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US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo supported India on its ongoing standoff with China, saying Beijing has deployed 60,000 soldiers in the border with India.

Pompeo said New Delhi "absolutely need the United States to be their ally and partner in this fight".&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/time-to-accept-talks-wont-make-china-change-aggressive-stance-us-nsa-334239">‘Time to accept talks won’t make China change aggressive stance’: US NSA</a>

"They’ve stacked 60,000 soldiers against the Indians in the north," in an interview to Fox News.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-am-sorry-taiwanese-detained-in-china-confesses-on-state-tv-334533">'I am sorry': Taiwanese detained in China confesses on state TV</a>

The secretary of state's comments came after the Quad nations: India, Japan, Australia and the US met on Tuesday in Tokyo where they supported a rules-based Indo-Pacific region, sending an indirect message to China over its expansionist attempts.&nbsp;

"I was with my foreign minister counterparts from India, Australia, and Japan… four big democracies, four powerful economies, four nations, each of whom has real risk associated with the threats attempting to be imposed by the Chinese Communist Party. And they see it in their home countries too," Pompeo said on The Guy Benson Show, as quoted by The Indian Express.&nbsp;

"But they’ve all seen it, whether it’s the Indians, who are actually having a physical confrontation with the Chinese up in the Himalayas in the northeastern part of India, the Chinese have now begun to amass huge forces against India in the north."

He also said the Quad members are working on a set of policies to resist the threats each of these nations face from Beijing.&nbsp;

"(India) absolutely need the United States to be their ally and partner in this fight," he added.

Pompeo said the the "tide has turned" and under Trump's leadership a coalition is established that "will push back against the threat and maintain good order, the rule of law, and the basic civic decency that comes from democracies controlling the world and not authoritarian regimes".

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo supported India on its ongoing standoff with China, saying Beijing has deployed 60,000 soldiers in the border with India. Pompeo said New Delhi "absolutely need the United States to be their ally and partner in this fight".

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo supported India on its ongoing standoff with China, saying Beijing has deployed 60,000 soldiers in the border with India. Pompeo said New Delhi "absolutely need the United States to be their ally and partner in this fight". Also read | ‘Time to accept talks won’t make China change aggressive stance’: US NSA "They’ve stacked 60,000 soldiers against the Indians in the north," in an interview to Fox News. Also read | 'I am sorry': Taiwanese detained in China confesses on state TV The secretary of state's comments came after the Quad nations: India, Japan, Australia and the US met on Tuesday in Tokyo where they supported a rules-based Indo-Pacific region, sending an indirect message to China over its expansionist attempts. "I was with my foreign minister counterparts from India, Australia, and Japan… four big democracies, four powerful economies, four nations, each of whom has real risk associated with the threats attempting to be imposed by the Chinese Communist Party. And they see it in their home countries too," Pompeo said on The Guy Benson Show, as quoted by The Indian Express. "But they’ve all seen it, whether it’s the Indians, who are actually having a physical confrontation with the Chinese up in the Himalayas in the northeastern part of India, the Chinese have now begun to amass huge forces against India in the north." He also said the Quad members are working on a set of policies to resist the threats each of these nations face from Beijing. "(India) absolutely need the United States to be their ally and partner in this fight," he added. Pompeo said the the "tide has turned" and under Trump's leadership a coalition is established that "will push back against the threat and maintain good order, the rule of law, and the basic civic decency that comes from democracies controlling the world and not authoritarian regimes".

Mike Pompeo lashes out at China, says nation deployed 60,000 soldiers at border with India

India on Monday reported 66,732 new coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours, taking the total infections to 7,120,538, data from the health ministry showed.&nbsp;

According to the data by the Ministry on Health and Family Welfare, 816 deaths were reported in the last 24 hours, bringing the death toll to 109,150.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fauci-says-trump-campaign-ad-twisted-his-words-on-coronavirus-334558">Fauci says Trump campaign ad twisted his words on coronavirus</a>

For the past many days, daily coronavirus cases and fatalities are on a decline in the country and the government on Sunday announced that the nation crossed 6 million recoveries, which it described as a "landmark milestone".&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-could-see-15000-covid-19-cases-daily-report-333877">Delhi could see 15,000 Covid-19 cases daily: Report</a>

There are &nbsp;8,61,853 active cases in the country and 6,149,535 cured/discharged/migrated cases.&nbsp;

Globally, there are 37,297,350 Covid-19 cases, out of which 25,763,900 are considered recovered, according to a tally compiled by news agency AFP.&nbsp;

The United States is the worst-affected country both in terms of deaths and infections with 7,694,865 cases and 213,614 fatalities. India has third-highest death toll and second-highest infections.

Brazil has confirmed 150,198 deaths, which is the second-most globally.&nbsp;

Mexico ranks fourth in the overall Covid-19 deaths and infections with 83,642 deaths from 814,328 cases and is followed by the United Kingdom with 42,760 fatalities and 590,844 cases.

Meanwhile, the widely available BCG tuberculosis vaccine will be tested for its efficacy against novel coronavirus on frontline care workers in Britain.

India on Monday reported 66,732 new coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours, taking the total infections to 7,120,538, data from the health ministry showed. According to the data by the Ministry on Health and Family Welfare, 816 deaths were reported in the last 24 hours, bringing the death toll to 109,150.

India on Monday reported 66,732 new coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours, taking the total infections to 7,120,538, data from the health ministry showed. According to the data by the Ministry on Health and Family Welfare, 816 deaths were reported in the last 24 hours, bringing the death toll to 109,150. Also read | Fauci says Trump campaign ad twisted his words on coronavirus For the past many days, daily coronavirus cases and fatalities are on a decline in the country and the government on Sunday announced that the nation crossed 6 million recoveries, which it described as a "landmark milestone". Also read | Delhi could see 15,000 Covid-19 cases daily: Report There are 8,61,853 active cases in the country and 6,149,535 cured/discharged/migrated cases. Globally, there are 37,297,350 Covid-19 cases, out of which 25,763,900 are considered recovered, according to a tally compiled by news agency AFP. The United States is the worst-affected country both in terms of deaths and infections with 7,694,865 cases and 213,614 fatalities. India has third-highest death toll and second-highest infections. Brazil has confirmed 150,198 deaths, which is the second-most globally. Mexico ranks fourth in the overall Covid-19 deaths and infections with 83,642 deaths from 814,328 cases and is followed by the United Kingdom with 42,760 fatalities and 590,844 cases. Meanwhile, the widely available BCG tuberculosis vaccine will be tested for its efficacy against novel coronavirus on frontline care workers in Britain.

India adds 66,732 new coronavirus cases; death toll rises to 109,150

The Supreme Court Monday allowed National Testing Agency to conduct second round of the NEET (UG) for the COVID-19 affected students and those in containment zones on October 14.

A bench headed by Chief Justice S A Bobde passed the order after Solicitor General Tushar Mehta sought the top court's nod in the issue citing special circumstances due to the coronavirus pandemic.

''In view of the circumstances which have necessitated postponement of the examination in the past and in view of the prevailing circumstances, we consider it appropriate to grant permission to the National Testing Agency to conduct a second part of the NEET (UG) 2019 for the COVID affected students and for those in containment zones on October 14, 2020,''&nbsp;the bench said.

The bench, also comprising Justices A S Bopanna and V Ramasubramanian,said the result may be declared on October 16, 2020.

The crucial National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET), which is a pen and paper based test unlike engineering entrance exam JEE, was held on September 13 after being deferred twice in view of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The exam was originally scheduled for May 3, but was pushed to July 26, and then to September 13.

The apex court had earlier dismissed a plea seeking postponement of JEE (Main) April 2020 and NEET-Undergraduate examinations, which are scheduled to be conducted in September, amid spurt in number of COVID-19 cases, saying precious year of students "cannot be wasted" and life has to go on.

The top court had said career of students "cannot be put under jeopardy for long".

Later, the apex court had dismissed a review plea of ministers of six opposition-ruled states seeking review of its August 17 order allowing holding of NEET and JEE exams physically.

The ministers had claimed that the top court order failed to secure students'' "right to life" and ignored "teething logistical difficulties" to be faced in conducting the exams during the pandemic.

The Supreme Court Monday allowed National Testing Agency to conduct second round of the NEET (UG) for the COVID-19 affected students and those in containment zones on October 14.

The Supreme Court Monday allowed National Testing Agency to conduct second round of the NEET (UG) for the COVID-19 affected students and those in containment zones on October 14. A bench headed by Chief Justice S A Bobde passed the order after Solicitor General Tushar Mehta sought the top court's nod in the issue citing special circumstances due to the coronavirus pandemic. ''In view of the circumstances which have necessitated postponement of the examination in the past and in view of the prevailing circumstances, we consider it appropriate to grant permission to the National Testing Agency to conduct a second part of the NEET (UG) 2019 for the COVID affected students and for those in containment zones on October 14, 2020,'' the bench said. The bench, also comprising Justices A S Bopanna and V Ramasubramanian,said the result may be declared on October 16, 2020. The crucial National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET), which is a pen and paper based test unlike engineering entrance exam JEE, was held on September 13 after being deferred twice in view of the COVID-19 pandemic. The exam was originally scheduled for May 3, but was pushed to July 26, and then to September 13. The apex court had earlier dismissed a plea seeking postponement of JEE (Main) April 2020 and NEET-Undergraduate examinations, which are scheduled to be conducted in September, amid spurt in number of COVID-19 cases, saying precious year of students "cannot be wasted" and life has to go on. The top court had said career of students "cannot be put under jeopardy for long". Later, the apex court had dismissed a review plea of ministers of six opposition-ruled states seeking review of its August 17 order allowing holding of NEET and JEE exams physically. The ministers had claimed that the top court order failed to secure students'' "right to life" and ignored "teething logistical difficulties" to be faced in conducting the exams during the pandemic.

SC allows NTA to conduct second round of NEET exams on October 14

New Delhi: Almost around a month after 7 Indians were kidnapped in Libya, they were freed on Sunday. Indian envoy to Tunisia Puneet Roy Kundal played a key role in negotiations, leading to the release of the Indian nationals. The negotiations were complex given the fact 2 parallel governments were involved.&nbsp;

India does not have a working mission in Libya and to tackle the current situation, an Indian mission in neighbouring Tunisia is dealing with the affairs.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/protesters-set-government-building-on-fire-in-eastern-libya-327232">Protesters set government building on fire in eastern Libya</a>

The Indians are currently in Brega town, which is the centre of the country's second-largest hydrocarbon complex. They hail from the states of Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Gujarat and Uttar Pradesh and were kidnapped at a place called Asshwerif in Libya on September 14. They were working at a construction and oil field supplies company and were kidnapped on their way to the Tripoli airport to catch a flight to India.

For local coordination, Tabassum Mansoor, Principal of Indian International School, Benghazi was appointed by the Indian Embassy in Tunisia. Mansoor who has been living in Libya for last 40 years, on the instructions of the Indian Envoy Kundal was in constant touch with all the Libyan authorities especially the company manager and other key players almost on a daily basis.&nbsp;

India in September 2015 issued a travel advisory for Indian nationals to avoid travelling to Libya in view of the security situation there. Later, in May 2016, the government imposed a complete travel ban irrespective of the purpose in view of the deteriorating security situation. The travel ban remains in force.

 
&nbsp;

New Delhi: Almost around a month after 7 Indians were kidnapped in Libya, they were freed on Sunday. Indian envoy to Tunisia Puneet Roy Kundal played a key role in negotiations, leading to the release of the Indian nationals.

New Delhi: Almost around a month after 7 Indians were kidnapped in Libya, they were freed on Sunday. Indian envoy to Tunisia Puneet Roy Kundal played a key role in negotiations, leading to the release of the Indian nationals. The negotiations were complex given the fact 2 parallel governments were involved. India does not have a working mission in Libya and to tackle the current situation, an Indian mission in neighbouring Tunisia is dealing with the affairs. Also read | Protesters set government building on fire in eastern Libya The Indians are currently in Brega town, which is the centre of the country's second-largest hydrocarbon complex. They hail from the states of Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Gujarat and Uttar Pradesh and were kidnapped at a place called Asshwerif in Libya on September 14. They were working at a construction and oil field supplies company and were kidnapped on their way to the Tripoli airport to catch a flight to India. For local coordination, Tabassum Mansoor, Principal of Indian International School, Benghazi was appointed by the Indian Embassy in Tunisia. Mansoor who has been living in Libya for last 40 years, on the instructions of the Indian Envoy Kundal was in constant touch with all the Libyan authorities especially the company manager and other key players almost on a daily basis. India in September 2015 issued a travel advisory for Indian nationals to avoid travelling to Libya in view of the security situation there. Later, in May 2016, the government imposed a complete travel ban irrespective of the purpose in view of the deteriorating security situation. The travel ban remains in force.

Kidnapped in September, 7 Indian hostages in Libya freed

Real estate developers on Friday welcomed the RBI's decision to lower risk weightage on housing loans, saying it would boost credit flow to the sector, but demanded that more steps should be taken to revive the industry.

The RBI decided to rationalise the risk weights by linking them only with LTV (Loan to Value) ratios for all new housing loans sanctioned up to March 31, 2022. With lowering of risk weightage, the requirement of capital provision for banks will come down.

Commenting on the monetary policy, CREDAI National President Satish Magar said linking of housing loans to LTV would boost housing demand.

The move to extend co-lending scheme to non-banking financial companies (NBFCs) and housing finance companies (HFCs) may infuse additional liquidity, he said, but added that realty sector might not get benefit due to strict due diligence norms and eligibility criteria.

"Now that RBI has recognized realty sector as the largest employer, it should also announce steps that are imperative and crucial for the sector's survival and then introduce measures that will aid the sector's revival," Magar said.

He sought that all loan accounts that were SMA 1 &amp; SMA 2 as on March 1, 2020 should be made eligible for restructuring.

Naredco President Niranjan Hiranandani said the RBI's decision to rationalise the risk weights on home loans and link them to LTV ratios will give a boost to the sector.

"Particularly this step would benefit borrowers of higher value loans. It would ensure that more credit is available to borrowers. This move is a much appreciated step recognising the role of the real estate sector in generating employment and economic activity," he added.

Anshuman Magazine, Chairman &amp; CEO - CBRE India, South East Asia, Middle East &amp; Africa, said, "RBI's decisions to relax LTV guidelines and rationalize risk weights for home loans will further encourage homebuyers."

Anarock Chairman Anuj Puri said the announcement will definitely encourage banks to lend more to individual homebuyers without feeling the stress on their balance sheets.

PropTiger and Housing.com CEO Dhruv Agarwala said it will effectively result in higher credit flow to the real estate sector.

Square Yards CEO Tanuj Shori said, "The linking of risk weightage only to LTV ratio vis-a-vis the earlier practice of risk weightage with both pricing and LTV augurs well for the sector, particularly for high end properties which have been facing severe downward demand pressures."

Welcoming the move, Hardayal Prasad, MD &amp; CEO, PNB Housing Finance said rationalising the risk weights for all new housing loans until March 31, 2022 and the relaxation extended for LTV, shall give the much needed impetus to the housing sector.

"At the same time, home loans will become accessible and competitive for the customers. This move by the central bank addresses the urgency required to boost the real estate sector in the country. This will also lead to the desired recovery of the construction sector which has a very important role to play in creating employment and growth," Prasad said.

JLL India CEO and Country Head Ramesh Nair termed the move as timely and a step in the right direction and said this would provide a fillip to housing loans and have a positive impact on the residential sector.

Knight Frank India CMD Shishir Baijal said the measures like rationalisation of risk weights to all new housing loans until March 2022 would give a fillip to housing loan growth.

The RBI has extended the scheme for co-lending to all NBFCs and HFCs which will ease credit availability for the real estate sector, he added.

Meanwhile, Siddhartha Mohanty, MD &amp; CEO of LIC HFL said that in recognition of the role of the real estate sector in generating employment and economic activity, it has been rightly decided to rationalise the risk weights and link them to LTV ratios for all new housing loans sanctioned up to March 31, 2022.

Savills India CEO Anurag Mathur said the rationalisation of risk weight of housing loans is a welcome step by the RBI that could potentially boost housing demand.

"With this move, housing loans would eventually get more affordable, thereby benefiting the homebuyers in this sluggish market," he added.

Emami Realty MD &amp; CEO Nitesh Kumar said the RBI's move on housing loans willl boost credit sentiments and bring much needed positivity in the sector.

Sunteck Realty CMD Kamal Khetan said homebuyers across all price points will be able to access more capital with ease.

Additionally, it would help lenders on capital adequacy front and enable them to provide more loans, he added.

Gaurs Group MD Manoj Gaur said the lowering of risk weightage on home loans and linking it to LTV only will ensure more credit to customers and thereby to the sector.

Signature Global Chairman Pradeep Aggarwal said the loan on LTV will be helpful for real estate sector.

S Raheja Realty Director Ram Raheja said it will provide the much-needed boost and encouragement to home buyers ahead of this festive season.

Honeyy Katiyal, founder, Investors Clinic said the announcement by the RBI to extend the scheme for co-lending to all NBFCs and HFCs will help ease credit availability.

"The move by RBI to link risks to loan to value will help banks shred the cautious lending approach.

The move is bound to offer a much needed jump start to lending and liquidity cycle in the marketplace," said Kaushal Agarwal, Chairman, The Guardians Real Estate Advisory.

The RBI's stand to rationalise risk weightage on home loans is a step in the right direction and homebuyers will benefit immensely from this move, said Ankush kaul, President (Sales &amp; Marketing) - Ambience Group.

Jyoti Prakash Gadia, Managing Director, Resurgent India said retail credit and real estate shall also get a fillip with regulatory relaxations announced with an increase in the limit to Rs 7.50 crore for retail credit and rationalisation of risk weight linked to loan value for housing loan, respectively.

Real estate developers on Friday welcomed the RBI's decision to lower risk weightage on housing loans, saying it would boost credit flow to the sector, but demanded that more steps should be taken to revive the industry.

Real estate developers on Friday welcomed the RBI's decision to lower risk weightage on housing loans, saying it would boost credit flow to the sector, but demanded that more steps should be taken to revive the industry. The RBI decided to rationalise the risk weights by linking them only with LTV (Loan to Value) ratios for all new housing loans sanctioned up to March 31, 2022. With lowering of risk weightage, the requirement of capital provision for banks will come down. Commenting on the monetary policy, CREDAI National President Satish Magar said linking of housing loans to LTV would boost housing demand. The move to extend co-lending scheme to non-banking financial companies (NBFCs) and housing finance companies (HFCs) may infuse additional liquidity, he said, but added that realty sector might not get benefit due to strict due diligence norms and eligibility criteria. "Now that RBI has recognized realty sector as the largest employer, it should also announce steps that are imperative and crucial for the sector's survival and then introduce measures that will aid the sector's revival," Magar said. He sought that all loan accounts that were SMA 1 & SMA 2 as on March 1, 2020 should be made eligible for restructuring. Naredco President Niranjan Hiranandani said the RBI's decision to rationalise the risk weights on home loans and link them to LTV ratios will give a boost to the sector. "Particularly this step would benefit borrowers of higher value loans. It would ensure that more credit is available to borrowers. This move is a much appreciated step recognising the role of the real estate sector in generating employment and economic activity," he added. Anshuman Magazine, Chairman & CEO - CBRE India, South East Asia, Middle East & Africa, said, "RBI's decisions to relax LTV guidelines and rationalize risk weights for home loans will further encourage homebuyers." Anarock Chairman Anuj Puri said the announcement will definitely encourage banks to lend more to individual homebuyers without feeling the stress on their balance sheets. PropTiger and Housing.com CEO Dhruv Agarwala said it will effectively result in higher credit flow to the real estate sector. Square Yards CEO Tanuj Shori said, "The linking of risk weightage only to LTV ratio vis-a-vis the earlier practice of risk weightage with both pricing and LTV augurs well for the sector, particularly for high end properties which have been facing severe downward demand pressures." Welcoming the move, Hardayal Prasad, MD & CEO, PNB Housing Finance said rationalising the risk weights for all new housing loans until March 31, 2022 and the relaxation extended for LTV, shall give the much needed impetus to the housing sector. "At the same time, home loans will become accessible and competitive for the customers. This move by the central bank addresses the urgency required to boost the real estate sector in the country. This will also lead to the desired recovery of the construction sector which has a very important role to play in creating employment and growth," Prasad said. JLL India CEO and Country Head Ramesh Nair termed the move as timely and a step in the right direction and said this would provide a fillip to housing loans and have a positive impact on the residential sector. Knight Frank India CMD Shishir Baijal said the measures like rationalisation of risk weights to all new housing loans until March 2022 would give a fillip to housing loan growth. The RBI has extended the scheme for co-lending to all NBFCs and HFCs which will ease credit availability for the real estate sector, he added. Meanwhile, Siddhartha Mohanty, MD & CEO of LIC HFL said that in recognition of the role of the real estate sector in generating employment and economic activity, it has been rightly decided to rationalise the risk weights and link them to LTV ratios for all new housing loans sanctioned up to March 31, 2022. Savills India CEO Anurag Mathur said the rationalisation of risk weight of housing loans is a welcome step by the RBI that could potentially boost housing demand. "With this move, housing loans would eventually get more affordable, thereby benefiting the homebuyers in this sluggish market," he added. Emami Realty MD & CEO Nitesh Kumar said the RBI's move on housing loans willl boost credit sentiments and bring much needed positivity in the sector. Sunteck Realty CMD Kamal Khetan said homebuyers across all price points will be able to access more capital with ease. Additionally, it would help lenders on capital adequacy front and enable them to provide more loans, he added. Gaurs Group MD Manoj Gaur said the lowering of risk weightage on home loans and linking it to LTV only will ensure more credit to customers and thereby to the sector. Signature Global Chairman Pradeep Aggarwal said the loan on LTV will be helpful for real estate sector. S Raheja Realty Director Ram Raheja said it will provide the much-needed boost and encouragement to home buyers ahead of this festive season. Honeyy Katiyal, founder, Investors Clinic said the announcement by the RBI to extend the scheme for co-lending to all NBFCs and HFCs will help ease credit availability. "The move by RBI to link risks to loan to value will help banks shred the cautious lending approach. The move is bound to offer a much needed jump start to lending and liquidity cycle in the marketplace," said Kaushal Agarwal, Chairman, The Guardians Real Estate Advisory. The RBI's stand to rationalise risk weightage on home loans is a step in the right direction and homebuyers will benefit immensely from this move, said Ankush kaul, President (Sales & Marketing) - Ambience Group. Jyoti Prakash Gadia, Managing Director, Resurgent India said retail credit and real estate shall also get a fillip with regulatory relaxations announced with an increase in the limit to Rs 7.50 crore for retail credit and rationalisation of risk weight linked to loan value for housing loan, respectively.

Real estate developers welcome RBI's decision to lower risk weightage on home loans

Indian Defence Minister on Monday said that China and Pakistan have been creating border disputes under a mission.

"You are well aware of the conditions created along our northern and eastern borders. First it was Pakistan, and now also by China, as if a border dispute is being created under a mission. We have a border of about 7,000 km with these countries where the tension continues," Rajnath Singh said.&nbsp; 
 
<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> 
 
The defence minister was speaking after inaugurating the bridges built in strategically key areas of Ladakh, Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab and Jammu and Kashmir.

The bridges, built in Ladakh, Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab and Jammu and Kashmir, were dedicated to the nation by Singh in a virtual conference. Sources said seven of the 44 bridges are in Ladakh where the Indian Army is locked in a standoff with the Chinese PLA since May.

"Our armed forces personnel are deployed in large numbers in areas where transport is not available throughout the year," he said, noting improvement in border infrastructure will significantly help armed forces. "These roads are not only for strategic needs, but they also reflect equal participation of all stakeholders in the development of the nation," Singh said.

The defence minister praised the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) for working tirelessly even during the coronavirus-triggered lockdown period. The defence ministry said despite unprecedented snowfall breaking a 60-year record, all strategic passes and roads were cleared for traffic about one month before their average yearly opening dates.

"I am happy to know that over 2,200 kilometers of roads have been cut by the BRO during the last two years, using the latest technologies, and state-of-the-art equipment. Also, surfacing was carried out on about 4200 kms of roads," he added. Amid the border standoff with China, India is expediting work on several key projects including on a strategic road linking Darcha in Himachal Pradesh with Ladakh that will criss-cross a number of high-altitude snow-bound passes.

The nearly 290-km-long road will be crucial for the movement of troops and heavy weaponry into the frontier bases of the Ladakh region and will provide a crucial link to the Kargil region.

(With inputs from agencies)

Indian Defence Minister on Monday said that China and Pakistan have been creating border disputes under a mission. "You are well aware of the conditions created along our northern and eastern borders.

Indian Defence Minister on Monday said that China and Pakistan have been creating border disputes under a mission. "You are well aware of the conditions created along our northern and eastern borders. First it was Pakistan, and now also by China, as if a border dispute is being created under a mission. We have a border of about 7,000 km with these countries where the tension continues," Rajnath Singh said. In pictures: How Indian Air Force's 5th generation fighter jet will change air equation in South Asia The defence minister was speaking after inaugurating the bridges built in strategically key areas of Ladakh, Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab and Jammu and Kashmir. The bridges, built in Ladakh, Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab and Jammu and Kashmir, were dedicated to the nation by Singh in a virtual conference. Sources said seven of the 44 bridges are in Ladakh where the Indian Army is locked in a standoff with the Chinese PLA since May. "Our armed forces personnel are deployed in large numbers in areas where transport is not available throughout the year," he said, noting improvement in border infrastructure will significantly help armed forces. "These roads are not only for strategic needs, but they also reflect equal participation of all stakeholders in the development of the nation," Singh said. The defence minister praised the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) for working tirelessly even during the coronavirus-triggered lockdown period. The defence ministry said despite unprecedented snowfall breaking a 60-year record, all strategic passes and roads were cleared for traffic about one month before their average yearly opening dates. "I am happy to know that over 2,200 kilometers of roads have been cut by the BRO during the last two years, using the latest technologies, and state-of-the-art equipment. Also, surfacing was carried out on about 4200 kms of roads," he added. Amid the border standoff with China, India is expediting work on several key projects including on a strategic road linking Darcha in Himachal Pradesh with Ladakh that will criss-cross a number of high-altitude snow-bound passes. The nearly 290-km-long road will be crucial for the movement of troops and heavy weaponry into the frontier bases of the Ladakh region and will provide a crucial link to the Kargil region. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan, China appear to be on a mission to create disputes at borders: Rajnath Singh

The Supreme Court Monday sought the Centre's reply on a PIL seeking equal protection in law to transgender people on the grounds that there was no penal provision which protects them from offences of sexual assault.

A bench headed by Chief Justice S A Bobde said that it was a "good case" which needed hearing.

The bench, also comprising Justices A S Bopanna and V Ramasubramanian, asked senior advocate Vikas Singh, representing petitioner lawyer Reepak Kansal, to file details of cases where the court had passed orders in the the absence of laws to deal with issues.

In a hearing conducted via video conferencing, the bench referred to the framing of the Vishaka guidelines to deal with sexual harassment of women at work places and the decriminalization of consensual gay sex by the apex court in the absence of laws.

Singh said he would be filing such details as asked by the court.

The plea, which has made the ministries of law and justice, and social justice and empowerment as parties, has referred to the provisions of the IPC of 1860 as also to the recent amendments to the statute and other laws on sexual offences and alleged that none of them talked about the "transgender, transsexuals, kinnar and eunuchs".

"In spite of declaring transgender people to be a 'third gender' by this court, there is no provision/ section in the Indian Penal Code which may protect the third gender from the sexual assault by male/ female or another transgender," it said.

The PIL challenged the constitutional validity of certain clauses of Section 354A (outraging the modesty of woman) of IPC, to the extent that they are interpreted to exclude victims of sexual harassment who are transgender persons, as being ultra vires Articles 14, 15 and 21 of the Constitution.

Lawyer Kansal, who filed the PIL in personal capacity, said that though the apex court in 2014, had granted "recognition to the transgender/ third gender as 'persons' falling under the ambit of Article 14 of the Indian Constitution", still they do not have equal protection of law in relation to sexual offenses.

"The petitioner is filing this petition. with respect to equal protection of law to the third gender/ transgender from the sexual assault /offences as there is no provision / section in the IPC which may protect the third gender from the sexual assault by male/ female or another transgender therefore, anti-discrimination laws are needed to safeguard the basic citizenship rights of transgender persons," the plea said.

The plea, which may come up for hearing in few days, has sought a direction to the Centre to "make appropriate modification/ interpretation of sections/ provisions of IPC dealing with sexual assault to include transgender/ transsexuals/ kinnar and eunuchs in the definitions accordingly".

It also referred to an incident of not lodging an FIR by Delhi Police on a sexual harassment complaint of a Delhi University transgender student on the ground that there was no provision in the IPC to deal with transgenders.

The plea urged the top court "to issue an appropriate order directing the respondents to pass an Anti-Discrimination Bill that penalises discrimination and harassment on the basis of gender".

It also sought a direction to the Centre to adopt and implement the Universal Declaration of Human Rights being signatory of it.

The Supreme Court Monday sought the Centre's reply on a PIL seeking equal protection in law to transgender people on the grounds that there was no penal provision which protects them from offences of sexual assault.

The Supreme Court Monday sought the Centre's reply on a PIL seeking equal protection in law to transgender people on the grounds that there was no penal provision which protects them from offences of sexual assault. A bench headed by Chief Justice S A Bobde said that it was a "good case" which needed hearing. The bench, also comprising Justices A S Bopanna and V Ramasubramanian, asked senior advocate Vikas Singh, representing petitioner lawyer Reepak Kansal, to file details of cases where the court had passed orders in the the absence of laws to deal with issues. In a hearing conducted via video conferencing, the bench referred to the framing of the Vishaka guidelines to deal with sexual harassment of women at work places and the decriminalization of consensual gay sex by the apex court in the absence of laws. Singh said he would be filing such details as asked by the court. The plea, which has made the ministries of law and justice, and social justice and empowerment as parties, has referred to the provisions of the IPC of 1860 as also to the recent amendments to the statute and other laws on sexual offences and alleged that none of them talked about the "transgender, transsexuals, kinnar and eunuchs". "In spite of declaring transgender people to be a 'third gender' by this court, there is no provision/ section in the Indian Penal Code which may protect the third gender from the sexual assault by male/ female or another transgender," it said. The PIL challenged the constitutional validity of certain clauses of Section 354A (outraging the modesty of woman) of IPC, to the extent that they are interpreted to exclude victims of sexual harassment who are transgender persons, as being ultra vires Articles 14, 15 and 21 of the Constitution. Lawyer Kansal, who filed the PIL in personal capacity, said that though the apex court in 2014, had granted "recognition to the transgender/ third gender as 'persons' falling under the ambit of Article 14 of the Indian Constitution", still they do not have equal protection of law in relation to sexual offenses. "The petitioner is filing this petition. with respect to equal protection of law to the third gender/ transgender from the sexual assault /offences as there is no provision / section in the IPC which may protect the third gender from the sexual assault by male/ female or another transgender therefore, anti-discrimination laws are needed to safeguard the basic citizenship rights of transgender persons," the plea said. The plea, which may come up for hearing in few days, has sought a direction to the Centre to "make appropriate modification/ interpretation of sections/ provisions of IPC dealing with sexual assault to include transgender/ transsexuals/ kinnar and eunuchs in the definitions accordingly". It also referred to an incident of not lodging an FIR by Delhi Police on a sexual harassment complaint of a Delhi University transgender student on the ground that there was no provision in the IPC to deal with transgenders. The plea urged the top court "to issue an appropriate order directing the respondents to pass an Anti-Discrimination Bill that penalises discrimination and harassment on the basis of gender". It also sought a direction to the Centre to adopt and implement the Universal Declaration of Human Rights being signatory of it.

Supreme Court seeks Centre's reply on PIL for equal protection of law to transgenders in sexual offences

The BJP on Monday accused National Conference supremo Farooq Abdullah of making "seditious and anti-national" remarks on the issue of restoring the special status of Jammu and Kashmir and said he had become a "hero in China".

BJP national spokesperson Sambit Patra said that the National Conference MP and former chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir in an interview to a TV channel stated that "with China's support", Article 370 of the Constitution, which conferred special status to Jammu and Kashmir, will be restored.

Addressing a press conference at the party office, Patra claimed Abdullah has also justified China's recent aggression at the Line of Actual Control (LAC) by saying that the abrogation of Article 370 by the Indian parliament has irked and disturbed the communist country.

Underlining that Article 370 was abrogated in a "constitutional manner" by the Indian parliament, the BJP leader said, "Abdullah remarks are seditious and anti-national."

Patra said it is painful and worrisome that a former chief minister and sitting MP makes such a statement and "justifies the expansionist attitude of China".

Parliamentarians from opposition parties have the right to attack and criticise the government, but "does it suit a sitting MP to speak against the interests of his own country out of frustration against Prime Minister Narendra Modi", he said.

Drawing parallels between the remarks of Abdullah and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, Patra said they both have a similar mindset and are two sides of the same coin.

"It is not just Farooq Abdullah who makes such statements. Rahul Gandhi also does so. If you look back into history and listen to the recent statements of Rahul Gandhi, you will find that both these leaders are two sides of the same coin," Patra said.

He said that by questioning the Balakot airstrike, Rahul Gandhi had become a hero in Pakistan and, similarly, with the recent remarks "Abdullah has become a hero in China."

The BJP on Monday accused National Conference supremo Farooq Abdullah of making "seditious and anti-national" remarks on the issue of restoring the special status of Jammu and Kashmir and said he had become a "hero in China".

The BJP on Monday accused National Conference supremo Farooq Abdullah of making "seditious and anti-national" remarks on the issue of restoring the special status of Jammu and Kashmir and said he had become a "hero in China". BJP national spokesperson Sambit Patra said that the National Conference MP and former chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir in an interview to a TV channel stated that "with China's support", Article 370 of the Constitution, which conferred special status to Jammu and Kashmir, will be restored. Addressing a press conference at the party office, Patra claimed Abdullah has also justified China's recent aggression at the Line of Actual Control (LAC) by saying that the abrogation of Article 370 by the Indian parliament has irked and disturbed the communist country. Underlining that Article 370 was abrogated in a "constitutional manner" by the Indian parliament, the BJP leader said, "Abdullah remarks are seditious and anti-national." Patra said it is painful and worrisome that a former chief minister and sitting MP makes such a statement and "justifies the expansionist attitude of China". Parliamentarians from opposition parties have the right to attack and criticise the government, but "does it suit a sitting MP to speak against the interests of his own country out of frustration against Prime Minister Narendra Modi", he said. Drawing parallels between the remarks of Abdullah and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, Patra said they both have a similar mindset and are two sides of the same coin. "It is not just Farooq Abdullah who makes such statements. Rahul Gandhi also does so. If you look back into history and listen to the recent statements of Rahul Gandhi, you will find that both these leaders are two sides of the same coin," Patra said. He said that by questioning the Balakot airstrike, Rahul Gandhi had become a hero in Pakistan and, similarly, with the recent remarks "Abdullah has become a hero in China."

Farooq Abdullah has become a 'hero in China': BJP hits out at National Conference supremo over his comments on Article 370

The Ministry of External Affairs has confirmed that the seven Indian hostages kidnapped in Asshwerif in Libya on September 14 were released on October 11. India's envoy to Tunisia Puneet Roy Kundal, who played a key role in negotiations, spoke to them over the phone after they were handed over by the abductors to the company Al Shola Al Mudia.

The MEA said, "All of them are in good health and are currently staying in the company’s premises in Brega. We are trying to complete requisite formalities to enable their return to India."

India thanked the "Libyan authorities and the tribal leaders" from the region for "their steadfast cooperation in securing the release of our nationals unharmed".

The negotiations were complex given the fact that two parallel governments were involved. India took the help of local tribals to secure the release.&nbsp;

New Delhi does not have a working mission in Libya given the current situation and Indian mission in neighbouring Tunisia is dealing with the affairs in the country.

WION was the first Indian channel to break the story. The Indians are currently in Brega town, which is the centre of the country's second-largest hydrocarbon complex.

The Indian nationals belong to the states of Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Gujarat and Uttar Pradesh. They were working at a construction and oil field supplies company and were kidnapped on their way to the Tripoli airport to catch a flight to India.

For local coordination, Tabassum Mansoor, Principal of Indian International School, Benghazi was appointed by the Indian Embassy in Tunisia. Mansoor who has been living in Libya for last 40 years, on the instructions of the Indian Envoy Kundal was in constant touch with all the Libyan authorities especially the company manager and other key players almost on a daily basis.

India in September 2015 issued a travel advisory for Indian nationals to avoid travelling to Libya in view of the security situation there. Later, in May 2016, the government imposed a complete travel ban irrespective of the purpose in view of the deteriorating security situation. The travel ban remains in force.

The Ministry of External Affairs has confirmed that the seven Indian hostages kidnapped in Asshwerif in Libya on September 14 were released on October 11. India's envoy to Tunisia Puneet Roy Kundal, who played a key role in negotiations, spoke to them over the phone after they were handed over by the abductors to the company Al Shola Al Mudia.

The Ministry of External Affairs has confirmed that the seven Indian hostages kidnapped in Asshwerif in Libya on September 14 were released on October 11. India's envoy to Tunisia Puneet Roy Kundal, who played a key role in negotiations, spoke to them over the phone after they were handed over by the abductors to the company Al Shola Al Mudia. The MEA said, "All of them are in good health and are currently staying in the company’s premises in Brega. We are trying to complete requisite formalities to enable their return to India." India thanked the "Libyan authorities and the tribal leaders" from the region for "their steadfast cooperation in securing the release of our nationals unharmed". The negotiations were complex given the fact that two parallel governments were involved. India took the help of local tribals to secure the release. New Delhi does not have a working mission in Libya given the current situation and Indian mission in neighbouring Tunisia is dealing with the affairs in the country. WION was the first Indian channel to break the story. The Indians are currently in Brega town, which is the centre of the country's second-largest hydrocarbon complex. The Indian nationals belong to the states of Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Gujarat and Uttar Pradesh. They were working at a construction and oil field supplies company and were kidnapped on their way to the Tripoli airport to catch a flight to India. For local coordination, Tabassum Mansoor, Principal of Indian International School, Benghazi was appointed by the Indian Embassy in Tunisia. Mansoor who has been living in Libya for last 40 years, on the instructions of the Indian Envoy Kundal was in constant touch with all the Libyan authorities especially the company manager and other key players almost on a daily basis. India in September 2015 issued a travel advisory for Indian nationals to avoid travelling to Libya in view of the security situation there. Later, in May 2016, the government imposed a complete travel ban irrespective of the purpose in view of the deteriorating security situation. The travel ban remains in force.

7 Indian hostages in Libya freed; India took help of tribal elders: Foreign Ministry

India's annual retail inflation picked up in September to 7.34% from a year ago as food prices surged ahead of the festival season, government data showed on Monday.

Analysts in a Reuters poll had forecast that retail inflation would rise to 6.88% in September, compared to 6.69% in the previous month.

(More details awaited)

India's annual retail inflation picked up in September to 7.34% from a year ago as food prices surged ahead of the festival season, government data showed on Monday.

India's annual retail inflation picked up in September to 7.34% from a year ago as food prices surged ahead of the festival season, government data showed on Monday. Analysts in a Reuters poll had forecast that retail inflation would rise to 6.88% in September, compared to 6.69% in the previous month. (More details awaited)

India's September inflation picks up to 7.34%

India generated 18,006 tonnes of COVID-19 biomedical waste in the last four months, with Maharashtra contributing the maximum (3,587 tonnes) to it, according to a Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data.

Around 5,500 tonnes of COVID-19 waste was generated across the country in September - the maximum for a month so far.

According to the data received from state pollution control boards, since June, all states and Union Territories have generated 18,006 tonnes of COVID-19-related biomedical waste which is being collected, treated and disposed of by 198 common biomedical waste treatment facilities (CBWTFs).

COVID-19 biomedical waste could include PPE kits, masks, shoe covers, gloves, human tissues, items contaminated with blood, body fluids like dressings, plaster casts, cotton swabs, beddings contaminated with blood or body fluid, blood bags, needles, syringes etc.

According to the data, Maharashtra generated 3,587 tonnes of COVID-19 waste in four months since June, followed by Tamil Nadu (1,737 tonnes), Gujarat (1,638 tonnes), Kerala (1,516 tonnes), Uttar Pradesh (1,432 tonnes), Delhi (1,400 tonnes), Karnataka (1,380 tonnes) and West Bengal (1,000 tonnes).

Around 5,490 tonnes of such waste was generated in September, with Gujarat contributing the maximum 622 tonnes, followed by Tamil Nadu (543 tonnes), Maharashtra (524 tnnes), Uttar Pradesh (507 tonnes) and Kerala (494 tonnes).

Delhi generated 382 tonnes of COVID-19 bio-medical waste in September, according to the CPCB data.

Around 5,240 tonnes of COVID-19 waste was generated in August, of which 1,359 tonnes was in Maharashtra, and 588 tonnes each in Kerala and Karnataka.

In July, the country generated 4,253 tonnes of COVID-19 waste, with Maharashtra (1,180), Karnataka (540) and Tamil Nadu (401) being the top three contributors.

India generated 3,025 tonnes of COVID-19 waste in June, with Maharashtra alone accounting for 524 tonnes, followed by Gujarat (350 tonnes), Delhi (333 tonnes) and Tamil Nadu (312 tonnes) The CPCB had in March issued specific guidelines for handling, treatment and disposal of such waste at healthcare facilities, quarantine centres, homes, sample collection centers, laboratories, pollution control boards, urban local bodies and common biomedical waste treatment facilities (CBMWTFs).

The apex pollution body had in May developed the "COVID19BWM" mobile application to monitor coronavirus-related biomedical waste and to compile the data through electronic manifest system.

This application tracks COVID-19 waste at the time of generation, collection and disposal.

The Supreme Court has made it mandatory for all urban local bodies and state pollution control boards to use the mobile application for tracking biomedical waste daily in a bid to ensure that the waste is collected, transported and sent to the registered CBMWTFs.

The directions came on July 30 on recommendations made in a report by the Environment Pollution (Prevention and Control) Authority.

As on Monday, India's COVID-19 caseload stands at 71.2 lakhs while the death toll is 1.09 lakh.

India generated 18,006 tonnes of COVID-19 biomedical waste in the last four months, with Maharashtra contributing the maximum (3,587 tonnes) to it, according to a Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data.

India generated 18,006 tonnes of COVID-19 biomedical waste in the last four months, with Maharashtra contributing the maximum (3,587 tonnes) to it, according to a Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data. Around 5,500 tonnes of COVID-19 waste was generated across the country in September - the maximum for a month so far. According to the data received from state pollution control boards, since June, all states and Union Territories have generated 18,006 tonnes of COVID-19-related biomedical waste which is being collected, treated and disposed of by 198 common biomedical waste treatment facilities (CBWTFs). COVID-19 biomedical waste could include PPE kits, masks, shoe covers, gloves, human tissues, items contaminated with blood, body fluids like dressings, plaster casts, cotton swabs, beddings contaminated with blood or body fluid, blood bags, needles, syringes etc. According to the data, Maharashtra generated 3,587 tonnes of COVID-19 waste in four months since June, followed by Tamil Nadu (1,737 tonnes), Gujarat (1,638 tonnes), Kerala (1,516 tonnes), Uttar Pradesh (1,432 tonnes), Delhi (1,400 tonnes), Karnataka (1,380 tonnes) and West Bengal (1,000 tonnes). Around 5,490 tonnes of such waste was generated in September, with Gujarat contributing the maximum 622 tonnes, followed by Tamil Nadu (543 tonnes), Maharashtra (524 tnnes), Uttar Pradesh (507 tonnes) and Kerala (494 tonnes). Delhi generated 382 tonnes of COVID-19 bio-medical waste in September, according to the CPCB data. Around 5,240 tonnes of COVID-19 waste was generated in August, of which 1,359 tonnes was in Maharashtra, and 588 tonnes each in Kerala and Karnataka. In July, the country generated 4,253 tonnes of COVID-19 waste, with Maharashtra (1,180), Karnataka (540) and Tamil Nadu (401) being the top three contributors. India generated 3,025 tonnes of COVID-19 waste in June, with Maharashtra alone accounting for 524 tonnes, followed by Gujarat (350 tonnes), Delhi (333 tonnes) and Tamil Nadu (312 tonnes) The CPCB had in March issued specific guidelines for handling, treatment and disposal of such waste at healthcare facilities, quarantine centres, homes, sample collection centers, laboratories, pollution control boards, urban local bodies and common biomedical waste treatment facilities (CBMWTFs). The apex pollution body had in May developed the "COVID19BWM" mobile application to monitor coronavirus-related biomedical waste and to compile the data through electronic manifest system. This application tracks COVID-19 waste at the time of generation, collection and disposal. The Supreme Court has made it mandatory for all urban local bodies and state pollution control boards to use the mobile application for tracking biomedical waste daily in a bid to ensure that the waste is collected, transported and sent to the registered CBMWTFs. The directions came on July 30 on recommendations made in a report by the Environment Pollution (Prevention and Control) Authority. As on Monday, India's COVID-19 caseload stands at 71.2 lakhs while the death toll is 1.09 lakh.

India generated over 18,000 tonnes COVID-19 waste since June; Maharashtra biggest contributor

Actor-turned-politician Kushboo Sundar joined the Bharatiya Janata Party&nbsp;on Monday, hours after she quit the Congress.

Speaking to reporters at the joining ceremony, the actor from Tamil Nadu said she had come to the understanding over a period of time that if the nation has to move forward, then someone like Prime Minister Narendra Modi is needed to take the country "in the right direction and to its glory".

A national spokesperson of the Congress, she resigned from the party protesting against what she called some leaders' "dictating terms" and "suppressing" her.

She was with the DMK before joining the Congress in 2014.

Assembly polls are due in Tamil Nadu in the first half of the next year, and the BJP hopes the her induction will be a boost to it.

The BJP has long been a marginal force in the southern state where two Dravidian parties, the AIADMK and the DMK, have been the main contenders for power.&nbsp;

Actor-turned-politician Kushboo Sundar joined the Bharatiya Janata Party on Monday, hours after she quit the Congress. Speaking to reporters at the joining ceremony, the actor from Tamil Nadu said she had come to the understanding over a period of time that if the nation has to move forward, then someone like Prime Minister Narendra Modi is needed to take the country "in the right direction and to its glory".

Actor-turned-politician Kushboo Sundar joined the Bharatiya Janata Party on Monday, hours after she quit the Congress. Speaking to reporters at the joining ceremony, the actor from Tamil Nadu said she had come to the understanding over a period of time that if the nation has to move forward, then someone like Prime Minister Narendra Modi is needed to take the country "in the right direction and to its glory". A national spokesperson of the Congress, she resigned from the party protesting against what she called some leaders' "dictating terms" and "suppressing" her. She was with the DMK before joining the Congress in 2014. Assembly polls are due in Tamil Nadu in the first half of the next year, and the BJP hopes the her induction will be a boost to it. The BJP has long been a marginal force in the southern state where two Dravidian parties, the AIADMK and the DMK, have been the main contenders for power.

Khushbu Sundar joins BJP after resigning from Congress

Finance Minister Sitharaman on Monday announced&nbsp;Rupees 12,000 crore interest-free 50-year loan&nbsp;to states for spending on capital projects.

The initiative will&nbsp;bolster the pandemic-hit Indian economy by creating a consumer demand of about 280 billion rupees ($3.83 billion).

Sitharaman said during a press conference, "The COVID-19 pandemic has adversely affected the economy. The needs of the poor and weaker sections were addressed in various announcements by the government. Supply constraints have somewhat got eased but consumer demand still needs to be given a boost."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-gdp-expected-to-contract-by-9-per-cent-this-year-world-bank-333426" hreflang="en">India's GDP expected to contract by 9 per cent this year: World Bank</a>

In a bid to stimulate consumer demand in the economy,&nbsp;Sitharaman announced two proposals: Leave Travel Concession (LTC) Cash Voucher Scheme and Special Festival Advance Scheme.

"The proposals being presented are designed in a way that they can stimulate demand by front-loading/advancing some of the expenditure with some offsetting changes. Others are directly linked to an increase in the GDP," she explained.

Under the LTC Cash Voucher Scheme, government employees can opt to receive cash amounting to leave encashment plus three times ticket fare, to buy items, which attract GST of 12 per cent or more.

Every four years, central government employees get LTC to any destination to their choice plus one to their hometown. 
Since travel is difficult to undertake during the pandemic, the government will pay the entitled fare as cash vouchers which have to be spent by March 31, 2021, she said.

Central government payout on cash-in-lieu-for-LTC will be Rs 5,675 crore, and another Rs 1,900 crore will be payout by central PSUs and public sector banks, Sitharaman said.

The demand infusion because of this would be Rs 19,000 crore, and another Rs 9,000 crore if half of the states follow this guideline, she added.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government, which imposed a tough lockdown to stem the spread of the coronavirus in March, is pushing ahead with a full opening to try to boost the economy ahead of the usually high-spending festival season.

Finance Minister Sitharaman on Monday announced Rupees 12,000 crore interest-free 50-year loan to states for spending on capital projects. The initiative will bolster the pandemic-hit Indian economy by creating a consumer demand of about 280 billion rupees ($3.

Finance Minister Sitharaman on Monday announced Rupees 12,000 crore interest-free 50-year loan to states for spending on capital projects. The initiative will bolster the pandemic-hit Indian economy by creating a consumer demand of about 280 billion rupees ($3.83 billion). Sitharaman said during a press conference, "The COVID-19 pandemic has adversely affected the economy. The needs of the poor and weaker sections were addressed in various announcements by the government. Supply constraints have somewhat got eased but consumer demand still needs to be given a boost." Also read: India's GDP expected to contract by 9 per cent this year: World Bank In a bid to stimulate consumer demand in the economy, Sitharaman announced two proposals: Leave Travel Concession (LTC) Cash Voucher Scheme and Special Festival Advance Scheme. "The proposals being presented are designed in a way that they can stimulate demand by front-loading/advancing some of the expenditure with some offsetting changes. Others are directly linked to an increase in the GDP," she explained. Under the LTC Cash Voucher Scheme, government employees can opt to receive cash amounting to leave encashment plus three times ticket fare, to buy items, which attract GST of 12 per cent or more. Every four years, central government employees get LTC to any destination to their choice plus one to their hometown. Since travel is difficult to undertake during the pandemic, the government will pay the entitled fare as cash vouchers which have to be spent by March 31, 2021, she said. Central government payout on cash-in-lieu-for-LTC will be Rs 5,675 crore, and another Rs 1,900 crore will be payout by central PSUs and public sector banks, Sitharaman said. The demand infusion because of this would be Rs 19,000 crore, and another Rs 9,000 crore if half of the states follow this guideline, she added. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government, which imposed a tough lockdown to stem the spread of the coronavirus in March, is pushing ahead with a full opening to try to boost the economy ahead of the usually high-spending festival season.

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

India's maximum city of Mumbai came to a halt on Monday after a grid failure caused massive power outages in many parts from the morning.&nbsp;

After more than an hour of outages, power supply came back in a few areas and the train services were also fully restored.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

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Earlier, the power failures severely hit Mumbai's lifelines, Central Railway and Western Railway, causing local trains to make unnecessary stops.&nbsp;

Maharashtra Energy Minister Nitin Raut said the electricity was interrupted due to maintenance and repair work at circuit one of 400 KV GIS centre, adding that it affected most of the parts of Mumbai and Thane.&nbsp;

"Repair and maintenance work was underway at Circuit 1 of 400 KV GIS centre and the entire load was put on Circuit 2. However, sudden technical failure in circuit 2 resulted in power being affected in most of the parts of Mumbai and Thane," he said.&nbsp;

Before Raut's remarks, the state electricity board, Western Railways, Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) blamed Tata Power for the power failure.&nbsp;

"In view of interruption in Traction power at 10.05 hours due to Grid failure of Tata Power company, services between Churchgate and Borivili are suspended. It shall be resumed as soon as traction power supply is restored," Sumit Thakur, a spokesperson of Western Railways said, as quoted by news agency IANS.&nbsp;

The crisis came at a time when India's financial capital is already dealing with the coronavirus pandemic and power outages will impact the overly stretched health infrastructure of the city.&nbsp;

Other services like water supply schedules, lifts, traffic signals were also hit due to the power failure.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

India's maximum city of Mumbai came to a halt on Monday after a grid failure caused massive power outages in many parts from the morning. After more than an hour of outages, power supply came back in a few areas and the train services were also fully restored.

India's maximum city of Mumbai came to a halt on Monday after a grid failure caused massive power outages in many parts from the morning. After more than an hour of outages, power supply came back in a few areas and the train services were also fully restored. Watch | Earlier, the power failures severely hit Mumbai's lifelines, Central Railway and Western Railway, causing local trains to make unnecessary stops. Maharashtra Energy Minister Nitin Raut said the electricity was interrupted due to maintenance and repair work at circuit one of 400 KV GIS centre, adding that it affected most of the parts of Mumbai and Thane. "Repair and maintenance work was underway at Circuit 1 of 400 KV GIS centre and the entire load was put on Circuit 2. However, sudden technical failure in circuit 2 resulted in power being affected in most of the parts of Mumbai and Thane," he said. Before Raut's remarks, the state electricity board, Western Railways, Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) blamed Tata Power for the power failure. "In view of interruption in Traction power at 10.05 hours due to Grid failure of Tata Power company, services between Churchgate and Borivili are suspended. It shall be resumed as soon as traction power supply is restored," Sumit Thakur, a spokesperson of Western Railways said, as quoted by news agency IANS. The crisis came at a time when India's financial capital is already dealing with the coronavirus pandemic and power outages will impact the overly stretched health infrastructure of the city. Other services like water supply schedules, lifts, traffic signals were also hit due to the power failure.

Mumbai, India's maximum city comes to a halt after massive power outages

India's coronavirus cases surged past seven million on Sunday, taking it ever closer to overtaking the United States as the world's most infected country.

Health ministry data showed a rise of almost 75,000 cases on Sunday, taking the total to 7.05 million, second only to the US which has recorded 7.67 million infections.

Experts say that the true number may be much higher, with testing rates in the vast country of 1.3 billion people -- home to some of the planet's most crowded cities -- much lower than in many other countries.

This is borne out by a string of studies measuring antibodies to the virus among the Indian population that have indicated infection rates could be several times higher than officially recorded.

India's death toll of 108,334 as of Sunday is also lower than in the US and other countries with higher caseloads.

The United States has recorded 214,000 deaths while Brazil, with two million fewer infections than India, has lost nearly 150,000 lives so far.

Possible factors for this include India's relatively young population, immunity thanks to other diseases -- and under-reporting.

The rise in infections in India comes as the government continues to lift restrictions to boost an economy battered by a severe lockdown imposed in March.

On Thursday, cinemas are set to re-open -- albeit at 50 percent capacity -- and experts fear the upcoming festival season when large crowds gather for public celebrations will exacerbate the situation.

Anticipating a fresh surge in cases, the government has issued strict guidelines and capped the number of revellers for the two main Hindu festivals of Dussehra on October 25 and Diwali next month.

On Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a mass awareness campaign, encouraging the public to wear masks, practise hand hygiene and maintain physical distance.

"Our collective efforts have helped saved many lives. We have&nbsp;to continue the momentum and protect our citizens from the virus," Modi tweeted.

- 'Underlying anxiety' -

The virus initially hit major metropolises such as Mumbai and New Delhi, but has since spread to almost every corner of the huge country, including the remote Andaman and Nicobar islands.

Recently, the daily number of new cases has fallen from a peak of almost 100,000 in mid-September to around 60,000-70,000.

But Preeti Kumar of the Delhi-based Public Health Foundation of India said it was too early to assume India has passed the peak.

"What the epidemic has taught us is caution. These declines (in numbers) are real but depend on many factors such as testing, type of testing, intervention efficacy etcetera," Kumar told AFP.

Many Indians are worried too.

"Despite the government's efforts to take things back to normal, it doesn't feel that way because there is an underlying anxiety that I may be the next to become a part of the virus statistics," said Anamika Prasad, 23, a university student.

Jayprakash Shukla, 66, a retired government official, said he was worried about cases going up "hugely and beyond control".

"When I go out, I see many people without masks," he said.

"Maybe they are fed up of wearing masks but if people don't change their ways, it is going to be calamitous for our country."

India's coronavirus cases surged past seven million on Sunday, taking it ever closer to overtaking the United States as the world's most infected country. Health ministry data showed a rise of almost 75,000 cases on Sunday, taking the total to 7.

India's coronavirus cases surged past seven million on Sunday, taking it ever closer to overtaking the United States as the world's most infected country. Health ministry data showed a rise of almost 75,000 cases on Sunday, taking the total to 7.05 million, second only to the US which has recorded 7.67 million infections. Experts say that the true number may be much higher, with testing rates in the vast country of 1.3 billion people -- home to some of the planet's most crowded cities -- much lower than in many other countries. This is borne out by a string of studies measuring antibodies to the virus among the Indian population that have indicated infection rates could be several times higher than officially recorded. India's death toll of 108,334 as of Sunday is also lower than in the US and other countries with higher caseloads. The United States has recorded 214,000 deaths while Brazil, with two million fewer infections than India, has lost nearly 150,000 lives so far. Possible factors for this include India's relatively young population, immunity thanks to other diseases -- and under-reporting. The rise in infections in India comes as the government continues to lift restrictions to boost an economy battered by a severe lockdown imposed in March. On Thursday, cinemas are set to re-open -- albeit at 50 percent capacity -- and experts fear the upcoming festival season when large crowds gather for public celebrations will exacerbate the situation. Anticipating a fresh surge in cases, the government has issued strict guidelines and capped the number of revellers for the two main Hindu festivals of Dussehra on October 25 and Diwali next month. On Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a mass awareness campaign, encouraging the public to wear masks, practise hand hygiene and maintain physical distance. "Our collective efforts have helped saved many lives. We have to continue the momentum and protect our citizens from the virus," Modi tweeted. - 'Underlying anxiety' - The virus initially hit major metropolises such as Mumbai and New Delhi, but has since spread to almost every corner of the huge country, including the remote Andaman and Nicobar islands. Recently, the daily number of new cases has fallen from a peak of almost 100,000 in mid-September to around 60,000-70,000. But Preeti Kumar of the Delhi-based Public Health Foundation of India said it was too early to assume India has passed the peak. "What the epidemic has taught us is caution. These declines (in numbers) are real but depend on many factors such as testing, type of testing, intervention efficacy etcetera," Kumar told AFP. Many Indians are worried too. "Despite the government's efforts to take things back to normal, it doesn't feel that way because there is an underlying anxiety that I may be the next to become a part of the virus statistics," said Anamika Prasad, 23, a university student. Jayprakash Shukla, 66, a retired government official, said he was worried about cases going up "hugely and beyond control". "When I go out, I see many people without masks," he said. "Maybe they are fed up of wearing masks but if people don't change their ways, it is going to be calamitous for our country."

India coronavirus cases cross 7 million

The National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has recently warned Delhi is likely to report around 15,000 Covid-19 cases daily in winter.

India: COVID-19 cases top 7 million mark | India Top news | Corona news

Amid the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/india-china-standoff">India-China standoff</a> at the LAC, the seventh India-China corps commander-level talks are due to take place on October 12 at Chushul.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/iafs-chinook-helicopter-carries-out-night-sortie-from-leh-airbase-watch-video-334404">Watch video:&nbsp;IAF's Chinook helicopter carries out night sortie from Leh airbase</a>

Indian and Chinese commanders have been involved in commander-level talks since May and after the Galwan Valley clash on June 15 in which 20 Indian soldiers were killed, although the PLA had lost soldiers as well but the Chinese foreign ministry has refused to divulge figures.

Indian and Chinese troops were involved in another clash on August 29-30 as the Indian side pushed back the Chinese incursion.

India's foreign ministry had said earlier that it "never accepted the so-called unilaterally defined 1959 Line of Actual Contro(LAC). The position has been consistent and well known including to the Chinese."

The MEA called &nbsp;on the Chinese side to "sincerely and faithfully" abide by all "agreements and understandings in their entirety and refrain from advancing an untenable unilateral interpretation of the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-hopes-india-china-resolve-border-issues-offers-help-again-330069"> LAC</a>."

MEA had asserted that the "two sides had engaged in an exercise to clarify and confirm the LAC up to 2003 but this process could not proceed further as the Chinese side did not show a willingness to pursue it.

The Indian Army military is set to keep troops deployed along the high-altitude border through the winter as Chinese troops have reportedly refused to budge from their forward positions in eastern Ladakh.

Temperatures in Ladakh can fall well below freezing with troops deployed at altitudes of over 15,000 feet. India has moved large quantities of supplies to stock its troops with Indian Air Force's large transport aircraft landed at a forward base in Ladakh.

Amid the India-China standoff at the LAC, the seventh India-China corps commander-level talks are due to take place on October 12 at Chushul. Watch video: IAF's Chinook helicopter carries out night sortie from Leh airbase Indian and Chinese commanders have been involved in commander-level talks since May and after the Galwan Valley clash on June 15 in which 20 Indian soldiers were killed, although the PLA had lost soldiers as well but the Chinese foreign ministry has refused to divulge figures.

Amid the India-China standoff at the LAC, the seventh India-China corps commander-level talks are due to take place on October 12 at Chushul. Watch video: IAF's Chinook helicopter carries out night sortie from Leh airbase Indian and Chinese commanders have been involved in commander-level talks since May and after the Galwan Valley clash on June 15 in which 20 Indian soldiers were killed, although the PLA had lost soldiers as well but the Chinese foreign ministry has refused to divulge figures. Indian and Chinese troops were involved in another clash on August 29-30 as the Indian side pushed back the Chinese incursion. India's foreign ministry had said earlier that it "never accepted the so-called unilaterally defined 1959 Line of Actual Contro(LAC). The position has been consistent and well known including to the Chinese." The MEA called on the Chinese side to "sincerely and faithfully" abide by all "agreements and understandings in their entirety and refrain from advancing an untenable unilateral interpretation of the LAC." MEA had asserted that the "two sides had engaged in an exercise to clarify and confirm the LAC up to 2003 but this process could not proceed further as the Chinese side did not show a willingness to pursue it. The Indian Army military is set to keep troops deployed along the high-altitude border through the winter as Chinese troops have reportedly refused to budge from their forward positions in eastern Ladakh. Temperatures in Ladakh can fall well below freezing with troops deployed at altitudes of over 15,000 feet. India has moved large quantities of supplies to stock its troops with Indian Air Force's large transport aircraft landed at a forward base in Ladakh.

India-China corps commander talks to take place at Chushul on October 12

Chaitanya Venkateswaran, an 18-year-old girl from India, got a unique opportunity to become the&nbsp;British High Commissioner of India.

Venkateswaran, who hails from India's capital city New Delhi, participated in an initiative run by the&nbsp;British High Commission, in which the organisation urges young Indian women, between the age of 18 and 23, to step into the role of being a world leader.

Called the "High Commissioner for a Day", this initiative is an annual event that was first organised in 2017 and celebrates the&nbsp;International Day of the Girl Child, which is on October 11.

Venkateswaran took to facebook to submit her entry for the role. The video, that was submitted on September 12, talks about the challenges and opportunities for gender equality in the age of COVID-19.

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"I used to visit the British Council library in New Delhi when I was younger, and that's where I cultivated my love of learning. Building on that knowledge, to be the British High Commissioner for a day was a golden opportunity," Chaitanya Venkateswaran said.

She was also featured in an interview with Jan Thompson, the Deputy High Commissioner for that day and acting High Commissioner to India on other days.

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As the&nbsp;High Commissioner for a Day,&nbsp;Venkateswaran started her day by distributing tasks to her colleagues —&nbsp;High Commission's department heads. She also got a chance to interact with senior woman police officers and hosted press conferences.

The 18-year-old also launched a study tracing the impact of&nbsp;British Council STEM scholarships on Indian women participants.

"My day was full of diverse experiences which have really broadened my perspective on the role of women and their representation in fields of media, policing, and STEM. I am now more determined than ever to use my new knowledge and experience to help promote the equitable treatment of women everywhere," she said.

In her free time, she also&nbsp;helps the&nbsp; visually-impaired students, acid attack survivors and marginalised LGBT+ groups.

Chaitanya Venkateswaran, an 18-year-old girl from India, got a unique opportunity to become the British High Commissioner of India. Venkateswaran, who hails from India's capital city New Delhi, participated in an initiative run by the British High Commission, in which the organisation urges young Indian women, between the age of 18 and 23, to step into the role of being a world leader.

Chaitanya Venkateswaran, an 18-year-old girl from India, got a unique opportunity to become the British High Commissioner of India. Venkateswaran, who hails from India's capital city New Delhi, participated in an initiative run by the British High Commission, in which the organisation urges young Indian women, between the age of 18 and 23, to step into the role of being a world leader. Called the "High Commissioner for a Day", this initiative is an annual event that was first organised in 2017 and celebrates the International Day of the Girl Child, which is on October 11. Venkateswaran took to facebook to submit her entry for the role. The video, that was submitted on September 12, talks about the challenges and opportunities for gender equality in the age of COVID-19. × "I used to visit the British Council library in New Delhi when I was younger, and that's where I cultivated my love of learning. Building on that knowledge, to be the British High Commissioner for a day was a golden opportunity," Chaitanya Venkateswaran said. She was also featured in an interview with Jan Thompson, the Deputy High Commissioner for that day and acting High Commissioner to India on other days. × As the High Commissioner for a Day, Venkateswaran started her day by distributing tasks to her colleagues — High Commission's department heads. She also got a chance to interact with senior woman police officers and hosted press conferences. The 18-year-old also launched a study tracing the impact of British Council STEM scholarships on Indian women participants. "My day was full of diverse experiences which have really broadened my perspective on the role of women and their representation in fields of media, policing, and STEM. I am now more determined than ever to use my new knowledge and experience to help promote the equitable treatment of women everywhere," she said. In her free time, she also helps the visually-impaired students, acid attack survivors and marginalised LGBT+ groups.

Chaitanya Venkateswaran, 18-year-old Indian girl, becomes British High Commissioner

The Indian Air Force on Saturday displayed its aerial might by carrying out sorties in the Leh-Ladakh region near the Line of Actual Control (LAC).

India’s preparedness to protect its territory and uphold its territorial integrity was marked by sorties by C-17 Globemaster, Ilyushin-76 and Antonio-32 transport, along with the Apache and Chinook heavy-lift choppers.

The MIG-29s also carried out sorties from the base.

Transport aircraft flew at regular intervals to ensure supplies and equipment for troops in higher reaches during the winter months. The roar of fighter jets could be heard from a distance and evoked a sense of comfort over the level of preparations of IAF.

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“We're ready and well-positioned to take on our adversaries. Our deployments in assessed areas are complete and the winter challenges are being addressed. We've suitably assessed the adversary and have necessary plans in place,” Flight Lieutenant Neha Singh, IAF told ANI.

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Amid border tensions with China, IAF pilots deployed close to the LAC say that the force is adequately prepared to deal with any situation and equipped to tackle any threat.

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Flight Lieutenant Harparabh Singh, who flies MiG-29 fighter pilot, said IAF was well-prepared for any eventuality.

"The Indian Air Force is equipped and adequately prepared to tackle any threat. The personnel are motivated and well-trained," he said.

"Due to change in the weather, challenges are increasing. The morale of the air fighters is high and the availability of advanced equipment empowers them to face any enemy," Group Captain A Rathi, Chief Operating Officer, IAF, LEH airforce base told ANI.

IAF Chief Air Chief Marshal Rakesh Kumar Singh Bhadauria has pointed to the force's swift deployment along the India-China border after the tensions rose sharply in May and said that the force had clearly demonstrated its "resolve, operational capability and the will" to deal with any challenge posed by India's adversaries.

The IAF chief, who addressed the 89th Raising Day of the IAF at Hindon Air Force Station, had also commended all warriors for quick response.

"In the recent stand-off on our northern frontiers, we deployed our combat assets at short notice to handle any eventuality and provided proactive support to all the requirements of deployment and sustenance for the Indian Army. We have clearly demonstrated our resolve, operational capability, and the will to effectively engage the adversary, should the need arise," he had said.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The Indian Air Force on Saturday displayed its aerial might by carrying out sorties in the Leh-Ladakh region near the Line of Actual Control (LAC). India’s preparedness to protect its territory and uphold its territorial integrity was marked by sorties by C-17 Globemaster, Ilyushin-76 and Antonio-32 transport, along with the Apache and Chinook heavy-lift choppers.

The Indian Air Force on Saturday displayed its aerial might by carrying out sorties in the Leh-Ladakh region near the Line of Actual Control (LAC). India’s preparedness to protect its territory and uphold its territorial integrity was marked by sorties by C-17 Globemaster, Ilyushin-76 and Antonio-32 transport, along with the Apache and Chinook heavy-lift choppers. The MIG-29s also carried out sorties from the base. Transport aircraft flew at regular intervals to ensure supplies and equipment for troops in higher reaches during the winter months. The roar of fighter jets could be heard from a distance and evoked a sense of comfort over the level of preparations of IAF. × “We're ready and well-positioned to take on our adversaries. Our deployments in assessed areas are complete and the winter challenges are being addressed. We've suitably assessed the adversary and have necessary plans in place,” Flight Lieutenant Neha Singh, IAF told ANI. #WATCH Indian Air Force's Chinook helicopter carries out sortie from its Leh airbase in Ladakh. pic.twitter.com/QO6zLqeNyI — ANI (@ANI) October 10, 2020 × Amid border tensions with China, IAF pilots deployed close to the LAC say that the force is adequately prepared to deal with any situation and equipped to tackle any threat. #WATCH Indian Air Force's Chinook helicopter carries out night sortie from Leh airbase in Ladakh pic.twitter.com/IV51ci3iWz — ANI (@ANI) October 10, 2020 × Flight Lieutenant Harparabh Singh, who flies MiG-29 fighter pilot, said IAF was well-prepared for any eventuality. "The Indian Air Force is equipped and adequately prepared to tackle any threat. The personnel are motivated and well-trained," he said. "Due to change in the weather, challenges are increasing. The morale of the air fighters is high and the availability of advanced equipment empowers them to face any enemy," Group Captain A Rathi, Chief Operating Officer, IAF, LEH airforce base told ANI. IAF Chief Air Chief Marshal Rakesh Kumar Singh Bhadauria has pointed to the force's swift deployment along the India-China border after the tensions rose sharply in May and said that the force had clearly demonstrated its "resolve, operational capability and the will" to deal with any challenge posed by India's adversaries. The IAF chief, who addressed the 89th Raising Day of the IAF at Hindon Air Force Station, had also commended all warriors for quick response. "In the recent stand-off on our northern frontiers, we deployed our combat assets at short notice to handle any eventuality and provided proactive support to all the requirements of deployment and sustenance for the Indian Army. We have clearly demonstrated our resolve, operational capability, and the will to effectively engage the adversary, should the need arise," he had said.

IAF's Chinook helicopter carries out night sortie from Leh airbase. Watch video

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Sunday said it had registered a case and taken over the investigation of the Hathras gang rape-murder of a 19-year-old Dalit woman.

The CBI registered the case on a complaint of the victim`s brother who alleged that an accused had tried to strangulate her sister in a millet field on September 14.

The case was earlier probed by the Uttar Pradesh Police. The agency took over the case following the a request by the Uttar Pradesh government and further notification from the central government.

The CBI said that it has constituted a special team to probe the case, which led to the widespread criticism of the UP government after the victim was hurriedly cremated by Hathras police on September 30.

The woman died at a Delhi hospital on September 29, a fortnight after she was allegedly raped at her village by four upper-caste men. 
&nbsp;

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Sunday said it had registered a case and taken over the investigation of the Hathras gang rape-murder of a 19-year-old Dalit woman.

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Sunday said it had registered a case and taken over the investigation of the Hathras gang rape-murder of a 19-year-old Dalit woman. The CBI registered the case on a complaint of the victim`s brother who alleged that an accused had tried to strangulate her sister in a millet field on September 14. The case was earlier probed by the Uttar Pradesh Police. The agency took over the case following the a request by the Uttar Pradesh government and further notification from the central government. The CBI said that it has constituted a special team to probe the case, which led to the widespread criticism of the UP government after the victim was hurriedly cremated by Hathras police on September 30. The woman died at a Delhi hospital on September 29, a fortnight after she was allegedly raped at her village by four upper-caste men.

CBI takes over Hathras gang-rape case, begins probe

India-China standoff: MiG 29, Chinook part of the operation in Ladakh

Inching closer to overtake the united states, India's coronavirus cases have now surged past the 7 million mark. In the last 24-hours, India has recorded 74,383 cases. Watch report,

Coronavirus pandemic: India COVID-19 cases cross 7 million mark

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Friday weighed in on the ongoing standoff between India and China at the Line of Actual Control (LAC). Pompeo asserted that there was a need for closer ties between India and the US in order to counter China. He warned of China's growing might on India's doorstep.

"They absolutely need the United States to be their ally and partner in this fight," Pompeo said of his four-way meetings earlier this week in Tokyo with his counterparts from India, Japan and Australia. He said this in a radio interview with hot Larry O'Connor.

"The Chinese have now begun to amass huge forces against India in the north," Pompeo told radio host Larry O'Connor.

"The world has awakened. The tide's begun to turn. And the United States under President Trump's leadership has now built out a coalition that will push back against the threat," he said.

After his visit to Tokyo, Pompeo is due to travel to New Delhi with Defence Secretary Mark Esper for annual talks with Indian counterparts.

Deputy Secretary of State Stephen Biegun will also travel to India next week to prepare the meeting, the State Department said.

Tensions have soared between India and China since violent hand-to-hand fighting in the Himalayan region of Ladakh in June that left 20 Indian troops dead.

China has acknowledged suffering casualties but has not revealed any figures.

Citing national security grounds, New Delhi has since banned dozens of Chinese apps including TikTok, the blockbuster video-sharing platform which had counted on India as its largest overseas market.

Despite wide concerns about China, India has historically shied away from formal alliances with outside powers under its doctrine of "strategic autonomy."

Asked at the conservative Heritage Foundation about tensions with China, India's ambassador to the United States, Taranjit Singh Sandhu, stressed that the Asian powers had historic linkages and welcomed each other's scholars.

US-India ties have been rapidly growing and "this relationship has a much wider perspective than simply China," Sandhu said.

But he said he expected India and the United States to discuss boosting defense ties during the visit by Pompeo and Esper.

"I would underline that there is a great further potential for our defense cooperation," he said.

(With AFP inputs)

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Friday weighed in on the ongoing standoff between India and China at the Line of Actual Control (LAC). Pompeo asserted that there was a need for closer ties between India and the US in order to counter China.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Friday weighed in on the ongoing standoff between India and China at the Line of Actual Control (LAC). Pompeo asserted that there was a need for closer ties between India and the US in order to counter China. He warned of China's growing might on India's doorstep. "They absolutely need the United States to be their ally and partner in this fight," Pompeo said of his four-way meetings earlier this week in Tokyo with his counterparts from India, Japan and Australia. He said this in a radio interview with hot Larry O'Connor. "The Chinese have now begun to amass huge forces against India in the north," Pompeo told radio host Larry O'Connor. "The world has awakened. The tide's begun to turn. And the United States under President Trump's leadership has now built out a coalition that will push back against the threat," he said. After his visit to Tokyo, Pompeo is due to travel to New Delhi with Defence Secretary Mark Esper for annual talks with Indian counterparts. Deputy Secretary of State Stephen Biegun will also travel to India next week to prepare the meeting, the State Department said. Tensions have soared between India and China since violent hand-to-hand fighting in the Himalayan region of Ladakh in June that left 20 Indian troops dead. China has acknowledged suffering casualties but has not revealed any figures. Citing national security grounds, New Delhi has since banned dozens of Chinese apps including TikTok, the blockbuster video-sharing platform which had counted on India as its largest overseas market. Despite wide concerns about China, India has historically shied away from formal alliances with outside powers under its doctrine of "strategic autonomy." Asked at the conservative Heritage Foundation about tensions with China, India's ambassador to the United States, Taranjit Singh Sandhu, stressed that the Asian powers had historic linkages and welcomed each other's scholars. US-India ties have been rapidly growing and "this relationship has a much wider perspective than simply China," Sandhu said. But he said he expected India and the United States to discuss boosting defense ties during the visit by Pompeo and Esper. "I would underline that there is a great further potential for our defense cooperation," he said. (With AFP inputs)

Pompeo bats for closer ties with India, says China amassing huge force

Drones or unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) stand out among other threats in their innovative employment and destructive potential, Vice Chief of Army Staff Lt Gen S K Saini said on Saturday.

"Considering their (drones) low cost, multi-use and dense proliferation, the threat will no doubt increase manifold in the years to come," he said during a webinar organised by the Centre for Joint Warfare Studies (CENJOWS).

He said the "third dimension" threats like drones may take precedence in the near future and the Army needs to plan for them now.

"Both hard kill and soft kill counter-drone solutions, including swarm technology, are the need of the hour," Saini noted. 
He was addressing the webinar titled "Force Protection India 2020" during which various issues pertaining to requirements for armed forces' protection were discussed.

"Among other threats, drones and UAVs stand out in their innovative employment and destructive potential," Saini mentioned.

He said a large number of the Army's troops are deployed in extremely high altitude areas where the temperature touches -50 degrees celsius but India is still importing cold-weather clothing and equipment for them due to "lack of viable indigenous solutions".

"A collaborative effort needs to be put in this field to fulfil our vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat,"&nbsp;he added.

Saini said the Indian Army has evolved considerably in terms of modern arms, ammunition, protection, kitting and clothing but there is still much scope for innovation.

"There is a requirement to focus on night-vision goggles, combat helmets, bulletproof jackets, light portable communication sets and many more," he added.

The Army vice chief said the threat from improvised explosive devices (IEDs) is here to stay as it seems to be gaining traction as a favoured tool among terrorists and anti-national elements.

"The threat (from the IEDs) is sophisticated and can be used while avoiding direct contact. It ends up causing both physical and psychological trauma and seriously impairs own readiness, by forcing us to commit scarce resources for our own protection," he stated.

Technological innovation is key to combating the threat from the IEDs, Saini said.

"A combination of robotics, artificial intelligence and big data analysis could provide a possible answer," he added. 
Security of defence establishments and vital installations across the country is another key area where the Army has focused its efforts in the past few years, as these present lucrative and high profile targets, he said.

"Though the industry has stepped up to the challenge (of providing security to defence establishments), the solutions provided, however, lack innovation and integration," Saini mentioned.

He added that the effort in this field must be to ensure a reduction in manpower commitment by integrating physical and electronic surveillance and incorporating automation and innovation in perimeter fencing, intrusion detection systems, etc.

Saini said the Army's deployment footprint extends across the length and breadth of the country and across varying terrains and the sheer magnitude of its requirements presents a golden opportunity to the industry, scientists and entrepreneurs.

Drones or unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) stand out among other threats in their innovative employment and destructive potential, Vice Chief of Army Staff Lt Gen S K Saini said on Saturday.

Drones or unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) stand out among other threats in their innovative employment and destructive potential, Vice Chief of Army Staff Lt Gen S K Saini said on Saturday. "Considering their (drones) low cost, multi-use and dense proliferation, the threat will no doubt increase manifold in the years to come," he said during a webinar organised by the Centre for Joint Warfare Studies (CENJOWS). He said the "third dimension" threats like drones may take precedence in the near future and the Army needs to plan for them now. "Both hard kill and soft kill counter-drone solutions, including swarm technology, are the need of the hour," Saini noted. He was addressing the webinar titled "Force Protection India 2020" during which various issues pertaining to requirements for armed forces' protection were discussed. "Among other threats, drones and UAVs stand out in their innovative employment and destructive potential," Saini mentioned. He said a large number of the Army's troops are deployed in extremely high altitude areas where the temperature touches -50 degrees celsius but India is still importing cold-weather clothing and equipment for them due to "lack of viable indigenous solutions". "A collaborative effort needs to be put in this field to fulfil our vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat," he added. Saini said the Indian Army has evolved considerably in terms of modern arms, ammunition, protection, kitting and clothing but there is still much scope for innovation. "There is a requirement to focus on night-vision goggles, combat helmets, bulletproof jackets, light portable communication sets and many more," he added. The Army vice chief said the threat from improvised explosive devices (IEDs) is here to stay as it seems to be gaining traction as a favoured tool among terrorists and anti-national elements. "The threat (from the IEDs) is sophisticated and can be used while avoiding direct contact. It ends up causing both physical and psychological trauma and seriously impairs own readiness, by forcing us to commit scarce resources for our own protection," he stated. Technological innovation is key to combating the threat from the IEDs, Saini said. "A combination of robotics, artificial intelligence and big data analysis could provide a possible answer," he added. Security of defence establishments and vital installations across the country is another key area where the Army has focused its efforts in the past few years, as these present lucrative and high profile targets, he said. "Though the industry has stepped up to the challenge (of providing security to defence establishments), the solutions provided, however, lack innovation and integration," Saini mentioned. He added that the effort in this field must be to ensure a reduction in manpower commitment by integrating physical and electronic surveillance and incorporating automation and innovation in perimeter fencing, intrusion detection systems, etc. Saini said the Army's deployment footprint extends across the length and breadth of the country and across varying terrains and the sheer magnitude of its requirements presents a golden opportunity to the industry, scientists and entrepreneurs.

Threat from drones will increase manifold in years to come: Army vice chief

China has attempted to “seize” control of the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with India by force as part of its territorial aggression, US’ national security advisor has said, underlining that time has come to accept that dialogue and agreements will not persuade Beijing to change.

India and China are locked in a five-month-long tense border standoff in eastern Ladakh that has significantly strained their relations. Both sides have held a series of high-level diplomatic and military talks to resolve the border row. However, no breakthrough has been achieved to end the standoff.

“CCP’s (Chinese Communist Party) territorial aggression is also apparent on its Indian border where China has attempted to seize control of the Line of Actual Control by force,” US National Security Advisor Robert O’Brien said in a remark on China early this week in Utah.

The India-China border dispute covers the 3,488-km-long Line of Actual Control (LAC). China claims Arunachal Pradesh as part of southern Tibet, while India contests it. The Chinese territorial aggression is also true in the Taiwan Strait where the PLA (People’s Liberation Army) Navy and Air Force continue to conduct threatening military drills, O’Brien said.

“Beijing’s signature international development programme, One Belt One Road (OBOR), involves impoverished companies taking on opaque and unsustainable Chinese loans to pay Chinese firms employing Chinese labourers to build their infrastructure,” he said.

Many of these projects are unnecessary, shoddily built and are “white elephants”, the national security advisor said. “And now these countries’ dependence on the Chinese debt leaves their sovereignty eroded and with no choice but to hue to the party’s line on UN votes or any other issue that the Chinese Communist Party considers a red line,” he said. O’Brien also noted that China’s other international aid efforts include selling surveillance systems and similar tools of repression to “pariah regimes” around the world, including Venezuela’s Nicolas Maduro. “The time has come to accept that dialogue and agreements will not persuade or compel the People’s Republic of China to change. There’s nothing to be gained from looking the other way or turning the other cheek. We’ve been doing that for too long,” he said.

O’Brien said the US must stand up to the Chinese and protect the American people.

“We must promote American prosperity, practice peace through strength and advance American influence in the world,” he said, adding that under President Donald Trump’s leadership that is exactly what the US has done.

O’Brien said the Trump administration has adopted a competitive approach to China. That approach, he said, has two primary objectives. First, improve the resiliency of US institutions, alliances and partnerships to prevail against the challenges that China presents; and the second is to impose tangible cost in order to compel Beijing to cease or reduce actions harmful to America’s vital national interest and those of its allied and partner nations.

“President Trump has taken decisive action to meet these objectives. He is working to prevent companies that answer to the CCP’s intelligence and security apparatus,” O’Brien said.

Citing examples, he said Chinese telecommunications giants Huawei and ZTE have been prevented from accessing Americans’ personal and private data and national secrets. The Trump administration, he said, has also imposed import and export restrictions on US semiconductor technology and other exports going to Huawei and similar Chinese telecommunications corporations.

“Our democratic partners are starting to follow. Just last month, the UK joined democracies such as the Czech Republic, Denmark, Latvia, Estonia, Lithuania, Poland, Romania and Sweden in committing to using trusted suppliers to build their future 5G networks,” O’Brien said.

“Carriers like Jio in India, Telstra in Australia, SK and KT in South Korea, NTT in Japan, and others have prohibited the use of Huawei equipment in their networks. The Trump administration is investigating and prosecuting the economic espionage aggressively,” he said.

O’Brien said the Trump administration has strengthened its military relationships in the Indo Pacific.

“One important partnership which will be one of the most key partnerships for the United States in the 21st century, India, is thriving,” he said. He also noted that the US has signed extended US military access to Singapore’s air and naval bases. The country is also working closely with Japan, Australia and New Zealand to strengthen relationships with the Pacific Islands, especially Timor. It is also working closely with Mongolia.

However, O’Brien said even as the US competes with China, it does welcome cooperation where America’s interests align. “The US has a deep and abiding respect for the Chinese people and enjoys longstanding ties to that country, including our alliance in World War II,” O’Brien said.

China has attempted to “seize” control of the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with India by force as part of its territorial aggression, US’ national security advisor has said, underlining that time has come to accept that dialogue and agreements will not persuade Beijing to change.

China has attempted to “seize” control of the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with India by force as part of its territorial aggression, US’ national security advisor has said, underlining that time has come to accept that dialogue and agreements will not persuade Beijing to change. India and China are locked in a five-month-long tense border standoff in eastern Ladakh that has significantly strained their relations. Both sides have held a series of high-level diplomatic and military talks to resolve the border row. However, no breakthrough has been achieved to end the standoff. “CCP’s (Chinese Communist Party) territorial aggression is also apparent on its Indian border where China has attempted to seize control of the Line of Actual Control by force,” US National Security Advisor Robert O’Brien said in a remark on China early this week in Utah. The India-China border dispute covers the 3,488-km-long Line of Actual Control (LAC). China claims Arunachal Pradesh as part of southern Tibet, while India contests it. The Chinese territorial aggression is also true in the Taiwan Strait where the PLA (People’s Liberation Army) Navy and Air Force continue to conduct threatening military drills, O’Brien said. “Beijing’s signature international development programme, One Belt One Road (OBOR), involves impoverished companies taking on opaque and unsustainable Chinese loans to pay Chinese firms employing Chinese labourers to build their infrastructure,” he said. Many of these projects are unnecessary, shoddily built and are “white elephants”, the national security advisor said. “And now these countries’ dependence on the Chinese debt leaves their sovereignty eroded and with no choice but to hue to the party’s line on UN votes or any other issue that the Chinese Communist Party considers a red line,” he said. O’Brien also noted that China’s other international aid efforts include selling surveillance systems and similar tools of repression to “pariah regimes” around the world, including Venezuela’s Nicolas Maduro. “The time has come to accept that dialogue and agreements will not persuade or compel the People’s Republic of China to change. There’s nothing to be gained from looking the other way or turning the other cheek. We’ve been doing that for too long,” he said. O’Brien said the US must stand up to the Chinese and protect the American people. “We must promote American prosperity, practice peace through strength and advance American influence in the world,” he said, adding that under President Donald Trump’s leadership that is exactly what the US has done. O’Brien said the Trump administration has adopted a competitive approach to China. That approach, he said, has two primary objectives. First, improve the resiliency of US institutions, alliances and partnerships to prevail against the challenges that China presents; and the second is to impose tangible cost in order to compel Beijing to cease or reduce actions harmful to America’s vital national interest and those of its allied and partner nations. “President Trump has taken decisive action to meet these objectives. He is working to prevent companies that answer to the CCP’s intelligence and security apparatus,” O’Brien said. Citing examples, he said Chinese telecommunications giants Huawei and ZTE have been prevented from accessing Americans’ personal and private data and national secrets. The Trump administration, he said, has also imposed import and export restrictions on US semiconductor technology and other exports going to Huawei and similar Chinese telecommunications corporations. “Our democratic partners are starting to follow. Just last month, the UK joined democracies such as the Czech Republic, Denmark, Latvia, Estonia, Lithuania, Poland, Romania and Sweden in committing to using trusted suppliers to build their future 5G networks,” O’Brien said. “Carriers like Jio in India, Telstra in Australia, SK and KT in South Korea, NTT in Japan, and others have prohibited the use of Huawei equipment in their networks. The Trump administration is investigating and prosecuting the economic espionage aggressively,” he said. O’Brien said the Trump administration has strengthened its military relationships in the Indo Pacific. “One important partnership which will be one of the most key partnerships for the United States in the 21st century, India, is thriving,” he said. He also noted that the US has signed extended US military access to Singapore’s air and naval bases. The country is also working closely with Japan, Australia and New Zealand to strengthen relationships with the Pacific Islands, especially Timor. It is also working closely with Mongolia. However, O’Brien said even as the US competes with China, it does welcome cooperation where America’s interests align. “The US has a deep and abiding respect for the Chinese people and enjoys longstanding ties to that country, including our alliance in World War II,” O’Brien said.

‘Time to accept talks won’t make China change aggressive stance’: US NSA

New Delhi Municipal Council on Saturday, removed posters near Chinese embassy that gave wishes of Taiwan's national day. The posters -- bearing the words "Taiwan Happy National Day October 10" -- were issued by Delhi BJP leader Tajinder Pal Singh Bagga. The posters were removed within hours. The posters were put up on Friday night

The posters were stuck on the sidewalk of Shanti Path close to the embassy of China in Chankyapuri, New Delhi's diplomatic enclave.

"We have removed the posters which were put up close to Chinese embassy," an NDMC official said Saturday.

China does not recognise Taiwan and considers it part of the country.

Earlier, the Chinese embassy here had issued guidelines to the Indian media to not violate New Delhi's ''One-China'' policy during the national day of Taiwan.

"All countries that have diplomatic relations with China should firmly honor their commitment to the One-China policy, which is also the long-standing official position of the Indian government," the letter dated October 7 said.

"We hope Indian media can stick to Indian government's position on Taiwan question and do not violate the One-China principle," it said.

The letter was issued in the wake of advertisements put out by the Taiwan government in a couple of leading newspapers in India ahead of Taiwan's national day on October 10.

India Thursday took oblique potshots over the guidelines, saying there is a "free media" in this country.&nbsp;

New Delhi Municipal Council on Saturday, removed posters near Chinese embassy that gave wishes of Taiwan's national day. The posters -- bearing the words "Taiwan Happy National Day October 10" -- were issued by Delhi BJP leader Tajinder Pal Singh Bagga.

New Delhi Municipal Council on Saturday, removed posters near Chinese embassy that gave wishes of Taiwan's national day. The posters -- bearing the words "Taiwan Happy National Day October 10" -- were issued by Delhi BJP leader Tajinder Pal Singh Bagga. The posters were removed within hours. The posters were put up on Friday night The posters were stuck on the sidewalk of Shanti Path close to the embassy of China in Chankyapuri, New Delhi's diplomatic enclave. "We have removed the posters which were put up close to Chinese embassy," an NDMC official said Saturday. China does not recognise Taiwan and considers it part of the country. Earlier, the Chinese embassy here had issued guidelines to the Indian media to not violate New Delhi's ''One-China'' policy during the national day of Taiwan. "All countries that have diplomatic relations with China should firmly honor their commitment to the One-China policy, which is also the long-standing official position of the Indian government," the letter dated October 7 said. "We hope Indian media can stick to Indian government's position on Taiwan question and do not violate the One-China principle," it said. The letter was issued in the wake of advertisements put out by the Taiwan government in a couple of leading newspapers in India ahead of Taiwan's national day on October 10. India Thursday took oblique potshots over the guidelines, saying there is a "free media" in this country.

Taiwan National Day posters come up near Chinese embassy, NDMC removes them

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