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Amid the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/india-china-standoff">India-China standoff </a>along the LAC, the ministry of external affairs(MEA) said today that "India never accepted the so-called unilaterally defined 1959 Line of Actual Contro(LAC). The position has been consistent and well known including to the Chinese."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-builds-himalayan-bridges-and-highways-amid-standoff-with-china-331126">Also Read:&nbsp;India builds Himalayan bridges and highways amid standoff with China</a>

The MEA said India calls on the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/india-china-standoff-how-indias-t-90-bhishma-battle-tank-is-outflanking-chinas-pla-at-lac-328483">Chinese</a> side to "sincerely and faithfully" abide by all "agreements and understandings in their entirety and refrain from advancing an untenable unilateral interpretation of the LAC."

India and Chinese core commanders have been involved&nbsp;in long drawn out talks along the LAC ever since the Galwan Valley clash in June. On August 29-30, the Indian and Chinese troops were involved in another skirmish as the Indian side sought to push back the Chinese incursion amid the standoff at the border.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/how-indian-air-force-intends-to-counter-chinas-forward-airbase-close-to-lac-326902">In Pics:&nbsp;</a><a href="http://13.235.153.162/photos/how-indian-air-force-intends-to-counter-chinas-forward-airbase-close-to-lac-326902" hreflang="en">How Indian Air Force intends to counter China's forward airbase close to LAC</a>

"Under their various bilateral agreements including the 1993 Agreement on Maintenance of Peace and Tranquility on Confidence Building Measures(CBMs) in the military field, 2005 Agreement on Political Parameters and Guiding Principles for settlement of the India-China boundary question, both India and China have committed to clarification and confirmation of the LAC to reach a common understanding of the alignment of the LAC."

MEA further added that the "two sides had engaged in an exercise to clarify and confirm the LAC up to 2003 but this process could not proceed further as the Chinese side did not show a willingness to pursue it."

"Therefore the insistence now on of the Chinese side that they is only one LAC is contrary to the solemn commitments made by China in these agreements," the MEA asserted. 
&nbsp;

Amid the India-China standoff along the LAC, the ministry of external affairs(MEA) said today that "India never accepted the so-called unilaterally defined 1959 Line of Actual Contro(LAC).

Amid the India-China standoff along the LAC, the ministry of external affairs(MEA) said today that "India never accepted the so-called unilaterally defined 1959 Line of Actual Contro(LAC). The position has been consistent and well known including to the Chinese." Also Read: India builds Himalayan bridges and highways amid standoff with China The MEA said India calls on the Chinese side to "sincerely and faithfully" abide by all "agreements and understandings in their entirety and refrain from advancing an untenable unilateral interpretation of the LAC." India and Chinese core commanders have been involved in long drawn out talks along the LAC ever since the Galwan Valley clash in June. On August 29-30, the Indian and Chinese troops were involved in another skirmish as the Indian side sought to push back the Chinese incursion amid the standoff at the border. In Pics: How Indian Air Force intends to counter China's forward airbase close to LAC "Under their various bilateral agreements including the 1993 Agreement on Maintenance of Peace and Tranquility on Confidence Building Measures(CBMs) in the military field, 2005 Agreement on Political Parameters and Guiding Principles for settlement of the India-China boundary question, both India and China have committed to clarification and confirmation of the LAC to reach a common understanding of the alignment of the LAC." MEA further added that the "two sides had engaged in an exercise to clarify and confirm the LAC up to 2003 but this process could not proceed further as the Chinese side did not show a willingness to pursue it." "Therefore the insistence now on of the Chinese side that they is only one LAC is contrary to the solemn commitments made by China in these agreements," the MEA asserted.

India-China standoff: India never accepted the so-called unilaterally defined 1959 LAC, says MEA

The ICMR's second sero-survey shows that Indian population is still far from achieving herd immunity against coronavirus infection, Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan said on Sunday while underlining the need for following COVID appropriate behaviour.

He also stressed that masks be worn even in places of worship.

During an interaction with his social media followers, the minister said the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) is actively researching on reports of COVID-19 reinfection and although the number of such cases is negligible at this moment, the government is fully seized of the importance of the matter, the health ministry said in a statement.

He cautioned that the sero-survey report should not create a sense of complacency among the people.

The first sero-survey of May 2020 had revealed that the nationwide prevalence of novel coronavirus infection was only 0.73 per cent.

"Even the soon to be released second sero-survey indications are that we are far from having achieved any kind of herd immunity which necessitates that all of us should continue following COVID appropriate behaviour," Vardhan said in response to the queries posed by his social media followers on 'Sunday Samvad' platform.

The health minister also dispelled fears regarding the phased opening of schools, and advised on proper protocol to be followed while visiting salons and hair spas, the ministry said.

He asked everyone to always raise awareness regarding COVID appropriate behavior which he himself does by stopping his car and asking non-compliant people to wear their masks, the statement said.

He re-emphasized on the need for wearing masks even in places of worship.

"The pandemic can only be fought when the government and society work in tandem," he was quoted as saying in the statement.

On the wide usage of investigational therapies such as plasma therapy and Remdesivir drug for combating COVID-19, Vardhan said the government has issued regular advisories regarding their rational usage and private hospitals have also been advised against routine use of these therapies.

The doctors in the states and UTs are being made aware of this through webinars and tele-consultation session of AIIMS, New Delhi, the statement stated.

On emerging evidence that COVID-19 infection not only impacts our lungs, but other organ systems too, especially cardiovascular and renal functions, the minister said the Ministry of Health has already set up committees of experts to look into these facets of the disease.

"ICMR is also actively investigating and researching reports of reinfection and although the number of reinfection cases is negligible at this moment, the government is fully seized of the importance of the matter," he said.

Vardhan stated that states/UTs have also been advised to lower the prices of COVID-19 tests.

In the early days of the pandemic, as the kits were imported, the price tended to be high.

But now, supplies of testing kits have stabilised and domestic production of these kits has commenced, the statement said.

He said his ministry has written to the states and Union territories to engage private laboratories at mutually agreeable lower rates.

He said he has spoken personally to several state health ministers regarding reduction in prices of testing in their respective states.

On a question related to 'Atma-nirbhar Bharat Yojana', the minister spoke of India's two-pronged strategy of incentivising production and creation of common infrastructure for high-quality medicines and medical devices to make the country self-reliant.

He said the government is ensuring that there is import substitution in this sector.

Vardhan said in the last few months since the outbreak of the pandemic, India had made rapid strides in the 'manufacturing of ventilators, PPEs, testing kits and many medical devices'.

On disparity in setting up AIIMS in different regions and only one for the entire North East, he talked about the Central Scheme Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojana (PMSSY) aimed at correcting the regional imbalances in healthcare.

Other than setting up new AIIMS, the scheme also aims to upgrade the existing medical infrastructure in the entire country in a phased manner.

Under different phases of the scheme, the central government will establish new medical colleges attached with existing district and referral hospitals in Dhubri, Nagaon, North Lakhimpur, Diphu and Kokrajhar districts in Assam, Churachandrapur in Manipur West Garo Hills district in Meghalaya, Falkawan district in Mizoram, and Kohima and Mon in Nagaland.

Vardhan also stated that the Centre has added 29,185 MBBS seats in the last five years.

Responding to questions on strengthening the public health system, he talked about the Union government's commitment to "increase the public healthcare spending as a percentage of GDP from the existing 1.15 per cent to 2.5 per cent by 2025", which "will mean an actual increase of 345 per cent over the current share in this short period of time."

The ICMR's second sero-survey shows that Indian population is still far from achieving herd immunity against coronavirus infection, Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan said on Sunday while underlining the need for following COVID appropriate behaviour.

The ICMR's second sero-survey shows that Indian population is still far from achieving herd immunity against coronavirus infection, Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan said on Sunday while underlining the need for following COVID appropriate behaviour. He also stressed that masks be worn even in places of worship. During an interaction with his social media followers, the minister said the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) is actively researching on reports of COVID-19 reinfection and although the number of such cases is negligible at this moment, the government is fully seized of the importance of the matter, the health ministry said in a statement. He cautioned that the sero-survey report should not create a sense of complacency among the people. The first sero-survey of May 2020 had revealed that the nationwide prevalence of novel coronavirus infection was only 0.73 per cent. "Even the soon to be released second sero-survey indications are that we are far from having achieved any kind of herd immunity which necessitates that all of us should continue following COVID appropriate behaviour," Vardhan said in response to the queries posed by his social media followers on 'Sunday Samvad' platform. The health minister also dispelled fears regarding the phased opening of schools, and advised on proper protocol to be followed while visiting salons and hair spas, the ministry said. He asked everyone to always raise awareness regarding COVID appropriate behavior which he himself does by stopping his car and asking non-compliant people to wear their masks, the statement said. He re-emphasized on the need for wearing masks even in places of worship. "The pandemic can only be fought when the government and society work in tandem," he was quoted as saying in the statement. On the wide usage of investigational therapies such as plasma therapy and Remdesivir drug for combating COVID-19, Vardhan said the government has issued regular advisories regarding their rational usage and private hospitals have also been advised against routine use of these therapies. The doctors in the states and UTs are being made aware of this through webinars and tele-consultation session of AIIMS, New Delhi, the statement stated. On emerging evidence that COVID-19 infection not only impacts our lungs, but other organ systems too, especially cardiovascular and renal functions, the minister said the Ministry of Health has already set up committees of experts to look into these facets of the disease. "ICMR is also actively investigating and researching reports of reinfection and although the number of reinfection cases is negligible at this moment, the government is fully seized of the importance of the matter," he said. Vardhan stated that states/UTs have also been advised to lower the prices of COVID-19 tests. In the early days of the pandemic, as the kits were imported, the price tended to be high. But now, supplies of testing kits have stabilised and domestic production of these kits has commenced, the statement said. He said his ministry has written to the states and Union territories to engage private laboratories at mutually agreeable lower rates. He said he has spoken personally to several state health ministers regarding reduction in prices of testing in their respective states. On a question related to 'Atma-nirbhar Bharat Yojana', the minister spoke of India's two-pronged strategy of incentivising production and creation of common infrastructure for high-quality medicines and medical devices to make the country self-reliant. He said the government is ensuring that there is import substitution in this sector. Vardhan said in the last few months since the outbreak of the pandemic, India had made rapid strides in the 'manufacturing of ventilators, PPEs, testing kits and many medical devices'. On disparity in setting up AIIMS in different regions and only one for the entire North East, he talked about the Central Scheme Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojana (PMSSY) aimed at correcting the regional imbalances in healthcare. Other than setting up new AIIMS, the scheme also aims to upgrade the existing medical infrastructure in the entire country in a phased manner. Under different phases of the scheme, the central government will establish new medical colleges attached with existing district and referral hospitals in Dhubri, Nagaon, North Lakhimpur, Diphu and Kokrajhar districts in Assam, Churachandrapur in Manipur West Garo Hills district in Meghalaya, Falkawan district in Mizoram, and Kohima and Mon in Nagaland. Vardhan also stated that the Centre has added 29,185 MBBS seats in the last five years. Responding to questions on strengthening the public health system, he talked about the Union government's commitment to "increase the public healthcare spending as a percentage of GDP from the existing 1.15 per cent to 2.5 per cent by 2025", which "will mean an actual increase of 345 per cent over the current share in this short period of time."

Indians far from achieving herd immunity against COVID-19: ICMR second serosurvey report

A day after the prime ministers of India and Denmark met for a virtual summit, the latter's envoy, Freddy Svane, batted for diversification of the global chain initiative, saying his country was ready for it.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had earlier spoken about the need for alternate and diversified global supply chains at the summit and cited how India, Japan, Australia are coming together for supply chain initiative.&nbsp;

The envoy spoke exclusively to Wion's principal diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal about the Green Strategic partnership and explained how India's scale and Denmark's skills can come together. He also spoke about the Kim Davy issue -- that India raised during the virtual summit.&nbsp;

This was the fourth such summit of the Indian prime minister amid the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;

Wion: India and Denmark agreed on green strategic partnership. Please elaborate.

Freddy Svane: This was the first virtual summit between India and any European country and we had a specific agenda -- to launch green strategic partnership. Early on, PM Modi had made clear that India had the scale -- 1.3 billion people, Denmark had the skills. India also has skills. We need a scope. The green strategic partnership is a way of focussing on every kind of cooperation that will improve the situation vis-a-vis climate change, energy, and food processing. Programmes like clean tap water, doubling of farmers income -- we can play a role. Around 1.4 billion people are entering into a relationship with Danes. We are proud of that. As PM Modi said, greener partnership of the new age. It will create jobs in India, many Danish companies are ready to invest more in India to secure greener transformation. It is about shaping future -- we moving from green, greener and greenest kind of attitude. As PM said at the UN, we need to reform, perform and transform. On Monday, we are following that mantra. We are very happy about that.

Wion: One of the key outcomes of the virtual summit is Denmark joining the international solar alliance. How important is it for your country?

Freddy Svane: We have to take note of that whatever we try to do globally on climate change, nothing will be successful without India being part of it. India has to be part of it. In that context, ISA, which is one of the most important projects launched by the Modi government is very important for changing the energy mix and secure green mindset is coming to all of us. We are ready to join ISA; our prime minister gave a commitment on Monday. All preparatory works are being done. We see huge potential for India and the ambitious agenda outlined by the Indian government, we have the tech, money so that India can be a global hub for onshore, offshore and wind energy. We are connecting in the greenway and that is about the future.

Wion: Indian PM during the virtual summit called for diversification of global supply chain, and without taking China's name highlighted how risky it has been to be dependent on a "single source". He also cited India, Japan, Australia supply chain resilience initiative. Your reaction?

Freddy Svane: First and foremost, COVID-19 was discussed on Monday. Both PMs, agreed, we need to find a global solution to the pandemic, it will not be the last one. We all have learnt our lessons and need to be much more resilient in dealing with the crisis. Both called for strong multilateral cooperation in the field. They took note of that, the pandemic had a negative impact on the global economy. In that perspective, we realised that traditional global supply chains are put at risk. And therefore, we need to reduce the risk. And naturally, India comes in as an alternative and India has been vocal about that. We saw the Japan, India, Australia initiative. That is something we are ready to consider. It is not to be seen as kind as a reaction to specific countries; it is about securing the global economy and benefits from the global economy comes to us. Nobody can live without global economy. Happy to tell, both PM agreed, FTA between India EU need to be finalised as soon as possible. Instead of focussing on what went wrong, its important to focus on how we can change things and benefits the whole world, India and Denmark. That is how I see.

Wion: This is the fourth virtual summit and first standalone virtual summit of an Indian prime minister with any European country. A reflection of growing closeness? &nbsp;

Freddy Svane: The EAM in his book very cleverly and smartly talked about the India way -- India has to reach to a different continent and different countries. We are extremely happy New Delhi thought about Denmark; we have been working on it with mutual interest on both sides. In Denmark, we have 6 million people and we are punching well beyond that on green technology and in that context, there are mutual benefits. You are a big country; you need to build strategic ties with small counties. We have our own history, but we have a specific relationship with your prime minister which is important to us.

Wion: Kim Davy issue was also raised during the meet.

Freddy Svane: I recall it myself. I was the envoy from 2010-2015. The two prime ministers discussed it and we took note of strong interests on both sides to have this matter resolved. Now we are moving forward.&nbsp;

The fact that India decided to enter into a green strategic partnership with Denmark is also significant and symbolises that we are here to create a future.&nbsp;

A day after the prime ministers of India and Denmark met for a virtual summit, the latter's envoy, Freddy Svane, batted for diversification of the global chain initiative, saying his country was ready for it.

A day after the prime ministers of India and Denmark met for a virtual summit, the latter's envoy, Freddy Svane, batted for diversification of the global chain initiative, saying his country was ready for it. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had earlier spoken about the need for alternate and diversified global supply chains at the summit and cited how India, Japan, Australia are coming together for supply chain initiative. The envoy spoke exclusively to Wion's principal diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal about the Green Strategic partnership and explained how India's scale and Denmark's skills can come together. He also spoke about the Kim Davy issue -- that India raised during the virtual summit. This was the fourth such summit of the Indian prime minister amid the coronavirus pandemic. Wion: India and Denmark agreed on green strategic partnership. Please elaborate. Freddy Svane: This was the first virtual summit between India and any European country and we had a specific agenda -- to launch green strategic partnership. Early on, PM Modi had made clear that India had the scale -- 1.3 billion people, Denmark had the skills. India also has skills. We need a scope. The green strategic partnership is a way of focussing on every kind of cooperation that will improve the situation vis-a-vis climate change, energy, and food processing. Programmes like clean tap water, doubling of farmers income -- we can play a role. Around 1.4 billion people are entering into a relationship with Danes. We are proud of that. As PM Modi said, greener partnership of the new age. It will create jobs in India, many Danish companies are ready to invest more in India to secure greener transformation. It is about shaping future -- we moving from green, greener and greenest kind of attitude. As PM said at the UN, we need to reform, perform and transform. On Monday, we are following that mantra. We are very happy about that. Wion: One of the key outcomes of the virtual summit is Denmark joining the international solar alliance. How important is it for your country? Freddy Svane: We have to take note of that whatever we try to do globally on climate change, nothing will be successful without India being part of it. India has to be part of it. In that context, ISA, which is one of the most important projects launched by the Modi government is very important for changing the energy mix and secure green mindset is coming to all of us. We are ready to join ISA; our prime minister gave a commitment on Monday. All preparatory works are being done. We see huge potential for India and the ambitious agenda outlined by the Indian government, we have the tech, money so that India can be a global hub for onshore, offshore and wind energy. We are connecting in the greenway and that is about the future. Wion: Indian PM during the virtual summit called for diversification of global supply chain, and without taking China's name highlighted how risky it has been to be dependent on a "single source". He also cited India, Japan, Australia supply chain resilience initiative. Your reaction? Freddy Svane: First and foremost, COVID-19 was discussed on Monday. Both PMs, agreed, we need to find a global solution to the pandemic, it will not be the last one. We all have learnt our lessons and need to be much more resilient in dealing with the crisis. Both called for strong multilateral cooperation in the field. They took note of that, the pandemic had a negative impact on the global economy. In that perspective, we realised that traditional global supply chains are put at risk. And therefore, we need to reduce the risk. And naturally, India comes in as an alternative and India has been vocal about that. We saw the Japan, India, Australia initiative. That is something we are ready to consider. It is not to be seen as kind as a reaction to specific countries; it is about securing the global economy and benefits from the global economy comes to us. Nobody can live without global economy. Happy to tell, both PM agreed, FTA between India EU need to be finalised as soon as possible. Instead of focussing on what went wrong, its important to focus on how we can change things and benefits the whole world, India and Denmark. That is how I see. Wion: This is the fourth virtual summit and first standalone virtual summit of an Indian prime minister with any European country. A reflection of growing closeness? Freddy Svane: The EAM in his book very cleverly and smartly talked about the India way -- India has to reach to a different continent and different countries. We are extremely happy New Delhi thought about Denmark; we have been working on it with mutual interest on both sides. In Denmark, we have 6 million people and we are punching well beyond that on green technology and in that context, there are mutual benefits. You are a big country; you need to build strategic ties with small counties. We have our own history, but we have a specific relationship with your prime minister which is important to us. Wion: Kim Davy issue was also raised during the meet. Freddy Svane: I recall it myself. I was the envoy from 2010-2015. The two prime ministers discussed it and we took note of strong interests on both sides to have this matter resolved. Now we are moving forward. The fact that India decided to enter into a green strategic partnership with Denmark is also significant and symbolises that we are here to create a future.

Denmark backs India on diversification of global supply chains

Serum Institute of India will make up to 200 million COVID-19 vaccine doses for poorer countries, including India, next year, as the Bill &amp; Melinda Gates Foundation and GAVI vaccines alliance have doubled their funding, the company said on Tuesday.

The extra funds will help Serum boost manufacturing of the vaccine candidates from AstraZeneca Plc and Novavax Inc, for delivery under the COVAX scheme as early as the first half of 2021.

The collaboration takes forward an initial agreement signed in August by Serum, GAVI and the Gates Foundation for 100 million doses to be priced at a maximum of $3 each.

The total funding provided is now $300 million, and the expanded collaboration also has an option for the provision of additional doses as needed.

The so-called COVAX plan, co-led by the World Health Organization (WHO) and GAVI, aims to deliver 2 billion vaccine doses around the world by the end of 2021. More than 150 nations have joined the plan, though China and the United States have not signed up.

The global death toll from COVID-19 passed 1 million on Tuesday, according to a Reuters tally.

India, which leads the world in the daily average number of new infections reported, saw its coronavirus case tally rise to 6.15 million as of Tuesday.

Serum Institute of India will make up to 200 million COVID-19 vaccine doses for poorer countries, including India, next year, as the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and GAVI vaccines alliance have doubled their funding, the company said on Tuesday.

Serum Institute of India will make up to 200 million COVID-19 vaccine doses for poorer countries, including India, next year, as the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and GAVI vaccines alliance have doubled their funding, the company said on Tuesday. The extra funds will help Serum boost manufacturing of the vaccine candidates from AstraZeneca Plc and Novavax Inc, for delivery under the COVAX scheme as early as the first half of 2021. The collaboration takes forward an initial agreement signed in August by Serum, GAVI and the Gates Foundation for 100 million doses to be priced at a maximum of $3 each. The total funding provided is now $300 million, and the expanded collaboration also has an option for the provision of additional doses as needed. The so-called COVAX plan, co-led by the World Health Organization (WHO) and GAVI, aims to deliver 2 billion vaccine doses around the world by the end of 2021. More than 150 nations have joined the plan, though China and the United States have not signed up. The global death toll from COVID-19 passed 1 million on Tuesday, according to a Reuters tally. India, which leads the world in the daily average number of new infections reported, saw its coronavirus case tally rise to 6.15 million as of Tuesday.

Serum Institute of India to boost production of COVID-19 vaccine doses to 200 million

Ligen Eliyas deftly turns the excavator's hydraulic arm to push a huge boulder into the Zanskar river below in a cloud of dust, clearing another bit of land for a strategic highway that India is hurriedly building near the Chinese border.

The construction site near the hamlet of Chilling in the Ladakh region is around 250 km (150 miles) west of the area where Indian and Chinese troops are locked in the most serious confrontation in decades.

But when ready, the road will provide the only year-round access to large parts of Ladakh, including the border zone.&nbsp;

Also see|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/india-china-standoff-how-indias-t-90-bhishma-battle-tank-is-outflanking-chinas-pla-at-lac-328483" hreflang="en">India-China standoff: How India's T-90 Bhishma battle tank is outflanking China's PLA at LAC</a>

"It will become a lot easier for the army after this road is finished," Eliyas said, with parts of his face and khaki uniform caked in fine stone dust.

The protracted standoff in the remote western Himalayan region erupted into a bloody hand-to-hand clash in June in which 20 Indian soldiers were killed and China suffered an unspecified number of casualties. The Asian giants fought a brief but bloody border war in 1962.

Also see|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/india-china-standoff-how-indian-military-is-preparing-for-the-treacherous-high-altitude-winter-against-pla-at-lac-327944" hreflang="en">India-China standoff: How Indian military is preparing for the treacherous, high-altitude winter against PLA at LAC</a>

The 283-km (175-mile)-long Nimmu-Padam-Darcha (NPD) highway, where Eliyas is working, is expected to be completed in three years, officials said. It highlights the efforts by India, which have been redoubled after the latest tensions, to develop key infrastructure - roads, tunnels, bridges and airfields - along the unsettled 3,500 km (2,170 mile) border with China.

The road will link up with an 8.8-km tunnel that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate in coming weeks, opening the snow deserts of Ladakh to the rest of the country all year round.

There are two main highways that connect Ladakh to the rest of India, but they are closed for at least four months every winter. The only way urgent supplies are sent to Ladakh during these months is by air.

With thousands of its troops amassed at the border and no sign of a drawdown, India is now pushing harder to blast and smash its way through the Himalayas.

"We will not back down from taking any big and tough step in the interest of our country," Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh told parliament this month, adding the government had doubled the budget for infrastructure work on the China border.

The frenetic construction itself has become a thorny issue this summer with the Chinese complaining that the Indian activity in the mountains was destabilising, Indian officials said. But China built its infrastructure in the area years ago, and it needs to be matched, they said.

"China does not recognise the so-called 'Ladakh Union Territory' illegally set up by India and is opposed to infrastructure building at the border area for the purpose of military control," the office of China's foreign ministry spokesperson said. It added that according to a recent consensus by both sides, no side should be taking any action that complicates the situation at the border area.

China's Defence Ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

MATTER OF HOURS

China's network of roads and railways, logistics depots and helipads mean that it can move troops to forward areas in a matter of hours, said Rajeswari Pillai Rajagopalan, a distinguished fellow at New Delhi think-tank Observer Research Foundation.

For India, it would take days to match those deployments, she said.

"The infrastructure buildup by the Chinese is not only aiming at the quick deployment of forces but also to sustain them for a relatively longer period of time," Rajagopalan said.

Conceived in 1999, India's NPD project moved at a glacial pace till work picked just a couple of year ago, said N.K. Jain, a commander in the state-run Border Roads Organisation (BRO).

Since then, the BRO has built some 100 km of the NPD project, and constructed 11 of the 15 major bridges on the route. "Our work is happening at double the speed in the last two years," Jain said.

New drilling machines that push dynamite sticks deeper and faster into hard rock to blow them apart have improved the speed of construction, said B. Kishen, a BRO executive engineer who is supervising the project near Chilling.

On a recent afternoon, dozens of workers cleared debris from a freshly blasted section of the road. A few kilometres away, another group crouched under an excavator as explosives went off to clear land for another section of the highway.

Work will continue through the bitter winter, when temperatures drop to below minus 40 Celsius (minus 40 Fahrenheit) and biting winds at altitudes above 11,000 feet (3,300 m) make road construction even more challenging, Kishen said.

The government has identified 73 strategically important roads along the Chinese border, of which 61 are with the BRO, running over 3,300 km (2,000 miles). A parliamentary committee report in March noted that 75% of the work under BRO had been completed.

The full network of roads will cut down travel time between key Indian military bases, allowing for quicker mobilisation of troops and ease patrolling in some forward areas, an Indian official said.

"It will also lead to lower expenditure for the forces," the official said, with all-weather roads replacing the need for expensive airlift operations during the winter months.

"We will have a better chance of catching up with the Chinese."

Ligen Eliyas deftly turns the excavator's hydraulic arm to push a huge boulder into the Zanskar river below in a cloud of dust, clearing another bit of land for a strategic highway that India is hurriedly building near the Chinese border.

Ligen Eliyas deftly turns the excavator's hydraulic arm to push a huge boulder into the Zanskar river below in a cloud of dust, clearing another bit of land for a strategic highway that India is hurriedly building near the Chinese border. The construction site near the hamlet of Chilling in the Ladakh region is around 250 km (150 miles) west of the area where Indian and Chinese troops are locked in the most serious confrontation in decades. But when ready, the road will provide the only year-round access to large parts of Ladakh, including the border zone. Also see| India-China standoff: How India's T-90 Bhishma battle tank is outflanking China's PLA at LAC "It will become a lot easier for the army after this road is finished," Eliyas said, with parts of his face and khaki uniform caked in fine stone dust. The protracted standoff in the remote western Himalayan region erupted into a bloody hand-to-hand clash in June in which 20 Indian soldiers were killed and China suffered an unspecified number of casualties. The Asian giants fought a brief but bloody border war in 1962. Also see| India-China standoff: How Indian military is preparing for the treacherous, high-altitude winter against PLA at LAC The 283-km (175-mile)-long Nimmu-Padam-Darcha (NPD) highway, where Eliyas is working, is expected to be completed in three years, officials said. It highlights the efforts by India, which have been redoubled after the latest tensions, to develop key infrastructure - roads, tunnels, bridges and airfields - along the unsettled 3,500 km (2,170 mile) border with China. The road will link up with an 8.8-km tunnel that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate in coming weeks, opening the snow deserts of Ladakh to the rest of the country all year round. There are two main highways that connect Ladakh to the rest of India, but they are closed for at least four months every winter. The only way urgent supplies are sent to Ladakh during these months is by air. With thousands of its troops amassed at the border and no sign of a drawdown, India is now pushing harder to blast and smash its way through the Himalayas. "We will not back down from taking any big and tough step in the interest of our country," Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh told parliament this month, adding the government had doubled the budget for infrastructure work on the China border. The frenetic construction itself has become a thorny issue this summer with the Chinese complaining that the Indian activity in the mountains was destabilising, Indian officials said. But China built its infrastructure in the area years ago, and it needs to be matched, they said. "China does not recognise the so-called 'Ladakh Union Territory' illegally set up by India and is opposed to infrastructure building at the border area for the purpose of military control," the office of China's foreign ministry spokesperson said. It added that according to a recent consensus by both sides, no side should be taking any action that complicates the situation at the border area. China's Defence Ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment. MATTER OF HOURS China's network of roads and railways, logistics depots and helipads mean that it can move troops to forward areas in a matter of hours, said Rajeswari Pillai Rajagopalan, a distinguished fellow at New Delhi think-tank Observer Research Foundation. For India, it would take days to match those deployments, she said. "The infrastructure buildup by the Chinese is not only aiming at the quick deployment of forces but also to sustain them for a relatively longer period of time," Rajagopalan said. Conceived in 1999, India's NPD project moved at a glacial pace till work picked just a couple of year ago, said N.K. Jain, a commander in the state-run Border Roads Organisation (BRO). Since then, the BRO has built some 100 km of the NPD project, and constructed 11 of the 15 major bridges on the route. "Our work is happening at double the speed in the last two years," Jain said. New drilling machines that push dynamite sticks deeper and faster into hard rock to blow them apart have improved the speed of construction, said B. Kishen, a BRO executive engineer who is supervising the project near Chilling. On a recent afternoon, dozens of workers cleared debris from a freshly blasted section of the road. A few kilometres away, another group crouched under an excavator as explosives went off to clear land for another section of the highway. Work will continue through the bitter winter, when temperatures drop to below minus 40 Celsius (minus 40 Fahrenheit) and biting winds at altitudes above 11,000 feet (3,300 m) make road construction even more challenging, Kishen said. The government has identified 73 strategically important roads along the Chinese border, of which 61 are with the BRO, running over 3,300 km (2,000 miles). A parliamentary committee report in March noted that 75% of the work under BRO had been completed. The full network of roads will cut down travel time between key Indian military bases, allowing for quicker mobilisation of troops and ease patrolling in some forward areas, an Indian official said. "It will also lead to lower expenditure for the forces," the official said, with all-weather roads replacing the need for expensive airlift operations during the winter months. "We will have a better chance of catching up with the Chinese."

India builds Himalayan bridges and highways amid standoff with China

India has yet again highlighted that victims of 26/11 Mumbai terror attack &amp; Pathankot terror attack are yet to get justice due to Pakistan's "non-cooperative" attitude.

Speaking at the 2nd Ministerial Meeting of the Group of Friends of Victims of terrorism, Secretary (East) Vijay Thakur Singh in ministry of external affairs said, “would like to highlight that, for example, the victims of 2008 Mumbai terror attack and 2016 Pathankot terror attack are yet to get justice."

Pointing at Pakistan said, “This is due to the unwillingness and non-cooperative attitude of a particular country."

Both the attacks were perpetrated by Pakistan based terror groups and despite India giving evidence of their involvement, Islamabad has taken on action against them.

Indian Diplomat said that "While terrorists can never succeed in achieving their nefarious objectives" they leave behind a "trail of death and destruction" &amp; even, amidst the ongoing pandemic, "terrorism continues to pose a critical threat to international peace and security", stepping up the use of information technology "for propaganda and for issuing threats further exacerbating the stress on victims of terror."

India has been calling for a common definition of terror via CCIT or Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism at the United Nations. Proposed in 1996 by India, the draft remains stuck due to lack of consensus at the world body.

Secretary (East) elaborated on the impact of terrorism on women and children saying “Acts of terrorism not only violate the rights of individual victims but they also deeply affect the enjoyment of a range of rights by the families of the victims and society as a whole."

Adding," Measures aimed at addressing the needs of the victims of terrorism, therefore, should factor in the sensitivities of these vulnerable sections of the society. Efforts should also be made to work with the victims to build a counter narrative against the hateful propaganda of terrorism."

Group of Friends of Victims of Terrorism was launched last year by UN Secretary-General António Guterres. Group is the initiative of the Permanent Missions of Afghanistan and Spain to the United Nations, and has 24 Member States including India. UN Office of Counter-Terrorism &amp; UN Office on Drugs and Crime are observer members of the grouping.

India has yet again highlighted that victims of 26/11 Mumbai terror attack & Pathankot terror attack are yet to get justice due to Pakistan's "non-cooperative" attitude.

India has yet again highlighted that victims of 26/11 Mumbai terror attack & Pathankot terror attack are yet to get justice due to Pakistan's "non-cooperative" attitude. Speaking at the 2nd Ministerial Meeting of the Group of Friends of Victims of terrorism, Secretary (East) Vijay Thakur Singh in ministry of external affairs said, “would like to highlight that, for example, the victims of 2008 Mumbai terror attack and 2016 Pathankot terror attack are yet to get justice." Pointing at Pakistan said, “This is due to the unwillingness and non-cooperative attitude of a particular country." Both the attacks were perpetrated by Pakistan based terror groups and despite India giving evidence of their involvement, Islamabad has taken on action against them. Indian Diplomat said that "While terrorists can never succeed in achieving their nefarious objectives" they leave behind a "trail of death and destruction" & even, amidst the ongoing pandemic, "terrorism continues to pose a critical threat to international peace and security", stepping up the use of information technology "for propaganda and for issuing threats further exacerbating the stress on victims of terror." India has been calling for a common definition of terror via CCIT or Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism at the United Nations. Proposed in 1996 by India, the draft remains stuck due to lack of consensus at the world body. Secretary (East) elaborated on the impact of terrorism on women and children saying “Acts of terrorism not only violate the rights of individual victims but they also deeply affect the enjoyment of a range of rights by the families of the victims and society as a whole." Adding," Measures aimed at addressing the needs of the victims of terrorism, therefore, should factor in the sensitivities of these vulnerable sections of the society. Efforts should also be made to work with the victims to build a counter narrative against the hateful propaganda of terrorism." Group of Friends of Victims of Terrorism was launched last year by UN Secretary-General António Guterres. Group is the initiative of the Permanent Missions of Afghanistan and Spain to the United Nations, and has 24 Member States including India. UN Office of Counter-Terrorism & UN Office on Drugs and Crime are observer members of the grouping.

Victims of 26/11 Mumbai terror attack and Pathankot terror attack still waiting for justice, says India

India's External Affairs minister S Jaishankar will visit Tokyo next week from October 6 to 7 for Quad Foreign ministers meet. Quad is a grouping of four countries--India, Japan, Australia and United States.&nbsp;

Foreign ministers of all 4 Quad countries--US Secretary of state Mike Pompeo, Indian External Affairs minister S Jaishankar, Australian Foreign Minister Marise Payne, Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi will be present for the face to face meeting, a first amid the pandemic.

Ministry of external affairs in a release said," Foreign Ministers shall discuss the post-Covid 19 international order and the need for a coordinated response to the various challenges emerging from the pandemic"

The four ministers will also "discuss regional issues and collectively affirm the importance of maintaining a free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific.", the release added.

This is the 2nd such Quad FMs meet. Last year, all FMs of Quad countries met on the sidelines of United Nations General assembly.

This will be first such major diplomatic engagement of the new Japanese Prime minister Yoshihide Suga.

The grouping, whose focus is on "free and open" Indo Pacific is viewed suspiciously by China.

India's External Affairs minister S Jaishankar will visit Tokyo next week from October 6 to 7 for Quad Foreign ministers meet. Quad is a grouping of four countries--India, Japan, Australia and United States.

India's External Affairs minister S Jaishankar will visit Tokyo next week from October 6 to 7 for Quad Foreign ministers meet. Quad is a grouping of four countries--India, Japan, Australia and United States. Foreign ministers of all 4 Quad countries--US Secretary of state Mike Pompeo, Indian External Affairs minister S Jaishankar, Australian Foreign Minister Marise Payne, Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi will be present for the face to face meeting, a first amid the pandemic. Ministry of external affairs in a release said," Foreign Ministers shall discuss the post-Covid 19 international order and the need for a coordinated response to the various challenges emerging from the pandemic" The four ministers will also "discuss regional issues and collectively affirm the importance of maintaining a free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific.", the release added. This is the 2nd such Quad FMs meet. Last year, all FMs of Quad countries met on the sidelines of United Nations General assembly. This will be first such major diplomatic engagement of the new Japanese Prime minister Yoshihide Suga. The grouping, whose focus is on "free and open" Indo Pacific is viewed suspiciously by China.

External affairs minister S Jaishankar to visit Japan during October 6-7 for Quad meeting

Worst clashes have broken out between Christian Majority Armenia and Muslim majority Azerbaijan over Nagorno-Karabakh, a dispute dating back 2 decades-- a remnant of Soviet legacy.&nbsp;

Nagorno-Karabakh is internationally recognized as part of Azerbaijan but has ethnic Armenian a majority. And global reactions have been pouring in and threatens to draw Moscow which backs Armenia and Turkey that back Azerbaijan into the conflict.&nbsp;

As always, South Asia has its own views about. India has good ties with both Armenia and Azerbaijan. The North-South international transport corridor goes from Mumbai to Chabahar via Azerbaijan to Moscow, something crucial for India's connectivity plans.&nbsp;

Infact, in 2018, the then Indian External affairs minister Sushma Swaraj had visited fire time in Baku. The temple was once used by Hindu and Zoroastrian communities, probably by visiting merchants from India as a place of worship.

But when it comes to Armenia, it backs India on some key several fronts. Last year in response to a WION question in New York on the sidelines of United Nations general assembly that Turkey has been raking Kashmir, Armenian PM Nikol Pashinyan said,"In the Kashmir issue we fully defend the Indian position and it is our firm position."

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Exclusive?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Exclusive</a> | Armenian PM <a href="https://twitter.com/NikolPashinyan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NikolPashinyan</a> speaks to <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@WIONews</a> 
In an exclusive chat with WION's <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@sidhant</a>, Pashinyan said, '<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Armenia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Armenia</a> backs <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a> on the issue of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kashmir?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kashmir</a>' <a href="https://t.co/sJXhj83pn6">pic.twitter.com/sJXhj83pn6</a>
— WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1177238251196710914?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 26, 2019</a></blockquote>
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That time, Indian PM Narendra Modi had even met the Armenian PM. In a tweet, PM Modi said, "Held extensive deliberations with PM @NikolPashinyan. We talked about expanding India-Armenia cooperation in aspects relating to technology, pharmaceuticals and agro-based industries."

During the meet, PM Pashinyan referred to the popularity of Indian movies, music and Yoga in Armenia.&nbsp;

Earlier this year when Armenian PM was detected with COVID, PM Modi tweeted for a speedy recovery. He said,"In this difficult time of COVID-19 pandemic, wishing Armenian PM @NikolPashinyan and his family a speedy recovery. India stands with Armenia in the fight against COVID-19."

Moving on to Pakistan, and it is the only country in the world that does not recognize Armenia. Islamabad's close ties with Azerbaijan and Turkey have a substantial role in this decision. On expected lines, Pakistan was the first and only South Asian country to comment on the clashes so far, and in line with Turkish reaction backing Azerbaijan.

Pakistani foreign ministry said, "Pakistan is deeply concerned on the deteriorating security situation in Nagorno-Karabakh region. The intensive shelling by Armenian forces over the weekend on civilian populations of Azerbaijani villages of Terter, Aghdam, Fizuli and Jabrayil region is reprehensible and most unfortunate."

Adding," Pakistan stands with the brotherly nation of Azerbaijan and supports its right of self-defence. We support Azerbaijan’s position on Nagorno-Karabakh, which is in line with the several unanimously adopted UN Security Council resolutions."

And like Ankara, Islamabad doesn't recognize the Armenian Genocide during World War 1. During the world war one, Ottomans or present-day Turkey killed 1.5 million ethnic Armenians. Turkey continues to deny the genocide till this date but a number of countries including the US, Russia recognize it.

Worst clashes have broken out between Christian Majority Armenia and Muslim majority Azerbaijan over Nagorno-Karabakh, a dispute dating back 2 decades-- a remnant of Soviet legacy.

Worst clashes have broken out between Christian Majority Armenia and Muslim majority Azerbaijan over Nagorno-Karabakh, a dispute dating back 2 decades-- a remnant of Soviet legacy. Nagorno-Karabakh is internationally recognized as part of Azerbaijan but has ethnic Armenian a majority. And global reactions have been pouring in and threatens to draw Moscow which backs Armenia and Turkey that back Azerbaijan into the conflict. As always, South Asia has its own views about. India has good ties with both Armenia and Azerbaijan. The North-South international transport corridor goes from Mumbai to Chabahar via Azerbaijan to Moscow, something crucial for India's connectivity plans. Infact, in 2018, the then Indian External affairs minister Sushma Swaraj had visited fire time in Baku. The temple was once used by Hindu and Zoroastrian communities, probably by visiting merchants from India as a place of worship. But when it comes to Armenia, it backs India on some key several fronts. Last year in response to a WION question in New York on the sidelines of United Nations general assembly that Turkey has been raking Kashmir, Armenian PM Nikol Pashinyan said,"In the Kashmir issue we fully defend the Indian position and it is our firm position." #Exclusive | Armenian PM @NikolPashinyan speaks to @WIONews In an exclusive chat with WION's @sidhant, Pashinyan said, '#Armenia backs #India on the issue of #Kashmir' pic.twitter.com/sJXhj83pn6 — WION (@WIONews) September 26, 2019 × That time, Indian PM Narendra Modi had even met the Armenian PM. In a tweet, PM Modi said, "Held extensive deliberations with PM @NikolPashinyan. We talked about expanding India-Armenia cooperation in aspects relating to technology, pharmaceuticals and agro-based industries." During the meet, PM Pashinyan referred to the popularity of Indian movies, music and Yoga in Armenia. Earlier this year when Armenian PM was detected with COVID, PM Modi tweeted for a speedy recovery. He said,"In this difficult time of COVID-19 pandemic, wishing Armenian PM @NikolPashinyan and his family a speedy recovery. India stands with Armenia in the fight against COVID-19." Moving on to Pakistan, and it is the only country in the world that does not recognize Armenia. Islamabad's close ties with Azerbaijan and Turkey have a substantial role in this decision. On expected lines, Pakistan was the first and only South Asian country to comment on the clashes so far, and in line with Turkish reaction backing Azerbaijan. Pakistani foreign ministry said, "Pakistan is deeply concerned on the deteriorating security situation in Nagorno-Karabakh region. The intensive shelling by Armenian forces over the weekend on civilian populations of Azerbaijani villages of Terter, Aghdam, Fizuli and Jabrayil region is reprehensible and most unfortunate." Adding," Pakistan stands with the brotherly nation of Azerbaijan and supports its right of self-defence. We support Azerbaijan’s position on Nagorno-Karabakh, which is in line with the several unanimously adopted UN Security Council resolutions." And like Ankara, Islamabad doesn't recognize the Armenian Genocide during World War 1. During the world war one, Ottomans or present-day Turkey killed 1.5 million ethnic Armenians. Turkey continues to deny the genocide till this date but a number of countries including the US, Russia recognize it.

Armenia- Azerbaijan clashes: Dynamics in the Indian subcontinent 

A container vessel X-Press Godavari, at anchorage off Sandheads in West Bengal has reported a fire onboard.&nbsp; 
 
The last port of call of this vessel was Kelang, Malaysia and she was headed for Kolkata. The ship has 15 crew on board.&nbsp; 
 
The Indian Coast Guard has mobilized three vessels to the location and one Dornier aircraft is airborne for surveillance and assessment.&nbsp; 
 
The vessel which has reported a fire is 150m long cargo carrier, holding containers. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

A container vessel X-Press Godavari, at anchorage off Sandheads in West Bengal has reported a fire onboard. The last port of call of this vessel was Kelang, Malaysia and she was headed for Kolkata.

A container vessel X-Press Godavari, at anchorage off Sandheads in West Bengal has reported a fire onboard. The last port of call of this vessel was Kelang, Malaysia and she was headed for Kolkata. The ship has 15 crew on board. The Indian Coast Guard has mobilized three vessels to the location and one Dornier aircraft is airborne for surveillance and assessment. The vessel which has reported a fire is 150m long cargo carrier, holding containers. (With inputs from agencies)

Container vessel ablaze off West Bengal Coast, Coast Guard mobilizes 3 ships and 1 aircraft

India on Monday reported 95,542 new infections in the past 24 hours, crossing 60 lakh cases across the country even as the central government continues to work out measures to contain the outbreak. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-death-toll-crosses-1-million-mark-as-europe-battles-second-wave-330779">Also read | Coronavirus death toll crosses 1 million-mark as Europe battles second wave</a> 
 
According to the Ministry of Health &amp; Family Welfare the total coronavirus case tally stands at 60,74,703 including 9,62,640 active cases, 5,01,6521 cured/discharged/migrated &amp; 95,542. 
 
The number of patients who have died of the viral disease in India since the first death on March 12, is 95,567. 
 
Maharashtra continues to be the worst affected by the pandemic with 2,73,646 active cases, 10,30,015 cured and discharged cases and 35,571 deaths. 
 
Karnataka with 1,04,743 active cases is the next in the list. While 4,62,241 patients have been cured in the State, the disease has claimed 8,582 lives so far. 
 
Andhra Pradesh with 64,876 active cases is also severely affected, however, over six lakh patients have been cured in the State, while 5,708 deaths have occurred due to it. 
 
Meanwhile, according to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), 7,19,67,230 samples have been tested up to September 27 for COVID-19.Out of these 7,09,394 samples were tested yesterday. 
 
On the global front, More than one million people around the world have lost their lives from coronavirus, a virus that was emerged less than a year ago, but still continues to affect many countries.

According to an AFP tally, Covid-19 has killed 1,000,009 people with 33,018,877 total infections.

(With inputs from agencies)

India on Monday reported 95,542 new infections in the past 24 hours, crossing 60 lakh cases across the country even as the central government continues to work out measures to contain the outbreak.

India on Monday reported 95,542 new infections in the past 24 hours, crossing 60 lakh cases across the country even as the central government continues to work out measures to contain the outbreak. Also read | Coronavirus death toll crosses 1 million-mark as Europe battles second wave According to the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare the total coronavirus case tally stands at 60,74,703 including 9,62,640 active cases, 5,01,6521 cured/discharged/migrated & 95,542. The number of patients who have died of the viral disease in India since the first death on March 12, is 95,567. Maharashtra continues to be the worst affected by the pandemic with 2,73,646 active cases, 10,30,015 cured and discharged cases and 35,571 deaths. Karnataka with 1,04,743 active cases is the next in the list. While 4,62,241 patients have been cured in the State, the disease has claimed 8,582 lives so far. Andhra Pradesh with 64,876 active cases is also severely affected, however, over six lakh patients have been cured in the State, while 5,708 deaths have occurred due to it. Meanwhile, according to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), 7,19,67,230 samples have been tested up to September 27 for COVID-19.Out of these 7,09,394 samples were tested yesterday. On the global front, More than one million people around the world have lost their lives from coronavirus, a virus that was emerged less than a year ago, but still continues to affect many countries. According to an AFP tally, Covid-19 has killed 1,000,009 people with 33,018,877 total infections. (With inputs from agencies)

India's Covid-19 tally crosses 60-lakh mark, deaths close in on 1 lakh

Indian External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar has said that "cry for reformed multilateralism becomes stronger than ever before," highlighting how the coronavirus crisis has "laid bare the shortcomings of multilateral institutions."

Addressing the Alliance for Multilateral Meeting, the EAM spoke on United Nations saying that at the body "we could not even agree on fighting the virus, let alone coordinate responses. This reflects a larger systemic failure. Clearly, the multilateral machinery is exhausted, if not broken."

The comments come even as India has been calling for reforms at multilateral institutions, including at reformed United Nations Security Council. Four out of five members of the UNSC -- Russia, US, UK and France have backed India at the high table in UN, except China. 
&nbsp; 
S Jaishankar highlighted how even as "supply-chains snapped and the world stopped" due to the pandemic, "Prime Minister Modi issued a call fora ‘Aatma-Nirbhar Bharat."

Addressing India's response to COVID crisis at global level, EAM said, "Our approach is to develop solidarity within and outside our borders. During this pandemic, we extended medical aid, personnel and training to 150 countries. Our flights of returning nationals carried our neighbours."&nbsp;

India, notably, amidst the COVID pandemic sent crucial medicines like hydroxychloroquine and paracetamol to around 150 countries.

Indian External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar has said that "cry for reformed multilateralism becomes stronger than ever before," highlighting how the coronavirus crisis has "laid bare the shortcomings of multilateral institutions.

Indian External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar has said that "cry for reformed multilateralism becomes stronger than ever before," highlighting how the coronavirus crisis has "laid bare the shortcomings of multilateral institutions." Addressing the Alliance for Multilateral Meeting, the EAM spoke on United Nations saying that at the body "we could not even agree on fighting the virus, let alone coordinate responses. This reflects a larger systemic failure. Clearly, the multilateral machinery is exhausted, if not broken." The comments come even as India has been calling for reforms at multilateral institutions, including at reformed United Nations Security Council. Four out of five members of the UNSC -- Russia, US, UK and France have backed India at the high table in UN, except China. S Jaishankar highlighted how even as "supply-chains snapped and the world stopped" due to the pandemic, "Prime Minister Modi issued a call fora ‘Aatma-Nirbhar Bharat." Addressing India's response to COVID crisis at global level, EAM said, "Our approach is to develop solidarity within and outside our borders. During this pandemic, we extended medical aid, personnel and training to 150 countries. Our flights of returning nationals carried our neighbours." India, notably, amidst the COVID pandemic sent crucial medicines like hydroxychloroquine and paracetamol to around 150 countries.

Cry for reformed multilateralism stronger than ever before: EAM S Jaishankar

New Delhi raised the issue of extradition of Kim Davy or Niels Holck during the India-Denmark virtual summit on Monday. Kim Davy is the key conspirator of 1995 arms drop in Purulia district of West Bengal.

Joint Secretary (Central Europe) Neeta Bhushan, spokesperson in the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) told WION: "It was agreed concerned officials from both sides will be in touch with each other. Both sides will work for the early resolution of the issue."

In 2012, India decided to scale down ties with Denmark after a lower court in the country refused extradition of Kim Davy and the government refused to go for a further appeal.&nbsp;

In 2018, speaking to WION in Stockholm the then prime minister of Denmark, Lars Løkke Rasmussen, said, "These issues - we deal in the legal track. When I was PM in 2011, my minister of Justice took the decision to extradite him. But it was rejected by our courts. But now our director of general prosecution is looking into this. On political tract we will restart joint commission."

New Delhi raised the issue of extradition of Kim Davy or Niels Holck during the India-Denmark virtual summit on Monday. Kim Davy is the key conspirator of 1995 arms drop in Purulia district of West Bengal.

New Delhi raised the issue of extradition of Kim Davy or Niels Holck during the India-Denmark virtual summit on Monday. Kim Davy is the key conspirator of 1995 arms drop in Purulia district of West Bengal. Joint Secretary (Central Europe) Neeta Bhushan, spokesperson in the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) told WION: "It was agreed concerned officials from both sides will be in touch with each other. Both sides will work for the early resolution of the issue." In 2012, India decided to scale down ties with Denmark after a lower court in the country refused extradition of Kim Davy and the government refused to go for a further appeal. In 2018, speaking to WION in Stockholm the then prime minister of Denmark, Lars Løkke Rasmussen, said, "These issues - we deal in the legal track. When I was PM in 2011, my minister of Justice took the decision to extradite him. But it was rejected by our courts. But now our director of general prosecution is looking into this. On political tract we will restart joint commission."

Extradition of Kim Davy discussed at India-Denmark virtual summit

The defence ministry on Monday approved the procurement of arms and military equipment worth Rs 2,290 crore including around 72,000 Sig Sauer assault rifles from the United States, officials said.

The procurement proposals were approved at a meeting of the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), the defence ministry's highest decision-making body on procurement.

Besides clearing the proposal to buy the rifles, the other notable acquisitions approved by the DAC include procurement of smart anti- airfield weapon (SAAW) systems for the Navy and the Indian Air Force at an approximate cost of Rs 970, the officials said.

"The DAC headed by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh accorded approval for various arms and equipment worth Rs 2,290 crore," the defence ministry said.

The cost of procurement of the Sig Sauer assault rifles for the frontline troops of the Indian Army will be Rs 780 crore, officials said.

They said the DAC also accorded approval for procurement of Static HF Tans-receiver sets under the buy Indian category at a cost of Rs 540 crore. The HF radio sets will enable seamless communication for the field units of the Army and the Air Force.

The military equipment are being procured at a time Indian Army is locked in a bitter border row with China in eastern Ladakh.

The defence ministry on Monday approved the procurement of arms and military equipment worth Rs 2,290 crore including around 72,000 Sig Sauer assault rifles from the United States, officials said.

The defence ministry on Monday approved the procurement of arms and military equipment worth Rs 2,290 crore including around 72,000 Sig Sauer assault rifles from the United States, officials said. The procurement proposals were approved at a meeting of the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), the defence ministry's highest decision-making body on procurement. Besides clearing the proposal to buy the rifles, the other notable acquisitions approved by the DAC include procurement of smart anti- airfield weapon (SAAW) systems for the Navy and the Indian Air Force at an approximate cost of Rs 970, the officials said. "The DAC headed by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh accorded approval for various arms and equipment worth Rs 2,290 crore," the defence ministry said. The cost of procurement of the Sig Sauer assault rifles for the frontline troops of the Indian Army will be Rs 780 crore, officials said. They said the DAC also accorded approval for procurement of Static HF Tans-receiver sets under the buy Indian category at a cost of Rs 540 crore. The HF radio sets will enable seamless communication for the field units of the Army and the Air Force. The military equipment are being procured at a time Indian Army is locked in a bitter border row with China in eastern Ladakh.

Defence Ministry approves acquisition of military hardware worth Rs 2,290 crore

Chennai Air Customs officials seized two parcels that contained a total of 165 MDMA or Ecstasy pills, worth Rs 5 lakhs or USD6779, that arrived at the Foreign post Office from Netherlands. The postal parcels were intercepted on suspicion of containing narcotic substances.&nbsp;

The first parcel contained 105 MDMA tablets with “PP” marking commonly known as “Philipp Plein”. The parcel was addressed to an individual in Chennai city, butthe address was found to be incomplete.

60 MDMA “Blue Punisher” pills embossed with skull mark were recovered from the second parcel. These tablets contain around 300mg of MDMA which is very high dose. The parcel arrived from Zwolle, a city in north-eastern Netherlands and was addressed to a person in Tirupur district.

According to officials, searches revealed that the recipient address was of a textile company, with fake consignee name.

Total 165 MDMA tablets valued at Rs. 5 lakhs were recovered and seized under the NDPS Act, 1985.

MDMA (3-4 methylenedioxymethamphetamine) is a synthetic, psychoactive drug with a chemical structure similar to the stimulant methamphetamine and the hallucinogen mescaline. MDMA is an illegal drug that acts as both a stimulant and psychedelic, producing an energizing effect, as well as distortions in time and perception and enhanced enjoyment from tactile experiences. It is known commonly as Ecstasy and Molly.

MDMA can produce stimulant effects such as an enhanced sense of pleasure and self-confidence and increased energy. Its psychedelic effects include feelings of peacefulness, acceptance, and empathy. It is an addictive drug with abuse potential.&nbsp;

Chennai Air Customs officials seized two parcels that contained a total of 165 MDMA or Ecstasy pills, worth Rs 5 lakhs or USD6779, that arrived at the Foreign post Office from Netherlands.

Chennai Air Customs officials seized two parcels that contained a total of 165 MDMA or Ecstasy pills, worth Rs 5 lakhs or USD6779, that arrived at the Foreign post Office from Netherlands. The postal parcels were intercepted on suspicion of containing narcotic substances. The first parcel contained 105 MDMA tablets with “PP” marking commonly known as “Philipp Plein”. The parcel was addressed to an individual in Chennai city, butthe address was found to be incomplete. 60 MDMA “Blue Punisher” pills embossed with skull mark were recovered from the second parcel. These tablets contain around 300mg of MDMA which is very high dose. The parcel arrived from Zwolle, a city in north-eastern Netherlands and was addressed to a person in Tirupur district. According to officials, searches revealed that the recipient address was of a textile company, with fake consignee name. Total 165 MDMA tablets valued at Rs. 5 lakhs were recovered and seized under the NDPS Act, 1985. MDMA (3-4 methylenedioxymethamphetamine) is a synthetic, psychoactive drug with a chemical structure similar to the stimulant methamphetamine and the hallucinogen mescaline. MDMA is an illegal drug that acts as both a stimulant and psychedelic, producing an energizing effect, as well as distortions in time and perception and enhanced enjoyment from tactile experiences. It is known commonly as Ecstasy and Molly. MDMA can produce stimulant effects such as an enhanced sense of pleasure and self-confidence and increased energy. Its psychedelic effects include feelings of peacefulness, acceptance, and empathy. It is an addictive drug with abuse potential.

165 Ecstasy pills from Netherlands seized in Chennai; worth USD6779

Rescuers searched frantically Monday for a 12-year-old girl believed buried for two days under a vast garbage heap which collapsed while she was scavenging in western India.

Neha Vasava and a six-year-old boy were on top of a 25-30 metre (80-100 feet) mountain of trash at Ahmedabad's biggest rubbish dump when it collapsed on Saturday evening.

An estimated four million Indians -- many of them children -- work in filthy, dangerous conditions, as as "rag pickers", sifting through trash for metal and other materials to sell.

"The boy was also buried in the garbage, but since his head could be seen locals rescued him," deputy chief fire officer MP Mistry told AFP.

"Our operation will continue till we find her."

Mistry said rescue conditions were very difficult "as one cannot breath properly surrounded by tonnes of garbage", and also because of packs of roaming feral dogs.&nbsp;

The dump, which receives around 3,500 tonnes of garbage a day from the city of 5.6 million people, is home to several hundred impoverished families who work as rag pickers.

According to UNICEF well over 41 million children aged under 12 are forced to work in South Asia.

Experts say lockdowns imposed to combat the coronavirus have exacerbated the child labour problem.

Rescuers searched frantically Monday for a 12-year-old girl believed buried for two days under a vast garbage heap which collapsed while she was scavenging in western India.

Rescuers searched frantically Monday for a 12-year-old girl believed buried for two days under a vast garbage heap which collapsed while she was scavenging in western India. Neha Vasava and a six-year-old boy were on top of a 25-30 metre (80-100 feet) mountain of trash at Ahmedabad's biggest rubbish dump when it collapsed on Saturday evening. An estimated four million Indians -- many of them children -- work in filthy, dangerous conditions, as as "rag pickers", sifting through trash for metal and other materials to sell. "The boy was also buried in the garbage, but since his head could be seen locals rescued him," deputy chief fire officer MP Mistry told AFP. "Our operation will continue till we find her." Mistry said rescue conditions were very difficult "as one cannot breath properly surrounded by tonnes of garbage", and also because of packs of roaming feral dogs. The dump, which receives around 3,500 tonnes of garbage a day from the city of 5.6 million people, is home to several hundred impoverished families who work as rag pickers. According to UNICEF well over 41 million children aged under 12 are forced to work in South Asia. Experts say lockdowns imposed to combat the coronavirus have exacerbated the child labour problem.

Rescuers dig through Indian trash dump for 12-year-old 'rag picker'

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his virtual summit with Denmark's PM Mette Frederiksen called for diversification of global supply chain, and without taking China's name highlighted how risky it has been to be dependent&nbsp;on a "single source".

He said, "COVID-19 has shown us, that global supply chain can't be dependent on a single source and it has been risky". Adding, "We are working with Australia and Japan for diversification of the supply chain. Other like-minded nations can join us"

Global supply has been China led, something which has been a cause of worry. Earlier this month, India, Australia and Japan announced a supply chain resilience initiative which called for enhancing the resilience of supply chains in the Indo-Pacific region.

Indian PM said, "The events of the past few months have made it clear that for like-minded countries like us, who share a rules-based, transparent, humanitarian and democratic value-system need to work together".

On COVID crisis, he called for collaboration in the like-minded country and said India will leverage its pharmaceutical advantage for the benefit of the world.

Denmark's PM Mette Frederiksen said, "the summit is a milestone for our bilateral relations, on an important and forward-looking agreement on the green strategic partnership".

India and Denmark have also agreed on 2nd India Nordic countries summit. The first such summit took place in 2018 in Stockholm.&nbsp;This is the 4th virtual meet of Indian PM due to the pandemic. He has already met the leaders of Australia, EU and Sri Lanka.&nbsp;

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his virtual summit with Denmark's PM Mette Frederiksen called for diversification of global supply chain, and without taking China's name highlighted how risky it has been to be dependent on a "single source".

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his virtual summit with Denmark's PM Mette Frederiksen called for diversification of global supply chain, and without taking China's name highlighted how risky it has been to be dependent on a "single source". He said, "COVID-19 has shown us, that global supply chain can't be dependent on a single source and it has been risky". Adding, "We are working with Australia and Japan for diversification of the supply chain. Other like-minded nations can join us" Global supply has been China led, something which has been a cause of worry. Earlier this month, India, Australia and Japan announced a supply chain resilience initiative which called for enhancing the resilience of supply chains in the Indo-Pacific region. Indian PM said, "The events of the past few months have made it clear that for like-minded countries like us, who share a rules-based, transparent, humanitarian and democratic value-system need to work together". On COVID crisis, he called for collaboration in the like-minded country and said India will leverage its pharmaceutical advantage for the benefit of the world. Denmark's PM Mette Frederiksen said, "the summit is a milestone for our bilateral relations, on an important and forward-looking agreement on the green strategic partnership". India and Denmark have also agreed on 2nd India Nordic countries summit. The first such summit took place in 2018 in Stockholm. This is the 4th virtual meet of Indian PM due to the pandemic. He has already met the leaders of Australia, EU and Sri Lanka.

At India-Denmark virtual summit, PM Modi calls for diversification of global supply chains

An 8-year-old climate change activist from India, Licypriya Kangujam is trying to single-handedly save the planet before we reach a point of no return.

Kangujam told Reuters that she intends to embark on a solo mission to the moon when she’s older in a bid to find ways to save the Earth. "I will go to the moon and I will research how we can get the fresh air to breathe, and how we can get water, fresh water to drink, and food, how to grow the crops," she said.

Kangujam is one of the world’s youngest climate change activists. Reuters reported that she felt it was a cause worth taking up after witnessing the immense devastation and loss of life caused in Nepal when earthquakes struck the country in 2015. The quakes took lives of 9,000 people and reduced one million homes to rubble.

<h6><img alt="Licypriya Kangujam, 8, India's young climate activist, carrying a placard is stopped by a policewoman during a protest demanding to pass a climate change law outside the parliament in New Delhi, India, September 23, 2020" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ddbb54a3-89fb-4428-b5fb-b78c0da04527" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%281%29_154.jpg" />Licypriya Kangujam, 8, India's young climate activist, carrying a placard is stopped by a policewoman during a protest demanding to pass a climate change law outside the parliament in New Delhi, India, September 23, 2020 | Reuters</h6>

When she was only four, Kangujam, with the help of her father raised funds for the affected by the tragedy.

Now, she wants Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to take notice of her cause. She wants lawmakers in the country to pass new legislation to cap carbon emissions. India is the world’s third-largest emitter of greenhouse gases.

"I am fighting to save our planet and our future," she said during a protest outside the Indian Parliament on September 23.

She bore a placard saying, “Child movement for climate, pass the climate change law."

Kangujam is a native of the Indian northeastern state of Manipur, which is home to much clearer air as opposed to the capital New Delhi, which makes global headlines every year for pollution during winters.

"I am worried about the health of the school children and small, small babies," Kangujam told Reuters.

”Our planet is dying soon”, she said.

An 8-year-old climate change activist from India, Licypriya Kangujam is trying to single-handedly save the planet before we reach a point of no return. Kangujam told Reuters that she intends to embark on a solo mission to the moon when she’s older in a bid to find ways to save the Earth.

An 8-year-old climate change activist from India, Licypriya Kangujam is trying to single-handedly save the planet before we reach a point of no return. Kangujam told Reuters that she intends to embark on a solo mission to the moon when she’s older in a bid to find ways to save the Earth. "I will go to the moon and I will research how we can get the fresh air to breathe, and how we can get water, fresh water to drink, and food, how to grow the crops," she said. Kangujam is one of the world’s youngest climate change activists. Reuters reported that she felt it was a cause worth taking up after witnessing the immense devastation and loss of life caused in Nepal when earthquakes struck the country in 2015. The quakes took lives of 9,000 people and reduced one million homes to rubble. Licypriya Kangujam, 8, India's young climate activist, carrying a placard is stopped by a policewoman during a protest demanding to pass a climate change law outside the parliament in New Delhi, India, September 23, 2020 | Reuters When she was only four, Kangujam, with the help of her father raised funds for the affected by the tragedy. Now, she wants Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to take notice of her cause. She wants lawmakers in the country to pass new legislation to cap carbon emissions. India is the world’s third-largest emitter of greenhouse gases. "I am fighting to save our planet and our future," she said during a protest outside the Indian Parliament on September 23. She bore a placard saying, “Child movement for climate, pass the climate change law." Kangujam is a native of the Indian northeastern state of Manipur, which is home to much clearer air as opposed to the capital New Delhi, which makes global headlines every year for pollution during winters. "I am worried about the health of the school children and small, small babies," Kangujam told Reuters. ”Our planet is dying soon”, she said.

'Our planet is dying soon': Meet India's youngest climate change activist

An Indian Army soldier&nbsp;has been injured after Pakistan violated ceasefire along the line of control (LOC) at Machil sector in Kupwara district this morning, army said.&nbsp;

The injured soldier was evacuated to army hospital where his condition remains stable. In response to the Pakistan’s provocation, Indian army said that they are giving befitting response.&nbsp;

“Pakistan initiated an unprovoked Ceasefire Violation along LoC in Machhhal Sector, Kupwara today morning by firing Mortars &amp; other weapons. Befitting response is being given. One soldier injured &amp; evacuated, condition stable,” Rajesh Kalia, Srinagar based Army spokesman said.&nbsp;

According to government figures, Pakistan has violated ceasefire 3186 times along the LoC in Jammu region till September 7 this year. Eight Indian army soldiers have been killed in action in these ceasefire violations so far.&nbsp;

An Indian Army soldier has been injured after Pakistan violated ceasefire along the line of control (LOC) at Machil sector in Kupwara district this morning, army said.

An Indian Army soldier has been injured after Pakistan violated ceasefire along the line of control (LOC) at Machil sector in Kupwara district this morning, army said. The injured soldier was evacuated to army hospital where his condition remains stable. In response to the Pakistan’s provocation, Indian army said that they are giving befitting response. “Pakistan initiated an unprovoked Ceasefire Violation along LoC in Machhhal Sector, Kupwara today morning by firing Mortars & other weapons. Befitting response is being given. One soldier injured & evacuated, condition stable,” Rajesh Kalia, Srinagar based Army spokesman said. According to government figures, Pakistan has violated ceasefire 3186 times along the LoC in Jammu region till September 7 this year. Eight Indian army soldiers have been killed in action in these ceasefire violations so far.

Indian Army soldier injured in Pakistan ceasefire violation in Kashmir

Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh on Monday said his government would approach the Supreme Court over the issue of new farm laws.

Talking to reporters here, he also suggested that Pakistan's spy agency ISI will use farmers' unrest over the new farm laws and will try to foment trouble in the border state of Punjab.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-new-farm-bills-whats-good-what-may-not-be-330262">India's new farm bills: What's good, what may not be</a>

Amarinder Singh, along with AICC general secretary and Punjab Affairs in-charge Harish Rawat, Punjab Congress chief Sunil Jakhar and others, paid tributes to Shaheed Bhagat Singh on his 113th birth anniversary at Khatkar Kalan village in SBS Nagar district.

Amarinder Singh, Rawat and others held a sit-in protest here against the new farm laws.

Addressing the gathering, the CM slammed the Centre for bringing the farm laws, saying they would "destroy" the farming community.

"I have said we will take this matter forward. The president has passed these bills and now we will take this matter to the Supreme Court," Singh said.

Stating that his government would take every possible step to protect the interest of the farming community, he said two advocates from Delhi would be coming here on Tuesday and the matter would be discussed with them.

To another question, he said, "The ISI always looks to whom and where it can give guns, bombs and grenades. They have been following it since the beginning. During the last three and half years of our regime, we have arrested around 150 terrorists and seized around 700 weapons."

"There has been peace in Punjab but when you try to take away someone's food, then won't he be angry. He becomes the target for ISI. That is why I am saying whatever they have done is anti-national," Singh added.

President Ram Nath Kovind on Sunday gave assent to three contentious farm bills that have triggered protests by farmers, especially in Punjab.

According to a gazette notification, the president gave assent to three bills -- the Farmers' Produce Trade and Commerce (Promotion and Facilitation) Bill, 2020, the Farmers (Empowerment and Protection) Agreement of Price Assurance and Farm Services Bill, 2020, and the Essential Commodities (Amendment) Bill, 2020.

Defending farmers for holding protests over the farm laws, the CM said they had the right to do so as "you are taking away their livelihood".

He accused the central government of snatching the rights of states.

"Now you have taken away (right over) the farm sector. Which thing will you leave with states? Will you leave it or not? You have taken away everything (from states). How will we run our states?" he added.

Talking to the media later, the CM expressed hope that Congress leader Rahul Gandhi would join protests against the new farm laws.

"We are going to request him to join us. Daily he is tweeting and making statements, saying whatever they (government) have done with farmers is a fraud. He will certainly join us," he said.

Slamming the Shiromani Akali Dal, which has exited the NDA, the CM said, "Akali Dal is now in a total lose-lose situation. You will find they will lose all over. They will try to use some other tactic that is not going to work because once you have let people down, once you have told them what sort of people you are nobody will trust you again." 
Earlier addressing the gathering, former Uttarakhand chief minister Harish Rawat said the Congress would fight farmers' battle.

He accused the BJP-led central government of "demolishing" the minimum support price, mandi system and PDS (public distribution system) with these farm laws.

"Their motive is to demolish everything which farmers have got after a long struggle. From the green and white revolution to till now, rights which farmers acquired, one by one all of them are being demolished with these farm laws," Singh said.

"MSP and mandi system will be dismantled with these farm laws and their next target is FCI," he said, claiming that they also want to demolish the Public Distribution System.&nbsp;

Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh on Monday said his government would approach the Supreme Court over the issue of new farm laws. Talking to reporters here, he also suggested that Pakistan's spy agency ISI will use farmers' unrest over the new farm laws and will try to foment trouble in the border state of Punjab.

Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh on Monday said his government would approach the Supreme Court over the issue of new farm laws. Talking to reporters here, he also suggested that Pakistan's spy agency ISI will use farmers' unrest over the new farm laws and will try to foment trouble in the border state of Punjab. Also read | India's new farm bills: What's good, what may not be Amarinder Singh, along with AICC general secretary and Punjab Affairs in-charge Harish Rawat, Punjab Congress chief Sunil Jakhar and others, paid tributes to Shaheed Bhagat Singh on his 113th birth anniversary at Khatkar Kalan village in SBS Nagar district. Amarinder Singh, Rawat and others held a sit-in protest here against the new farm laws. Addressing the gathering, the CM slammed the Centre for bringing the farm laws, saying they would "destroy" the farming community. "I have said we will take this matter forward. The president has passed these bills and now we will take this matter to the Supreme Court," Singh said. Stating that his government would take every possible step to protect the interest of the farming community, he said two advocates from Delhi would be coming here on Tuesday and the matter would be discussed with them. To another question, he said, "The ISI always looks to whom and where it can give guns, bombs and grenades. They have been following it since the beginning. During the last three and half years of our regime, we have arrested around 150 terrorists and seized around 700 weapons." "There has been peace in Punjab but when you try to take away someone's food, then won't he be angry. He becomes the target for ISI. That is why I am saying whatever they have done is anti-national," Singh added. President Ram Nath Kovind on Sunday gave assent to three contentious farm bills that have triggered protests by farmers, especially in Punjab. According to a gazette notification, the president gave assent to three bills -- the Farmers' Produce Trade and Commerce (Promotion and Facilitation) Bill, 2020, the Farmers (Empowerment and Protection) Agreement of Price Assurance and Farm Services Bill, 2020, and the Essential Commodities (Amendment) Bill, 2020. Defending farmers for holding protests over the farm laws, the CM said they had the right to do so as "you are taking away their livelihood". He accused the central government of snatching the rights of states. "Now you have taken away (right over) the farm sector. Which thing will you leave with states? Will you leave it or not? You have taken away everything (from states). How will we run our states?" he added. Talking to the media later, the CM expressed hope that Congress leader Rahul Gandhi would join protests against the new farm laws. "We are going to request him to join us. Daily he is tweeting and making statements, saying whatever they (government) have done with farmers is a fraud. He will certainly join us," he said. Slamming the Shiromani Akali Dal, which has exited the NDA, the CM said, "Akali Dal is now in a total lose-lose situation. You will find they will lose all over. They will try to use some other tactic that is not going to work because once you have let people down, once you have told them what sort of people you are nobody will trust you again." Earlier addressing the gathering, former Uttarakhand chief minister Harish Rawat said the Congress would fight farmers' battle. He accused the BJP-led central government of "demolishing" the minimum support price, mandi system and PDS (public distribution system) with these farm laws. "Their motive is to demolish everything which farmers have got after a long struggle. From the green and white revolution to till now, rights which farmers acquired, one by one all of them are being demolished with these farm laws," Singh said. "MSP and mandi system will be dismantled with these farm laws and their next target is FCI," he said, claiming that they also want to demolish the Public Distribution System.

Punjab CM says his govt will move SC over new farm laws, warns against ISI threat 

Artists in Kashmir valley have long been struggling for a physical art gallery to showcase their work but thanks to the pandemic that made them think out of the box.&nbsp;

Naushad Gayoor is a multidisciplinary artist and a fine art teacher from Srinagar who devotes most of his time to paintings and sculpture art. He has been striving hard to start a physical gallery that can showcase art in Kashmir valley. During the lockdown amid the COVID-19 pandemic, his idea of starting an online gallery has become a reality.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/pm-modi-interacts-with-afshan-ashiq-kashmiri-girl-ms-dhoni-fan-who-transformed-from-stone-pelter-to-jk-captain-329983" hreflang="en">PM Modi interacts with Afshan Ashiq - Kashmiri girl &amp; MS Dhoni fan who transformed from stone pelter to J&amp;K captain</a>

The website is amid at providing a much-required platform to the youth of the valley who would otherwise struggle to showcase their work. Under the name "FRAMES," the Gayoor Art Foundation aims at organizing more photography exhibitions, seminars, workshops, and talks through the online platform.&nbsp;

“We don't have a gallery but it doesn't mean we will not work. Finally, we decided to for an online gallery because this is the time of the internet and by this, we have more viewers,” says&nbsp;Naushad Gayoor,&nbsp;Founder &amp; curator of Gayoor Art Foundation.&nbsp;

Titled, "Let's move on" the website is currently showcasing the work of&nbsp;170 photographers&nbsp;from different countries like Greece, Turkey, Egypt, and Senegal and from different parts of India. Usually, artists from Kashmir would have to travel outside Jammu and Kashmir for exhibitions but now they are able to present their work to the global audience at the click of a button.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/india-news/pm-modi-asks-kohli-about-yo-yo-test-praises-jk-woman-footballer-afshan-ashiq-329922" hreflang="en">PM Modi asks Kohli about Yo-Yo test, praises J&amp;K woman footballer Afshan Ashiq&nbsp;</a>

“It has been since decades that people have been fighting for this physical space in Kashmir but it never happened. It's very heartening to looking at this online space for anyone associated with the art here. It's going to give them a wider audience,” says&nbsp;Showkat Kathjoo, an artist and a teacher.&nbsp;

The aim is also to help the emerging talent to witness the body of art from different countries to give them a new dimension. Several artists from the union territory have made their name global.&nbsp;

Artists in Kashmir valley have long been struggling for a physical art gallery to showcase their work but thanks to the pandemic that made them think out of the box.

Artists in Kashmir valley have long been struggling for a physical art gallery to showcase their work but thanks to the pandemic that made them think out of the box. Naushad Gayoor is a multidisciplinary artist and a fine art teacher from Srinagar who devotes most of his time to paintings and sculpture art. He has been striving hard to start a physical gallery that can showcase art in Kashmir valley. During the lockdown amid the COVID-19 pandemic, his idea of starting an online gallery has become a reality. Also read: PM Modi interacts with Afshan Ashiq - Kashmiri girl & MS Dhoni fan who transformed from stone pelter to J&K captain The website is amid at providing a much-required platform to the youth of the valley who would otherwise struggle to showcase their work. Under the name "FRAMES," the Gayoor Art Foundation aims at organizing more photography exhibitions, seminars, workshops, and talks through the online platform. “We don't have a gallery but it doesn't mean we will not work. Finally, we decided to for an online gallery because this is the time of the internet and by this, we have more viewers,” says Naushad Gayoor, Founder & curator of Gayoor Art Foundation. Titled, "Let's move on" the website is currently showcasing the work of 170 photographers from different countries like Greece, Turkey, Egypt, and Senegal and from different parts of India. Usually, artists from Kashmir would have to travel outside Jammu and Kashmir for exhibitions but now they are able to present their work to the global audience at the click of a button. Also read: PM Modi asks Kohli about Yo-Yo test, praises J&K woman footballer Afshan Ashiq “It has been since decades that people have been fighting for this physical space in Kashmir but it never happened. It's very heartening to looking at this online space for anyone associated with the art here. It's going to give them a wider audience,” says Showkat Kathjoo, an artist and a teacher. The aim is also to help the emerging talent to witness the body of art from different countries to give them a new dimension. Several artists from the union territory have made their name global.

Lockdown gives rise to creativity, J&K gets first online art gallery

In a report that has stoked fresh controversy for US President Donald Trump, a finding has said that the US president paid more taxes in 2017 in India as compared to the US.&nbsp;

The New York Times report claimed that in 2017 Trump paid $750 in federal income taxes in the US, while he/ his companies paid $1,45,400 taxes in India.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/donald-trump-faces-fresh-controversy-as-bombshell-report-claims-president-avoided-tax-for-years-330801">Donald Trump faces fresh controversy as bombshell report claims president avoided tax for years</a>

Trump immediately described the report as "fake news" and added that the true figures would be "revealed".&nbsp;

The report can cause a major blow to Trump's chances of becoming US president for another term as just a little over a month is left for the elections in the US.

Trump has already faced a lot of criticism over his response to the coronavirus pandemic that has worst-impacted the US and for his inability to resolve racial tensions across the country.

The report has also said the US president has not paid any federal income taxes in 10 of the previous 15 years before he came to power over the claims that he lost more money than he profiteered.&nbsp;

Trump also used deductions aircraft, residences, that includes $70,000 in hairstyling for TV appearances, the report said.&nbsp;

In a report that has stoked fresh controversy for US President Donald Trump, a finding has said that the US president paid more taxes in 2017 in India as compared to the US.

In a report that has stoked fresh controversy for US President Donald Trump, a finding has said that the US president paid more taxes in 2017 in India as compared to the US. The New York Times report claimed that in 2017 Trump paid $750 in federal income taxes in the US, while he/ his companies paid $1,45,400 taxes in India. Also read | Donald Trump faces fresh controversy as bombshell report claims president avoided tax for years Trump immediately described the report as "fake news" and added that the true figures would be "revealed". The report can cause a major blow to Trump's chances of becoming US president for another term as just a little over a month is left for the elections in the US. Trump has already faced a lot of criticism over his response to the coronavirus pandemic that has worst-impacted the US and for his inability to resolve racial tensions across the country. The report has also said the US president has not paid any federal income taxes in 10 of the previous 15 years before he came to power over the claims that he lost more money than he profiteered. Trump also used deductions aircraft, residences, that includes $70,000 in hairstyling for TV appearances, the report said.

Trump's businesses paid more taxes for India in 2017 than him for US: Report

Uma Bharti, Bharatiya Janata Party national vice-president, was admitted to AIIMS, Rishikesh, after testing positive for the novel coronavirus. She also complained of a high fever on Sunday night.

In a series of tweets since Sunday, Bharti said that she tested positive for the COVID-19 on Sunday after returning from the Himalayas.

"My relatives and well-wishers are worrying a lot about me after they got to know that I was tested positive for the coronavirus...," she said in a Hindi tweet on Sunday.

On Monday she tweeted that if the AIIMS authorities allow her, then she would like to appear in the special CBI court of Lucknow on Wednesday when it is likely to pronounce the verdict in the 1992 Babri Masjid demolition case.

"I have just been admitted to AIIMS, Rishikesh. There are three reasons: Dr Harshvardhan is worried for me; I got a high fever at (Sunday) night; and if I get a positive nod from the AIIMS after tests, then I would like to appear in the CBI court of Lucknow the day after tomorrow," she tweeted.

Urging the media not to blame the Himalayan saints, Bharti revealed that her driver had the coronavirus, but they were unaware of it till he was tested positive for COVID-19. "News is doing rounds in the media that I contracted the coronavirus from the saints in the Himalayas. I deny it...," she tweeted.&nbsp;

Uma Bharti, Bharatiya Janata Party national vice-president, was admitted to AIIMS, Rishikesh, after testing positive for the novel coronavirus. She also complained of a high fever on Sunday night.

Uma Bharti, Bharatiya Janata Party national vice-president, was admitted to AIIMS, Rishikesh, after testing positive for the novel coronavirus. She also complained of a high fever on Sunday night. In a series of tweets since Sunday, Bharti said that she tested positive for the COVID-19 on Sunday after returning from the Himalayas. "My relatives and well-wishers are worrying a lot about me after they got to know that I was tested positive for the coronavirus...," she said in a Hindi tweet on Sunday. On Monday she tweeted that if the AIIMS authorities allow her, then she would like to appear in the special CBI court of Lucknow on Wednesday when it is likely to pronounce the verdict in the 1992 Babri Masjid demolition case. "I have just been admitted to AIIMS, Rishikesh. There are three reasons: Dr Harshvardhan is worried for me; I got a high fever at (Sunday) night; and if I get a positive nod from the AIIMS after tests, then I would like to appear in the CBI court of Lucknow the day after tomorrow," she tweeted. Urging the media not to blame the Himalayan saints, Bharti revealed that her driver had the coronavirus, but they were unaware of it till he was tested positive for COVID-19. "News is doing rounds in the media that I contracted the coronavirus from the saints in the Himalayas. I deny it...," she tweeted.

BJP leader Uma Bharti tests COVID-19 positive, admitted to AIIMS Rishikesh

The Union Health Ministry of India has said that the total recoveries from COVID-19 in India has crossed the 5 million on Monday with recovered cases outpacing active cases by more than five times.

India becomes second country to register 6 million coronavirus cases

Over one million people have lost their lives from coronavirus, a virus that was emerged less than a year ago, but still continues to affect many countries.&nbsp;

Scientists around the world are working to develop a vaccine that could contain this deadly virus which was originated in China’s Wuhan. 
 
The researcher working on Coronavirus’s cause and effect have found that lack of a substance called ‘interferon’ is reportedly life-threatening to COVID-19 positive patients.

Interferon helps orchestrate defence against viral pathogens &amp; insufficient interferon may lurk at a dangerous turning point in Covid infections.

According to an article published in Science Magazine online "The body’s vanguard virus fighter, a molecular messenger called type I interferon, is missing in action in some severe cases. In a significant minority of patients with serious COVID-19, the interferon response has been crippled by genetic flaws or by rogue antibodies that attack interferon itself."&nbsp;

As the coronavirus pandemic has ravaged the global economy, increased poverty and triggered geopolitical tensions as it continues to spread at a brisk pace in countries like India, the United States and Brazil.

A fully tested and approved research would only explain a proportion of COVID-19's most serious cases, it just might be a discovery that could still save many lives worldwide.

(With inputs from agencies)

Over one million people have lost their lives from coronavirus, a virus that was emerged less than a year ago, but still continues to affect many countries. Scientists around the world are working to develop a vaccine that could contain this deadly virus which was originated in China’s Wuhan.

Over one million people have lost their lives from coronavirus, a virus that was emerged less than a year ago, but still continues to affect many countries. Scientists around the world are working to develop a vaccine that could contain this deadly virus which was originated in China’s Wuhan. The researcher working on Coronavirus’s cause and effect have found that lack of a substance called ‘interferon’ is reportedly life-threatening to COVID-19 positive patients. Interferon helps orchestrate defence against viral pathogens & insufficient interferon may lurk at a dangerous turning point in Covid infections. According to an article published in Science Magazine online "The body’s vanguard virus fighter, a molecular messenger called type I interferon, is missing in action in some severe cases. In a significant minority of patients with serious COVID-19, the interferon response has been crippled by genetic flaws or by rogue antibodies that attack interferon itself." As the coronavirus pandemic has ravaged the global economy, increased poverty and triggered geopolitical tensions as it continues to spread at a brisk pace in countries like India, the United States and Brazil. A fully tested and approved research would only explain a proportion of COVID-19's most serious cases, it just might be a discovery that could still save many lives worldwide. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Interferon’ insufficiency is the reason why coronavirus is deadly for some patients

The Union Health ministry of India has said that the total recoveries from COVID-19 in India has crossed the 50 lakh milestone on Monday with recovered cases outpacing active cases by more than five times.

The ministry in a press statement has said that "India's total recoveries have crossed the landmark milestone of 50 lakh today (50, 16,520). With a very high number of COVID patients recovering every single day, India's steady trend of posting high level of daily recoveries continues.”

"The total recovered cases have outpaced active cases by more than 5 times. With the exponential increase in the recoveries, there is close to 100 per cent increase in recovered cases in one month," it said. 
 
"Seventy-three per cent of the new recovered cases are being reported from ten states, viz. Maharashtra, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, Delhi, Kerala, Odisha, West Bengal and Punjab. Maharashtra leads the tally with more than 13,000 new cases of recovered patients," it said.

The ministry further said that 84 per cent of new deaths are reported from 10 States and UTs.

Meanwhile, India on Monday reported 95,542 new infections in the past 24 hours, crossing 60 lakh cases across the country even as the central government continues to work out measures to contain the outbreak.

According to the Ministry of Health &amp; Family Welfare the total coronavirus case tally stands at 60,74,703 including 9,62,640 active cases, 5,01,6521 cured/discharged/migrated &amp; 95,542.

The number of patients who have died of the viral disease in India since the first death on March 12, is 95,567.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Union Health ministry of India has said that the total recoveries from COVID-19 in India has crossed the 50 lakh milestone on Monday with recovered cases outpacing active cases by more than five times.

The Union Health ministry of India has said that the total recoveries from COVID-19 in India has crossed the 50 lakh milestone on Monday with recovered cases outpacing active cases by more than five times. The ministry in a press statement has said that "India's total recoveries have crossed the landmark milestone of 50 lakh today (50, 16,520). With a very high number of COVID patients recovering every single day, India's steady trend of posting high level of daily recoveries continues.” "The total recovered cases have outpaced active cases by more than 5 times. With the exponential increase in the recoveries, there is close to 100 per cent increase in recovered cases in one month," it said. "Seventy-three per cent of the new recovered cases are being reported from ten states, viz. Maharashtra, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, Delhi, Kerala, Odisha, West Bengal and Punjab. Maharashtra leads the tally with more than 13,000 new cases of recovered patients," it said. The ministry further said that 84 per cent of new deaths are reported from 10 States and UTs. Meanwhile, India on Monday reported 95,542 new infections in the past 24 hours, crossing 60 lakh cases across the country even as the central government continues to work out measures to contain the outbreak. According to the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare the total coronavirus case tally stands at 60,74,703 including 9,62,640 active cases, 5,01,6521 cured/discharged/migrated & 95,542. The number of patients who have died of the viral disease in India since the first death on March 12, is 95,567. (With inputs from agencies)

Coronavirus recoveries in India cross 50 lakh mark

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Coronavirus recoveries in India cross 50 lakh mark