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In a strong statement highlighting Pakistan's role in supporting terrorism, India has told the United Nations human rights council that Islamabad has de-listed 4000 international terrorists and continues to be a safe haven for terrorist.

India's first secretary to United Nations in Geneva, Pawan Badhe said, "full-scale training camps and launchpads of terrorists are being escalated in Pakistan Occupied parts of Indian Union Territories of Jammu &amp; Kashmir and Ladakh at great expense for sustaining cross border terrorism against India."

Explaining, "It's not without reason that Pakistan remains a safe harbour for terrorists. While the world is busy combatting Covid-19 pandemic, Pakistan hoodwinks the world to allow delisting more than 4000 proscribed terrorists to sustain its terror ecosystem."

The statement comes even as Pakistan's fate will be decided at Financial Action Task Force or FATF in October, where it remains on the grey list. Failing to full fill its anti-terror commitments means, it could be blacklisted next month.

Indian diplomat pointed to how the country is changing the demographics of Pakistan occupied Kashmir where he said, "Pakistan’s deceit and hypocrisy is best demonstrated when it orchestrated mass influx to Pakistan Occupied parts of Indian Union Territories of Jammu &amp; Kashmir and Ladakh through discriminatory domicile laws".

Adding, "Its baffling that there are 3 outsiders for every 4 in Pakistan Occupied parts of Indian Union Territories of Jammu &amp; Kashmir and Ladakh" and cited imprisonment of political activist like baba jan for raising voice.

The comments assume significance as Pakistan plans to declare Pakistan occupied Kashmir's Gilgit Baltistan as the 5th province of the country. 
 
India statement focused on the situation of minorities in the country, terming the country as "killing field for minorities" especially when "fate of religious and ethnic minorities is well known when beheading is the only option in Pakistan in exchange for the freedom of religion."

Pawan said, Pakistan has "institutionalized enforced disappearance" and has become "minefield for journalists and human rights defenders".

In a strong statement highlighting Pakistan's role in supporting terrorism, India has told the United Nations human rights council that Islamabad has de-listed 4000 international terrorists and continues to be a safe haven for terrorist.

In a strong statement highlighting Pakistan's role in supporting terrorism, India has told the United Nations human rights council that Islamabad has de-listed 4000 international terrorists and continues to be a safe haven for terrorist. India's first secretary to United Nations in Geneva, Pawan Badhe said, "full-scale training camps and launchpads of terrorists are being escalated in Pakistan Occupied parts of Indian Union Territories of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh at great expense for sustaining cross border terrorism against India." Explaining, "It's not without reason that Pakistan remains a safe harbour for terrorists. While the world is busy combatting Covid-19 pandemic, Pakistan hoodwinks the world to allow delisting more than 4000 proscribed terrorists to sustain its terror ecosystem." The statement comes even as Pakistan's fate will be decided at Financial Action Task Force or FATF in October, where it remains on the grey list. Failing to full fill its anti-terror commitments means, it could be blacklisted next month. Indian diplomat pointed to how the country is changing the demographics of Pakistan occupied Kashmir where he said, "Pakistan’s deceit and hypocrisy is best demonstrated when it orchestrated mass influx to Pakistan Occupied parts of Indian Union Territories of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh through discriminatory domicile laws". Adding, "Its baffling that there are 3 outsiders for every 4 in Pakistan Occupied parts of Indian Union Territories of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh" and cited imprisonment of political activist like baba jan for raising voice. The comments assume significance as Pakistan plans to declare Pakistan occupied Kashmir's Gilgit Baltistan as the 5th province of the country. India statement focused on the situation of minorities in the country, terming the country as "killing field for minorities" especially when "fate of religious and ethnic minorities is well known when beheading is the only option in Pakistan in exchange for the freedom of religion." Pawan said, Pakistan has "institutionalized enforced disappearance" and has become "minefield for journalists and human rights defenders".

Pakistan has de-listed more than 4000 international terrorists, India tells UN

The Indian Coast Guard rescued 12 crew of MSV Krishna Sudama, a cargo vessel sinking in the Arabian Sea off the Gujarat coast, officials said on Sunday.

The Coast Guard received information on Saturday at 9 PM that there was flooding onboard the vessel 'MSV Krishna Sudama' around 10 nautical miles off the Okha coast.

MSV Krishna Sudama had sailed from Mundra on the morning of Saturday (September 26) and was proceeding to Djibouti, carrying 905 ton cargo consisting of rice and sugar. 
 
<img alt="Indian Coast Guard" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a8a4e67e-d78f-4333-b1d4-f34f1c4f16f1" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/WhatsApp%20Image%202020-09-27%20at%2011.58.04%20AM.jpeg" />

"Search and rescue was immediately commenced wherein Coast Guard Ship C-411 sailed from Okha, C-161 was diverted from off Mundra, and MV Southern Robin in the vicinity of the area was diverted to render assistance," it said.

The Coast Guard ship C-411 arrived near the vessel in distress.

It undertook extensive search in the area and located the craft carrying 12 crew members who had abandoned the vessel as it was sinking due to flooding, it said.

The Coast Guard ship rescued all the 12 crew under challenging circumstances owing to night hours, floating dangerous debris and unfavourable weather conditions, it said.

"They were brought to Okha and are safe," the statement said.

The area where the incident took place is being monitored by the Coast Guard Ship C-161 so that it can combat any probable oil pollution incident that might result from leakage of fuel from the sunken dhow, it added.

(With inputs from PTI)

The Indian Coast Guard rescued 12 crew of MSV Krishna Sudama, a cargo vessel sinking in the Arabian Sea off the Gujarat coast, officials said on Sunday. The Coast Guard received information on Saturday at 9 PM that there was flooding onboard the vessel 'MSV Krishna Sudama' around 10 nautical miles off the Okha coast.

The Indian Coast Guard rescued 12 crew of MSV Krishna Sudama, a cargo vessel sinking in the Arabian Sea off the Gujarat coast, officials said on Sunday. The Coast Guard received information on Saturday at 9 PM that there was flooding onboard the vessel 'MSV Krishna Sudama' around 10 nautical miles off the Okha coast. MSV Krishna Sudama had sailed from Mundra on the morning of Saturday (September 26) and was proceeding to Djibouti, carrying 905 ton cargo consisting of rice and sugar. "Search and rescue was immediately commenced wherein Coast Guard Ship C-411 sailed from Okha, C-161 was diverted from off Mundra, and MV Southern Robin in the vicinity of the area was diverted to render assistance," it said. The Coast Guard ship C-411 arrived near the vessel in distress. It undertook extensive search in the area and located the craft carrying 12 crew members who had abandoned the vessel as it was sinking due to flooding, it said. The Coast Guard ship rescued all the 12 crew under challenging circumstances owing to night hours, floating dangerous debris and unfavourable weather conditions, it said. "They were brought to Okha and are safe," the statement said. The area where the incident took place is being monitored by the Coast Guard Ship C-161 so that it can combat any probable oil pollution incident that might result from leakage of fuel from the sunken dhow, it added. (With inputs from PTI)

Indian Coast Guard rescues 12 crew members of sinking cargo ship in Arabian Sea

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday assured the United Nations that the largest democracy of the world would help other nations in the development of a coronavirus vaccine.

PM Modi, in his UNGA address, also did not mince words in making&nbsp;a strong pitch&nbsp;for a more prominent role for&nbsp;India in UN's decision-making process. He also&nbsp;stressed&nbsp;the role New Delhi has played and continues to play in the international arena.

"Over 150 countries were sent medical supplies by Indian pharmaceuticals during the coronavirus pandemic. India's vaccine production will help in bringing the world out of the pandemic. We are moving towards Phase 3 of clinical trials. We are increasing infrastructure and will help others increase it," PM Modi said, in his pre-recorded video statement to the landmark General Debate of the 75th session of the UN General Assembly.

"India is proud of the fact that it is one of the founding members of the United Nations. On this historic occasion, I have come to this global platform to share the sentiments of 1.3 billion people of India," Modi said, adding, "if we were to make an objective assesment of the performance of UN over the last 75 years, we see several stellar achievements. But at the same time, there are also several instances that point to the need for a serious introspection of the work of the United Nations."

"The whole world has been battling the coronavirus pandemic for over eight to nine months now. Where is the United Nations in this joint fight against the pandemic? Where is its effective response?"

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-at-unga-bats-for-reforms-bigger-role-for-india-in-decision-making-330487">Also read |&nbsp;</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-at-unga-bats-for-reforms-bigger-role-for-india-in-decision-making-330487">At UNGA, PM Modi bats for reforms and a bigger role for India</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-at-unga-bats-for-reforms-bigger-role-for-india-in-decision-making-330487"> in decision-making</a>

He also said, "Reforms in the responses, in the processes, and in the very character of the UN &nbsp;is the need of the hour. It is a fact that the faith and respect that the UN enjoys among the 1.3 billion people in India is unparalleled."

"Indians are waiting for the reform of UN. They are worried whether the process will reach a logical end. Till when will India be kept away from the UN's decision-making process?" he said.

Modi also emphasised that he expected a better guidance and better supervision of the United Nations and the World Health Organisation (WHO) in the handling of the coronavirus pandemic.

"India has always stressed on good for the whole world in the UN. India is looking at an extended role in the UN. India began International Day of non-violence and Yoga was given by India. India has always thought about the welfare of the world. From our neighbourhood first policy to look-east policy, are all guided by these principles," he added.

This year's high-level UN General Assembly is being held in a largely virtual format due to the coronavirus pandemic. 
Earlier, India's Permanent Representative to the UN, T S Tirumurti, introduced Modi's pre-recorded statement from the General Assembly Hall.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday assured the United Nations that the largest democracy of the world would help other nations in the development of a coronavirus vaccine.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday assured the United Nations that the largest democracy of the world would help other nations in the development of a coronavirus vaccine. PM Modi, in his UNGA address, also did not mince words in making a strong pitch for a more prominent role for India in UN's decision-making process. He also stressed the role New Delhi has played and continues to play in the international arena. "Over 150 countries were sent medical supplies by Indian pharmaceuticals during the coronavirus pandemic. India's vaccine production will help in bringing the world out of the pandemic. We are moving towards Phase 3 of clinical trials. We are increasing infrastructure and will help others increase it," PM Modi said, in his pre-recorded video statement to the landmark General Debate of the 75th session of the UN General Assembly. "India is proud of the fact that it is one of the founding members of the United Nations. On this historic occasion, I have come to this global platform to share the sentiments of 1.3 billion people of India," Modi said, adding, "if we were to make an objective assesment of the performance of UN over the last 75 years, we see several stellar achievements. But at the same time, there are also several instances that point to the need for a serious introspection of the work of the United Nations." "The whole world has been battling the coronavirus pandemic for over eight to nine months now. Where is the United Nations in this joint fight against the pandemic? Where is its effective response?" Also read | At UNGA, PM Modi bats for reforms and a bigger role for India in decision-making He also said, "Reforms in the responses, in the processes, and in the very character of the UN is the need of the hour. It is a fact that the faith and respect that the UN enjoys among the 1.3 billion people in India is unparalleled." "Indians are waiting for the reform of UN. They are worried whether the process will reach a logical end. Till when will India be kept away from the UN's decision-making process?" he said. Modi also emphasised that he expected a better guidance and better supervision of the United Nations and the World Health Organisation (WHO) in the handling of the coronavirus pandemic. "India has always stressed on good for the whole world in the UN. India is looking at an extended role in the UN. India began International Day of non-violence and Yoga was given by India. India has always thought about the welfare of the world. From our neighbourhood first policy to look-east policy, are all guided by these principles," he added. This year's high-level UN General Assembly is being held in a largely virtual format due to the coronavirus pandemic. Earlier, India's Permanent Representative to the UN, T S Tirumurti, introduced Modi's pre-recorded statement from the General Assembly Hall.

India's vaccine-production capacity to help 'all humanity': PM Modi at UNGA

The government is aiming to implement all the four labour codes in one go by December this year and complete the final stretch of labour sector reforms, Union minister Santosh Gangwar has said.

Parliament in its just concluded session passed three labour code bills: the Industrial Relations Code, the Social Security Code, and the Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code.

The Wage Code Bill, 2019 was passed by Parliament last year.

The labour ministry had circulated the draft rules on the Wage Code Bill last year but held back its finalisation and implementation.

The ministry wanted to implement all the four codes and rules under those in one go as all of them are inter-linked.

Talking to PTI, Labour Minister Gangwar said, "Government is doing all efforts to complete the labour reforms by implementing the all four labour codes by December this year."

He further said the Wage Code Bill was passed last year and now with the passage of three more codes by Parliament, "the rules under these legislations would be enforced at once".

After the passage of a legislation in Parliament, it is sent for President of India assent.

A law comes into force after notification of rules.

Initially, draft rules under a law is notified with a stipulated time period to receive feedback.

Thereafter, these rules are finalised and implemented for bringing the law into force.

The draft rules of the three codes on industrial relations, social security and occupational safety, health and working conditions are likely to be circulated by the first week of November for feedback.

The labour ministry is expected to finalise and implement rules of the three codes along with already firmed wage code rules by December this year.

Thereafter, these four codes would become law of land to complete game-changing labour reforms in the country.

The government aims to catapult India to among the top 10 countries in World Bank's ease of doing business rankings with the comprehensive labour reforms.

As per the 'Doing Business' 2020 report, India had jumped 14 places to the 63rd position in the ease of doing business rankings.

India has improved its rank by 79 positions in five years (2014-19).

The higher ranking would boost investment and job creation in the country.

Commenting on labour reforms K E Raghunathan, Convenor of CIA (Consortium of Indian Association), said, "The COVID-19 situation has made both the life of employer and employee difficult. If the government statistics say over 21 million Job loss during April to August then the figure of employers who lost enterprises is yet to be ascertained. We estimate them to be around 30 per cent of over 65 million enterprises."

He further stated, "Under these circumstances, these new (labour) codes are bound to make new enterprises investor friendly, increase ease of doing business and make it attractive to invite foreign entities which want to come out of China."

The government is aiming to implement all the four labour codes in one go by December this year and complete the final stretch of labour sector reforms, Union minister Santosh Gangwar has said.

The government is aiming to implement all the four labour codes in one go by December this year and complete the final stretch of labour sector reforms, Union minister Santosh Gangwar has said. Parliament in its just concluded session passed three labour code bills: the Industrial Relations Code, the Social Security Code, and the Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code. The Wage Code Bill, 2019 was passed by Parliament last year. The labour ministry had circulated the draft rules on the Wage Code Bill last year but held back its finalisation and implementation. The ministry wanted to implement all the four codes and rules under those in one go as all of them are inter-linked. Talking to PTI, Labour Minister Gangwar said, "Government is doing all efforts to complete the labour reforms by implementing the all four labour codes by December this year." He further said the Wage Code Bill was passed last year and now with the passage of three more codes by Parliament, "the rules under these legislations would be enforced at once". After the passage of a legislation in Parliament, it is sent for President of India assent. A law comes into force after notification of rules. Initially, draft rules under a law is notified with a stipulated time period to receive feedback. Thereafter, these rules are finalised and implemented for bringing the law into force. The draft rules of the three codes on industrial relations, social security and occupational safety, health and working conditions are likely to be circulated by the first week of November for feedback. The labour ministry is expected to finalise and implement rules of the three codes along with already firmed wage code rules by December this year. Thereafter, these four codes would become law of land to complete game-changing labour reforms in the country. The government aims to catapult India to among the top 10 countries in World Bank's ease of doing business rankings with the comprehensive labour reforms. As per the 'Doing Business' 2020 report, India had jumped 14 places to the 63rd position in the ease of doing business rankings. India has improved its rank by 79 positions in five years (2014-19). The higher ranking would boost investment and job creation in the country. Commenting on labour reforms K E Raghunathan, Convenor of CIA (Consortium of Indian Association), said, "The COVID-19 situation has made both the life of employer and employee difficult. If the government statistics say over 21 million Job loss during April to August then the figure of employers who lost enterprises is yet to be ascertained. We estimate them to be around 30 per cent of over 65 million enterprises." He further stated, "Under these circumstances, these new (labour) codes are bound to make new enterprises investor friendly, increase ease of doing business and make it attractive to invite foreign entities which want to come out of China."

Government looking to implement all four labour codes in one go by December: Gangwar

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) arrested suspected Al-Qaeda terrorist Shamim Ansari from Jalangi in Murshidabad district of West Bengal on Saturday.

This is the tenth such arrest within a week in connection with the ongoing investigation to uncover the Al-Qaeda network existing in West Bengal and other states.

On September 19, NIA arrested nine suspected Al-Qaeda terrorists - six from Bengal’s Murshidabad district and three from Kerala’s Ernakulam district.

The statement released by NIA revealed that the operatives were planning to attack vital installations in India and aiming to kill innocent people. “The group was planning to undertake terrorist attacks at vital installations in India with an aim to kill innocent people and strike terror in their minds. Accordingly, NIA registered a case No. RC-31/2020/NIA/DLI on 11.09.2020, and initiated investigation,” read the statement.

Large quantity of incriminating materials including digital devices, documents, jihadi literature, sharp weapons, country-made firearms, a locally fabricated body armour, articles and literature used for making home-made explosive devices have been seized from their possession according to the officials of NIA.

According to the preliminary investigation conducted by NIA, these individuals were radicalised by Pakistan-based Al-Qaeda terrorists on social media and were motivated to undertake attacks at multiple places including the National Capital Region.

Those arrested from Kerala have been identified as - Murshid Hasan, Iyakub Biswas and Mosaraf Hossen.

The six arrested from Bengal have been identified as - Najmus Sakib, Abu Sufiyan, Mainul Mondal, Leu Yean Ahmed, Al Mamun Kamal, Atitur Rehman.

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) arrested suspected Al-Qaeda terrorist Shamim Ansari from Jalangi in Murshidabad district of West Bengal on Saturday. This is the tenth such arrest within a week in connection with the ongoing investigation to uncover the Al-Qaeda network existing in West Bengal and other states.

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) arrested suspected Al-Qaeda terrorist Shamim Ansari from Jalangi in Murshidabad district of West Bengal on Saturday. This is the tenth such arrest within a week in connection with the ongoing investigation to uncover the Al-Qaeda network existing in West Bengal and other states. On September 19, NIA arrested nine suspected Al-Qaeda terrorists - six from Bengal’s Murshidabad district and three from Kerala’s Ernakulam district. The statement released by NIA revealed that the operatives were planning to attack vital installations in India and aiming to kill innocent people. “The group was planning to undertake terrorist attacks at vital installations in India with an aim to kill innocent people and strike terror in their minds. Accordingly, NIA registered a case No. RC-31/2020/NIA/DLI on 11.09.2020, and initiated investigation,” read the statement. Large quantity of incriminating materials including digital devices, documents, jihadi literature, sharp weapons, country-made firearms, a locally fabricated body armour, articles and literature used for making home-made explosive devices have been seized from their possession according to the officials of NIA. According to the preliminary investigation conducted by NIA, these individuals were radicalised by Pakistan-based Al-Qaeda terrorists on social media and were motivated to undertake attacks at multiple places including the National Capital Region. Those arrested from Kerala have been identified as - Murshid Hasan, Iyakub Biswas and Mosaraf Hossen. The six arrested from Bengal have been identified as - Najmus Sakib, Abu Sufiyan, Mainul Mondal, Leu Yean Ahmed, Al Mamun Kamal, Atitur Rehman.

NIA arrests 10th suspected Al-Qaeda terrorist from Bengal’s Murshidabad

India on Sunday reported 88,600 fresh cases in a day as the cases tally mounted to 59.9 lakhs. 1124 deaths were also recorded in the last 24 hours.

COVID case tally stands at 5,992,533 including 9,56,402 active cases, 49,41,628 cured/discharged/migrated &amp; 94,503 deaths, the Ministry of Health &amp; Family Welfare's latest update said.

According to Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), 7, 12, 57,836 samples tested up to 26th September for COVID-19. Of these, 9, 87,861 samples were tested yesterday.

(With inputs from agencies)

India on Sunday reported 88,600 fresh cases in a day as the cases tally mounted to 59.9 lakhs. 1124 deaths were also recorded in the last 24 hours. COVID case tally stands at 5,992,533 including 9,56,402 active cases, 49,41,628 cured/discharged/migrated & 94,503 deaths, the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare's latest update said.

India on Sunday reported 88,600 fresh cases in a day as the cases tally mounted to 59.9 lakhs. 1124 deaths were also recorded in the last 24 hours. COVID case tally stands at 5,992,533 including 9,56,402 active cases, 49,41,628 cured/discharged/migrated & 94,503 deaths, the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare's latest update said. According to Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), 7, 12, 57,836 samples tested up to 26th September for COVID-19. Of these, 9, 87,861 samples were tested yesterday. (With inputs from agencies)

India reports single day spike of 88,600 new cases as tally mounts to 59.9 lakhs

Former Union Minister Jaswant Singh passes away on Sunday morning. He was 82.

"Jaswant Singh Ji served our nation diligently, during Atal Ji’s Government, he handled crucial portfolios and left a strong mark in the worlds of finance, defence and external affairs. Saddened by his demise," tweeted PM Modi.

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Jaswant Singh Ji will be remembered for his unique perspective on matters of politics and society. He also contributed to the strengthening of the BJP. I will always remember our interactions. Condolences to his family and supporters. Om Shanti.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1310052947087093760?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 27, 2020</a></blockquote>
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He added, "Spoke to Shri Manvendra Singh and expressed condolences on the unfortunate demise of Shri Jaswant Singh Ji. True to his nature, Jaswant Ji fought his illness with immense courage for the last six years."

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Spoke to Shri Manvendra Singh and expressed condolences on the unfortunate demise of Shri Jaswant Singh Ji. 
 
True to his nature, Jaswant Ji fought his illness with immense courage for the last six years.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1310055474578952192?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 27, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Born on January 3, 1938, Jaswant Singh was a retired officer of the Indian Army. He was one of the founding members of the Bharatiya Janata Party. Jaswant Singh was also one of India's longest serving parliamentarians, having been a member of one or the other house almost continuously between 1980 and 2014. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Former Union Minister Jaswant Singh passes away on Sunday morning. He was 82. "Jaswant Singh Ji served our nation diligently, during Atal Ji’s Government, he handled crucial portfolios and left a strong mark in the worlds of finance, defence and external affairs.

Former Union Minister Jaswant Singh passes away on Sunday morning. He was 82. "Jaswant Singh Ji served our nation diligently, during Atal Ji’s Government, he handled crucial portfolios and left a strong mark in the worlds of finance, defence and external affairs. Saddened by his demise," tweeted PM Modi. Jaswant Singh Ji will be remembered for his unique perspective on matters of politics and society. He also contributed to the strengthening of the BJP. I will always remember our interactions. Condolences to his family and supporters. Om Shanti. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 27, 2020 × He added, "Spoke to Shri Manvendra Singh and expressed condolences on the unfortunate demise of Shri Jaswant Singh Ji. True to his nature, Jaswant Ji fought his illness with immense courage for the last six years." Spoke to Shri Manvendra Singh and expressed condolences on the unfortunate demise of Shri Jaswant Singh Ji. True to his nature, Jaswant Ji fought his illness with immense courage for the last six years. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 27, 2020 × Born on January 3, 1938, Jaswant Singh was a retired officer of the Indian Army. He was one of the founding members of the Bharatiya Janata Party. Jaswant Singh was also one of India's longest serving parliamentarians, having been a member of one or the other house almost continuously between 1980 and 2014. (With inputs from agencies)

Former defence minister Jaswant Singh passes away at 82

In its biggest military logistics operation in decades, the Indian Army has rushed tanks, heavy weaponry, ammunition, fuel, food and essential winter supplies to high-altitude areas in eastern Ladakh to maintain its combat readiness through the treacherous winter of around four months, military sources said on Sunday.

They said Chief of Army Staff Gen MM Naravane, aided by a group of top commanders, has been personally involved in planning and overseeing the implementation of the mammoth exercise that began in mid-July and is nearing completion.

A significant number of T-90 and T-72 tanks, artillery guns and infantry combat vehicles were flown into various sensitive areas including Chushul and Demchock sectors as part of the logistics operation, the sources said.

Under the operation, the Army transported large quantities of clothes, tents, food items, communication equipment, fuel, heaters and other supplies to army personnel deployed at forward posts and mountain passes at the height of over 16,000 feet.

"By far it is the biggest logistics operation that has been implemented in Ladakh post Independence. Its scale is humongous," a senior military official told PTI on the condition of anonymity.

To deal with any Chinese misadventure, India has deployed over three additional Army divisions in eastern Ladakh where the temperature fluctuates between minus five to minus 25 degrees Celsius from October to January.

The sources said India imported winter clothing and gear from a couple of countries in Europe and they have already been supplied to the troops in eastern Ladakh.

Almost all transport aircraft and helicopters of the Indian Air Force including C-130J Super Hercules and C-17 Globemaster were used to transport thousands of tonnes of food, fuel and other equipment to the region.

The Indian Army has decided to maintain its current strength of troops in all key areas in eastern Ladakh in the winter months as there was no sign of early resolution of the border row with China.

The Indian Air Force (IAF) has also decided to remain on high alert in the forward air bases along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).

The Indian and Chinese armies held the sixth round of Corps Commander talks on September 21 in the backdrop of deteriorating situation in the Chushul sector following three incidents of shots being fired in the air by the Chinese military since the intervening night of August 29 and 30.

Following the incidents, India had occupied at least 20 strategic heights around southern and northern banks of Pangong lake.

In the talks, the two sides agreed not to escalate the situation by announcing a series of measures. However, there was no breakthrough on the disengagement process.

The sources said a series of talks will be required for the disengagement process to begin with.

The situation in eastern Ladakh escalated manifold after 20 Indian soldiers were killed in a clash in Galwan Valley on June 15. The Chinese side acknowledged suffering casualties, but it is yet to divulge the details. According to an American intelligence report, the number of casualties on the Chinese side was 35.

The situation further deteriorated following at least three attempts by the soldiers of the PLA to "intimidate" Indian troops along the northern and southern bank of Pangong lake area in the last three weeks where even shots were fired in the air for the first time at the LAC in 45 years.

As the tensions escalated further, the foreign ministers of the two countries held talks on the sidelines of a Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) meet in Moscow on September 10 where they reached a five-point agreement to defuse the situation in eastern Ladakh.

The agreement was the basis for the sixth round of Corps Commander-level talks on Monday which was also attended for the first time by a joint secretary from the MEA.

The agreement aimed at ending the tense standoff included measures like quick disengagement of troops, avoiding action that could escalate tensions, adherence to all agreements and protocols on border management and steps to restore peace along the LAC.

In its biggest military logistics operation in decades, the Indian Army has rushed tanks, heavy weaponry, ammunition, fuel, food and essential winter supplies to high-altitude areas in eastern Ladakh to maintain its combat readiness through the treacherous winter of around four months, military sources said on Sunday.

In its biggest military logistics operation in decades, the Indian Army has rushed tanks, heavy weaponry, ammunition, fuel, food and essential winter supplies to high-altitude areas in eastern Ladakh to maintain its combat readiness through the treacherous winter of around four months, military sources said on Sunday. They said Chief of Army Staff Gen MM Naravane, aided by a group of top commanders, has been personally involved in planning and overseeing the implementation of the mammoth exercise that began in mid-July and is nearing completion. A significant number of T-90 and T-72 tanks, artillery guns and infantry combat vehicles were flown into various sensitive areas including Chushul and Demchock sectors as part of the logistics operation, the sources said. Under the operation, the Army transported large quantities of clothes, tents, food items, communication equipment, fuel, heaters and other supplies to army personnel deployed at forward posts and mountain passes at the height of over 16,000 feet. "By far it is the biggest logistics operation that has been implemented in Ladakh post Independence. Its scale is humongous," a senior military official told PTI on the condition of anonymity. To deal with any Chinese misadventure, India has deployed over three additional Army divisions in eastern Ladakh where the temperature fluctuates between minus five to minus 25 degrees Celsius from October to January. The sources said India imported winter clothing and gear from a couple of countries in Europe and they have already been supplied to the troops in eastern Ladakh. Almost all transport aircraft and helicopters of the Indian Air Force including C-130J Super Hercules and C-17 Globemaster were used to transport thousands of tonnes of food, fuel and other equipment to the region. The Indian Army has decided to maintain its current strength of troops in all key areas in eastern Ladakh in the winter months as there was no sign of early resolution of the border row with China. The Indian Air Force (IAF) has also decided to remain on high alert in the forward air bases along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). The Indian and Chinese armies held the sixth round of Corps Commander talks on September 21 in the backdrop of deteriorating situation in the Chushul sector following three incidents of shots being fired in the air by the Chinese military since the intervening night of August 29 and 30. Following the incidents, India had occupied at least 20 strategic heights around southern and northern banks of Pangong lake. In the talks, the two sides agreed not to escalate the situation by announcing a series of measures. However, there was no breakthrough on the disengagement process. The sources said a series of talks will be required for the disengagement process to begin with. The situation in eastern Ladakh escalated manifold after 20 Indian soldiers were killed in a clash in Galwan Valley on June 15. The Chinese side acknowledged suffering casualties, but it is yet to divulge the details. According to an American intelligence report, the number of casualties on the Chinese side was 35. The situation further deteriorated following at least three attempts by the soldiers of the PLA to "intimidate" Indian troops along the northern and southern bank of Pangong lake area in the last three weeks where even shots were fired in the air for the first time at the LAC in 45 years. As the tensions escalated further, the foreign ministers of the two countries held talks on the sidelines of a Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) meet in Moscow on September 10 where they reached a five-point agreement to defuse the situation in eastern Ladakh. The agreement was the basis for the sixth round of Corps Commander-level talks on Monday which was also attended for the first time by a joint secretary from the MEA. The agreement aimed at ending the tense standoff included measures like quick disengagement of troops, avoiding action that could escalate tensions, adherence to all agreements and protocols on border management and steps to restore peace along the LAC.

Army gears up for winter in eastern Ladakh; biggest operation in decades to stock supplies

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has pledged that by 2022 every poor person in the country will have a roof over their head.

"Now our Prime Minister has pledged that by 2022, when the country will be celebrating the 75th anniversary of independence, then every poor person in the country will have a roof over their head. The country had to wait so long for this economic planning. Whereas Deendayalji was saying the same thing in the 1960s," Rajnath Singh tweeted.

"Today, in the Deendayal Smriti Lecture, I spoke on the topic of ''Sankalp Bharat Ka Sankalp''. The relevance of the national goals that Deendayalji had set after attaining independence has not diminished from any point of view. Those goals are important in fulfilling the resolve of self-reliant India," he tweeted.

Deendayal Upadhyaya had said that there should be a system that protects political freedom, Rajnath Singh added.

"For this, an ordinary Indian can also get a chance to live a life of honor. Prime Minister Modi has started many schemes, due to which the poor of the country have an account in the bank, have gas facility in their homes, electricity facility in the villages, road facilities, now internet facility is being provided," Rajnath Singh tweeted.

In a country where half of the population are farmers, agriculture was neglected for such a long time that farming became a profitable business. Due to vested interests, agriculture and farmers of this country have never been given the land where the farmers of this country can also get the full fruits of their hard work, the Defence Minister stated.

Now, PM Modi has taken some such steps which will help the farmers of this country to get a better price for their produce, he added.

"In the last session of Parliament (monsoon session), two agricultural bills have been passed, through which farmers have got freedom to sell their produce in the true sense," Rajnath Singh wrote.

"Our commitment for the welfare of the farmers of India dates back to the days of Deendayal Upadhyay. No one can deter us from this path. For the first time after independence, Atalji had made the country''s village, poor and farmer the centre of his policies. Now Modiji is working on the same path and in a big way," he added.

"Recently, I released a negative list of 101 defense equipments, through which this policy was decided, that all these equipments and platforms will no longer be imported in India. Only one decision has led to manufacturing opportunities of ₹ 52,000 crore in a year," Rajnath Singh tweeted.

The Defence Minister further stated that the second major policy announcement in the defense sector is the approval of FDI up to 74 per cent in the field of defense. This has made the path of ''Make in India'' easier for foreign defense companies as well. Soon we are also going to introduce new Defense Production and Procurement Policy.

"Self-reliance is very important in the field of defense. A country that depends on imports for its defense equipment will never be strong and self-respecting. Therefore, being self-sufficient in the defense sector is linked to the ''self-respect'' and ''sovereignty'' of our country," Rajnath Singh tweeted. "Today at the UNGA meeting, Prime Minister has kept the points of people of India with full clarity and strength. Today, the whole world has heard and appreciated his message as the lofty voice of self-respecting India. I heartily congratulate him for his effective address," he added.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has pledged that by 2022 every poor person in the country will have a roof over their head.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has pledged that by 2022 every poor person in the country will have a roof over their head. "Now our Prime Minister has pledged that by 2022, when the country will be celebrating the 75th anniversary of independence, then every poor person in the country will have a roof over their head. The country had to wait so long for this economic planning. Whereas Deendayalji was saying the same thing in the 1960s," Rajnath Singh tweeted. "Today, in the Deendayal Smriti Lecture, I spoke on the topic of ''Sankalp Bharat Ka Sankalp''. The relevance of the national goals that Deendayalji had set after attaining independence has not diminished from any point of view. Those goals are important in fulfilling the resolve of self-reliant India," he tweeted. Deendayal Upadhyaya had said that there should be a system that protects political freedom, Rajnath Singh added. "For this, an ordinary Indian can also get a chance to live a life of honor. Prime Minister Modi has started many schemes, due to which the poor of the country have an account in the bank, have gas facility in their homes, electricity facility in the villages, road facilities, now internet facility is being provided," Rajnath Singh tweeted. In a country where half of the population are farmers, agriculture was neglected for such a long time that farming became a profitable business. Due to vested interests, agriculture and farmers of this country have never been given the land where the farmers of this country can also get the full fruits of their hard work, the Defence Minister stated. Now, PM Modi has taken some such steps which will help the farmers of this country to get a better price for their produce, he added. "In the last session of Parliament (monsoon session), two agricultural bills have been passed, through which farmers have got freedom to sell their produce in the true sense," Rajnath Singh wrote. "Our commitment for the welfare of the farmers of India dates back to the days of Deendayal Upadhyay. No one can deter us from this path. For the first time after independence, Atalji had made the country''s village, poor and farmer the centre of his policies. Now Modiji is working on the same path and in a big way," he added. "Recently, I released a negative list of 101 defense equipments, through which this policy was decided, that all these equipments and platforms will no longer be imported in India. Only one decision has led to manufacturing opportunities of ₹ 52,000 crore in a year," Rajnath Singh tweeted. The Defence Minister further stated that the second major policy announcement in the defense sector is the approval of FDI up to 74 per cent in the field of defense. This has made the path of ''Make in India'' easier for foreign defense companies as well. Soon we are also going to introduce new Defense Production and Procurement Policy. "Self-reliance is very important in the field of defense. A country that depends on imports for its defense equipment will never be strong and self-respecting. Therefore, being self-sufficient in the defense sector is linked to the ''self-respect'' and ''sovereignty'' of our country," Rajnath Singh tweeted. "Today at the UNGA meeting, Prime Minister has kept the points of people of India with full clarity and strength. Today, the whole world has heard and appreciated his message as the lofty voice of self-respecting India. I heartily congratulate him for his effective address," he added.

PM Modi pledged every poor person will have a house by 2022: Rajnath Singh

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday wrote to his Bangladesh counterpart, Sheikh Hasina, on her birthday while Indian envoy Riva Ganguly Das personally handed her a rare footage of her father Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman's 1972 India visit.

Immediately after his country's independence in 1971 from Pakistan after a bloody war, Bangladesh's father of the nation Sheikh Mujibur Rahman visited India in March of 1972 and during the visit, Indo Bangla treaty of friendship, cooperation and peace was signed.

Meanwhile, PM Modi in his letter lauded PM Hasina's policies, saying, "Please accept my warm wishes and hearty congratulations on your birthday."

"Your visionary leadership has helped Bangladesh achieve immense social and economic transformation and equally your contribution to our bilateral relations has been extremely impressive," he added.

Ties between the two countries have seen fast-paced and positive developments in last few years -- as the two leaders have termed the phase of friendship as "shonali adhyay" or "Golden Age".

India-Bangladesh Joint Consultative Commission will virtually meet on Tuesday with Bangladesh represented by its foreign minister A K Abdul Momen and India by External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday wrote to his Bangladesh counterpart, Sheikh Hasina, on her birthday while Indian envoy Riva Ganguly Das personally handed her a rare footage of her father Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman's 1972 India visit.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday wrote to his Bangladesh counterpart, Sheikh Hasina, on her birthday while Indian envoy Riva Ganguly Das personally handed her a rare footage of her father Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman's 1972 India visit. Immediately after his country's independence in 1971 from Pakistan after a bloody war, Bangladesh's father of the nation Sheikh Mujibur Rahman visited India in March of 1972 and during the visit, Indo Bangla treaty of friendship, cooperation and peace was signed. Meanwhile, PM Modi in his letter lauded PM Hasina's policies, saying, "Please accept my warm wishes and hearty congratulations on your birthday." "Your visionary leadership has helped Bangladesh achieve immense social and economic transformation and equally your contribution to our bilateral relations has been extremely impressive," he added. Ties between the two countries have seen fast-paced and positive developments in last few years -- as the two leaders have termed the phase of friendship as "shonali adhyay" or "Golden Age". India-Bangladesh Joint Consultative Commission will virtually meet on Tuesday with Bangladesh represented by its foreign minister A K Abdul Momen and India by External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar.

India's birthday gift to Bangladesh PM: Rare footage of father's 1972 India visit

India’s president Ram Nath Kovind on Sunday approved three controversial farm bills that the parliament had recently cleared.

One of the three bills has triggered nationwide protests by farmers, who say the legislation will pave the way for the government to stop buying grain at guaranteed prices and leave them at the mercy of big private buyers.

Thousands of farmers in India blocked roads and railway tracks on Friday in a protest against the new legislation.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-new-farm-bills-whats-good-what-may-not-be-330262">Also read |&nbsp;India's new farm bills: What's good, what may not be</a>

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government has defended the bills as reforms to help India’s vast agriculture sector get rid of antiquated laws and allow farmers to sell to institutional buyers and big retailers such as Walmart.

The government insists the new rules will give farmers the option to sell their produce to private buyers while it would still purchase staples such as rice and wheat at guaranteed prices.

The protests have remained peaceful but most growers, who hit the streets in large numbers, did not wear face masks despite a daily surge in coronavirus cases in India.

(with inputs from agencies)

India’s president Ram Nath Kovind on Sunday approved three controversial farm bills that the parliament had recently cleared. One of the three bills has triggered nationwide protests by farmers, who say the legislation will pave the way for the government to stop buying grain at guaranteed prices and leave them at the mercy of big private buyers.

India’s president Ram Nath Kovind on Sunday approved three controversial farm bills that the parliament had recently cleared. One of the three bills has triggered nationwide protests by farmers, who say the legislation will pave the way for the government to stop buying grain at guaranteed prices and leave them at the mercy of big private buyers. Thousands of farmers in India blocked roads and railway tracks on Friday in a protest against the new legislation. Also read | India's new farm bills: What's good, what may not be Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government has defended the bills as reforms to help India’s vast agriculture sector get rid of antiquated laws and allow farmers to sell to institutional buyers and big retailers such as Walmart. The government insists the new rules will give farmers the option to sell their produce to private buyers while it would still purchase staples such as rice and wheat at guaranteed prices. The protests have remained peaceful but most growers, who hit the streets in large numbers, did not wear face masks despite a daily surge in coronavirus cases in India. (with inputs from agencies)

India's president approves three controversial farm bills

Prime Minister Narendra Modi today addressed the 69th edition of his monthly radio programme Mann Ki Baat.

Indian PM Narendra Modi addressed the 69th edition of 'Mann Ki Baat'

Navies of India and Japan on Sunday began a three-day anti-submarine warfare exercise in the Indian Ocean region to deepen their operational coordination in the strategically important sea lanes around the two countries.

4th edition of Jimex-2020 underway: India-Japan extensive maritime operations day 1

The first tram in the world to have a library is now open in Kolkata. Passing through College Street also known as ‘boipara’ or “the area of books”, the single coach AC tram will run regularly between Esplanade and Shyambazar.

Kolkata gets world's first tram library

Senior SAD leader Harsimrat Kaur Badal on Saturday said the BJP-led NDA government at the centre turned a blind eye to Punjab and is not the alliance that was envisioned by former prime minister late Atal Bihari Vajpayee.

Harsimrat Kaur Badal, who recently resigned from the Union Cabinet in protest against the farm bills made these remarks after her husband and SAD president Sukhbir Badal announced that the party was pulling out of the BJP-led NDA alliance.

"If pain and protests of three crore Punjabis fail to melt the rigid stance of the Centre, it is no longer the NDA envisioned by Vajpayee ji and Badal sahab," she tweeted.

"An alliance that turns a deaf ear to its oldest ally and a blind eye to the pleas of those who feed the nation is no longer in the interest of Punjab," she said.

The SAD's alliance began with BJP's precursor Jan Sangh in 1967, and thereafter both parties have contested most of the elections together.

Senior SAD leader Harsimrat Kaur Badal on Saturday said the BJP-led NDA government at the centre turned a blind eye to Punjab and is not the alliance that was envisioned by former prime minister late Atal Bihari Vajpayee.

Senior SAD leader Harsimrat Kaur Badal on Saturday said the BJP-led NDA government at the centre turned a blind eye to Punjab and is not the alliance that was envisioned by former prime minister late Atal Bihari Vajpayee. Harsimrat Kaur Badal, who recently resigned from the Union Cabinet in protest against the farm bills made these remarks after her husband and SAD president Sukhbir Badal announced that the party was pulling out of the BJP-led NDA alliance. "If pain and protests of three crore Punjabis fail to melt the rigid stance of the Centre, it is no longer the NDA envisioned by Vajpayee ji and Badal sahab," she tweeted. "An alliance that turns a deaf ear to its oldest ally and a blind eye to the pleas of those who feed the nation is no longer in the interest of Punjab," she said. The SAD's alliance began with BJP's precursor Jan Sangh in 1967, and thereafter both parties have contested most of the elections together.

BJP-led NDA turned blind eye to Punjab, it's not the alliance envisioned by Vajpayee: Harsimrat Kaur

MSV Krishna Sudama had sailed from Mundra on Saturday morning (September 26) and was proceeding to Djibouti, carrying 905 ton cargo consisting of rice and sugar.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will have a virtual bilateral summit with Denmark's Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen on Monday. This is his first standalone virtual meet with any European leader.

A ministry of external affairs releases announcing the summit said,"India- Denmark bilateral relations are marked by regular high-level exchanges and are based on historical links, common democratic traditions and shared desire for regional, as well as international peace and stability."

All in all, this is the 4th Virtual Summit of PM Modi with any global Leader amidst COVID crisis. So far, he has had virtual meet with leaders of Australia, EU &amp; Sri Lanka.&nbsp;

Two key outcomes of the India Denmark virtual meet will be-- the signing of MoU in the field of intellectual property cooperation between the 2 countries &amp; Denmark joining of International Solar Alliance (ISA).

The MEA release said,"The Virtual Bilateral Summit will give an opportunity to the two leaders to comprehensively review the broad framework of the bilateral relationship in the context of the time-tested friendly ties between the two countries and give broad political direction for a strengthened and deepened collaborative partnership on key issues of mutual interest."

Bilateral trade in goods and services between India and Denmark has grown by 30.49%, from US$ 2.82 billion in 2016 to US$ 3.68 billion in 2019. Around 200 Danish companies have invested in India while 25 Indian companies are present in Denmark in IT, renewable energy and engineering.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will have a virtual bilateral summit with Denmark's Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen on Monday. This is his first standalone virtual meet with any European leader.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will have a virtual bilateral summit with Denmark's Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen on Monday. This is his first standalone virtual meet with any European leader. A ministry of external affairs releases announcing the summit said,"India- Denmark bilateral relations are marked by regular high-level exchanges and are based on historical links, common democratic traditions and shared desire for regional, as well as international peace and stability." All in all, this is the 4th Virtual Summit of PM Modi with any global Leader amidst COVID crisis. So far, he has had virtual meet with leaders of Australia, EU & Sri Lanka. Two key outcomes of the India Denmark virtual meet will be-- the signing of MoU in the field of intellectual property cooperation between the 2 countries & Denmark joining of International Solar Alliance (ISA). The MEA release said,"The Virtual Bilateral Summit will give an opportunity to the two leaders to comprehensively review the broad framework of the bilateral relationship in the context of the time-tested friendly ties between the two countries and give broad political direction for a strengthened and deepened collaborative partnership on key issues of mutual interest." Bilateral trade in goods and services between India and Denmark has grown by 30.49%, from US$ 2.82 billion in 2016 to US$ 3.68 billion in 2019. Around 200 Danish companies have invested in India while 25 Indian companies are present in Denmark in IT, renewable energy and engineering.

PM Narendra Modi to hold virtual bilateral summit with Denmark PM on September 28

Bhutan's Prime minister Lotay Tshering has supported G4 countries bid for United Nations Security Council reforms and a seat at the high table. G4 grouping, that has been calling for UNSC reforms includes India, Germany, Brazil and Japan.

Bhutan's PM in his speech at the United Nations General Assembly said, "Bhutan has also long supported the aspirations of the G4 to serve as Permanent Members to an expanded Security Council, of course, with Africa also appropriately represented."

Earlier this week foreign ministers of G4 countries met and called for urgent reforms "to better reflect contemporary realities".

Bhutan PM also spoke on the COVID-19 crisis and how his country has dealt with the crisis.&nbsp;

Lotay said: "Under direct supervision of our King, we have meticulous surveillance systems in place" which he said includes "close monitoring of our international entry points and timely institution of 21 days quarantine, which is mandatory for everyone entering Bhutan and fully sponsored by the government" &amp; "reliable and free testing facilities are also set up across the country."

Bhutan reported 261 positive COVID-19 cases, of which 192 have recovered. The mortality from COVID-19 remains zero in the country.

Bhutan believes in the concept Gross National Happiness(GNH) highlighted the issue of climate change with PM Lotay saying, "As a key component of GNH, our visionary monarchs emphasised on protection and preservation of our environment. We have the Constitutional mandate to ensure 60 per cent forest cover at all times and to maintain ‘inter-generational equity’ of our natural resources."

"So today, when the world is dealing with issues of climate change, we are grateful for the wise decisions that kept Bhutan carbon negative," Lotay added.

Bhutan's Prime minister Lotay Tshering has supported G4 countries bid for United Nations Security Council reforms and a seat at the high table. G4 grouping, that has been calling for UNSC reforms includes India, Germany, Brazil and Japan.

Bhutan's Prime minister Lotay Tshering has supported G4 countries bid for United Nations Security Council reforms and a seat at the high table. G4 grouping, that has been calling for UNSC reforms includes India, Germany, Brazil and Japan. Bhutan's PM in his speech at the United Nations General Assembly said, "Bhutan has also long supported the aspirations of the G4 to serve as Permanent Members to an expanded Security Council, of course, with Africa also appropriately represented." Earlier this week foreign ministers of G4 countries met and called for urgent reforms "to better reflect contemporary realities". Bhutan PM also spoke on the COVID-19 crisis and how his country has dealt with the crisis. Lotay said: "Under direct supervision of our King, we have meticulous surveillance systems in place" which he said includes "close monitoring of our international entry points and timely institution of 21 days quarantine, which is mandatory for everyone entering Bhutan and fully sponsored by the government" & "reliable and free testing facilities are also set up across the country." Bhutan reported 261 positive COVID-19 cases, of which 192 have recovered. The mortality from COVID-19 remains zero in the country. Bhutan believes in the concept Gross National Happiness(GNH) highlighted the issue of climate change with PM Lotay saying, "As a key component of GNH, our visionary monarchs emphasised on protection and preservation of our environment. We have the Constitutional mandate to ensure 60 per cent forest cover at all times and to maintain ‘inter-generational equity’ of our natural resources." "So today, when the world is dealing with issues of climate change, we are grateful for the wise decisions that kept Bhutan carbon negative," Lotay added.

Bhutan supports G4's bid for UNSC reforms

India recorded 85,362 new <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-reports-86052-new-cases-as-total-infections-near-6-million-mark-330100">coronavirus</a> cases in the last 24 including 1,089 deaths as the country continues to grapple with the virus.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-hospitals-have-enough-oxygen-for-6-7-days-satyendar-jain-329652">Also Read:&nbsp;Delhi hospitals have enough oxygen for 6-7 days: Satyendar Jain</a>

The total number of COVID-19 cases in the country has now risen to 59,03,933 including 9,60,969 active cases, the health ministry said in a statement. The death toll due to the virus has risen to 93,379.

Meanwhile, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) said that 7,02,69,975 coronavirus samples were tested till September 25 and 13,41,535 virus samples were tested on Friday.

Karnataka reported 8,655 new coronavirus cases including 86 deaths in the last 24 hours with the total number of cases rising to 5,57,212 including 98,474 active cases. The death toll due to the virus in the state has risen to 8,417.

West Bengal reported 3,190 new <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-reports-86508-new-coronavirus-cases-infections-rise-to-over-57-million-329847">coronavirus </a>cases with 59 deaths in the last 24 hours with the total number of COVID-19 cases in the state rising to 2,41,059 with active cases rising to 25,374.

There have been 4,665 deaths due to the virus in West Bengal, the state health department said.

In Andaman and Nicobar islands, 15 new coronavirus cases were reported taking the total number of cases to 3,759 with &nbsp;179 active cases. There have been 52 fatalities due to the virus in the islands.

In Ladakh, 56 new COVID-19 cases and two deaths were reported on Friday.

India recorded 85,362 new coronavirus cases in the last 24 including 1,089 deaths as the country continues to grapple with the virus. Also Read: Delhi hospitals have enough oxygen for 6-7 days: Satyendar Jain The total number of COVID-19 cases in the country has now risen to 59,03,933 including 9,60,969 active cases, the health ministry said in a statement.

India recorded 85,362 new coronavirus cases in the last 24 including 1,089 deaths as the country continues to grapple with the virus. Also Read: Delhi hospitals have enough oxygen for 6-7 days: Satyendar Jain The total number of COVID-19 cases in the country has now risen to 59,03,933 including 9,60,969 active cases, the health ministry said in a statement. The death toll due to the virus has risen to 93,379. Meanwhile, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) said that 7,02,69,975 coronavirus samples were tested till September 25 and 13,41,535 virus samples were tested on Friday. Karnataka reported 8,655 new coronavirus cases including 86 deaths in the last 24 hours with the total number of cases rising to 5,57,212 including 98,474 active cases. The death toll due to the virus in the state has risen to 8,417. West Bengal reported 3,190 new coronavirus cases with 59 deaths in the last 24 hours with the total number of COVID-19 cases in the state rising to 2,41,059 with active cases rising to 25,374. There have been 4,665 deaths due to the virus in West Bengal, the state health department said. In Andaman and Nicobar islands, 15 new coronavirus cases were reported taking the total number of cases to 3,759 with 179 active cases. There have been 52 fatalities due to the virus in the islands. In Ladakh, 56 new COVID-19 cases and two deaths were reported on Friday.

India reports over 85,000 coronavirus cases in 24 hours; infections rise over 5.9 million nationwide

The navies of India and Japan on Saturday carried out a range of complex drills in the North Arabian Sea on the first day of their three-day military exercise aimed at further bolstering operational convergence, officials said.

It is the first military exercise between the two strategic partners after they signed a landmark agreement on September 9 that allows their militaries to access each other's bases for logistics support.

The fourth edition of the India-Japan maritime exercise, JIMEX, is taking place in the backdrop of growing concerns over China's military assertiveness in the Indian Ocean Region and Indo-Pacific.

The JIMEX series of exercises commenced in January 2012 with a special focus on maritime security cooperation. The last edition was conducted in October 2018 off the 
Visakhapatnam coast.

Indigenously-built stealth destroyer Chennai, Teg Class stealth frigate Tarkash and fleet tanker Deepak represented the Indian Navy in the exercise, an Indian Navy spokesperson said.

The Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force was represented by ships Kaga, an Izumo class helicopter destroyer and Ikazuchi, a guided-missile destroyer, he said.

In addition to ships, a fleet of long-range maritime patrol aircraft, helicopters and fighter aircraft are also participating in the exercise.

This week, the Indian and Australian navies too carried out a two-day mega exercise in the Indian Ocean Region that featured a range of complex naval manoeuvres, anti-aircraft drills and helicopter operations.

In July, the Indian Navy carried out a military exercise with a US Navy carrier strike group led by the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Nimitz off the coast of Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The USS Nimitz is the world's largest warship.

In the exercise with the US Navy, four frontline warships of the Indian Navy participated.&nbsp; 
The US carrier strike group was transiting through the Indian Ocean Region on its way from the South China Sea.

The Indian Navy carried out a similar exercise with the Japanese navy in June.

India has significantly expanded its deployment in the Indian Ocean Region with a plethora of warships and submarines following the border row to send across a message to Beijing.

The maritime space around the Malacca Strait is very critical for China's supply chain through sea routes.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The navies of India and Japan on Saturday carried out a range of complex drills in the North Arabian Sea on the first day of their three-day military exercise aimed at further bolstering operational convergence, officials said.

The navies of India and Japan on Saturday carried out a range of complex drills in the North Arabian Sea on the first day of their three-day military exercise aimed at further bolstering operational convergence, officials said. It is the first military exercise between the two strategic partners after they signed a landmark agreement on September 9 that allows their militaries to access each other's bases for logistics support. The fourth edition of the India-Japan maritime exercise, JIMEX, is taking place in the backdrop of growing concerns over China's military assertiveness in the Indian Ocean Region and Indo-Pacific. The JIMEX series of exercises commenced in January 2012 with a special focus on maritime security cooperation. The last edition was conducted in October 2018 off the Visakhapatnam coast. Indigenously-built stealth destroyer Chennai, Teg Class stealth frigate Tarkash and fleet tanker Deepak represented the Indian Navy in the exercise, an Indian Navy spokesperson said. The Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force was represented by ships Kaga, an Izumo class helicopter destroyer and Ikazuchi, a guided-missile destroyer, he said. In addition to ships, a fleet of long-range maritime patrol aircraft, helicopters and fighter aircraft are also participating in the exercise. This week, the Indian and Australian navies too carried out a two-day mega exercise in the Indian Ocean Region that featured a range of complex naval manoeuvres, anti-aircraft drills and helicopter operations. In July, the Indian Navy carried out a military exercise with a US Navy carrier strike group led by the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Nimitz off the coast of Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The USS Nimitz is the world's largest warship. In the exercise with the US Navy, four frontline warships of the Indian Navy participated. The US carrier strike group was transiting through the Indian Ocean Region on its way from the South China Sea. The Indian Navy carried out a similar exercise with the Japanese navy in June. India has significantly expanded its deployment in the Indian Ocean Region with a plethora of warships and submarines following the border row to send across a message to Beijing. The maritime space around the Malacca Strait is very critical for China's supply chain through sea routes.

Indian and Japanese navies kick-start three-day mega exercise

The&nbsp;East India Company, which once owned India,&nbsp; in&nbsp;one of the great ironies of history,&nbsp;is now owned by an Indian&nbsp;entrepreneur named&nbsp;Sanjiv Mehta.

The company was founded in 1600 to&nbsp;import spices, tea and exotic items to Europe from India.

After the 1857 revolt, the East India Company was disbanded after its soldiers rose in rebellion against the British

For years the company remained dormant, stuck in memories and history books.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/china-has-grabbed-more-land-than-the-east-india-company-ex-maldives-president-nasheed-32690">China has grabbed more land than the East India Company: ex-Maldives president Nasheed</a>

In India, the historic East India Company is a symbol of oppression and humiliation.

In 2003, a group of shareholders who owned the East India Company were attempting to revive it as a business selling tea and coffee.&nbsp;

Indian entrepreneur Sanjiv Mehta procured the company name in&nbsp;2005&nbsp;and transmuted it into a customer brand focused on luxury teas, coffees, and food.

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“A company which once owned India is now owned by an Indian ... a feeling of the empire striking back,” says&nbsp;Mehta, who opened his first store in 2010 in London’s affluent Mayfair area.

“The historic East India Company built itself on aggression, but today’s East India Company is about compassion,” he says.&nbsp;

On September 8, Sanjiv Mehta has earned the permit to trade under the cost of arms and seal of the notable company. He additionally has the options to mint coins, including a Mohur gold coin that was last minted in 1918 in British India.

Purchasing the shares meant emotional closure for Mehta, who as an Indian is acquainted with the historical backdrop of the company's forceful trade policies and misuse of the Indian subcontinent.

The East India Company, which once owned India, in one of the great ironies of history, is now owned by an Indian entrepreneur named Sanjiv Mehta. The company was founded in 1600 to import spices, tea and exotic items to Europe from India.

The East India Company, which once owned India, in one of the great ironies of history, is now owned by an Indian entrepreneur named Sanjiv Mehta. The company was founded in 1600 to import spices, tea and exotic items to Europe from India. After the 1857 revolt, the East India Company was disbanded after its soldiers rose in rebellion against the British For years the company remained dormant, stuck in memories and history books. Also read: China has grabbed more land than the East India Company: ex-Maldives president Nasheed In India, the historic East India Company is a symbol of oppression and humiliation. In 2003, a group of shareholders who owned the East India Company were attempting to revive it as a business selling tea and coffee. Indian entrepreneur Sanjiv Mehta procured the company name in 2005 and transmuted it into a customer brand focused on luxury teas, coffees, and food. × “A company which once owned India is now owned by an Indian ... a feeling of the empire striking back,” says Mehta, who opened his first store in 2010 in London’s affluent Mayfair area. “The historic East India Company built itself on aggression, but today’s East India Company is about compassion,” he says. On September 8, Sanjiv Mehta has earned the permit to trade under the cost of arms and seal of the notable company. He additionally has the options to mint coins, including a Mohur gold coin that was last minted in 1918 in British India. Purchasing the shares meant emotional closure for Mehta, who as an Indian is acquainted with the historical backdrop of the company's forceful trade policies and misuse of the Indian subcontinent.

Now, East India Company is owned by an Indian entrepreneur

The UN General Assembly this year is largely being held online due to the coronavirus pandemic. Majority of world leaders have been delivering pre-recorded speeches at the summit in New York.

PM Modi's global push for counter-terrorism at UNGA; Listen to him | PM Modi at UNGA

Prime Minister Narendra Modi while addressing the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on Saturday pushed for the reforms in the global body.

PM Modi's Address At UNGA, Says Reform In UN Need Of Hour

India on Saturday announced a $15 million grant to Sri Lanka, in a major push strengthen Buddhist cultural link between New Delhi and Colombo. The development is the key outcome of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Sri Lankan PM Mahinda Rajapakse's over-an-hour long virtual meet.

The joint secretary of Indian ocean region in the Ministry of External Affairs, Amit Narang, to this end said, "​Testifying to the long-standing civilisational links and cultural heritage, Prime Minister Modi announced grant assistance of US$15 million for the promotion of Buddhist ties between the two countries. The grant will assist in deepening people-to-people linkages between the two countries in the sphere of Buddhism."

The grant will be used for constructions and renovation of Buddhist cultural sites in the Indian ocean country, archaeological cooperation, the reciprocal study of Lord Buddha’s relics, strengthening of Buddhist scholarship, and supporting the clergy.

India will also facilitate the visit of a delegation of Buddhist pilgrims from Sri Lanka in the first inaugural flight to Kushinagar. Recently, in a bid to promote Buddhist tourism, Kushinagar airport was designated as an international airport. Kushinagar in Uttar Pradesh is the place where it is believed that Buddha attained Parinirvana or death after achieving Nirvana.

India is already engaged in a number of cultural projects in the country including the building of the Jaffna Cultural Centre. In fact, during the virtual summit, PM Mahinda extended an invitation to Prime Minister Modi to inaugurate the project.

India on Saturday announced a $15 million grant to Sri Lanka, in a major push strengthen Buddhist cultural link between New Delhi and Colombo. The development is the key outcome of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Sri Lankan PM Mahinda Rajapakse's over-an-hour long virtual meet.

India on Saturday announced a $15 million grant to Sri Lanka, in a major push strengthen Buddhist cultural link between New Delhi and Colombo. The development is the key outcome of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Sri Lankan PM Mahinda Rajapakse's over-an-hour long virtual meet. The joint secretary of Indian ocean region in the Ministry of External Affairs, Amit Narang, to this end said, "Testifying to the long-standing civilisational links and cultural heritage, Prime Minister Modi announced grant assistance of US$15 million for the promotion of Buddhist ties between the two countries. The grant will assist in deepening people-to-people linkages between the two countries in the sphere of Buddhism." The grant will be used for constructions and renovation of Buddhist cultural sites in the Indian ocean country, archaeological cooperation, the reciprocal study of Lord Buddha’s relics, strengthening of Buddhist scholarship, and supporting the clergy. India will also facilitate the visit of a delegation of Buddhist pilgrims from Sri Lanka in the first inaugural flight to Kushinagar. Recently, in a bid to promote Buddhist tourism, Kushinagar airport was designated as an international airport. Kushinagar in Uttar Pradesh is the place where it is believed that Buddha attained Parinirvana or death after achieving Nirvana. India is already engaged in a number of cultural projects in the country including the building of the Jaffna Cultural Centre. In fact, during the virtual summit, PM Mahinda extended an invitation to Prime Minister Modi to inaugurate the project.

India announces $15M grant for Sri Lanka to strengthening Buddhist ties

In a strongly worded rebuttal, India slammed Pakistani Prime minister Imran Khan for his anti-India remarks in United Nations General Assembly(UNGA) speech, highlighting Islamabad's support for terror and religious persecution.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/funds-being-collected-by-proscribed-terror-outfits-in-name-of-charity-india-hits-out-at-pak-at-unhrc-330197">Also Read |&nbsp;Funds being collected by proscribed terror outfits in name of charity,&nbsp;India hits out at Pak</a>

Indian diplomat, Mijito Vinito snubbed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-diplomat-walks-out-of-unga-hall-as-pak-pm-mentions-kashmir-in-speech-330306">Imran Khan's</a> speech by walking out from UNGA hall.

India's diplomat at Indian mission to United Nations in New York, Vinito said during the right to reply: "This is the same country that provides pensions for dreaded and listed terrorists out of State funds" and the "same country that has the dubious distinction of hosting the largest number of terrorists proscribed by the United Nations".

He recalled how Imran Khan had referred to terrorist Osama Bin Laden as a “martyr” in the Pakistani Parliament in July and last year had admitted that his country has about 30,000-40,000 terrorists and have fought in Afghanistan and in the Indian Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/at-un-india-raises-the-issue-of-misuse-of-blasphemy-laws-by-pakistan-against-minorities-330293">Also Read:&nbsp;At UN, India raises the issue of misuse of blasphemy laws by Pakistan against minorities</a>

On religious persecution, the Indian diplomat said, "This is the country that has systematically cleansed its minorities including Hindus, Christians, Sikhs and others, through the abuse of its blasphemy laws and through forced religious conversions."

"The only crowning glory that this country has to show to the world for the last 70 years is terrorism, ethnic cleansing, majoritarian fundamentalism, and clandestine nuclear trade," he said.

Reminding Pakistan that Jammu and Kashmir is an "integral and inalienable part of India", he said, "What should rather be on the agenda of the UN is Pakistan’s deep state and its unrelenting political and financial support to terrorist organizations and mercenaries which are a threat to global peace and security."&nbsp;

Earlier, Indian envoy to UN, T. S. Tirumurti strongly reacted to Khan's speech tweeting that it is "a new diplomatic low". Indian PM Narendra Modi will address the UNGA later today at 6:30 pm.

In a strongly worded rebuttal, India slammed Pakistani Prime minister Imran Khan for his anti-India remarks in United Nations General Assembly(UNGA) speech, highlighting Islamabad's support for terror and religious persecution.

In a strongly worded rebuttal, India slammed Pakistani Prime minister Imran Khan for his anti-India remarks in United Nations General Assembly(UNGA) speech, highlighting Islamabad's support for terror and religious persecution. Also Read | Funds being collected by proscribed terror outfits in name of charity, India hits out at Pak Indian diplomat, Mijito Vinito snubbed Imran Khan's speech by walking out from UNGA hall. India's diplomat at Indian mission to United Nations in New York, Vinito said during the right to reply: "This is the same country that provides pensions for dreaded and listed terrorists out of State funds" and the "same country that has the dubious distinction of hosting the largest number of terrorists proscribed by the United Nations". He recalled how Imran Khan had referred to terrorist Osama Bin Laden as a “martyr” in the Pakistani Parliament in July and last year had admitted that his country has about 30,000-40,000 terrorists and have fought in Afghanistan and in the Indian Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir. Also Read: At UN, India raises the issue of misuse of blasphemy laws by Pakistan against minorities On religious persecution, the Indian diplomat said, "This is the country that has systematically cleansed its minorities including Hindus, Christians, Sikhs and others, through the abuse of its blasphemy laws and through forced religious conversions." "The only crowning glory that this country has to show to the world for the last 70 years is terrorism, ethnic cleansing, majoritarian fundamentalism, and clandestine nuclear trade," he said. Reminding Pakistan that Jammu and Kashmir is an "integral and inalienable part of India", he said, "What should rather be on the agenda of the UN is Pakistan’s deep state and its unrelenting political and financial support to terrorist organizations and mercenaries which are a threat to global peace and security." Earlier, Indian envoy to UN, T. S. Tirumurti strongly reacted to Khan's speech tweeting that it is "a new diplomatic low". Indian PM Narendra Modi will address the UNGA later today at 6:30 pm.

India slams Pak PM Imran Khan at UN, highlights Islamabad's support for terror, religious persecution

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday made a strong pitch for a prominent role for India, the world's largest democracy and home to 1.3 billion people, in the decision-making structures of the United Nations. He also asserted that reform in the responses, processes and in the very character of the global body is the "need of the hour."

In his pre-recorded video statement to the landmark General Debate of the 75th session of the UN General Assembly, Modi said the stability in the United Nations and empowerment of the world body are essential for the welfare of the world.

The prime minister's strong push for UN reforms and the much-delayed expansion of the powerful Security Council came as India will begin its two-year term as an elected non-permanent member of the 15-member Council from January 1 next year.

Modi also assured the United Nations that the largest democracy of the world would help the world in fighting the coronavirus crisis and in the development of a vaccine.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/as-biggest-vaccine-maker-india-will-help-humanity-fight-covid-crisis-pm-modi-at-unga-330476">Also read |&nbsp;As biggest vaccine maker, India will help humanity fight COVID crisis: PM Modi at UNGA</a>

"For how long will India be kept out of the decision-making structures of the United Nations? How long would a country have to wait particularly when the transformational changes happening in that country affect a large part of the world?" Modi said.

He said that while it is a fact that the faith and respect that the United Nations enjoys among the 1.3 billion people in India is "unparalleled", it is also true that the people of India have been waiting for a long time for the process for the reforms of the United Nations to get completed.

"Today, people of India are concerned whether this reform-process will ever reach its logical conclusion," he said, adding that every Indian today, while seeing the contribution of India in the world organisation, aspires for India's expanded role in the United Nations.

"Reform in the responses, in the processes, and in the very character of the United Nations is the need of the hour," he emphasised.

India has been spearheading decades-long efforts to reform the Security Council, saying a structure set up in 1945 does not reflect contemporary realities of the 21st Century and is ill-equipped to handle current challenges.

There is widespread support, including by four out of the five permanent members of the Security Council - US, UK, France and Russia - for a permanent seat for India at the Council.

Modi said India is a country which is the largest democracy of the world, with more than 18 per cent of the world population, has hundreds of languages, dialects, many sects and ideologies, which was a leading global economy for centuries and also endured hundreds of years of foreign rule.

"When we were strong, we were never a threat to the world, when we were weak, we never became a burden on the world," he said.

Modi emphasised that the world of today is a completely different era from the world of 1945 when the global situation, sources-resources, problems-solutions were all quite different.

"With the changing times, if we don't change, then the drive needed to bring change will also get weakened," he said.

An objective assessment of the performance of the United Nations over the last 75 years would yield several stellar achievements but at the same time, there are also several instances that point to the need for a "serious introspection of the work of the United Nations," he said.

"Several terrorist attacks shook the world and rivers of blood have continued to flow by," he said.

"During those times and even today, can we suggest that efforts of the United Nations to tackle these issues were sufficient," he said.

Modi said India will not hesitate to raise its voice against the enemies of humanity, including terrorism, smuggling of illegal weapons, drugs and money-laundering, and will always speak in support of peace, security and prosperity.

"Starting from January next year, India will also fulfill its responsibility as a non-permanent member of the Security Council. I express my gratitude to all fellow member states who have bestowed this trust upon India," he said, referring to the overwhelming support the country received during the election in June.

"As the world's largest democracy, we will bring our years of rich experience for the benefit of the whole world," he added.

Modi underscored that the ideals on which the UN was founded and India's own fundamental philosophy has a lot of commonality and are not different from each other. 
"Within the halls of the United Nations, one has often heard the words 'the world is one family'," he said, adding that it is part of India's culture, character and thinking to treat the whole world as one family.

"In the United Nations too, India has always given priority to the welfare of the whole world," he said, outlining that India has sent its brave soldiers to about 50 peacekeeping missions the world over to keep peace and in the course of maintaining peace, has lost the maximum number of its brave soldiers.

"India's experiences, and India's developmental journey marked with its ups and downs will only add to strengthening the path to global welfare," he said.

"In the changed circumstances of the post-pandemic era, we are moving forward with the vision of a 'Self-reliant India'," which will also be a force multiplier for the global economy, he said.

"In its journey towards progress, India wants to learn from the world as well as share its own experiences with the world," Modi added.

"Over 150 countries were sent medical supplies by Indian pharmaceuticals during the coronavirus pandemic. India's vaccine production will help in bringing the world out of the pandemic. We are moving towards Phase 3 of clinical trials. We are increasing infrastructure and will help others increase it," PM Modi said.

This year's high-level UN General Assembly is being held in a largely virtual format due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Earlier, India's Permanent Representative to the UN, TS Tirumurti, introduced Modi's pre-recorded statement from the General Assembly Hall.&nbsp;

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday made a strong pitch for a prominent role for India, the world's largest democracy and home to 1.3 billion people, in the decision-making structures of the United Nations.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday made a strong pitch for a prominent role for India, the world's largest democracy and home to 1.3 billion people, in the decision-making structures of the United Nations. He also asserted that reform in the responses, processes and in the very character of the global body is the "need of the hour." In his pre-recorded video statement to the landmark General Debate of the 75th session of the UN General Assembly, Modi said the stability in the United Nations and empowerment of the world body are essential for the welfare of the world. The prime minister's strong push for UN reforms and the much-delayed expansion of the powerful Security Council came as India will begin its two-year term as an elected non-permanent member of the 15-member Council from January 1 next year. Modi also assured the United Nations that the largest democracy of the world would help the world in fighting the coronavirus crisis and in the development of a vaccine. Also read | As biggest vaccine maker, India will help humanity fight COVID crisis: PM Modi at UNGA "For how long will India be kept out of the decision-making structures of the United Nations? How long would a country have to wait particularly when the transformational changes happening in that country affect a large part of the world?" Modi said. He said that while it is a fact that the faith and respect that the United Nations enjoys among the 1.3 billion people in India is "unparalleled", it is also true that the people of India have been waiting for a long time for the process for the reforms of the United Nations to get completed. "Today, people of India are concerned whether this reform-process will ever reach its logical conclusion," he said, adding that every Indian today, while seeing the contribution of India in the world organisation, aspires for India's expanded role in the United Nations. "Reform in the responses, in the processes, and in the very character of the United Nations is the need of the hour," he emphasised. India has been spearheading decades-long efforts to reform the Security Council, saying a structure set up in 1945 does not reflect contemporary realities of the 21st Century and is ill-equipped to handle current challenges. There is widespread support, including by four out of the five permanent members of the Security Council - US, UK, France and Russia - for a permanent seat for India at the Council. Modi said India is a country which is the largest democracy of the world, with more than 18 per cent of the world population, has hundreds of languages, dialects, many sects and ideologies, which was a leading global economy for centuries and also endured hundreds of years of foreign rule. "When we were strong, we were never a threat to the world, when we were weak, we never became a burden on the world," he said. Modi emphasised that the world of today is a completely different era from the world of 1945 when the global situation, sources-resources, problems-solutions were all quite different. "With the changing times, if we don't change, then the drive needed to bring change will also get weakened," he said. An objective assessment of the performance of the United Nations over the last 75 years would yield several stellar achievements but at the same time, there are also several instances that point to the need for a "serious introspection of the work of the United Nations," he said. "Several terrorist attacks shook the world and rivers of blood have continued to flow by," he said. "During those times and even today, can we suggest that efforts of the United Nations to tackle these issues were sufficient," he said. Modi said India will not hesitate to raise its voice against the enemies of humanity, including terrorism, smuggling of illegal weapons, drugs and money-laundering, and will always speak in support of peace, security and prosperity. "Starting from January next year, India will also fulfill its responsibility as a non-permanent member of the Security Council. I express my gratitude to all fellow member states who have bestowed this trust upon India," he said, referring to the overwhelming support the country received during the election in June. "As the world's largest democracy, we will bring our years of rich experience for the benefit of the whole world," he added. Modi underscored that the ideals on which the UN was founded and India's own fundamental philosophy has a lot of commonality and are not different from each other. "Within the halls of the United Nations, one has often heard the words 'the world is one family'," he said, adding that it is part of India's culture, character and thinking to treat the whole world as one family. "In the United Nations too, India has always given priority to the welfare of the whole world," he said, outlining that India has sent its brave soldiers to about 50 peacekeeping missions the world over to keep peace and in the course of maintaining peace, has lost the maximum number of its brave soldiers. "India's experiences, and India's developmental journey marked with its ups and downs will only add to strengthening the path to global welfare," he said. "In the changed circumstances of the post-pandemic era, we are moving forward with the vision of a 'Self-reliant India'," which will also be a force multiplier for the global economy, he said. "In its journey towards progress, India wants to learn from the world as well as share its own experiences with the world," Modi added. "Over 150 countries were sent medical supplies by Indian pharmaceuticals during the coronavirus pandemic. India's vaccine production will help in bringing the world out of the pandemic. We are moving towards Phase 3 of clinical trials. We are increasing infrastructure and will help others increase it," PM Modi said. This year's high-level UN General Assembly is being held in a largely virtual format due to the coronavirus pandemic. Earlier, India's Permanent Representative to the UN, TS Tirumurti, introduced Modi's pre-recorded statement from the General Assembly Hall.

At UNGA, PM Modi bats for reforms and a bigger role for India in decision-making

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At UNGA, PM Modi bats for reforms and a bigger role for India in decision-making