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India's active coronavirus cases have fallen under 550,000 now and are now only 6.55 per cent of the total infections, the health ministry said on Tuesday.&nbsp;

The health ministry said the drop in active cases is supplemented by an exponential increase in recoveries.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-reports-38310-new-covid-19-cases-total-tally-surges-to-826-million-340019">India reports 38,310 new COVID-19 cases; total tally surges to 8.26 million</a>

As many as 7,603,121 people have recuperated from the deadly virus, taking the recovery rate to about 92 per cent, the ministry said.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, India continues to see a declining trend as daily coronavirus cases reduced to less than 40,000 on Tuesday, bringing the total tally to 8.2 million.&nbsp;

The death toll stands at 123,097 with 490 new Covid-19 fatalities in the last 24 hours.&nbsp;

India is the second-worst coronavirus-hit country in terms of total cases and third-worst in terms of the overall death toll.

After recording a peak of about 90,000-95000 cases in September, for the past few weeks, India is witnessing a consistent declining trend of Covid-19 daily cases, but experts fear with the arrival of winters and festival season could lead to a surge in the cases.&nbsp;

The US continues to be the worst-hit Covid-19 country as more than 231,000 people have lost their lives due to the virus.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

India's active coronavirus cases have fallen under 550,000 now and are now only 6.55 per cent of the total infections, the health ministry said on Tuesday. The health ministry said the drop in active cases is supplemented by an exponential increase in recoveries.

India's active coronavirus cases have fallen under 550,000 now and are now only 6.55 per cent of the total infections, the health ministry said on Tuesday. The health ministry said the drop in active cases is supplemented by an exponential increase in recoveries. Also read | India reports 38,310 new COVID-19 cases; total tally surges to 8.26 million As many as 7,603,121 people have recuperated from the deadly virus, taking the recovery rate to about 92 per cent, the ministry said. Meanwhile, India continues to see a declining trend as daily coronavirus cases reduced to less than 40,000 on Tuesday, bringing the total tally to 8.2 million. The death toll stands at 123,097 with 490 new Covid-19 fatalities in the last 24 hours. India is the second-worst coronavirus-hit country in terms of total cases and third-worst in terms of the overall death toll. After recording a peak of about 90,000-95000 cases in September, for the past few weeks, India is witnessing a consistent declining trend of Covid-19 daily cases, but experts fear with the arrival of winters and festival season could lead to a surge in the cases. The US continues to be the worst-hit Covid-19 country as more than 231,000 people have lost their lives due to the virus.

India: Less than 550,000 coronavirus active cases; recovery rate stands near 92%

India, US, Japan, and Australia will come together to participate in a joint military exercise, Malabar 2020, which begins on Tuesday in the Bay of Bengal and will be carried out in two phases this month.

QUAD: U.S, India, Japan and Australia prepare for Malabar exercise

India reported&nbsp;38,310 new COVID-19 cases in the last 24 hours, taking its tally to 8.26&nbsp;million, health ministry data showed on Tuesday.

It was the ninth straight day that infections numbered fewer than 50,000, as cases have dipped from a September peak.

A total of 76,03,121 people have recuperated from the infection so far, pushing the national recovery rate to 91.96 per cent, while the case fatality rate stands at 1.49 per cent.

There are 5,41,405 active cases in the country as of the date which comprises 6.55 per cent of the total caseload, the data stated.

India's COVID-19 tally had crossed the 20-lakh mark on August 7, 30 lakh&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 ICMR, a cumulative total of 11,17,89,350 samples have been tested up so far with 10,46,247 samples being tested on Monday.

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&nbsp;

India reported 38,310 new COVID-19 cases in the last 24 hours, taking its tally to 8.26 million, health ministry data showed on Tuesday. It was the ninth straight day that infections numbered fewer than 50,000, as cases have dipped from a September peak.

India reported 38,310 new COVID-19 cases in the last 24 hours, taking its tally to 8.26 million, health ministry data showed on Tuesday. It was the ninth straight day that infections numbered fewer than 50,000, as cases have dipped from a September peak. A total of 76,03,121 people have recuperated from the infection so far, pushing the national recovery rate to 91.96 per cent, while the case fatality rate stands at 1.49 per cent. There are 5,41,405 active cases in the country as of the date which comprises 6.55 per cent of the total caseload, the data stated. India's COVID-19 tally had crossed the 20-lakh mark on August 7, 30 lakh on August 23, and 40 lakh on September 5. It went past 50 lakh on September 16, 60 lakh on September 28, 70 lakh on October 11, and crossed 80 lakh on October 29. According to the ICMR, a cumulative total of 11,17,89,350 samples have been tested up so far with 10,46,247 samples being tested on Monday. COVID-19 Testing Update. For more details visit: https://t.co/dI1pqvXAsZ @MoHFW_INDIA @DeptHealthRes #ICMRFIGHTSCOVID19 #IndiaFightsCOVID19 #CoronaUpdatesInIndia #COVID19 pic.twitter.com/CLgfwib0on — ICMR (@ICMRDELHI) November 3, 2020 ×

India reports 38,310 new COVID-19 cases; total tally surges to 8.26 million

Bihar elections: India conducts first major poll since beginning of coronavirus pandemic

The national capital's air quality slipped back into the ''very poor''&nbsp;category again on Tuesday after recording a marginal improvement over the last 24 hours.&nbsp;

Officials at the India Meteorological Department said the air quality had improved on Monday with high wind speed aiding dispersion of pollutants. However, stagnant night-time conditions led to the accumulation of pollutants.

The city recorded an air quality index (AQI) of 332 at 10 am. The 24-hour average (AQI) was 293, which falls in the "poor" category. 
It was 364 on Sunday, with stubble burning contributing 40 percent to Delhi's pollution.

An AQI between 0 and 50 is considered 'good', 51 and 100 'satisfactory', 101 and 200 'moderate',201 and 300 'poor', 301 and 400 'very poor', and 401 and 500 'severe'.

The Air Quality Early Warning System for Delhi said a ''significantly&nbsp;large number of fires'' were observed over Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh on Sunday which is likely to impact the air quality in Delhi-NCR and northwest India on Tuesday and Wednesday.

According to the Ministry of Earth Sciences' air quality monitor, SAFAR, the share of stubble burning in Delhi's pollution was 16 percent on Monday.

It had soared to 40 percent on Sunday, the maximum so far this season.

Stubble burning accounted for 32 percent of Delhi's PM2.5 pollution on Saturday, 19 percent on Friday and 36 percent on Thursday. 
Last year, the farm fire contribution to Delhi's pollution had peaked to 44 percent on November 1, according to SAFAR data.

According to the India Meteorological Department, the predominant wind direction was northwesterly and the maximum wind speed was 8 kilometers per hour on Tuesday.The city recorded a minimum temperature of 10 degrees Celsius, the lowest in the season so far.

Calm winds and low temperatures trap pollutants close to the ground, while favourable wind speed helps in their dispersion.

According to the Air Quality Early Warning System for Delhi, the city's ventilation index ''a product of mixing depth and average wind speed,&nbsp;was expected to be around 8,000 meter square per second on Tuesday&nbsp;favourable for dispersion of pollutants.''

Mixing depth is the vertical height in which pollutants are suspended in the air. It reduces on cold days with calm wind speed.

A ventilation index lower than 6,000 sqm/second, with the average wind speed less than 10 kmph, is unfavourable for dispersal of pollutants.

In a bid to control pollution, the Delhi government has also said that only 'green firecrackers'&nbsp;can be manufactured, sold, and used in the national capital in accordance with a 2018 Supreme Court order.

'Green crackers' are not as polluting as the conventional types of?firecrackers?and they contain at least 30 percent less particulate matter such as Sulphur Dioxide and Nitrogen Oxide.

Fireworks can take place between 8 pm and 10 pm only on festivals like Diwali and Gurpurab etc.On Christmas eve and New Year eve, it would be from 11:55 pm till 12:30 am only, according to the Delhi Pollution Control Committee.

The National Green Tribunal has also issued notice to the Centre, Central Pollution Control Board, and the governments of Delhi, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan, asking if crackers could be banned between November 7 and November 30 in the interest of public health and environment.

The national capital's air quality slipped back into the ''very poor'' category again on Tuesday after recording a marginal improvement over the last 24 hours. Officials at the India Meteorological Department said the air quality had improved on Monday with high wind speed aiding dispersion of pollutants.

The national capital's air quality slipped back into the ''very poor'' category again on Tuesday after recording a marginal improvement over the last 24 hours. Officials at the India Meteorological Department said the air quality had improved on Monday with high wind speed aiding dispersion of pollutants. However, stagnant night-time conditions led to the accumulation of pollutants. The city recorded an air quality index (AQI) of 332 at 10 am. The 24-hour average (AQI) was 293, which falls in the "poor" category. It was 364 on Sunday, with stubble burning contributing 40 percent to Delhi's pollution. An AQI between 0 and 50 is considered 'good', 51 and 100 'satisfactory', 101 and 200 'moderate',201 and 300 'poor', 301 and 400 'very poor', and 401 and 500 'severe'. The Air Quality Early Warning System for Delhi said a ''significantly large number of fires'' were observed over Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh on Sunday which is likely to impact the air quality in Delhi-NCR and northwest India on Tuesday and Wednesday. According to the Ministry of Earth Sciences' air quality monitor, SAFAR, the share of stubble burning in Delhi's pollution was 16 percent on Monday. It had soared to 40 percent on Sunday, the maximum so far this season. Stubble burning accounted for 32 percent of Delhi's PM2.5 pollution on Saturday, 19 percent on Friday and 36 percent on Thursday. Last year, the farm fire contribution to Delhi's pollution had peaked to 44 percent on November 1, according to SAFAR data. According to the India Meteorological Department, the predominant wind direction was northwesterly and the maximum wind speed was 8 kilometers per hour on Tuesday.The city recorded a minimum temperature of 10 degrees Celsius, the lowest in the season so far. Calm winds and low temperatures trap pollutants close to the ground, while favourable wind speed helps in their dispersion. According to the Air Quality Early Warning System for Delhi, the city's ventilation index ''a product of mixing depth and average wind speed, was expected to be around 8,000 meter square per second on Tuesday favourable for dispersion of pollutants.'' Mixing depth is the vertical height in which pollutants are suspended in the air. It reduces on cold days with calm wind speed. A ventilation index lower than 6,000 sqm/second, with the average wind speed less than 10 kmph, is unfavourable for dispersal of pollutants. In a bid to control pollution, the Delhi government has also said that only 'green firecrackers' can be manufactured, sold, and used in the national capital in accordance with a 2018 Supreme Court order. 'Green crackers' are not as polluting as the conventional types of?firecrackers?and they contain at least 30 percent less particulate matter such as Sulphur Dioxide and Nitrogen Oxide. Fireworks can take place between 8 pm and 10 pm only on festivals like Diwali and Gurpurab etc.On Christmas eve and New Year eve, it would be from 11:55 pm till 12:30 am only, according to the Delhi Pollution Control Committee. The National Green Tribunal has also issued notice to the Centre, Central Pollution Control Board, and the governments of Delhi, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan, asking if crackers could be banned between November 7 and November 30 in the interest of public health and environment.

Delhi's air quality turns 'very poor' after marginal improvement

The first phase of the Malabar exercise among the navies of India, the US, Japan and Australia Kicked off Visakhapatnam in the Bay of Bengal today, in a reflection of growing congruence in strategic interests of the four nations.

The exercise is taking place at a time India and China are locked in a nearly six-month-long bitter border standoff in eastern Ladakh that has significantly strained their ties. Japan, Australia and the US are also having friction with China in the last few months over a variety of issues.

Last month, India announced that Australia will be part of the Malabar exercise which effectively made it a drill by all four member nations of the Quad or Quadrilateral coalition which is primarily focusing on containing China's military expansionism in the Indo-Pacific region.

The first segment of the exercise will be from Nov 3 to 6 while the second phase of the drill is scheduled to be held from November 17 to 20 in the Arabian sea.

"The exercise, being conducted as a ‘non-contact, at sea only’ exercise in view of COVID-19 pandemic, will showcase the high-levels of synergy and coordination between the friendly navies, which is based on their shared values and commitment to an open, inclusive Indo-Pacific and a rules-based international order," the Indian Navy said in a statement on Monday.

China has been suspicious about the purpose of the Malabar exercise as it feels that the annual war game is an effort to contain its influence in the Indo-Pacific region.

The evolving situation in the Indo-Pacific region in the wake of China's increasing military muscle-flexing has become a major talking point among the leading global powers.

The US has been favouring making Quad a security architecture to check China's growing assertiveness.

The invitation by India to the Australian Navy for the exercise came two weeks after foreign ministers of the 'Quad' member nations held extensive talks in Tokyo with a focus on enhancing their cooperation in the Indo-Pacific, a region where China has been expanding its military influence.

The Indian Navy said the first phase of the exercise would witness complex and advanced naval exercises including surface, anti-submarine and anti-air warfare operations, besides cross deck flying, seamanship evolutions and weapon firing drills.

The Malabar exercise started in 1992 as a bilateral drill between the Indian Navy and the US Navy in the Indian Ocean. Japan became a permanent member of the exercise in 2015. The annual exercise was conducted off the coast of Guam in the Philippine Sea in 2018 and off the coast of Japan in 2019.

The Indian Navy will deploy a number of key platforms in the exercise which will include destroyer Ranvijay, frigate Shivalik, off-shore patrol vessel Sukanya, fleet support ship Shakti and submarine Sindhuraj.

Also, advanced jet trainer Hawk, long-range maritime patrol aircraft P-8I, Dornier maritime patrol aircraft, and several helicopters will be participating in the exercise, officials said.

US Navy ship USS John S McCain, a guided-missile destroyer, Australian Navy's long-range frigate HMAS Ballarat with integral MH-60 helicopter and Japan Maritime Self Defence Force's JS Onami, a destroyer, will be among key platforms to be part of the first phase of the Malabar exercise, they said.

During the recent Indo-US 2+2 talks, US Defence Secretary Mark Esper welcomed India's invitation to Australia to join the Malabar exercise.

After the invitation to the drill, Australian Defence Minister Linda Reynolds CSC said the Malabar exercise marked a "milestone opportunity" for the Australian defence force and that it will showcase the "deep trust" between four major Indo-Pacific democracies and their shared will to work together on common security interests.

For the last few years, Australia has been showing keen interest in participating in the exercise. Defence and security ties between India and Australia have been on an upswing in the last few years.

In June, India and Australia elevated their ties to a comprehensive strategic partnership and signed a landmark deal for reciprocal access to military bases for logistics support during an online summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Australian counterpart Scott Morrison.

The Mutual Logistics Support Agreement (MLSA) allows militaries of the two countries to use each other's bases for repair and replenishment of supplies, besides facilitating scaling up of overall defence cooperation.

The first phase of the Malabar exercise among the navies of India, the US, Japan and Australia Kicked off Visakhapatnam in the Bay of Bengal today, in a reflection of growing congruence in strategic interests of the four nations.

The first phase of the Malabar exercise among the navies of India, the US, Japan and Australia Kicked off Visakhapatnam in the Bay of Bengal today, in a reflection of growing congruence in strategic interests of the four nations. The exercise is taking place at a time India and China are locked in a nearly six-month-long bitter border standoff in eastern Ladakh that has significantly strained their ties. Japan, Australia and the US are also having friction with China in the last few months over a variety of issues. Last month, India announced that Australia will be part of the Malabar exercise which effectively made it a drill by all four member nations of the Quad or Quadrilateral coalition which is primarily focusing on containing China's military expansionism in the Indo-Pacific region. The first segment of the exercise will be from Nov 3 to 6 while the second phase of the drill is scheduled to be held from November 17 to 20 in the Arabian sea. "The exercise, being conducted as a ‘non-contact, at sea only’ exercise in view of COVID-19 pandemic, will showcase the high-levels of synergy and coordination between the friendly navies, which is based on their shared values and commitment to an open, inclusive Indo-Pacific and a rules-based international order," the Indian Navy said in a statement on Monday. China has been suspicious about the purpose of the Malabar exercise as it feels that the annual war game is an effort to contain its influence in the Indo-Pacific region. The evolving situation in the Indo-Pacific region in the wake of China's increasing military muscle-flexing has become a major talking point among the leading global powers. The US has been favouring making Quad a security architecture to check China's growing assertiveness. The invitation by India to the Australian Navy for the exercise came two weeks after foreign ministers of the 'Quad' member nations held extensive talks in Tokyo with a focus on enhancing their cooperation in the Indo-Pacific, a region where China has been expanding its military influence. The Indian Navy said the first phase of the exercise would witness complex and advanced naval exercises including surface, anti-submarine and anti-air warfare operations, besides cross deck flying, seamanship evolutions and weapon firing drills. The Malabar exercise started in 1992 as a bilateral drill between the Indian Navy and the US Navy in the Indian Ocean. Japan became a permanent member of the exercise in 2015. The annual exercise was conducted off the coast of Guam in the Philippine Sea in 2018 and off the coast of Japan in 2019. The Indian Navy will deploy a number of key platforms in the exercise which will include destroyer Ranvijay, frigate Shivalik, off-shore patrol vessel Sukanya, fleet support ship Shakti and submarine Sindhuraj. Also, advanced jet trainer Hawk, long-range maritime patrol aircraft P-8I, Dornier maritime patrol aircraft, and several helicopters will be participating in the exercise, officials said. US Navy ship USS John S McCain, a guided-missile destroyer, Australian Navy's long-range frigate HMAS Ballarat with integral MH-60 helicopter and Japan Maritime Self Defence Force's JS Onami, a destroyer, will be among key platforms to be part of the first phase of the Malabar exercise, they said. During the recent Indo-US 2+2 talks, US Defence Secretary Mark Esper welcomed India's invitation to Australia to join the Malabar exercise. After the invitation to the drill, Australian Defence Minister Linda Reynolds CSC said the Malabar exercise marked a "milestone opportunity" for the Australian defence force and that it will showcase the "deep trust" between four major Indo-Pacific democracies and their shared will to work together on common security interests. For the last few years, Australia has been showing keen interest in participating in the exercise. Defence and security ties between India and Australia have been on an upswing in the last few years. In June, India and Australia elevated their ties to a comprehensive strategic partnership and signed a landmark deal for reciprocal access to military bases for logistics support during an online summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Australian counterpart Scott Morrison. The Mutual Logistics Support Agreement (MLSA) allows militaries of the two countries to use each other's bases for repair and replenishment of supplies, besides facilitating scaling up of overall defence cooperation.

First phase of Malabar exercise begins today in Bay of Bengal

Amid China tension, Quad nations' naval drill in Bay of Bengal Today

Strongly hitting out at Pakistan, India has said it is taking advantage of the coronavirus pandemic to enhance support to cross-border terrorism and has resorted to ''unbridled hate speech" to try and create divisions among India's religious communities.

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Addressing an interactive dialogue with Special Rapporteur on contemporary forms of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia, and related intolerance, First Secretary in India's Permanent Mission to the UN Ashish Sharma on Monday said the hate speech by Pakistan is not merely directed towards one community in India but also against organisations, individuals and even against high ranking political leaders.

''While the world has come to a standstill due to the pandemic, Pakistan has only enhanced support to cross-border terrorism taking advantage of the pandemic,''&nbsp;he said.

Pakistan has resorted to ''unbridled hate speech trying to foment violence and intolerance in our country," he told the UN forum. India strongly hit out at Pakistan for abusing the UN platform to forward its ''nefarious political agenda.''

Sharma said that Pakistan is trying to ''create divisions among our religious communities as well. Fortunately, their provocation is falling on deaf ears since India has had a tradition of pluralism and co-existence where all communities live in harmony under a democratic framework.

India called on Pakistan to practice co-existence in their own country and eschew all sectarian violence, discrimination, and intolerance against their own people.

Sharma said the world today is confronted not only by the challenge of tackling the COVID-19 pandemic, but also the challenge of ''infodemic'', which in many cases has been responsible for a rise in hate speech and seeding hatred within communities.

In June, India along with 12 countries co-sponsored the Cross-Regional Statement on ''Infodemic''&nbsp;in the Context of COVID-19 - a first of its kind statement by the UN Member States to counter the increase in hate speech and misinformation during the pandemic.

''India is fighting COVID 19 pandemic in the most transparent manner with equal access to medical facilities to all citizens,''&nbsp;Sharma said at the Third Committee meeting of the General Assembly, adding that special efforts have been taken to ensure that vulnerable communities are provided adequate medical support.

Strongly hitting out at Pakistan, India has said it is taking advantage of the coronavirus pandemic to enhance support to cross-border terrorism and has resorted to ''unbridled hate speech" to try and create divisions among India's religious communities.

Strongly hitting out at Pakistan, India has said it is taking advantage of the coronavirus pandemic to enhance support to cross-border terrorism and has resorted to ''unbridled hate speech" to try and create divisions among India's religious communities. Watch 📺: India's Statement at the interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on contemporary forms of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance: ⤵️ pic.twitter.com/Uq49tn3WHc — India at UN, NY (@IndiaUNNewYork) November 2, 2020 × Addressing an interactive dialogue with Special Rapporteur on contemporary forms of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia, and related intolerance, First Secretary in India's Permanent Mission to the UN Ashish Sharma on Monday said the hate speech by Pakistan is not merely directed towards one community in India but also against organisations, individuals and even against high ranking political leaders. ''While the world has come to a standstill due to the pandemic, Pakistan has only enhanced support to cross-border terrorism taking advantage of the pandemic,'' he said. Pakistan has resorted to ''unbridled hate speech trying to foment violence and intolerance in our country," he told the UN forum. India strongly hit out at Pakistan for abusing the UN platform to forward its ''nefarious political agenda.'' Sharma said that Pakistan is trying to ''create divisions among our religious communities as well. Fortunately, their provocation is falling on deaf ears since India has had a tradition of pluralism and co-existence where all communities live in harmony under a democratic framework. India called on Pakistan to practice co-existence in their own country and eschew all sectarian violence, discrimination, and intolerance against their own people. Sharma said the world today is confronted not only by the challenge of tackling the COVID-19 pandemic, but also the challenge of ''infodemic'', which in many cases has been responsible for a rise in hate speech and seeding hatred within communities. In June, India along with 12 countries co-sponsored the Cross-Regional Statement on ''Infodemic'' in the Context of COVID-19 - a first of its kind statement by the UN Member States to counter the increase in hate speech and misinformation during the pandemic. ''India is fighting COVID 19 pandemic in the most transparent manner with equal access to medical facilities to all citizens,'' Sharma said at the Third Committee meeting of the General Assembly, adding that special efforts have been taken to ensure that vulnerable communities are provided adequate medical support.

Pak taking advantage of coronavirus pandemic to enhance cross-border terrorism: India

India in a statement at the United Nations General Assembly has highlighted how Pakistan has increased its support to cross border terror amid COVID pandemic but also fanned hate speech.&nbsp;

Indian diplomat Ashish Sharma said, "While the world has come to a standstill due to the pandemic, but Pakistan has only enhanced support to cross-border terrorism taking advantage of the pandemic."

Adding, "Pakistan has resorted to unbridled hate speech trying to foment violence and intolerance in our country. The hate speech by Pakistan is not merely directed towards one community in India but also against organisations, individuals and even against high ranking political leaders."

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Remember Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan has been making comments on Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi but also joined Turkey's Erdogan in recent criticism of French President Macron.

India pointed out to the challenge of ‘infodemic’ during the Pandemic which in "many cases has been responsible for rise in hate speech and seeding hatred within communities."

Earlier this year in June, India along with 12 countries co-sponsored the Cross-Regional Statement on “Infodemic” in the Context of COVID-19. The first of its kind statement by the UN Member States focused on the need to counter the increase in hate speech and misinformation during the pandemic.

India also explained how it "is fighting" COVID 19 pandemic in the "most transparent manner" with "equal access to medical facilities to all citizens" and "special efforts" to ensure that vulnerable communities are "provided adequate medical support."

India in a statement at the United Nations General Assembly has highlighted how Pakistan has increased its support to cross border terror amid COVID pandemic but also fanned hate speech.

India in a statement at the United Nations General Assembly has highlighted how Pakistan has increased its support to cross border terror amid COVID pandemic but also fanned hate speech. Indian diplomat Ashish Sharma said, "While the world has come to a standstill due to the pandemic, but Pakistan has only enhanced support to cross-border terrorism taking advantage of the pandemic." Adding, "Pakistan has resorted to unbridled hate speech trying to foment violence and intolerance in our country. The hate speech by Pakistan is not merely directed towards one community in India but also against organisations, individuals and even against high ranking political leaders." Watch 📺: India's Statement at the interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on contemporary forms of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance: ⤵️ pic.twitter.com/Uq49tn3WHc — India at UN, NY (@IndiaUNNewYork) November 2, 2020 × Remember Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan has been making comments on Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi but also joined Turkey's Erdogan in recent criticism of French President Macron. India pointed out to the challenge of ‘infodemic’ during the Pandemic which in "many cases has been responsible for rise in hate speech and seeding hatred within communities." Earlier this year in June, India along with 12 countries co-sponsored the Cross-Regional Statement on “Infodemic” in the Context of COVID-19. The first of its kind statement by the UN Member States focused on the need to counter the increase in hate speech and misinformation during the pandemic. India also explained how it "is fighting" COVID 19 pandemic in the "most transparent manner" with "equal access to medical facilities to all citizens" and "special efforts" to ensure that vulnerable communities are "provided adequate medical support."

Pakistan has enhanced support to cross-border terrorism amid COVID pandemic: India

Austria has thanked India for extending the support in the aftermath of the terror attack in its capital Vienna.

Austria's envoy to India, Brigitte Öppinger-Walchshofer speaking to WION said, “We are truly grateful for the solidarity of India in these difficult hours. Austria will not be intimidated by cowardly acts of terror."&nbsp;

Also watch|<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-cctv-witness-footage-show-terrorist-suspect-open-fire-in-vienna-340048">&nbsp;CCTV, witness footage show terrorist suspect open fire in Vienna</a>

"Together we will defend our open and democratic society,” she added.

Three people have been killed in terror attacks across six locations in the national capital Vienna.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted "Deeply shocked and saddened by the dastardly terror attacks in Vienna" and "India stands with Austria during this tragic time. My thoughts are with the victims and their families."

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Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz described the incident as a "repulsive terror attack". The country's interior minister said that the terrorist who led the attack was a supporter of the Islamic state. The incident comes days after France saw a number of terror attacks in form of Knife attacks.

Austria has thanked India for extending the support in the aftermath of the terror attack in its capital Vienna. Austria's envoy to India, Brigitte Öppinger-Walchshofer speaking to WION said, “We are truly grateful for the solidarity of India in these difficult hours.

Austria has thanked India for extending the support in the aftermath of the terror attack in its capital Vienna. Austria's envoy to India, Brigitte Öppinger-Walchshofer speaking to WION said, “We are truly grateful for the solidarity of India in these difficult hours. Austria will not be intimidated by cowardly acts of terror." Also watch| CCTV, witness footage show terrorist suspect open fire in Vienna "Together we will defend our open and democratic society,” she added. Three people have been killed in terror attacks across six locations in the national capital Vienna. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted "Deeply shocked and saddened by the dastardly terror attacks in Vienna" and "India stands with Austria during this tragic time. My thoughts are with the victims and their families." Deeply shocked and saddened by the dastardly terror attacks in Vienna. India stands with Austria during this tragic time. My thoughts are with the victims and their families. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 3, 2020 × Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz described the incident as a "repulsive terror attack". The country's interior minister said that the terrorist who led the attack was a supporter of the Islamic state. The incident comes days after France saw a number of terror attacks in form of Knife attacks.

Austria thanks India for standing in difficult times; says will defend our open societies

After nine BJP candidates, including Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri, were elected unopposed to the Upper House on Monday, the ruling NDA dispensation further consolidated its position in Rajya Sabha crossing the 100-mark. 
 
The Congress, which dominated the Upper House for a long time, is now down to 38 seats - its lowest ever tally - in the 242-member House after it lost two more seats to the BJP in the current elections. 
 
Out of the 11 Rajya Sabha seats up for grabs- 10 from Uttar Pradesh and one from Uttarakhand - nine were won by BJP candidates, including Union Urban Development Minister Puri, taking the party's tally to 92 seats. 
 
It was a gain of six as three of the candidates were re-elected. NDA constituent JD (U) has five seats. Ten candidates were declared elected to the Rajya Sabha and were also given their certificates, Assistant Returning Officer Mohd Mushahid said. 
 
Besides Puri, those elected to the upper house of Parliament are BJP’s Neeraj Shekhar, Arun Singh, Geeta Shakya, Haridwar Dubey, Brijlal, B L Varma and Seema Dwivedi; Samajwadi Party’s Ram Gopal Yadav; and BSP’s Ramji Gautam, he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

After nine BJP candidates, including Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri, were elected unopposed to the Upper House on Monday, the ruling NDA dispensation further consolidated its position in Rajya Sabha crossing the 100-mark.

After nine BJP candidates, including Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri, were elected unopposed to the Upper House on Monday, the ruling NDA dispensation further consolidated its position in Rajya Sabha crossing the 100-mark. The Congress, which dominated the Upper House for a long time, is now down to 38 seats - its lowest ever tally - in the 242-member House after it lost two more seats to the BJP in the current elections. Out of the 11 Rajya Sabha seats up for grabs- 10 from Uttar Pradesh and one from Uttarakhand - nine were won by BJP candidates, including Union Urban Development Minister Puri, taking the party's tally to 92 seats. It was a gain of six as three of the candidates were re-elected. NDA constituent JD (U) has five seats. Ten candidates were declared elected to the Rajya Sabha and were also given their certificates, Assistant Returning Officer Mohd Mushahid said. Besides Puri, those elected to the upper house of Parliament are BJP’s Neeraj Shekhar, Arun Singh, Geeta Shakya, Haridwar Dubey, Brijlal, B L Varma and Seema Dwivedi; Samajwadi Party’s Ram Gopal Yadav; and BSP’s Ramji Gautam, he added. (With inputs from agencies)

NDA crosses 100-seats mark Rajya Sabha; Congress drops to lowest ever tally

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday strongly condemned the attack at Kabul University and asserted that India will continue to support Afghanistan's brave struggle against terrorism.

'I strongly condemn the cowardly terrorist attack at Kabul University today. Our prayers are with the families of the victims and the injured,' Prime Minister Modi tweeted.

'We will continue to support Afghanistan's brave struggle against terrorism,' he said.&nbsp;

At least 22 people were killed when attackers stormed one of Afghanistan's main universities on Monday, detonating a suicide bomb and spraying classrooms with bullets in a brazen hours-long assault claimed by Islamic State group.

The attack on Kabul University, which came as violence surges across Afghanistan, marked the second time in less than two weeks that an educational institution was targeted in the capital by IS extremists.

Survivors described horrific scenes following the incident that unfolded around 11:00 am (0530 GMT) when a suicide bomber blew himself up inside the campus.

Two gunmen then started shooting, officials said, sending hundreds of students fleeing and scrambling over perimeter walls.

Fraidoon Ahmadi, a 23-year-old student, told AFP he was in class when gunfire broke out at the university.

"We were very scared and we thought it could be the last day of our lives... boys and girls were shouting, praying and crying for help," Ahmadi said.

He said he and other students were besieged for more than two hours before being rescued.&nbsp;

Distressing images posted online showed what appeared to be the bodies of slain students lying by desks and chairs.

"They opened fire ... all my classmates were lying in blood, either dead or wounded," one student told a local television channel, adding that he escaped by climbing out a window.

IS said two of its fighters carried out the brazen daylight attack.

(With inputs from agencies)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday strongly condemned the attack at Kabul University and asserted that India will continue to support Afghanistan's brave struggle against terrorism.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday strongly condemned the attack at Kabul University and asserted that India will continue to support Afghanistan's brave struggle against terrorism. 'I strongly condemn the cowardly terrorist attack at Kabul University today. Our prayers are with the families of the victims and the injured,' Prime Minister Modi tweeted. 'We will continue to support Afghanistan's brave struggle against terrorism,' he said. At least 22 people were killed when attackers stormed one of Afghanistan's main universities on Monday, detonating a suicide bomb and spraying classrooms with bullets in a brazen hours-long assault claimed by Islamic State group. The attack on Kabul University, which came as violence surges across Afghanistan, marked the second time in less than two weeks that an educational institution was targeted in the capital by IS extremists. Survivors described horrific scenes following the incident that unfolded around 11:00 am (0530 GMT) when a suicide bomber blew himself up inside the campus. Two gunmen then started shooting, officials said, sending hundreds of students fleeing and scrambling over perimeter walls. Fraidoon Ahmadi, a 23-year-old student, told AFP he was in class when gunfire broke out at the university. "We were very scared and we thought it could be the last day of our lives... boys and girls were shouting, praying and crying for help," Ahmadi said. He said he and other students were besieged for more than two hours before being rescued. Distressing images posted online showed what appeared to be the bodies of slain students lying by desks and chairs. "They opened fire ... all my classmates were lying in blood, either dead or wounded," one student told a local television channel, adding that he escaped by climbing out a window. IS said two of its fighters carried out the brazen daylight attack. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Narendra Modi strongly condemns 'cowardly' terrorist attack at Kabul University

Kanta Prasad, the owner of the popular eatery 'Baba Ka Dhaba' in south Delhi's Malviya Nagar, has filed a complaint against Instagram influencer Gaurav Wasan for misappropriation of funds, police said on Sunday.

Prasad (80) had shot to fame after a video of him tearfully recounting the desperation of the months since the lockdown was shared widely across social media platforms recently.

Ironically, Prasad's despair had come to light when Wasan captured the eatery owner breaking down as he talked about his struggles in a video shared on the YouTuber's social media account.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/crowds-throng-delhis-small-eatery-baba-ka-dhaba-as-emotional-video-goes-viral-333520">Crowds throng Delhi's small eatery 'Baba Ka Dhaba' as emotional video goes viral</a>

In his complaint to police, Prasad said Wasan shot his video and posted it online, and convinced the public on social media to donate money to the eatery onwer.

He further alleged that Wasan "intentionally and deliberately shared only his and his family/friends bank details and mobile numbers with the donors and collected a huge amount of donation through different modes of payments i.E bank account/wallets without providing any information to the complainant".

The owner of the food joint also accused the YouTuber of not providing details of the financial transactions to him.

''We received the complaint yesterday at the Malviya Nagar Police Station and the matter is being probed. No FIR has been registered yet in the case,''&nbsp;Atul Kumar Thakur, Deputy Commissioner of Police (South), said.

After the video went viral, Baba ka Dhaba was the cynosure of many eyes across the country, including celebs from showbiz who posted appeals asking people to go there and get themselves a meal.

A day after the heartbreaking video, #Babakadhaba was trending on Twitter and the food joint was flooded with more customers than it had seen in 30 years of being in business.

Kanta Prasad, the owner of the popular eatery 'Baba Ka Dhaba' in south Delhi's Malviya Nagar, has filed a complaint against Instagram influencer Gaurav Wasan for misappropriation of funds, police said on Sunday.

Kanta Prasad, the owner of the popular eatery 'Baba Ka Dhaba' in south Delhi's Malviya Nagar, has filed a complaint against Instagram influencer Gaurav Wasan for misappropriation of funds, police said on Sunday. Prasad (80) had shot to fame after a video of him tearfully recounting the desperation of the months since the lockdown was shared widely across social media platforms recently. Ironically, Prasad's despair had come to light when Wasan captured the eatery owner breaking down as he talked about his struggles in a video shared on the YouTuber's social media account. Also read: Crowds throng Delhi's small eatery 'Baba Ka Dhaba' as emotional video goes viral In his complaint to police, Prasad said Wasan shot his video and posted it online, and convinced the public on social media to donate money to the eatery onwer. He further alleged that Wasan "intentionally and deliberately shared only his and his family/friends bank details and mobile numbers with the donors and collected a huge amount of donation through different modes of payments i.E bank account/wallets without providing any information to the complainant". The owner of the food joint also accused the YouTuber of not providing details of the financial transactions to him. ''We received the complaint yesterday at the Malviya Nagar Police Station and the matter is being probed. No FIR has been registered yet in the case,'' Atul Kumar Thakur, Deputy Commissioner of Police (South), said. After the video went viral, Baba ka Dhaba was the cynosure of many eyes across the country, including celebs from showbiz who posted appeals asking people to go there and get themselves a meal. A day after the heartbreaking video, #Babakadhaba was trending on Twitter and the food joint was flooded with more customers than it had seen in 30 years of being in business.

'Baba Ka Dhaba' owner accuses YouTuber of misappropriation of funds

India has reported&nbsp;45,230 new coronavirus infections&nbsp;in the last 24 hours taking the total tally to&nbsp;82,29,313.

With&nbsp;496 new deaths due to the novel virus, the death toll mounted&nbsp;to 1,22,607.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaFightsCorona?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaFightsCorona</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Unite2FightCorona?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Unite2FightCorona</a> <a href="https://t.co/s0Je4txBnJ">pic.twitter.com/s0Je4txBnJ</a>
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According to the Ministry of Health and&nbsp;Family Welfare,&nbsp;active COVID-19 cases in the country stand at 5,61,908, while 75,44,798 people have recovered from the disease so far.

With 8,55,800 samples tested on&nbsp;November 1, the total testing tally surged to&nbsp;11,07,43,103 as per the Indian Council of Medical Research.

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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://twitter.com/hashtag/Unite2FightCorona?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Unite2FightCorona</a> <a href="https://t.co/r4XaaVeNKg">pic.twitter.com/r4XaaVeNKg</a>
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&nbsp;

India has reported 45,230 new coronavirus infections in the last 24 hours taking the total tally to 82,29,313. With 496 new deaths due to the novel virus, the death toll mounted to 1,22,607.

India has reported 45,230 new coronavirus infections in the last 24 hours taking the total tally to 82,29,313. With 496 new deaths due to the novel virus, the death toll mounted to 1,22,607. #IndiaFightsCorona #Unite2FightCorona pic.twitter.com/s0Je4txBnJ — Ministry of Health (@MoHFW_INDIA) November 2, 2020 × According to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, active COVID-19 cases in the country stand at 5,61,908, while 75,44,798 people have recovered from the disease so far. With 8,55,800 samples tested on November 1, the total testing tally surged to 11,07,43,103 as per the Indian Council of Medical Research. COVID-19 Testing Update. For more details visit: https://t.co/dI1pqvXAsZ @MoHFW_INDIA @DeptHealthRes #ICMRFIGHTSCOVID19 #IndiaFightsCOVID19 #CoronaUpdatesInIndia #COVID19 #Unite2FightCorona pic.twitter.com/r4XaaVeNKg — ICMR (@ICMRDELHI) November 2, 2020 ×

India reports 45,230 new COVID-19 cases; total tally surges to 8.2 million

In his second leg of the three-nation European tour in Germany, India's foreign secretary Harsh Shringla met with top German Diplomats and interacted with think tanks. During his meetings, the foreign secretary highlighted the common interest New Delhi shares with Europe and Germany to combat terror and extremism and welcomed Berlin's strategy on Indo-Pacific.&nbsp;

During his meetings with German interlocutors in Berlin, Foreign Secretary told that India is "stunned by the recent terror attacks in France" and these are threats to "our common democratic values and freedom of expression". He said, that the terror attacks in France "vindicate our long term assertion that terror knows no boundaries."

France has seen a number of terror attacks in form of Knife attacks in the country after a teacher in the country had shown caricature of Prophet Muhammad. Last week, a terror attack in Nice, killed 3 people.&nbsp;

We should learn to call "a spade a spade" on terror front, India's FS told his German interlocutors pointing out to Pakistan that how some "countries" who are the fountainhead of terror are "claiming to be victims of terror to gain international sympathy.”

He called upon "like-minded countries" to work together and "there can be no justification for terror under any circumstances".

New Delhi also welcomed Germany’s foreign policy turn towards the Indo-Pacific. The German government earlier this year announced its Indo Pacific strategy, a move that shows greater interest in the concept that Beijing views suspicious.

FS highlighted how "India" is an important factor in the region and how it is "the most reliable partner to implement our shared vision for the region." On a broader point of discussion China's debt-trap diplomacy, need to diversify supply chains were other points of discussion.&nbsp;

In his last leg of the visit, FS will be in London and will meet permanent undersecretary of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, Sir Philip Barton.

In his second leg of the three-nation European tour in Germany, India's foreign secretary Harsh Shringla met with top German Diplomats and interacted with think tanks.

In his second leg of the three-nation European tour in Germany, India's foreign secretary Harsh Shringla met with top German Diplomats and interacted with think tanks. During his meetings, the foreign secretary highlighted the common interest New Delhi shares with Europe and Germany to combat terror and extremism and welcomed Berlin's strategy on Indo-Pacific. During his meetings with German interlocutors in Berlin, Foreign Secretary told that India is "stunned by the recent terror attacks in France" and these are threats to "our common democratic values and freedom of expression". He said, that the terror attacks in France "vindicate our long term assertion that terror knows no boundaries." France has seen a number of terror attacks in form of Knife attacks in the country after a teacher in the country had shown caricature of Prophet Muhammad. Last week, a terror attack in Nice, killed 3 people. We should learn to call "a spade a spade" on terror front, India's FS told his German interlocutors pointing out to Pakistan that how some "countries" who are the fountainhead of terror are "claiming to be victims of terror to gain international sympathy.” He called upon "like-minded countries" to work together and "there can be no justification for terror under any circumstances". New Delhi also welcomed Germany’s foreign policy turn towards the Indo-Pacific. The German government earlier this year announced its Indo Pacific strategy, a move that shows greater interest in the concept that Beijing views suspicious. FS highlighted how "India" is an important factor in the region and how it is "the most reliable partner to implement our shared vision for the region." On a broader point of discussion China's debt-trap diplomacy, need to diversify supply chains were other points of discussion. In his last leg of the visit, FS will be in London and will meet permanent undersecretary of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, Sir Philip Barton.

In Berlin, Foreign Secretary highlights common fight against terror, joint strategy on Indo-pacific

Elections to choose the president of the inter-parliamentary union (IPU) are underway with the results expected to be announced by 4th November. Candidates of 4 countries are in the fray- Portugal's Duarte Pacheco, Pakistan's Muhammad Sanjrani, Uzbekistan's Akmal Saidov and Canada's Pakistani origin Salma Ataullahjan.&nbsp;

According to officials, India is set to oppose Pakistan’s candidature and may back Portugal’s Duarte Pacheco or Akmal Saidov from Uzbekistan over Muhammad Sanjrani from Pakistan.

Inter-Parliamentary Union or IPU, based in Geneva is a body consisting of representatives from National Parliaments of 179 countries. Each national parliament sends 3 of its legislatures to represent the country whenever the meeting of IPU takes place.&nbsp;

The Governing Council is meeting virtually amid the COVID crisis from first to 4th November and will be voting virtually. The elections will take place through a remote electronic secret ballot.

The Indian Parliamentary Delegation is led by Speaker of the Lok Sabha Om Birla and Poonamben Hematbhai Maadam and Swapan Dasgupta both legislators in the Indian Parliament. Secretary-General of the lower house of the Indian Parliament (Lok Sabha), Snehlata Shrivastava and Secretary-General of the upper house of the Indian Parliament (Rajya Sabha) Deepak Verma will also attend the Virtual Session.

The term of the new IPU president will be from 2020-2023. The Previous IPU President was Mexican MP Gabriela Cuevas Barron who completed the tenure in Oct.

Elections to choose the president of the inter-parliamentary union (IPU) are underway with the results expected to be announced by 4th November. Candidates of 4 countries are in the fray- Portugal's Duarte Pacheco, Pakistan's Muhammad Sanjrani, Uzbekistan's Akmal Saidov and Canada's Pakistani origin Salma Ataullahjan.

Elections to choose the president of the inter-parliamentary union (IPU) are underway with the results expected to be announced by 4th November. Candidates of 4 countries are in the fray- Portugal's Duarte Pacheco, Pakistan's Muhammad Sanjrani, Uzbekistan's Akmal Saidov and Canada's Pakistani origin Salma Ataullahjan. According to officials, India is set to oppose Pakistan’s candidature and may back Portugal’s Duarte Pacheco or Akmal Saidov from Uzbekistan over Muhammad Sanjrani from Pakistan. Inter-Parliamentary Union or IPU, based in Geneva is a body consisting of representatives from National Parliaments of 179 countries. Each national parliament sends 3 of its legislatures to represent the country whenever the meeting of IPU takes place. The Governing Council is meeting virtually amid the COVID crisis from first to 4th November and will be voting virtually. The elections will take place through a remote electronic secret ballot. The Indian Parliamentary Delegation is led by Speaker of the Lok Sabha Om Birla and Poonamben Hematbhai Maadam and Swapan Dasgupta both legislators in the Indian Parliament. Secretary-General of the lower house of the Indian Parliament (Lok Sabha), Snehlata Shrivastava and Secretary-General of the upper house of the Indian Parliament (Rajya Sabha) Deepak Verma will also attend the Virtual Session. The term of the new IPU president will be from 2020-2023. The Previous IPU President was Mexican MP Gabriela Cuevas Barron who completed the tenure in Oct.

Elections for Inter-Parliamentary Union: Candidates from 4 countries in the fray; India to oppose Pakistan candidature 

India's 100 tonnes of food arrived for the African nation of Sudan arrived at Port Sudan on Monday. The aid arrived on Indian Naval ship INS Airavat and support comes even as New Delhi has reached out to four African countries amid covid pandemic. These 4 African countries are--Sudan, South Sudan, Djibouti and Eritrea.

All in All, India is sending 270 MT tonnes of food aid to all the four countries. Food aid comprises of 155 MT of wheat flour, 65 MT of rice and 50 MT of sugar. INS Airavat will make port calls at Mombasa, Massawa and Djibouti later. 
&nbsp; 
The multi ministry mission involves the Indian Navy and the Ministry of Defense and External Affairs. A Navy release said that the mission is in "line with the Prime Minister’s vision of Security and Growth for All in the Region ‘SAGAR’ and highlights the importance accorded by India to relations with her maritime neighbours and further strengthens the existing bond."

The mission is being termed "Mission Sagar-II", given earlier this year India launched ‘Mission Sagar’ during the May-June period to provide food and medical aid to five countries in the Indian ocean to deal with the impact of the pandemic. These countries were--Maldives, Mauritius, Seychelles, Madagascar and Comoros, and provided food aid and medicines.

India's 100 tonnes of food arrived for the African nation of Sudan arrived at Port Sudan on Monday. The aid arrived on Indian Naval ship INS Airavat and support comes even as New Delhi has reached out to four African countries amid covid pandemic.

India's 100 tonnes of food arrived for the African nation of Sudan arrived at Port Sudan on Monday. The aid arrived on Indian Naval ship INS Airavat and support comes even as New Delhi has reached out to four African countries amid covid pandemic. These 4 African countries are--Sudan, South Sudan, Djibouti and Eritrea. All in All, India is sending 270 MT tonnes of food aid to all the four countries. Food aid comprises of 155 MT of wheat flour, 65 MT of rice and 50 MT of sugar. INS Airavat will make port calls at Mombasa, Massawa and Djibouti later. The multi ministry mission involves the Indian Navy and the Ministry of Defense and External Affairs. A Navy release said that the mission is in "line with the Prime Minister’s vision of Security and Growth for All in the Region ‘SAGAR’ and highlights the importance accorded by India to relations with her maritime neighbours and further strengthens the existing bond." The mission is being termed "Mission Sagar-II", given earlier this year India launched ‘Mission Sagar’ during the May-June period to provide food and medical aid to five countries in the Indian ocean to deal with the impact of the pandemic. These countries were--Maldives, Mauritius, Seychelles, Madagascar and Comoros, and provided food aid and medicines.

India's food aid arrives in Sudan as part of New Delhi's outreach amid covid

The National Green Tribunal Monday issued notice to Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) and four state governments on whether the use of firecrackers is banned from November 7-30 in the interest of public health and environment.

A bench headed by NGT Chairperson Justice A K Goel sought response from MoEF, Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Delhi Pollution Control Committee, Police Commissioner of Delhi and the governments of Delhi, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan.

The NGT also appointed senior advocate Raj Panjwani and advocate Shibhani Ghosh to assist it as amicus curiae in the matter.

The tribunal was hearing a plea by Indian Social Responsibility Network, filed through Santosh Gupta, seeking action against pollution by use of firecrackers in NCR during the time air quality is unsatisfactory with the potential of the severity of COVID-19 pandemic.

&nbsp;The application referred to the statement of the Union Health Minister and the Health Minister of Delhi that during the festive season there will be a rise of COVID-19 cases due to air pollution. Increased pollution may further affect vulnerable groups and increase the fatality rate.

COVID-19 cases in Delhi may go up to 15,000 per day, as against the current cases of about 5,000 per day.

"Use of green crackers will not remedy the situation. The smoke will choke and may create gas chamber like situation. It will lead to poor visibility, hazy conditions and asphyxia," the plea said.

The National Green Tribunal Monday issued notice to Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) and four state governments on whether the use of firecrackers is banned from November 7-30 in the interest of public health and environment.

The National Green Tribunal Monday issued notice to Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) and four state governments on whether the use of firecrackers is banned from November 7-30 in the interest of public health and environment. A bench headed by NGT Chairperson Justice A K Goel sought response from MoEF, Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Delhi Pollution Control Committee, Police Commissioner of Delhi and the governments of Delhi, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan. The NGT also appointed senior advocate Raj Panjwani and advocate Shibhani Ghosh to assist it as amicus curiae in the matter. The tribunal was hearing a plea by Indian Social Responsibility Network, filed through Santosh Gupta, seeking action against pollution by use of firecrackers in NCR during the time air quality is unsatisfactory with the potential of the severity of COVID-19 pandemic. The application referred to the statement of the Union Health Minister and the Health Minister of Delhi that during the festive season there will be a rise of COVID-19 cases due to air pollution. Increased pollution may further affect vulnerable groups and increase the fatality rate. COVID-19 cases in Delhi may go up to 15,000 per day, as against the current cases of about 5,000 per day. "Use of green crackers will not remedy the situation. The smoke will choke and may create gas chamber like situation. It will lead to poor visibility, hazy conditions and asphyxia," the plea said.

Air pollution: NGT notice to Centre to blanket ban firecrackers from November 7-30

Priyanca Radhakrishnan on Monday became New Zealand's first-ever Indian-origin minister after Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern inducted five new ministers into her executive.

Born in India, Radhakrishnan, 41, went to school in Singapore before moving to New Zealand to further her education.

She has spent her work life advocating on behalf of people whose voices are often unheard&nbsp;of women survivors of domestic violence, and migrant workers who have been exploited.

She was elected first as a Member of Parliament belonging to the Labour Party in September 2017.

In 2019, she was appointed the Parliamentary Private Secretary to the Minister for Ethnic Communities.

Her work in that area has helped her build the base for her new role of Minister for Diversity, Inclusion, and Ethnic Communities.

In addition to this, she has become the Minister for the Community and Voluntary Sector and Associate Minister for Social Development and Employment.

She has become New Zealand's first-ever Kiwi Indian Minister, the New Zealand Herald newspaper quoted Indian Weekender as saying.

Radhakrishnan, who is from the 2017 intake of new MPs, is a minister outside of the Cabinet.

She lives in Auckland with her husband.

Announcing the names of the new ministers, Prime Minister Ardern said: "I am excited to be bringing in some new talent, with the first-hand experience in the areas that they will be working in, and reflecting the New Zealand that elected us on the 17th of October?.

"Within this lineup, I'm playing to people's strengths," she said.

"This is a Cabinet and an executive that is based on merit but also happens to be incredibly diverse," Ardern said, days after her center-left Labour Party won a landslide victory in the country's general election.

The new executive will be sworn in on Friday, which will be followed by the Cabinet's first meeting.

"Much of what we're focused on is making sure we've got our economic recovery hastened," the 40-year-old prime minister said.

If ministers don't deliver, they will be shown the door, Ardern warned.

Priyanca Radhakrishnan on Monday became New Zealand's first-ever Indian-origin minister after Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern inducted five new ministers into her executive.

Priyanca Radhakrishnan on Monday became New Zealand's first-ever Indian-origin minister after Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern inducted five new ministers into her executive. Born in India, Radhakrishnan, 41, went to school in Singapore before moving to New Zealand to further her education. She has spent her work life advocating on behalf of people whose voices are often unheard of women survivors of domestic violence, and migrant workers who have been exploited. She was elected first as a Member of Parliament belonging to the Labour Party in September 2017. In 2019, she was appointed the Parliamentary Private Secretary to the Minister for Ethnic Communities. Her work in that area has helped her build the base for her new role of Minister for Diversity, Inclusion, and Ethnic Communities. In addition to this, she has become the Minister for the Community and Voluntary Sector and Associate Minister for Social Development and Employment. She has become New Zealand's first-ever Kiwi Indian Minister, the New Zealand Herald newspaper quoted Indian Weekender as saying. Radhakrishnan, who is from the 2017 intake of new MPs, is a minister outside of the Cabinet. She lives in Auckland with her husband. Announcing the names of the new ministers, Prime Minister Ardern said: "I am excited to be bringing in some new talent, with the first-hand experience in the areas that they will be working in, and reflecting the New Zealand that elected us on the 17th of October?. "Within this lineup, I'm playing to people's strengths," she said. "This is a Cabinet and an executive that is based on merit but also happens to be incredibly diverse," Ardern said, days after her center-left Labour Party won a landslide victory in the country's general election. The new executive will be sworn in on Friday, which will be followed by the Cabinet's first meeting. "Much of what we're focused on is making sure we've got our economic recovery hastened," the 40-year-old prime minister said. If ministers don't deliver, they will be shown the door, Ardern warned.

Priyanca Radhakrishnan becomes New Zealand's first-ever Indian-origin minister: Report

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping are expected to thrice share same virtual platform&nbsp;in the month of&nbsp;November.&nbsp;

These three virtual&nbsp;summits are -- Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Heads of State summit on November 10, BRICS summit on November 17, and the G20 summit on November 21 and 22.

Russia will chair the BRICS and SCO grouping, and G20 summit will be hosted by Saudi Arabia.

This will be the first time both the leaders will interact amidst the tensions at the Line of Actual Control (LAC).&nbsp;

Ties between the two neighbouring countries deteriorated after the Galwan incident of June 15 -- in which 20 Indian soldiers died.

In the past, high-level engagement has happened on the sidelines of such summits. This time around, no such meet is expected.

Earlier this year, Saudi Arabia hosted an extraordinary virtual summit of G20 leaders to jointly come out with a strategy to deal with the coronavirus pandemic. Modi and Xi were present in the meet. But this happened much before the Galwan incident.

Other than SCO, BRICS and G20, the month of November will see ASEAN virtual summit from the 13th to the 15th, and SCO heads of the government will meet on November 30.

While ASEAN will be hosted by Vietnam, the latter will happen in New Delhi (and by protocol, Pakistan and China will be invited).

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping are expected to thrice share same virtual platform in the month of November. These three virtual summits are -- Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Heads of State summit on November 10, BRICS summit on November 17, and the G20 summit on November 21 and 22.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping are expected to thrice share same virtual platform in the month of November. These three virtual summits are -- Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Heads of State summit on November 10, BRICS summit on November 17, and the G20 summit on November 21 and 22. Russia will chair the BRICS and SCO grouping, and G20 summit will be hosted by Saudi Arabia. This will be the first time both the leaders will interact amidst the tensions at the Line of Actual Control (LAC). Ties between the two neighbouring countries deteriorated after the Galwan incident of June 15 -- in which 20 Indian soldiers died. In the past, high-level engagement has happened on the sidelines of such summits. This time around, no such meet is expected. Earlier this year, Saudi Arabia hosted an extraordinary virtual summit of G20 leaders to jointly come out with a strategy to deal with the coronavirus pandemic. Modi and Xi were present in the meet. But this happened much before the Galwan incident. Other than SCO, BRICS and G20, the month of November will see ASEAN virtual summit from the 13th to the 15th, and SCO heads of the government will meet on November 30. While ASEAN will be hosted by Vietnam, the latter will happen in New Delhi (and by protocol, Pakistan and China will be invited).

Indian PM, Chinese president to share same virtual platform thrice in November

Chief operational commander of terrorist group Hizbul Mujahideen, Saifullah has been killed during an encounter with police and security forces at Rangreth in Jammu and Kashmir`s Srinagar district on Sunday, officials said.

India: Hizbul Mujahideen chief Saifullah killed in encounter near Srinagar

India has slammed Pakistan's plan&nbsp;to convert Pakistan occupied Kashmir's (PoK) Gilgit Baltistan as the 5th province of the country. The development comes after Pakistani PM Imran Khan today announced that his government plans to accord “provisional provincial status” to the region.

The Ministry of external affairs in a strongly worded statement said, India "firmly rejects" the attempt by Pakistan to bring "material changes" to a "part of Indian territory, under its illegal and forcible occupation" and reiterated that the Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh are an "integral part of India by virtue of the legal, complete and irrevocable accession" of Jammu and Kashmir to the Union of India in 1947.

Adding further that "Pakistan has no locus standi on territories illegally and forcibly occupied by it." and such attempts by the country "intended to camouflage its illegal occupation" cannot hide the "grave human rights violations, exploitation and denial of freedom for over seven decades to the people residing in these Pakistan occupied territories."

This is the first time Imran Khan has publically announced his intention to announce the area as a province of Pakistan, and it was expected to draw a strong reaction from New Delhi.&nbsp;

New Delhi also called on Pakistan that, "instead of seeking to alter the status of these Indian territories", Islamabad should "immediately vacate all areas under its illegal occupation.”

What is to be seen, is if China will reach out to United Nations on Pakistani action, given that in 2019 Beijing had gone to the New York-based body after India removed the special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

Pakistan has 4 provinces as of now--most populated Punjab, the southern Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa bordering Afghanistan and the largest one, also resource-rich Balochistan.

India has slammed Pakistan's plan to convert Pakistan occupied Kashmir's (PoK) Gilgit Baltistan as the 5th province of the country. The development comes after Pakistani PM Imran Khan today announced that his government plans to accord “provisional provincial status” to the region.

India has slammed Pakistan's plan to convert Pakistan occupied Kashmir's (PoK) Gilgit Baltistan as the 5th province of the country. The development comes after Pakistani PM Imran Khan today announced that his government plans to accord “provisional provincial status” to the region. The Ministry of external affairs in a strongly worded statement said, India "firmly rejects" the attempt by Pakistan to bring "material changes" to a "part of Indian territory, under its illegal and forcible occupation" and reiterated that the Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh are an "integral part of India by virtue of the legal, complete and irrevocable accession" of Jammu and Kashmir to the Union of India in 1947. Adding further that "Pakistan has no locus standi on territories illegally and forcibly occupied by it." and such attempts by the country "intended to camouflage its illegal occupation" cannot hide the "grave human rights violations, exploitation and denial of freedom for over seven decades to the people residing in these Pakistan occupied territories." This is the first time Imran Khan has publically announced his intention to announce the area as a province of Pakistan, and it was expected to draw a strong reaction from New Delhi. New Delhi also called on Pakistan that, "instead of seeking to alter the status of these Indian territories", Islamabad should "immediately vacate all areas under its illegal occupation.” What is to be seen, is if China will reach out to United Nations on Pakistani action, given that in 2019 Beijing had gone to the New York-based body after India removed the special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir. Pakistan has 4 provinces as of now--most populated Punjab, the southern Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa bordering Afghanistan and the largest one, also resource-rich Balochistan.

'Attempt to hide illegal occupation': India slams Pakistan's Gilgit-Baltistan move

Tamil Nadu Agriculture Minister R Doraikannu, who was battling Covid-19, has died, the hospital treating him said on Sunday.

The 72 year-old minister breathed his last late on Saturday night, Kauvery Hospital Executive Director Dr Aravdindan Selvaraj said in a medical bulletin.

"With deep grief, we announce the sad demise of Honourable Minister for Agriculture R Doraikannu," on Saturday at 11.15 pm, he said.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with the grieving family during this difficult period," he added.

Tamil Nadu Governor Banwarilal Purohit condoled the death of Daoraikannu and said he was saddened to know about the demise of the Minister.

Doraikkannu "was known for his simplicity, humbleness, straightforwardness, governance skills and commitment towards the welfare of farming community..."

"He handled Ministry of Agriculture with full dedication and engraved his strong mark. His untimely demise is an irreparable loss to the people of Tamil Nadu and particularly to the AIADMK party," he said in his condolence message.

Purohit conveyed his deep condolences to the bereaved members of the family and said he prayed to the Almighty God to rest his soul in peace.

Doraikkannu was elected to the Tamil Nadu Assembly from Papanasam in Thanjavur district in 2006, 2011 and 2016, with the late chief minister J Jayalalithaa inducting him in the cabinet in 2016.

The 72-year-old Minister's health had on Sunday suffered a significant deterioration in vital functions.

The hospital had said on Monday that the Minister was being treated for severe COVID pneumonia and its complications.

A CT scan had showed 90 per cent lung involvement vis- a-vis the infection and he was put on ECMO (extracorporeal membrane oxygenation) and ventilator.

On October 13, the minister experienced unease when he was on his way to attend the funeral of Davusayammal, Chief Minister K Palaniswami's mother, who had died at the age of 93 at Salem.

Doraikkannu, who was travelling in his car, was rushed to the government medical college hospital in Villupuram and from there was shifted to Kauvery hospital the same day.

Tamil Nadu Agriculture Minister R Doraikannu, who was battling Covid-19, has died, the hospital treating him said on Sunday. The 72 year-old minister breathed his last late on Saturday night, Kauvery Hospital Executive Director Dr Aravdindan Selvaraj said in a medical bulletin.

Tamil Nadu Agriculture Minister R Doraikannu, who was battling Covid-19, has died, the hospital treating him said on Sunday. The 72 year-old minister breathed his last late on Saturday night, Kauvery Hospital Executive Director Dr Aravdindan Selvaraj said in a medical bulletin. "With deep grief, we announce the sad demise of Honourable Minister for Agriculture R Doraikannu," on Saturday at 11.15 pm, he said. "Our thoughts and prayers are with the grieving family during this difficult period," he added. Tamil Nadu Governor Banwarilal Purohit condoled the death of Daoraikannu and said he was saddened to know about the demise of the Minister. Doraikkannu "was known for his simplicity, humbleness, straightforwardness, governance skills and commitment towards the welfare of farming community..." "He handled Ministry of Agriculture with full dedication and engraved his strong mark. His untimely demise is an irreparable loss to the people of Tamil Nadu and particularly to the AIADMK party," he said in his condolence message. Purohit conveyed his deep condolences to the bereaved members of the family and said he prayed to the Almighty God to rest his soul in peace. Doraikkannu was elected to the Tamil Nadu Assembly from Papanasam in Thanjavur district in 2006, 2011 and 2016, with the late chief minister J Jayalalithaa inducting him in the cabinet in 2016. The 72-year-old Minister's health had on Sunday suffered a significant deterioration in vital functions. The hospital had said on Monday that the Minister was being treated for severe COVID pneumonia and its complications. A CT scan had showed 90 per cent lung involvement vis- a-vis the infection and he was put on ECMO (extracorporeal membrane oxygenation) and ventilator. On October 13, the minister experienced unease when he was on his way to attend the funeral of Davusayammal, Chief Minister K Palaniswami's mother, who had died at the age of 93 at Salem. Doraikkannu, who was travelling in his car, was rushed to the government medical college hospital in Villupuram and from there was shifted to Kauvery hospital the same day.

Tamil Nadu Agriculture Minister R Doraikannu dies due to COVID-19

Twenty-seven Naxalites, five of them carrying cash rewards on their heads, surrendered in Dantewada district of Chhattisgarh on Sunday, saying they were impressed by the police's rehabilitation drive and disappointed with the Maoist ideology, an official said.

The district police's campaign named 'Lon Varratu' (return to your home/village), launched in June this year for the rehabilitation of Naxalites, is yielding positive results as 177 ultras have so far surrendered under it, he said.

"In the latest case, altogether 27 cadres, including six women, turned themselves in before senior police and CRPF officials at Barsoor police station in the district," Dantewada Superintendent of Police Abhishek Pallava told PTI.

Of them, 11 cadres are natives of Gufa village, seven from Bedma, five from Mangnar, three from Hitawada and one from Handwada, he said without disclosing their identity citing security reasons.

These ultras were active as members of Dandakaranya Adivasi Kisan Mazdoor Sangthan (DAKMS), Krantikari Mahila Adivasi Sangthan (KAMS)- frontal wings of Maoists, Chetna Natya Mandli (CNM-cultural offshoot of Maoists) and jan- militia groups, Pallava said.

"All of them were allegedly involved in attacks on police teams, triggering IED blasts and putting up Maoist posters and banners.

Five of them carried rewards of Rs 1 lakh each on their heads," he said.

In their statement they said, they were disappointed with the "hollow" Maoist ideology.

They also said that the recent surrender by their colleagues as a part of 'Lon Varratu campaign of local police also encouraged them to quit violence, he said.

Each of them was given immediate assistance of Rs 10,000 and will be provided facilities further as per the government's surrender and rehabilitation policy, Pallava added.

Under the 'Lon Varratu' (term coined in local Gondi dialect) initiative, Dantewada police have put posters and banners in the native villages of at least 1,600 Naxalites, mostly carrying cash rewards on their heads, and appealed them to return to the mainstream.

Twenty-seven Naxalites, five of them carrying cash rewards on their heads, surrendered in Dantewada district of Chhattisgarh on Sunday, saying they were impressed by the police's rehabilitation drive and disappointed with the Maoist ideology, an official said.

Twenty-seven Naxalites, five of them carrying cash rewards on their heads, surrendered in Dantewada district of Chhattisgarh on Sunday, saying they were impressed by the police's rehabilitation drive and disappointed with the Maoist ideology, an official said. The district police's campaign named 'Lon Varratu' (return to your home/village), launched in June this year for the rehabilitation of Naxalites, is yielding positive results as 177 ultras have so far surrendered under it, he said. "In the latest case, altogether 27 cadres, including six women, turned themselves in before senior police and CRPF officials at Barsoor police station in the district," Dantewada Superintendent of Police Abhishek Pallava told PTI. Of them, 11 cadres are natives of Gufa village, seven from Bedma, five from Mangnar, three from Hitawada and one from Handwada, he said without disclosing their identity citing security reasons. These ultras were active as members of Dandakaranya Adivasi Kisan Mazdoor Sangthan (DAKMS), Krantikari Mahila Adivasi Sangthan (KAMS)- frontal wings of Maoists, Chetna Natya Mandli (CNM-cultural offshoot of Maoists) and jan- militia groups, Pallava said. "All of them were allegedly involved in attacks on police teams, triggering IED blasts and putting up Maoist posters and banners. Five of them carried rewards of Rs 1 lakh each on their heads," he said. In their statement they said, they were disappointed with the "hollow" Maoist ideology. They also said that the recent surrender by their colleagues as a part of 'Lon Varratu campaign of local police also encouraged them to quit violence, he said. Each of them was given immediate assistance of Rs 10,000 and will be provided facilities further as per the government's surrender and rehabilitation policy, Pallava added. Under the 'Lon Varratu' (term coined in local Gondi dialect) initiative, Dantewada police have put posters and banners in the native villages of at least 1,600 Naxalites, mostly carrying cash rewards on their heads, and appealed them to return to the mainstream.

27 Naxalites surrender in Chhattisgarh's Dantewada

Chief operational commander of terrorist group Hizbul Mujahideen, Saifullah has been killed during an encounter with police and security forces at Rangreth in Jammu and Kashmir`s Srinagar district on Sunday, officials said.

“This is a huge success for the police and security forces. This is not a small achievement,” Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kashmir, Vijay Kumar told reporters at the encounter site.

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Dr Saifullah who was number one commander of Hizbul Mujahideen has been killed in the encounter. It was a very successful operation: Jammu and Kashmir DGP Dilbag Singh <a href="https://t.co/a6ycuuyXdh">https://t.co/a6ycuuyXdh</a> <a href="https://t.co/6BX3yCvHSE">pic.twitter.com/6BX3yCvHSE</a>
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Recounting the events of the morning, an official said security forces launched a cordon and search operation in Rangreth area near the old airfield following specific information about the presence of militants there. As the forces were conducting searches in the area, the militants fired. The forces retaliated, resulting in the encounter.

Saifullah had taken over as the chief of Hizbul Mujahideen after the killing of Riyaz Naikoo in May. A top police officer said the operation was based on hard intelligence generated by the police.

“So the security forces cordoned off the area and an operation was launched. In the exchange of firing, one militant was killed. According to our source, we are 95 per cent sure he is Dr Saifullah. We are retrieving the body and it will be identified,” Kumar added.

Kumar said the network of J-K Police has become stronger and police get information about any militant entering the city.

Asked whether any other militant was apprehended alive from the encounter site, he said a suspect has been taken into custody and is being questioned.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Chief operational commander of terrorist group Hizbul Mujahideen, Saifullah has been killed during an encounter with police and security forces at Rangreth in Jammu and Kashmir`s Srinagar district on Sunday, officials said. “This is a huge success for the police and security forces. This is not a small achievement,” Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kashmir, Vijay Kumar told reporters at the encounter site. Dr Saifullah who was number one commander of Hizbul Mujahideen has been killed in the encounter. It was a very successful operation: Jammu and Kashmir DGP Dilbag Singh https://t.co/a6ycuuyXdh pic.twitter.com/6BX3yCvHSE — ANI (@ANI) November 1, 2020 × Recounting the events of the morning, an official said security forces launched a cordon and search operation in Rangreth area near the old airfield following specific information about the presence of militants there. As the forces were conducting searches in the area, the militants fired. The forces retaliated, resulting in the encounter. Saifullah had taken over as the chief of Hizbul Mujahideen after the killing of Riyaz Naikoo in May. A top police officer said the operation was based on hard intelligence generated by the police. “So the security forces cordoned off the area and an operation was launched. In the exchange of firing, one militant was killed. According to our source, we are 95 per cent sure he is Dr Saifullah. We are retrieving the body and it will be identified,” Kumar added. Kumar said the network of J-K Police has become stronger and police get information about any militant entering the city. Asked whether any other militant was apprehended alive from the encounter site, he said a suspect has been taken into custody and is being questioned. (With inputs from agencies)

Huge success for security forces, Hizbul Muhajideen chief Saifullah killed in encounter

Concerned over the deteriorating political discourse in the country, senior BJP leader and Union Minister Rajnath Singh has said elections shouldn't be fought and won by spreading hatred among people and there should be no place for "bitterness and acidic remarks" in a healthy democracy.

He also expressed confidence that the NDA will win the Bihar elections and asserted that the exit of the Chirag Paswan-led LJP won't impact the poll prospects of the ruling alliance. Singh also rejected allegations of any hidden understanding with Paswan''s party, saying the BJP believes in fair politics and doesn't play with the trust of the people.

“Chirag and his party would have their own reasons for leaving the alliance. But I don’t think LJP would have any impact on the ruling BJP-JD(U) alliance in Bihar assembly polls. Our alliance will win the elections and form the next government in the state,” he said.

When pointed out that Paswan in his election campaign was only attacking Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and not the BJP, Singh said, “Personal animosity is not good for healthy politics. It should be avoided and I myself also don’t practice such politics.”

The former BJP president also termed as baseless the allegations of a hidden understanding between the BJP and the LJP. “BJP believes in fair politics and doesn’t play with the trust of the people,” he said. &nbsp;

Expressing concern over hate speeches and personal remarks being made against each other by leaders of all political parties, Singh said there is no place for hatred in healthy politics and elections should not be contested and won by spreading hatred among people. “I myself never resorted to such tactics,” he said. &nbsp;

“Bitterness, acidic remarks and personal attacks against each other in speeches should be avoided. It is not good for a healthy democracy. Rather, there should be discussion, debates and even arguments on issues of public interest,” he said.

Singh, who has addressed more than a dozen political rallies in Bihar and is scheduled to address many rallies in the coming days, said the response he witnessed in his public meetings is highly indicative that the BJP-JD(U) alliance will win the elections in the state. &nbsp;

“The alliance, in the Bihar assembly polls, will reap the benefits of effective implementation of the Central government’s welfare schemes. At the same time, the state government under Nitish Kumar has also performed well and the people will vote for it,” he said.

Singh, the seniormost minister in the central government, said the Modi dispensation “ended the crisis of credibility” in politics. &nbsp;

“Modi government delivered on its promises and its track record establishes that. On the other hand, the opposition, whether in Bihar or at the national level, lacks credibility as it always failed to fulfil its commitments,” he said.

On Tejaswi Yadav’s rallies attracting huge crowds, Singh said the rallies of BJP leaders are also being attended by people in large numbers. &nbsp;

“You yourself saw attendance in my rallies and you must have seen the massive crowds in Prime Minister Modi’s rallies. Public meetings organised by BJP are attracting huge crowds. It will be unfair to exaggerate about public meetings of one party and its leaders,” he said. &nbsp;

Asked if the NDA was shrinking as some of its oldest constituents have left the ruling alliance, Singh said the alliance is still a “big united family”.

Without naming any party, Singh said, “Those who left NDA moved out of the alliance for their respective reasons. In politics you never know when anyone can become your ally”. &nbsp;

On whether the NDA’s doors were still open for its erstwhile allies, he said, “The NDA’s doors are always open for those who want to contribute in the development of India. But we cannot compromise on our development agenda and the core issues of our ideology”.

Singh has twice been the BJP president and the party contested two Lok Sabha elections — in 2009 and in 2014 — when he was at the helm.

Currently the Union Defence Minister, Singh was Home Minister in the previous NDA government.

Concerned over the deteriorating political discourse in the country, senior BJP leader and Union Minister Rajnath Singh has said elections shouldn't be fought and won by spreading hatred among people and there should be no place for "bitterness and acidic remarks" in a healthy democracy.

Concerned over the deteriorating political discourse in the country, senior BJP leader and Union Minister Rajnath Singh has said elections shouldn't be fought and won by spreading hatred among people and there should be no place for "bitterness and acidic remarks" in a healthy democracy. He also expressed confidence that the NDA will win the Bihar elections and asserted that the exit of the Chirag Paswan-led LJP won't impact the poll prospects of the ruling alliance. Singh also rejected allegations of any hidden understanding with Paswan''s party, saying the BJP believes in fair politics and doesn't play with the trust of the people. “Chirag and his party would have their own reasons for leaving the alliance. But I don’t think LJP would have any impact on the ruling BJP-JD(U) alliance in Bihar assembly polls. Our alliance will win the elections and form the next government in the state,” he said. When pointed out that Paswan in his election campaign was only attacking Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and not the BJP, Singh said, “Personal animosity is not good for healthy politics. It should be avoided and I myself also don’t practice such politics.” The former BJP president also termed as baseless the allegations of a hidden understanding between the BJP and the LJP. “BJP believes in fair politics and doesn’t play with the trust of the people,” he said. Expressing concern over hate speeches and personal remarks being made against each other by leaders of all political parties, Singh said there is no place for hatred in healthy politics and elections should not be contested and won by spreading hatred among people. “I myself never resorted to such tactics,” he said. “Bitterness, acidic remarks and personal attacks against each other in speeches should be avoided. It is not good for a healthy democracy. Rather, there should be discussion, debates and even arguments on issues of public interest,” he said. Singh, who has addressed more than a dozen political rallies in Bihar and is scheduled to address many rallies in the coming days, said the response he witnessed in his public meetings is highly indicative that the BJP-JD(U) alliance will win the elections in the state. “The alliance, in the Bihar assembly polls, will reap the benefits of effective implementation of the Central government’s welfare schemes. At the same time, the state government under Nitish Kumar has also performed well and the people will vote for it,” he said. Singh, the seniormost minister in the central government, said the Modi dispensation “ended the crisis of credibility” in politics. “Modi government delivered on its promises and its track record establishes that. On the other hand, the opposition, whether in Bihar or at the national level, lacks credibility as it always failed to fulfil its commitments,” he said. On Tejaswi Yadav’s rallies attracting huge crowds, Singh said the rallies of BJP leaders are also being attended by people in large numbers. “You yourself saw attendance in my rallies and you must have seen the massive crowds in Prime Minister Modi’s rallies. Public meetings organised by BJP are attracting huge crowds. It will be unfair to exaggerate about public meetings of one party and its leaders,” he said. Asked if the NDA was shrinking as some of its oldest constituents have left the ruling alliance, Singh said the alliance is still a “big united family”. Without naming any party, Singh said, “Those who left NDA moved out of the alliance for their respective reasons. In politics you never know when anyone can become your ally”. On whether the NDA’s doors were still open for its erstwhile allies, he said, “The NDA’s doors are always open for those who want to contribute in the development of India. But we cannot compromise on our development agenda and the core issues of our ideology”. Singh has twice been the BJP president and the party contested two Lok Sabha elections — in 2009 and in 2014 — when he was at the helm. Currently the Union Defence Minister, Singh was Home Minister in the previous NDA government.

Hate speeches, personal remarks by leaders not good for a healthy democracy: Rajnath Singh

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