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The twelfth BRICS summit will be held on November 17 with Chinese President Xi Jinping and PM Modi set to attend the meeting virtually.

Watch:&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iaf-chief-ready-for-a-two-front-war-warns-china-and-pakistan-332611/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/the-7th-india-china-corps-commanders-meet-on-october-12-332388">Also Read:&nbsp;&nbsp;India-China corps commanders meet on October 12</a>

The meeting between the Chinese president Xi Jinping and PM Modi will be the first since the border standoff along the Line of Actual Control(LAC).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/the-7th-india-china-corps-commanders-meet-on-october-12-332388">Also Read:&nbsp;&nbsp;India-China corps commanders meet on October 12</a>

The BRICS NSA meeting had taken place virtually in Russia with NSA Ajit Doval representing the Indian side and the Chinese side was headed by diplomat Yang Jiechi.&nbsp;

The theme of the meeting of the leaders of BRICS countries this time would be “BRICS Partnership for Global Stability, Shared Security and Innovative Growth”.

"The main purpose of the Russian BRICS chairmanship in 2020 is to contribute to raising living standards and quality of life our peoples," it said in a statement.

“Despite the current global situation due to the spread of the coronavirus infection, the activities under the Russian BRICS Chairmanship in 2020 are carried out in a consistent manner. Since January 2020 more than 60 events have been organized, including via videoconferencing," Anton Kobyakov, adviser to the President of the Russian Federation, said.

The twelfth BRICS summit will be held on November 17 with Chinese President Xi Jinping and PM Modi set to attend the meeting virtually. Watch: Also Read: India-China corps commanders meet on October 12 The meeting between the Chinese president Xi Jinping and PM Modi will be the first since the border standoff along the Line of Actual Control(LAC).

The twelfth BRICS summit will be held on November 17 with Chinese President Xi Jinping and PM Modi set to attend the meeting virtually. Watch: Also Read: India-China corps commanders meet on October 12 The meeting between the Chinese president Xi Jinping and PM Modi will be the first since the border standoff along the Line of Actual Control(LAC). Also Read: India-China corps commanders meet on October 12 The BRICS NSA meeting had taken place virtually in Russia with NSA Ajit Doval representing the Indian side and the Chinese side was headed by diplomat Yang Jiechi. The theme of the meeting of the leaders of BRICS countries this time would be “BRICS Partnership for Global Stability, Shared Security and Innovative Growth”. "The main purpose of the Russian BRICS chairmanship in 2020 is to contribute to raising living standards and quality of life our peoples," it said in a statement. “Despite the current global situation due to the spread of the coronavirus infection, the activities under the Russian BRICS Chairmanship in 2020 are carried out in a consistent manner. Since January 2020 more than 60 events have been organized, including via videoconferencing," Anton Kobyakov, adviser to the President of the Russian Federation, said.

PM Modi, Chinese President Xi to attend BRICS summit 'virtually' on November 17

Air Chief Marshal Rakesh Kumar Singh Bhadauria has sent a message to Pakistan and China. He said that the IAF is now prepared for a two-front war. Watch video.

IAF Chief: Ready for a two-front war, warns China and Pakistan

The government of India has planned to provide COVID vaccines to around 25 crore (250 million) people - of the country's 130 crore (1.3 billion) - by July 2021. Union Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan said the government would receive between 400 and 500 million vaccine doses for this purpose and that it would ensure "equitable access".

India's roadmap for vaccine distribution: Health workers on priority list

As part of India's contribution to help "friendly neighbour" Myanmar in its fight against COVID-19, Army chief Gen.

M M Naravane and Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla on Monday handed over 3,000 vials of Remdesivir to State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi.

Gen. Naravane and Shringla are here on a two-day visit from Sunday to Myanmar with an aim to further expand ties in a range of areas including connectivity, defence and security.

The Indian Army chief and the Foreign Secretary along with Ambassador of India to Myanmar, Saurabh Kumar, called on Suu Kyi at Naypyitaw on Monday during which they discussed important bilateral issues, the Indian embassy tweeted.

"As part of India's contribution to help a friendly neighbour Myanmar fight against COVID-19", General Naravane and Shringla handed over 3,000 vials of Remdesivir to Suu Kyi, it said in another tweet.

The intravenous antiviral drug, Remdesivir, is used to treat COVID-19.

US President Donald Trump, who tested positive for COVID-19 last week, is also being administered Remdesivir.

The visit by Gen. Naravane and Shringla to Myanmar assumes significance as it comes in the midst of the Indian Army's bitter border standoff with the Chinese military in eastern Ladakh as well restrictions on foreign visits due to the coronavirus pandemic.

It is Gen. Naravane's first visit to any foreign country after he took charge as the Chief of Army Staff on December 31 last year.

Myanmar is one of India's strategic neighbours and shares a 1,640-km-long border with a number of northeastern states including militancy-hit Nagaland and Manipur.

As part of India's contribution to help "friendly neighbour" Myanmar in its fight against COVID-19, Army chief Gen. M M Naravane and Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla on Monday handed over 3,000 vials of Remdesivir to State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi.

As part of India's contribution to help "friendly neighbour" Myanmar in its fight against COVID-19, Army chief Gen. M M Naravane and Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla on Monday handed over 3,000 vials of Remdesivir to State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi. Gen. Naravane and Shringla are here on a two-day visit from Sunday to Myanmar with an aim to further expand ties in a range of areas including connectivity, defence and security. The Indian Army chief and the Foreign Secretary along with Ambassador of India to Myanmar, Saurabh Kumar, called on Suu Kyi at Naypyitaw on Monday during which they discussed important bilateral issues, the Indian embassy tweeted. "As part of India's contribution to help a friendly neighbour Myanmar fight against COVID-19", General Naravane and Shringla handed over 3,000 vials of Remdesivir to Suu Kyi, it said in another tweet. The intravenous antiviral drug, Remdesivir, is used to treat COVID-19. US President Donald Trump, who tested positive for COVID-19 last week, is also being administered Remdesivir. The visit by Gen. Naravane and Shringla to Myanmar assumes significance as it comes in the midst of the Indian Army's bitter border standoff with the Chinese military in eastern Ladakh as well restrictions on foreign visits due to the coronavirus pandemic. It is Gen. Naravane's first visit to any foreign country after he took charge as the Chief of Army Staff on December 31 last year. Myanmar is one of India's strategic neighbours and shares a 1,640-km-long border with a number of northeastern states including militancy-hit Nagaland and Manipur.

India gives 3,000 vials of Remdesivir to 'friendly' Myanmar to help fight COVID-19

In a historic mission, India successfully tested a Hybrid weapon system ‘Supersonic Missile assisted release of Torpedo’ (SMART) on Monday.

"The @DRDO_India has successfully flight tested the Supersonic Missile assisted release of Torpedo, SMART. This will be a major technology breakthrough for stand-off capability in anti-submarine warfare. I congratulate DRDO and other stakeholders for this significant achievement," Defence Minister Rajnath Singh tweeted.

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The <a href="https://twitter.com/DRDO_India?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DRDO_India</a> has successfully flight tested the Supersonic Missile assisted release of Torpedo, SMART. This will be a major technology breakthrough for stand-off capability in anti-submarine warfare. I congratulate DRDO and other stakeholders for this significant achievement.
— Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) <a href="https://twitter.com/rajnathsingh/status/1313018850108084226?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 5, 2020</a></blockquote>
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It is a Hybrid weapon system where two-weapon capabilities are joined to make one weapon system that vastly expands the range and speed of a weapon system which has not changed much over the decades. 
 
SMART is a supersonic anti-ship missile with a medium-weight torpedo as its payload, together the weapon working as a supersonic anti-submarine missile.

According to the reports, the weapon will have a range of around 350 nautical miles (which is about 650 kilometers) and can be used to engage hostile submarines from nearly half a sea away.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a historic mission, India successfully tested a Hybrid weapon system ‘Supersonic Missile assisted release of Torpedo’ (SMART) on Monday. "The @DRDO_India has successfully flight tested the Supersonic Missile assisted release of Torpedo, SMART.

In a historic mission, India successfully tested a Hybrid weapon system ‘Supersonic Missile assisted release of Torpedo’ (SMART) on Monday. "The @DRDO_India has successfully flight tested the Supersonic Missile assisted release of Torpedo, SMART. This will be a major technology breakthrough for stand-off capability in anti-submarine warfare. I congratulate DRDO and other stakeholders for this significant achievement," Defence Minister Rajnath Singh tweeted. The @DRDO_India has successfully flight tested the Supersonic Missile assisted release of Torpedo, SMART. This will be a major technology breakthrough for stand-off capability in anti-submarine warfare. I congratulate DRDO and other stakeholders for this significant achievement. — Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) October 5, 2020 × It is a Hybrid weapon system where two-weapon capabilities are joined to make one weapon system that vastly expands the range and speed of a weapon system which has not changed much over the decades. SMART is a supersonic anti-ship missile with a medium-weight torpedo as its payload, together the weapon working as a supersonic anti-submarine missile. According to the reports, the weapon will have a range of around 350 nautical miles (which is about 650 kilometers) and can be used to engage hostile submarines from nearly half a sea away. (With inputs from agencies)

India successfully tests Supersonic Missile assisted release of Torpedo

Union minister Prakash Javadekar on Sunday alleged that parties opposing the newly enacted farm laws were acting as "middlemen for middlemen".

Talking to reporters on the second day of his visit to Goa as part of the ruling BJP's initiative to create awareness about the farm laws, Javadekar said the actual situation is that farmers earn less for their produce and customers have to buy it at higher rates.

The middlemen hike the prices and the farm laws deal with this problem by eradicating these middlemen, he said.

"Sometimes I feel the opposition parties have become middlemen for middlemen," he alleged.

Claiming that the agitation against farm laws will die out on its own, the minister said, "Falsehood has limited life while truth lives forever."

"The Congress and NCP launched their campaign to protest against the farm bills. I am going to ask them to look at their manifesto. Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has spoken about such (agricultural) reforms in his speeches. But, the Congress has now done a u-turn," he said.

He alleged that the opposition parties were spreading a "myth" that APMCs (agriculture produce market committees) will be shut down under the new laws, and government will stop purchasing the produce or the minimum support price (MSP) would be stopped.

"All these are lies," Javadekar said.

The BJP leader also said the conduct of opposition leaders in the Rajya Sabha over the passage of these bills was "condemnable and shameful".

Referring to a protest by a group of people on his way to Mapusa town on Saturday, Javadekar said he doubts that those who were protesting were real farmers.

He said 60 per cent population of the country is involved in the farming sector, but their contribution to the GDP (gross domestic product) is 15 per cent.

There is a need to increase the productivity and also give them markets outside the country so that their standard of living improves, he said.

Javadekar said when he was in school, the country's population was 30 crore, which has now increase to 138 crore, but despite that, theres no shortage of food.

"We are thankful to farmers who have been feeding our country," he said, adding that it is the responsibility of the government to increase their income.

The Farmers' Produce Trade and Commerce (Promotion and Facilitation) Bill, 2020, The Farmers (Empowerment and Protection) Agreement of Price Assurance and Farm Services Bill, 2020 and The Essential Commodities (Amendment) Bill 2020 became law after getting the presidential assent recently.

Javadekar refused to comment on the issue of diversion of the Mahadayi river water, considered as the lifeline of Goa, by neighbouring Karnataka.

Goa and Karnataka are locked in a dispute over sharing of the Mahadayi river water.

Goa has been strongly opposing the Kalasa Banduri project proposed to be built by Karnataka on the river, which is aimed at providing drinking water to three north Karnataka districts by diverting the Mahadayi water into the Malaprabha River.

Asked about the Centre's silence over the issue, Javadekar said, "The matter is before court and I will not comment in it. There is nothing which is pending with us because nothing comes to us. CM will answer questions on it."

The Supreme Court in an interim order in February this year allowed the plea of the Karnataka government for implementation of the final award by a tribunal for sharing of water between Goa, Karnataka and Maharashtra from the Mahadayi River.

It also said the interim order is subject to the final outcome of the petitions filed by the three states against the tribunal's award.

The Mahadayi Water Disputes Tribunal passed an order in 2018, allocating 13.42 TMC water (including 3.9 TMC for diversion into the depleted Malaprabha river basin) from the Mahadayi river basin to Karnataka.

Maharashtra was allotted 1.33 TMC water while Goa was given 24 TMC in the final decision of the tribunal.

Union minister Prakash Javadekar on Sunday alleged that parties opposing the newly enacted farm laws were acting as "middlemen for middlemen". Talking to reporters on the second day of his visit to Goa as part of the ruling BJP's initiative to create awareness about the farm laws, Javadekar said the actual situation is that farmers earn less for their produce and customers have to buy it at higher rates.

Union minister Prakash Javadekar on Sunday alleged that parties opposing the newly enacted farm laws were acting as "middlemen for middlemen". Talking to reporters on the second day of his visit to Goa as part of the ruling BJP's initiative to create awareness about the farm laws, Javadekar said the actual situation is that farmers earn less for their produce and customers have to buy it at higher rates. The middlemen hike the prices and the farm laws deal with this problem by eradicating these middlemen, he said. "Sometimes I feel the opposition parties have become middlemen for middlemen," he alleged. Claiming that the agitation against farm laws will die out on its own, the minister said, "Falsehood has limited life while truth lives forever." "The Congress and NCP launched their campaign to protest against the farm bills. I am going to ask them to look at their manifesto. Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has spoken about such (agricultural) reforms in his speeches. But, the Congress has now done a u-turn," he said. He alleged that the opposition parties were spreading a "myth" that APMCs (agriculture produce market committees) will be shut down under the new laws, and government will stop purchasing the produce or the minimum support price (MSP) would be stopped. "All these are lies," Javadekar said. The BJP leader also said the conduct of opposition leaders in the Rajya Sabha over the passage of these bills was "condemnable and shameful". Referring to a protest by a group of people on his way to Mapusa town on Saturday, Javadekar said he doubts that those who were protesting were real farmers. He said 60 per cent population of the country is involved in the farming sector, but their contribution to the GDP (gross domestic product) is 15 per cent. There is a need to increase the productivity and also give them markets outside the country so that their standard of living improves, he said. Javadekar said when he was in school, the country's population was 30 crore, which has now increase to 138 crore, but despite that, theres no shortage of food. "We are thankful to farmers who have been feeding our country," he said, adding that it is the responsibility of the government to increase their income. The Farmers' Produce Trade and Commerce (Promotion and Facilitation) Bill, 2020, The Farmers (Empowerment and Protection) Agreement of Price Assurance and Farm Services Bill, 2020 and The Essential Commodities (Amendment) Bill 2020 became law after getting the presidential assent recently. Javadekar refused to comment on the issue of diversion of the Mahadayi river water, considered as the lifeline of Goa, by neighbouring Karnataka. Goa and Karnataka are locked in a dispute over sharing of the Mahadayi river water. Goa has been strongly opposing the Kalasa Banduri project proposed to be built by Karnataka on the river, which is aimed at providing drinking water to three north Karnataka districts by diverting the Mahadayi water into the Malaprabha River. Asked about the Centre's silence over the issue, Javadekar said, "The matter is before court and I will not comment in it. There is nothing which is pending with us because nothing comes to us. CM will answer questions on it." The Supreme Court in an interim order in February this year allowed the plea of the Karnataka government for implementation of the final award by a tribunal for sharing of water between Goa, Karnataka and Maharashtra from the Mahadayi River. It also said the interim order is subject to the final outcome of the petitions filed by the three states against the tribunal's award. The Mahadayi Water Disputes Tribunal passed an order in 2018, allocating 13.42 TMC water (including 3.9 TMC for diversion into the depleted Malaprabha river basin) from the Mahadayi river basin to Karnataka. Maharashtra was allotted 1.33 TMC water while Goa was given 24 TMC in the final decision of the tribunal.

Middlemen for middlemen: Javadekar's jibe at parties opposing farm laws

The 7th India China corps commanders meet will take place on October 12, a meet that is expected to not only take stock of the situation on the ground but also measures on de-escalation by the Chinese side.&nbsp;

The 6th round of Indian and Chinese Senior Commanders took place on September 21, after which both sides issued a joint statement. The statement called for "earnestly" implementing the "important consensus reached by the leaders of the two countries" and among other things "stop sending more troops to the frontline".

Last week, the 19th round of Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination or WMCC talks between India and China happened in which both sides agreed to strengthen communication between ground commanders at Line of Actual Control to "avoid misunderstandings and to maintain stability on the ground."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chinese-light-tanks-no-match-for-indias-t-90-at-lac-say-indian-tank-commanders-332299">Also read:&nbsp;Chinese light tanks no match for India's T-90 at LAC, say Indian tank commanders</a>

A statement by the ministry of external affairs on the meet said both sides "noted that the agreement between the two Foreign Ministers should be sincerely implemented to ensure disengagement at all the friction points along the LAC."&nbsp;

While this was the 5th WMCC meet since the Galwan incident in June, the meet happened in the backdrop of 2 important meetings — the first in-person meeting between foreign ministers of 2 countries which happened in Moscow and 6th corps commanders meet, both the meet saw joint statements being issued.&nbsp;

The Moscow foreign-ministers pact called for the easing tensions via dialogue, disengagement and maintain a proper distance between troops at Line of Actual Control

The 7th India China corps commanders meet will take place on October 12, a meet that is expected to not only take stock of the situation on the ground but also measures on de-escalation by the Chinese side.

The 7th India China corps commanders meet will take place on October 12, a meet that is expected to not only take stock of the situation on the ground but also measures on de-escalation by the Chinese side. The 6th round of Indian and Chinese Senior Commanders took place on September 21, after which both sides issued a joint statement. The statement called for "earnestly" implementing the "important consensus reached by the leaders of the two countries" and among other things "stop sending more troops to the frontline". Last week, the 19th round of Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination or WMCC talks between India and China happened in which both sides agreed to strengthen communication between ground commanders at Line of Actual Control to "avoid misunderstandings and to maintain stability on the ground." Also read: Chinese light tanks no match for India's T-90 at LAC, say Indian tank commanders A statement by the ministry of external affairs on the meet said both sides "noted that the agreement between the two Foreign Ministers should be sincerely implemented to ensure disengagement at all the friction points along the LAC." While this was the 5th WMCC meet since the Galwan incident in June, the meet happened in the backdrop of 2 important meetings — the first in-person meeting between foreign ministers of 2 countries which happened in Moscow and 6th corps commanders meet, both the meet saw joint statements being issued. The Moscow foreign-ministers pact called for the easing tensions via dialogue, disengagement and maintain a proper distance between troops at Line of Actual Control

The 7th India-China corps commanders meet on October 12

Pakistani troops on Sunday resorted to intense mortar shelling on forward areas along the Line of Control (LoC) in Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir, prompting befitting retaliation by Indian army, a defence spokesperson said.

There was no report of any casualty on the Indian side in the shelling, the spokesperson said.

"At about 3. 20 am, Pakistan initiated unprovoked ceasefire violation by firing with small arms and intense shelling with mortars along LoC in Mankote sector. Indian Army retaliated befittingly," the spokesperson said.

A police officer said the cross-border firing between the two sides continued till 5 am, causing panic among the border residents who were forced to take shelter in underground bunkers for their safety.

Pakistani troops on Sunday resorted to intense mortar shelling on forward areas along the Line of Control (LoC) in Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir, prompting befitting retaliation by Indian army, a defence spokesperson said.

Pakistani troops on Sunday resorted to intense mortar shelling on forward areas along the Line of Control (LoC) in Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir, prompting befitting retaliation by Indian army, a defence spokesperson said. There was no report of any casualty on the Indian side in the shelling, the spokesperson said. "At about 3. 20 am, Pakistan initiated unprovoked ceasefire violation by firing with small arms and intense shelling with mortars along LoC in Mankote sector. Indian Army retaliated befittingly," the spokesperson said. A police officer said the cross-border firing between the two sides continued till 5 am, causing panic among the border residents who were forced to take shelter in underground bunkers for their safety.

Pakistan shells forward areas along LoC in J&K's Poonch

The Patna district administration has identified 47 open grounds and 19 halls where political parties can schedule their public meetings during the Bihar Assembly elections, a top state government official said.

The number of participants, however, cannot exceed 100 people at such rallies till October 14, irrespective of the size of the ground.

"The district administration has, so far, identified 47 grounds and 19 halls in the district where election meetings or rallies could be held for campaigning in the assembly polls," Patna District Magistrate Kumar Ravi told PTI on Saturday.

He also said the district administration was open to accommodate more venues on the suggestions of parties.

Ravi said as per the latest Central government guidelines, from October 15, norms will be relaxed to allow up to 200 participants in a hall, while there is no limit of participants at open grounds, subject to strict observance of COVID-19 protocols.

Voting for 243 assembly constituencies in the state will be held in three phases -- October 28 (71 seats), November 3 (94 seats) and November 7 (78 seats).

The counting of votes will take place on November 10.

Campaigning for the first phase will begin after the last date of withdrawal of nominations on October 12.

Asked whether the historic Gandhi Maidan would be permitted as a venue for public meetings, Ravi said it has never been used for rallies after the announcement of the poll schedule.

"Whatever meetings or rallies that took place at Gandhi Maidan have been held prior to the declaration of the election schedule," he said.

The Patna district administration has identified 47 open grounds and 19 halls where political parties can schedule their public meetings during the Bihar Assembly elections, a top state government official said.

The Patna district administration has identified 47 open grounds and 19 halls where political parties can schedule their public meetings during the Bihar Assembly elections, a top state government official said. The number of participants, however, cannot exceed 100 people at such rallies till October 14, irrespective of the size of the ground. "The district administration has, so far, identified 47 grounds and 19 halls in the district where election meetings or rallies could be held for campaigning in the assembly polls," Patna District Magistrate Kumar Ravi told PTI on Saturday. He also said the district administration was open to accommodate more venues on the suggestions of parties. Ravi said as per the latest Central government guidelines, from October 15, norms will be relaxed to allow up to 200 participants in a hall, while there is no limit of participants at open grounds, subject to strict observance of COVID-19 protocols. Voting for 243 assembly constituencies in the state will be held in three phases -- October 28 (71 seats), November 3 (94 seats) and November 7 (78 seats). The counting of votes will take place on November 10. Campaigning for the first phase will begin after the last date of withdrawal of nominations on October 12. Asked whether the historic Gandhi Maidan would be permitted as a venue for public meetings, Ravi said it has never been used for rallies after the announcement of the poll schedule. "Whatever meetings or rallies that took place at Gandhi Maidan have been held prior to the declaration of the election schedule," he said.

47 open grounds, 19 halls to be used for public rallies during Bihar polls; only 100 people to be allowed

The testing capacity in the country has been ramped up at a significant pace to reach over 7.7 crores in October from just one in January this year, according to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) on Sunday.

The MoHFW also said that the increased pace of testing has led to "early identification, prompt isolation, and effective treatment of COVID-19 cases. These have eventually resulted in a sustained low Fatality Rate."

"India has scaled up its testing capacity from one in January to more than 7.7 cr in October. With progressively falling positivity rate, testing has worked as an effective tool to limit the spread of COVID-19 infection," a tweet by the MoHFW read.

As per the MoHFW, 7,78,50,403 tests for COVID-19 were conducted in the country on October 3 which marks a new high.

Further the positivity rate in the country is at 8.32 per cent currently, as per the Health Ministry.

With an increase of 1,069 deaths reported on Saturday, the COVID-19 toll surpassed 1 lakh in India, according to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW).

With the latest increase, the COVID-19 toll in the country now stands at 1,00,842.

Meanwhile, the country reported 79,476 new cases, taking the tally of people infected with coronavirus to 64,73,545, the Ministry said.

The total COVID-19 count includes 9,44,996 active cases and 54,27,707 cured, discharged, or migrated cases.

Meanwhile, the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said that India has maintained the top global ranking with maximum recoveries of COVID-19 patients and it has one of the lowest mortality rates in the world.

The recovery rate of COVID-19 patients now stands at 83.84 per cent and the total recoveries have surpassed the 54 lakh mark.

The testing capacity in the country has been ramped up at a significant pace to reach over 7.7 crores in October from just one in January this year, according to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) on Sunday.

The testing capacity in the country has been ramped up at a significant pace to reach over 7.7 crores in October from just one in January this year, according to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) on Sunday. The MoHFW also said that the increased pace of testing has led to "early identification, prompt isolation, and effective treatment of COVID-19 cases. These have eventually resulted in a sustained low Fatality Rate." "India has scaled up its testing capacity from one in January to more than 7.7 cr in October. With progressively falling positivity rate, testing has worked as an effective tool to limit the spread of COVID-19 infection," a tweet by the MoHFW read. As per the MoHFW, 7,78,50,403 tests for COVID-19 were conducted in the country on October 3 which marks a new high. Further the positivity rate in the country is at 8.32 per cent currently, as per the Health Ministry. With an increase of 1,069 deaths reported on Saturday, the COVID-19 toll surpassed 1 lakh in India, according to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW). With the latest increase, the COVID-19 toll in the country now stands at 1,00,842. Meanwhile, the country reported 79,476 new cases, taking the tally of people infected with coronavirus to 64,73,545, the Ministry said. The total COVID-19 count includes 9,44,996 active cases and 54,27,707 cured, discharged, or migrated cases. Meanwhile, the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said that India has maintained the top global ranking with maximum recoveries of COVID-19 patients and it has one of the lowest mortality rates in the world. The recovery rate of COVID-19 patients now stands at 83.84 per cent and the total recoveries have surpassed the 54 lakh mark.

India scales up testing capacity from 1 in January to over 7.7 cr in October: Health ministry

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Atal Tunnel in Himachal Pradesh’s Rohtang on October 3, which connects Solang Valley near Manali to Sissu in Lahaul and Spiti district. The Atal Tunnel is the longest highway tunnel in the world (9.02-km), built at an altitude of 3,000 meters.

Indian PM inaugurates Atal Tunnel | Designed for traffic density of 3000 cars, 1500 trucks

Union Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan on Sunday expressed hope that we should have "very significant control" over<a href="COVID-19"> COVID-19</a> by Diwali.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/with-75829-new-cases-indias-tally-crosses-65-lakh-mark-332396">Also Read:&nbsp;With 75,829 new cases, India’s tally crosses 65-lakh mark</a>

"...hopefully that in the next couple of months, maybe by Diwali time, we should have a very significant control over the coronavirus," Vardhan said.

Addressing the Nation First webinar series organised by Ananthkumar Foundation, he said experts like Dr Devi Prasad Shetty and Dr C N Manjnath will probably agree that after some time this will also become endemic like many other viruses which have come to the globe in the past.

"But, the virus has taught us a certain lesson, it has taught us there has to be a new normal and we need to be more diligent about, more cautious about our lifestyle...," he added.

Vardhan also expressed hope about having a vaccine against COVID-19 by the end of this year.

"We are not lagging behind anyone else in the whole world in our efforts to contribute towards the vaccine against COVID... In India we have about 7-8 vaccine candidates, three of them in the clinical trial phases and rest in the pre- clinical trials and by the end of this year we hope to be able to get a vaccine against COVID," he said.

The Minister said there was only one lab in February which has now increased to 1,583 nationwide, and out of this more than 1,000 are government labs.

The country is conducting about 1 million tests per day which is way ahead of the target, he said.

Noting that there is no more scarcity of PPE kits, ventilators and N95 masks in the country, Vardhan further said everyday five lakh PPE kits are produced in the country, while 10 manufacturers are producing N95 masks, and 25 producers are manufacturing ventilators.

Union Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan on Sunday expressed hope that we should have "very significant control" over COVID-19 by Diwali. Also Read: With 75,829 new cases, India’s tally crosses 65-lakh mark ".

Union Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan on Sunday expressed hope that we should have "very significant control" over COVID-19 by Diwali. Also Read: With 75,829 new cases, India’s tally crosses 65-lakh mark "...hopefully that in the next couple of months, maybe by Diwali time, we should have a very significant control over the coronavirus," Vardhan said. Addressing the Nation First webinar series organised by Ananthkumar Foundation, he said experts like Dr Devi Prasad Shetty and Dr C N Manjnath will probably agree that after some time this will also become endemic like many other viruses which have come to the globe in the past. "But, the virus has taught us a certain lesson, it has taught us there has to be a new normal and we need to be more diligent about, more cautious about our lifestyle...," he added. Vardhan also expressed hope about having a vaccine against COVID-19 by the end of this year. "We are not lagging behind anyone else in the whole world in our efforts to contribute towards the vaccine against COVID... In India we have about 7-8 vaccine candidates, three of them in the clinical trial phases and rest in the pre- clinical trials and by the end of this year we hope to be able to get a vaccine against COVID," he said. The Minister said there was only one lab in February which has now increased to 1,583 nationwide, and out of this more than 1,000 are government labs. The country is conducting about 1 million tests per day which is way ahead of the target, he said. Noting that there is no more scarcity of PPE kits, ventilators and N95 masks in the country, Vardhan further said everyday five lakh PPE kits are produced in the country, while 10 manufacturers are producing N95 masks, and 25 producers are manufacturing ventilators.

Virus has taught us to be more cautious about our lifestyle: Harsh Vardhan

In a gesture signifying close India-Kuwait ties, the Indian flag was at half-mast in the country and at all the Indian missions across the world on Sunday as New Delhi paid its homage to departed Amir of Kuwait, Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah. The Amir died last week on 29th September. He had served as the foreign minister of the country for over forty years and Amir for over fourteen years.

India's envoy to Kuwait, Sibi George called him a "great friend and well-wisher" of&nbsp;India.&nbsp;

"He contributed immensely in building our bilateral partnership. He visited India several occasions including his memorable State visit," said George.

"As Amir, he welcomed several hundreds of thousands of Indians to Kuwait. We cherish his special liking for Indians and the special care he took for Indians here," he added.

Over one million Indian community members are present in Kuwait, making them the largest expatriate community in the West Asian country.

The Envoy said, "with his passing away, the Indian Community in Kuwait has also lost a benevolent leader who showered special care and affection on them. Indians today are loved and respected in this country.".

The Indian flag was at half-mast at the Indian mission in Kuwait, with Indian diplomats and officials marking 2 minutes of silence in his honour at 11 am local time.

The Indian President and Prime Minister had also sent out condolence message on the demise of Kuwaiti leader. PM Modi in his message said,"His highness played a leading role in strengthening our bilateral relations, and always took special care of the Indian community in Kuwait". External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar had visited the Kuwaiti Embassy in New Delhi to sign the condolence book.

In a gesture signifying close India-Kuwait ties, the Indian flag was at half-mast in the country and at all the Indian missions across the world on Sunday as New Delhi paid its homage to departed Amir of Kuwait, Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah.

In a gesture signifying close India-Kuwait ties, the Indian flag was at half-mast in the country and at all the Indian missions across the world on Sunday as New Delhi paid its homage to departed Amir of Kuwait, Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah. The Amir died last week on 29th September. He had served as the foreign minister of the country for over forty years and Amir for over fourteen years. India's envoy to Kuwait, Sibi George called him a "great friend and well-wisher" of India. "He contributed immensely in building our bilateral partnership. He visited India several occasions including his memorable State visit," said George. "As Amir, he welcomed several hundreds of thousands of Indians to Kuwait. We cherish his special liking for Indians and the special care he took for Indians here," he added. Over one million Indian community members are present in Kuwait, making them the largest expatriate community in the West Asian country. The Envoy said, "with his passing away, the Indian Community in Kuwait has also lost a benevolent leader who showered special care and affection on them. Indians today are loved and respected in this country.". The Indian flag was at half-mast at the Indian mission in Kuwait, with Indian diplomats and officials marking 2 minutes of silence in his honour at 11 am local time. The Indian President and Prime Minister had also sent out condolence message on the demise of Kuwaiti leader. PM Modi in his message said,"His highness played a leading role in strengthening our bilateral relations, and always took special care of the Indian community in Kuwait". External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar had visited the Kuwaiti Embassy in New Delhi to sign the condolence book.

Indian flag flies at half-mast out of respect for departed Amir of Kuwait

Two officers of Indian Navy killed after a power glider they were flying lost control and crashed in Kochi early on Sunday.

According to reports, the officers took the glider as part of the training.&nbsp;

According to Navy spokesperson, the naval power glider was on a routine training sortie and took off from INS Garuda. It crashed near Thoppumpady Bridge close to the naval base at around 7 am. Lt Rajeev Jha and Petty officer Sunil Kumar, who were in the glider, were rescued from the crash site and shifted to INHS Sanjivani.

However, they were declared brought dead, the spokesperson said. The glider is being salvaged and a board of inquiry has been ordered by the Southern Naval Command into the incident, he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Two officers of Indian Navy killed after a power glider they were flying lost control and crashed in Kochi early on Sunday. According to reports, the officers took the glider as part of the training.

Two officers of Indian Navy killed after a power glider they were flying lost control and crashed in Kochi early on Sunday. According to reports, the officers took the glider as part of the training. According to Navy spokesperson, the naval power glider was on a routine training sortie and took off from INS Garuda. It crashed near Thoppumpady Bridge close to the naval base at around 7 am. Lt Rajeev Jha and Petty officer Sunil Kumar, who were in the glider, were rescued from the crash site and shifted to INHS Sanjivani. However, they were declared brought dead, the spokesperson said. The glider is being salvaged and a board of inquiry has been ordered by the Southern Naval Command into the incident, he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Two Indian Navy officers killed as glider crashes during training session in Kochi

The Uttar Pradesh state government has transferred the Hathras rape case to the CBI for further investigation.

Hathras rape and murder: State govt transfers case to CBI

The Indian delegation will visit Myanmar on October 4 for a two-day visit. Chief of Army Staff General MM Naravane and Foreign Secretary Harsh Shringla will be a part of this delegation that will call on the State Counsellor of Myanmar, Daw Aung San Suu Kyi and Commander-in-Chief of the Myanmar Armed Forces, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing.

Indian delegation visits Myanmar as it goes to polls

India and Bangladesh Navy took part in a bilateral exercise in the Bay of Bengal on Saturday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-a-historic-first-two-women-officers-to-operate-helicopters-from-indian-navy-warships-329187">Also Read:&nbsp;In historic first, two women officers to operate helicopters from Indian Navy warships&nbsp;</a>

Indian Navy ships Kiltan, Khukri and Bangladesh Navy ships Abu Bakr, Prottoy&nbsp;&amp; MPA undertook manoeuvres, surface drills, helo operations and seamanship evolutions.

IN &amp; BN ships will undertake the third edition of Coordinated Patrol CORPAT along IMBL on October 4 and 5.

The edition of Bongosagar and IN-BN CORPAT is significant in view of Mujib Barsho, 100th birth anniversary of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.&nbsp;

In September, India Navy had conducted exercises with the Russian naval forces in the Bay of Bengal. Indian and Russian naval forces had carried out several drills including surface and anti-aircraft drills, helicopter operations, manoeuvres and cross-deck flying as part of the exercise.

The Russian navy had deployed its destroyer Admiral Vinogradov, destroyer Admiral Tributs and fleet tanker Boris Butoma of the Pacific Fleet based at Vladivostok. The Indian Navy on its part deployed guided-missile destroyer Ranvijay and fleet tanker Shakti along with helicopters. 
&nbsp; 
India's naval drill in the Bay of Bengal assumes particular significance given the tense situation at the LAC where tensions between Indian and Chinese troops has been festering for several months now ever since the Galwan Valley clash on June 15. 
&nbsp;

India and Bangladesh Navy took part in a bilateral exercise in the Bay of Bengal on Saturday. Also Read: In historic first, two women officers to operate helicopters from Indian Navy warships Indian Navy ships Kiltan, Khukri and Bangladesh Navy ships Abu Bakr, Prottoy & MPA undertook manoeuvres, surface drills, helo operations and seamanship evolutions.

India and Bangladesh Navy took part in a bilateral exercise in the Bay of Bengal on Saturday. Also Read: In historic first, two women officers to operate helicopters from Indian Navy warships Indian Navy ships Kiltan, Khukri and Bangladesh Navy ships Abu Bakr, Prottoy & MPA undertook manoeuvres, surface drills, helo operations and seamanship evolutions. IN & BN ships will undertake the third edition of Coordinated Patrol CORPAT along IMBL on October 4 and 5. The edition of Bongosagar and IN-BN CORPAT is significant in view of Mujib Barsho, 100th birth anniversary of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. In September, India Navy had conducted exercises with the Russian naval forces in the Bay of Bengal. Indian and Russian naval forces had carried out several drills including surface and anti-aircraft drills, helicopter operations, manoeuvres and cross-deck flying as part of the exercise. The Russian navy had deployed its destroyer Admiral Vinogradov, destroyer Admiral Tributs and fleet tanker Boris Butoma of the Pacific Fleet based at Vladivostok. The Indian Navy on its part deployed guided-missile destroyer Ranvijay and fleet tanker Shakti along with helicopters. India's naval drill in the Bay of Bengal assumes particular significance given the tense situation at the LAC where tensions between Indian and Chinese troops has been festering for several months now ever since the Galwan Valley clash on June 15.

India, Bangladesh conduct naval exercise in Bay of Bengal

Virtual SIM cards pose a new headache for security agencies fighting terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir as their use in the valley has seen an increase among terror groups to connect with their handlers in Pakistan, officials said here.

The penetration of this new technology was found in 2019 when a request was sent to the United States to seek details from a service provider of "virtual SIMs" used by suicide bomber of Jaish-e-Mohammed terror group involved in the Pulwama attack that left 40 CRPF personnel dead.

However, a detailed investigation done by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and other security agencies indicated that over 40 virtual SIM cards were used in the Pulwama attack alone, and there are probably more of them floating in the cyberspace of the valley, the officials said.

It is a fairly new modus operandi wherein terrorists across the border are using "virtual SIM" cards, generated by a service provider from a foreign country.

In this technology, the computer generates a telephone number and the user downloads an application of the service provider on their smartphone.

The number is linked to social networking sites like WhatsApp, Facebook, Telegram or Twitter.

The verification code for activating the service is generated by these networking sites and received on the smartphone.

The officials said the numbers used were pre-fixed with a country code or Mobile Station International Subscriber Directory Number (MSISDN) number.

They said that, besides telecom companies in the US, Canada, the UK, Israel, numbers of Puerto Rico, a Caribbean island being controlled by the US, are doing the rounds in the market.

Every mobile phone instrument is sent for a detailed forensic analysis to have a thorough check to look for any telltale signs of use of virtual SIM cards, the officials said.

Technology has its pros and cons, and while fighting terrorism, the security agencies have to not only keep up the pace but also move a step ahead of those planning to misuse it, says an official.

The risk of forging identities during purchase of virtual SIM cards also runs high.

During investigation of the 26/11 Mumbai attacks, it was found that an amount of USD 229 was wired to Callphonex, via Western Union Money Transfer receipt number 8364307716-0, for activating the Voice Over Internet Protocol (VoIP) used during the strikes.

The money was received from 'Madina Trading' located in Brescia in Italy and sender was claimed to be Javed Iqbal, a resident of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

However, after Italian police arrested two Pakistani nationals in 2009, it was alleged that the firm had made nearly 300 transfers in the name of Iqbal, who probably had never set his foot in Italy.

The Italian police, while concluding the probe, had said the Brescia-based company made several transfers using the identity of innocent, unsuspecting persons, whose identity cards or passports might have been stolen.

Virtual SIM cards pose a new headache for security agencies fighting terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir as their use in the valley has seen an increase among terror groups to connect with their handlers in Pakistan, officials said here.

Virtual SIM cards pose a new headache for security agencies fighting terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir as their use in the valley has seen an increase among terror groups to connect with their handlers in Pakistan, officials said here. The penetration of this new technology was found in 2019 when a request was sent to the United States to seek details from a service provider of "virtual SIMs" used by suicide bomber of Jaish-e-Mohammed terror group involved in the Pulwama attack that left 40 CRPF personnel dead. However, a detailed investigation done by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and other security agencies indicated that over 40 virtual SIM cards were used in the Pulwama attack alone, and there are probably more of them floating in the cyberspace of the valley, the officials said. It is a fairly new modus operandi wherein terrorists across the border are using "virtual SIM" cards, generated by a service provider from a foreign country. In this technology, the computer generates a telephone number and the user downloads an application of the service provider on their smartphone. The number is linked to social networking sites like WhatsApp, Facebook, Telegram or Twitter. The verification code for activating the service is generated by these networking sites and received on the smartphone. The officials said the numbers used were pre-fixed with a country code or Mobile Station International Subscriber Directory Number (MSISDN) number. They said that, besides telecom companies in the US, Canada, the UK, Israel, numbers of Puerto Rico, a Caribbean island being controlled by the US, are doing the rounds in the market. Every mobile phone instrument is sent for a detailed forensic analysis to have a thorough check to look for any telltale signs of use of virtual SIM cards, the officials said. Technology has its pros and cons, and while fighting terrorism, the security agencies have to not only keep up the pace but also move a step ahead of those planning to misuse it, says an official. The risk of forging identities during purchase of virtual SIM cards also runs high. During investigation of the 26/11 Mumbai attacks, it was found that an amount of USD 229 was wired to Callphonex, via Western Union Money Transfer receipt number 8364307716-0, for activating the Voice Over Internet Protocol (VoIP) used during the strikes. The money was received from 'Madina Trading' located in Brescia in Italy and sender was claimed to be Javed Iqbal, a resident of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). However, after Italian police arrested two Pakistani nationals in 2009, it was alleged that the firm had made nearly 300 transfers in the name of Iqbal, who probably had never set his foot in Italy. The Italian police, while concluding the probe, had said the Brescia-based company made several transfers using the identity of innocent, unsuspecting persons, whose identity cards or passports might have been stolen.

Virtual SIM cards pose new headache for security agencies in Jammu and Kashmir

Nine girls from a Naxal affected area of Chhattisgarh, who trained on a helipad in the absence of a proper field, have been selected for the junior national hockey trial camp.

Beginning their battle against the odds about four years ago, the girls in the age group of 14-17 years have been trained by paramilitary force Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) that is deployed in the Kondagaon district of the state for anti-Maoist operations.

"Nine tribal girls who began their hockey training with the ITBP academy run by the 41st battalion have been selected for the Hockey India sub-junior and junior national trial camp," a senior ITBP officer told PTI.

"These girls were encouraged to take up the game in 2016 by the force.

They study at the kanya ashram (girls school) in Mardapal area of the district," the official said.

The camp will be held later this month and the girls have been issued permanent ID cards by Hockey India recently, he added.

Their coach and ITBP head constable Surya Smit said the girls "can do wonders if given more exposure and better facilities".

"We have provided them the basic hockey-playing gear, equipment and uniform. They have built their capabilities slowly but steadily," he said.

The girls, however, rued the lack of facilities to pursue their dream of playing in the national women's hockey team and appealed to Union sports minister Kiren Rijiju to help them get access to a proper playing field.

"We had read in our school book that hockey is our national game but knew nothing about it till 2016 when ITBP took us under its wings.

We practise on a helipad near the Mardapal police camp which is the only open space available," Sulochana Netam, one of the players, said.

"The helipad is partly cemented and the rest of the ground is uneven. There is a fear of getting injured and playing on such a ground is difficult too. We request Union sports minister Mr Kiren Rijiju to help us in getting a proper playing field," she said.

Netam, who plays in the center-forward position, says they take out time from their study schedule to ensure they never miss hockey practice.

Sevanti Poyam, the team's goal keeper, said they have played in state-level tournaments but aspire to display their skills in the national league and make their "country, state and family proud."

At least 55 girls from the local area that includes tribal regions are being trained by the ITBP in hockey apart from some others in football, the officer said.

The ITBP, that functions under the Union home ministry, is primarily tasked to guard the 3,488 kms Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China apart from undertaking anti-Naxal operations.

Nine girls from a Naxal affected area of Chhattisgarh, who trained on a helipad in the absence of a proper field, have been selected for the junior national hockey trial camp.

Nine girls from a Naxal affected area of Chhattisgarh, who trained on a helipad in the absence of a proper field, have been selected for the junior national hockey trial camp. Beginning their battle against the odds about four years ago, the girls in the age group of 14-17 years have been trained by paramilitary force Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) that is deployed in the Kondagaon district of the state for anti-Maoist operations. "Nine tribal girls who began their hockey training with the ITBP academy run by the 41st battalion have been selected for the Hockey India sub-junior and junior national trial camp," a senior ITBP officer told PTI. "These girls were encouraged to take up the game in 2016 by the force. They study at the kanya ashram (girls school) in Mardapal area of the district," the official said. The camp will be held later this month and the girls have been issued permanent ID cards by Hockey India recently, he added. Their coach and ITBP head constable Surya Smit said the girls "can do wonders if given more exposure and better facilities". "We have provided them the basic hockey-playing gear, equipment and uniform. They have built their capabilities slowly but steadily," he said. The girls, however, rued the lack of facilities to pursue their dream of playing in the national women's hockey team and appealed to Union sports minister Kiren Rijiju to help them get access to a proper playing field. "We had read in our school book that hockey is our national game but knew nothing about it till 2016 when ITBP took us under its wings. We practise on a helipad near the Mardapal police camp which is the only open space available," Sulochana Netam, one of the players, said. "The helipad is partly cemented and the rest of the ground is uneven. There is a fear of getting injured and playing on such a ground is difficult too. We request Union sports minister Mr Kiren Rijiju to help us in getting a proper playing field," she said. Netam, who plays in the center-forward position, says they take out time from their study schedule to ensure they never miss hockey practice. Sevanti Poyam, the team's goal keeper, said they have played in state-level tournaments but aspire to display their skills in the national league and make their "country, state and family proud." At least 55 girls from the local area that includes tribal regions are being trained by the ITBP in hockey apart from some others in football, the officer said. The ITBP, that functions under the Union home ministry, is primarily tasked to guard the 3,488 kms Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China apart from undertaking anti-Naxal operations.

Girls trained in remote Naxal area of Chhattisgarh selected for junior hockey national trials

The death toll due to deadly coronavirus in India reached 1,01,782 and the infection tally climbed to 65,49,374, while the number of people who have recuperated from the disease crossed 55 lakh pushing the recovery rate to 83.84%, the Union Health Ministry said on Sunday.

The count of covid-19 cases stands at 65,49,374 of which, there are a total of 9,37,625 active cases while 55,09,967 patients have been cured/discharged/migrated, the Union health ministry said.

The death toll due to coronavirus in the country rose to 1,01,782 after 940 deaths deaths due to covid-19 were reported in the last 24 hours.

Maharashtra continues to be the worst-hit state with 14,16,513 cases, including 37,480 deaths, followed by Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh, and Delhi.

According to Indian Council of Medical Research data, India tested 11,42,131 samples in a day on Saturday, taking the total tests so far to 7,89,92,534.

(With inputs from agencies)

The death toll due to deadly coronavirus in India reached 1,01,782 and the infection tally climbed to 65,49,374, while the number of people who have recuperated from the disease crossed 55 lakh pushing the recovery rate to 83.

The death toll due to deadly coronavirus in India reached 1,01,782 and the infection tally climbed to 65,49,374, while the number of people who have recuperated from the disease crossed 55 lakh pushing the recovery rate to 83.84%, the Union Health Ministry said on Sunday. The count of covid-19 cases stands at 65,49,374 of which, there are a total of 9,37,625 active cases while 55,09,967 patients have been cured/discharged/migrated, the Union health ministry said. The death toll due to coronavirus in the country rose to 1,01,782 after 940 deaths deaths due to covid-19 were reported in the last 24 hours. Maharashtra continues to be the worst-hit state with 14,16,513 cases, including 37,480 deaths, followed by Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh, and Delhi. According to Indian Council of Medical Research data, India tested 11,42,131 samples in a day on Saturday, taking the total tests so far to 7,89,92,534. (With inputs from agencies)

With 75,829 new cases, India’s tally crosses 65-lakh mark

At least 76.62 per cent of the active coronavirus cases have been reported from 10 states and union territories (UTs), the Union Health Ministry said on Friday. According to the ministry, Maharashtra is leading the states` tally with more than 2.5 lakh cases. Karnataka follows with more than 1 lakh cases.

The government informed that active cases contribute only 14.74 per cent to the positive caseload of the country.As per the health ministry data, Maharashtra alone has contributed to about 2,59,490 new COVID-19 cases, while Andhra Pradesh has reported at least 57,858 cases.&nbsp;

Karnataka has contributed to 1,10,431 cases, Uttar Pradesh has witnessed 50,378 cases, Tamil Nadu has reported 46,396 cases, Odisha is contributing to 31,795 cases, Kerala has seen 72,418 cases, while Assam has reported 34,163 cases. Telangana has reported 28,620 cases and Chhattisgarh has reported 30,468 cases.

So far, India has reported about 6.39 million COVID-19 cases and 99,773 deaths due to the virus. About 78,877 recoveries have been registered in the last 24 hours in the country. This has resulted in a continuous increase in the national recovery rate, which is currently pegged at 83.70 per cent.

"India`s total recoveries are 53,52,078 till date. The last 10 lakh recoveries were added in just 12 days. About 10 States and UTs account for 72 per cent of the newly recovered cases. Maharashtra has the highest number of newly recovered cases followed by Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka," the health ministry said in a statement.

The health ministry further said there are about 14 States or UTs in the country which have less than 5,000 active cases.A total of 81,484 new confirmed cases have been reported in the last 24 hours in the country.In the last 24 hours, Puducherry has alone contributed to about 4,994 new cases, while Goa has reported at least 4,977 cases.&nbsp;

Himachal Pradesh has contributed to 3,416 cases, Andhra Pradesh has witnessed 2,955 cases, Manipur has reported 2,402 cases, Chandigarh is contributing to 1,884 cases, Meghalaya has seen 1,750 cases, while Nagaland has reported 1,083 cases. Ladakh has witnessed about 1,067 cases, Sikkim has reported to 636 cases, Mizoram has witnessed 328 cases, Andaman and Nicobar Island has seen 172 cases while Daman and Diu, Dadar and Nagar Haveli has reported 113 cases.

About 1,095 COVID-19 deaths have been registered in the past 24 hours from 10 States and UTs accounting for at least 83.37 per cent fatality.Maharashtra reported 394 deaths followed by Karnataka and Uttar Pradesh with 130 and 80 deaths, respectively.&nbsp;

West Bengal has reported 59 fatalities, Tamil Nadu has witnessed 66 deaths, Andhra Pradesh has seen 41 mortality, Punjab has reported 45 deaths, Delhi has witnessed 40 fatalities. Kerala and Chattisgarh has witnessed 29 deaths respectively in the last 24 hours, said the government.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

At least 76.62 per cent of the active coronavirus cases have been reported from 10 states and union territories (UTs), the Union Health Ministry said on Friday. According to the ministry, Maharashtra is leading the states` tally with more than 2.

At least 76.62 per cent of the active coronavirus cases have been reported from 10 states and union territories (UTs), the Union Health Ministry said on Friday. According to the ministry, Maharashtra is leading the states` tally with more than 2.5 lakh cases. Karnataka follows with more than 1 lakh cases. The government informed that active cases contribute only 14.74 per cent to the positive caseload of the country.As per the health ministry data, Maharashtra alone has contributed to about 2,59,490 new COVID-19 cases, while Andhra Pradesh has reported at least 57,858 cases. Karnataka has contributed to 1,10,431 cases, Uttar Pradesh has witnessed 50,378 cases, Tamil Nadu has reported 46,396 cases, Odisha is contributing to 31,795 cases, Kerala has seen 72,418 cases, while Assam has reported 34,163 cases. Telangana has reported 28,620 cases and Chhattisgarh has reported 30,468 cases. So far, India has reported about 6.39 million COVID-19 cases and 99,773 deaths due to the virus. About 78,877 recoveries have been registered in the last 24 hours in the country. This has resulted in a continuous increase in the national recovery rate, which is currently pegged at 83.70 per cent. "India`s total recoveries are 53,52,078 till date. The last 10 lakh recoveries were added in just 12 days. About 10 States and UTs account for 72 per cent of the newly recovered cases. Maharashtra has the highest number of newly recovered cases followed by Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka," the health ministry said in a statement. The health ministry further said there are about 14 States or UTs in the country which have less than 5,000 active cases.A total of 81,484 new confirmed cases have been reported in the last 24 hours in the country.In the last 24 hours, Puducherry has alone contributed to about 4,994 new cases, while Goa has reported at least 4,977 cases. Himachal Pradesh has contributed to 3,416 cases, Andhra Pradesh has witnessed 2,955 cases, Manipur has reported 2,402 cases, Chandigarh is contributing to 1,884 cases, Meghalaya has seen 1,750 cases, while Nagaland has reported 1,083 cases. Ladakh has witnessed about 1,067 cases, Sikkim has reported to 636 cases, Mizoram has witnessed 328 cases, Andaman and Nicobar Island has seen 172 cases while Daman and Diu, Dadar and Nagar Haveli has reported 113 cases. About 1,095 COVID-19 deaths have been registered in the past 24 hours from 10 States and UTs accounting for at least 83.37 per cent fatality.Maharashtra reported 394 deaths followed by Karnataka and Uttar Pradesh with 130 and 80 deaths, respectively. West Bengal has reported 59 fatalities, Tamil Nadu has witnessed 66 deaths, Andhra Pradesh has seen 41 mortality, Punjab has reported 45 deaths, Delhi has witnessed 40 fatalities. Kerala and Chattisgarh has witnessed 29 deaths respectively in the last 24 hours, said the government.

76% active COVID-19 cases reported from 10 States and UTs: Health Ministry

Congress leaders Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Rahul Gandhi on Saturday met the family of the victim of torture and alleged gangrape in Hathras and said the party`s fight will continue justice is delivered.Priyanka Gandhi said the family wants a judicial inquiry into the incident and removal of the District Magistrate.

Priyanka Gandhi, who hugged the victim`s mother who was weeping, later told reporters that the family couldn`t see their daughter for the one last time after her death in a Delhi hospital and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath should understand his responsibility.&nbsp;

"The family couldn`t see their daughter for the one last time. UP CM Yogi Adityanath should understand his responsibility. Till the time justice is delivered, we`ll continue this fight," Gandhi said.

Priyanka Gandhi said that the aggrieved family wants adequate security. "

The family wants a judicial inquiry into the incident and removal of the District Magistrate. They also want security," she said.Rahul Gandhi said no power in the world can suppress the family`s voice.

The two leaders reached Hathras in the evening after the UP administration conveyed that a group of five persons can meet the victim`s family. Earlier, Priyanka Gandhi drove the vehicle towards DND flyway where police were present in strength and Congress workers had also assembled in support of their leaders.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister on Saturday announced a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the incident. It had earlier announced a probe by SIT. The 19-year-old woman died at Delhi`s Safdarjung hospital on September 29. All the four accused in the incident have been arrested.

Congress leaders Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Rahul Gandhi on Saturday met the family of the victim of torture and alleged gangrape in Hathras and said the party`s fight will continue justice is delivered.

Congress leaders Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Rahul Gandhi on Saturday met the family of the victim of torture and alleged gangrape in Hathras and said the party`s fight will continue justice is delivered.Priyanka Gandhi said the family wants a judicial inquiry into the incident and removal of the District Magistrate. Priyanka Gandhi, who hugged the victim`s mother who was weeping, later told reporters that the family couldn`t see their daughter for the one last time after her death in a Delhi hospital and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath should understand his responsibility. "The family couldn`t see their daughter for the one last time. UP CM Yogi Adityanath should understand his responsibility. Till the time justice is delivered, we`ll continue this fight," Gandhi said. Priyanka Gandhi said that the aggrieved family wants adequate security. " The family wants a judicial inquiry into the incident and removal of the District Magistrate. They also want security," she said.Rahul Gandhi said no power in the world can suppress the family`s voice. The two leaders reached Hathras in the evening after the UP administration conveyed that a group of five persons can meet the victim`s family. Earlier, Priyanka Gandhi drove the vehicle towards DND flyway where police were present in strength and Congress workers had also assembled in support of their leaders. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister on Saturday announced a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the incident. It had earlier announced a probe by SIT. The 19-year-old woman died at Delhi`s Safdarjung hospital on September 29. All the four accused in the incident have been arrested.

Priyanka and Rahul Gandhi visit Hathras, say victim's family wants judicial inquiry

Russia has said that it is working with India for "common approaches" for development in pacific and Indian ocean, even as both celebrate 20 years of establishment of "strategic partnership". Both sides signed the “Declaration on the India-Russia Strategic Partnership” in October 2000 during the visit of Russian President Vladimir Putin that year.

Russian envoy to India Nikolay Kudashev speaking on the occasion said, "strategic partners means to proceed from the unity of destinies and to form common approaches and views on common on issues directly connected to the existence of our countries and peoples".

Explaining,"These include jointly finding solutions to problem....working out common approaches to the vision of regional development: in Pacific and Indian Oceans, or in Persian Gulf."

The comments assume significance even as India and the United States are working on Indo-Pacific concept, which New Delhi has also raised with Moscow.&nbsp;

The Russian envoy mentioned how both countries are jointly dealing with "Covid-19 pandemic, countering new challenges and threats-- terrorism, drug trafficking, transnational organized crime, attempts to rewrite the history of the Great Victory".

Amid the COVID crisis, India had sent hydroxychloroquine used in the treatment of the disease to Russia. Russia is sending its COVID vaccine Sputnik V to India, but subject to regulatory approval in the country.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-journalist-dies-after-setting-herself-on-fire-332243">Russian journalist dies after setting herself on fire</a>

This year also marks 10 years since India and Russia elevated the relationship to the level of “Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership.&nbsp;

The envoy said, "Special and privileged partnership" can be described by "unprecedented, unparalleled level of confidence" and "it means a situation when partner’s views, opinions, positions are by default embedded in Moscow’s or New Delhi’s approaches to key problems of the day or to key problems of developing our bilateral relations."

Adding," future of Eurasia and other regions of the world belongs to this partnership"

Last month saw both Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar visited Moscow for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) meets. In November, Russia as the host is expected to host a virtual meeting of SCO and BRICS head of state.

Russia has said that it is working with India for "common approaches" for development in pacific and Indian ocean, even as both celebrate 20 years of establishment of "strategic partnership".

Russia has said that it is working with India for "common approaches" for development in pacific and Indian ocean, even as both celebrate 20 years of establishment of "strategic partnership". Both sides signed the “Declaration on the India-Russia Strategic Partnership” in October 2000 during the visit of Russian President Vladimir Putin that year. Russian envoy to India Nikolay Kudashev speaking on the occasion said, "strategic partners means to proceed from the unity of destinies and to form common approaches and views on common on issues directly connected to the existence of our countries and peoples". Explaining,"These include jointly finding solutions to problem....working out common approaches to the vision of regional development: in Pacific and Indian Oceans, or in Persian Gulf." The comments assume significance even as India and the United States are working on Indo-Pacific concept, which New Delhi has also raised with Moscow. The Russian envoy mentioned how both countries are jointly dealing with "Covid-19 pandemic, countering new challenges and threats-- terrorism, drug trafficking, transnational organized crime, attempts to rewrite the history of the Great Victory". Amid the COVID crisis, India had sent hydroxychloroquine used in the treatment of the disease to Russia. Russia is sending its COVID vaccine Sputnik V to India, but subject to regulatory approval in the country. Also Read | Russian journalist dies after setting herself on fire This year also marks 10 years since India and Russia elevated the relationship to the level of “Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership. The envoy said, "Special and privileged partnership" can be described by "unprecedented, unparalleled level of confidence" and "it means a situation when partner’s views, opinions, positions are by default embedded in Moscow’s or New Delhi’s approaches to key problems of the day or to key problems of developing our bilateral relations." Adding," future of Eurasia and other regions of the world belongs to this partnership" Last month saw both Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar visited Moscow for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) meets. In November, Russia as the host is expected to host a virtual meeting of SCO and BRICS head of state.

Working on common approaches with India in Pacific, Indian Ocean: Russia

India has reiterated its "No First Use" policy on nuclear weapons in the United Nations at the high-level meeting to commemorate the International Day for the Total Elimination of Nuclear Weapons.

India's foreign secretary Harsh V Shringla said, "India espouses the policy of "No First Use” against nuclear weapon states and non-use against non-nuclear-weapon states."

India adopted the "No first use" (NFU) policy in 1998 after the nuclear tests in Pokhran. China is the other country to adopt the NFU, which it did in 1964. Pakistan is the other state to possess nuclear weapons in the Indian subcontinent and does not follow the NFU policy.

FS reiterated India's "long-standing and unwavering commitment" to "universal, verifiable and non-discriminatory nuclear disarmament" leading to the complete elimination of nuclear weapons.

He explained,"We believe that nuclear disarmament can be achieved through a step-by-step process underwritten by a universal commitment and an agreed multilateral framework", calling for "meaningful dialogue" among all states possessing nuclear weapons "for building trust and confidence".

India has since 1998 tabled an annual resolution in the UNGA on ‘Reducing Nuclear Danger’ that calls for immediate steps to reduce the risks of "unintentional and accidental" use of nuclear weapons.

At the UN meeting, that coincided with the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, India also called for "immediate commencement" of negotiations on a Fissile Material Cut-off Treaty at the Conference on Disarmament, a multilateral disarmament negotiating forum based in Geneva.

Fissile Material Cut-off Treaty calls for halting the production of key "fissile" elements for nuclear weapons. The terms of the treaty are still to be negotiated, but Pakistan has been blocking much of the movement, saying it the treaty will impact its nuclear weapon production.&nbsp;

FS highlighted that "India is a key partner in global efforts towards disarmament and strengthening the non-proliferation order" hoping the international community will "mobilize global will towards a nuclear-weapons-free world."

India has reiterated its "No First Use" policy on nuclear weapons in the United Nations at the high-level meeting to commemorate the International Day for the Total Elimination of Nuclear Weapons.

India has reiterated its "No First Use" policy on nuclear weapons in the United Nations at the high-level meeting to commemorate the International Day for the Total Elimination of Nuclear Weapons. India's foreign secretary Harsh V Shringla said, "India espouses the policy of "No First Use” against nuclear weapon states and non-use against non-nuclear-weapon states." India adopted the "No first use" (NFU) policy in 1998 after the nuclear tests in Pokhran. China is the other country to adopt the NFU, which it did in 1964. Pakistan is the other state to possess nuclear weapons in the Indian subcontinent and does not follow the NFU policy. FS reiterated India's "long-standing and unwavering commitment" to "universal, verifiable and non-discriminatory nuclear disarmament" leading to the complete elimination of nuclear weapons. He explained,"We believe that nuclear disarmament can be achieved through a step-by-step process underwritten by a universal commitment and an agreed multilateral framework", calling for "meaningful dialogue" among all states possessing nuclear weapons "for building trust and confidence". India has since 1998 tabled an annual resolution in the UNGA on ‘Reducing Nuclear Danger’ that calls for immediate steps to reduce the risks of "unintentional and accidental" use of nuclear weapons. At the UN meeting, that coincided with the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, India also called for "immediate commencement" of negotiations on a Fissile Material Cut-off Treaty at the Conference on Disarmament, a multilateral disarmament negotiating forum based in Geneva. Fissile Material Cut-off Treaty calls for halting the production of key "fissile" elements for nuclear weapons. The terms of the treaty are still to be negotiated, but Pakistan has been blocking much of the movement, saying it the treaty will impact its nuclear weapon production. FS highlighted that "India is a key partner in global efforts towards disarmament and strengthening the non-proliferation order" hoping the international community will "mobilize global will towards a nuclear-weapons-free world."

India reiterates 'no first use' policy on nuclear weapons

Indian-origin billionaire brothers Mohsin and Zuber Issa are set to acquire a majority stake in the leading UK supermarket chain Asda from its US owner Walmart after a USD 8.8-billion deal was struck as part of a consortium involving private equity firm TDR Capital.

The Issa brothers, whose parents moved to the UK from Gujarat in the 1970s, own the Euro Garages chain of petrol stations as part of their EG Group business.

The supermarket deal, valued at around 6.8-billion pounds (USD 8.8-billion), follows an auction process for Asda over several months and returns the 71-year-old supermarket company back into British ownership after 21 years, a development welcomed by UK Chancellor Rishi Sunak.

"Great to see Asda returning to majority UK ownership for the first time in two decades today," Mr Sunak said on Twitter.

"The new owners have already committed to investing over GBP 1 billion in the next three years and increasing the proportion of UK-based suppliers. I wish them the best of luck," he said.

Announcing the deal, Walmart said Asda would keep its headquarters in Leeds in northern England, with chief executive Roger Burnley continuing to be in charge.

"We are very proud to be investing in Asda, an iconic British business that we have admired for many years. Asda's customer-centric philosophy, focus on operational excellence and commitment to the communities in which it operates are the same values that we have built EG Group on," Mohsin and Zuber Issa said in a statement.

The brothers, born in Blackburn in north-west England, pledged support for the long-term growth of the supermarket as they praised the chain's performance during the COVID-19 pandemic, demonstrating the "fundamental strength and resilience" of the business.

"We believe that our experience with EG Group, including our expertise around convenience and brand partnerships and our successful partnership with TDR Capital, can help to accelerate and execute that growth strategy.

"After a successful period as part of Walmart, we are looking forward to helping Asda build a differentiated business that will continue to serve customers brilliantly in communities across the UK," they said.

Robert Burnley welcomed the new ownership as an exciting new chapter and committed to delivering value to customers.

"In a constantly changing retailing environment, our new ownership will further enhance our resilience, whilst creating significant, additional opportunities to drive growth. For Asda colleagues, a strong and growing business is important for our long-term future," said Mr Burnley.

Walmart retains an equity investment in the business with an ongoing commercial relationship and a seat on the board.

The deal, which is subject to regulatory approvals, is expected to be completed in the first half of 2021.

Indian-origin billionaire brothers Mohsin and Zuber Issa are set to acquire a majority stake in the leading UK supermarket chain Asda from its US owner Walmart after a USD 8.

Indian-origin billionaire brothers Mohsin and Zuber Issa are set to acquire a majority stake in the leading UK supermarket chain Asda from its US owner Walmart after a USD 8.8-billion deal was struck as part of a consortium involving private equity firm TDR Capital. The Issa brothers, whose parents moved to the UK from Gujarat in the 1970s, own the Euro Garages chain of petrol stations as part of their EG Group business. The supermarket deal, valued at around 6.8-billion pounds (USD 8.8-billion), follows an auction process for Asda over several months and returns the 71-year-old supermarket company back into British ownership after 21 years, a development welcomed by UK Chancellor Rishi Sunak. "Great to see Asda returning to majority UK ownership for the first time in two decades today," Mr Sunak said on Twitter. "The new owners have already committed to investing over GBP 1 billion in the next three years and increasing the proportion of UK-based suppliers. I wish them the best of luck," he said. Announcing the deal, Walmart said Asda would keep its headquarters in Leeds in northern England, with chief executive Roger Burnley continuing to be in charge. "We are very proud to be investing in Asda, an iconic British business that we have admired for many years. Asda's customer-centric philosophy, focus on operational excellence and commitment to the communities in which it operates are the same values that we have built EG Group on," Mohsin and Zuber Issa said in a statement. The brothers, born in Blackburn in north-west England, pledged support for the long-term growth of the supermarket as they praised the chain's performance during the COVID-19 pandemic, demonstrating the "fundamental strength and resilience" of the business. "We believe that our experience with EG Group, including our expertise around convenience and brand partnerships and our successful partnership with TDR Capital, can help to accelerate and execute that growth strategy. "After a successful period as part of Walmart, we are looking forward to helping Asda build a differentiated business that will continue to serve customers brilliantly in communities across the UK," they said. Robert Burnley welcomed the new ownership as an exciting new chapter and committed to delivering value to customers. "In a constantly changing retailing environment, our new ownership will further enhance our resilience, whilst creating significant, additional opportunities to drive growth. For Asda colleagues, a strong and growing business is important for our long-term future," said Mr Burnley. Walmart retains an equity investment in the business with an ongoing commercial relationship and a seat on the board. The deal, which is subject to regulatory approvals, is expected to be completed in the first half of 2021.

Indian-origin billionaire brothers win bid to buy UK supermarket chain

Deaths due to COVID-19 and related complications in India have surpassed 100,000, official data showed as the pandemic continues to rage across the world's second-most populous country.

A total of 100,842 people have now died, figures from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) showed on Saturday.

India has the third-highest death toll in the world behind the United States and Brazil.

In terms of cases, India has recorded 6.47 million and is on course to overtake the US as the country with the most infections in the coming weeks.

India's population of 1.3 billion is, however, around four times larger than that of the United States, which has seen more than twice as many deaths, raising doubts about India's official numbers.

On Tuesday,&nbsp;India's lead pandemic agency released a survey suggesting that more than 60 million people -- 10 times the official figure -- could have contracted the virus.

At the same time, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government is pressing ahead with opening up Asia's third-largest economy even as virus cases surge.

A strict lockdown imposed in March not only failed to stop the spread of the virus but also caused misery for millions of people suddenly left jobless.

In the last quarter, the Indian economy -- which even before the pandemic was struggling -- shrank 24 percent, one of the steepest drops of any major economy.

International commercial flights remain suspended although limited services, many to allow citizens to return to their home countries, have been operating.

Trains, metros, domestic flights, markets and restaurants have already reopened or resumed service, with some restrictions.

On Wednesday, the government said that all schools could re-open along with cinemas and swimming polls, subject to certain conditions.

Deaths due to COVID-19 and related complications in India have surpassed 100,000, official data showed as the pandemic continues to rage across the world's second-most populous country.

Deaths due to COVID-19 and related complications in India have surpassed 100,000, official data showed as the pandemic continues to rage across the world's second-most populous country. A total of 100,842 people have now died, figures from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) showed on Saturday. India has the third-highest death toll in the world behind the United States and Brazil. In terms of cases, India has recorded 6.47 million and is on course to overtake the US as the country with the most infections in the coming weeks. India's population of 1.3 billion is, however, around four times larger than that of the United States, which has seen more than twice as many deaths, raising doubts about India's official numbers. On Tuesday, India's lead pandemic agency released a survey suggesting that more than 60 million people -- 10 times the official figure -- could have contracted the virus. At the same time, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government is pressing ahead with opening up Asia's third-largest economy even as virus cases surge. A strict lockdown imposed in March not only failed to stop the spread of the virus but also caused misery for millions of people suddenly left jobless. In the last quarter, the Indian economy -- which even before the pandemic was struggling -- shrank 24 percent, one of the steepest drops of any major economy. International commercial flights remain suspended although limited services, many to allow citizens to return to their home countries, have been operating. Trains, metros, domestic flights, markets and restaurants have already reopened or resumed service, with some restrictions. On Wednesday, the government said that all schools could re-open along with cinemas and swimming polls, subject to certain conditions.

India coronavirus deaths surpass 100,000; cases top 6.47 million

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