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Attacking the Congress, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said the country's defence interests were compromised for a long time as their governments kept "playing around with files" and delayed procurement of fighter jets, arms, ammunition and other strategic equipment.

Addressing public meetings in Himachal Pradesh after inaugurating strategically-important Atal Tunnel, the prime minister also took a swipe at the Opposition's protest against farm and labour laws, saying those parties also had similar ideas but lacked the courage to implement these measures because they focussed on elections while his government looked at the country's and farmers' welfare.

"Nothing is more important for us than the defence of the country. But for a long time, the country has also witnessed an era when the defence interests of the country were compromised. The Air Force of the country kept demanding a modern fighter plane, while they kept opening and closing files after files, and kept playing around with those files," he said at Rohtang after inaugurating the tunnel.

PM Modi's reference assumes significance in the wake of the government's repeated assertion that the UPA regime had delayed decisions on the acquisition of Rafale fighter jets from France.

"Be it ammunition, modern rifles, bulletproof jackets, equipment that are used in cold weather conditions, everything was kept in abeyance. There was a time when the strength of our ordnance factories would make many jitters, but the country's ordnance factories were left on their own," he said after inaugurating the 9.02-km tunnel, which reduces the travel distance between Manali and Leh by 46 km and the travel time by four to five hours.

It has been billed as the world's longest highway tunnel, connecting Manali and Leh and built at a cost of over Rs 3,000 crore.

Hitting out at the Congress, which headed the coalition government at the Centre during 2004-14, Modi cited a number of strategically important projects, from the Atal tunnel to the airstrip at Daulat Beg Oldi in Ladakh and Tejas fighter aircraft production, to assert that they were delayed or almost forgotten.

A world-class organization like the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited was created for indigenous fighter aircraft, helicopters, but attention was not given to strengthen it, he said.

The selfishness of people who had been in power for years prevented our military capabilities from being strengthened, Modi said. He questioned as to what "compulsion" and "pressure" might have been behind the delay in projects, without directly naming the Congress.

His government, the prime minister said, has deployed all its strength to develop border infrastructure, adding that never before has work been done at such a big scale, be it building roads, bridges, or tunnels.

For long, he said, border projects could never come out of the planning stage and those which did got stuck or were kept on the back burner and neglected.

The then prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee had inaugurated the approach road to Atal Tunnel in 2002, but the project was almost forgotten after his government was gone, Modi said, targeting the Congress-led UPA dispensation.

Work on only 1,300 meters was completed by 2013-14, he noted, adding that the project would have been completed by 2040 by this pace before his government took charge in 2014 and speeded it up at an unprecedented rate.

"Our govt increased the pace of construction from 300 meters/year to 1400 meters/year and completed the project in 2020," Modi said. In just six years the government completed the work of 26 years, he said.

He said that according to a 2005 assessment, the tunnel would have been ready in about nine and a half crore rupees but due to continuous delays, today it has taken about Rs 3,200 crore.

Just like the Atal tunnel, this treatment was meted out to several such projects, the prime minister said, adding that Daulat Beg Oldi airstrip remained closed for four to five decades. 
"There was no political will. I can talk about dozens of projects that are important from the strategic point of view, but for years they were neglected," he said, hitting out at the previous Congress-led governments.

In this context, he also referred to the Kosi mega-bridge in Bihar which was envisaged by the Vajpayee government and inaugurated by him last month.

Former Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister and veteran Congress leader Veerbhadra Singh recently said the project was originally envisaged by former prime minister Indira Gandhi in 1972, while a foundation stone was laid for the tunnel in 2010 by the then UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi.

Later, addressing his public meeting in more than six months ever since the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic forced a nationwide lockdown in March, Modi said the inauguration of the Atal tunnel is part of the central government's resolve that the benefit of development should reach every part of the country and to every person.

"The reason was that some districts did not serve the political benefit of some people. Now work is being done with new thinking of 'Sabke saath se, sabke vishvaas se, sabka vikaas ho raha hai' (Development for all is happening with help of everyone and with the trust of everyone)," Modi said at the public meeting in Sissu village of Lahaul-Spiti region of Himachal Pradesh. 
"There has been a transformation in the government's way of work. Now, schemes are not made based on how many votes are there in an area. Now the effort is that no Indian is left out," he said.

At his second public meeting at Solang Valley, Modi took a swipe at the Opposition's protest against farm reform laws, saying those parties also had the same idea but lacked the courage to implement these measures because they focussed on elections while his government looked at the country's and farmers' welfare.

Modi said those protesting against the laws wanted farmers to live in the previous century, and are now jolted by his government's attack on middlemen.

Attacking the Congress, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said the country's defence interests were compromised for a long time as their governments kept "playing around with files" and delayed procurement of fighter jets, arms, ammunition and other strategic equipment.

Attacking the Congress, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said the country's defence interests were compromised for a long time as their governments kept "playing around with files" and delayed procurement of fighter jets, arms, ammunition and other strategic equipment. Addressing public meetings in Himachal Pradesh after inaugurating strategically-important Atal Tunnel, the prime minister also took a swipe at the Opposition's protest against farm and labour laws, saying those parties also had similar ideas but lacked the courage to implement these measures because they focussed on elections while his government looked at the country's and farmers' welfare. "Nothing is more important for us than the defence of the country. But for a long time, the country has also witnessed an era when the defence interests of the country were compromised. The Air Force of the country kept demanding a modern fighter plane, while they kept opening and closing files after files, and kept playing around with those files," he said at Rohtang after inaugurating the tunnel. PM Modi's reference assumes significance in the wake of the government's repeated assertion that the UPA regime had delayed decisions on the acquisition of Rafale fighter jets from France. "Be it ammunition, modern rifles, bulletproof jackets, equipment that are used in cold weather conditions, everything was kept in abeyance. There was a time when the strength of our ordnance factories would make many jitters, but the country's ordnance factories were left on their own," he said after inaugurating the 9.02-km tunnel, which reduces the travel distance between Manali and Leh by 46 km and the travel time by four to five hours. It has been billed as the world's longest highway tunnel, connecting Manali and Leh and built at a cost of over Rs 3,000 crore. Hitting out at the Congress, which headed the coalition government at the Centre during 2004-14, Modi cited a number of strategically important projects, from the Atal tunnel to the airstrip at Daulat Beg Oldi in Ladakh and Tejas fighter aircraft production, to assert that they were delayed or almost forgotten. A world-class organization like the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited was created for indigenous fighter aircraft, helicopters, but attention was not given to strengthen it, he said. The selfishness of people who had been in power for years prevented our military capabilities from being strengthened, Modi said. He questioned as to what "compulsion" and "pressure" might have been behind the delay in projects, without directly naming the Congress. His government, the prime minister said, has deployed all its strength to develop border infrastructure, adding that never before has work been done at such a big scale, be it building roads, bridges, or tunnels. For long, he said, border projects could never come out of the planning stage and those which did got stuck or were kept on the back burner and neglected. The then prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee had inaugurated the approach road to Atal Tunnel in 2002, but the project was almost forgotten after his government was gone, Modi said, targeting the Congress-led UPA dispensation. Work on only 1,300 meters was completed by 2013-14, he noted, adding that the project would have been completed by 2040 by this pace before his government took charge in 2014 and speeded it up at an unprecedented rate. "Our govt increased the pace of construction from 300 meters/year to 1400 meters/year and completed the project in 2020," Modi said. In just six years the government completed the work of 26 years, he said. He said that according to a 2005 assessment, the tunnel would have been ready in about nine and a half crore rupees but due to continuous delays, today it has taken about Rs 3,200 crore. Just like the Atal tunnel, this treatment was meted out to several such projects, the prime minister said, adding that Daulat Beg Oldi airstrip remained closed for four to five decades. "There was no political will. I can talk about dozens of projects that are important from the strategic point of view, but for years they were neglected," he said, hitting out at the previous Congress-led governments. In this context, he also referred to the Kosi mega-bridge in Bihar which was envisaged by the Vajpayee government and inaugurated by him last month. Former Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister and veteran Congress leader Veerbhadra Singh recently said the project was originally envisaged by former prime minister Indira Gandhi in 1972, while a foundation stone was laid for the tunnel in 2010 by the then UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi. Later, addressing his public meeting in more than six months ever since the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic forced a nationwide lockdown in March, Modi said the inauguration of the Atal tunnel is part of the central government's resolve that the benefit of development should reach every part of the country and to every person. "The reason was that some districts did not serve the political benefit of some people. Now work is being done with new thinking of 'Sabke saath se, sabke vishvaas se, sabka vikaas ho raha hai' (Development for all is happening with help of everyone and with the trust of everyone)," Modi said at the public meeting in Sissu village of Lahaul-Spiti region of Himachal Pradesh. "There has been a transformation in the government's way of work. Now, schemes are not made based on how many votes are there in an area. Now the effort is that no Indian is left out," he said. At his second public meeting at Solang Valley, Modi took a swipe at the Opposition's protest against farm reform laws, saying those parties also had the same idea but lacked the courage to implement these measures because they focussed on elections while his government looked at the country's and farmers' welfare. Modi said those protesting against the laws wanted farmers to live in the previous century, and are now jolted by his government's attack on middlemen.

PM Modi inaugurates Atal Tunnel, attacks Congress

India-China standoff: How US drones along LAC can tilt the balance in India's favour against China

The standoff between India and China has been going on for over five months now. As per latest reports, China has deployed light tanks opposite the Indian territory in Ladakh. India has deployed tanks along the Line of Actual control as well and Indian tank commanders strongly feel that Chinese tanks will be no match for India's T-90 and T-72 tanks in case an armoured battle breaks out.

"I believe that in case there is a battle involving the tanks during the present situation and they deploy their light tanks, I can assure you that it won`t survive against our T-90s and the T-72s,"&nbsp;a tank commander told ANI&nbsp;on the condition of anonymity as he was not officially authorised to talk to the media.

China has recently deployed T-15 light tanks and the Chinese media has been claiming that these tanks will be effective in the mountainous region and in valleys. But Indian commanders maintain that India's T-90 and T-72 tanks along with BMP-2 infantry combat vehicles can operate in temperature ranges of minus 40 degrees to 50 degrees.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-successfully-test-fires-new-improved-version-of-nuclear-capable-shaurya-missile-332230">India successfully test-fires new, improved version of nuclear-capable Shaurya Missile</a>

Asked about the performance of the tank in the high mountainous terrain, the commander told ANI that&nbsp;the Russian-origin T-90 tank is very well-suited for operations in extreme cold weather conditions that exist in the country of origin of the tank. Almost all along the LAC, there are multiple locations where tanks have been deployed from both sides from Depsang plains in the DBO sector, the southern bank of Pangong lake including the Spanggur gap area and the Chumar-Demchok sector in the southern part.

ANI quoted sources as&nbsp;saying that&nbsp;the Chinese tanks and infantry combat vehicles including the T-99s and the PTZ had&nbsp;been deployed in significant numbers by the Chinese opposite Indian territory and backed by the long-range artillery and surface-to-air missile defence systems as part of its aggressive posturing against India since April-May timeframe this year.&nbsp;

(With ANI inputs) 
&nbsp;

The standoff between India and China has been going on for over five months now. As per latest reports, China has deployed light tanks opposite the Indian territory in Ladakh.

The standoff between India and China has been going on for over five months now. As per latest reports, China has deployed light tanks opposite the Indian territory in Ladakh. India has deployed tanks along the Line of Actual control as well and Indian tank commanders strongly feel that Chinese tanks will be no match for India's T-90 and T-72 tanks in case an armoured battle breaks out. "I believe that in case there is a battle involving the tanks during the present situation and they deploy their light tanks, I can assure you that it won`t survive against our T-90s and the T-72s," a tank commander told ANI on the condition of anonymity as he was not officially authorised to talk to the media. China has recently deployed T-15 light tanks and the Chinese media has been claiming that these tanks will be effective in the mountainous region and in valleys. But Indian commanders maintain that India's T-90 and T-72 tanks along with BMP-2 infantry combat vehicles can operate in temperature ranges of minus 40 degrees to 50 degrees. Also Read | India successfully test-fires new, improved version of nuclear-capable Shaurya Missile Asked about the performance of the tank in the high mountainous terrain, the commander told ANI that the Russian-origin T-90 tank is very well-suited for operations in extreme cold weather conditions that exist in the country of origin of the tank. Almost all along the LAC, there are multiple locations where tanks have been deployed from both sides from Depsang plains in the DBO sector, the southern bank of Pangong lake including the Spanggur gap area and the Chumar-Demchok sector in the southern part. ANI quoted sources as saying that the Chinese tanks and infantry combat vehicles including the T-99s and the PTZ had been deployed in significant numbers by the Chinese opposite Indian territory and backed by the long-range artillery and surface-to-air missile defence systems as part of its aggressive posturing against India since April-May timeframe this year. (With ANI inputs)

Chinese light tanks no match for India's T-90 at LAC, say Indian tank commanders

India's army chief MM Naravane and Foreign Secretary Harsh Shringla will visit Myanmar next week. The visit comes even as China has been trying to increase influence in India's neighbourhood.

This is the first visit of the army chief outside the country amid the COVID pandemic and India China tensions at the Line of Actual Control (LAC). Notably, army chief MM Naravane has served as India's defence attache to Myanmar in the past.

This will be Shringla's second trip outside the country amid the pandemic. He has already visited Bangladesh. Last week, he had a virtual meet with his Myanmar counterpart -- Permanent Secretary, U Soe Han. He informed that New Delhi would operationalise the Sittwe port in the first quarter of next year .

Shringla said, "Despite the challenges caused by the COVID pandemic, we are working towards operationalising the Sittwe Port by the first quarter of next year."

COVID crisis, the vaccine, Rohingya repatriation were other key issues of the meet.&nbsp;

On the security front, Myanmar recently handed over of 22 Indian insurgents which was "deeply appreciated by the Government of India and sends a strong message of deterrence to inimical elements on both sides," FS Shringla said at the meet.

India's army chief MM Naravane and Foreign Secretary Harsh Shringla will visit Myanmar next week. The visit comes even as China has been trying to increase influence in India's neighbourhood.

India's army chief MM Naravane and Foreign Secretary Harsh Shringla will visit Myanmar next week. The visit comes even as China has been trying to increase influence in India's neighbourhood. This is the first visit of the army chief outside the country amid the COVID pandemic and India China tensions at the Line of Actual Control (LAC). Notably, army chief MM Naravane has served as India's defence attache to Myanmar in the past. This will be Shringla's second trip outside the country amid the pandemic. He has already visited Bangladesh. Last week, he had a virtual meet with his Myanmar counterpart -- Permanent Secretary, U Soe Han. He informed that New Delhi would operationalise the Sittwe port in the first quarter of next year . Shringla said, "Despite the challenges caused by the COVID pandemic, we are working towards operationalising the Sittwe Port by the first quarter of next year." COVID crisis, the vaccine, Rohingya repatriation were other key issues of the meet. On the security front, Myanmar recently handed over of 22 Indian insurgents which was "deeply appreciated by the Government of India and sends a strong message of deterrence to inimical elements on both sides," FS Shringla said at the meet.

India's army chief, foreign secretary to visit Myanmar

India has surpassed the mark of 100,000 coronavirus deaths after the US and Brazil. The country has reported 169 deaths in the last 24-hours.

Coronavirus Pandemic: India recovery rate highest in the world

India has successfully test-fired a new version of nuclear-capable&nbsp;Shaurya missile on Saturday afternoon off the coast of Odisha.

This new version of the nuclear-capable missile will be&nbsp;be inducted in the strategic forces and is being claimed to complement the existing missiles in the same class. This missile, however, will be lighter and easier to operate as compared to the existing ones.

In the last phase while moving close to its target, the missile moves at hypersonic speeds, the sources said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-successfully-test-fires-brahmos-cruise-missile-with-extended-strike-range-of-450-km-331404">Also read:&nbsp;India successfully test-fires BrahMos cruise missile with extended strike range of 450 km</a>

This missile is a step further for&nbsp;Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)'s aim of becoming self-reliant&nbsp;in the field of strategic missiles and is a huge success for the&nbsp;Aatmanirbhar Bharat campaign launched by the Prime Minister.

The field where the missile was test-fired is off the coast of Odisha and can strike targets at around 800 kms.

This missile test has come only a few days after India successfully test-fired BrahMos supersonic cruise missile which can hit targets at over 400 kilometre range.

India has successfully test-fired a new version of nuclear-capable Shaurya missile on Saturday afternoon off the coast of Odisha. This new version of the nuclear-capable missile will be be inducted in the strategic forces and is being claimed to complement the existing missiles in the same class.

India has successfully test-fired a new version of nuclear-capable Shaurya missile on Saturday afternoon off the coast of Odisha. This new version of the nuclear-capable missile will be be inducted in the strategic forces and is being claimed to complement the existing missiles in the same class. This missile, however, will be lighter and easier to operate as compared to the existing ones. In the last phase while moving close to its target, the missile moves at hypersonic speeds, the sources said. Also read: India successfully test-fires BrahMos cruise missile with extended strike range of 450 km This missile is a step further for Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)'s aim of becoming self-reliant in the field of strategic missiles and is a huge success for the Aatmanirbhar Bharat campaign launched by the Prime Minister. The field where the missile was test-fired is off the coast of Odisha and can strike targets at around 800 kms. This missile test has come only a few days after India successfully test-fired BrahMos supersonic cruise missile which can hit targets at over 400 kilometre range.

India successfully test-fires new, improved version of nuclear-capable Shaurya Missile

Ahead of the elections in Myanmar India's Army Chief General Manoj Mukund Naravane is expected to visit Myanmar by next week. Foreign Secretary of India Harsh V Shringla will also accompany the Chief.

Indian Army Chief, Foreign Secretary to visit Myanmar: Visit amid Chinese influence in the region

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said the majestic Atal Tunnel, beneath the lofty Rohtang Pass in Himachal Pradesh`s Kullu district, would give new strength to India`s border infrastructure.

"It is an example of world-class border connectivity. There have been demands to improve border infrastructure but for a long time, such projects either couldn`t get out of planning stage or got stuck midway," Modi said in his address after dedicating the highway tunnel, one of the world`s most challenging and a marvel of engineering motorways, in the Himalayas to the nation.

The tunnel would be a lifeline for Ladakh and would boost border security.

Earlier, Modi inaugurated the 9.02km long Atal Tunnel from its south portal near here. It will connect Manali to the Lahaul-Spiti valley in Himachal Pradesh.

It is the longest highway tunnel in the world built at an altitude of 3,000 meters.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/worlds-longest-highway-tunnel-connecting-manali-with-leh-ready-after-10-years-327912">Also read:&nbsp;World's longest highway tunnel connecting Manali with Leh ready after 10 years</a>

Modi said the Atal Tunnel, the dream of former Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpaye, is going to be "Sanjeevani Buti" for the residents of Lahaul-Spiti, especially during winters when the entire district "gets covered under snow and road connectivity through the Rohtang Pass gets snapped.

Praising the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), a wing of the Defence Ministry, Modi said, "One of our top priorities is to strengthen the international border on all sides."

He blamed the previous government in the Centre for deliberately ignoring the projects of strategic importance.

"There is nothing more important for us than protecting the country. But the country has also seen a period when the defence interests of the country were compromised."

"Even in the case of Atal Tunnel, if the pace of the construction continued as in the previous governments it would have been completed by 2040," Modi, donning a Himachal cap, said.

"In the year 2002, Atalji laid the foundation stone of the approach road to the tunnel.

"After Atalji`s government, this work was forgotten. The situation was that by 2013-14, only 1,300 meters of the work for the tunnel was completed," said Modi.

"Work on Atal Tunnel was accelerated after 2014; in just six years, we completed the work of 26 years."

"My brothers and sisters of Himachal Pradesh can understand what it means to reduce the distance of three-four hours on the mountain with the completion of this tunnel," he said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said the majestic Atal Tunnel, beneath the lofty Rohtang Pass in Himachal Pradesh`s Kullu district, would give new strength to India`s border infrastructure.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said the majestic Atal Tunnel, beneath the lofty Rohtang Pass in Himachal Pradesh`s Kullu district, would give new strength to India`s border infrastructure. "It is an example of world-class border connectivity. There have been demands to improve border infrastructure but for a long time, such projects either couldn`t get out of planning stage or got stuck midway," Modi said in his address after dedicating the highway tunnel, one of the world`s most challenging and a marvel of engineering motorways, in the Himalayas to the nation. The tunnel would be a lifeline for Ladakh and would boost border security. Earlier, Modi inaugurated the 9.02km long Atal Tunnel from its south portal near here. It will connect Manali to the Lahaul-Spiti valley in Himachal Pradesh. It is the longest highway tunnel in the world built at an altitude of 3,000 meters. Also read: World's longest highway tunnel connecting Manali with Leh ready after 10 years Modi said the Atal Tunnel, the dream of former Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpaye, is going to be "Sanjeevani Buti" for the residents of Lahaul-Spiti, especially during winters when the entire district "gets covered under snow and road connectivity through the Rohtang Pass gets snapped. Praising the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), a wing of the Defence Ministry, Modi said, "One of our top priorities is to strengthen the international border on all sides." He blamed the previous government in the Centre for deliberately ignoring the projects of strategic importance. "There is nothing more important for us than protecting the country. But the country has also seen a period when the defence interests of the country were compromised." "Even in the case of Atal Tunnel, if the pace of the construction continued as in the previous governments it would have been completed by 2040," Modi, donning a Himachal cap, said. "In the year 2002, Atalji laid the foundation stone of the approach road to the tunnel. "After Atalji`s government, this work was forgotten. The situation was that by 2013-14, only 1,300 meters of the work for the tunnel was completed," said Modi. "Work on Atal Tunnel was accelerated after 2014; in just six years, we completed the work of 26 years." "My brothers and sisters of Himachal Pradesh can understand what it means to reduce the distance of three-four hours on the mountain with the completion of this tunnel," he said.

Atal Tunnel will give new strength to border infrastructure: Modi

In a development that will increase connectivity &amp; economic development in India's Northeast and Myanmar, India has an announcement that key Sittwe port in Myanmar's Rakhine state will be operationalized in the first quarter of next year, which is the period between January to March.

India's Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla during virtual Foreign Office Consultations between the 2 countries on Thursday said,"Despite the challenges caused by the COVID pandemic, we are working towards operationalizing the Sittwe Port by the first quarter of next year."

"With respect to the 69 bridges on the Trilateral Highway, I am happy to inform you that we will soon be moving forward with the tendering process," he said.

Port at Sittwe and IWT Terminals in Sittwe and Paletwa have been constructed with Government of India’s grant assistance in May 2017 at a cost of about US$ 78 million. A Port Operator has taken over the port operations at Sittwe from 1 February 2020.

Sittwe is part of India built mega Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project. The Project when completed, will improve connectivity with Myanmar, by creating transport corridor for shipment of cargo from the eastern ports of India to Myanmar as well as to the northeastern region of India via Myanmar.

Myanmar delegation was led by Permanent Secretary, U Soe Han at the virtual meet that saw several other issues being discussed.

During the meet, Foreign Secretary Harsh highlighting the "strong civilizational links", talked about the work India has "undertaken with the restoration of the famous Ananda Temple and are working on the conservation of some earthquake-damaged pagodas in Bagan". He expressed hope that Phase–1 will be completed "at the earliest which has been delayed due to the ongoing COVID pandemic."

On security cooperation, Foreign Secretary remarked how both countries "have remained sensitive to each other’s security concerns" &amp; "Myanmar’s handing over of 22 Indian insurgents has been deeply appreciated by the Government of India and sends a strong message of deterrence to inimical elements on both sides"

Interesting to note that Myanmar will be sending its representative to India's Information Fusion Centre for the Indian Ocean Region based in Gurgaon. The Fusion centre has detailed information on the developments in the Indian ocean.

On COVID vaccine, he said, "we stand committed to sharing our capabilities with our strategic partners, including Myanmar, in our collective best interest."

He also mentioned the Rohingya issue between Myanmar &amp; Bangladesh saying, "Our efforts towards ensuring an early, safe and sustainable repatriation of internally displaced persons to Myanmar will continue."

India has entered into trilateral cooperation with Japan on the Rakhine State in Myanmar under which New Delhi will create soft infrastructure for 15 schools.

In a development that will increase connectivity & economic development in India's Northeast and Myanmar, India has an announcement that key Sittwe port in Myanmar's Rakhine state will be operationalized in the first quarter of next year, which is the period between January to March.

In a development that will increase connectivity & economic development in India's Northeast and Myanmar, India has an announcement that key Sittwe port in Myanmar's Rakhine state will be operationalized in the first quarter of next year, which is the period between January to March. India's Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla during virtual Foreign Office Consultations between the 2 countries on Thursday said,"Despite the challenges caused by the COVID pandemic, we are working towards operationalizing the Sittwe Port by the first quarter of next year." "With respect to the 69 bridges on the Trilateral Highway, I am happy to inform you that we will soon be moving forward with the tendering process," he said. Port at Sittwe and IWT Terminals in Sittwe and Paletwa have been constructed with Government of India’s grant assistance in May 2017 at a cost of about US$ 78 million. A Port Operator has taken over the port operations at Sittwe from 1 February 2020. Sittwe is part of India built mega Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project. The Project when completed, will improve connectivity with Myanmar, by creating transport corridor for shipment of cargo from the eastern ports of India to Myanmar as well as to the northeastern region of India via Myanmar. Myanmar delegation was led by Permanent Secretary, U Soe Han at the virtual meet that saw several other issues being discussed. During the meet, Foreign Secretary Harsh highlighting the "strong civilizational links", talked about the work India has "undertaken with the restoration of the famous Ananda Temple and are working on the conservation of some earthquake-damaged pagodas in Bagan". He expressed hope that Phase–1 will be completed "at the earliest which has been delayed due to the ongoing COVID pandemic." On security cooperation, Foreign Secretary remarked how both countries "have remained sensitive to each other’s security concerns" & "Myanmar’s handing over of 22 Indian insurgents has been deeply appreciated by the Government of India and sends a strong message of deterrence to inimical elements on both sides" Interesting to note that Myanmar will be sending its representative to India's Information Fusion Centre for the Indian Ocean Region based in Gurgaon. The Fusion centre has detailed information on the developments in the Indian ocean. On COVID vaccine, he said, "we stand committed to sharing our capabilities with our strategic partners, including Myanmar, in our collective best interest." He also mentioned the Rohingya issue between Myanmar & Bangladesh saying, "Our efforts towards ensuring an early, safe and sustainable repatriation of internally displaced persons to Myanmar will continue." India has entered into trilateral cooperation with Japan on the Rakhine State in Myanmar under which New Delhi will create soft infrastructure for 15 schools.

India to operationalise 'Chabahar of the East' Sittwe port next year

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, on Friday, said that his government is committed to ensuring the safety woman, adding that those who harm the dignity of `mothers and sisters` in Uttar Pradesh will be `destroyed` and given exemplary punishment.

"Those who even think of damaging the honour of our mothers and sisters will be destroyed completely. They will be given such punishment that it will serve as an example in future. Your UP government is committed to the safety and security of every mother and sister. This is our promise, our determination," Adityanath said in a tweet in Hindi.

The Chief Minister`s assurance came amid massive political uproar over the alleged gang-rape and death of the victim in the Hathras case. Congress leaders Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi were arrested and sent back to Delhi when they attempted to meet the victim on Thursday.Earlier in the day, Congress held a prayer meet for the victim at Maharishi Valmiki Temple in the national capital where party leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra said that gross injustice was done to the alleged gangrape victim and is being done to her family.

Bhim Army chief Chandrashekhar Azad had also said that he will stage a protest at India Gate at 5 pm demanding justice.Also, a delegation of Trinamool Congress (TMC) was roughed up by Uttar Pradesh Police at Hathras border.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nirbhaya-rape-case-lawyer-seema-kushwaha-to-help-fight-hathras-victim-331947">Nirbhaya rape case lawyer, Seema Kushwaha, to help fight Hathras victim</a>

The delegation, including party MP Derek O`Brien, was on the way to meet the family of the victim of the Hathras incident.The 19-year-old Hathras girl died at Delhi`s Safdarjung hospital on September 29, a fortnight after allegedly being gang-raped.&nbsp;

All the four accused in the incident have been arrested.The government has formed a three-member SIT to probe the case and said the matter will be heard in the fast track court.The post-mortem report reads that the victim suffered a fracture of "C6 cervical vertebra" and there was "extravasations of blood along the fracture line" and the underlying spinal cord was "contused with ascending oedema". Also, the postmortem report denies rape charges.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, on Friday, said that his government is committed to ensuring the safety woman, adding that those who harm the dignity of `mothers and sisters` in Uttar Pradesh will be `destroyed` and given exemplary punishment.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, on Friday, said that his government is committed to ensuring the safety woman, adding that those who harm the dignity of `mothers and sisters` in Uttar Pradesh will be `destroyed` and given exemplary punishment. "Those who even think of damaging the honour of our mothers and sisters will be destroyed completely. They will be given such punishment that it will serve as an example in future. Your UP government is committed to the safety and security of every mother and sister. This is our promise, our determination," Adityanath said in a tweet in Hindi. The Chief Minister`s assurance came amid massive political uproar over the alleged gang-rape and death of the victim in the Hathras case. Congress leaders Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi were arrested and sent back to Delhi when they attempted to meet the victim on Thursday.Earlier in the day, Congress held a prayer meet for the victim at Maharishi Valmiki Temple in the national capital where party leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra said that gross injustice was done to the alleged gangrape victim and is being done to her family. Bhim Army chief Chandrashekhar Azad had also said that he will stage a protest at India Gate at 5 pm demanding justice.Also, a delegation of Trinamool Congress (TMC) was roughed up by Uttar Pradesh Police at Hathras border. Also Read | Nirbhaya rape case lawyer, Seema Kushwaha, to help fight Hathras victim The delegation, including party MP Derek O`Brien, was on the way to meet the family of the victim of the Hathras incident.The 19-year-old Hathras girl died at Delhi`s Safdarjung hospital on September 29, a fortnight after allegedly being gang-raped. All the four accused in the incident have been arrested.The government has formed a three-member SIT to probe the case and said the matter will be heard in the fast track court.The post-mortem report reads that the victim suffered a fracture of "C6 cervical vertebra" and there was "extravasations of blood along the fracture line" and the underlying spinal cord was "contused with ascending oedema". Also, the postmortem report denies rape charges.

UP CM promises 'exemplary' action against those who harm dignity of 'mothers and sisters'

United Nation secretary-general&nbsp;Antonio Guterres has reiterated his call for a global ceasefire amidst the COVID pandemic in his message on the birth anniversary of India's father of the nation, Mahatma Gandhi.&nbsp;

Highlighting the "remarkable power of non-violence and peaceful protest",&nbsp;Guterres&nbsp;said, "its&nbsp;timely reminder to strive to uphold the values Gandhi lived by the promotion of dignity, equal protection for all and communities living together in peace".

Explaining,"This year we have a special duty, stop the fighting to focus on our common enemy COVID 19. Only one winner during a conflict during a pandemic--the virus itself...I have called for a global ceasefire, we need to make this a reality by the end of this year"

Guterres&nbsp;was speaking at a&nbsp;mega first-ever virtual event on the occasion&nbsp;organised by Indian mission to the United Nations.&nbsp;Mahatma Gandhi's birth anniversary on 2nd October is also the&nbsp;international day of non-violence.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-celebrates-151st-birth-anniversary-of-father-of-the-nation-mahatma-gandhi-331873" hreflang="en">India celebrates birth anniversary of 'father of the nation' Mahatma Gandhi</a>

The special commemoration included a video that showed reactions from the UN diplomats in the Security Council on Gandhi's assassination. It also showed footage of world leaders, including former US president Barack Obama, citing Gandhi's principles and ideologies during their addresses to the UN General Assembly over the years.

Indian envoy to United Nations&nbsp;TS Tirumurti speaking at the event said," Mahatma Gandhi was born in India but belongs to all humanity. No doubt, non-violence, is and&nbsp;will&nbsp;always be directly relevant to address the burning issues of the day"

Adding, "Gandhi Ji did not see political freedom, only freedom worth fighting for..but also liberating human beings from all forms of bondage and injustice...for him non-violence was a tool to fight injustice"

21 foreign envoys to the United Nations spoke at the event on the relevance of Gandhi to the world and to there country. These were envoys of&nbsp;Afghanistan, Australia, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Brazil, Egypt, Hungary, Indonesia, Ireland, Japan, Lebanon, Maldives, Mauritius, Mexico, Nigeria, Oman, Russia, South Africa, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Sri Lanka and the United States.

United Nation secretary-general Antonio Guterres has reiterated his call for a global ceasefire amidst the COVID pandemic in his message on the birth anniversary of India's father of the nation, Mahatma Gandhi.

United Nation secretary-general Antonio Guterres has reiterated his call for a global ceasefire amidst the COVID pandemic in his message on the birth anniversary of India's father of the nation, Mahatma Gandhi. Highlighting the "remarkable power of non-violence and peaceful protest", Guterres said, "its timely reminder to strive to uphold the values Gandhi lived by the promotion of dignity, equal protection for all and communities living together in peace". Explaining,"This year we have a special duty, stop the fighting to focus on our common enemy COVID 19. Only one winner during a conflict during a pandemic--the virus itself...I have called for a global ceasefire, we need to make this a reality by the end of this year" Guterres was speaking at a mega first-ever virtual event on the occasion organised by Indian mission to the United Nations. Mahatma Gandhi's birth anniversary on 2nd October is also the international day of non-violence. Also read: India celebrates birth anniversary of 'father of the nation' Mahatma Gandhi The special commemoration included a video that showed reactions from the UN diplomats in the Security Council on Gandhi's assassination. It also showed footage of world leaders, including former US president Barack Obama, citing Gandhi's principles and ideologies during their addresses to the UN General Assembly over the years. Indian envoy to United Nations TS Tirumurti speaking at the event said," Mahatma Gandhi was born in India but belongs to all humanity. No doubt, non-violence, is and will always be directly relevant to address the burning issues of the day" Adding, "Gandhi Ji did not see political freedom, only freedom worth fighting for..but also liberating human beings from all forms of bondage and injustice...for him non-violence was a tool to fight injustice" 21 foreign envoys to the United Nations spoke at the event on the relevance of Gandhi to the world and to there country. These were envoys of Afghanistan, Australia, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Brazil, Egypt, Hungary, Indonesia, Ireland, Japan, Lebanon, Maldives, Mauritius, Mexico, Nigeria, Oman, Russia, South Africa, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Sri Lanka and the United States.

On Gandhi's birth anniversary, UN chief reiterates call for global ceasefire

Mahatma Gandhi: 151st anniversary of Satyagraha's heirloom

The Indian and Bangladeshi navies will hold a mega military exercise in the Bay of Bengal on Saturday which will be followed by a two-day joint maritime patrolling in the region to further expand operational coordination between the two forces, officials said.

A wide spectrum of maritime drills and operations will be conducted as part of the annual 'Bongosagar' exercise whose first edition was held in October last year, they said.

"It is aimed at developing inter-operability and joint operational skills through conduct of a wide spectrum of maritime exercises and operations. Ships from both navies will participate in surface warfare drills, seamanship evolutions and helicopter operations," an Indian Navy spokesperson said.

He said the exercise will be followed by the third edition of Coordinated Patrol (CORPAT) in Northern Bay of Bengal on October 4 and 5 under which both navies will undertake joint patrolling in the region.

"Conduct of CORPAT has strengthened understanding between both the navies and instituted measures to stop conduct of unlawful activities," he said.

The Indian Navy will deploy anti-submarine warfare corvette Kiltan and guided-missile corvette Khukri in the 'Bongosagar' exercise.

The Bangladeshi navy will be represented by guided-missile frigate Abu Bakr and guided-missile corvette Prottoy, the officials said.

In addition to ships, maritime patrol aircraft as well as a number of helicopters from both navies would also be participating in the exercise, they said.

"India and Bangladesh have a close, long-standing relationship covering a wide spectrum of activities and interactions, which has strengthened over the years," the Indian Navy spokesperson said.

The Indian Navy has participated in a number of joint maritime exercises in the last few weeks including a three-day drill with Japanese navy from September 26-28.

Last month, Indian Navy also carried out a two-day mega exercise in the Indian Ocean Region with the Australian Navy that featured a range of complex naval manoeuvres, anti-aircraft drills and helicopter operations.

In July, the Indian Navy carried out a military exercise with a US Navy carrier strike group led by the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Nimitz off the coast of Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The USS Nimitz is the world's largest warship.

India has significantly expanded its deployment in the Indian Ocean Region with a plethora of warships and submarines following its border row with China in eastern Ladakh, ostensibly to send across a message to Beijing.

The Indian and Bangladeshi navies will hold a mega military exercise in the Bay of Bengal on Saturday which will be followed by a two-day joint maritime patrolling in the region to further expand operational coordination between the two forces, officials said.

The Indian and Bangladeshi navies will hold a mega military exercise in the Bay of Bengal on Saturday which will be followed by a two-day joint maritime patrolling in the region to further expand operational coordination between the two forces, officials said. A wide spectrum of maritime drills and operations will be conducted as part of the annual 'Bongosagar' exercise whose first edition was held in October last year, they said. "It is aimed at developing inter-operability and joint operational skills through conduct of a wide spectrum of maritime exercises and operations. Ships from both navies will participate in surface warfare drills, seamanship evolutions and helicopter operations," an Indian Navy spokesperson said. He said the exercise will be followed by the third edition of Coordinated Patrol (CORPAT) in Northern Bay of Bengal on October 4 and 5 under which both navies will undertake joint patrolling in the region. "Conduct of CORPAT has strengthened understanding between both the navies and instituted measures to stop conduct of unlawful activities," he said. The Indian Navy will deploy anti-submarine warfare corvette Kiltan and guided-missile corvette Khukri in the 'Bongosagar' exercise. The Bangladeshi navy will be represented by guided-missile frigate Abu Bakr and guided-missile corvette Prottoy, the officials said. In addition to ships, maritime patrol aircraft as well as a number of helicopters from both navies would also be participating in the exercise, they said. "India and Bangladesh have a close, long-standing relationship covering a wide spectrum of activities and interactions, which has strengthened over the years," the Indian Navy spokesperson said. The Indian Navy has participated in a number of joint maritime exercises in the last few weeks including a three-day drill with Japanese navy from September 26-28. Last month, Indian Navy also carried out a two-day mega exercise in the Indian Ocean Region with the Australian Navy that featured a range of complex naval manoeuvres, anti-aircraft drills and helicopter operations. In July, the Indian Navy carried out a military exercise with a US Navy carrier strike group led by the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Nimitz off the coast of Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The USS Nimitz is the world's largest warship. India has significantly expanded its deployment in the Indian Ocean Region with a plethora of warships and submarines following its border row with China in eastern Ladakh, ostensibly to send across a message to Beijing.

Navies of India, Bangladesh to hold 3-day mega military exercise from Saturday

Asserting that the world also takes a leap ahead when India prospers, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the clarion call for an 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' includes a vision of global welfare and sought support of the Indian diaspora to realise this dream.

He also underlined the need to amplify the rich history of Indian science and said many historical questions have been solved with the help of science over the last century.

"India's clarion call of an 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat (Sel-Reliant India) includes a vision of global welfare. To realise this dream, I invite you all and seek your support," Modi said at the inauguration of?the Vaishvik Bhartiya Vaigyanik (VAIBHAV) Summit, a global virtual summit of overseas and resident Indian researchers and academicians being organised from October 2-31, 2020.

"Recently India introduced pioneering space reforms. These reforms provide opportunities for both industry and the academia," Modi said while listing numerous steps taken by his government to boost science, research and innovation.

He further said the government wants top-class scientific research to help the farmers.

"Our agricultural research scientists have worked hard to ramp up our production of pulses. Today we import only a very small fraction of our pulses. Our food-grain production has hit a record high," he said.

Modi further said his government is encouraging indigenous vaccine production.

"Four new vaccines were introduced into our communication programme in 2014 including an indigenously developed Rotavirus vaccine," he said.

PM Modi said the VAIBHAV summit has brought together eminent people from India as well as from abroad, making it a confluence of great minds from across the world.

"You have also made some good suggestions for improving the research ecosystem in India. I hope this summit is going to be very productive," he told the participants.

Referring to the time periods like the stone age, the bronze age, the iron age, the space age and the digital age, Modi said each of those marked some key technological advancements.

"I would like to thank the scientists who offered their suggestions and ideas today. You have brilliantly covered many subjects. Most of you highlighted the importance of greater collaboration between the Indian academic and research ecosystem with their foreign counterparts," he said.

The aim of the summit is to bring Indian origin luminaries in academic institutes and R&amp;D organisations across the world and resident counterparts on a single platform to debate upon collaboration mechanisms to strengthen academic and S&amp;T (science and technology) base in India for global development.

The inauguration was followed by online deliberation sessions.

The initiative involves multiple levels of interactions among overseas experts and Indian counterparts over a month-long series of webinars and video conferences, among other activities. More than 3,000 overseas Indian origin academicians and scientists from 55 countries and more than 10,000 resident academicians and scientists are taking part in the summit.

About 200 academic institutes and S&amp;T departments, led by Principal Scientific Advisor, are organising the summit running through October.

Over 1,500 panelists from 40 countries, 200 leading Indian R&amp;D and academic institutions are virtually deliberating in 18 different areas and 80 topics in more than 200 deliberation sessions.

The concluding session is planned on October 31 on the occasion of Sardar Patel Jayanti.

Asserting that the world also takes a leap ahead when India prospers, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the clarion call for an 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' includes a vision of global welfare and sought support of the Indian diaspora to realise this dream.

Asserting that the world also takes a leap ahead when India prospers, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the clarion call for an 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' includes a vision of global welfare and sought support of the Indian diaspora to realise this dream. He also underlined the need to amplify the rich history of Indian science and said many historical questions have been solved with the help of science over the last century. "India's clarion call of an 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat (Sel-Reliant India) includes a vision of global welfare. To realise this dream, I invite you all and seek your support," Modi said at the inauguration of?the Vaishvik Bhartiya Vaigyanik (VAIBHAV) Summit, a global virtual summit of overseas and resident Indian researchers and academicians being organised from October 2-31, 2020. "Recently India introduced pioneering space reforms. These reforms provide opportunities for both industry and the academia," Modi said while listing numerous steps taken by his government to boost science, research and innovation. He further said the government wants top-class scientific research to help the farmers. "Our agricultural research scientists have worked hard to ramp up our production of pulses. Today we import only a very small fraction of our pulses. Our food-grain production has hit a record high," he said. Modi further said his government is encouraging indigenous vaccine production. "Four new vaccines were introduced into our communication programme in 2014 including an indigenously developed Rotavirus vaccine," he said. PM Modi said the VAIBHAV summit has brought together eminent people from India as well as from abroad, making it a confluence of great minds from across the world. "You have also made some good suggestions for improving the research ecosystem in India. I hope this summit is going to be very productive," he told the participants. Referring to the time periods like the stone age, the bronze age, the iron age, the space age and the digital age, Modi said each of those marked some key technological advancements. "I would like to thank the scientists who offered their suggestions and ideas today. You have brilliantly covered many subjects. Most of you highlighted the importance of greater collaboration between the Indian academic and research ecosystem with their foreign counterparts," he said. The aim of the summit is to bring Indian origin luminaries in academic institutes and R&D organisations across the world and resident counterparts on a single platform to debate upon collaboration mechanisms to strengthen academic and S&T (science and technology) base in India for global development. The inauguration was followed by online deliberation sessions. The initiative involves multiple levels of interactions among overseas experts and Indian counterparts over a month-long series of webinars and video conferences, among other activities. More than 3,000 overseas Indian origin academicians and scientists from 55 countries and more than 10,000 resident academicians and scientists are taking part in the summit. About 200 academic institutes and S&T departments, led by Principal Scientific Advisor, are organising the summit running through October. Over 1,500 panelists from 40 countries, 200 leading Indian R&D and academic institutions are virtually deliberating in 18 different areas and 80 topics in more than 200 deliberation sessions. The concluding session is planned on October 31 on the occasion of Sardar Patel Jayanti.

Self-Reliant India Mission includes vision for global welfare: PM Modi

India on Friday is celebrating the 151st birth anniversary of its 'father of the nation' Mahatma Gandhi.

On the occasion of Gandhi Jayanti -- as the day is referred to, Indian President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi early morning paid floral tributes to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat in New Delhi.

They also paid homage to former prime minister Lal Bahadur Shastri on his birth anniversary at Vijay Ghat.

There is much to learn from Mahatma Gandhi's life and thoughts, PM Modi said as he shared a short video of his remarks on the father of the nation.

"October 2nd is a holy and inspirational day for all of us. Bapu (Mahatma Gandhi) thoughts and ideals are more relevant today. Mahatma Gandhi-ji used to say his life is his message and he never tried to influence with his life but his life became an inspiration for others," he said in the short video which he shared on Twitter.

Mahatma Gandhi, PM Modi said, believed in "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam" (the world is one family) and showed path to the nation through satya (truth), ahimsa (non violence), Satyagraha.

May Bapu's ideals keep guiding us in creating a prosperous and compassionate India, he added.

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We bow to beloved Bapu on Gandhi Jayanti. 
 
There is much to learn from his life and noble thoughts. 
 
May Bapu’s ideals keep guiding us in creating a prosperous and compassionate India. <a href="https://t.co/wCe4DkU9aI">pic.twitter.com/wCe4DkU9aI</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1311843987532050437?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 2, 2020</a></blockquote>
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President Kovind was accompanied by Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal as they paid tributes at Shastri's memorial at Vijay Ghat.

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Gandhiji was more concerned about his duties than his rights, and took up cudgels on behalf of others — Dalits, peasants, labourers, women and others.
— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) <a href="https://twitter.com/rashtrapatibhvn/status/1311854437707571200?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 2, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The year-long celebrations of his 150th birth anniversary that culminate today have been an apt occasion to rejuvenate his memories and reorient the moral and ethical foundations of public life.
— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) <a href="https://twitter.com/rashtrapatibhvn/status/1311854687864254464?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 2, 2020</a></blockquote>
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An interfaith prayer was held and Mahatma Gandhi's favourite bhajans "Vaishanv Jan To" and "Raghupati Raghava Raja Ram" were rendered as dignitaries paid homage at his memorial at Rajghat.

Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, better known as Mahatma for his sacrifices in achieving freedom for India from the clutches of British rule in 1947, was assassinated on January 30, 1948.

India on Friday is celebrating the 151st birth anniversary of its 'father of the nation' Mahatma Gandhi. On the occasion of Gandhi Jayanti -- as the day is referred to, Indian President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi early morning paid floral tributes to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat in New Delhi.

India on Friday is celebrating the 151st birth anniversary of its 'father of the nation' Mahatma Gandhi. On the occasion of Gandhi Jayanti -- as the day is referred to, Indian President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi early morning paid floral tributes to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat in New Delhi. They also paid homage to former prime minister Lal Bahadur Shastri on his birth anniversary at Vijay Ghat. There is much to learn from Mahatma Gandhi's life and thoughts, PM Modi said as he shared a short video of his remarks on the father of the nation. "October 2nd is a holy and inspirational day for all of us. Bapu (Mahatma Gandhi) thoughts and ideals are more relevant today. Mahatma Gandhi-ji used to say his life is his message and he never tried to influence with his life but his life became an inspiration for others," he said in the short video which he shared on Twitter. Mahatma Gandhi, PM Modi said, believed in "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam" (the world is one family) and showed path to the nation through satya (truth), ahimsa (non violence), Satyagraha. May Bapu's ideals keep guiding us in creating a prosperous and compassionate India, he added. We bow to beloved Bapu on Gandhi Jayanti. There is much to learn from his life and noble thoughts. May Bapu’s ideals keep guiding us in creating a prosperous and compassionate India. pic.twitter.com/wCe4DkU9aI — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 2, 2020 × President Kovind was accompanied by Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal as they paid tributes at Shastri's memorial at Vijay Ghat. Gandhiji was more concerned about his duties than his rights, and took up cudgels on behalf of others — Dalits, peasants, labourers, women and others. — President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) October 2, 2020 × The year-long celebrations of his 150th birth anniversary that culminate today have been an apt occasion to rejuvenate his memories and reorient the moral and ethical foundations of public life. — President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) October 2, 2020 × An interfaith prayer was held and Mahatma Gandhi's favourite bhajans "Vaishanv Jan To" and "Raghupati Raghava Raja Ram" were rendered as dignitaries paid homage at his memorial at Rajghat. Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, better known as Mahatma for his sacrifices in achieving freedom for India from the clutches of British rule in 1947, was assassinated on January 30, 1948.

India celebrates 151st birth anniversary of 'father of the nation' Mahatma Gandhi

Arunachal Pradesh is Indian territory and the United States strongly opposes unilateral attempts to advance territorial claims in Arunachal Pradesh by incursions, be it military or civilian, across the Line of Actual Control (LAC), US State Department official said.

"We have our position on some parts of the border for sure is explicitly clear. For nearly six decades, the US has recognised that Arunachal Pradesh is Indian territory. We strongly oppose any unilateral attempts to advance territorial claims by incursions, by military or civilian incursions across the established LAC," the state department official said, during a Foreign Press Centre briefing on Thursday, amid the India-China border face-off.

Giving an update on the India-US bilateral relations, the senior official said, "At a time when India is facing substantial security challenges, the growth in our defense partnership is exceptionally important. This partnership includes defense sales, particularly our offers of advanced US weapon systems, as a demonstration of our commitment to India's security and sovereignty."

"Interoperability between our military services has reached unprecedented levels, as demonstrated by the Tiger Triumph exercise last year and the Indian Navy's recent passage exercise with the USS Nimitz Carrier Strike Group in the Indian Ocean."

The official also said that the US is looking forward to the 2+2 ministerial later this year.

Over the upcoming Quad meet in Tokyo next month, the official said, "One final highlight on the multilateral front is our increasingly strong Quad partnership with Australia, India, and Japan. We look forward to the upcoming meeting of Quad foreign ministers on October 6th and we welcome additional opportunities for engagement such as having Australia join the Malabar naval exercise."

The official also spoke about China's growing military aggression. He said that one just has to "open the internet browser to see various areas where China has engaged in aggressive, hostile, or bullying behaviour against its neighbours or against its own citizens."

Arunachal Pradesh is Indian territory and the United States strongly opposes unilateral attempts to advance territorial claims in Arunachal Pradesh by incursions, be it military or civilian, across the Line of Actual Control (LAC), US State Department official said.

Arunachal Pradesh is Indian territory and the United States strongly opposes unilateral attempts to advance territorial claims in Arunachal Pradesh by incursions, be it military or civilian, across the Line of Actual Control (LAC), US State Department official said. "We have our position on some parts of the border for sure is explicitly clear. For nearly six decades, the US has recognised that Arunachal Pradesh is Indian territory. We strongly oppose any unilateral attempts to advance territorial claims by incursions, by military or civilian incursions across the established LAC," the state department official said, during a Foreign Press Centre briefing on Thursday, amid the India-China border face-off. Giving an update on the India-US bilateral relations, the senior official said, "At a time when India is facing substantial security challenges, the growth in our defense partnership is exceptionally important. This partnership includes defense sales, particularly our offers of advanced US weapon systems, as a demonstration of our commitment to India's security and sovereignty." "Interoperability between our military services has reached unprecedented levels, as demonstrated by the Tiger Triumph exercise last year and the Indian Navy's recent passage exercise with the USS Nimitz Carrier Strike Group in the Indian Ocean." The official also said that the US is looking forward to the 2+2 ministerial later this year. Over the upcoming Quad meet in Tokyo next month, the official said, "One final highlight on the multilateral front is our increasingly strong Quad partnership with Australia, India, and Japan. We look forward to the upcoming meeting of Quad foreign ministers on October 6th and we welcome additional opportunities for engagement such as having Australia join the Malabar naval exercise." The official also spoke about China's growing military aggression. He said that one just has to "open the internet browser to see various areas where China has engaged in aggressive, hostile, or bullying behaviour against its neighbours or against its own citizens."

US opposes China's attempts to advance territorial claims in Arunachal: State dept

The Supreme Court has accepted the suggestions of the Directorate General of Civil Aviation on refunding passengers for flights booked during the lockdown for travel during the period.

India's Supreme Court: Cancelled tickets to be fully refunded

India is signaling a recovery in the auto market. Indian sales of automobiles including four-wheelers and two-wheelers may increase due to the coming festive months. Watch report.

Indian carmakers drive into the fast lane

Today is the 151st birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi who is also known as the ‘Father of the Nation’. As millions across the world, political leaders and heads of states pay tribute to the Mahatma Gandhi, the OTT platforms have laid out a spread of binge-worthy options based on the Father of the Nation.

Remembering the 'Father of the Nation' Mahatma Gandhi

In a big development, Armenia has said that it "can't&nbsp;exclude the possibility" of Pakistani fighters on the ground fight along with "mercenaries operating in Azerbaijan".

Armenia's Deputy Foreign Minister Avet Adonts speaking to our Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal from Yerevan said," It won't be a surprise for us", recalling how in the 1990s Pakistani nationals were present when war broke in Nagorno Karabakh. He also slammed turkey for sending Jihadis to Azerbaijan explaining "this imposed or instigated war" has been "well planned jointly with Turkey". Clashes have broken between Armenia and Azerbaijan in past few days over Nagorno Karabakh region leaving several dead and fears of spillover in the region.

WION: What is the current situation at the Armenia-Azerbaijan? 
Avet Adonts: The dictatorship of Azerbaijan backed by Turkey instigated large scale war. Large scale war is taking place on the ground. On September 27, early morning between 6 to 7 am, they — Azerbaijan with its military instruments, the airplanes, heavy artillery, tanks all possible supply to start a massive attack towards nagorno karabakh along the entire contact line between nagorno karabakh and Azerbaijan, targeting the civilian population, capital of the area and many casualties are there. Defence forces of Nagorno Karabakh has reacted in a defensive manner, but in a targetted way but in a defensive manner to the aggression by Azeri military forces jointly with the Turkish. The military operation, defensive operations of nagorno karabakh is providing security of its population, it is about 150,000 people of Armenian origin which used to live there. Its a large scale war between nagorno karabakh and Azerbaijan backed by Turkey. They are expanding the geography of this war, they are approaching Armenian as well, taking into account — on Armenian territory, the Armenia aeroplane has been down days ago. We have witnessed next to the capital to Armenia the drones of Azerbaijan. They were downed, but it is another attempt to provoke another escalation.&nbsp;

WION: What kind of global support you are getting? 
Avet Adonts: The international community is well aware, this imposed or instigated war has been well planned, well planned jointly with Turkey. So, its very obvious, obvious documentary proof. No alternative opinion. The situation needs a de escalation, its very obvious. All the international community, with its leaders, are calling to de-escalate the situation. To stop the military operation, but the destination of all these urgent calls are Azerbaijan and Turkey. &nbsp;Why I am saying Turkey, because, Turkey is very much involved, within the military operation which has been initiated by Azerbaijan. It is a new component of part of the political map, they are practically there--helping not only politically, supporting the country politically as well in a very practical way, the military presence, weapon system, starting with the planes, ending with the drones and military personnel.&nbsp;

WION: Turkey's role in the situation? Is it sending Jihadis? 
Avet Adonts: This is not a question, many people and media were questioning days ago. It is very obvious. Not only Jihadis but mercenaries from Northern Part of Syria. They have arrived in Azerbaijan, via Turkey and Turkey was very instrumental in the recruitment process. The number is very different, starting with 1000, ending with 5000. It is very very obvious, proven that they are there, there to fight against Nagorno Karabakh people.

WION: What do you expect from India? 
Avet Adonts: First, we value very much quality and dynamics of our cooperation with India. India is very much crucial partner for Armenia, not only in our bilateral agenda but also within the region and international agenda. This is very much in line with the treaty of friendship and cooperation we are implementing jointly with India. As I mentioned in beginning, the de-escalation is very important as well as the unacceptability of this is hugely important. The joint statement produced by OSCE Minsk group — Russia, US, France, Putin, Trump, macron, they have called for stopping the military operation and the 3rd party is very much involved, the name of 3rd party is Turkey.&nbsp;

WION: Reports of Pakistani support in terms of sending men on the ground? True? 
Avet Adonts: You know, the single country that has supported Azerbaijan in it, within this development. The single country is Turkey with its military and political support, and Pakistan. Many medias are reporting, Pakistani fighters have left Pakistan, and again via Turkey they have reached Azerbaijan to join the mercenaries operating in Azerbaijan. It won't be a surprise for us. Practically it will be proven very soon.&nbsp;

WION:&nbsp;Your think, considerable possibility of Pakistani nationals on the ground? 
Avet Adonts: We can't exclude this possibility, taking into account, they used to act in the same way at the beginning of 90s during the large scale war in Nagorno karabakh. With ceasefire agreement in 1994, these guys were there, of Pakistani origin. It would not be a surprise for us if they will be present this time as well. Since Thursday different media have been aggressive, reporting they are already there.&nbsp;

In a big development, Armenia has said that it "can't exclude the possibility" of Pakistani fighters on the ground fight along with "mercenaries operating in Azerbaijan".

In a big development, Armenia has said that it "can't exclude the possibility" of Pakistani fighters on the ground fight along with "mercenaries operating in Azerbaijan". Armenia's Deputy Foreign Minister Avet Adonts speaking to our Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal from Yerevan said," It won't be a surprise for us", recalling how in the 1990s Pakistani nationals were present when war broke in Nagorno Karabakh. He also slammed turkey for sending Jihadis to Azerbaijan explaining "this imposed or instigated war" has been "well planned jointly with Turkey". Clashes have broken between Armenia and Azerbaijan in past few days over Nagorno Karabakh region leaving several dead and fears of spillover in the region. WION: What is the current situation at the Armenia-Azerbaijan? Avet Adonts: The dictatorship of Azerbaijan backed by Turkey instigated large scale war. Large scale war is taking place on the ground. On September 27, early morning between 6 to 7 am, they — Azerbaijan with its military instruments, the airplanes, heavy artillery, tanks all possible supply to start a massive attack towards nagorno karabakh along the entire contact line between nagorno karabakh and Azerbaijan, targeting the civilian population, capital of the area and many casualties are there. Defence forces of Nagorno Karabakh has reacted in a defensive manner, but in a targetted way but in a defensive manner to the aggression by Azeri military forces jointly with the Turkish. The military operation, defensive operations of nagorno karabakh is providing security of its population, it is about 150,000 people of Armenian origin which used to live there. Its a large scale war between nagorno karabakh and Azerbaijan backed by Turkey. They are expanding the geography of this war, they are approaching Armenian as well, taking into account — on Armenian territory, the Armenia aeroplane has been down days ago. We have witnessed next to the capital to Armenia the drones of Azerbaijan. They were downed, but it is another attempt to provoke another escalation. WION: What kind of global support you are getting? Avet Adonts: The international community is well aware, this imposed or instigated war has been well planned, well planned jointly with Turkey. So, its very obvious, obvious documentary proof. No alternative opinion. The situation needs a de escalation, its very obvious. All the international community, with its leaders, are calling to de-escalate the situation. To stop the military operation, but the destination of all these urgent calls are Azerbaijan and Turkey. Why I am saying Turkey, because, Turkey is very much involved, within the military operation which has been initiated by Azerbaijan. It is a new component of part of the political map, they are practically there--helping not only politically, supporting the country politically as well in a very practical way, the military presence, weapon system, starting with the planes, ending with the drones and military personnel. WION: Turkey's role in the situation? Is it sending Jihadis? Avet Adonts: This is not a question, many people and media were questioning days ago. It is very obvious. Not only Jihadis but mercenaries from Northern Part of Syria. They have arrived in Azerbaijan, via Turkey and Turkey was very instrumental in the recruitment process. The number is very different, starting with 1000, ending with 5000. It is very very obvious, proven that they are there, there to fight against Nagorno Karabakh people. WION: What do you expect from India? Avet Adonts: First, we value very much quality and dynamics of our cooperation with India. India is very much crucial partner for Armenia, not only in our bilateral agenda but also within the region and international agenda. This is very much in line with the treaty of friendship and cooperation we are implementing jointly with India. As I mentioned in beginning, the de-escalation is very important as well as the unacceptability of this is hugely important. The joint statement produced by OSCE Minsk group — Russia, US, France, Putin, Trump, macron, they have called for stopping the military operation and the 3rd party is very much involved, the name of 3rd party is Turkey. WION: Reports of Pakistani support in terms of sending men on the ground? True? Avet Adonts: You know, the single country that has supported Azerbaijan in it, within this development. The single country is Turkey with its military and political support, and Pakistan. Many medias are reporting, Pakistani fighters have left Pakistan, and again via Turkey they have reached Azerbaijan to join the mercenaries operating in Azerbaijan. It won't be a surprise for us. Practically it will be proven very soon. WION: Your think, considerable possibility of Pakistani nationals on the ground? Avet Adonts: We can't exclude this possibility, taking into account, they used to act in the same way at the beginning of 90s during the large scale war in Nagorno karabakh. With ceasefire agreement in 1994, these guys were there, of Pakistani origin. It would not be a surprise for us if they will be present this time as well. Since Thursday different media have been aggressive, reporting they are already there.

Exclusive: 'Can't exclude the possibility', says Armenia on Pakistani fighters on ground amid clashes

An Indian-origin convenience store owner in the UK has been handed a six-year ban from holding any company directorship over inaccurate tax returns submitted to the authorities.

Pratik Kumar Patel accepted a disqualification undertaking, a process which does not involve court proceedings, after the UK Insolvency Service took action against him for showing a "total disregard" for his responsibility as a company director.

"Much of the public service is funded by the correct amount of taxes being paid and their deceit has ultimately had impact on the public who rely on companies paying their correct taxes," Lawrence Zussman, Deputy Head of Insolvent Investigations for the Insolvency Service, said on Thursday.

He said the considerable ban of six years will severely restrict Patel's ability to act in the corporate arena, and should serve as a warning to other directors "who think they can do as they please?.

R.K. Patel &amp; Sons (UK) Limited was incorporated in May 2015 and took over the business of an existing convenience store located on South Square at Knowle in Hampshire, south-east England.

Between October 2015 and January 2019, the sole director of the company was Patel, who the Insolvency Service found caused the company to supress sales income and submit inaccurate returns to the tax authorities.

When R.K. Patel &amp; Sons (UK) Limited entered into a "creditors voluntary liquidation" in August 2019, it was determined the company had tax liabilities totalling 345,000 pounds.

His six-year disqualification, which is effective from October 7, means he is banned from acting as director or directly or indirectly becoming involved, without the permission of the court, in the promotion, formation or management of a company.&nbsp;

An Indian-origin convenience store owner in the UK has been handed a six-year ban from holding any company directorship over inaccurate tax returns submitted to the authorities.

An Indian-origin convenience store owner in the UK has been handed a six-year ban from holding any company directorship over inaccurate tax returns submitted to the authorities. Pratik Kumar Patel accepted a disqualification undertaking, a process which does not involve court proceedings, after the UK Insolvency Service took action against him for showing a "total disregard" for his responsibility as a company director. "Much of the public service is funded by the correct amount of taxes being paid and their deceit has ultimately had impact on the public who rely on companies paying their correct taxes," Lawrence Zussman, Deputy Head of Insolvent Investigations for the Insolvency Service, said on Thursday. He said the considerable ban of six years will severely restrict Patel's ability to act in the corporate arena, and should serve as a warning to other directors "who think they can do as they please?. R.K. Patel & Sons (UK) Limited was incorporated in May 2015 and took over the business of an existing convenience store located on South Square at Knowle in Hampshire, south-east England. Between October 2015 and January 2019, the sole director of the company was Patel, who the Insolvency Service found caused the company to supress sales income and submit inaccurate returns to the tax authorities. When R.K. Patel & Sons (UK) Limited entered into a "creditors voluntary liquidation" in August 2019, it was determined the company had tax liabilities totalling 345,000 pounds. His six-year disqualification, which is effective from October 7, means he is banned from acting as director or directly or indirectly becoming involved, without the permission of the court, in the promotion, formation or management of a company.

Indian-origin shop owner banned in UK over tax offences

The 2012 Delhi rape case of&nbsp;Nirbhaya was fought by lawyer&nbsp;Seema Kushwaha. Now, Seema has vowed to provide her aid to the Hathras rape victim.

Kushwaha also tried meeting the family on Tuesday but was not allowed to meet the family by the local authorities. However, she has assured that she will be giving her best to meet and help the family.

She also claimed that she has been talking to the victim's brother.

"I will not leave Hathras without meeting the family. They have requested me to stand as their legal counsel but the administration is not allowing me to meet them," she told reporters.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/up-after-hathras-tragedy-college-student-raped-and-murdered-in-balrampur-district-331623">Also read|&nbsp;UP: After Hathras tragedy, college student raped and murdered in Balrampur district</a>

Kushwaha was the family lawyer of the 23-year-old paramedical student who was gang-raped on a moving bus on the night of December 16, 2012, by six people, including a juvenile in Delhi. The victim lost her battle with life in a hospital in Singapore.

The announcement by Kushwaha has got a lot of positive response due to her recent win when all four convcts of the 2012&nbsp;Nirbhaya gang-rape and murder casewere hanged to death in March, this year.

Meanswhile, after the victim succumbed to her injuries this week, the&nbsp;government has formed a three-member SIT to probe the case and said the matter will be heard in the fast track court. All four accused in the case have been arrested.

However, as of now,&nbsp;Additional Director General (law and order) Prashant Kumar has claimed that according to the initial reports by the doctors, her death was caused by the trauma of her neck injury, and there is no confirmation of rape yet.

(With inputs from agencies)

The 2012 Delhi rape case of Nirbhaya was fought by lawyer Seema Kushwaha. Now, Seema has vowed to provide her aid to the Hathras rape victim. Kushwaha also tried meeting the family on Tuesday but was not allowed to meet the family by the local authorities.

The 2012 Delhi rape case of Nirbhaya was fought by lawyer Seema Kushwaha. Now, Seema has vowed to provide her aid to the Hathras rape victim. Kushwaha also tried meeting the family on Tuesday but was not allowed to meet the family by the local authorities. However, she has assured that she will be giving her best to meet and help the family. She also claimed that she has been talking to the victim's brother. "I will not leave Hathras without meeting the family. They have requested me to stand as their legal counsel but the administration is not allowing me to meet them," she told reporters. Also read| UP: After Hathras tragedy, college student raped and murdered in Balrampur district Kushwaha was the family lawyer of the 23-year-old paramedical student who was gang-raped on a moving bus on the night of December 16, 2012, by six people, including a juvenile in Delhi. The victim lost her battle with life in a hospital in Singapore. The announcement by Kushwaha has got a lot of positive response due to her recent win when all four convcts of the 2012 Nirbhaya gang-rape and murder casewere hanged to death in March, this year. Meanswhile, after the victim succumbed to her injuries this week, the government has formed a three-member SIT to probe the case and said the matter will be heard in the fast track court. All four accused in the case have been arrested. However, as of now, Additional Director General (law and order) Prashant Kumar has claimed that according to the initial reports by the doctors, her death was caused by the trauma of her neck injury, and there is no confirmation of rape yet. (With inputs from agencies)

Nirbhaya rape case lawyer, Seema Kushwaha, to help fight Hathras victim

India's COVID-19 caseload inched closer to 6,400,000 million-mark with 81,484 infections reported in a day, while the number of people who recuperated from the disease crossed 5.3 million&nbsp;pushing the recovery rate to 83.70 per cent, the Union health ministry said on Friday.

The total number of coronavirus cases in the country mounted to 6,394,068, while the death toll climbed to 99,773 with the infection claiming 1,095 lives in a span of 24 hours, according to the ministry data updated at 8 am on Friday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-pakistan-shuts-restaurants-with-no-distancing-331922">Also read|&nbsp;COVID-19: Pakistan shuts restaurants with no distancing</a>

The total recoveries have surged to 5,352,078. There are 942,217 active cases of coronavirus infection in the country which comprises 14.74 per cent of the total caseload, the data stated.&nbsp;The COVID-19 case fatality rate was recorded at 1.56 per cent, it said.

India's COVID-19 tally had crossed the 2 million mark on August 7, 3 million on August 23 and 4 million on September 5. It went past the 5 million on September 16 and crossed 6 million on September 28.

According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), a cumulative total of 76,717,728 samples have been tested for COVID-19 up to October 1, with 1,097,947 samples being tested on Thursday.

India's COVID-19 caseload inched closer to 6,400,000 million-mark with 81,484 infections reported in a day, while the number of people who recuperated from the disease crossed 5.

India's COVID-19 caseload inched closer to 6,400,000 million-mark with 81,484 infections reported in a day, while the number of people who recuperated from the disease crossed 5.3 million pushing the recovery rate to 83.70 per cent, the Union health ministry said on Friday. The total number of coronavirus cases in the country mounted to 6,394,068, while the death toll climbed to 99,773 with the infection claiming 1,095 lives in a span of 24 hours, according to the ministry data updated at 8 am on Friday. Also read| COVID-19: Pakistan shuts restaurants with no distancing The total recoveries have surged to 5,352,078. There are 942,217 active cases of coronavirus infection in the country which comprises 14.74 per cent of the total caseload, the data stated. The COVID-19 case fatality rate was recorded at 1.56 per cent, it said. India's COVID-19 tally had crossed the 2 million mark on August 7, 3 million on August 23 and 4 million on September 5. It went past the 5 million on September 16 and crossed 6 million on September 28. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), a cumulative total of 76,717,728 samples have been tested for COVID-19 up to October 1, with 1,097,947 samples being tested on Thursday.

India's COVID-19 tally inches closer to 6 million-mark; recoveries reach 5.3 mn

The recovery rate of Indian coronavirus patients stands at a whopping high of 83.53 per cent, the fatality rate has come down to 1.56 per cent, the data from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said.

According to the data from the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), India conducted 14,23,052 sample tests in a single day on Wednesday, taking the total number of samples tested so far to 7,56,19,781.

The number of recovered COVID-19 cases in India had crossed 52 lakh, which was the highest number of recoveries anywhere in the world.&nbsp; 
 
52,73,201 people have recuperated so far.

The total coronavirus cases mounted to 63,12,584, while the death toll climbed to 98,678 with the virus claiming 1,181 lives in a span of 24 hours, the data updated at 8 am showed.

The ministry, during a media briefing, further said that the number of Covid-19 tests per million population has crossed 50,000 in India, adding that a total of 2.97 crore tests were conducted in the month of September.

(With inputs from agencies)

The recovery rate of Indian coronavirus patients stands at a whopping high of 83.53 per cent, the fatality rate has come down to 1.56 per cent, the data from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said.

The recovery rate of Indian coronavirus patients stands at a whopping high of 83.53 per cent, the fatality rate has come down to 1.56 per cent, the data from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said. According to the data from the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), India conducted 14,23,052 sample tests in a single day on Wednesday, taking the total number of samples tested so far to 7,56,19,781. The number of recovered COVID-19 cases in India had crossed 52 lakh, which was the highest number of recoveries anywhere in the world. 52,73,201 people have recuperated so far. The total coronavirus cases mounted to 63,12,584, while the death toll climbed to 98,678 with the virus claiming 1,181 lives in a span of 24 hours, the data updated at 8 am showed. The ministry, during a media briefing, further said that the number of Covid-19 tests per million population has crossed 50,000 in India, adding that a total of 2.97 crore tests were conducted in the month of September. (With inputs from agencies)

India’s recovery rate improves as daily cases keep rising rapidly

The defence ministry on Thursday sealed a deal with a Nagpur-based company for supply of 10,00,000 hand grenades to the Indian Army at an approximate cost of Rs 409 crore.

The ministry said the 'multi-mode' hand grenades will replace the "World War II vintage" grenades being used by the Indian Army.

"The Acquisition Wing of the Ministry of Defence (MoD) today signed a contract with M/s Economic Explosive Ltd (EEL), Nagpur, for supply of 10,00,000 multi-mode hand grenades to the Indian Army at an approximate cost of Rs 409 crore," the ministry said in a statement.

"These grenades will be replacing the hand grenade design of World War-II vintage, in use with the Indian Army," it said.

The grenades to be supplied by Economic Explosive Ltd have been designed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), officials said.

"The grenades have a distinctive design, in that, they can be used in both offensive and defensive modes. This is a flagship project showcasing public-private partnership under the aegis of government of India enabling 'Atmanirbharta' (self reliance) in cutting edge ammunition technologies," the ministry said.

The defence ministry on Thursday sealed a deal with a Nagpur-based company for supply of 10,00,000 hand grenades to the Indian Army at an approximate cost of Rs 409 crore.

The defence ministry on Thursday sealed a deal with a Nagpur-based company for supply of 10,00,000 hand grenades to the Indian Army at an approximate cost of Rs 409 crore. The ministry said the 'multi-mode' hand grenades will replace the "World War II vintage" grenades being used by the Indian Army. "The Acquisition Wing of the Ministry of Defence (MoD) today signed a contract with M/s Economic Explosive Ltd (EEL), Nagpur, for supply of 10,00,000 multi-mode hand grenades to the Indian Army at an approximate cost of Rs 409 crore," the ministry said in a statement. "These grenades will be replacing the hand grenade design of World War-II vintage, in use with the Indian Army," it said. The grenades to be supplied by Economic Explosive Ltd have been designed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), officials said. "The grenades have a distinctive design, in that, they can be used in both offensive and defensive modes. This is a flagship project showcasing public-private partnership under the aegis of government of India enabling 'Atmanirbharta' (self reliance) in cutting edge ammunition technologies," the ministry said.

Defence ministry seals Rs 409-crore contract to procure hand grenades for Indian Army

India's COVID-19 tally crossed the 63 lakh-mark on Thursday with a spike of 86,821 new cases and 1,181 deaths reported in the last 24-hours as per the Union Health Ministry.

India's coronavirus tally now stands at 63, 12,585 including 9, 40,705 active cases, 52, 73,202 recoveries and 98,678 deaths deaths as per Ministry of Health and Family Welfare data.

Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) issued new guidelines for resuming activities in areas outside the Containment Zones on Wednesday.

Meanwhile, Director-General of World Health Organisation (WHO) Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus on Wednesday said that the actual number of deaths due to COVID-19 is "certainly higher" than 1 million.

(With inputs from agencies)

India's COVID-19 tally crossed the 63 lakh-mark on Thursday with a spike of 86,821 new cases and 1,181 deaths reported in the last 24-hours as per the Union Health Ministry.

India's COVID-19 tally crossed the 63 lakh-mark on Thursday with a spike of 86,821 new cases and 1,181 deaths reported in the last 24-hours as per the Union Health Ministry. India's coronavirus tally now stands at 63, 12,585 including 9, 40,705 active cases, 52, 73,202 recoveries and 98,678 deaths deaths as per Ministry of Health and Family Welfare data. Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) issued new guidelines for resuming activities in areas outside the Containment Zones on Wednesday. Meanwhile, Director-General of World Health Organisation (WHO) Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus on Wednesday said that the actual number of deaths due to COVID-19 is "certainly higher" than 1 million. (With inputs from agencies)

India’s tally crosses 63 lakh-mark with 86,821 fresh cases in last 24-hours

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