitated by the deaths of BJP MLAs Virendra Singh Sirohi and Janmejay Singh. Bhim Army chief Chandrashekhar Azad's Azad Samaj Party had fielded Mohammad Yameen from Bulandshahr to test its electoral popularity. The Bulandshahr seat had the highest number of 18 candidates while Ghatampur seat had the lowest of six. Sixteen candidates were in the fray in Malhani, 14 each in Naugawan Sadat and Deoria and 10 each in Bangarmau and Tundla. With the BJP and the SP retaining their seats, the 403-member assembly will now again have 310 MLAs from the BJP and 49 from the SP. The House also has 18 members from the BSP, nine from Apna Dal (Sonelal), seven from Congress, four from Suheldev Bharatiya Samaj Party and five MLAs who are independents or belong to smaller parties. The Allahabad High Court had asked the Election Commission to also hold bypolls in Suar after annulling the election of Abdullah Azam Khan, son of SP MP Mohammad Azam Khan, ruling that he was underage. But the Supreme Court recently stayed its directions. Meanwhile, elated over the results, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said under the leadership and guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and completely set aside all speculations in Bihar, the public has proved that "Modi hai to mumkin" (if there is Modi, then it is possible). Yogi said that the BJP has repeated its electoral performance of 2017. "The BJP in this bypolls has given hints about the future polls," he said, adding the results are a proof of people's faith in welfare programmes of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Meanwhile, Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav alleged the misuse of official machinery and irregularities in the elections. “The BJP keeps conspiring to win elections but the Samajwadi Party will now start a campaign taking all sections of society along to save democracy," the SP chief said, calling for transparency in polls. (With inputs from agencies)

CM Yogi's midas touch: BJP retains 6 UP seats in bypolls

The 17th India ASEAN summit will take place on Thursday in a virtual format with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and all the ten ASEAN leaders participating in the meet.&nbsp;

A release by the Ministry of External Affairs said, "the Summit will review the status of ASEAN-India Strategic Partnership and take stock of progress made in key areas such as connectivity, maritime cooperation, trade and commerce, education and capacity building etc."

Indo-Pacific will be the key focus of the virtual meet, given how New Delhi has been reiterating ASEAN's centrality in the region. During last year's summit in Bangkok,&nbsp;Indian PM had&nbsp;launched the Indo-Pacific Oceans initiative (IPOI) that focuses on&nbsp;maritime security, trade, connectivity, disaster risk reduction.

In fact, New Delhi was quick to welcome ASEAN Outlook on Indo-Pacific.

The release explained, "ASEAN-India Strategic Partnership stands on a strong foundation of shared geographical, historical and civilizational ties. India’s Act East Policy, underlining ASEAN centrality, reflects the importance India attaches to engagement with ASEAN."

COVID-19 pandemic undoubtedly will be one of the main talking point, with cooperation on&nbsp;post-pandemic economic recovery being a key point of discussion.&nbsp;

The 17th India ASEAN summit will take place on Thursday in a virtual format with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and all the ten ASEAN leaders participating in the meet.

The 17th India ASEAN summit will take place on Thursday in a virtual format with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and all the ten ASEAN leaders participating in the meet. A release by the Ministry of External Affairs said, "the Summit will review the status of ASEAN-India Strategic Partnership and take stock of progress made in key areas such as connectivity, maritime cooperation, trade and commerce, education and capacity building etc." Indo-Pacific will be the key focus of the virtual meet, given how New Delhi has been reiterating ASEAN's centrality in the region. During last year's summit in Bangkok, Indian PM had launched the Indo-Pacific Oceans initiative (IPOI) that focuses on maritime security, trade, connectivity, disaster risk reduction. In fact, New Delhi was quick to welcome ASEAN Outlook on Indo-Pacific. The release explained, "ASEAN-India Strategic Partnership stands on a strong foundation of shared geographical, historical and civilizational ties. India’s Act East Policy, underlining ASEAN centrality, reflects the importance India attaches to engagement with ASEAN." COVID-19 pandemic undoubtedly will be one of the main talking point, with cooperation on post-pandemic economic recovery being a key point of discussion.

With Indo-Pacific in focus, India-ASEAN virtual summit to take place on Thursday

India's pollution control board has temporarily banned some construction activity in New Delhi and called for stringent measures to stop farm fires causing air quality to plummet and leaving a toxic haze.

The Indian capital has been facing one of the worst spells of air pollution in years, which doctors and environmentalists say is worsening the health effects of a third wave of coronavirus infections.

Delhi's air quality index was "very poor" at 334 on a scale of 500 on Wednesday. That was an improvement from severe conditions in the past three days after wind picked up and dispersed pollutants. But air quality is forecast to deteriorate closer to the Hindu festival Diwali this weekend, the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) said in a notice.

The CPCB ordered a shutdown of asphalt mixing plants and stone crushers until Nov. 17 in the capital and satellite cities, and told city authorities to ensure stricter enforcement of dust control at all construction sites and penalise violators. Other measures included stepping up mechanised cleaning of roads and checks on rubbish burning.

Beyond the capital itself, the pollution board ordered the state governments of nearby Punjab and Haryana to take "immediate stringent actions" to curb stubble burning, which has been a major source of air pollution this season.

"These are temporary measures where the big challenge would be enforcement," said Anumita Roy Chowdhury, an executive director of research and advocacy at the Delhi-based Centre for Science and Environment.

"But, the awareness level among people needs to go up dramatically this year because of COVID-19."

On Monday, India's main environment court, the National Green Tribunal, forbid the sale and use of firecrackers, a traditional part of Diwali celebrations.

India's pollution control board has temporarily banned some construction activity in New Delhi and called for stringent measures to stop farm fires causing air quality to plummet and leaving a toxic haze.

India's pollution control board has temporarily banned some construction activity in New Delhi and called for stringent measures to stop farm fires causing air quality to plummet and leaving a toxic haze. The Indian capital has been facing one of the worst spells of air pollution in years, which doctors and environmentalists say is worsening the health effects of a third wave of coronavirus infections. Delhi's air quality index was "very poor" at 334 on a scale of 500 on Wednesday. That was an improvement from severe conditions in the past three days after wind picked up and dispersed pollutants. But air quality is forecast to deteriorate closer to the Hindu festival Diwali this weekend, the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) said in a notice. The CPCB ordered a shutdown of asphalt mixing plants and stone crushers until Nov. 17 in the capital and satellite cities, and told city authorities to ensure stricter enforcement of dust control at all construction sites and penalise violators. Other measures included stepping up mechanised cleaning of roads and checks on rubbish burning. Beyond the capital itself, the pollution board ordered the state governments of nearby Punjab and Haryana to take "immediate stringent actions" to curb stubble burning, which has been a major source of air pollution this season. "These are temporary measures where the big challenge would be enforcement," said Anumita Roy Chowdhury, an executive director of research and advocacy at the Delhi-based Centre for Science and Environment. "But, the awareness level among people needs to go up dramatically this year because of COVID-19." On Monday, India's main environment court, the National Green Tribunal, forbid the sale and use of firecrackers, a traditional part of Diwali celebrations.

Delhi briefly bans some construction to reduce deadly pollution

The ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) obtained the majority in Bihar assembly elections with BJP putting up a winning performance.

The BJP emerged victorious on as many as 74 seats while the JD (U) managed to win on 43 seats. Smaller allies, the HAM and the VIP won four seats each.

The Lok Janshakti Party, which had quit the NDA in the state in the run-up to the October-November elections, ended up with one seat.

Its defeat notwithstanding, the RJD, whose campaign Tejashwi Yadav, the younger son and heir to party supremo Lalu Prasad helmed, emerged as the single largest party with 75 seats.

Despite the slump in numbers, Kumar, who was declared the NDA's chief ministerial candidate by the BJP brass, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and party chief J P Nadda, is set to take over the reins of the government.

Much of Kumar's plight can be blamed on the damage Chirag Paswan's LJP inflicted on his JD(U). Down in the dumps with just one MLA, the party spoiled the JD(U)'s chances in at least 30 seats.

JD(U) spokesperson K C Tyagi told PTI in New Delhi that a "sinister" campaign was run against Nitish Kumar as part of a "conspiracy".

"Apne bhi shamil the aur begane bhi (Our own also harmed us along with the outsiders)," he said, without taking any names.

He, however, expressed confidence that Kumar will become the chief minister again, noting that top BJP leaders including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah have made it clear that he will head the government if the ruling NDA retains power.

Bihar BJP president Sanjay Jaiswal voiced similar views in Patna when he said in Patna "the issue has been cleared by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and party chief J P Nadda much before the elections".

Apart from BJP's 74 seats and JD(U)'s 43, the ruling alliance partners HAM and Vikassheel Insaan Party (VIP) won four seats each.

The drastic fall in the number of JD (U) MLAs, however, will likely make the BJP, which hitherto played a second fiddle to Kumar, more assertive, and it may insist on a larger share in the ministerial pie and greater say in governance.

Apart from Kumar's creditable performance as an administrator, the multiple claimants to Muslim votes, including the Grand Democratic Secular Front (GDSF) comprising Asaduddin Owaisi's AIMIM, BSP and Upendra Kushwaha's RLSP worked in NDA's favour and scuppered the Mahagathbandhan's chances. Muslim and Yadav voters have for long formed the bedrock of the RJD's support base.

Owaisi's AIMIM emerged as a surprise package of the election, winning five seats. The party had gained a foothold winning a seat in a by-election in Bihar earlier, but made significant inroads into the Seemanchanchal region which has a large presence of Muslim voters. Its ally BSP also clinched one seat.

Kumar, who has a clean image and is considered incorruptible, has been credited with ridding the state of the "jungle raj", as the Lalu-Rabri government of 15 years preceding 2005 is often described by its critics.

The JD(U) leader also earned praise for his impetus on infrastructure development and improving health care system and education.

Besides, Modi's enduring charisma not only powered the alliance's victory but also helped the BJP to pre-eminent position in the NDA in Bihar for the first time and cut his former bete noire Nitish Kumar, once considered a secular alternative to him, to size.

The election also saw the coming of age of Tejashwi Yadav, who came across as an indefatigable leader after RJD's unprecedented drubbing in the Lok Sabha polls last year when it failed to open its account.

The NDA had clinched all but one of the 40 seats in the state, leaving the young leader in torpor and his party demoralised. Tejashwi's ability to lead the party in the absence of his charismatic father and party supremo Lalu Prasad, who had landed in jail after conviction in fodder scam cases, was called into question.

However, after the assembly elections were announced, he steeled himself for the struggle ahead and almost single handedly brought the five party Grand Alliance surprisingly close to power in a fight where an army of battle hardened veterans were arrayed against him.

A major upshot of the gruelling electoral tussle between the two alliances was the resurgence of Left, which aligned with the RJD-Congress combine after being pushed to the margins in the post-Mandal era politics of Bihar.

The biggest gainer was the CPI-ML, which clinched 12 seats, followed by the CPI and CPI-M (two each). Barring the CPI-ML, which had three seats in the outgoing assembly, none of the Left parties had a presence in the House.

Brothers Tejashwi Yadav and Tej Pratap won the Raghopur and Hasanpur seats with impressive margins of 38,174 and 21,139 votes respectively.

Prominent losers from the RJD included Abdul Bari Siddiqui, a former state party chief, and Lalu Prasad's Man Friday Bhola Yadav who lost from Keoti and Hayaghat seats in Darbhanga respectively.

Senior Bihar minister Vijendra Prasad Yadav of JD(U) won from Supual, and Niraj Singh Babloo of the BJP, a cousin of actor Sushant Singh Rajput, whose mysterious death became an election issue, retained the Chhatapur seat.

State assembly speaker Vijay Kumar Chaudhary of the JD(U) was among the victors.

Ace former shooter and Commonwealth gold medalist Shreyasi Singh of BJP won the Jamui seat by over 41,000 votes, but veteran socialist leader Sharad Yadav's daughter Subhashini lost in Bihariganj.

HAM president Jitan Ram Manjhi defeated former state assembly speaker Uday Narayan Chaudhary in Imamganj of Gaya district.

(With inputs from agencies)

The ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) obtained the majority in Bihar assembly elections with BJP putting up a winning performance. The BJP emerged victorious on as many as 74 seats while the JD (U) managed to win on 43 seats.

The ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) obtained the majority in Bihar assembly elections with BJP putting up a winning performance. The BJP emerged victorious on as many as 74 seats while the JD (U) managed to win on 43 seats. Smaller allies, the HAM and the VIP won four seats each. The Lok Janshakti Party, which had quit the NDA in the state in the run-up to the October-November elections, ended up with one seat. Its defeat notwithstanding, the RJD, whose campaign Tejashwi Yadav, the younger son and heir to party supremo Lalu Prasad helmed, emerged as the single largest party with 75 seats. Despite the slump in numbers, Kumar, who was declared the NDA's chief ministerial candidate by the BJP brass, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and party chief J P Nadda, is set to take over the reins of the government. Much of Kumar's plight can be blamed on the damage Chirag Paswan's LJP inflicted on his JD(U). Down in the dumps with just one MLA, the party spoiled the JD(U)'s chances in at least 30 seats. JD(U) spokesperson K C Tyagi told PTI in New Delhi that a "sinister" campaign was run against Nitish Kumar as part of a "conspiracy". "Apne bhi shamil the aur begane bhi (Our own also harmed us along with the outsiders)," he said, without taking any names. He, however, expressed confidence that Kumar will become the chief minister again, noting that top BJP leaders including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah have made it clear that he will head the government if the ruling NDA retains power. Bihar BJP president Sanjay Jaiswal voiced similar views in Patna when he said in Patna "the issue has been cleared by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and party chief J P Nadda much before the elections". Apart from BJP's 74 seats and JD(U)'s 43, the ruling alliance partners HAM and Vikassheel Insaan Party (VIP) won four seats each. The drastic fall in the number of JD (U) MLAs, however, will likely make the BJP, which hitherto played a second fiddle to Kumar, more assertive, and it may insist on a larger share in the ministerial pie and greater say in governance. Apart from Kumar's creditable performance as an administrator, the multiple claimants to Muslim votes, including the Grand Democratic Secular Front (GDSF) comprising Asaduddin Owaisi's AIMIM, BSP and Upendra Kushwaha's RLSP worked in NDA's favour and scuppered the Mahagathbandhan's chances. Muslim and Yadav voters have for long formed the bedrock of the RJD's support base. Owaisi's AIMIM emerged as a surprise package of the election, winning five seats. The party had gained a foothold winning a seat in a by-election in Bihar earlier, but made significant inroads into the Seemanchanchal region which has a large presence of Muslim voters. Its ally BSP also clinched one seat. Kumar, who has a clean image and is considered incorruptible, has been credited with ridding the state of the "jungle raj", as the Lalu-Rabri government of 15 years preceding 2005 is often described by its critics. The JD(U) leader also earned praise for his impetus on infrastructure development and improving health care system and education. Besides, Modi's enduring charisma not only powered the alliance's victory but also helped the BJP to pre-eminent position in the NDA in Bihar for the first time and cut his former bete noire Nitish Kumar, once considered a secular alternative to him, to size. The election also saw the coming of age of Tejashwi Yadav, who came across as an indefatigable leader after RJD's unprecedented drubbing in the Lok Sabha polls last year when it failed to open its account. The NDA had clinched all but one of the 40 seats in the state, leaving the young leader in torpor and his party demoralised. Tejashwi's ability to lead the party in the absence of his charismatic father and party supremo Lalu Prasad, who had landed in jail after conviction in fodder scam cases, was called into question. However, after the assembly elections were announced, he steeled himself for the struggle ahead and almost single handedly brought the five party Grand Alliance surprisingly close to power in a fight where an army of battle hardened veterans were arrayed against him. A major upshot of the gruelling electoral tussle between the two alliances was the resurgence of Left, which aligned with the RJD-Congress combine after being pushed to the margins in the post-Mandal era politics of Bihar. The biggest gainer was the CPI-ML, which clinched 12 seats, followed by the CPI and CPI-M (two each). Barring the CPI-ML, which had three seats in the outgoing assembly, none of the Left parties had a presence in the House. Brothers Tejashwi Yadav and Tej Pratap won the Raghopur and Hasanpur seats with impressive margins of 38,174 and 21,139 votes respectively. Prominent losers from the RJD included Abdul Bari Siddiqui, a former state party chief, and Lalu Prasad's Man Friday Bhola Yadav who lost from Keoti and Hayaghat seats in Darbhanga respectively. Senior Bihar minister Vijendra Prasad Yadav of JD(U) won from Supual, and Niraj Singh Babloo of the BJP, a cousin of actor Sushant Singh Rajput, whose mysterious death became an election issue, retained the Chhatapur seat. State assembly speaker Vijay Kumar Chaudhary of the JD(U) was among the victors. Ace former shooter and Commonwealth gold medalist Shreyasi Singh of BJP won the Jamui seat by over 41,000 votes, but veteran socialist leader Sharad Yadav's daughter Subhashini lost in Bihariganj. HAM president Jitan Ram Manjhi defeated former state assembly speaker Uday Narayan Chaudhary in Imamganj of Gaya district. (With inputs from agencies)

Bihar election results 2020: NDA gets absolute majority with 125 seats, Mahagathbandhan settles with 110 seats

In a major development, the ongoing India-China border conflict may be resolved soon as the armies of the two countries have agreed for disengagement from parts of the Eastern Ladakh sector under which they would be moving back to their respective positions before April-May timeframe earlier this year. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/china-orders-advancing-the-construction-of-rail-line-in-tibet-close-to-arunachal-pradesh-341719">Also read | China orders advancing the construction of rail line in Tibet, close to Arunachal Pradesh</a> 
 
The disengagement plan was discussed between the two sides during the 8th Corps Commander-level talks which were held on November 6 in Chushul. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/beijing-doesnt-recognize-ladakh-union-territory-and-arunachal-pradesh-chinese-ministry-of-foreign-affairs-334959">Also read | Beijing doesn’t recognize Ladakh Union Territory and Arunachal Pradesh: Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs</a>

As per the disengagement plan which is to be carried out in three steps in one week from the talks in the Pangong lake area, the armoured vehicles including tanks and armoured personnel carriers were to be moved back from their frontline deployment to a significant distance from the Line of Actual Control (LAC) by both sides, sources told ANI. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/wion-has-got-mail-from-china-337567">Also read | Wion has got mail. From China</a>

As per the discussions, the disengagement of tanks and armoured personnel carriers was to be carried out within one day. The talks were held on November 6 in which External Affairs Ministry's Joint Secretary Naveen Shrivastava and Brigadier Ghai of Directorate General of Military Operations had taken part.

In the second step to be carried out near the northern bank on the Pangong Lake, both sides were supposed to withdraw around 30 per cent of troops every day for three days. The Indian side would becoming close to its administrative Dhan Singh Thapa post while the Chinese had consented to go back to their position east of Finger 8.

In the third and last step, the two sides were to withdraw from their respective positions from the frontline along the southern bank of Pangong Lake area which includes the heights and territories around Chushul and Rezang La area.

The two sides had also agreed for a joint mechanism to verify the progress in the disengagement process through delegation meetings as well as using Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs).

The Indian side is moving very carefully on the issue as there is a lot of trust deficit with China after the Galwan valley clash in June this year in which 20 Indian soldiers had lost their lives and many Chinese army soldiers, including their Commanding Officer, were killed by the Indian troops.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's trusted security team, including National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval, Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Bipin Rawat, Army Chief General Manoj Mukund Naravane and Air Force chief RKS Bhadauria, had taken strong military measures like occupying the dominating heights along the southern and northern bank of Pangong Lake on the LAC including the Ane La and Que La features.

China had mobilised its troops in a massive deployment along the LAC and transgressed into multiple Indian locations including patrolling points 14, 15, 15 A, 17 and 17A and the Finger area in April-May timeframe in the 14 Corps area of responsibility with Lt Gen Harinder Singh as Corps Commander and Maj Gen Abhijit Bapat as the 3 Infantry Division Commander based out of Karu.

India gave a huge response as it moved close to 60,000 troops for forward deployments apart from bringing in reserve divisions from the nearby Himachal Pradesh sector and plains. The Indian Air Force made rapid deployments to the frontline where its fighter jets and attack choppers were in ready to fire mode while its Garud Special Forces were deployed in the approach areas with Igla air defence systems to take out any approaching enemy aircraft.

In a major development, the ongoing India-China border conflict may be resolved soon as the armies of the two countries have agreed for disengagement from parts of the Eastern Ladakh sector under which they would be moving back to their respective positions before April-May timeframe earlier this year.

In a major development, the ongoing India-China border conflict may be resolved soon as the armies of the two countries have agreed for disengagement from parts of the Eastern Ladakh sector under which they would be moving back to their respective positions before April-May timeframe earlier this year. Also read | China orders advancing the construction of rail line in Tibet, close to Arunachal Pradesh The disengagement plan was discussed between the two sides during the 8th Corps Commander-level talks which were held on November 6 in Chushul. Also read | Beijing doesn’t recognize Ladakh Union Territory and Arunachal Pradesh: Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs As per the disengagement plan which is to be carried out in three steps in one week from the talks in the Pangong lake area, the armoured vehicles including tanks and armoured personnel carriers were to be moved back from their frontline deployment to a significant distance from the Line of Actual Control (LAC) by both sides, sources told ANI. Also read | Wion has got mail. From China As per the discussions, the disengagement of tanks and armoured personnel carriers was to be carried out within one day. The talks were held on November 6 in which External Affairs Ministry's Joint Secretary Naveen Shrivastava and Brigadier Ghai of Directorate General of Military Operations had taken part. In the second step to be carried out near the northern bank on the Pangong Lake, both sides were supposed to withdraw around 30 per cent of troops every day for three days. The Indian side would becoming close to its administrative Dhan Singh Thapa post while the Chinese had consented to go back to their position east of Finger 8. In the third and last step, the two sides were to withdraw from their respective positions from the frontline along the southern bank of Pangong Lake area which includes the heights and territories around Chushul and Rezang La area. The two sides had also agreed for a joint mechanism to verify the progress in the disengagement process through delegation meetings as well as using Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). The Indian side is moving very carefully on the issue as there is a lot of trust deficit with China after the Galwan valley clash in June this year in which 20 Indian soldiers had lost their lives and many Chinese army soldiers, including their Commanding Officer, were killed by the Indian troops. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's trusted security team, including National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval, Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Bipin Rawat, Army Chief General Manoj Mukund Naravane and Air Force chief RKS Bhadauria, had taken strong military measures like occupying the dominating heights along the southern and northern bank of Pangong Lake on the LAC including the Ane La and Que La features. China had mobilised its troops in a massive deployment along the LAC and transgressed into multiple Indian locations including patrolling points 14, 15, 15 A, 17 and 17A and the Finger area in April-May timeframe in the 14 Corps area of responsibility with Lt Gen Harinder Singh as Corps Commander and Maj Gen Abhijit Bapat as the 3 Infantry Division Commander based out of Karu. India gave a huge response as it moved close to 60,000 troops for forward deployments apart from bringing in reserve divisions from the nearby Himachal Pradesh sector and plains. The Indian Air Force made rapid deployments to the frontline where its fighter jets and attack choppers were in ready to fire mode while its Garud Special Forces were deployed in the approach areas with Igla air defence systems to take out any approaching enemy aircraft.

India-China agree on time-bound disengagement plan, LAC conflict may be resolved soon

The ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) obtained the majority in Bihar assembly elections with BJP putting up a winning performance. The BJP emerged victorious on as many as 74 seats while the JD (U) managed to win on 43 seats. Smaller allies, the HAM and the VIP won four seats each.

Bihar Polls: NDA bags 125 seats in Bihar's Assembly election

Chirag Paswan, the Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) chief on Wednesday said that people of Bihar have reposed their faith in Prime Minister Narendra Modi and credited him with the BJP's victory in the Assembly polls.

"People of Bihar have reposed faith in Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The result shows that people are excited about the BJP. This is PM Modi's victory," Paswan tweeted in Hindi.

Nitish Kumar- led NDA was back in power in Bihar on Wednesday with a slender majority.

The ruling coalition won 125 seats in the 243-member state assembly against 110 clinched by the opposition Grand Alliance to pave the way for a fourth successive term for Kumar in office but with diminished clout following a debilitating slide in the number of JD(U) lawmakers that came down to 43 from 71 in 2015.

Kumar was then a partner in the Grand Alliance which included Lalu Prasad's RJD and the Congress.

Its defeat notwithstanding, the RJD, whose campaign Tejashwi Yadav, the younger son and heir to party supremo Lalu Prasad helmed, emerged as the single largest party with 75 seats. The BJP, which led the table for several hours during the counting that dragged on for over 16 hours, finished second with a tally of 74 seats.

Despite the slump in numbers, Kumar, who was declared the NDA's chief ministerial candidate by the BJP brass, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and party chief J P Nadda, is set to take over the reins of the government.

Much of Kumar's plight can be blamed on the damage Chirag Paswan's LJP inflicted on his JD(U). Down in the dumps with just one MLA, the party spoiled the JD(U)'s chances in at least 30 seats.

(With inputs from agencies)

Chirag Paswan, the Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) chief on Wednesday said that people of Bihar have reposed their faith in Prime Minister Narendra Modi and credited him with the BJP's victory in the Assembly polls.

Chirag Paswan, the Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) chief on Wednesday said that people of Bihar have reposed their faith in Prime Minister Narendra Modi and credited him with the BJP's victory in the Assembly polls. "People of Bihar have reposed faith in Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The result shows that people are excited about the BJP. This is PM Modi's victory," Paswan tweeted in Hindi. Nitish Kumar- led NDA was back in power in Bihar on Wednesday with a slender majority. The ruling coalition won 125 seats in the 243-member state assembly against 110 clinched by the opposition Grand Alliance to pave the way for a fourth successive term for Kumar in office but with diminished clout following a debilitating slide in the number of JD(U) lawmakers that came down to 43 from 71 in 2015. Kumar was then a partner in the Grand Alliance which included Lalu Prasad's RJD and the Congress. Its defeat notwithstanding, the RJD, whose campaign Tejashwi Yadav, the younger son and heir to party supremo Lalu Prasad helmed, emerged as the single largest party with 75 seats. The BJP, which led the table for several hours during the counting that dragged on for over 16 hours, finished second with a tally of 74 seats. Despite the slump in numbers, Kumar, who was declared the NDA's chief ministerial candidate by the BJP brass, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and party chief J P Nadda, is set to take over the reins of the government. Much of Kumar's plight can be blamed on the damage Chirag Paswan's LJP inflicted on his JD(U). Down in the dumps with just one MLA, the party spoiled the JD(U)'s chances in at least 30 seats. (With inputs from agencies)

Chirag Paswan credits Bihar polls victory to PM Narendra Modi

The Supreme Court refused on Wednesday to interfere with the Calcutta High Court order banning the sale and use of firecrackers in West Bengal during Kali Puja, saying preservation of life was more important amid the coronavirus pandemic.

A vacation bench of Justices D Y Chandrachud and Indira Banerjee said though festivals were important, but "life itself has been imperilled now" amid the pandemic.

It said the high court knew the local condition better and it should be allowed to do the needful.

The apex court was hearing an appeal filed by one Gautam Roy and the Burrabazaar Fireworks Dealers Association, challenging the high court order last week banning the use and sale of firecrackers during upcoming festivals, including Kali Puja and Chhath Puja, to curb pollution.

Kali Puja will be celebrated on Saturday.

"We are all battling for life in this situation and all of us have elderly people in our home," it observed.

"We are in a situation where, at this time, preservation of life is more important and the high court knows what is required at the ground level."

It added that the high court had taken care of the interest of citizens, especially senior citizens who may have comorbidities.

The high court had directed that the ban would also be in force during the Jagaddhatri Puja, Chhath and Kartik Puja, adding that the guidelines -- which were in place during Durga Puja, such as no entry to pandals -- would also be in effect.

It had lauded the state government for effectively implementing the court-directed guidelines during the Durga Puja and asked the police to ensure that the norms are strictly enforced on the other festivals as well.

Fifteen people will be allowed in the Kali Puja pandals having an area up to 300 sq metres, and 45 in the bigger ones, the court had said, while disallowing procession during immersion.

The Supreme Court refused on Wednesday to interfere with the Calcutta High Court order banning the sale and use of firecrackers in West Bengal during Kali Puja, saying preservation of life was more important amid the coronavirus pandemic.

The Supreme Court refused on Wednesday to interfere with the Calcutta High Court order banning the sale and use of firecrackers in West Bengal during Kali Puja, saying preservation of life was more important amid the coronavirus pandemic. A vacation bench of Justices D Y Chandrachud and Indira Banerjee said though festivals were important, but "life itself has been imperilled now" amid the pandemic. It said the high court knew the local condition better and it should be allowed to do the needful. The apex court was hearing an appeal filed by one Gautam Roy and the Burrabazaar Fireworks Dealers Association, challenging the high court order last week banning the use and sale of firecrackers during upcoming festivals, including Kali Puja and Chhath Puja, to curb pollution. Kali Puja will be celebrated on Saturday. "We are all battling for life in this situation and all of us have elderly people in our home," it observed. "We are in a situation where, at this time, preservation of life is more important and the high court knows what is required at the ground level." It added that the high court had taken care of the interest of citizens, especially senior citizens who may have comorbidities. The high court had directed that the ban would also be in force during the Jagaddhatri Puja, Chhath and Kartik Puja, adding that the guidelines -- which were in place during Durga Puja, such as no entry to pandals -- would also be in effect. It had lauded the state government for effectively implementing the court-directed guidelines during the Durga Puja and asked the police to ensure that the norms are strictly enforced on the other festivals as well. Fifteen people will be allowed in the Kali Puja pandals having an area up to 300 sq metres, and 45 in the bigger ones, the court had said, while disallowing procession during immersion.

Preserving life more important: Supreme Court refuses to interfere with HC cracker ban

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) looks set to emerge as the single-largest party in Bihar polls as it is leading on 73 seats in the state, as per the Election Commission of India's initial trends.

The National Democratic Alliance (NDA) has crossed halfway mark as per the Election Commission of India's (ECI) latest trends for all 243 seats at 12:15 pm--NDA is leading on 127 seats - BJP 73, JDU 47 and Vikassheel Insaan Party 7.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nda-forges-ahead-of-grand-alliance-in-bihar-patna-342093" hreflang="en">NDA forges ahead of Grand Alliance in Bihar Patna</a>

The BJP is marching ahead as per the early trends, having an upper hand over JDU.

While Mahagathbandhan is ahead on 100 seats - RJD 61, Congress 20, Left 19. BSP is leading on one, AIMIM on three, LJP on five and independents on seven.

Chirag Paswan's Lok Jan Shakti Party is leading on five seats so far (at around 11:55 am).

Counting of votes polled in Bihar Assembly elections began at 8 am on Tuesday at 55 counting centres across 38 districts of the state. 
On one side is the NDA, which includes JD-U (115 seats), BJP (110 seats), Vikassheel Insaan Party (11 seats) and Jitan Ram Manjhi's Hindustani Awam Morcha (7 seats).

Mahagathbandhan constitutes RJD (144 seats) and the Congress with 70 seats. Other alliance partners include the CPI-ML (19 seats), CPI (6 seats), and the CPIM (4 seats).

Incumbent Chief Minister Nitish Kumar was the face of the NDA while Mahagathbandhan declared Tejashwi Yadav as its chief ministerial candidate.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) looks set to emerge as the single-largest party in Bihar polls as it is leading on 73 seats in the state, as per the Election Commission of India's initial trends.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) looks set to emerge as the single-largest party in Bihar polls as it is leading on 73 seats in the state, as per the Election Commission of India's initial trends. The National Democratic Alliance (NDA) has crossed halfway mark as per the Election Commission of India's (ECI) latest trends for all 243 seats at 12:15 pm--NDA is leading on 127 seats - BJP 73, JDU 47 and Vikassheel Insaan Party 7. Also read: NDA forges ahead of Grand Alliance in Bihar Patna The BJP is marching ahead as per the early trends, having an upper hand over JDU. While Mahagathbandhan is ahead on 100 seats - RJD 61, Congress 20, Left 19. BSP is leading on one, AIMIM on three, LJP on five and independents on seven. Chirag Paswan's Lok Jan Shakti Party is leading on five seats so far (at around 11:55 am). Counting of votes polled in Bihar Assembly elections began at 8 am on Tuesday at 55 counting centres across 38 districts of the state. On one side is the NDA, which includes JD-U (115 seats), BJP (110 seats), Vikassheel Insaan Party (11 seats) and Jitan Ram Manjhi's Hindustani Awam Morcha (7 seats). Mahagathbandhan constitutes RJD (144 seats) and the Congress with 70 seats. Other alliance partners include the CPI-ML (19 seats), CPI (6 seats), and the CPIM (4 seats). Incumbent Chief Minister Nitish Kumar was the face of the NDA while Mahagathbandhan declared Tejashwi Yadav as its chief ministerial candidate.

Bihar Polls: Trends indicate BJP set to emerge as single-largest party

Delhi woke up to a grey morning as an apocalyptic smog blotted out the sun from the sky and smudged landmarks from view with air quality inching closer to ''emergency''&nbsp;levels on Tuesday.

Air quality monitoring stations at Mandir Marg, Punjabi Bagh, Pusa, Rohini, Patparganj, Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Najafgarh, Sri Aurobindo Marg, and Okhla Phase 2 maxed out&nbsp;as air quality indexes hit the 500 mark, Central Pollution Control Board data showed.

The smog reduced the visibility to merely 300 meters in the morning affecting traffic, an official of the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/complete-ban-on-crackers-from-midnight-to-nov-30-in-delhi-ncr-341881" hreflang="en">Complete ban on crackers from midnight to Nov 30 in Delhi-NCR</a>

Delhi recorded an AQI of 487 at 9 am, which falls in the ''severe'' category. The neighbouring cities of Faridabad (474), Ghaziabad (476), Noida (490), Greater Noida (467), and Gurugram (469) also recorded ''severe'' air quality.

This is the sixth ''severe'' air day on the trot in Delhi. The city witnessed seven ''severe''&nbsp;air days in November last year.

The levels of PM2.5&nbsp;finer particles that can even enter the bloodstream&nbsp;in Delhi-NCR were 605 g/m3 at 8 am&nbsp;around ten times the safe limit of 60g/m3.

PM10 levels stood at 777 microgram&nbsp;per cubic meter (g/m3) at 8 am,?the highest since November June 14, 2018, when it surged to 847 g/m3, according to CPCB data.?PM10 levels below 100 g/m3 are considered safe in India.

If PM2.5 and PM10 levels are more than 300 g/m3 and 500 g/m3 for over 48 hours, emergency measures such ban on construction activities, entry of trucks, and car rationing scheme can be implemented under the Graded Response Action Plan for Delhi-NCR notified by the Ministry of Environment and Forests in 2017.

Government agencies and experts said calm wind speeds were exacerbating the effect of stubble burning and a ?quick recovery? is not possible unless the number of farm fires reduces drastically.

V K Soni, the head of the IMD's environment research centre, said a major improvement in Delhi-NCR's air quality was highly unlikely in the coming days.

''The air quality is likely to be recorded in the upper end of the ''very poor'' category on Diwali if we discount firecrackers emissions. If people burst crackers, pollution levels can increase to 'severe'' to 'severe plus' category (emergency),''&nbsp;he said.

The National Green Tribunal on Monday imposed a total ban on sale or use of all kinds of firecrackers in the National Capital Region (NCR) from November 9 midnight to November 30 midnight, saying "celebration by crackers is for happiness and not to celebrate deaths and diseases".

The Ministry of Earth Sciences' air quality monitor, SAFAR, said, ''Low dispersion condition continues in Delhi along with high fire-related intrusion. This has led to the accumulation of pollutants near the surface.'' 
''No quick recovery is expected unless a drastic reduction in fire counts takes place,''&nbsp;it said.

SAFAR said the share of stubble burning in Delhi's PM2.5 pollution was 38 percent on Monday.

According to the IMD, Delhi recorded calm winds and a minimum temperature of 10.8 degrees Celsius on Tuesday morning. Calm winds and low temperatures trap pollutants close to the ground, while favourable wind speed helps in their dispersion.

There was moderate fog in the morning which led to smog. It reduced visibility to 300 meters at the Safdarjung and Palam weather stations, an IMD official said.

The newly-constituted Commission for Air Quality Management in National Capital Region and Adjoining Areas on Monday stressed the need to enforce existing laws, directions and SOPs to minimise air pollution on an emergency basis. It is expected to review the situation on Tuesday.

Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai said action will be taken against those not complying with the ban on firecrackers under the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act which included a jail term of up to six years.

Delhi woke up to a grey morning as an apocalyptic smog blotted out the sun from the sky and smudged landmarks from view with air quality inching closer to ''emergency'' levels on Tuesday.

Delhi woke up to a grey morning as an apocalyptic smog blotted out the sun from the sky and smudged landmarks from view with air quality inching closer to ''emergency'' levels on Tuesday. Air quality monitoring stations at Mandir Marg, Punjabi Bagh, Pusa, Rohini, Patparganj, Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Najafgarh, Sri Aurobindo Marg, and Okhla Phase 2 maxed out as air quality indexes hit the 500 mark, Central Pollution Control Board data showed. The smog reduced the visibility to merely 300 meters in the morning affecting traffic, an official of the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said. Also read: Complete ban on crackers from midnight to Nov 30 in Delhi-NCR Delhi recorded an AQI of 487 at 9 am, which falls in the ''severe'' category. The neighbouring cities of Faridabad (474), Ghaziabad (476), Noida (490), Greater Noida (467), and Gurugram (469) also recorded ''severe'' air quality. This is the sixth ''severe'' air day on the trot in Delhi. The city witnessed seven ''severe'' air days in November last year. The levels of PM2.5 finer particles that can even enter the bloodstream in Delhi-NCR were 605 g/m3 at 8 am around ten times the safe limit of 60g/m3. PM10 levels stood at 777 microgram per cubic meter (g/m3) at 8 am,?the highest since November June 14, 2018, when it surged to 847 g/m3, according to CPCB data.?PM10 levels below 100 g/m3 are considered safe in India. If PM2.5 and PM10 levels are more than 300 g/m3 and 500 g/m3 for over 48 hours, emergency measures such ban on construction activities, entry of trucks, and car rationing scheme can be implemented under the Graded Response Action Plan for Delhi-NCR notified by the Ministry of Environment and Forests in 2017. Government agencies and experts said calm wind speeds were exacerbating the effect of stubble burning and a ?quick recovery? is not possible unless the number of farm fires reduces drastically. V K Soni, the head of the IMD's environment research centre, said a major improvement in Delhi-NCR's air quality was highly unlikely in the coming days. ''The air quality is likely to be recorded in the upper end of the ''very poor'' category on Diwali if we discount firecrackers emissions. If people burst crackers, pollution levels can increase to 'severe'' to 'severe plus' category (emergency),'' he said. The National Green Tribunal on Monday imposed a total ban on sale or use of all kinds of firecrackers in the National Capital Region (NCR) from November 9 midnight to November 30 midnight, saying "celebration by crackers is for happiness and not to celebrate deaths and diseases". The Ministry of Earth Sciences' air quality monitor, SAFAR, said, ''Low dispersion condition continues in Delhi along with high fire-related intrusion. This has led to the accumulation of pollutants near the surface.'' ''No quick recovery is expected unless a drastic reduction in fire counts takes place,'' it said. SAFAR said the share of stubble burning in Delhi's PM2.5 pollution was 38 percent on Monday. According to the IMD, Delhi recorded calm winds and a minimum temperature of 10.8 degrees Celsius on Tuesday morning. Calm winds and low temperatures trap pollutants close to the ground, while favourable wind speed helps in their dispersion. There was moderate fog in the morning which led to smog. It reduced visibility to 300 meters at the Safdarjung and Palam weather stations, an IMD official said. The newly-constituted Commission for Air Quality Management in National Capital Region and Adjoining Areas on Monday stressed the need to enforce existing laws, directions and SOPs to minimise air pollution on an emergency basis. It is expected to review the situation on Tuesday. Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai said action will be taken against those not complying with the ban on firecrackers under the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act which included a jail term of up to six years.

Delhi-NCR's air quality on brink of 'emergency'

The ruling NDA forged ahead of its challenger Grand Alliance in Bihar on Tuesday, leading on 127&nbsp;seats from where trends were available till 12&nbsp;pm.

The Election Commission website said the NDA candidates were leading in 127&nbsp;seats while the opposition alliance was ahead in 100.

The Bharatiya Janata Party&nbsp;is leading the table with 73&nbsp;seats and its allies Janata Dal (United) in 49&nbsp;seats.

Also see|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/bihar-elections-india-conducts-first-major-poll-since-beginning-of-coronavirus-pandemic-338527#285-crore-eligible-voters-338519">Bihar elections: India conducts first major poll since beginning of coronavirus pandemic</a>

Bihar minister and BJP leader Vinod Narayan Jha leads over Congress rival Bhawana Jha by 6,000 votes in Benipatti seat.

RJD nominees were ahead of their rivals in nine constituencies and alliance partners Congress (21), CPI-ML (14) and CPI-M (2). 
Ace shooter and BJP nominee Shreyasi Singh was leading her rivals in Jamui.

Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) Chief and Grand Alliance Chief Minister candidate Tejashwi Yadav is leading from his Raghopur Assembly seat while his elder brother Tej Pratap Yadav is trailing from the Hasanpur Assembly seat. 
 
According to the early poll trends, Tejashwi was leading from the Raghopur Assembly seat with 2,445 votes, while his rival Satish Kumar was trailing by over 500 votes with 1,990 votes. 
 
Meanwhile, Tej Pratap, who shifted his Assembly seat from Mahua to Hasanpur, is trailing behind the ruling Janata Dal(United) candidate Raj Kumar Ray by over 1,500 votes.

Bihar voted for the 243-member Assembly in three phases -- October 28, November 3 and November 7. 
 
The RJD had won 80 seats in the 2015 Assembly polls, while the JD(U) won 71 seats. The BJP had won 53 seats and the LJP managed two seats. 
 
The Bihar election is being seen as a referendum on Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, whose JD(U) is in alliance with the BJP-led NDA. Nitish Kumar has governed Bihar three times in a row since 2005.

The ruling NDA forged ahead of its challenger Grand Alliance in Bihar on Tuesday, leading on 127 seats from where trends were available till 12 pm. The Election Commission website said the NDA candidates were leading in 127 seats while the opposition alliance was ahead in 100.

The ruling NDA forged ahead of its challenger Grand Alliance in Bihar on Tuesday, leading on 127 seats from where trends were available till 12 pm. The Election Commission website said the NDA candidates were leading in 127 seats while the opposition alliance was ahead in 100. The Bharatiya Janata Party is leading the table with 73 seats and its allies Janata Dal (United) in 49 seats. Also see| Bihar elections: India conducts first major poll since beginning of coronavirus pandemic Bihar minister and BJP leader Vinod Narayan Jha leads over Congress rival Bhawana Jha by 6,000 votes in Benipatti seat. RJD nominees were ahead of their rivals in nine constituencies and alliance partners Congress (21), CPI-ML (14) and CPI-M (2). Ace shooter and BJP nominee Shreyasi Singh was leading her rivals in Jamui. Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) Chief and Grand Alliance Chief Minister candidate Tejashwi Yadav is leading from his Raghopur Assembly seat while his elder brother Tej Pratap Yadav is trailing from the Hasanpur Assembly seat. According to the early poll trends, Tejashwi was leading from the Raghopur Assembly seat with 2,445 votes, while his rival Satish Kumar was trailing by over 500 votes with 1,990 votes. Meanwhile, Tej Pratap, who shifted his Assembly seat from Mahua to Hasanpur, is trailing behind the ruling Janata Dal(United) candidate Raj Kumar Ray by over 1,500 votes. Bihar voted for the 243-member Assembly in three phases -- October 28, November 3 and November 7. The RJD had won 80 seats in the 2015 Assembly polls, while the JD(U) won 71 seats. The BJP had won 53 seats and the LJP managed two seats. The Bihar election is being seen as a referendum on Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, whose JD(U) is in alliance with the BJP-led NDA. Nitish Kumar has governed Bihar three times in a row since 2005.

NDA forges ahead of Grand Alliance in Bihar Patna

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chinese President Xi Jinping, Russian President Vladimir Putin and other top leaders of the SCO member-states are set to deliberate on a plethora of pressing issues, including ways to deal with adverse economic impact of the coronavirus pandemic and rising threat of terrorism, at a virtual summit of the bloc on Tuesday.

This is for the first time Modi and Xi are expected to come face-to-face, albeit virtually, since the border standoff between India and China began in eastern Ladakh in early May.

Government sources said, the summit is expected to focus on countering the spread of terrorism including use of the internet for spreading radicalisation, as also issues relating to trade and economic activities.

Beijing-headquartered Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), seen as a counterweight to NATO, is an eight-member economic and security bloc and has emerged as one of the largest transregional international organisations. India and Pakistan became its permanent members in 2017.

The annual summit of SCO council of heads of state deals with all the key areas of the activities of the powerful bloc including political, security, trade, economic and cultural.

Prime Minister Modi has led the Indian delegation at the annual SCO summit since India became a full member in 2017.

However, India's association with the organisation dates back to 2005 when it became an Observer State of the grouping. Since then, India has played a positive and constructive role in all areas of SCO activities with a special emphasis on cooperation in trade and economy, officials said.

Russia is the current chair of the SCO and President Vladimir Putin will be chairing the summit meeting which is being held for the first time in virtual format due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The summit will culminate with the release of a Moscow declaration which will reflect the broad agenda of the bloc for the next one year.

Apart from the Moscow declaration, the summit may issue separate documents on digital economy, COVID-19, countering the spread of terrorism.

Apart from India, China and Russia, the summit is scheduled to be attended by heads all other member states -- Pakistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan.

The heads of four Observer States of SCO ? Iran, Afghanistan, Belarus and Mongolia will also participate.

In the summit held in Bishkek last year, Prime Minister Modi had given his vision for the SCO with the acronym HEALTH with H for health care cooperation, E for economic cooperation, A for alternative energy, L for literature and culture, T for terrorism free society and H for humanitarian cooperation.

India also participated in two in-person meetings of the SCO defence ministers and council of foreign ministers in Moscow in September.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chinese President Xi Jinping, Russian President Vladimir Putin and other top leaders of the SCO member-states are set to deliberate on a plethora of pressing issues, including ways to deal with adverse economic impact of the coronavirus pandemic and rising threat of terrorism, at a virtual summit of the bloc on Tuesday.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chinese President Xi Jinping, Russian President Vladimir Putin and other top leaders of the SCO member-states are set to deliberate on a plethora of pressing issues, including ways to deal with adverse economic impact of the coronavirus pandemic and rising threat of terrorism, at a virtual summit of the bloc on Tuesday. This is for the first time Modi and Xi are expected to come face-to-face, albeit virtually, since the border standoff between India and China began in eastern Ladakh in early May. Government sources said, the summit is expected to focus on countering the spread of terrorism including use of the internet for spreading radicalisation, as also issues relating to trade and economic activities. Beijing-headquartered Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), seen as a counterweight to NATO, is an eight-member economic and security bloc and has emerged as one of the largest transregional international organisations. India and Pakistan became its permanent members in 2017. The annual summit of SCO council of heads of state deals with all the key areas of the activities of the powerful bloc including political, security, trade, economic and cultural. Prime Minister Modi has led the Indian delegation at the annual SCO summit since India became a full member in 2017. However, India's association with the organisation dates back to 2005 when it became an Observer State of the grouping. Since then, India has played a positive and constructive role in all areas of SCO activities with a special emphasis on cooperation in trade and economy, officials said. Russia is the current chair of the SCO and President Vladimir Putin will be chairing the summit meeting which is being held for the first time in virtual format due to the coronavirus pandemic. The summit will culminate with the release of a Moscow declaration which will reflect the broad agenda of the bloc for the next one year. Apart from the Moscow declaration, the summit may issue separate documents on digital economy, COVID-19, countering the spread of terrorism. Apart from India, China and Russia, the summit is scheduled to be attended by heads all other member states -- Pakistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan. The heads of four Observer States of SCO ? Iran, Afghanistan, Belarus and Mongolia will also participate. In the summit held in Bishkek last year, Prime Minister Modi had given his vision for the SCO with the acronym HEALTH with H for health care cooperation, E for economic cooperation, A for alternative energy, L for literature and culture, T for terrorism free society and H for humanitarian cooperation. India also participated in two in-person meetings of the SCO defence ministers and council of foreign ministers in Moscow in September.

SCO summit to be held on Tuesday; Covid pandemic, terrorism to be discussed

Counting of votes got underway Tuesday morning for the three-phase Bihar assembly elections that may herald a new era in state politics, with exit polls predicting a victory for the RJD-led Grand Alliance.

Bihar Assembly election 2020: Counting of votes underway

BJP's Bihar president Sanjay Jaiswal said today that National Democratic Alliance(NDA) set to form government in Bihar after won 121 seats and was leading in 4 seats.

<a href="Also Read: NDA forges ahead of Grand Alliance in Bihar Patna">Also Read: NDA forges ahead of Grand Alliance in Bihar Patna</a>

According to reports, the NDA had garnered over 53 per cent votes while LJP has managed to win less than six per cent votes even as HAM and VIP have become part of the NDA.

As the results poured in on Tuesday,&nbsp; Union Home Minister Amit Shah Tuesday called up chief minister Nitish Kumar. India's home minister had already declared that Nitish would retain his position irrespective of the seats won by the two parties.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bihar-polls-trends-indicate-bjp-set-to-emerge-as-single-largest-party-342101">Also Read:&nbsp;Trends indicate BJP set to emerge as single-largest party</a>

The Congress, however, failed to impress as it continued to lose ground in successive polls from Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh. The party dropped from 27 seats five years ago to nearly 20 according to the latest trends with the RJD-led Grand Alliance lagging behind the BJP-led NDA alliance even as it contested in 70 seats.

Congress blamed its defeat on the EVMs asserting that machines could be hacked.

"If the direction of satellites to Mars and Moon can be controlled from the earth, then why can't EVM be hacked, Udit Raj, Congress national spokesperson, said.

The Left fared better than expected winning seven seats and leading in several others as results were being declared.

In counting late night, CPI(ML) had won six out of the 19 seats it had contested and was leading in six seats.

BJP's Bihar president Sanjay Jaiswal said today that National Democratic Alliance(NDA) set to form government in Bihar after won 121 seats and was leading in 4 seats.

BJP's Bihar president Sanjay Jaiswal said today that National Democratic Alliance(NDA) set to form government in Bihar after won 121 seats and was leading in 4 seats. Also Read: NDA forges ahead of Grand Alliance in Bihar Patna According to reports, the NDA had garnered over 53 per cent votes while LJP has managed to win less than six per cent votes even as HAM and VIP have become part of the NDA. As the results poured in on Tuesday, Union Home Minister Amit Shah Tuesday called up chief minister Nitish Kumar. India's home minister had already declared that Nitish would retain his position irrespective of the seats won by the two parties. Also Read: Trends indicate BJP set to emerge as single-largest party The Congress, however, failed to impress as it continued to lose ground in successive polls from Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh. The party dropped from 27 seats five years ago to nearly 20 according to the latest trends with the RJD-led Grand Alliance lagging behind the BJP-led NDA alliance even as it contested in 70 seats. Congress blamed its defeat on the EVMs asserting that machines could be hacked. "If the direction of satellites to Mars and Moon can be controlled from the earth, then why can't EVM be hacked, Udit Raj, Congress national spokesperson, said. The Left fared better than expected winning seven seats and leading in several others as results were being declared. In counting late night, CPI(ML) had won six out of the 19 seats it had contested and was leading in six seats.

NDA set to form government in Bihar: Bihar BJP president Sanjay Jaiswal

India has reported&nbsp;38,074 new COVID-19 cases in the last 24 hours taking the total number of cases to 85,91,731.

While there are 5,05,265 total active cases after a decrease of 4,408, there are&nbsp;79,59,406 cured cases with&nbsp;42,033 new discharges.

The number of active cases remained below 6 lakh for the twelfth consecutive day.

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COVID-19 Testing Update. For more details visit: <a href="https://t.co/dI1pqvXAsZ">https://t.co/dI1pqvXAsZ</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/MoHFW_INDIA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MoHFW_INDIA</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/DeptHealthRes?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DeptHealthRes</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ICMRFIGHTSCOVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ICMRFIGHTSCOVID19</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaFightsCOVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaFightsCOVID19</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CoronaUpdatesInIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CoronaUpdatesInIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> <a href="https://t.co/WNqfuCt5v9">pic.twitter.com/WNqfuCt5v9</a>
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The coronavirus death toll climbed to 1,27,059 with 448 new fatalities, the data updated at 8 am showed.

The coronavirus case fatality rate stands at 1.48 per cent. 
 
India's COVID-19 tally had crossed the 20-lakh mark on August 7, 30 lakh&nbsp;on August 23, and 40 lakh on September 5.

It went past 50 lakh on September 16, 60 lakh on September 28, 70 lakh on October 11, and crossed 80 lakh on October 29.

According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), a?cumulative total of?? 11,96,15,857 samples have been tested up to November 9 with 10,43,665 samples tested on Monday.

India has reported 38,074 new COVID-19 cases in the last 24 hours taking the total number of cases to 85,91,731. While there are 5,05,265 total active cases after a decrease of 4,408, there are 79,59,406 cured cases with 42,033 new discharges.

India has reported 38,074 new COVID-19 cases in the last 24 hours taking the total number of cases to 85,91,731. While there are 5,05,265 total active cases after a decrease of 4,408, there are 79,59,406 cured cases with 42,033 new discharges. The number of active cases remained below 6 lakh for the twelfth consecutive day. COVID-19 Testing Update. For more details visit: https://t.co/dI1pqvXAsZ @MoHFW_INDIA @DeptHealthRes #ICMRFIGHTSCOVID19 #IndiaFightsCOVID19 #CoronaUpdatesInIndia #COVID19 pic.twitter.com/WNqfuCt5v9 — ICMR (@ICMRDELHI) November 10, 2020 × The coronavirus death toll climbed to 1,27,059 with 448 new fatalities, the data updated at 8 am showed. The coronavirus case fatality rate stands at 1.48 per cent. India's COVID-19 tally had crossed the 20-lakh mark on August 7, 30 lakh on August 23, and 40 lakh on September 5. It went past 50 lakh on September 16, 60 lakh on September 28, 70 lakh on October 11, and crossed 80 lakh on October 29. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), a?cumulative total of?? 11,96,15,857 samples have been tested up to November 9 with 10,43,665 samples tested on Monday.

India reports 38,074 new COVID-19 cases; total tally nears 8.6 million

Counting of votes got under way Tuesday morning for the three-phase Bihar assembly elections that may herald a new era in state politics, with exit polls predicting a victory for the RJD-led Grand Alliance.

Counting begins for Bihar polls; results may be delayed due to additional poll stations

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