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The Counsel General of China to Karachi says "do you know what will be the aftermath of playing with fire?", the statement is in response to an article that called on the Indian government to embrace the Quad.

A Chinese diplomat sitting in Karachi is threatening India against joining the Quad, sitting in Karachi, he seems to have forgotten that India isn’t Pakistan, not bound to do China’s bidding and clearly the prospect of an 'Asian NATO'&nbsp;has rattled China as major dailies of the Communist Party have raised it and the not so major ones, like the Global Times, have a lot to say about India, America and the anti-China alliance but few take the sabre-rattling of the Global Times seriously because it ranks quite low in the Communist Party hierarchy.

China Daily is owned by the publicity department of the Communist Party. &nbsp;

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On the India-US alignment, it says: "Border skirmishes with China may prompt India to draw closer to the US side so as to gain more leverage in its negotiations with China but, blindly following the US lead will only push it closer to a head-on conflict with China, which would not be in its interests."

The Chinese military later re-published the piece. Beijing has been leveraging every medium for its propaganda. The wire service of the Chinese state Xinhua has also weighed in. Their piece is about the upcoming Malabar exercise and India's invitation to Australia.

Xinhua says, "Quad members need to realize that attempting to stir up rivalry in the region goes against the trend of the times and will definitely not be accepted by major countries worldwide."

The Chinese press is living in a bubble of its own. A Reuters report talks about the alliances that are taking shape in Asia. It says that several Asian countries are now building an alliance among themselves informally.

China claims that America and its so-called "cold war mentality" is the driving force behind anti-china alliances in Asia but Reuters reports that Asian countries are joining hands without American support. The piece goes on to talk about how the Australian prime minister inaugurated the Shangri-la dialogue - an inter-governmental security forum that is attended by defence ministers, heads of ministries and military chiefs of more than 20 Asia-pacific states.

Mike Pompeo's Asia tour has made Beijing more worried after India, the US. secretary of state Mike Pompeo will be visiting Sri Lanka and the Maldives. It is a visit which would highlight how China bullies smaller countries with its debt traps. So even before Pompeo kicked off his Asia trip, China accused America of meddling in Sri Lanka.

"The US official's remarks are brimming with cold war mentality and hegemony, which fully expose their usual practice of interfering in other countries' internal affairs by bullying small and medium-sized countries into picking sides," Zhao Lijian, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman said.

"China believes that all counties, big or small, have the right to independently develop their foreign relations based on their own interests. any attempts to use pressure and coercion to obstruct normal cooperation and exchanges between countries will not succeed. in the end, they will become the scorn of history, the laughing stock of the international community," Lijian added.

An official of the US state department had said that Sri Lanka must make "tough choices" to ensure its economic independence over the long term. In Colombo, Pompeo is expected to make an appeal to the Rajapaksas for greater engagement with America and its allies - a shift like that will only give the anti-china alliance more power.

The Counsel General of China to Karachi says "do you know what will be the aftermath of playing with fire?", the statement is in response to an article that called on the Indian government to embrace the Quad.

The Counsel General of China to Karachi says "do you know what will be the aftermath of playing with fire?", the statement is in response to an article that called on the Indian government to embrace the Quad. A Chinese diplomat sitting in Karachi is threatening India against joining the Quad, sitting in Karachi, he seems to have forgotten that India isn’t Pakistan, not bound to do China’s bidding and clearly the prospect of an 'Asian NATO' has rattled China as major dailies of the Communist Party have raised it and the not so major ones, like the Global Times, have a lot to say about India, America and the anti-China alliance but few take the sabre-rattling of the Global Times seriously because it ranks quite low in the Communist Party hierarchy. China Daily is owned by the publicity department of the Communist Party. On the India-US alignment, it says: "Border skirmishes with China may prompt India to draw closer to the US side so as to gain more leverage in its negotiations with China but, blindly following the US lead will only push it closer to a head-on conflict with China, which would not be in its interests." The Chinese military later re-published the piece. Beijing has been leveraging every medium for its propaganda. The wire service of the Chinese state Xinhua has also weighed in. Their piece is about the upcoming Malabar exercise and India's invitation to Australia. Xinhua says, "Quad members need to realize that attempting to stir up rivalry in the region goes against the trend of the times and will definitely not be accepted by major countries worldwide." The Chinese press is living in a bubble of its own. A Reuters report talks about the alliances that are taking shape in Asia. It says that several Asian countries are now building an alliance among themselves informally. China claims that America and its so-called "cold war mentality" is the driving force behind anti-china alliances in Asia but Reuters reports that Asian countries are joining hands without American support. The piece goes on to talk about how the Australian prime minister inaugurated the Shangri-la dialogue - an inter-governmental security forum that is attended by defence ministers, heads of ministries and military chiefs of more than 20 Asia-pacific states. Mike Pompeo's Asia tour has made Beijing more worried after India, the US. secretary of state Mike Pompeo will be visiting Sri Lanka and the Maldives. It is a visit which would highlight how China bullies smaller countries with its debt traps. So even before Pompeo kicked off his Asia trip, China accused America of meddling in Sri Lanka. "The US official's remarks are brimming with cold war mentality and hegemony, which fully expose their usual practice of interfering in other countries' internal affairs by bullying small and medium-sized countries into picking sides," Zhao Lijian, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman said. "China believes that all counties, big or small, have the right to independently develop their foreign relations based on their own interests. any attempts to use pressure and coercion to obstruct normal cooperation and exchanges between countries will not succeed. in the end, they will become the scorn of history, the laughing stock of the international community," Lijian added. An official of the US state department had said that Sri Lanka must make "tough choices" to ensure its economic independence over the long term. In Colombo, Pompeo is expected to make an appeal to the Rajapaksas for greater engagement with America and its allies - a shift like that will only give the anti-china alliance more power.

Quad effect: 'Asian NATO' rattles China as local press propaganda goes in high gear

India and the United States Tuesday signed a military agreement on sharing of satellite data during the current visit by US Defence Secretary Mark Esper.

The Basic Exchange and Cooperation Agreement on Geospatial Cooperation (BECA) will allow India access to topographical, nautical and aeronautical data for better accuracy of weapons like missiles and drones.

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Esper and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo landed in New Delhi for a top-level security dialogue on Monday, seen as part of efforts to counter China’s growing assertiveness in the region.

The impact will be immediate. India and the US will share high-end satellite images, telephone intercepts, and data on Chinese troops and their weapons deployment.&nbsp;

On Tuesday, National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval was seen giving an elbow bump to Pompeo.

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Later, the American leaders met with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi as well.

At the press conference, the target was China. The Indian side was measured in its response.

They didn't name China, but spoke about freedom of navigation and respect for territorial integrity.

The American leadership, however, didn't hesitate in taking China on.

Esper blamed China for destablising the region. Pompeo didn't hold back any punches. He referred to how the pandemic originated in Wuhan, and the threat the Communist Party poses to democratic values.

"This morning we visited the national war memorial to honour the brave men and women of the armed forces who have sacrificed for the world’s largest democracy, including 20 that were killed by the PLA (People’s Liberation Army) forces in the Galwan valley in June. The United States will stand with the people of india as they confront threats to their sovereignty and to their liberty." Pompeo said.

He added, "The challenge of defeating the pandemic which came from wuhan also fed into our robust discussions about the Chinese Communist Party. Our leaders and our citizens see with increasing clarity that the CCP is no friend to democracy, the rule of law, transparency, nor to freedom of navigation -- the foundation of an open and prosperous Indo-Pacific. I’m glad to say that the United States and India are taking steps to strengthen our cooperation against all manners of threats, and not just those posed by the chinese communist party."

The US presidential election is less than a week away. And for the topmost officials of the Trump administration to undertake this visit at such a time shows how seriously they take this issue.

They are building alliances with not just India but with many players.&nbsp;

The mission is to make China pay.

India and the United States Tuesday signed a military agreement on sharing of satellite data during the current visit by US Defence Secretary Mark Esper. The Basic Exchange and Cooperation Agreement on Geospatial Cooperation (BECA) will allow India access to topographical, nautical and aeronautical data for better accuracy of weapons like missiles and drones.

India and the United States Tuesday signed a military agreement on sharing of satellite data during the current visit by US Defence Secretary Mark Esper. The Basic Exchange and Cooperation Agreement on Geospatial Cooperation (BECA) will allow India access to topographical, nautical and aeronautical data for better accuracy of weapons like missiles and drones. Esper and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo landed in New Delhi for a top-level security dialogue on Monday, seen as part of efforts to counter China’s growing assertiveness in the region. The impact will be immediate. India and the US will share high-end satellite images, telephone intercepts, and data on Chinese troops and their weapons deployment. On Tuesday, National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval was seen giving an elbow bump to Pompeo. Later, the American leaders met with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi as well. At the press conference, the target was China. The Indian side was measured in its response. They didn't name China, but spoke about freedom of navigation and respect for territorial integrity. The American leadership, however, didn't hesitate in taking China on. Esper blamed China for destablising the region. Pompeo didn't hold back any punches. He referred to how the pandemic originated in Wuhan, and the threat the Communist Party poses to democratic values. "This morning we visited the national war memorial to honour the brave men and women of the armed forces who have sacrificed for the world’s largest democracy, including 20 that were killed by the PLA (People’s Liberation Army) forces in the Galwan valley in June. The United States will stand with the people of india as they confront threats to their sovereignty and to their liberty." Pompeo said. He added, "The challenge of defeating the pandemic which came from wuhan also fed into our robust discussions about the Chinese Communist Party. Our leaders and our citizens see with increasing clarity that the CCP is no friend to democracy, the rule of law, transparency, nor to freedom of navigation -- the foundation of an open and prosperous Indo-Pacific. I’m glad to say that the United States and India are taking steps to strengthen our cooperation against all manners of threats, and not just those posed by the chinese communist party." The US presidential election is less than a week away. And for the topmost officials of the Trump administration to undertake this visit at such a time shows how seriously they take this issue. They are building alliances with not just India but with many players. The mission is to make China pay.

India signs military agreement with US on sharing of satellite data

Voting has begun on Wednesday morning in 71 assembly constituencies of Bihar in the first phase of three-phase elections amid tight security and COVID-19 guidelines in place.

Taking into consideration the safety of voters in view of the coronavirus pandemic, the timing of polling has been extended by one hour. Voters will be able to exercise their franchise from 7 am to 6 pm.

Of the nearly 2.15 crore electors eligible to exercise the franchise, 1.12 crore are male, 1.01 crore female and 599 are categorised as the third gender, according to data provided by the Election Commission.

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Bihar: First phase polling of Bihar Assembly elections underway, following <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> norms. 
 
Visuals of voters queuing up outside booth number 43 in Paliganj and undergoing temperature check. <a href="https://t.co/EDMDKDZITp">pic.twitter.com/EDMDKDZITp</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1321289019528011777?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 28, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Guidelines have been issued by the Commission for the safe conduct of the electoral exercise in the midst of the raging COVID-19 pandemic.

These guidelines include lowering the maximum number of voters for a polling booth from 1,600 to 1,000, staggering of polling hours and extending postal ballot facility for those above 80.

Besides, sanitisation of electronic voting machines, wearing of masks and other protective gear by polling personnel and the availability of thermal scanner, hand sanitiser, soap and water has also to be ensured at polling stations.

The candidates in the fray in the first phase include 952 men and 114 women.

As many as 33 of the constituencies going to polls in the first phase have been declared as ‘sensitive or hypersensitive’ Constituencies, the poll panel said.

It said 31,371 polling stations have been set up in this phase and as many Electronic Voting Machines and Voter-Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) machines will be used.

(With inputs from agencies)

Voting has begun on Wednesday morning in 71 assembly constituencies of Bihar in the first phase of three-phase elections amid tight security and COVID-19 guidelines in place.

Voting has begun on Wednesday morning in 71 assembly constituencies of Bihar in the first phase of three-phase elections amid tight security and COVID-19 guidelines in place. Taking into consideration the safety of voters in view of the coronavirus pandemic, the timing of polling has been extended by one hour. Voters will be able to exercise their franchise from 7 am to 6 pm. Of the nearly 2.15 crore electors eligible to exercise the franchise, 1.12 crore are male, 1.01 crore female and 599 are categorised as the third gender, according to data provided by the Election Commission. Bihar: First phase polling of Bihar Assembly elections underway, following #COVID19 norms. Visuals of voters queuing up outside booth number 43 in Paliganj and undergoing temperature check. pic.twitter.com/EDMDKDZITp — ANI (@ANI) October 28, 2020 × Guidelines have been issued by the Commission for the safe conduct of the electoral exercise in the midst of the raging COVID-19 pandemic. These guidelines include lowering the maximum number of voters for a polling booth from 1,600 to 1,000, staggering of polling hours and extending postal ballot facility for those above 80. Besides, sanitisation of electronic voting machines, wearing of masks and other protective gear by polling personnel and the availability of thermal scanner, hand sanitiser, soap and water has also to be ensured at polling stations. The candidates in the fray in the first phase include 952 men and 114 women. As many as 33 of the constituencies going to polls in the first phase have been declared as ‘sensitive or hypersensitive’ Constituencies, the poll panel said. It said 31,371 polling stations have been set up in this phase and as many Electronic Voting Machines and Voter-Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) machines will be used. (With inputs from agencies)

Bihar Elections 2020: Voting begins for phase 1 polling across 71 seats

India and five central Asian countries - Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan and the Kyrgyz Republic have vowed to increase engagement on several areas with connectivity being the top focus area.

India and five central Asian countries - Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan and the Kyrgyz Republic have vowed to increase engagement on several areas with connectivity being the top focus area. The foreign minister of these all these countries met virtually, along with the Afghan foreign minister who was a special invite at the meet. In his opening statement, India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar highlighted the "commonality of views on various regional and international issues" and since "we face common challenges of terrorism, extremism, drug trafficking and such other issues. All these commonalities make us a natural partner in our developmental journey." During the meet, India announced $ 1 billion Line of Credit for "priority developmental projects" in Central Asian countries in the fields of connectivity, energy, IT, healthcare, education, agriculture and offered to provide grant assistance for implementation of High Impact Community Development Projects (HICDP) for furthering socio-economic development. A joint statement after the meet said, "the ministers expressed their continued interest in further developing the transit and transport potential of their countries, improving the logistics network of the region and promoting joint initiatives to create regional and international transport corridors." The ministers of the Central Asian countries "appreciated" India’s efforts to modernize the infrastructure of the Chabahar port in Iran which the joint statement said, "could become an important link in trade and transport communications between the markets of Central and South Asia." New Delhi is keen to increase connectivity to the region via Chabahar port and is even planning on an air corridor. It already has an air corridor with Afghanistan bringing goods from Kabul and other parts to cities like Delhi and Mumbai. On the issue of terrorism, the joint statement, without mentioning Pakistan said, "strongly condemn terrorism in all its forms and manifestations" and reaffirmed the "determination of their countries to combat this menace by destroying terrorist safe-havens, networks, infrastructure and funding channels." Adding further, the ministers "underlined the need for every country to ensure that its territory is not used to launch terrorist attacks against other countries." This is the second such meet of the India-Central Asian countries foreign ministers. The first such meeting, which was a physical one had taken place in Uzbekistan's Samarkand in 2019 and aimed to become a platform to increase and strengthen New Delhi's ties with the region which it sees as its "extended neighbourhood". On Afghanistan, the joint statement called for the "settlement of the Afghan conflict on the principle of Afghan-led, Afghan-owned and Afghan-controlled peace process." and emphasized on "preserving the socio-economic development and political gains made by Afghanistan in the last 19 years." Three Central Asian countries--Tajikistan, Uzbekistan Turkmenistan share a land border with Afghanistan and that is why stability in the country is something all of them are keen on.

India and five Central Asian countries vow to increase engagement; New Delhi announces $1 billion line of credit

A young engineer in Kashmir valley is trying to re-engineer pottery by giving it a modern look to restart the halted wheels of traditional potters. Saima Shafi is a civil engineer by the day and a potter by the evening. At her small studio in Srinagar, she tries to make kitchen items out of clay to raise awareness among the traditional potters of the valley.&nbsp;

She feels potters have been looked down upon over the years and with time many have left the profession owing to the modern kitchen culture and limited sales. Perusing her passion after completing her engineering and with a government job in hand, Saima went to Bengaluru, the capital of the Indian state of Karnataka chasing her love for pottery.&nbsp;

"Through online platform and media, I'm trying to let traditional potters know that there are modern techniques to pottery which we can have at the international and national level. This sector will have an economic boom by these methods," says Saima Shafi.

Now, she regularly meeting traditional potters to teach them new techniques, make them familiar with modern tools, and bring a sense of pride in them for their art. For years, authors have written the obituary of pottery in Kashmir but if this goes right for her, she may very well prove them wrong.&nbsp;

Her products include modern unearth pots, cups, plates, and other decorative items. Saima likes to call herself a 'Kralkoor,' meaning 'potter girl' rather than an engineer. She now wishes to increase the income of potters to give them a decent living.&nbsp;

A young engineer in Kashmir valley is trying to re-engineer pottery by giving it a modern look to restart the halted wheels of traditional potters. Saima Shafi is a civil engineer by the day and a potter by the evening.

A young engineer in Kashmir valley is trying to re-engineer pottery by giving it a modern look to restart the halted wheels of traditional potters. Saima Shafi is a civil engineer by the day and a potter by the evening. At her small studio in Srinagar, she tries to make kitchen items out of clay to raise awareness among the traditional potters of the valley. She feels potters have been looked down upon over the years and with time many have left the profession owing to the modern kitchen culture and limited sales. Perusing her passion after completing her engineering and with a government job in hand, Saima went to Bengaluru, the capital of the Indian state of Karnataka chasing her love for pottery. "Through online platform and media, I'm trying to let traditional potters know that there are modern techniques to pottery which we can have at the international and national level. This sector will have an economic boom by these methods," says Saima Shafi. Now, she regularly meeting traditional potters to teach them new techniques, make them familiar with modern tools, and bring a sense of pride in them for their art. For years, authors have written the obituary of pottery in Kashmir but if this goes right for her, she may very well prove them wrong. Her products include modern unearth pots, cups, plates, and other decorative items. Saima likes to call herself a 'Kralkoor,' meaning 'potter girl' rather than an engineer. She now wishes to increase the income of potters to give them a decent living.

Engineer-turned-potter tries to re-engineer pottery in Kashmir

Union minister Smriti Irani on Wednesday said she has tested positive for COVID-19. She asked people who came in contact with her to get themselves tested at the earliest. 
 
"It is rare for me to search for words while making an announcement; hence here's me keeping it simple ? I've tested positive for #COVID and would request those who came in contact with me to get themselves tested at the earliest," Irani tweeted.

(More details awaited)

Union minister Smriti Irani on Wednesday said she has tested positive for COVID-19. She asked people who came in contact with her to get themselves tested at the earliest.

Union minister Smriti Irani on Wednesday said she has tested positive for COVID-19. She asked people who came in contact with her to get themselves tested at the earliest. "It is rare for me to search for words while making an announcement; hence here's me keeping it simple ? I've tested positive for #COVID and would request those who came in contact with me to get themselves tested at the earliest," Irani tweeted. (More details awaited)

India: Union Minister Smriti Irani tests positive for COVID-19

Drugmaker Dr Reddy's Laboratories Ltd on Wednesday rolled out a preliminary timeline for the India trials of Russia's coronavirus vaccine candidate, with the late-stage expected to be completed by as early as March 2021.

Chief Executive Officer Erez Israeli said enrolment to the mid-stage trial of the Sputnik-V vaccine will start in the next few weeks and the trial was likely to end by December.

"(Phase 3 trial) can be over as fast as the end of March, but it could go into April or May," Israeli said on a post-earnings press briefing, adding the timeline will depend on the Phase 2 trial results and further approvals from authorities.

With 8 million COVID-19 infections and second only to the United States, India is pinning its hopes on a vaccine to stem the spread of the pandemic.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/india-news/russias-sputnik-v-vaccine-against-covid-19-will-be-tested-on-100-indian-volunteers-337375" hreflang="en">Russia's Sputnik V vaccine against COVID-19 will be tested on 100 Indian volunteers</a>

The ongoing festive season and a state assembly election are seen by healthcare experts as adding to the challenges in containing the outbreak.

The Hyderabad-based company had received renewed approval for late-stage clinical trials in India of the Sputnik-V vaccine earlier this month, after initially signing a deal with the Russian Direct Investment Fund in September.

The company expects to enrol 100 participants for the mid-stage trial and 1,500 people for the late-stage.

Shares of the company closed 2.9% lower at 4,951 rupees in a weak Mumbai market after Dr Reddy's reported a 30.3% fall in consolidated net profit after tax from a year earlier. Net sales, however, jumped to 47.77 billion rupees from 39.98 billion rupees a year ago.

The drugmaker, which last week isolated all its data centre services as a preventive measure following a cyberattack, said it was a ransomware attack, but was yet to ascertain if any personal information was accessed.

Drugmaker Dr Reddy's Laboratories Ltd on Wednesday rolled out a preliminary timeline for the India trials of Russia's coronavirus vaccine candidate, with the late-stage expected to be completed by as early as March 2021.

Drugmaker Dr Reddy's Laboratories Ltd on Wednesday rolled out a preliminary timeline for the India trials of Russia's coronavirus vaccine candidate, with the late-stage expected to be completed by as early as March 2021. Chief Executive Officer Erez Israeli said enrolment to the mid-stage trial of the Sputnik-V vaccine will start in the next few weeks and the trial was likely to end by December. "(Phase 3 trial) can be over as fast as the end of March, but it could go into April or May," Israeli said on a post-earnings press briefing, adding the timeline will depend on the Phase 2 trial results and further approvals from authorities. With 8 million COVID-19 infections and second only to the United States, India is pinning its hopes on a vaccine to stem the spread of the pandemic. Also read: Russia's Sputnik V vaccine against COVID-19 will be tested on 100 Indian volunteers The ongoing festive season and a state assembly election are seen by healthcare experts as adding to the challenges in containing the outbreak. The Hyderabad-based company had received renewed approval for late-stage clinical trials in India of the Sputnik-V vaccine earlier this month, after initially signing a deal with the Russian Direct Investment Fund in September. The company expects to enrol 100 participants for the mid-stage trial and 1,500 people for the late-stage. Shares of the company closed 2.9% lower at 4,951 rupees in a weak Mumbai market after Dr Reddy's reported a 30.3% fall in consolidated net profit after tax from a year earlier. Net sales, however, jumped to 47.77 billion rupees from 39.98 billion rupees a year ago. The drugmaker, which last week isolated all its data centre services as a preventive measure following a cyberattack, said it was a ransomware attack, but was yet to ascertain if any personal information was accessed.

India trials of Russian Sputnik-V vaccine may end as early as March: Dr Reddy's

The Centre on Wednesday extended the suspension of scheduled commercial international flight operations to and from India till November 30. 
 
"This restriction shall not apply to international all-cargo operations and flights specifically approved by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation," an official statement said on Wednesday. 
 
"However, international scheduled flights may be allowed on select routes by the competent authority on a case-to-case basis," it added.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/india-news/supreme-court-orders-refund-of-tickets-of-flights-cancelled-due-to-lockdown-331726" hreflang="en">Supreme Court orders refund of tickets of flights cancelled due to lockdown</a> 
 
At present, India has entered into `Air Bubble` agreements with several countries. It allows nationals of both the countries to travel in either direction. 
 
Passenger air services were suspended on March 25 due to the nationwide lockdown to check the spread of Covid-19. 
 
Domestic flight services have since resumed from May 25.

The Centre on Wednesday extended the suspension of scheduled commercial international flight operations to and from India till November 30. "This restriction shall not apply to international all-cargo operations and flights specifically approved by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation," an official statement said on Wednesday.

The Centre on Wednesday extended the suspension of scheduled commercial international flight operations to and from India till November 30. "This restriction shall not apply to international all-cargo operations and flights specifically approved by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation," an official statement said on Wednesday. "However, international scheduled flights may be allowed on select routes by the competent authority on a case-to-case basis," it added. Also read: Supreme Court orders refund of tickets of flights cancelled due to lockdown At present, India has entered into `Air Bubble` agreements with several countries. It allows nationals of both the countries to travel in either direction. Passenger air services were suspended on March 25 due to the nationwide lockdown to check the spread of Covid-19. Domestic flight services have since resumed from May 25.

India: International flights to remain suspended till November 30

Popular social media platform Twitter’s explanation for showing India’s Union Territory Ladakh as a part of China is "inadequate" for what amounts to a criminal offence, a panel of MPs headed by Meenakshi Lekhi &nbsp;said today after questioning officials of the microblogging site.

Representatives of Twitter appeared before the joint committee of parliament on Data Protection Bill, 2019 and were questioned by the members on showing Ladakh as part of China, Lekhi said.

"The committee was unanimous in its opinion that Twitter's explanation on showing Ladakh as part of China was inadequate," Lekhi said.&nbsp;

However, representatives of Twitter told the panel that the social media company respects the sensitivities of India, she said.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
"It is not a question of sensitivities only, it is a matter of India's sovereignty and integrity, showing Ladakh as part of China amounts to a criminal offence which attracts imprisonment of seven years," Lekhi said.

Officials who deposed before the panel on behalf of Twitter India included Shagufta Kamran, senior manager, public policy, Ayushi Kapoor, legal counsel, Pallavi Walia, policy communications, and Manvinder Bali, corporate security.

Officials from the Ministry of Electronics, Information and Technology, and the Ministry of Law and Justice also deposed before the panel.

(With inputs from agencies)

Popular social media platform Twitter’s explanation for showing India’s Union Territory Ladakh as a part of China is "inadequate" for what amounts to a criminal offence, a panel of MPs headed by Meenakshi Lekhi said today after questioning officials of the microblogging site.

Popular social media platform Twitter’s explanation for showing India’s Union Territory Ladakh as a part of China is "inadequate" for what amounts to a criminal offence, a panel of MPs headed by Meenakshi Lekhi said today after questioning officials of the microblogging site. Representatives of Twitter appeared before the joint committee of parliament on Data Protection Bill, 2019 and were questioned by the members on showing Ladakh as part of China, Lekhi said. "The committee was unanimous in its opinion that Twitter's explanation on showing Ladakh as part of China was inadequate," Lekhi said. However, representatives of Twitter told the panel that the social media company respects the sensitivities of India, she said. "It is not a question of sensitivities only, it is a matter of India's sovereignty and integrity, showing Ladakh as part of China amounts to a criminal offence which attracts imprisonment of seven years," Lekhi said. Officials who deposed before the panel on behalf of Twitter India included Shagufta Kamran, senior manager, public policy, Ayushi Kapoor, legal counsel, Pallavi Walia, policy communications, and Manvinder Bali, corporate security. Officials from the Ministry of Electronics, Information and Technology, and the Ministry of Law and Justice also deposed before the panel. (With inputs from agencies)

Showing Ladakh as part of China amounts to a criminal offence: MP’s Panel of India

Voting is underway in 71 assembly constituencies of Bihar in the first phase of three-phase elections amid tight security and COVID-19 guidelines in place.

The candidates in the fray in the first phase include 952 men and 114 women.

As many as 33 of the constituencies going to polls in the first phase have been declared as 'sensitive or hypersensitive' constituencies, the Election Commission of India said.

Voters waited in queues of over an hour and some even returned home without casting votes as technical snags affected the functioning of over 75 EVMs or VVPATs in Munger, Arwal, Gaya and Nawada districts.&nbsp;

Voters in Gaya, Jahanabad, Aurangabad, Jamui, Bhabhua, Sasaram, Baka, Kaimur also complained of technical and other errors in EVMs. Due to this, polling started late by 30 minutes to 2 hours at several places.

(With inputs from agencies)

Voting is underway in 71 assembly constituencies of Bihar in the first phase of three-phase elections amid tight security and COVID-19 guidelines in place. The candidates in the fray in the first phase include 952 men and 114 women.

Voting is underway in 71 assembly constituencies of Bihar in the first phase of three-phase elections amid tight security and COVID-19 guidelines in place. The candidates in the fray in the first phase include 952 men and 114 women. As many as 33 of the constituencies going to polls in the first phase have been declared as 'sensitive or hypersensitive' constituencies, the Election Commission of India said. Voters waited in queues of over an hour and some even returned home without casting votes as technical snags affected the functioning of over 75 EVMs or VVPATs in Munger, Arwal, Gaya and Nawada districts. Voters in Gaya, Jahanabad, Aurangabad, Jamui, Bhabhua, Sasaram, Baka, Kaimur also complained of technical and other errors in EVMs. Due to this, polling started late by 30 minutes to 2 hours at several places. (With inputs from agencies)

Bihar Election 2020: Technical snag, glitches in 75 EVMs hassle voters in phase 1 polling

Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Tuesday launched SUMANGAL portal to provide cash incentives for promotion of inter-caste marriage.

While inaugurating the Sumangal portal, the Chief Minister said that inter-ethnic marriages increased social unity and it reduced racial discrimination while promoting equality and peaceful coexistence in society.

Rs 2.5 lakh can be availed for beneficiaries within 60 days of applying at the portal. The incentive amount would be deposited in a joint account of the couple in any nationalised bank and they would be able to withdraw the amount only after three years of marriage.

He also launched the Integrated Odisha State Scholarship Portal to help eligible students of the state avail scholarship avail benefits in a seamless and transparent manner.

As per a statement, 21 scholarships would be offered by eight state departments and more than 11 lakh beneficiary students from Scheduled Tribes, Scheduled Castes, Other Backward Classes, and educationally backward classes would benefit from the scholarship portal.

"Only through the use of technology can we provide the public with the best services at the right time with efficiency and transparency. This portal will reduce the distance between government departments and prospective students and they can apply from their homes within a specified time frame," the Chief Minister said at the virtual launch.

"6,00,000 students are benefiting from the program under the Scheduled Tribes and Scheduled Tribes Development Department alone. Odisha is an example for other states today to bring about change through five programs," said Minister for Scheduled Tribes and Scheduled Tribes Development Jagannath Sarka while speaking at the launch.

(With inputs from agencies)

Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Tuesday launched SUMANGAL portal to provide cash incentives for promotion of inter-caste marriage. While inaugurating the Sumangal portal, the Chief Minister said that inter-ethnic marriages increased social unity and it reduced racial discrimination while promoting equality and peaceful coexistence in society.

Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Tuesday launched SUMANGAL portal to provide cash incentives for promotion of inter-caste marriage. While inaugurating the Sumangal portal, the Chief Minister said that inter-ethnic marriages increased social unity and it reduced racial discrimination while promoting equality and peaceful coexistence in society. Rs 2.5 lakh can be availed for beneficiaries within 60 days of applying at the portal. The incentive amount would be deposited in a joint account of the couple in any nationalised bank and they would be able to withdraw the amount only after three years of marriage. He also launched the Integrated Odisha State Scholarship Portal to help eligible students of the state avail scholarship avail benefits in a seamless and transparent manner. As per a statement, 21 scholarships would be offered by eight state departments and more than 11 lakh beneficiary students from Scheduled Tribes, Scheduled Castes, Other Backward Classes, and educationally backward classes would benefit from the scholarship portal. "Only through the use of technology can we provide the public with the best services at the right time with efficiency and transparency. This portal will reduce the distance between government departments and prospective students and they can apply from their homes within a specified time frame," the Chief Minister said at the virtual launch. "6,00,000 students are benefiting from the program under the Scheduled Tribes and Scheduled Tribes Development Department alone. Odisha is an example for other states today to bring about change through five programs," said Minister for Scheduled Tribes and Scheduled Tribes Development Jagannath Sarka while speaking at the launch. (With inputs from agencies)

To promote inter-caste marriages Odisha government launches portal

India is expected to get 3 Rafale jets on November 5th. New Delhi has already got the first batch of 5 Rafales earlier this year amid fanfare. The 5 Rafales were inducted at Ambala airbase on 10th September in the presence of French Defence Minister Florence Parly and Indian defence minister Rajnath Singh. Under the 2016 agreement worth Rs 59000 crores, India will get 36 rafales.&nbsp;

The development comes even as tensions at the Line of actual control between India and China remains. The Chinese build-up at the LAC remains despite a number of rounds of diplomatic and military talks.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, India's Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla is expected to be in France later this week during his European tour. During the visit, he will have high-level meetings at the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs with dedicated consultations on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) as India prepares to be on the high table from January.&nbsp;

Both sides are keen to jointly work at the council when India becomes a non-permanent member of the United Nation Security Council starting first January 2021. France is a veto-holding permanent member of the UNSC. Shringla will also make a speech in a prominent French think tank.

India is expected to get 3 Rafale jets on November 5th. New Delhi has already got the first batch of 5 Rafales earlier this year amid fanfare. The 5 Rafales were inducted at Ambala airbase on 10th September in the presence of French Defence Minister Florence Parly and Indian defence minister Rajnath Singh.

India is expected to get 3 Rafale jets on November 5th. New Delhi has already got the first batch of 5 Rafales earlier this year amid fanfare. The 5 Rafales were inducted at Ambala airbase on 10th September in the presence of French Defence Minister Florence Parly and Indian defence minister Rajnath Singh. Under the 2016 agreement worth Rs 59000 crores, India will get 36 rafales. The development comes even as tensions at the Line of actual control between India and China remains. The Chinese build-up at the LAC remains despite a number of rounds of diplomatic and military talks. Meanwhile, India's Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla is expected to be in France later this week during his European tour. During the visit, he will have high-level meetings at the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs with dedicated consultations on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) as India prepares to be on the high table from January. Both sides are keen to jointly work at the council when India becomes a non-permanent member of the United Nation Security Council starting first January 2021. France is a veto-holding permanent member of the UNSC. Shringla will also make a speech in a prominent French think tank.

India to get 3 Rafales on November 5

Even as the entire world is grappling with the Covid pandemic and vying for a possible vaccine, an Indian-American teenager has won a $25,000 prize for her work on a potential coronavirus treatment.

Along with the prize money, 14-year-old Anika Chebrolu has also been conferred the title of “America’s Top Young Scientist” for winning this year’s 3M Young Scientist Challenge, a middle school science competition in the US.

In an exclusive conversation with WION, Anika spoke about how after learning about the 1918 Spanish flu pandemic for a school project, she became fascinated with viruses and drug discovery.

Excerpts from the interview:

WION: Please tell us about your discovery/findings in details.

Anika: Through my research, I discovered a molecule that can attach to the Spike protein on the SARS-CoV2 virus and potentially change its shape and function. If you change the Spike protein shape, you can prevent the virus from being able to grab onto human cells and thereby, reduce or treat further infection in a person’s body.

I started by identifying my drug target which was the Spike protein on the membrane of the SARS-CoV2 virus. I screened millions of small molecules against the Spike protein on the surface of the virus and tested three main things --

I tested molecules for their binding affinity, which is a test on how best the molecules combine to a certain spot on the spike protein.

I tested to see if molecules would cause adverse effects in biological systems.

I tested the molecules to be sure they could function when taken orally in the human body.

Once I ran these tests, I narrowed it down to one lead compound that showed the best results from all the test I ran in the study and that can effectively bind to the Spike protein on the SARS-CoV2 and provide a potential antiviral to the COVID-19 pandemic.

WION: How can this be a hope for the potential treatment of Covid-19? Were there other findings by other youth as well? How was yours different?

Anika: The protein I studied is the Spike protein, which plays a critical role in the infectivity of the virus, or the binding and entering of the virus, into human cells. In targetting and altering the shape of this specific protein, we would basically be able to stop the virus from entering other, non-infected, human cells and thereby create a treatment that would prevent the virus from further spreading in a person with Covid-19 infection.

The other finalists in the 3M Young Scientist Challenge all had different projects, and they were all so fascinating! I truly enjoyed learning from everyone I was with.

WION: How and when did you get the idea of such discovery? What was your inspiration?

Anika: After learning about the 1918 Spanish flu pandemic for a school project, I became fascinated with viruses and drug discovery. I began researching drug discovery and learned about the in-silico methodology. I was amazed at how we could use computational methods to identify and develop potential drug-like molecules to combat diseases.

Last year, I tried using the silico methodology to identify a lead compound which could bind to the Hemagglutinin protein of Influenza virus. I was working on this project when Covid-19 hit.

After spending so much time researching about pandemics, viruses, and drug discovery, I couldn’t believe I was actually living through a pandemic. Due to Covid-19’s impact, I, with support of my mentor, Dr Mahfuza Ali from 3M, as part of the 3M Young Scientist&nbsp;

Challenge, decided to change the direction of my initial project to focus on how to potentially target the Spike protein of the SARS-CoV2 virus.

WION: How do you feel being named “America's Top Young Scientist”?

Anika: It is such a great feeling to earn that title and I am still in shock that I won the competition. Each of the other finalists had such great projects and innovations. They are all such well-rounded individuals. They taught me so much through teamwork and collaboration. I wouldn’t have been able to learn on my own.

WION: How are you planning to develop your findings into the cure of Covid-19?

Anika: My work this summer was to find a molecule that can bind to the Spike protein of the SARS-CoV2 virus and potentially provide a treatment route against the coronavirus using computational methods. However, my research is merely the first stage of a long and tedious drug discovery process to come. It needs to be tested further by in vitro and in vivo methods followed by human testing. 
&nbsp;

Even as the entire world is grappling with the Covid pandemic and vying for a possible vaccine, an Indian-American teenager has won a $25,000 prize for her work on a potential coronavirus treatment.

Even as the entire world is grappling with the Covid pandemic and vying for a possible vaccine, an Indian-American teenager has won a $25,000 prize for her work on a potential coronavirus treatment. Along with the prize money, 14-year-old Anika Chebrolu has also been conferred the title of “America’s Top Young Scientist” for winning this year’s 3M Young Scientist Challenge, a middle school science competition in the US. In an exclusive conversation with WION, Anika spoke about how after learning about the 1918 Spanish flu pandemic for a school project, she became fascinated with viruses and drug discovery. Excerpts from the interview: WION: Please tell us about your discovery/findings in details. Anika: Through my research, I discovered a molecule that can attach to the Spike protein on the SARS-CoV2 virus and potentially change its shape and function. If you change the Spike protein shape, you can prevent the virus from being able to grab onto human cells and thereby, reduce or treat further infection in a person’s body. I started by identifying my drug target which was the Spike protein on the membrane of the SARS-CoV2 virus. I screened millions of small molecules against the Spike protein on the surface of the virus and tested three main things -- I tested molecules for their binding affinity, which is a test on how best the molecules combine to a certain spot on the spike protein. I tested to see if molecules would cause adverse effects in biological systems. I tested the molecules to be sure they could function when taken orally in the human body. Once I ran these tests, I narrowed it down to one lead compound that showed the best results from all the test I ran in the study and that can effectively bind to the Spike protein on the SARS-CoV2 and provide a potential antiviral to the COVID-19 pandemic. WION: How can this be a hope for the potential treatment of Covid-19? Were there other findings by other youth as well? How was yours different? Anika: The protein I studied is the Spike protein, which plays a critical role in the infectivity of the virus, or the binding and entering of the virus, into human cells. In targetting and altering the shape of this specific protein, we would basically be able to stop the virus from entering other, non-infected, human cells and thereby create a treatment that would prevent the virus from further spreading in a person with Covid-19 infection. The other finalists in the 3M Young Scientist Challenge all had different projects, and they were all so fascinating! I truly enjoyed learning from everyone I was with. WION: How and when did you get the idea of such discovery? What was your inspiration? Anika: After learning about the 1918 Spanish flu pandemic for a school project, I became fascinated with viruses and drug discovery. I began researching drug discovery and learned about the in-silico methodology. I was amazed at how we could use computational methods to identify and develop potential drug-like molecules to combat diseases. Last year, I tried using the silico methodology to identify a lead compound which could bind to the Hemagglutinin protein of Influenza virus. I was working on this project when Covid-19 hit. After spending so much time researching about pandemics, viruses, and drug discovery, I couldn’t believe I was actually living through a pandemic. Due to Covid-19’s impact, I, with support of my mentor, Dr Mahfuza Ali from 3M, as part of the 3M Young Scientist Challenge, decided to change the direction of my initial project to focus on how to potentially target the Spike protein of the SARS-CoV2 virus. WION: How do you feel being named “America's Top Young Scientist”? Anika: It is such a great feeling to earn that title and I am still in shock that I won the competition. Each of the other finalists had such great projects and innovations. They are all such well-rounded individuals. They taught me so much through teamwork and collaboration. I wouldn’t have been able to learn on my own. WION: How are you planning to develop your findings into the cure of Covid-19? Anika: My work this summer was to find a molecule that can bind to the Spike protein of the SARS-CoV2 virus and potentially provide a treatment route against the coronavirus using computational methods. However, my research is merely the first stage of a long and tedious drug discovery process to come. It needs to be tested further by in vitro and in vivo methods followed by human testing.

'Still in shock': Indian-American teen on being named 'America’s Top Young Scientist'

The increasing pollution levels in Delhi and adjoining areas may contribute to the increase in COVID-19 cases and deaths due to the virus, experts said on Tuesday. Speaking at the Union Health Ministry`s press conference, Dr. VK Paul, Member (Health), NITI Aayog, and Dr Balram Bhargava, Director General (DG ) of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) agreed that increasing pollution around the national capital and adjoining areas may lead to increase in Coronavirus cases."We have heard that the effect of the disease may increase with the increased pollution, but we are yet to understand it fully," said Dr Paul.

Answering a question, Dr Bhargava also agreed with Dr Paul and said pollution might be a contributing factor to mortality in COVID-19 infection."There have been studies from Europe and the US, where they have looked at polluted areas and have compared mortality during lockdown and correlation with pollution, and found clearly that pollution is contributing to mortality in COVID, that`s well established by studies," ICMR chief said.Air quality deteriorates in the national capital with the rise of pollutants in the atmosphere and overall Delhi`s Air Quality Index (AQI) is in the "very poor" category, said the Delhi Pollution Control Committee data on Tuesday.

Dr Arvind Kumar, Chairman of Centre for Chest Surgery Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, in an earlier interaction with ANI said that people having pre-existing lung ailments are more vulnerable to catch COVID-19 infection, and therefore, they should be extra careful.Dr Vikash Maurya, Head of Respiratory medicine department at Fortis Hospital also said that with the COVID-19 crisis, pollution is going to be a big challenge this year.

"This is just the start of air pollution. Air quality has already become poor and will worse in the coming days. Its side-effect would be seen after the Diwali celebration and extreme winters. The bottom line is- we have to be cautious now as this time we have covid19 crisis too and this is going to be a very big challenge for all of us," said Dr Maurya.

According to an ICMR study, about 4 lakh deaths in India in 2017 were due to air pollution, which included 6.7 lakh deaths due to outdoor particulate matter air pollution and 4.8 lakh deaths due to household air pollution. The highest PM2.5 exposure level was in Delhi, followed by the other north Indian states of Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Haryana.

The increasing pollution levels in Delhi and adjoining areas may contribute to the increase in COVID-19 cases and deaths due to the virus, experts said on Tuesday.

The increasing pollution levels in Delhi and adjoining areas may contribute to the increase in COVID-19 cases and deaths due to the virus, experts said on Tuesday. Speaking at the Union Health Ministry`s press conference, Dr. VK Paul, Member (Health), NITI Aayog, and Dr Balram Bhargava, Director General (DG ) of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) agreed that increasing pollution around the national capital and adjoining areas may lead to increase in Coronavirus cases."We have heard that the effect of the disease may increase with the increased pollution, but we are yet to understand it fully," said Dr Paul. Answering a question, Dr Bhargava also agreed with Dr Paul and said pollution might be a contributing factor to mortality in COVID-19 infection."There have been studies from Europe and the US, where they have looked at polluted areas and have compared mortality during lockdown and correlation with pollution, and found clearly that pollution is contributing to mortality in COVID, that`s well established by studies," ICMR chief said.Air quality deteriorates in the national capital with the rise of pollutants in the atmosphere and overall Delhi`s Air Quality Index (AQI) is in the "very poor" category, said the Delhi Pollution Control Committee data on Tuesday. Dr Arvind Kumar, Chairman of Centre for Chest Surgery Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, in an earlier interaction with ANI said that people having pre-existing lung ailments are more vulnerable to catch COVID-19 infection, and therefore, they should be extra careful.Dr Vikash Maurya, Head of Respiratory medicine department at Fortis Hospital also said that with the COVID-19 crisis, pollution is going to be a big challenge this year. "This is just the start of air pollution. Air quality has already become poor and will worse in the coming days. Its side-effect would be seen after the Diwali celebration and extreme winters. The bottom line is- we have to be cautious now as this time we have covid19 crisis too and this is going to be a very big challenge for all of us," said Dr Maurya. According to an ICMR study, about 4 lakh deaths in India in 2017 were due to air pollution, which included 6.7 lakh deaths due to outdoor particulate matter air pollution and 4.8 lakh deaths due to household air pollution. The highest PM2.5 exposure level was in Delhi, followed by the other north Indian states of Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Haryana.

Increasing pollution levels may lead to increased COVID-19 cases: Experts

The number of coronavirus cases reported in India in a span of 24 hours dropped below 40,000 after over three months, while the new fatalities&nbsp;registered during the same period remained under 500,?according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Tuesday.

India's COVID-19 caseload mounted to 79,46,429, with 36,470 new infections being reported in a day, while the death toll due to the disease climbed to 1,19,502 with 488 new fatalities being recorded, the data updated at 8 am showed.

A total of 72,01,070 people have recuperated from COVID-19 so far, pushing the&nbsp;national recovery rate to 90.62 per cent while the case fatality rate stands at 1.50 per cent.

The number of active cases of coronavirus infection has remained below 7 lakh for five days in a row.

There are 6,25,857 active cases of coronavirus infection in the country as on date which comprises 7.88 per cent of the total caseload, the data stated.

India's COVID-19 tally had crossed the 20-lakh mark on August 7,?the 30-lakh mark on August 23 and 40 lakh cases on September 5.

It went past 50 lakh on September 16,??60 lakh cases on September 28, and crossed 70 lakh on October 11.

According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), a cumulative total of 10,44,20,894 samples have been tested up to October 24 with 9,58,116 samples being tested on Monday.

The number of coronavirus cases reported in India in a span of 24 hours dropped below 40,000 after over three months, while the new fatalities registered during the same period remained under 500,?

The number of coronavirus cases reported in India in a span of 24 hours dropped below 40,000 after over three months, while the new fatalities registered during the same period remained under 500,?according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Tuesday. India's COVID-19 caseload mounted to 79,46,429, with 36,470 new infections being reported in a day, while the death toll due to the disease climbed to 1,19,502 with 488 new fatalities being recorded, the data updated at 8 am showed. A total of 72,01,070 people have recuperated from COVID-19 so far, pushing the national recovery rate to 90.62 per cent while the case fatality rate stands at 1.50 per cent. The number of active cases of coronavirus infection has remained below 7 lakh for five days in a row. There are 6,25,857 active cases of coronavirus infection in the country as on date which comprises 7.88 per cent of the total caseload, the data stated. India's COVID-19 tally had crossed the 20-lakh mark on August 7,?the 30-lakh mark on August 23 and 40 lakh cases on September 5. It went past 50 lakh on September 16,??60 lakh cases on September 28, and crossed 70 lakh on October 11. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), a cumulative total of 10,44,20,894 samples have been tested up to October 24 with 9,58,116 samples being tested on Monday.

After over 3 months, India reports less than 40,000 COVID-19 cases in single day

As US secretary of state Mike Pompeo engaged with top Indian officials during the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/22-dialogue-in-a-major-boost-to-bilateral-ties-india-us-ink-strategic-defence-pact-beca-338263">2+2</a> dialogue, China's foreign ministry said that he should "stop hyping the so-called "China threat", and should stop sowing discord&nbsp;between China and other countries in the region as the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/india-china-standoff">standoff along the LAC</a> between Indian and Chinese troops continues.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/mike-pompeo-us-india-must-focus-on-chinese-threat-338313/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

China's foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin urged Pompeo to "stop erroneous acts that undermine regional peace and stability," as the United States inked a landmark defence agreement with India which allows high-end US military technology and classified satellite data.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sustained-and-irreversible-action-india-us-ask-pakistan-to-act-on-terrorism-during-22-meet-338315">Also Read:&nbsp;India, US ask Pakistan to act on terrorism during 2+2 meet</a>

The Chinese foreign ministry urged the Pompeo to stop driving the Trump administration’s "anti-China" message while on his visit to India.

The 2+2 dialogue involved external affairs minister S Jaishankar and defence minister Rajath Singh along with US secretary of state Mike Pompeo and defence secretary Mark T Esper as the two sides discussed issues related to the&nbsp;militaries of the two countries as well as their interests in the Indo-Pacific region.

The two countries also signed the Basic Exchange and Cooperation Agreement (BECA) pact boosting defence times amid the India-China standoff along the Line of Actual Control(LAC).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amid-rising-border-disputes-india-to-get-5-military-theatre-commands-1-each-for-china-pakistan-338246">Also Read:&nbsp;India to get 5 military theatre commands, 1 each for China &amp; Pakistan</a>

According to the General Security of Military Information Agreement (GSOMIA) which was signed by the two countries, the agreement allows specific measures to ensure security standards for safeguarding critical information shared by the US with India.

The US had earlier designated India a "major defence partner" with the aim to boost defence trade and technology.

The two countries had earlier signed the COMCASA (Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement) two year ago which provides for interoperability between the two militaries and ensures sale of high-end technology from the US to India.

As US secretary of state Mike Pompeo engaged with top Indian officials during the 2+2 dialogue, China's foreign ministry said that he should "stop hyping the so-called "China threat", and should stop sowing discord between China and other countries in the region as the standoff along the LAC between Indian and Chinese troops continues.

As US secretary of state Mike Pompeo engaged with top Indian officials during the 2+2 dialogue, China's foreign ministry said that he should "stop hyping the so-called "China threat", and should stop sowing discord between China and other countries in the region as the standoff along the LAC between Indian and Chinese troops continues. Watch: China's foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin urged Pompeo to "stop erroneous acts that undermine regional peace and stability," as the United States inked a landmark defence agreement with India which allows high-end US military technology and classified satellite data. Also Read: India, US ask Pakistan to act on terrorism during 2+2 meet The Chinese foreign ministry urged the Pompeo to stop driving the Trump administration’s "anti-China" message while on his visit to India. The 2+2 dialogue involved external affairs minister S Jaishankar and defence minister Rajath Singh along with US secretary of state Mike Pompeo and defence secretary Mark T Esper as the two sides discussed issues related to the militaries of the two countries as well as their interests in the Indo-Pacific region. The two countries also signed the Basic Exchange and Cooperation Agreement (BECA) pact boosting defence times amid the India-China standoff along the Line of Actual Control(LAC). Also Read: India to get 5 military theatre commands, 1 each for China & Pakistan According to the General Security of Military Information Agreement (GSOMIA) which was signed by the two countries, the agreement allows specific measures to ensure security standards for safeguarding critical information shared by the US with India. The US had earlier designated India a "major defence partner" with the aim to boost defence trade and technology. The two countries had earlier signed the COMCASA (Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement) two year ago which provides for interoperability between the two militaries and ensures sale of high-end technology from the US to India.

India-China standoff: Stop hyping 'threat', China urges Pompeo amid 2+2 dialogue with India

&nbsp;India and the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/22-dialogue-in-a-major-boost-to-bilateral-ties-india-us-ink-strategic-defence-pact-beca-338263"> United States</a> have called on Pakistan to act on terrorism and not allow its territory to be used for terrorist attacks.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/news-alert-india-us-ink-deal-to-share-geospatial-data-338293/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The joint statement issued by both sides after the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-india-must-focus-on-threat-posed-by-china-secretary-of-state-mike-pompeo-338239">2+2</a> foreign and defence minister meet in Delhi said, "They denounced the use of terrorist proxies and strongly condemned cross-border terrorism in all its forms" and emphasised the "need for concerted action against all terrorist networks, including al-Qaeda, ISIS/Daesh,<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-declares-18-pakistan-based-individuals-including-hizbul-chief-chota-shakeel-as-terrorists-under-uapa-338247"> Lashkar-e-Tayyiba (LeT)</a>, Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) and Hizb-ul-Mujahideen."

Earlier this year at the seventeenth meeting of the India-US Counter-Terrorism Joint Working Group had met virtually, followed by the third session of the India-US Designations Dialogue on September 9-10.

The joint statement calling on Pakistan to take "immediate, sustained and irreversible action" to ensure that "no territory under its control is used for terrorist attacks" asked Pakistan to "expeditiously bring to justice the perpetrators and planners of all such attacks, including 26/11 Mumbai, Uri, and Pathankot."

Both sides have been exchanging information on sanctions and designations against terror groups and individuals.&nbsp;

After the Pulwama terror attack last year, US along with India's allies like France helped to list Masood Azhar as a global terror at the UN. Azhar's Jaish-e-Mohammed was responsible for the 2019 terror attack in which India lost more than 40 paramilitary soldiers.

India and the United States have called on Pakistan to act on terrorism and not allow its territory to be used for terrorist attacks. Watch: The joint statement issued by both sides after the 2+2 foreign and defence minister meet in Delhi said, "They denounced the use of terrorist proxies and strongly condemned cross-border terrorism in all its forms" and emphasised the "need for concerted action against all terrorist networks, including al-Qaeda, ISIS/Daesh, Lashkar-e-Tayyiba (LeT), Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) and Hizb-ul-Mujahideen.

India and the United States have called on Pakistan to act on terrorism and not allow its territory to be used for terrorist attacks. Watch: The joint statement issued by both sides after the 2+2 foreign and defence minister meet in Delhi said, "They denounced the use of terrorist proxies and strongly condemned cross-border terrorism in all its forms" and emphasised the "need for concerted action against all terrorist networks, including al-Qaeda, ISIS/Daesh, Lashkar-e-Tayyiba (LeT), Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) and Hizb-ul-Mujahideen." Earlier this year at the seventeenth meeting of the India-US Counter-Terrorism Joint Working Group had met virtually, followed by the third session of the India-US Designations Dialogue on September 9-10. The joint statement calling on Pakistan to take "immediate, sustained and irreversible action" to ensure that "no territory under its control is used for terrorist attacks" asked Pakistan to "expeditiously bring to justice the perpetrators and planners of all such attacks, including 26/11 Mumbai, Uri, and Pathankot." Both sides have been exchanging information on sanctions and designations against terror groups and individuals. After the Pulwama terror attack last year, US along with India's allies like France helped to list Masood Azhar as a global terror at the UN. Azhar's Jaish-e-Mohammed was responsible for the 2019 terror attack in which India lost more than 40 paramilitary soldiers.

'Sustained and irreversible action': India, US ask Pakistan to act on terrorism during 2+2 meet

The United States and India must work together to confront the threat posed by China to security and freedom, US&nbsp;Secretary Mike&nbsp;Pompeo&nbsp;said on Tuesday as he prepared for talks with Indian leaders.

Pompeo&nbsp;arrived in New Delhi on Monday along with Defense Secretary Mark Esper for an annual strategic dialogue at a time of heightened tension in the region, with Indian troops confronting Chinese forces on the Line of Actual Control.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-and-united-states-to-ink-beca-military-deal-338190/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"Today is a new opportunity for two great democracies like ours to grow closer,"&nbsp;Pompeo&nbsp;said before the talks with Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.

"There is much more work to do for sure. We have a lot to discuss today: Our cooperation on the pandemic that originated in Wuhan, to confronting the Chinese Communist Party’s threats to security and freedom to promoting peace and stability throughout the region.”

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rajnath-singh-mark-esper-discuss-joint-service-cooperation-in-bilateral-meet-338063" hreflang="en">Rajnath Singh, Mark Esper discuss joint service cooperation in bilateral meet</a>

US&nbsp;President Donald Trump has made being tough on China a key part of his campaign to secure a second term in next week's presidential election and&nbsp;Pompeo&nbsp;has been trying to bolster allies to counter China's growing influence in the region.

In June, 20 Indian soldiers were killed in a clash with Chinese troops on their high-altitude border, hardening the mood in India against China and driving Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government to seek closer military ties with the United States.

This month, India invited Australia to join naval drills it holds each year with the United States and Japan, brushing off Chinese concerns that the exercises destabilise the region.

"Our focus now must be on institutionalising and regularising our cooperation to meet the challenges of the day and uphold the principles of a free and open Indo-Pacific well into the future," Esper said.

The two sides will later on Tuesday sign a military agreement that will give India access to advanced US&nbsp;satellite and map data for better accuracy of its missiles and drones.

The United States and India must work together to confront the threat posed by China to security and freedom, US Secretary Mike Pompeo said on Tuesday as he prepared for talks with Indian leaders.

The United States and India must work together to confront the threat posed by China to security and freedom, US Secretary Mike Pompeo said on Tuesday as he prepared for talks with Indian leaders. Pompeo arrived in New Delhi on Monday along with Defense Secretary Mark Esper for an annual strategic dialogue at a time of heightened tension in the region, with Indian troops confronting Chinese forces on the Line of Actual Control. "Today is a new opportunity for two great democracies like ours to grow closer," Pompeo said before the talks with Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. "There is much more work to do for sure. We have a lot to discuss today: Our cooperation on the pandemic that originated in Wuhan, to confronting the Chinese Communist Party’s threats to security and freedom to promoting peace and stability throughout the region.” Also read: Rajnath Singh, Mark Esper discuss joint service cooperation in bilateral meet US President Donald Trump has made being tough on China a key part of his campaign to secure a second term in next week's presidential election and Pompeo has been trying to bolster allies to counter China's growing influence in the region. In June, 20 Indian soldiers were killed in a clash with Chinese troops on their high-altitude border, hardening the mood in India against China and driving Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government to seek closer military ties with the United States. This month, India invited Australia to join naval drills it holds each year with the United States and Japan, brushing off Chinese concerns that the exercises destabilise the region. "Our focus now must be on institutionalising and regularising our cooperation to meet the challenges of the day and uphold the principles of a free and open Indo-Pacific well into the future," Esper said. The two sides will later on Tuesday sign a military agreement that will give India access to advanced US satellite and map data for better accuracy of its missiles and drones.

US, India must focus on threat posed by China: Secretary of State Mike Pompeo

India and the US on Tuesday inked a landmark defence agreement that will allow sharing of high-end military technology, classified satellite data and critical information between the two countries.

The signing of the long-negotiated Basic Exchange and Cooperation Agreement (BECA) during the third edition of the 2+2 dialogue between the two strategic partners also signals further boosting of bilateral defence and military ties and it comes in the backdrop of India's tense border standoff with China in eastern Ladakh.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Defence Minister Rajath Singh held the talks with US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Defence Secretary Mark T Esper.

Both sides were assisted by their top military and security officials.

In the 2+2 dialogue, the two sides deliberated on a host of critical issues including ways to further expand the already close relationship between the militaries of the two countries as well as broader issues of mutual interest in the Indo-Pacific region.

The inking of the BECA completes finalisation of four key pacts between the two countries which were identified as crucial to significantly expand the strategic ties.

A key pact called General Security of Military Information Agreement (GSOMIA) was signed by the two countries in 2002. The GSOMIA provides for specific measures to ensure security standards for safeguarding critical information shared by the US with India.

In a major move in 2016, the US had designated India a "Major Defence Partner" intending to elevate defence trade and technology sharing to a level commensurate with that of its closest allies and partners.

The two countries inked the Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement (LEMOA) in 2016 that allows their militaries to use each other's bases for repair and replenishment of supplies as well as provide for deeper cooperation.

India and the US signed another pact called COMCASA (Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement) in 2018 that provides for interoperability between the two militaries and provides for the sale of high-end technology from the US to India.

About BECA, officials said the agreement will give India access to classified geospatial data as well as critical information having significant military applications from the US.

India and the US on Tuesday inked a landmark defence agreement that will allow sharing of high-end military technology, classified satellite data and critical information between the two countries.

India and the US on Tuesday inked a landmark defence agreement that will allow sharing of high-end military technology, classified satellite data and critical information between the two countries. The signing of the long-negotiated Basic Exchange and Cooperation Agreement (BECA) during the third edition of the 2+2 dialogue between the two strategic partners also signals further boosting of bilateral defence and military ties and it comes in the backdrop of India's tense border standoff with China in eastern Ladakh. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Defence Minister Rajath Singh held the talks with US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Defence Secretary Mark T Esper. Both sides were assisted by their top military and security officials. In the 2+2 dialogue, the two sides deliberated on a host of critical issues including ways to further expand the already close relationship between the militaries of the two countries as well as broader issues of mutual interest in the Indo-Pacific region. The inking of the BECA completes finalisation of four key pacts between the two countries which were identified as crucial to significantly expand the strategic ties. A key pact called General Security of Military Information Agreement (GSOMIA) was signed by the two countries in 2002. The GSOMIA provides for specific measures to ensure security standards for safeguarding critical information shared by the US with India. In a major move in 2016, the US had designated India a "Major Defence Partner" intending to elevate defence trade and technology sharing to a level commensurate with that of its closest allies and partners. The two countries inked the Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement (LEMOA) in 2016 that allows their militaries to use each other's bases for repair and replenishment of supplies as well as provide for deeper cooperation. India and the US signed another pact called COMCASA (Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement) in 2018 that provides for interoperability between the two militaries and provides for the sale of high-end technology from the US to India. About BECA, officials said the agreement will give India access to classified geospatial data as well as critical information having significant military applications from the US.

2+2 dialogue: In a major boost to bilateral ties, India-US ink strategic defence pact BECA

The government of India has designated 18 more individuals, all Pakistan based, as “terrorists” under the amended anti-terror law that was passed by Parliament last year.

Earlier in August 2019, the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led Central government has amended the UAPA to include the provision of designating an individual as a terrorist. Prior to this amendment, only organizations could be designated as terrorist organizations.

Those designated as terrorists include Hizb-ul-Mujahideen commander Syed Salahudeen, founders of Indian Mujahideen Riyaz and Iqbal Bhatkal and gangster Dawood Ibrahim’s close aide Chota Shakeel. 
 
The hijackers of an Indian Airlines plane in 1999 -- Abdul Rauf Asghar, Ibrahim Athar and Yusuf Azhar -- have also been named in the list, prepared under provisions of the amended Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act.

The list names Riyaz Ismail Shahbandri alias Riyaz Bhatkal and his brother Mohammed Iqbal alias Iqbal Bhatkal, who formed Indian Mujahideen and were involved in various terrorist acts including attacks on German Bakery (2010), Chinnaswami Stadium, Bangalore (2010) , Jama Masjid (2010), Sheetlaghat (2010) and Mumbai (2011).

They have also been accused of terror financing and various terrorist acts including the Jaipur serial blasts (2008), Delhi serial blasts (2008), serial blasts in Ahmedabad and Surat (2008).

Four close aides of underworld don Dawood Ibrahim -- who was designated a global terrorist by the UN -- Shaikh Shakeel alias Chhota Shakeel, Mohammad Anis Shaikh, Ibrahim Memon alias Tiger Memon and Javed Chikna have been named in the list.

Besides being involved in 1993 serial blast in Mumbai, they are also accused of looking after all criminal and underworld operations of D-Company. 
Pakistan-based deputy chief of proscribed organization Falah-i-lnsaniyat Foundation (FIF) -- a frontal organisation of terror organisation Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) -- Shahid Mehmood alias Shahid Mehmood Rehmatullah, was also declared a terrorist.

Farhatullah Ghori alias Abu Sufiyan, a Pakistan-based terrorist who was involved in the attack on Akshardham Temple (2002) and the suicide attack on the Task Force office in Hyderabad (2005), also finds his name on the list.

The three kin of Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masoor Azhar -- Abdul Rauf Asghar, Ibrahim Athar and Yusuf Azhar -- all wanted in connection with the hijacking of an Indian Airlines plane in 1999 have been designated as terrorists. They are also on the Interpol Red Corner list.

The trio is also involved in setting up of training camps in Pakistan for recruitment and militant training. Asghar is also a key conspirator in the 2001 terrorist attack on Parliament House.

Besides Sallahuddin, whose original name is Syed Mohammed Yusuf Shah, his deputy Ghulam Nabi Khan alias Amir Khan has also been designated a terrorist. They have been accused of being involved in fundraising and routing finances to India for the furtherance of terrorist activities by Hizbul Mujahideen cadres.

Shahid Latif, a Pakistan-based terrorist and Jaish's Commander of Sialkot sector, involved in the launching of JeM terrorists into India, has also been named. He is also involved in planning, facilitation and execution of terror attacks in India.

The list also named Zaffar Hussain Bhat, a Pakistan-based person who handles financial affairs of Hizbul Mujahideen.

"Under the strong and iron-willed leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Central Government had amended the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967 to include the provision of designating an individual as a terrorist," the spokesperson said.

"Prior to this amendment, only organizations could be designated as terrorist organizations," he said.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah has unequivocally reaffirmed the nation's resolve to fight terrorism, he said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The government of India has designated 18 more individuals, all Pakistan based, as “terrorists” under the amended anti-terror law that was passed by Parliament last year.

The government of India has designated 18 more individuals, all Pakistan based, as “terrorists” under the amended anti-terror law that was passed by Parliament last year. Earlier in August 2019, the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led Central government has amended the UAPA to include the provision of designating an individual as a terrorist. Prior to this amendment, only organizations could be designated as terrorist organizations. Those designated as terrorists include Hizb-ul-Mujahideen commander Syed Salahudeen, founders of Indian Mujahideen Riyaz and Iqbal Bhatkal and gangster Dawood Ibrahim’s close aide Chota Shakeel. The hijackers of an Indian Airlines plane in 1999 -- Abdul Rauf Asghar, Ibrahim Athar and Yusuf Azhar -- have also been named in the list, prepared under provisions of the amended Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act. The list names Riyaz Ismail Shahbandri alias Riyaz Bhatkal and his brother Mohammed Iqbal alias Iqbal Bhatkal, who formed Indian Mujahideen and were involved in various terrorist acts including attacks on German Bakery (2010), Chinnaswami Stadium, Bangalore (2010) , Jama Masjid (2010), Sheetlaghat (2010) and Mumbai (2011). They have also been accused of terror financing and various terrorist acts including the Jaipur serial blasts (2008), Delhi serial blasts (2008), serial blasts in Ahmedabad and Surat (2008). Four close aides of underworld don Dawood Ibrahim -- who was designated a global terrorist by the UN -- Shaikh Shakeel alias Chhota Shakeel, Mohammad Anis Shaikh, Ibrahim Memon alias Tiger Memon and Javed Chikna have been named in the list. Besides being involved in 1993 serial blast in Mumbai, they are also accused of looking after all criminal and underworld operations of D-Company. Pakistan-based deputy chief of proscribed organization Falah-i-lnsaniyat Foundation (FIF) -- a frontal organisation of terror organisation Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) -- Shahid Mehmood alias Shahid Mehmood Rehmatullah, was also declared a terrorist. Farhatullah Ghori alias Abu Sufiyan, a Pakistan-based terrorist who was involved in the attack on Akshardham Temple (2002) and the suicide attack on the Task Force office in Hyderabad (2005), also finds his name on the list. The three kin of Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masoor Azhar -- Abdul Rauf Asghar, Ibrahim Athar and Yusuf Azhar -- all wanted in connection with the hijacking of an Indian Airlines plane in 1999 have been designated as terrorists. They are also on the Interpol Red Corner list. The trio is also involved in setting up of training camps in Pakistan for recruitment and militant training. Asghar is also a key conspirator in the 2001 terrorist attack on Parliament House. Besides Sallahuddin, whose original name is Syed Mohammed Yusuf Shah, his deputy Ghulam Nabi Khan alias Amir Khan has also been designated a terrorist. They have been accused of being involved in fundraising and routing finances to India for the furtherance of terrorist activities by Hizbul Mujahideen cadres. Shahid Latif, a Pakistan-based terrorist and Jaish's Commander of Sialkot sector, involved in the launching of JeM terrorists into India, has also been named. He is also involved in planning, facilitation and execution of terror attacks in India. The list also named Zaffar Hussain Bhat, a Pakistan-based person who handles financial affairs of Hizbul Mujahideen. "Under the strong and iron-willed leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Central Government had amended the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967 to include the provision of designating an individual as a terrorist," the spokesperson said. "Prior to this amendment, only organizations could be designated as terrorist organizations," he said. Union Home Minister Amit Shah has unequivocally reaffirmed the nation's resolve to fight terrorism, he said. (With inputs from agencies)

India declares 18 Pakistan-based individuals including Hizbul chief, Chota Shakeel as terrorists under UAPA

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday extended greetings on the occasion of Infantry Day and stated that India is proud of the role played by infantry in protecting our nation.

"Greetings to all ranks of our courageous infantry on the special occasion of Infantry Day. India is proud of the role played by the infantry in protecting our nation. Their bravery continues to motivate millions," PM Modi said in a tweet.

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Greetings to all ranks of our courageous infantry on the special occasion of Infantry Day. India is proud of the role played by the infantry in protecting our nation. Their bravery continues to motivate millions. <a href="https://t.co/R3GmvUcXhf">pic.twitter.com/R3GmvUcXhf</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1320988432835854336?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 27, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The Indian Army celebrates October 27 every year as the 'Infantry Day', as it was on this day that the 1st Battalion of the Sikh Regiment landed at Srinagar airbase and displayed resoluteness and extraordinary courage to thwart the evil designs of the Pakistan Army, who had invaded Kashmir with the help of tribal raiders in 1947.

The Chinar Corps of the Indian Army on Tuesday celebrated the 74th Infantry Day at Badami Bagh Cantonment in Srinagar to honour the supreme sacrifice of the gallant soldiers in fighting the Pakistani invaders in Jammu and Kashmir in 1947.

The celebration began with a solemn wreath-laying ceremony by Lieutenant General BS Raju, General Officer Commanding, Chinar Corps. Officers of all ranks paid tributes to the fallen soldiers at War Memorial at Badami Bagh Cantonment in Srinagar.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday extended greetings on the occasion of Infantry Day and stated that India is proud of the role played by infantry in protecting our nation.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday extended greetings on the occasion of Infantry Day and stated that India is proud of the role played by infantry in protecting our nation. "Greetings to all ranks of our courageous infantry on the special occasion of Infantry Day. India is proud of the role played by the infantry in protecting our nation. Their bravery continues to motivate millions," PM Modi said in a tweet. Greetings to all ranks of our courageous infantry on the special occasion of Infantry Day. India is proud of the role played by the infantry in protecting our nation. Their bravery continues to motivate millions. pic.twitter.com/R3GmvUcXhf — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 27, 2020 × The Indian Army celebrates October 27 every year as the 'Infantry Day', as it was on this day that the 1st Battalion of the Sikh Regiment landed at Srinagar airbase and displayed resoluteness and extraordinary courage to thwart the evil designs of the Pakistan Army, who had invaded Kashmir with the help of tribal raiders in 1947. The Chinar Corps of the Indian Army on Tuesday celebrated the 74th Infantry Day at Badami Bagh Cantonment in Srinagar to honour the supreme sacrifice of the gallant soldiers in fighting the Pakistani invaders in Jammu and Kashmir in 1947. The celebration began with a solemn wreath-laying ceremony by Lieutenant General BS Raju, General Officer Commanding, Chinar Corps. Officers of all ranks paid tributes to the fallen soldiers at War Memorial at Badami Bagh Cantonment in Srinagar.

India is proud of role played by infantry in protecting our nation: PM Modi

In a two-hour-long bilateral meet between US Secretary of state Mike Pompeo and External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar, key focus areas were Indo-Pacific, the situation in Afghanistan and a follow up on their Tokyo discussions earlier this month.

Sources told WION, both sides, "exchanged views on current global situation and its contemporary challenges and discussed our shared concerns and interests including stability and security in Asia, and how best that can be ensured".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-to-sign-beca-military-pact-with-us-338112" hreflang="en">India to sign BECA military pact with US</a>

This is the second meeting between the 2 ministers in a months' time and comes amidst Chinese aggressiveness not only with India but with other countries in the region. Both also had an in-person meeting earlier this month on the sidelines of the QUAD --India, US, Japan and Australia foreign minister meet in Tokyo, Japan.

Other focus areas of discussions were&nbsp;maritime security, open connectivity and resilient supply chains.&nbsp;During the meet, US Secretary of state&nbsp;shared with EAM the Trump Administration’s thinking on Afghanistan with the latter highlighting "India’s stakes and its continuing concern that decisions should be made by Afghans themselves without the use of force", sources added.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rajnath-singh-mark-esper-discuss-joint-service-cooperation-in-bilateral-meet-338063" hreflang="en">Rajnath Singh, Mark Esper discuss joint service cooperation in bilateral meet</a>

New Delhi also made, "clear that cross-border terrorism was completely unacceptable." This even as India has called on Pakistan to take action on terror safe havens it has been hosting, something that has gone deaf ears in Islamabad.&nbsp;

This is the fourth time US Secretary of the state is visiting India under Trump administration and how the closeness between the 2 countries.&nbsp;&nbsp;

During the meet, EAM called for "supportive policies" that helps in talent flow and underlined that a "innovation partnership is central to our future".&nbsp;&nbsp;Washington has been tightening visa rules, something that has been concerning many Indians who have been going to US for jobs, education.&nbsp;&nbsp;The number of Indian students studying in the United States has increased five years in a row, doubling from 96,000 students in the 2012- 13 academic year to more than 200,000 in 2018-19.

In a two-hour-long bilateral meet between US Secretary of state Mike Pompeo and External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar, key focus areas were Indo-Pacific, the situation in Afghanistan and a follow up on their Tokyo discussions earlier this month.

In a two-hour-long bilateral meet between US Secretary of state Mike Pompeo and External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar, key focus areas were Indo-Pacific, the situation in Afghanistan and a follow up on their Tokyo discussions earlier this month. Sources told WION, both sides, "exchanged views on current global situation and its contemporary challenges and discussed our shared concerns and interests including stability and security in Asia, and how best that can be ensured". Also read: India to sign BECA military pact with US This is the second meeting between the 2 ministers in a months' time and comes amidst Chinese aggressiveness not only with India but with other countries in the region. Both also had an in-person meeting earlier this month on the sidelines of the QUAD --India, US, Japan and Australia foreign minister meet in Tokyo, Japan. Other focus areas of discussions were maritime security, open connectivity and resilient supply chains. During the meet, US Secretary of state shared with EAM the Trump Administration’s thinking on Afghanistan with the latter highlighting "India’s stakes and its continuing concern that decisions should be made by Afghans themselves without the use of force", sources added. Also read: Rajnath Singh, Mark Esper discuss joint service cooperation in bilateral meet New Delhi also made, "clear that cross-border terrorism was completely unacceptable." This even as India has called on Pakistan to take action on terror safe havens it has been hosting, something that has gone deaf ears in Islamabad. This is the fourth time US Secretary of the state is visiting India under Trump administration and how the closeness between the 2 countries. During the meet, EAM called for "supportive policies" that helps in talent flow and underlined that a "innovation partnership is central to our future". Washington has been tightening visa rules, something that has been concerning many Indians who have been going to US for jobs, education. The number of Indian students studying in the United States has increased five years in a row, doubling from 96,000 students in the 2012- 13 academic year to more than 200,000 in 2018-19.

Pompeo-Jaishankar discuss Indo-Pacific, Afghanistan

India on Monday confirmed 45,148 new coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours, taking the total caseload to 7,909,959.&nbsp;

As per the latest data by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, India also added 480 new Covid-19 deaths, which is the lowest since July 10.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/all-citizens-in-india-to-get-free-covid-19-vaccine-union-minister-pratap-sarangi-337905">All citizens in India to get free COVID-19 vaccine: Union Minister Pratap Sarangi</a>

India's death toll stands at 119,014 and as many as 7,137,229 people have so far recovered from Covid-19, bringing the recovery rate to over 90 per cent.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rbi-governor-shaktikanta-das-tests-positive-for-coronavirus-337871">RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das tests positive for coronavirus</a>

At least 55 per cent of total coronavirus deaths in India are just from five states: Maharashtra, West Bengal, Delhi, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.

Since August, India has been recording about 1,000 daily deaths, but there has been a steady decline in the number of infections and fatalities.&nbsp;

The United States is the worst-hit country both in terms of cases and deaths with more than 8.1 million infections and 224,906 fatalities.&nbsp;

India has the second-highest caseload, while Brazil has seen the most number of deaths after the US with 156,903 fatalities.

Brazil is followed by India in terms of the national death toll. Mexico and Britain stand third and fourth in this list with 88,743 and 44,745 deaths.&nbsp;

As many as 42,694,798 have been infected with Covid-19 worldwide and the overall death toll stands at 1,151,077.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

India on Monday confirmed 45,148 new coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours, taking the total caseload to 7,909,959. As per the latest data by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, India also added 480 new Covid-19 deaths, which is the lowest since July 10.

India on Monday confirmed 45,148 new coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours, taking the total caseload to 7,909,959. As per the latest data by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, India also added 480 new Covid-19 deaths, which is the lowest since July 10. Also read | All citizens in India to get free COVID-19 vaccine: Union Minister Pratap Sarangi India's death toll stands at 119,014 and as many as 7,137,229 people have so far recovered from Covid-19, bringing the recovery rate to over 90 per cent. Also read | RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das tests positive for coronavirus At least 55 per cent of total coronavirus deaths in India are just from five states: Maharashtra, West Bengal, Delhi, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. Since August, India has been recording about 1,000 daily deaths, but there has been a steady decline in the number of infections and fatalities. The United States is the worst-hit country both in terms of cases and deaths with more than 8.1 million infections and 224,906 fatalities. India has the second-highest caseload, while Brazil has seen the most number of deaths after the US with 156,903 fatalities. Brazil is followed by India in terms of the national death toll. Mexico and Britain stand third and fourth in this list with 88,743 and 44,745 deaths. As many as 42,694,798 have been infected with Covid-19 worldwide and the overall death toll stands at 1,151,077.

India: Coronavirus infections near 80 million; daily death toll lowest in three months

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said India would be the major driver of global energy demand in the years to come, but will hold down carbon emissions even as its power consumption soars.

"India is set to nearly double its energy consumption over the long term," Modi said in the inaugural address at the conference India Energy Forum by CERAWeek.

India has implemented a series of reforms in recent years, including setting up a gas trading exchange and granting marketing freedom to producers, to boost its local output.

Modi said even international agencies that project a contraction in global energy demand to continue for next few years expect Indian demand to rise.

"Our energy sector will be growth-centric, industry friendly and environment conscious. We are well on track to meet the commitment we made to the global community," he said.

"India's Energy Plan aims to ensure energy justice. That too while fully following our global commitments for sustainable growth. This means more energy to improve the lives of Indians. But, with a smaller carbon foot-print."

India is set to raise its annual refining capacity from 250 million tonnes to 400 million tonnes by 2025, while Indian airlines are projected to double their fleet size to 1200 by 2024, Modi said.

To cut its carbon emissions India aims to raise the share of natural gas in its energy mix to 15% by 2030 from the current 6.2% and lift its renewable energy generation to 175 gigawatts by 2022 and to 450 gigawatts by 2030. 
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Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said India would be the major driver of global energy demand in the years to come, but will hold down carbon emissions even as its power consumption soars.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said India would be the major driver of global energy demand in the years to come, but will hold down carbon emissions even as its power consumption soars. "India is set to nearly double its energy consumption over the long term," Modi said in the inaugural address at the conference India Energy Forum by CERAWeek. India has implemented a series of reforms in recent years, including setting up a gas trading exchange and granting marketing freedom to producers, to boost its local output. Modi said even international agencies that project a contraction in global energy demand to continue for next few years expect Indian demand to rise. "Our energy sector will be growth-centric, industry friendly and environment conscious. We are well on track to meet the commitment we made to the global community," he said. "India's Energy Plan aims to ensure energy justice. That too while fully following our global commitments for sustainable growth. This means more energy to improve the lives of Indians. But, with a smaller carbon foot-print." India is set to raise its annual refining capacity from 250 million tonnes to 400 million tonnes by 2025, while Indian airlines are projected to double their fleet size to 1200 by 2024, Modi said. To cut its carbon emissions India aims to raise the share of natural gas in its energy mix to 15% by 2030 from the current 6.2% and lift its renewable energy generation to 175 gigawatts by 2022 and to 450 gigawatts by 2030.

India to drive global energy demand while cutting emissions, Modi says

India will be sending food aid to four central African countries of&nbsp;Sudan, South Sudan, Djibouti and Eritrea. The 270 MT aid is to help these countries deal with the COVID pandemic and also natural calamities.&nbsp;

Ministry of External Affairs release said, "strong bonds of friendship and brotherly relations between India and countries in Africa have been forged and strengthened over several centuries."

Adding, "India has always stood in solidarity with the countries and people in Africa and has partnered in undertaking development, capacity building and humanitarian assistance programmes."

The aid is being transported on Indian Nava Ship Airvat which left Mumbai on 24th October and it will make port calls at&nbsp;Djibouti, Massawa, Port Sudan and Mombasa. The 270 MT aid includes --155 MT of wheat flour, 65 MT of rice and 50 MT of sugar.

Amidst the COVID Pandemic, India has reached out to several countries. It supplied anti-COVID medicine HCQ to over 150 countries. Earlier this year, it sent medical and food assistance to five countries of the Indian Ocean--Maldives, Mauritius, Seychelles, Madagascar and Comoros to deal with the crisis.&nbsp;

India will be sending food aid to four central African countries of Sudan, South Sudan, Djibouti and Eritrea. The 270 MT aid is to help these countries deal with the COVID pandemic and also natural calamities.

India will be sending food aid to four central African countries of Sudan, South Sudan, Djibouti and Eritrea. The 270 MT aid is to help these countries deal with the COVID pandemic and also natural calamities. Ministry of External Affairs release said, "strong bonds of friendship and brotherly relations between India and countries in Africa have been forged and strengthened over several centuries." Adding, "India has always stood in solidarity with the countries and people in Africa and has partnered in undertaking development, capacity building and humanitarian assistance programmes." The aid is being transported on Indian Nava Ship Airvat which left Mumbai on 24th October and it will make port calls at Djibouti, Massawa, Port Sudan and Mombasa. The 270 MT aid includes --155 MT of wheat flour, 65 MT of rice and 50 MT of sugar. Amidst the COVID Pandemic, India has reached out to several countries. It supplied anti-COVID medicine HCQ to over 150 countries. Earlier this year, it sent medical and food assistance to five countries of the Indian Ocean--Maldives, Mauritius, Seychelles, Madagascar and Comoros to deal with the crisis.

India sends aid to four African countries to deal with COVID-19 crisis

India will sign a key military pact -- BECA or Basic Exchange and Cooperation Agreement -- with the United States.

"Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and US Defence Secretary Mark Esper confirmed the agreement of BECA will be signed during the visit," the defence ministry said, in a statement on Monday.

India and US have already signed Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement (COMCASA) in 2018, Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement (LEMOA) in 2016, General Security Of Military Information Agreement (GSOMIA) in 2002.

BECA is the last of the four foundational agreements agreed upon, and will allow for expanded geospatial information sharing between American and Indian armed forces.

Esper and US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo are in New Delhi for 2+2 meet. The visit is significant given it comes amid Chinese aggression on the border and the Covid-19 pandemic.

Rajnath Singh and Esper held a bilateral meeting on Monday.

India will sign a key military pact -- BECA or Basic Exchange and Cooperation Agreement -- with the United States. "Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and US Defence Secretary Mark Esper confirmed the agreement of BECA will be signed during the visit," the defence ministry said, in a statement on Monday.

India will sign a key military pact -- BECA or Basic Exchange and Cooperation Agreement -- with the United States. "Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and US Defence Secretary Mark Esper confirmed the agreement of BECA will be signed during the visit," the defence ministry said, in a statement on Monday. India and US have already signed Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement (COMCASA) in 2018, Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement (LEMOA) in 2016, General Security Of Military Information Agreement (GSOMIA) in 2002. BECA is the last of the four foundational agreements agreed upon, and will allow for expanded geospatial information sharing between American and Indian armed forces. Esper and US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo are in New Delhi for 2+2 meet. The visit is significant given it comes amid Chinese aggression on the border and the Covid-19 pandemic. Rajnath Singh and Esper held a bilateral meeting on Monday.

India to sign BECA military pact with US

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