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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Trump has meltdown on Truth Social, vows to become ‘Political Pundit’

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

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

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

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

US midterms: What went wrong for Trump? | Gravitas

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

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

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

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

Did aliens just send earth a signal? China detects mystery radio pulse from 238 light-years away

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

Spate of similar deaths raises alarm over heart health in children

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Jammu and Kashmir government on Tuesday revoked Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chief Mehbooba Muftis Public Safety Act (PSA) under which she was detained in Kashmir for over last one year.

The Deputy Commissioner ordered that the PSA has been revoked with immediate effect.

Her detention period had been extended for a period of three months on July 31 this year.

Mehbooba, 60, who was initially put under preventive custody on August 5 last year and later booked under the stringent PSA on February 6, was shifted to her official residence on April 7 after it was declared a subsidiary jail by the authorities.

Her elated daughter Iltija expressed happiness that her mother was finally released from detention.

She also signed off from her mother's Twitter handle with a tweet: "I'd like to thank everybody who supported me in these tough times. I owe a debt of gratitude to you all. This is Iltija signing off."

Former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah also tweeted that he was pleased to hear that Mehooba had been released after more than a year in detention.

A J&amp;K home department order read, "In exercise of powers under section 19(1) of the Jammu Kashmir Public Safety Act 1978 the government hereby revokes the detention order...issued by District Magistrate Srinagar which was extended for the period of three months...dated 31-07-2020 of Mehbooba Mufti D/I Lt Mufti Mohammad Syed R/I Bijbehara A/P Nowgam, Srinagar with immediate effect.”

(With inputs from agencies)

The Jammu and Kashmir government on Tuesday revoked Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chief Mehbooba Muftis Public Safety Act (PSA) under which she was detained in Kashmir for over last one year.

The Jammu and Kashmir government on Tuesday revoked Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chief Mehbooba Muftis Public Safety Act (PSA) under which she was detained in Kashmir for over last one year. The Deputy Commissioner ordered that the PSA has been revoked with immediate effect. Her detention period had been extended for a period of three months on July 31 this year. Mehbooba, 60, who was initially put under preventive custody on August 5 last year and later booked under the stringent PSA on February 6, was shifted to her official residence on April 7 after it was declared a subsidiary jail by the authorities. Her elated daughter Iltija expressed happiness that her mother was finally released from detention. She also signed off from her mother's Twitter handle with a tweet: "I'd like to thank everybody who supported me in these tough times. I owe a debt of gratitude to you all. This is Iltija signing off." Former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah also tweeted that he was pleased to hear that Mehooba had been released after more than a year in detention. A J&K home department order read, "In exercise of powers under section 19(1) of the Jammu Kashmir Public Safety Act 1978 the government hereby revokes the detention order...issued by District Magistrate Srinagar which was extended for the period of three months...dated 31-07-2020 of Mehbooba Mufti D/I Lt Mufti Mohammad Syed R/I Bijbehara A/P Nowgam, Srinagar with immediate effect.” (With inputs from agencies)

PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti released from detention, confirms Jammu and Kashmir administration

An encounter began between security forces and terrorists in Chakura area of south Kashmir`s Shopian district on Wednesday, officials said.

The gunfight started after the security forces cordoned off the area and launched a search operation on the basis of a specific information about the presence of terrorists.

As the security forces zeroed in, terrorists hiding in the area filed on them. "The encounter has started in Chakura area of Shopian. Police and other security forces are on the job," police said.

An encounter began between security forces and terrorists in Chakura area of south Kashmir`s Shopian district on Wednesday, officials said. The gunfight started after the security forces cordoned off the area and launched a search operation on the basis of a specific information about the presence of terrorists.

An encounter began between security forces and terrorists in Chakura area of south Kashmir`s Shopian district on Wednesday, officials said. The gunfight started after the security forces cordoned off the area and launched a search operation on the basis of a specific information about the presence of terrorists. As the security forces zeroed in, terrorists hiding in the area filed on them. "The encounter has started in Chakura area of Shopian. Police and other security forces are on the job," police said.

Gunfight between security forces, terrorists on in Kashmir''s Shopian

Two security force personnel, including a jawan of the SSB, have gone missing along with some weapons and ammunition from Chadoora area of central Kashmir's Budgam district, officials said here on Wednesday.

A special police officer, identified as Altaf Hussain, was reported missing from the camp of a special operations group at Chadoora, the officials said.

Two AK rifles and three magazines have also gone missing from the camp, the officials said, adding the matter is being investigated.

In another incident, a constable of the SSB -- also named Altaf Hussain -- has gone missing from the camp at Nagam area, near Chadoora.

One magazine of INSAS rifle and 20 rounds have been reported missing from the SSB camp, the officials said.

While the SPO is a local from Chadoora area, the SSB constable hails from Koteranka area of Rajouri district.

Two security force personnel, including a jawan of the SSB, have gone missing along with some weapons and ammunition from Chadoora area of central Kashmir's Budgam district, officials said here on Wednesday.

Two security force personnel, including a jawan of the SSB, have gone missing along with some weapons and ammunition from Chadoora area of central Kashmir's Budgam district, officials said here on Wednesday. A special police officer, identified as Altaf Hussain, was reported missing from the camp of a special operations group at Chadoora, the officials said. Two AK rifles and three magazines have also gone missing from the camp, the officials said, adding the matter is being investigated. In another incident, a constable of the SSB -- also named Altaf Hussain -- has gone missing from the camp at Nagam area, near Chadoora. One magazine of INSAS rifle and 20 rounds have been reported missing from the SSB camp, the officials said. While the SPO is a local from Chadoora area, the SSB constable hails from Koteranka area of Rajouri district.

Two security personnel go missing in Jammu and Kashmir

Donald Trump's ardent Indian fan in Telangana has died of cardiac arrest. Bussa Krishna, who worshipped Donald Trump and was upset by the news of US President contracting Covid-19 passed away on Sunday (October 11). He had posted a tearful video on his Facebook page some days ago and had wished Trump good health and had prayed for his fast recovery from coronavirus that has killed more than 1 million people worldwide.

Trump revealed on Oct. 2 that he had tested positive for COVID-19 and spent three nights in the hospital for treatment. He said on Sunday he had fully recovered and was due to resume campaigning on Monday ahead of the Nov. 3 U.S. election.

Speaking to local media, Krishna's family said he was "depressed" that Trump and his wife Melania had got the disease and that he wasn't eating or sleeping in the days before he collapsed.

"He started worshipping more like not for the one or two hours, but for three-four hours and he's starving, he's fasting, starving, fasting and he's crying continuously," Krishna's cousin told local media.

(With Reuters inputs)

Donald Trump's ardent Indian fan in Telangana has died of cardiac arrest. Bussa Krishna, who worshipped Donald Trump and was upset by the news of US President contracting Covid-19 passed away on Sunday (October 11).

Donald Trump's ardent Indian fan in Telangana has died of cardiac arrest. Bussa Krishna, who worshipped Donald Trump and was upset by the news of US President contracting Covid-19 passed away on Sunday (October 11). He had posted a tearful video on his Facebook page some days ago and had wished Trump good health and had prayed for his fast recovery from coronavirus that has killed more than 1 million people worldwide. Trump revealed on Oct. 2 that he had tested positive for COVID-19 and spent three nights in the hospital for treatment. He said on Sunday he had fully recovered and was due to resume campaigning on Monday ahead of the Nov. 3 U.S. election. Speaking to local media, Krishna's family said he was "depressed" that Trump and his wife Melania had got the disease and that he wasn't eating or sleeping in the days before he collapsed. "He started worshipping more like not for the one or two hours, but for three-four hours and he's starving, he's fasting, starving, fasting and he's crying continuously," Krishna's cousin told local media. (With Reuters inputs)

Telangana: Ardent fan of Donald Trump dies 'depressed' after US President's Covid-19 infection

Indian Superfan of Trump Bussa Krishna was worried over Trump’s health as soon as he heard that the US President tested COVID positive. He died of a massive cardiac arrest at Toopran.

Indian Superfan upset over Trump's health dies

China has reacted to India's big infrastructural push along the LAC in Ladakh. China said that the Indian side has been ramping up intracultural development along the border and stepping up military deployment. Watch report.

India-China border standoff: Infrastructure along LAC, cause of tensions

Actor Rajinikanth’s counsel has informed the Madras High Court that they would be withdrawing the writ petition challenging the Rs.6.5 lakh property tax imposed by the Chennai Corporation, upon the Raghavendra Marriage hall that he owns.

The actor had approached the court with regard to the property tax demand made by the Greater Chennai Corporation for the months April-September. The actor's counsel had stated that he had been regularly paying property tax for the marriage hall and that the tax was last paid on February 14.&nbsp;

His counsel had stated that once the pandemic broke out and lockdown restrictions were imposed by central and state government, Rajini’s marrige hall had remained vacant and was not rented out since March 24.&nbsp;

It was mentioned that the actor had cancelled all bookings at the marriage hall after March 24&nbsp;(lockdown 1) and even refunded the advance money in line with government instructions. The actor stated that he was entitled to vacancy remission on property tax and that he had sent a notice in this regard to the corporation on September 23 and that there was no reply.&nbsp;

Responding to this, Justice Anita Sumanth warned the actor that costs would be imposed, for him having rushed to the Court, hardly ten days after he had sent a notice to the Corporation. It was also added that the actor ought to have sent a reminder to the civic body.

​Lawyers point out that in several cases, the courts have uniformly held that a waiver of taxes cannot be sought. It is also said that payment of tax is compulsory irrespective of pandemic or natural disasters.&nbsp;

Actor Rajinikanth’s counsel has informed the Madras High Court that they would be withdrawing the writ petition challenging the Rs.6.5 lakh property tax imposed by the Chennai Corporation, upon the Raghavendra Marriage hall that he owns.

Actor Rajinikanth’s counsel has informed the Madras High Court that they would be withdrawing the writ petition challenging the Rs.6.5 lakh property tax imposed by the Chennai Corporation, upon the Raghavendra Marriage hall that he owns. The actor had approached the court with regard to the property tax demand made by the Greater Chennai Corporation for the months April-September. The actor's counsel had stated that he had been regularly paying property tax for the marriage hall and that the tax was last paid on February 14. His counsel had stated that once the pandemic broke out and lockdown restrictions were imposed by central and state government, Rajini’s marrige hall had remained vacant and was not rented out since March 24. It was mentioned that the actor had cancelled all bookings at the marriage hall after March 24 (lockdown 1) and even refunded the advance money in line with government instructions. The actor stated that he was entitled to vacancy remission on property tax and that he had sent a notice in this regard to the corporation on September 23 and that there was no reply. Responding to this, Justice Anita Sumanth warned the actor that costs would be imposed, for him having rushed to the Court, hardly ten days after he had sent a notice to the Corporation. It was also added that the actor ought to have sent a reminder to the civic body. Lawyers point out that in several cases, the courts have uniformly held that a waiver of taxes cannot be sought. It is also said that payment of tax is compulsory irrespective of pandemic or natural disasters.

Rajinikanth to withdraw case against property tax after court warns of imposing cost

Indian-origin philanthropist Harish Kotecha has been awarded the prestigious Sandra Neese Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of his work in the US for meeting the needs of children and youth experiencing homelessness.

The lifetime achievement award from the National Association for the Education of Homeless Children and Youth (NAEHCY) was presented to Kotecha, who is founder and president of Hindu Charities for America (HC4A), at its 32nd annual conference on October 9, a statement said.

Sandra Neese Lifetime Achievement Award is presented annually to honour people who have tirelessly worked to ensure that all children may have what most take for granted: safety, shelter, and a future and that young people without shelter may find the promise of tomorrow.

NAEHCY's Board of Directors were impressed with "your (Kotecha's) ability to transform a singular movement into a replicable programme that now is established in 4 major cities," the statement said.

In her award letter to Kotecha, Jimiyu Evans, president, NAEHCY wrote that, "We are glad to have an advocate like you in the field to meet the needs of children and youth experiencing homelessness ''&nbsp;supporting and encouraging academic success,&nbsp;while implementing programme coordination and community collaboration.''

In his remarks, Kotecha said that the award recognised the impact of HC4A, all the volunteers, donors, sponsors and well-wishers of HC4A!

Hindu Charities for America has programmes for homeless or near-homeless students, provide school supplies at the start of the school year. To date, over 11,000 low income children have been gifted with backpacks at the onset of the school year.

It also awards vocational training scholarships to low-income, nontraditional students. Over 550 students have received vocational training scholarships that have pulled them out of poverty into well-paying and meaningful careers.

Indian-origin philanthropist Harish Kotecha has been awarded the prestigious Sandra Neese Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of his work in the US for meeting the needs of children and youth experiencing homelessness.

Indian-origin philanthropist Harish Kotecha has been awarded the prestigious Sandra Neese Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of his work in the US for meeting the needs of children and youth experiencing homelessness. The lifetime achievement award from the National Association for the Education of Homeless Children and Youth (NAEHCY) was presented to Kotecha, who is founder and president of Hindu Charities for America (HC4A), at its 32nd annual conference on October 9, a statement said. Sandra Neese Lifetime Achievement Award is presented annually to honour people who have tirelessly worked to ensure that all children may have what most take for granted: safety, shelter, and a future and that young people without shelter may find the promise of tomorrow. NAEHCY's Board of Directors were impressed with "your (Kotecha's) ability to transform a singular movement into a replicable programme that now is established in 4 major cities," the statement said. In her award letter to Kotecha, Jimiyu Evans, president, NAEHCY wrote that, "We are glad to have an advocate like you in the field to meet the needs of children and youth experiencing homelessness '' supporting and encouraging academic success, while implementing programme coordination and community collaboration.'' In his remarks, Kotecha said that the award recognised the impact of HC4A, all the volunteers, donors, sponsors and well-wishers of HC4A! Hindu Charities for America has programmes for homeless or near-homeless students, provide school supplies at the start of the school year. To date, over 11,000 low income children have been gifted with backpacks at the onset of the school year. It also awards vocational training scholarships to low-income, nontraditional students. Over 550 students have received vocational training scholarships that have pulled them out of poverty into well-paying and meaningful careers.

Indian-origin philanthropist Harish Kotecha wins lifetime achievement award in US

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said his government's 'historic' farm reforms will create opportunities to take farmers to entrepreneurship and added his regime is focused on increasing their income.

Modi was speaking after releasing the autobiography of former Union Minister Balasaheb Vikhe Patil and renaming the Pravara Rural Education Society in Ahmednagar district after the Padma Bhushan recipient, via video conferencing.

Terming the farm reforms as historic, the prime minister said, "Today opportunities are being created to take farming and farmers from the role of annadata (food provider) to entrepreneurship."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-new-farm-bills-whats-good-what-may-not-be-330262">India's new farm bills: What's good, what may not be</a>

Referring to high milk, sugar, and wheat production in Gujarat, Maharashtra, Haryana and Punjab, Modi said such models of local enterprise will take the country forward.

He said there was a time after Independence when the country did not have sufficient food stock.

"The governments priority then was to increase food production. So the entire focus was on increasing production. Farmers toiled hard to achieve the objective," Modi said.

"But governments and policies did not pay attention towards profitability of farmers while being concerned about increasing productivity. 
"People forgot about income for farmers. But for the first time, this thinking has been changed," he said and listed steps the Centre has taken for the welfare of farmers.

Noting that the COVID-19 threat still persists, Modi called for observing social distancing norms and maintaining effective personal hygiene.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said his government's 'historic' farm reforms will create opportunities to take farmers to entrepreneurship and added his regime is focused on increasing their income.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said his government's 'historic' farm reforms will create opportunities to take farmers to entrepreneurship and added his regime is focused on increasing their income. Modi was speaking after releasing the autobiography of former Union Minister Balasaheb Vikhe Patil and renaming the Pravara Rural Education Society in Ahmednagar district after the Padma Bhushan recipient, via video conferencing. Terming the farm reforms as historic, the prime minister said, "Today opportunities are being created to take farming and farmers from the role of annadata (food provider) to entrepreneurship." Also read: India's new farm bills: What's good, what may not be Referring to high milk, sugar, and wheat production in Gujarat, Maharashtra, Haryana and Punjab, Modi said such models of local enterprise will take the country forward. He said there was a time after Independence when the country did not have sufficient food stock. "The governments priority then was to increase food production. So the entire focus was on increasing production. Farmers toiled hard to achieve the objective," Modi said. "But governments and policies did not pay attention towards profitability of farmers while being concerned about increasing productivity. "People forgot about income for farmers. But for the first time, this thinking has been changed," he said and listed steps the Centre has taken for the welfare of farmers. Noting that the COVID-19 threat still persists, Modi called for observing social distancing norms and maintaining effective personal hygiene.

PM Modi says farm reforms will help turn farmers into entrepreneurs

The Indian army has foiled an attempt by Pakistan to smuggle weapons into Jammu and Kashmir, the second attempt in the last five days.

According to Army sources, Indian troops deployed at the Tangdhar sector of North Kashmir thwarted an attempt by the Pakistan Army to smuggle weapons from Pakistan occupied Jammu and Kashmir on Monday.

At 6:30 pm on Monday, a joint search operation was launched along with Jammu and Kashmir Police, Army sources said."The joint team recovered a bag containing five pistols, ten magazines,138 rounds of ammunition recovered from a location close to Line of Control," sources said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-hires-top-lobbying-firm-for-a-us-bailout-from-fatf-grey-list-regional-group-highlights-meagre-progress-334628" hreflang="en">Pakistan hires top lobbying firm for a US bailout from FATF grey list</a>

While the Global Financial Action Task Force (FATF) has begun deliberations on Pakistan`s compliance with international anti-terrorist financing norms, Pakistan continues to support terrorism by abetting the smuggling of weapons across the Line of Control.

It may be recalled that on October 9, alert Indian troops deployed at the neighbouring Keran Sector of North Kashmir had recovered four AK 74 Rifles, eight Magazines and 240 AK Rifle ammunition.

The Indian army has foiled an attempt by Pakistan to smuggle weapons into Jammu and Kashmir, the second attempt in the last five days. According to Army sources, Indian troops deployed at the Tangdhar sector of North Kashmir thwarted an attempt by the Pakistan Army to smuggle weapons from Pakistan occupied Jammu and Kashmir on Monday.

The Indian army has foiled an attempt by Pakistan to smuggle weapons into Jammu and Kashmir, the second attempt in the last five days. According to Army sources, Indian troops deployed at the Tangdhar sector of North Kashmir thwarted an attempt by the Pakistan Army to smuggle weapons from Pakistan occupied Jammu and Kashmir on Monday. At 6:30 pm on Monday, a joint search operation was launched along with Jammu and Kashmir Police, Army sources said."The joint team recovered a bag containing five pistols, ten magazines,138 rounds of ammunition recovered from a location close to Line of Control," sources said. Also read: Pakistan hires top lobbying firm for a US bailout from FATF grey list While the Global Financial Action Task Force (FATF) has begun deliberations on Pakistan`s compliance with international anti-terrorist financing norms, Pakistan continues to support terrorism by abetting the smuggling of weapons across the Line of Control. It may be recalled that on October 9, alert Indian troops deployed at the neighbouring Keran Sector of North Kashmir had recovered four AK 74 Rifles, eight Magazines and 240 AK Rifle ammunition.

Indian Army foils Pak-backed terrorists' bid to smuggle weapons into Jammu and Kashmir

India has reported a spike of&nbsp;55,342 new coronavirus cases in the past 24 hours taking the infection tally to&nbsp;71,75,881.

According to the <a href="https://www.mohfw.gov.in/">data </a>by the Ministry on Health and Family Welfare, deaths from COVID-19 infections rose by 706 to 109,856.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-generated-over-18000-tonnes-covid-19-waste-since-june-maharashtra-biggest-contributor-334686" hreflang="en">India generated over 18,000 tonnes COVID-19 waste since June</a>

There are &nbsp;8,38,729&nbsp;active cases in the country and 6,227,295&nbsp;cured/discharged/migrated cases.&nbsp;

With 2,12,905 active cases, Maharashtra continues to be the worst affected state by COVID-19 in the country.

Meanwhile, according to the Indian Council of Medical Research, a total of 8,89,45,107 samples have been tested in the country for COVID-19 till Monday.

The MoHFW said that the trend of declining average daily cases is being witnessed over the past five weeks."After a month, on October 9, active cases fell below the 9 lakhs mark and have steadily followed a downward slope since," the MoHFW said.&nbsp;

Globally, at least 37,575,650 cases and&nbsp;1,077,849 deaths have been officially registered.

India has reported a spike of 55,342 new coronavirus cases in the past 24 hours taking the infection tally to 71,75,881. According to the data by the Ministry on Health and Family Welfare, deaths from COVID-19 infections rose by 706 to 109,856.

India has reported a spike of 55,342 new coronavirus cases in the past 24 hours taking the infection tally to 71,75,881. According to the data by the Ministry on Health and Family Welfare, deaths from COVID-19 infections rose by 706 to 109,856. Also read: India generated over 18,000 tonnes COVID-19 waste since June There are 8,38,729 active cases in the country and 6,227,295 cured/discharged/migrated cases. With 2,12,905 active cases, Maharashtra continues to be the worst affected state by COVID-19 in the country. Meanwhile, according to the Indian Council of Medical Research, a total of 8,89,45,107 samples have been tested in the country for COVID-19 till Monday. The MoHFW said that the trend of declining average daily cases is being witnessed over the past five weeks."After a month, on October 9, active cases fell below the 9 lakhs mark and have steadily followed a downward slope since," the MoHFW said. Globally, at least 37,575,650 cases and 1,077,849 deaths have been officially registered.

India reports 55,342 new COVID-19 cases; infections rise to 7.18 million

China has given a proposal at 7th Corps Commander-level talks that took place on Monday. The proposal, whose contents are yet to be made public, will be studied at the China study group, a top body which includes NSA Ajit Doval, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, CDS Bipin Rawat and other top Indian officials.

The proposal given at the 6th Corps Commanders meet by China called for disengagement, with India leaving from the south bank of Pangong Lake. This was not agreeable to New Delhi, which rejected it.

Like the 6th Corps Commanders meet, a joint statement was issued by both countries after Monday's talks which called for a "mutually acceptable solution for disengagement as early as possible."

The joint statement, the 3rd between the 2 countries in the last one and a half months, described that Monday's talks were "positive, constructive and had enhanced understanding of each other's positions".

September saw two India, China joint statements, first after the foreign ministers talks in Moscow and then after the 6th Corps Commander-level talks.

The talks at the Line of Actual Control (LAC) lasted for approximately 12 hours, starting at 12 noon and finishing at 11.30 pm.

Both sides in the latest round of talks "agreed to earnestly implement the important understandings reached by the leaders of the two countries" and "not to turn differences into disputes".

While both sides have agreed to "maintain dialogue and communication through military and diplomatic channels", it is not clear if any 8th round of Corps Commanders meet will take place soon.

The India-China standoff began in April after Chinese troops crossed the Line of Actual Control and entered into Ladakh, Indian Territory. Expansionist Beijing has been claiming the Ladakh area as its own territory and objecting to road construction activities in the region by the Indian government.

China has given a proposal at 7th Corps Commander-level talks that took place on Monday. The proposal, whose contents are yet to be made public, will be studied at the China study group, a top body which includes NSA Ajit Doval, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, CDS Bipin Rawat and other top Indian officials.

China has given a proposal at 7th Corps Commander-level talks that took place on Monday. The proposal, whose contents are yet to be made public, will be studied at the China study group, a top body which includes NSA Ajit Doval, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, CDS Bipin Rawat and other top Indian officials. The proposal given at the 6th Corps Commanders meet by China called for disengagement, with India leaving from the south bank of Pangong Lake. This was not agreeable to New Delhi, which rejected it. Like the 6th Corps Commanders meet, a joint statement was issued by both countries after Monday's talks which called for a "mutually acceptable solution for disengagement as early as possible." The joint statement, the 3rd between the 2 countries in the last one and a half months, described that Monday's talks were "positive, constructive and had enhanced understanding of each other's positions". September saw two India, China joint statements, first after the foreign ministers talks in Moscow and then after the 6th Corps Commander-level talks. The talks at the Line of Actual Control (LAC) lasted for approximately 12 hours, starting at 12 noon and finishing at 11.30 pm. Both sides in the latest round of talks "agreed to earnestly implement the important understandings reached by the leaders of the two countries" and "not to turn differences into disputes". While both sides have agreed to "maintain dialogue and communication through military and diplomatic channels", it is not clear if any 8th round of Corps Commanders meet will take place soon. The India-China standoff began in April after Chinese troops crossed the Line of Actual Control and entered into Ladakh, Indian Territory. Expansionist Beijing has been claiming the Ladakh area as its own territory and objecting to road construction activities in the region by the Indian government.

China gives proposal at 7th Corps Commander-level talks with India; both call for mutually acceptable solution

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) assesses that most countries in the world will return to pre-coronavirus pandemic GDP levels by 2020, IMF Chief Economist Gita Gopinath said during a virtual briefing on Tuesday. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-impact-imf-projects-indias-gdp-to-contract-103-in-2020-334996">Also read | Coronavirus impact: IMF projects India’s GDP to contract 10.3% in 2020</a> 
 
"Most countries of the world we are seeing return back to the 2019 (GDP) levels by 2022," Gopinath told reporters. 
 
Watch: IMF sees shallower recession, tough path back to full recovery

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/imf-chief-speaks-on-economic-impact-of-the-coronavirus-pandemic-335007/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

However, Gopinath noted that some regions in the world are expected to take longer to recover because they face different impacts from the novel coronavirus crisis.

"There are some regions in the world where it (the recovery) is projected to take even longer," Gopinath said.

The fund now forecasts world gross domestic product to shrink 4.4% this year, compared with the 5.2% drop seen in June, according to the latest World Economic Outlook released Tuesday. For 2021, the IMF sees growth of 5.2%, down from 5.4%. The report includes revisions to June’s forecasts and other historical data to reflect updated country weightings.

The contraction would still be the deepest since the Great Depression, with Covid-19 having killed more than 1 million people and shut down large swaths of business.

“Recovery is not assured while the pandemic continues to spread," chief economist Gita Gopinath wrote in the report. “Economies everywhere face difficult paths back to pre-pandemic activity levels."

(With inputs from agencies)

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) assesses that most countries in the world will return to pre-coronavirus pandemic GDP levels by 2020, IMF Chief Economist Gita Gopinath said during a virtual briefing on Tuesday.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) assesses that most countries in the world will return to pre-coronavirus pandemic GDP levels by 2020, IMF Chief Economist Gita Gopinath said during a virtual briefing on Tuesday. Also read | Coronavirus impact: IMF projects India’s GDP to contract 10.3% in 2020 "Most countries of the world we are seeing return back to the 2019 (GDP) levels by 2022," Gopinath told reporters. Watch: IMF sees shallower recession, tough path back to full recovery However, Gopinath noted that some regions in the world are expected to take longer to recover because they face different impacts from the novel coronavirus crisis. "There are some regions in the world where it (the recovery) is projected to take even longer," Gopinath said. The fund now forecasts world gross domestic product to shrink 4.4% this year, compared with the 5.2% drop seen in June, according to the latest World Economic Outlook released Tuesday. For 2021, the IMF sees growth of 5.2%, down from 5.4%. The report includes revisions to June’s forecasts and other historical data to reflect updated country weightings. The contraction would still be the deepest since the Great Depression, with Covid-19 having killed more than 1 million people and shut down large swaths of business. “Recovery is not assured while the pandemic continues to spread," chief economist Gita Gopinath wrote in the report. “Economies everywhere face difficult paths back to pre-pandemic activity levels." (With inputs from agencies)

GDP in most countries to recover to pre-pandemic levels by 2022: IMF

Cricketer Mahendra Singh Dhoni's 5-year-old daughter has been receiving rape threats after CSK lost a match to KKR. Palki Sharma Upadhyay asks- Why is our society so misogynistic?

Gravitas: Dhoni's daughter gets rape threats

India and China held the seventh round of Corps Commander-level talks on Monday at Chushul in eastern Ladakh.

The Indian side was represented by outgoing 14 Corps Chief Lt Gen Harinder Singh and his successor Lt Gen PGK Menon.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-ladakh-stand-off-india-china-hold-talks-334841/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

In the seventh round of Corps Commander-level talks, India continued to demand complete disengagement and de-escalation by the People's Liberation Army (PLA) from the eastern Ladakh sector.

"India is expected to demand a discussion on all the friction points between the two sides from the sub-sector north to the central sector and complete disengagement and de-escalation by the Chinese Army from there," government sources had said.

The Chinese side has been demanding that such a mechanism should be discussed first for the new friction points along the northern and southern bank of the Pangong lake but India wants discussion on the entire area.

The Indian side was strict on its demand for completed escalation and disengagement from the area where they have been in a stand-off position for last over five months now.

The situation in eastern Ladakh deteriorated after China unsuccessfully attempted to occupy Indian territory in the southern bank of Pangong lake on the intervening night of August 29 and 30.

India occupied a number of strategic heights on the southern bank of Pangong lake and strengthened its presence in Finger 2 and Finger 3 areas in the region to thwart any Chinese actions. China has been occupying the areas between Finger 4 and Finger 8. The mountain spurs in the area is called Fingers.

China has strongly objected to India's move. However, India has maintained that the heights are on its side of the LAC.

India has also rushed in additional troops and weapons to the sensitive region following China's transgression attempts.

Following China's fresh attempts to change the status quo in the southern bank of Pangong lake, India has further bolstered its military presence in the region.&nbsp;

(with inputs from agencies)

India and China held the seventh round of Corps Commander-level talks on Monday at Chushul in eastern Ladakh. The Indian side was represented by outgoing 14 Corps Chief Lt Gen Harinder Singh and his successor Lt Gen PGK Menon.

India and China held the seventh round of Corps Commander-level talks on Monday at Chushul in eastern Ladakh. The Indian side was represented by outgoing 14 Corps Chief Lt Gen Harinder Singh and his successor Lt Gen PGK Menon. In the seventh round of Corps Commander-level talks, India continued to demand complete disengagement and de-escalation by the People's Liberation Army (PLA) from the eastern Ladakh sector. "India is expected to demand a discussion on all the friction points between the two sides from the sub-sector north to the central sector and complete disengagement and de-escalation by the Chinese Army from there," government sources had said. The Chinese side has been demanding that such a mechanism should be discussed first for the new friction points along the northern and southern bank of the Pangong lake but India wants discussion on the entire area. The Indian side was strict on its demand for completed escalation and disengagement from the area where they have been in a stand-off position for last over five months now. The situation in eastern Ladakh deteriorated after China unsuccessfully attempted to occupy Indian territory in the southern bank of Pangong lake on the intervening night of August 29 and 30. India occupied a number of strategic heights on the southern bank of Pangong lake and strengthened its presence in Finger 2 and Finger 3 areas in the region to thwart any Chinese actions. China has been occupying the areas between Finger 4 and Finger 8. The mountain spurs in the area is called Fingers. China has strongly objected to India's move. However, India has maintained that the heights are on its side of the LAC. India has also rushed in additional troops and weapons to the sensitive region following China's transgression attempts. Following China's fresh attempts to change the status quo in the southern bank of Pangong lake, India has further bolstered its military presence in the region. (with inputs from agencies)

India, China hold seventh round of Corps Commander-level talks

The national capital's air quality was in the very poor category on Tuesday morning, the first time this season, with calm winds and low temperatures allowing accumulation of pollutants.

India: Delhi's air quality hits 'very poor' level, first time this season

The Railways on Tuesday announced that it will operate 392 festival special trains between October 20 and November 30 in view of the upcoming festive season.

The decision was taken as the national carrier is anticipating a passenger rush during the upcoming festive season, the Railway ministry said in a statement.

The special trains will be run for destinations such as Kolkata, Patna, Varanasi, Lucknow among others to cater to the growing demand in the ensuing holiday period of Durga Puja, Dussehra, Diwali and Chhatt puja, it said.

Till now, the railways has pressed into service more than 300 mail/express trains which are now running regularly across the country.

These new festival special trains, however, will operate only till November 30 and will not have a continued run, officials said.

In an order issued on Tuesday, the Railway Board said these festival special trains will be operated at a speed of 55 kmph and the fares applicable will be those of special trains.

The Railways has suspended all its regular services due to the coronavirus pandemic and is operating trains as per demand and necessity.

The Railways on Tuesday announced that it will operate 392 festival special trains between October 20 and November 30 in view of the upcoming festive season. The decision was taken as the national carrier is anticipating a passenger rush during the upcoming festive season, the Railway ministry said in a statement.

The Railways on Tuesday announced that it will operate 392 festival special trains between October 20 and November 30 in view of the upcoming festive season. The decision was taken as the national carrier is anticipating a passenger rush during the upcoming festive season, the Railway ministry said in a statement. The special trains will be run for destinations such as Kolkata, Patna, Varanasi, Lucknow among others to cater to the growing demand in the ensuing holiday period of Durga Puja, Dussehra, Diwali and Chhatt puja, it said. Till now, the railways has pressed into service more than 300 mail/express trains which are now running regularly across the country. These new festival special trains, however, will operate only till November 30 and will not have a continued run, officials said. In an order issued on Tuesday, the Railway Board said these festival special trains will be operated at a speed of 55 kmph and the fares applicable will be those of special trains. The Railways has suspended all its regular services due to the coronavirus pandemic and is operating trains as per demand and necessity.

392 festival special trains to be pressed into service between October 20-November 30: Railways

The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Tuesday said that Beijing doesn’t recognize "Ladakh Union Territory and Arunachal Pradesh."&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-china-appear-to-be-on-a-mission-to-create-disputes-at-borders-rajnath-singh-334727">Also read | Pakistan, China appear to be on a mission to create disputes at borders: Rajnath Singh</a> 
 
The Chinese MFA&nbsp;in a statement said that Ladakh Union Territory is a region “illegally established by India". 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/india-china-standoff-how-indian-air-forces-5th-generation-fighter-jet-will-change-air-equation-in-south-asia-334475">In pictures: How Indian Air Force's 5th generation fighter jet will change air equation in South Asia</a>

Reacting to the inauguration of the 44 bridges by Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh Chinese MFA spokesperson said that China stands against the development of infrastructure facilities aimed at military contention along the border area. Based on the two sides’ consensus, neither should take action that might escalate the situation. That could also undermine efforts to ease the situation.&nbsp;

"For some time, the Indian side has been ramping up infrastructure development along the border and stepping up military deployment that is root cause of the tension between the two sides. China asks the Indian side to earnestly implement the consensus between the two sides and refrain from taking actions that might escalate the situation and take concrete measures to safeguard peace and tranquility along the border," he added.

Yesterday, Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated 44 bridges including two crucial bridges on the strategic 475-km Manali-Leh highway to facilitate the movement of armed forces and logistics in forward areas of Union Territory of Ladakh.

Speaking at the virtual inaugural event, Singh highlighted the ongoing border tensions with Pakistan and China and asserted that the 44 bridges will enable the Indian Armed Forces to quickly move their troops and weapons in a crisis situation.&nbsp;

The 44 major bridges dedicated to the nation were virtually constructed by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) in record time in seven Border States and Union Territories in western, northern and north-eastern India. 
 
Meanwhile, India has been pressing on disengagement with the Chinese for last few months since the Ladakh stand-off began. It is the longest such stand-off between the two countries in recent times. Despite the two joint statements in September on disengagement by the Chinese side no movement has happened.&nbsp;

Instead, as the Air Chief earlier this month said, they are digging in. No demand by China officially and on the face they too have been voicing disengagement. India wants Chinese to leave first, since they came first. Status Quo is something, the Indians won’t like it. 
 
According to the government sources, the Indian Army has occupied six new heights between August 29 and the second week of September. The new hill features being occupied by our troops include the Magar hill, Gurung Hill, Recehen La, Rezang La, Mokhpari and the dominating height over Chinese positions near Finger 4.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Tuesday said that Beijing doesn’t recognize "Ladakh Union Territory and Arunachal Pradesh." Also read | Pakistan, China appear to be on a mission to create disputes at borders: Rajnath Singh The Chinese MFA in a statement said that Ladakh Union Territory is a region “illegally established by India".

The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Tuesday said that Beijing doesn’t recognize "Ladakh Union Territory and Arunachal Pradesh." Also read | Pakistan, China appear to be on a mission to create disputes at borders: Rajnath Singh The Chinese MFA in a statement said that Ladakh Union Territory is a region “illegally established by India". In pictures: How Indian Air Force's 5th generation fighter jet will change air equation in South Asia Reacting to the inauguration of the 44 bridges by Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh Chinese MFA spokesperson said that China stands against the development of infrastructure facilities aimed at military contention along the border area. Based on the two sides’ consensus, neither should take action that might escalate the situation. That could also undermine efforts to ease the situation. "For some time, the Indian side has been ramping up infrastructure development along the border and stepping up military deployment that is root cause of the tension between the two sides. China asks the Indian side to earnestly implement the consensus between the two sides and refrain from taking actions that might escalate the situation and take concrete measures to safeguard peace and tranquility along the border," he added. Yesterday, Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated 44 bridges including two crucial bridges on the strategic 475-km Manali-Leh highway to facilitate the movement of armed forces and logistics in forward areas of Union Territory of Ladakh. Speaking at the virtual inaugural event, Singh highlighted the ongoing border tensions with Pakistan and China and asserted that the 44 bridges will enable the Indian Armed Forces to quickly move their troops and weapons in a crisis situation. The 44 major bridges dedicated to the nation were virtually constructed by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) in record time in seven Border States and Union Territories in western, northern and north-eastern India. Meanwhile, India has been pressing on disengagement with the Chinese for last few months since the Ladakh stand-off began. It is the longest such stand-off between the two countries in recent times. Despite the two joint statements in September on disengagement by the Chinese side no movement has happened. Instead, as the Air Chief earlier this month said, they are digging in. No demand by China officially and on the face they too have been voicing disengagement. India wants Chinese to leave first, since they came first. Status Quo is something, the Indians won’t like it. According to the government sources, the Indian Army has occupied six new heights between August 29 and the second week of September. The new hill features being occupied by our troops include the Magar hill, Gurung Hill, Recehen La, Rezang La, Mokhpari and the dominating height over Chinese positions near Finger 4. (With inputs from agencies)

Beijing doesn’t recognize Ladakh Union Territory and Arunachal Pradesh: Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) on Tuesday projected that Indian economy, severely hit by the coronavirus pandemic shall contract by a massive 10.3 per cent this year.

However, India is likely to bounce back with an impressive 8.8 per cent growth rate in 2021, thus regaining the position of the fastest growing emerging economy, surpassing China's projected growth rate of 8.2 per cent, the IMF said in its latest 'World Economic Outlook' report.

The IMF in its report said that revisions to the forecast are particularly large for India, where Gross Domestic Product (GDP) contracted much more severely than expected in the second quarter.

"As a result, the economy is projected to contract by 10.3 per cent in 2020, before rebounding by 8.8 per cent in 2021," it said. In 2019, India's growth rate was 4.2 per cent.

According to the IMF, India is among those likely to suffer the greatest damage from global warming, reflecting its initially high temperatures. For India, the net gains from climate change mitigation-relative to inaction-would be up to 60-80 per cent of GDP by 2100.

Last week, the World Bank said India's GDP this fiscal is expected to contract by 9.6 per cent.

"India's GDP is expected to contract 9.6 per cent in the fiscal year that started in March," the World Bank said in its latest issue of the South Asia Economic Focus report.

"The situation is much worse in India than we have ever seen before," Hans Timmer, World Bank Chief Economist for South Asia, told reporters during a conference call last week. "It is an exceptional situation in India. A very dire outlook," he said.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Massive injections of government aid kept world economies from plunging further, though growth in 2021 is expected to be slightly slower than forecast in June, according to the Washington-based crisis lender's World Economic Outlook.

Around $3 trillion in stimulus spending kept the United States from a disastrous contraction and growth is expected to decline just 4.3% this year. China will see its economy expand by 1.9%.

Even amid the improved news, countries like India, Spain and Italy will see double digit declines, while Britain just misses that threshold with a 9.8% contraction, the IMF said.

(With inputs from agencies)

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) on Tuesday projected that Indian economy, severely hit by the coronavirus pandemic shall contract by a massive 10.3 per cent this year.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) on Tuesday projected that Indian economy, severely hit by the coronavirus pandemic shall contract by a massive 10.3 per cent this year. However, India is likely to bounce back with an impressive 8.8 per cent growth rate in 2021, thus regaining the position of the fastest growing emerging economy, surpassing China's projected growth rate of 8.2 per cent, the IMF said in its latest 'World Economic Outlook' report. The IMF in its report said that revisions to the forecast are particularly large for India, where Gross Domestic Product (GDP) contracted much more severely than expected in the second quarter. "As a result, the economy is projected to contract by 10.3 per cent in 2020, before rebounding by 8.8 per cent in 2021," it said. In 2019, India's growth rate was 4.2 per cent. According to the IMF, India is among those likely to suffer the greatest damage from global warming, reflecting its initially high temperatures. For India, the net gains from climate change mitigation-relative to inaction-would be up to 60-80 per cent of GDP by 2100. Last week, the World Bank said India's GDP this fiscal is expected to contract by 9.6 per cent. "India's GDP is expected to contract 9.6 per cent in the fiscal year that started in March," the World Bank said in its latest issue of the South Asia Economic Focus report. "The situation is much worse in India than we have ever seen before," Hans Timmer, World Bank Chief Economist for South Asia, told reporters during a conference call last week. "It is an exceptional situation in India. A very dire outlook," he said. Meanwhile, Massive injections of government aid kept world economies from plunging further, though growth in 2021 is expected to be slightly slower than forecast in June, according to the Washington-based crisis lender's World Economic Outlook. Around $3 trillion in stimulus spending kept the United States from a disastrous contraction and growth is expected to decline just 4.3% this year. China will see its economy expand by 1.9%. Even amid the improved news, countries like India, Spain and Italy will see double digit declines, while Britain just misses that threshold with a 9.8% contraction, the IMF said. (With inputs from agencies)

Coronavirus impact: IMF projects India’s GDP to contract 10.3% in 2020

India continues to maintain one of the lowest case fatality rates (CFR) when compared to several nations despite escalating COVID-19 cases.

The country has one of the lowest COVID-19 cases per million, the Union Health Ministry said on Tuesday. The average daily new cases are continuously declining from last five weeks.

"The weekly average of daily new cases fell from 92,830 cases in the 2nd week of September to 70,114 cases in the 2nd week of October," the ministry said.

India is reporting a consistent slide in the new confirmed cases with 55,342 fresh infections being &nbsp;registered in a span of 24 hours in the country.

The new low in daily cases is the result of collaborative action by states and UTs under the Centre's strategy of comprehensive and aggressive testing, prompt tracking and surveillance, hospitalization and adherence to the Standard Treatment Protocol which has ensured a standardised quality of medical care across the public and private hospitals and for home isolation, the ministry said.

While the global figure for COVID-19 cases per million is 4,794, India is clocking 5,199 infections.

The UK (8,893), Russia (8,992), South Africa (11,675), USA (23,072) and Brazil (23,911) are reporting higher numbers of cases per million, the ministry said.

The deaths/million in India are 79, while the world average is 138.

"As far tests for detection of COVID-19 are concerned, India is one of the topmost countries," the ministry highlighted.

"With 10,73,014 tests being conducted on Monday, the cumulative number of tests done so far stand at 8.89 crore (8,89,45,107)."

(With inputs from agencies)

India continues to maintain one of the lowest case fatality rates (CFR) when compared to several nations despite escalating COVID-19 cases. The country has one of the lowest COVID-19 cases per million, the Union Health Ministry said on Tuesday.

India continues to maintain one of the lowest case fatality rates (CFR) when compared to several nations despite escalating COVID-19 cases. The country has one of the lowest COVID-19 cases per million, the Union Health Ministry said on Tuesday. The average daily new cases are continuously declining from last five weeks. "The weekly average of daily new cases fell from 92,830 cases in the 2nd week of September to 70,114 cases in the 2nd week of October," the ministry said. India is reporting a consistent slide in the new confirmed cases with 55,342 fresh infections being registered in a span of 24 hours in the country. The new low in daily cases is the result of collaborative action by states and UTs under the Centre's strategy of comprehensive and aggressive testing, prompt tracking and surveillance, hospitalization and adherence to the Standard Treatment Protocol which has ensured a standardised quality of medical care across the public and private hospitals and for home isolation, the ministry said. While the global figure for COVID-19 cases per million is 4,794, India is clocking 5,199 infections. The UK (8,893), Russia (8,992), South Africa (11,675), USA (23,072) and Brazil (23,911) are reporting higher numbers of cases per million, the ministry said. The deaths/million in India are 79, while the world average is 138. "As far tests for detection of COVID-19 are concerned, India is one of the topmost countries," the ministry highlighted. "With 10,73,014 tests being conducted on Monday, the cumulative number of tests done so far stand at 8.89 crore (8,89,45,107)." (With inputs from agencies)

India’s COVID-19 case fatality rate continues to be low: Ministry

Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan appealed to people on Tuesday to observe COVID-19-appropriate behaviour during the forthcoming festival season and the winter months "when the likelihood of an increase in the disease is high".

Vardhan, who chaired the 21th meeting of the high-level Group of Ministers (GoM) on COVID-19 via video-conference here, said India has the highest COVID-19 recovery rate of 86.78 per cent globally with 62,27,295 recovered cases and the lowest fatality rate at 1.53 per cent, according to a Health Ministry statement.

At the outset, Vardhan expressed deep gratitude and offered salutations to all the COVID-19 warriors who have been steadfastly fighting against the pandemic since many months, the ministry said.

He informed the meeting of the sturdy public health response mounted by India in its fight against the pandemic and the encouraging results so far, it said in the statement.

With 62,27,295 recovered cases, India has the highest recovery rate of 86.78% in the world.

Fatality Rate of 1.53 per cent is the lowest in the world and the doubling time has been successfully raised to 74.9 days in the last three days, he said.

"A total of 1,927 labs at present have led to an upsurge in testing. India's testing capacity has been hiked to 1.5 million tests per day. Close to 11 lakh samples were tested in the last 24 hours," he was quoted as saying in the statement.

"The Prime Minister has launched the countrywide Jan Andolan to encourage people to adopt and encourage COVID-appropriate behaviours to curb spread of the diseases while celebrating the festivals," he stated.

Dr Sujeet K Singh, Director of National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), presented a detailed report on how the data-driven, graded government policies have helped India achieve significant control over the pandemic.

He showed figures related to number of cases, number of deaths, their growth rate and how they compared favourably to the world due to the aforesaid policy interventions, the statement said.

While the overall recovery rate for India is 86.36 per cent, he informed that Dadar and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu have the highest recovery rate of 96.25 pc in India, followed by Andaman and Nicobar Islands (93.98 pc) and Bihar (93.89 pc).

Kerala has the lowest recovery rate of 66.31 pc because of the huge surge in number of cases in the recent days, the statement said.

"Pointing out the pattern of influenza and vector-borne diseases which peak during this season, he noted with concern the less reporting of cases of Influenza due to the COVID-19 pandemic across the country," it said.

He also apprised the ministers of the advisories issued for improving the testing and surveillance activities for seasonal influenza to simultaneously detect it with COVID-19 in view of the upcoming influenza season in the country.

Reiterating Vardhan's concern on the fresh challenge to the containment efforts in view of the upcoming winters and festive season, he stressed on the gradual transition to mitigation in affected cities over the next few weeks and a sustained campaign to instil COVID appropriate behaviour among the people.

Through a detailed presentation, Vinod K Paul of NITI Aayog apprised the GoM of the process of COVID-19 vaccine development in India and around the world.

He presented a comprehensive study on the priority sections of the population that would have initial access to the vaccine drawing upon recommendations of Centre for Disease Control (CDC), USA and the WHO.

He also presented an age-group wise gender composition of COVID death, the percent composition of the vulnerable age-groups in the Indian population and the overlap of known COVID co-morbidities amongst these age-groups, the ministry said in the statement.

"The eVIN network which can track the latest vaccine stock position, temperature at storage facility, geo-tag Health Centres, and maintain facility level dashboard is being repurposed for the delivery of COVID Vaccine.

"He apprised everyone present that the listing of healthcare workers (HCWs)would be complete by the end of October or early November while the task of identifying frontline workers, recalibration of digital platform, logistics of non-vaccine supplies, cold chain augmentation are being carried out as per the detailed implementation plan," the statement said.

Union Health Secretary Rajesh Bhushan noted the importance of keeping up aggressive testing to keep the positivity rate below 5 per cent, the countrywide mortality rate below 1 per cent and the deepening and strengthening of COVID appropriate behaviour among the general population.

He also cautioned the need to observe the trajectory of the disease in key states of Kerala, Karnataka, West Bengal, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh which have recently exhibited a surge in cases, the statement said.

Vardhan at the GoM was joined by Dr S Jaishankar, Minister of External Affairs, and Hardeep S Puri, Minister of Civil Aviation.

Mansukh Lal Mandaviya, Minister of State, Shipping (Independent Charge), Chemicals and Fertilizers; &nbsp;Ashwini Kumar Choubey, Minister of State, Health and &nbsp;Family Welfare and Dr V K Paul &nbsp;Member (Health), NITI Aayog joined virtually, the statement added.

Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan appealed to people on Tuesday to observe COVID-19-appropriate behaviour during the forthcoming festival season and the winter months "when the likelihood of an increase in the disease is high".

Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan appealed to people on Tuesday to observe COVID-19-appropriate behaviour during the forthcoming festival season and the winter months "when the likelihood of an increase in the disease is high". Vardhan, who chaired the 21th meeting of the high-level Group of Ministers (GoM) on COVID-19 via video-conference here, said India has the highest COVID-19 recovery rate of 86.78 per cent globally with 62,27,295 recovered cases and the lowest fatality rate at 1.53 per cent, according to a Health Ministry statement. At the outset, Vardhan expressed deep gratitude and offered salutations to all the COVID-19 warriors who have been steadfastly fighting against the pandemic since many months, the ministry said. He informed the meeting of the sturdy public health response mounted by India in its fight against the pandemic and the encouraging results so far, it said in the statement. With 62,27,295 recovered cases, India has the highest recovery rate of 86.78% in the world. Fatality Rate of 1.53 per cent is the lowest in the world and the doubling time has been successfully raised to 74.9 days in the last three days, he said. "A total of 1,927 labs at present have led to an upsurge in testing. India's testing capacity has been hiked to 1.5 million tests per day. Close to 11 lakh samples were tested in the last 24 hours," he was quoted as saying in the statement. "The Prime Minister has launched the countrywide Jan Andolan to encourage people to adopt and encourage COVID-appropriate behaviours to curb spread of the diseases while celebrating the festivals," he stated. Dr Sujeet K Singh, Director of National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), presented a detailed report on how the data-driven, graded government policies have helped India achieve significant control over the pandemic. He showed figures related to number of cases, number of deaths, their growth rate and how they compared favourably to the world due to the aforesaid policy interventions, the statement said. While the overall recovery rate for India is 86.36 per cent, he informed that Dadar and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu have the highest recovery rate of 96.25 pc in India, followed by Andaman and Nicobar Islands (93.98 pc) and Bihar (93.89 pc). Kerala has the lowest recovery rate of 66.31 pc because of the huge surge in number of cases in the recent days, the statement said. "Pointing out the pattern of influenza and vector-borne diseases which peak during this season, he noted with concern the less reporting of cases of Influenza due to the COVID-19 pandemic across the country," it said. He also apprised the ministers of the advisories issued for improving the testing and surveillance activities for seasonal influenza to simultaneously detect it with COVID-19 in view of the upcoming influenza season in the country. Reiterating Vardhan's concern on the fresh challenge to the containment efforts in view of the upcoming winters and festive season, he stressed on the gradual transition to mitigation in affected cities over the next few weeks and a sustained campaign to instil COVID appropriate behaviour among the people. Through a detailed presentation, Vinod K Paul of NITI Aayog apprised the GoM of the process of COVID-19 vaccine development in India and around the world. He presented a comprehensive study on the priority sections of the population that would have initial access to the vaccine drawing upon recommendations of Centre for Disease Control (CDC), USA and the WHO. He also presented an age-group wise gender composition of COVID death, the percent composition of the vulnerable age-groups in the Indian population and the overlap of known COVID co-morbidities amongst these age-groups, the ministry said in the statement. "The eVIN network which can track the latest vaccine stock position, temperature at storage facility, geo-tag Health Centres, and maintain facility level dashboard is being repurposed for the delivery of COVID Vaccine. "He apprised everyone present that the listing of healthcare workers (HCWs)would be complete by the end of October or early November while the task of identifying frontline workers, recalibration of digital platform, logistics of non-vaccine supplies, cold chain augmentation are being carried out as per the detailed implementation plan," the statement said. Union Health Secretary Rajesh Bhushan noted the importance of keeping up aggressive testing to keep the positivity rate below 5 per cent, the countrywide mortality rate below 1 per cent and the deepening and strengthening of COVID appropriate behaviour among the general population. He also cautioned the need to observe the trajectory of the disease in key states of Kerala, Karnataka, West Bengal, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh which have recently exhibited a surge in cases, the statement said. Vardhan at the GoM was joined by Dr S Jaishankar, Minister of External Affairs, and Hardeep S Puri, Minister of Civil Aviation. Mansukh Lal Mandaviya, Minister of State, Shipping (Independent Charge), Chemicals and Fertilizers; Ashwini Kumar Choubey, Minister of State, Health and Family Welfare and Dr V K Paul Member (Health), NITI Aayog joined virtually, the statement added.

Vardhan stresses on COVID-19-appropriate behaviour during festival season, winter

Parle India, makers of some popular consumer goods including the Parle G biscuits, has announced that they will not advertise their products on Indian news channels that promote aggressive and toxic content.

While speaking to MInt, senior category head of Parle Krishnarao Buddha said that the company will not advertise on news channels which show toxic content or are involved in the alleged TRP scam. 
 
Budhha also revealed that the company is in talks with brands so that they can collectively take a stand and put a restraint on advertising on such channels to send out a clear message.

The decision comes amid reports of certain news channels being accused of projecting 'fake' or 'inflated' TRPS. Last week the Mumbai police reportedly busted a 'fake TRP racket' where the households were reportedly asked to keep a particular news channel switched on the entire day. Two Marathi channels and one national news channel were named in the report submitted by Mumbai Police.

This is not the first time that a known brand has taken a stand against news channels. A few days ago, industrialist Rajiv Bajaj in an interview to channels stated that Bajaj Auto has blacklisted three channels for advertisement purpose.

The move made by Parle was lauded by many on Twitter as #ParleG trended on the social media platform on Monday with many hailing it as a socially responsible brand.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Parle Products has decided not to advertise on news channels that broadcast toxic aggressive content. 
 
These channels are not the kinds that the company wants to put money into as it does not favour its target consumer. 
 
It's time more companies join the lead of Bajaj and Parle. <a href="https://t.co/LNXr9ytmBF">pic.twitter.com/LNXr9ytmBF</a>
— Indian Civil Liberties Union (@ICLU_Ind) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICLU_Ind/status/1315289929992138752?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
And I love <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ParleG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ParleG</a> even more than before along with <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bajaj?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bajaj</a> 👏🏻👏🏻👍🏻👍🏻 
What are others waiting for..?? <a href="https://t.co/BFmDgatpv2">https://t.co/BFmDgatpv2</a>
— Urmila Matondkar (@UrmilaMatondkar) <a href="https://twitter.com/UrmilaMatondkar/status/1315634573863055360?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 12, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Well Done <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ParleG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ParleG</a> 👏🏻 I will enjoy my favorite biscuits even more now😂😀 <a href="https://t.co/Is2plLVyUp">https://t.co/Is2plLVyUp</a>
— Shree Speaks (@StayingReal0511) <a href="https://twitter.com/StayingReal0511/status/1315573331635003392?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 12, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

Parle India, makers of some popular consumer goods including the Parle G biscuits, has announced that they will not advertise their products on Indian news channels that promote aggressive and toxic content.

Parle India, makers of some popular consumer goods including the Parle G biscuits, has announced that they will not advertise their products on Indian news channels that promote aggressive and toxic content. While speaking to MInt, senior category head of Parle Krishnarao Buddha said that the company will not advertise on news channels which show toxic content or are involved in the alleged TRP scam. Budhha also revealed that the company is in talks with brands so that they can collectively take a stand and put a restraint on advertising on such channels to send out a clear message. The decision comes amid reports of certain news channels being accused of projecting 'fake' or 'inflated' TRPS. Last week the Mumbai police reportedly busted a 'fake TRP racket' where the households were reportedly asked to keep a particular news channel switched on the entire day. Two Marathi channels and one national news channel were named in the report submitted by Mumbai Police. This is not the first time that a known brand has taken a stand against news channels. A few days ago, industrialist Rajiv Bajaj in an interview to channels stated that Bajaj Auto has blacklisted three channels for advertisement purpose. The move made by Parle was lauded by many on Twitter as #ParleG trended on the social media platform on Monday with many hailing it as a socially responsible brand. Parle Products has decided not to advertise on news channels that broadcast toxic aggressive content. These channels are not the kinds that the company wants to put money into as it does not favour its target consumer. It's time more companies join the lead of Bajaj and Parle. pic.twitter.com/LNXr9ytmBF — Indian Civil Liberties Union (@ICLU_Ind) October 11, 2020 × And I love #ParleG even more than before along with #Bajaj 👏🏻👏🏻👍🏻👍🏻 What are others waiting for..?? https://t.co/BFmDgatpv2 — Urmila Matondkar (@UrmilaMatondkar) October 12, 2020 × Well Done #ParleG 👏🏻 I will enjoy my favorite biscuits even more now😂😀 https://t.co/Is2plLVyUp — Shree Speaks (@StayingReal0511) October 12, 2020 ×

Twitter hails Parle as the brand announces its decision to not advertise on news channels that show toxic content

Deputy US Secretary of State Stephen Biegun, who is on India visit, has pitched for "vision of Pax Indo-Pacifica", describing it as a "region at peace, protected and made prosperous in equal measure by those who comprise the Indo-Pacific".

He was speaking at India-US forum in New Delhi, along with India's foreign secretary Harsh Shringla.&nbsp;

Biegun said, "Together we stand for a pluralistic vision that will ensure that our countries, and all the region’s diverse countries, can thrive as sovereign and prosperous nations in a free and open Indo-Pacific. One might call this a vision of a Pax Indo-Pacifica."

Pax is a term used in international relations, describing a zone of peace led by major powers. Historical parallels have been Pax Americana, a long period of peace after the end of World War II overseen by US, or Pax Britannica when British were the dominating power after from the end of Napoleonic wars in 1815 in Europe till around World War I.

Biegun also called for strong support for Quad grouping, citing "we have been too cautious..." and in fact, mentioned it 11 times during his speech. 
&nbsp; 
He said, "Quad is a partnership-driven by shared interests, not binding obligations, and is not intended to be an exclusive grouping. Any country that seeks a free and open Indo-Pacific and is willing to take steps to ensure that, should be welcome to work with us."

Quad is a grouping of four countries -- US, India, Australia and Japan, and earlier this month, the foreign ministers of these countries met in Tokyo.&nbsp;

The grouping of "like-minded democratic countries" is seen suspiciously by China, but amid the pandemic, a number of programmes have been implemented to deal with global issues. 
&nbsp; 
"The United States and India represent multi-ethnic, multi-confessional, democratic societies. Together with Japan and Australia, we are four democratic anchors in an Indo-Pacific region buffeted by changing winds and shifting currents," he said.

He added, "We each have our imperfections, of course, and our own histories that steered our democratic paths, but we share values as well as common interests, and together our democracies represent the voices of a nearly a quarter of the world’s population."

In March, Shringla and Biegun, along with other Quad countries, began weekly calls, and this was later joined by other Indo-Pacific counterparts to discuss and coordinate efforts to combat the pandemic.

Biegun's visit comes days before the India US 2+2 ministerial talks between Indian and US defence and foreign ministers.

Deputy US Secretary of State Stephen Biegun, who is on India visit, has pitched for "vision of Pax Indo-Pacifica", describing it as a "region at peace, protected and made prosperous in equal measure by those who comprise the Indo-Pacific".

Deputy US Secretary of State Stephen Biegun, who is on India visit, has pitched for "vision of Pax Indo-Pacifica", describing it as a "region at peace, protected and made prosperous in equal measure by those who comprise the Indo-Pacific". He was speaking at India-US forum in New Delhi, along with India's foreign secretary Harsh Shringla. Biegun said, "Together we stand for a pluralistic vision that will ensure that our countries, and all the region’s diverse countries, can thrive as sovereign and prosperous nations in a free and open Indo-Pacific. One might call this a vision of a Pax Indo-Pacifica." Pax is a term used in international relations, describing a zone of peace led by major powers. Historical parallels have been Pax Americana, a long period of peace after the end of World War II overseen by US, or Pax Britannica when British were the dominating power after from the end of Napoleonic wars in 1815 in Europe till around World War I. Biegun also called for strong support for Quad grouping, citing "we have been too cautious..." and in fact, mentioned it 11 times during his speech. He said, "Quad is a partnership-driven by shared interests, not binding obligations, and is not intended to be an exclusive grouping. Any country that seeks a free and open Indo-Pacific and is willing to take steps to ensure that, should be welcome to work with us." Quad is a grouping of four countries -- US, India, Australia and Japan, and earlier this month, the foreign ministers of these countries met in Tokyo. The grouping of "like-minded democratic countries" is seen suspiciously by China, but amid the pandemic, a number of programmes have been implemented to deal with global issues. "The United States and India represent multi-ethnic, multi-confessional, democratic societies. Together with Japan and Australia, we are four democratic anchors in an Indo-Pacific region buffeted by changing winds and shifting currents," he said. He added, "We each have our imperfections, of course, and our own histories that steered our democratic paths, but we share values as well as common interests, and together our democracies represent the voices of a nearly a quarter of the world’s population." In March, Shringla and Biegun, along with other Quad countries, began weekly calls, and this was later joined by other Indo-Pacific counterparts to discuss and coordinate efforts to combat the pandemic. Biegun's visit comes days before the India US 2+2 ministerial talks between Indian and US defence and foreign ministers.

In Delhi, deputy US secretary of state pitches for Pax Indo-Pacifica

At a time when there is a growing demand for Organic food all over the world, Kashmir Agriculture Department has for the first time introduced a complete organic market in Srinagar.

There has been a boom in the organic food industry and with time it has not just gained popularity but demand is also on the rise. In the coming years, several factors are expected to lead to its growth. In 2017, the government of India projected the domestic organic food market to touch the 1.36 billion US dollar mark by 2020.

The agriculture industry of Kashmir is worth rupees 1600 crores and the growth every year is leading to better changes.&nbsp;With approximately around 50 thousand hectares of land under it, the government says more youth are getting involved in agricultural activities as they find organic farming cost-effective as well as healthy.&nbsp; &nbsp;

"We initiated this program 4 years back for ago for organic vegetables. There is a protocol defined worldwide under which we declare produce organic when cultivation reaches the fourth year which is free from all chemicals, etc," Ajaz Ahndrabi, Director, Agriculture, Kashmir,&nbsp;

The growing use of&nbsp;fertilizers and pesticides on vegetables and fruits has forced people to switch to organic food.&nbsp;The Indian government through various schemes is supporting organic farming in Kashmir.&nbsp;Kashmir has large agricultural and horticultural productions and now the government wants to push for healthy eating.&nbsp;

This retail market is Srinagar offers vegetables to people who have switched to organic foods&nbsp;and it's visible when the sale counters are empty within hours of the sale.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

"People aren't fully aware of organic food, we don't use any chemicals for this. The government has provided us kits of worming composite. My entire village cultivates organic vegetables only," says Irshad Ahmad, an organic vegetable farmer.&nbsp;

Farmers say that this is taking them back to old times when farmers only used green manure instead of chemical-based fertilizers and Pesticides.&nbsp;India exported organic products worth 515 million dollars in the financial year 2017-2018.&nbsp;Now, the farmers are expecting the government to start these markets in every district of Kashmir to promote organic food and&nbsp;healthy eating.

At a time when there is a growing demand for Organic food all over the world, Kashmir Agriculture Department has for the first time introduced a complete organic market in Srinagar.

At a time when there is a growing demand for Organic food all over the world, Kashmir Agriculture Department has for the first time introduced a complete organic market in Srinagar. There has been a boom in the organic food industry and with time it has not just gained popularity but demand is also on the rise. In the coming years, several factors are expected to lead to its growth. In 2017, the government of India projected the domestic organic food market to touch the 1.36 billion US dollar mark by 2020. The agriculture industry of Kashmir is worth rupees 1600 crores and the growth every year is leading to better changes. With approximately around 50 thousand hectares of land under it, the government says more youth are getting involved in agricultural activities as they find organic farming cost-effective as well as healthy. "We initiated this program 4 years back for ago for organic vegetables. There is a protocol defined worldwide under which we declare produce organic when cultivation reaches the fourth year which is free from all chemicals, etc," Ajaz Ahndrabi, Director, Agriculture, Kashmir, The growing use of fertilizers and pesticides on vegetables and fruits has forced people to switch to organic food. The Indian government through various schemes is supporting organic farming in Kashmir. Kashmir has large agricultural and horticultural productions and now the government wants to push for healthy eating. This retail market is Srinagar offers vegetables to people who have switched to organic foods and it's visible when the sale counters are empty within hours of the sale. "People aren't fully aware of organic food, we don't use any chemicals for this. The government has provided us kits of worming composite. My entire village cultivates organic vegetables only," says Irshad Ahmad, an organic vegetable farmer. Farmers say that this is taking them back to old times when farmers only used green manure instead of chemical-based fertilizers and Pesticides. India exported organic products worth 515 million dollars in the financial year 2017-2018. Now, the farmers are expecting the government to start these markets in every district of Kashmir to promote organic food and healthy eating.

Eating healthy: Demand for organic food grows as Kashmir valley gets first organic market

India has signed 250 documents in the field of Space cooperation with 59 countries, these are to advance India’s capabilities and also to help other space-aspiring nations to benefit from space, said ISRO Chairman Dr. K. Sivan.

He added that India’s major cooperation in the space technology field was with Russia, USA, France Japan and Israel, elaborating on the ongoing and future projects. The Chairman of India’s space agency was speaking at the plenary session of the International Austronautical Congress (IAC) 2020.&nbsp;

Elaborating on the work with foreign space agencies, Sivan said that partnerships ranged from cooperation in human spaceflight to planetary exploration and joint experiments.&nbsp;

''We have a NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar NISAR satellite, we are also working with United States Geological Survey(USGS) for sharing of satellite data. France is a major partner and we have launched two joint satellites Megha tropiques and Saral and the retired mission is underway. ISRO is partnering with Japanese space agency JAXA to build joint Lunar polar exploration mission. Our cooperation with German Agency DLR is on robotics and Artificial Intelligence.In the field of electric propulsion system and deep space network antenna support we are working with Israeli Space Agency (ISA),''&nbsp;he stated.&nbsp;

When asked about the upcoming rocket launches this year, Dr. Sivan said that the agency is planning for the launch of PSLV rocket in November. This would also be the maiden launch of this year, as ISRO’s launches were affected after Covid-19 lockdown measures had brought in several travel restrictions. Given that India’s space activities are spread across centers in various parts of the country, it had become challenging for officials and scientists to travel to carry out work.&nbsp;

“For India’s Space port, people have to travel from other ISRO facilities located far away to carry out the work, hence there are some delays in the missions. We are planning to have the PSLV C-49 launch in November first week. Subsequently, all missions will be as planned” he said.

According to Sivan, India’s Human Spaceflight programme has been going strong, with astronauts being trained by Russia and critical medical&nbsp;&nbsp;technologies being provided by France. However, he said that owing to Covid-19 the Gaganyaan project would see a small shift. “We had initially targeted an August 2022 launch and there is a small shift in targeting. We are trying to take the help of other space-faring nations for getting things done” he said.&nbsp;

In his Independence Day speech in 2018, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had said that when the country is celebrating its 75th year of Independence in 2022, an Indian son or daughter will be flying into space as a part of the Gaganyaan Human Spaceflight mission. This is India's most ambitious and challenging mission yet.

Adding that International cooperation was hallmark of Indian space programme, Sivan, who also serves as Secretary, Department of Space said that ISRO had imparted a 2-month long hands-on training in nano satellite building for 60 officials from 33 countries.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

India has signed 250 documents in the field of Space cooperation with 59 countries, these are to advance India’s capabilities and also to help other space-aspiring nations to benefit from space, said ISRO Chairman Dr.

India has signed 250 documents in the field of Space cooperation with 59 countries, these are to advance India’s capabilities and also to help other space-aspiring nations to benefit from space, said ISRO Chairman Dr. K. Sivan. He added that India’s major cooperation in the space technology field was with Russia, USA, France Japan and Israel, elaborating on the ongoing and future projects. The Chairman of India’s space agency was speaking at the plenary session of the International Austronautical Congress (IAC) 2020. Elaborating on the work with foreign space agencies, Sivan said that partnerships ranged from cooperation in human spaceflight to planetary exploration and joint experiments. ''We have a NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar NISAR satellite, we are also working with United States Geological Survey(USGS) for sharing of satellite data. France is a major partner and we have launched two joint satellites Megha tropiques and Saral and the retired mission is underway. ISRO is partnering with Japanese space agency JAXA to build joint Lunar polar exploration mission. Our cooperation with German Agency DLR is on robotics and Artificial Intelligence.In the field of electric propulsion system and deep space network antenna support we are working with Israeli Space Agency (ISA),'' he stated. When asked about the upcoming rocket launches this year, Dr. Sivan said that the agency is planning for the launch of PSLV rocket in November. This would also be the maiden launch of this year, as ISRO’s launches were affected after Covid-19 lockdown measures had brought in several travel restrictions. Given that India’s space activities are spread across centers in various parts of the country, it had become challenging for officials and scientists to travel to carry out work. “For India’s Space port, people have to travel from other ISRO facilities located far away to carry out the work, hence there are some delays in the missions. We are planning to have the PSLV C-49 launch in November first week. Subsequently, all missions will be as planned” he said. According to Sivan, India’s Human Spaceflight programme has been going strong, with astronauts being trained by Russia and critical medical technologies being provided by France. However, he said that owing to Covid-19 the Gaganyaan project would see a small shift. “We had initially targeted an August 2022 launch and there is a small shift in targeting. We are trying to take the help of other space-faring nations for getting things done” he said. In his Independence Day speech in 2018, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had said that when the country is celebrating its 75th year of Independence in 2022, an Indian son or daughter will be flying into space as a part of the Gaganyaan Human Spaceflight mission. This is India's most ambitious and challenging mission yet. Adding that International cooperation was hallmark of Indian space programme, Sivan, who also serves as Secretary, Department of Space said that ISRO had imparted a 2-month long hands-on training in nano satellite building for 60 officials from 33 countries.

Going strong, but small shift in Gaganyaan launch target owing to COVID-19, says ISRO chairman

The national capital's air quality was in the very poor category on Tuesday morning, the first time this season, with calm winds and low temperatures allowing accumulation of pollutants.

According to the Ministry of Earth Sciences'Air Quality Early Warning System for Delhi, an increase in farm fires in Punjab, Haryana and neighbouring regions of Pakistan is also going to impact the air quality in Delhi-NCR.

The city recorded an air quality index (AQI) of 304 at 9:30 am, which falls in the 'very poor'&nbsp;category. The 24-hour average AQI was 261 on Monday, the worst since February. It was 216 on Sunday and 221 on Saturday.

Wazirpur (AQI 380), Vivek Vihar (AQI 355) and Jahangirpuri (AQI 349) recorded the highest pollution levels.

An AQI between 0 and 50 is considered 'good', 51 and 100 'satisfactory', 101 and 200 'moderate', 201 and 300 'poor', 301 and 400 'very poor', and 401 and 500 'severe'.

A senior scientist at the Delhi Pollution Control Committee said the dip in the air quality can be attributed to low wind speed and temperatures which allowed accumulation of pollutants.

''Stubble burning has also increased in neighbouring states. Also, the ventilation index is low,''&nbsp;he said.

Ventilation index is the speed at which pollutants can get dispersed. A ventilation index lower than 6000 sqm/second, with average wind speed less than 10 kmph, is unfavourable for dispersion of pollutants.

PM10 levels in Delhi-NCR stood at 300 microgram per cubic meter (g/m3) at 9 am -- the highest this season so far, according to CPCB data. PM10 levels below 100 ?g/m3 are considered safe in India.

PM10 is particulate matter with a diameter of 10 micrometers and is inhalable into the lungs. These particles include dust, pollen and mold spores.?

The levels of PM2.5 ? finer particles which can even enter the bloodstream&nbsp;were 129 g/m3. PM2.5 levels up to 60 ?g/m3 are considered safe.

NASA's satellite imagery showed a large cluster of fires near Amritsar and Firozpur in Punjab and Patiala, Ambala and Kaithal in Haryana.

According to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research, farm fires contributed 3 percent particulate matter to Delhi's PM2.5 concentration on Monday.

It is likely to be 'negligible? for the next two days due to a change in the?wind direction from northwesterly to southeasterly, the government agency said.

On Tuesday morning, the maximum wind speed was 4 kilometers per hour, according to the India Meteorological Department.

Low temperatures and stagnant winds help in accumulation of pollutants near the ground, affecting air&nbsp;quality.

With Delhi-NCR bracing for months of poor air&nbsp;quality, experts have warned that high levels of air pollution can aggravate the COVID-19 pandemic.

Severe airpollution in Delhi is a year-round problem, which can be attributed to unfavourable meteorological conditions, farm fires in neighbouring regions and local sources of pollution.

According to an analysis by the Council on Energy, Environment and Water, a Delhi-based think tank, transportation contributes the most -- 18 to 39 percent -- to Delhi's air pollution.

Road dust is the second largest source of?air?pollution in the city (18 to 38 percent), followed by industries (2 to 29 percent), thermal power plants (3 to 11 percent) and construction (8 percent).

This year, the Delhi government has launched a massive anti-air pollution campaign 'Yuddh Pradushan Ke Viruddh' which is being led by Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and Environment Minister Gopal Rai.

A 'green war room'&nbsp;with a 10-member expert team has been set up at the Delhi Secretariat to monitor the steps being taken to deal with high levels of air pollution in winters.

The environment department has also taken stern action against project proponents at large construction and demolition sites flouting dust control norms.

The government will also start the spraying of 'Pusa bio-decomposer'&nbsp;solution in non-basmati rice fields in the national capital, on Tuesday.

The solution, experts say, can turn the stubble into manure in 15 to 20 days and therefore, can prevent stubble burning.

Starting October 15, stricter measures to fight air&nbsp;pollution will also come into force in Delhi and its neighbourhood as part of the Graded Response Action Plan, which was first implemented in Delhi-NCR in 2017.

The national capital's air quality was in the very poor category on Tuesday morning, the first time this season, with calm winds and low temperatures allowing accumulation of pollutants. According to the Ministry of Earth Sciences'Air Quality Early Warning System for Delhi, an increase in farm fires in Punjab, Haryana and neighbouring regions of Pakistan is also going to impact the air quality in Delhi-NCR. The city recorded an air quality index (AQI) of 304 at 9:30 am, which falls in the 'very poor' category. The 24-hour average AQI was 261 on Monday, the worst since February. It was 216 on Sunday and 221 on Saturday. Wazirpur (AQI 380), Vivek Vihar (AQI 355) and Jahangirpuri (AQI 349) recorded the highest pollution levels. An AQI between 0 and 50 is considered 'good', 51 and 100 'satisfactory', 101 and 200 'moderate', 201 and 300 'poor', 301 and 400 'very poor', and 401 and 500 'severe'. A senior scientist at the Delhi Pollution Control Committee said the dip in the air quality can be attributed to low wind speed and temperatures which allowed accumulation of pollutants. ''Stubble burning has also increased in neighbouring states. Also, the ventilation index is low,'' he said. Ventilation index is the speed at which pollutants can get dispersed. A ventilation index lower than 6000 sqm/second, with average wind speed less than 10 kmph, is unfavourable for dispersion of pollutants. PM10 levels in Delhi-NCR stood at 300 microgram per cubic meter (g/m3) at 9 am -- the highest this season so far, according to CPCB data. PM10 levels below 100 ?g/m3 are considered safe in India. PM10 is particulate matter with a diameter of 10 micrometers and is inhalable into the lungs. These particles include dust, pollen and mold spores.? The levels of PM2.5 ? finer particles which can even enter the bloodstream were 129 g/m3. PM2.5 levels up to 60 ?g/m3 are considered safe. NASA's satellite imagery showed a large cluster of fires near Amritsar and Firozpur in Punjab and Patiala, Ambala and Kaithal in Haryana. According to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research, farm fires contributed 3 percent particulate matter to Delhi's PM2.5 concentration on Monday. It is likely to be 'negligible? for the next two days due to a change in the?wind direction from northwesterly to southeasterly, the government agency said. On Tuesday morning, the maximum wind speed was 4 kilometers per hour, according to the India Meteorological Department. Low temperatures and stagnant winds help in accumulation of pollutants near the ground, affecting air quality. With Delhi-NCR bracing for months of poor air quality, experts have warned that high levels of air pollution can aggravate the COVID-19 pandemic. Severe airpollution in Delhi is a year-round problem, which can be attributed to unfavourable meteorological conditions, farm fires in neighbouring regions and local sources of pollution. According to an analysis by the Council on Energy, Environment and Water, a Delhi-based think tank, transportation contributes the most -- 18 to 39 percent -- to Delhi's air pollution. Road dust is the second largest source of?air?pollution in the city (18 to 38 percent), followed by industries (2 to 29 percent), thermal power plants (3 to 11 percent) and construction (8 percent). This year, the Delhi government has launched a massive anti-air pollution campaign 'Yuddh Pradushan Ke Viruddh' which is being led by Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and Environment Minister Gopal Rai. A 'green war room' with a 10-member expert team has been set up at the Delhi Secretariat to monitor the steps being taken to deal with high levels of air pollution in winters. The environment department has also taken stern action against project proponents at large construction and demolition sites flouting dust control norms. The government will also start the spraying of 'Pusa bio-decomposer' solution in non-basmati rice fields in the national capital, on Tuesday. The solution, experts say, can turn the stubble into manure in 15 to 20 days and therefore, can prevent stubble burning. Starting October 15, stricter measures to fight air pollution will also come into force in Delhi and its neighbourhood as part of the Graded Response Action Plan, which was first implemented in Delhi-NCR in 2017.

Delhi's air quality hits 'very poor' level, first time this season

india-news

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

india news