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A new study suggests constant nudges from Indian PM Narendra Modi and the Indian Government helped the country tackle the coronavirus on several fronts. India has reported over 5.2 million cases and over 82,000 deaths, making the country one of the worst-hit in the world. Watch report.

Coronavirus Pandemic: PM Modi's constant nudges helped India fight COVID-19

India's single-day recovery outstripped the number of new infections as nearly 96,000 people recuperated from the novel coronavirus, even as the total caseload went past 5.3 million, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Saturday.

The figures released at 8 am showed that while 95,880 people recovered from COVID-19 in a span of 24 hours, 93,337 new infections were recorded during the period.

With the latest inclusions, the total number of cases mounted to 5,308,014 and the recoveries to 4,208,431, pushing the recovery rate to 79.28 per cent.

The death toll, meanwhile, climbed to 85,619 with the virus claiming 1,247 lives in a span of 24 hours, the updated data showed.

The COVID-19 case fatality rate has further dropped at 1.61 per cent, the data showed.

There are 10,13,964 active cases of COVID-19 in the country, which constitute 19.10 per cent of the total caseload, the data stated.

The country's COVID-19 tally had crossed the 20-lakh mark on August 7, the 3 million mark on August 23, 4 million on September 5, and it went past 5 million on September 16.

According to the Indian Council of Medical Research, a cumulative 62,454,254 COVID-19 samples have been tested up to September 18 — 881,911 of them on Friday.

The 1,247 new deaths include 440 from Maharashtra, 179 from Karnataka, 98 from Uttar Pradesh, 67 each from Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, 62 from Punjab, 59 from West Bengal, 31 from Puducherry and 30 from Delhi.

The total 85,619 deaths reported so far in the country include 1,791 from Maharashtra followed by 8,685 from Tamil Nadu, 7,808 from Karnataka, 5,244 from Andhra Pradesh.

The national capital has reported 4,907 deaths while 4,869 fatalities have been recorded in Uttar Pradesh, 4,242 in West Bengal, 3,286 in Gujarat, 2,708 in Punjab and 1,901 in Madhya Pradesh.

The health ministry stressed that more than 70 per cent of the deaths have occurred due to comorbidities.

"Our figures are being reconciled with the Indian Council of Medical Research," the ministry said on its website, adding that state-wise distribution of figures is subject to further verification and reconciliation.&nbsp;

India's single-day recovery outstripped the number of new infections as nearly 96,000 people recuperated from the novel coronavirus, even as the total caseload went past 5.

India's single-day recovery outstripped the number of new infections as nearly 96,000 people recuperated from the novel coronavirus, even as the total caseload went past 5.3 million, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Saturday. The figures released at 8 am showed that while 95,880 people recovered from COVID-19 in a span of 24 hours, 93,337 new infections were recorded during the period. With the latest inclusions, the total number of cases mounted to 5,308,014 and the recoveries to 4,208,431, pushing the recovery rate to 79.28 per cent. The death toll, meanwhile, climbed to 85,619 with the virus claiming 1,247 lives in a span of 24 hours, the updated data showed. The COVID-19 case fatality rate has further dropped at 1.61 per cent, the data showed. There are 10,13,964 active cases of COVID-19 in the country, which constitute 19.10 per cent of the total caseload, the data stated. The country's COVID-19 tally had crossed the 20-lakh mark on August 7, the 3 million mark on August 23, 4 million on September 5, and it went past 5 million on September 16. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research, a cumulative 62,454,254 COVID-19 samples have been tested up to September 18 — 881,911 of them on Friday. The 1,247 new deaths include 440 from Maharashtra, 179 from Karnataka, 98 from Uttar Pradesh, 67 each from Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, 62 from Punjab, 59 from West Bengal, 31 from Puducherry and 30 from Delhi. The total 85,619 deaths reported so far in the country include 1,791 from Maharashtra followed by 8,685 from Tamil Nadu, 7,808 from Karnataka, 5,244 from Andhra Pradesh. The national capital has reported 4,907 deaths while 4,869 fatalities have been recorded in Uttar Pradesh, 4,242 in West Bengal, 3,286 in Gujarat, 2,708 in Punjab and 1,901 in Madhya Pradesh. The health ministry stressed that more than 70 per cent of the deaths have occurred due to comorbidities. "Our figures are being reconciled with the Indian Council of Medical Research," the ministry said on its website, adding that state-wise distribution of figures is subject to further verification and reconciliation.

COVID 19: India's death tally crosses 85,000; fatality rate drops to 1.61%

The high-power China Study Group (CSG) met on Friday and carried out a comprehensive review of the overall situation in eastern Ladakh including India's operational preparedness in view of the continued belligerence by the Chinese army and its fresh attempts to "intimidate" Indian troops in the region.

At a nearly 90-minute meeting of the group, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Bipin Rawat and the three service chiefs also looked at further enhancing the vigil along the nearly 3,500-km-long Line of Actual Control (LAC), including in Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim sectors, sources told PTI.

The sources said the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) is yet to respond to the Indian Army's communication to it on holding the next round of the Corps commander-level talks.

"There is no date as of now as the Chinese military is yet to respond to it. The talks could take place sometime next week," a source said.

The two sides have so far held five rounds of talks at the level of Corps commanders.

Army Chief Gen. MM Naravane briefed the meeting about the fresh face-offs between Indian and Chinese troops at both the north and south bank of the Pangong lake and elaborated on steps taken to effectively deal with such attempts, the sources said.

The meeting also deliberated on arrangements being made to maintain the current level of troops and weapons in all forward areas in eastern Ladakh and other sensitive high-altitude sectors in the harsh winter months when the temperature drops up to minus 25 degree Celsius.

The sources said the meeting also briefly touched upon the main talking points to be raised by the Indian side at the next Corps commander-level talks which is expected to focus on the implementation of an agreement reached between foreign ministers of India and China at a meeting in Moscow on September 10.

"We will insist on early and complete disengagement of Chinese troops from all friction points. That is the first step for restoration of peace and tranquillity along the border," said a source.

The sources said the situation remained tense at both the north and south bank of the Pangong lake area as well as at other friction points in eastern Ladakh.

There have been at least three attempts by the PLA to "intimidate" Indian troops along the north and south 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.

External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Anurag Srivastava on Thursday said China should take forward the process for complete disengagement of troops from all friction points including at the Pangong lake area, and asked it not to make unilateral attempts to change the status quo.

He said both sides should focus on easing tensions in the friction areas by refraining from any actions that may lead to an escalation in the situation.

The assertion by Srivastava came in the backdrop of remarks by Chinese foreign ministry on Wednesday that it was for India to initiate the process to disengage and restore peace along the LAC.

Both sides reached a five-point agreement to resolve the border standoff at a meeting between External Affairs minister S Jaishankar and his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi on September 10 on the sidelines of a Shanghai Cooperation Organisation(SCO) meet in Moscow.

The agreement 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.

The situation in eastern Ladakh deteriorated after China unsuccessfully attempted to occupy Indian territory in the southern bank of Pangong lake on the intervening night of August 29 and 30.

India occupied a number of strategic heights on the southern bank of Pangong lake and strengthened its presence in Finger 2 and Finger 3 areas in the region to thwart any Chinese actions. China has been occupying the areas between Finger 4 and Finger 8. The mountain spurs in the area is called Fingers.

China has strongly objected to India's move. However, India has maintained that the heights are on its side of the LAC.

India has also rushed in additional troops and weapons to the sensitive region following China's transgression attempts.

Following China's fresh attempts to change the status quo in the southern bank of Pangong lake, India has further bolstered its military presence in the region.&nbsp;

The high-power China Study Group (CSG) met on Friday and carried out a comprehensive review of the overall situation in eastern Ladakh including India's operational preparedness in view of the continued belligerence by the Chinese army and its fresh attempts to "intimidate" Indian troops in the region.

The high-power China Study Group (CSG) met on Friday and carried out a comprehensive review of the overall situation in eastern Ladakh including India's operational preparedness in view of the continued belligerence by the Chinese army and its fresh attempts to "intimidate" Indian troops in the region. At a nearly 90-minute meeting of the group, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Bipin Rawat and the three service chiefs also looked at further enhancing the vigil along the nearly 3,500-km-long Line of Actual Control (LAC), including in Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim sectors, sources told PTI. The sources said the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) is yet to respond to the Indian Army's communication to it on holding the next round of the Corps commander-level talks. "There is no date as of now as the Chinese military is yet to respond to it. The talks could take place sometime next week," a source said. The two sides have so far held five rounds of talks at the level of Corps commanders. Army Chief Gen. MM Naravane briefed the meeting about the fresh face-offs between Indian and Chinese troops at both the north and south bank of the Pangong lake and elaborated on steps taken to effectively deal with such attempts, the sources said. The meeting also deliberated on arrangements being made to maintain the current level of troops and weapons in all forward areas in eastern Ladakh and other sensitive high-altitude sectors in the harsh winter months when the temperature drops up to minus 25 degree Celsius. The sources said the meeting also briefly touched upon the main talking points to be raised by the Indian side at the next Corps commander-level talks which is expected to focus on the implementation of an agreement reached between foreign ministers of India and China at a meeting in Moscow on September 10. "We will insist on early and complete disengagement of Chinese troops from all friction points. That is the first step for restoration of peace and tranquillity along the border," said a source. The sources said the situation remained tense at both the north and south bank of the Pangong lake area as well as at other friction points in eastern Ladakh. There have been at least three attempts by the PLA to "intimidate" Indian troops along the north and south 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. External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Anurag Srivastava on Thursday said China should take forward the process for complete disengagement of troops from all friction points including at the Pangong lake area, and asked it not to make unilateral attempts to change the status quo. He said both sides should focus on easing tensions in the friction areas by refraining from any actions that may lead to an escalation in the situation. The assertion by Srivastava came in the backdrop of remarks by Chinese foreign ministry on Wednesday that it was for India to initiate the process to disengage and restore peace along the LAC. Both sides reached a five-point agreement to resolve the border standoff at a meeting between External Affairs minister S Jaishankar and his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi on September 10 on the sidelines of a Shanghai Cooperation Organisation(SCO) meet in Moscow. The agreement 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. The situation in eastern Ladakh deteriorated after China unsuccessfully attempted to occupy Indian territory in the southern bank of Pangong lake on the intervening night of August 29 and 30. India occupied a number of strategic heights on the southern bank of Pangong lake and strengthened its presence in Finger 2 and Finger 3 areas in the region to thwart any Chinese actions. China has been occupying the areas between Finger 4 and Finger 8. The mountain spurs in the area is called Fingers. China has strongly objected to India's move. However, India has maintained that the heights are on its side of the LAC. India has also rushed in additional troops and weapons to the sensitive region following China's transgression attempts. Following China's fresh attempts to change the status quo in the southern bank of Pangong lake, India has further bolstered its military presence in the region.

India, China likely to soon hold next Corps commander-level talks, sources say

The US Justice Department has revealed that Chinese hackers charged in a multi-nation spying and targetted government networks in India. Watch report.

'Hackers targetted Indian government websites' | US Justice Department reveals

The US Justice Department has said the five Chinese hackers who were charged targeted Indian government's networks and "compromised foreign government computer networks".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/chinese-hacker-group-apt41-dupe-companies-in-malaysia-and-china-328339">Also Read: Chinese hacker group, APT41, dupe companies in Malaysia and China</a>

Deputy US Attorney General Jeffrey Rosen has charged five Chinese nationals with computer hacking and charged two Malaysians for helping them.

Justice Department statement said the Malaysian nationals were arrested but the Chinese nationals were still at large.

"In about 2019, the conspirators compromised government of lndia websites, as well as virtual private networks and database servers supporting the government of India. The conspirators used VPS PROVIDER servers to connect to an Open VPN network owned by the government of India," the indictment said.

The conspirators had installed "Cobalt strike" malware on Indian government-protected computers, it added.

"In one notable instance, the defendants conducted a ransomware attack on the network of a non-profit organization dedicated to combating global poverty," it said.

The indictment against Zhang and Tan charged the defendants with "two counts" of conspiracy to commit computer fraud which carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison.

The US government alleged that the hackers targeted "over 100 victim companies in the United States and abroad, including software development companies, computer hardware manufacturers, telecommunications providers, social media companies, video game companies, non-profit organizations, universities, think tanks, and foreign governments, as well as pro-democracy politicians and activists in Hong Kong."

"The intrusions, which security researchers have tracked using the threat labels “APT41,” “Barium,” “Winnti,” “Wicked Panda,” and “Wicked Spider,” it said.

“The scope and sophistication of the crimes in these unsealed indictments is unprecedented. The alleged criminal scheme used actors in China and Malaysia to illegally hack, intrude and steal information from victims worldwide,” Michael R. Sherwin, acting US attorney for the District of Columbia, said.

The US Justice Department has said the five Chinese hackers who were charged targeted Indian government's networks and "compromised foreign government computer networks".

The US Justice Department has said the five Chinese hackers who were charged targeted Indian government's networks and "compromised foreign government computer networks". Also Read: Chinese hacker group, APT41, dupe companies in Malaysia and China Deputy US Attorney General Jeffrey Rosen has charged five Chinese nationals with computer hacking and charged two Malaysians for helping them. Justice Department statement said the Malaysian nationals were arrested but the Chinese nationals were still at large. "In about 2019, the conspirators compromised government of lndia websites, as well as virtual private networks and database servers supporting the government of India. The conspirators used VPS PROVIDER servers to connect to an Open VPN network owned by the government of India," the indictment said. The conspirators had installed "Cobalt strike" malware on Indian government-protected computers, it added. "In one notable instance, the defendants conducted a ransomware attack on the network of a non-profit organization dedicated to combating global poverty," it said. The indictment against Zhang and Tan charged the defendants with "two counts" of conspiracy to commit computer fraud which carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison. The US government alleged that the hackers targeted "over 100 victim companies in the United States and abroad, including software development companies, computer hardware manufacturers, telecommunications providers, social media companies, video game companies, non-profit organizations, universities, think tanks, and foreign governments, as well as pro-democracy politicians and activists in Hong Kong." "The intrusions, which security researchers have tracked using the threat labels “APT41,” “Barium,” “Winnti,” “Wicked Panda,” and “Wicked Spider,” it said. “The scope and sophistication of the crimes in these unsealed indictments is unprecedented. The alleged criminal scheme used actors in China and Malaysia to illegally hack, intrude and steal information from victims worldwide,” Michael R. Sherwin, acting US attorney for the District of Columbia, said.

Chinese hackers compromised Indian government websites: US Justice Department

The second batch of Indian deportees from Saudi Arabia will reach India on September 24 via the Riyadh-Chennai flight.

The Indian embassy in Saudi Arabia in a statement said,"Mission in Riyadh, consulate in Jeddah, and MEA are arranging flights and quarantine facilities for the second batch of deportees...further flights from Riyadh and Jeddah are currently being worked out and will be notified shortly."

"Mission and consulate officials are in regular touch with deportation &nbsp;authorities," it added.

The first batch of around 500 deportees was sent in May to Hyderabad. The multi agency process requires several clearances and follows strict anti-COVID-19 health protocols.

The second batch of Indian deportees from Saudi Arabia will reach India on September 24 via the Riyadh-Chennai flight. The Indian embassy in Saudi Arabia in a statement said,"Mission in Riyadh, consulate in Jeddah, and MEA are arranging flights and quarantine facilities for the second batch of deportees.

The second batch of Indian deportees from Saudi Arabia will reach India on September 24 via the Riyadh-Chennai flight. The Indian embassy in Saudi Arabia in a statement said,"Mission in Riyadh, consulate in Jeddah, and MEA are arranging flights and quarantine facilities for the second batch of deportees...further flights from Riyadh and Jeddah are currently being worked out and will be notified shortly." "Mission and consulate officials are in regular touch with deportation authorities," it added. The first batch of around 500 deportees was sent in May to Hyderabad. The multi agency process requires several clearances and follows strict anti-COVID-19 health protocols.

Second batch of Indian deportees from Saudi Arabia to reach on September 24

Devotion is not quantified by display, you do not need to attend Sunday masses, fight the crowd at a temple or queue up outside a Mosque to show your love and respect for God, faith is personal and who is supposed to know this better than religious leaders.

Which religious text, holy book preaches risking the lives of others? None.

What then was the need to hold so many religious gatherings in the middle of the pandemic? Does attending religious gatherings, violating social distancing solve anything? The stories are not unique to South Korea or Ukraine.&nbsp;

In India, a religious gathering blew the Wuhan virus crisis out of proportion. A Muslim missionary movement called the Tablighi Jamaat organised a three-day event in the middle of the pandemic which was held in New Delhi and it was attended by at least 8,000 people from India and abroad. The result was disastrous, to put it in numbers nearly a third of India's total cases by the first week of April were related to the Tablighi Jamaat event.

However, religious leaders went ahead and repeated the same mistake four months later in July, thousands gathered in the religious town of Puri for the annual Jagannath Rath Yatra where social distancing was flouted left, right and centre.

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The events have been taking place at a time when people accepted and adapted to the new normal. They spent Easter at home and&nbsp;celebrated Baisakhi on video calls.

However, the Tablighi Jamaat event and the South Korean churches cannot be undone but we can draw lessons from it and what better time to reflect than now with Europe in the middle of what is being called "a very serious situation", at least half of EU countries have been witnessing a rise in cases.

&nbsp;Spain has over 625,000 cases, France has over 415,000 cases, Italy nearly 300,000 cases. Spain has been mulling a lockdown, several other countries are likely to follow with Europe bracing for a second wave.&nbsp;

The UK is also considering a lockdown. It is hoped that history does not repeat itself, let faith empower you into fighting the pandemic but not blind you into making the situation worse.

Devotion is not quantified by display, you do not need to attend Sunday masses, fight the crowd at a temple or queue up outside a Mosque to show your love and respect for God, faith is personal and who is supposed to know this better than religious leaders.

Devotion is not quantified by display, you do not need to attend Sunday masses, fight the crowd at a temple or queue up outside a Mosque to show your love and respect for God, faith is personal and who is supposed to know this better than religious leaders. Which religious text, holy book preaches risking the lives of others? None. What then was the need to hold so many religious gatherings in the middle of the pandemic? Does attending religious gatherings, violating social distancing solve anything? The stories are not unique to South Korea or Ukraine. In India, a religious gathering blew the Wuhan virus crisis out of proportion. A Muslim missionary movement called the Tablighi Jamaat organised a three-day event in the middle of the pandemic which was held in New Delhi and it was attended by at least 8,000 people from India and abroad. The result was disastrous, to put it in numbers nearly a third of India's total cases by the first week of April were related to the Tablighi Jamaat event. However, religious leaders went ahead and repeated the same mistake four months later in July, thousands gathered in the religious town of Puri for the annual Jagannath Rath Yatra where social distancing was flouted left, right and centre. × The events have been taking place at a time when people accepted and adapted to the new normal. They spent Easter at home and celebrated Baisakhi on video calls. However, the Tablighi Jamaat event and the South Korean churches cannot be undone but we can draw lessons from it and what better time to reflect than now with Europe in the middle of what is being called "a very serious situation", at least half of EU countries have been witnessing a rise in cases. Spain has over 625,000 cases, France has over 415,000 cases, Italy nearly 300,000 cases. Spain has been mulling a lockdown, several other countries are likely to follow with Europe bracing for a second wave. The UK is also considering a lockdown. It is hoped that history does not repeat itself, let faith empower you into fighting the pandemic but not blind you into making the situation worse.

When religious events hinder fight against COVID-19

Delhi Police on Saturday said arrested freelance journalist Rajeev Sharma was allegedly passing sensitive information about India's border strategy and Army deployment to Chinese intelligence.

At a press conference, Special Cell DCP Sanjeev Kumar Yadav said Sharma was writing on defence-related issues for some Indian media organisations, as well as China's Global Times.

He was allegedly contacted by Chinese Intelligence agents in 2016. Sharma was also in contact with some Chinese intelligence officer, the police officer claimed, adding the freelance journalist got "Rs 40 lakh in one-and-a-half years and he was getting $1,000 for each information".

Sharma was arrested September 14 based on inputs from central intelligence. Police have seized classified defence documents from him, the DCP said.

He said that a Chinese woman and her Nepalese associate have also been arrested for allegedly paying Sharma large amounts of money routed through shell companies.

Delhi Police on Saturday said arrested freelance journalist Rajeev Sharma was allegedly passing sensitive information about India's border strategy and Army deployment to Chinese intelligence.

Delhi Police on Saturday said arrested freelance journalist Rajeev Sharma was allegedly passing sensitive information about India's border strategy and Army deployment to Chinese intelligence. At a press conference, Special Cell DCP Sanjeev Kumar Yadav said Sharma was writing on defence-related issues for some Indian media organisations, as well as China's Global Times. He was allegedly contacted by Chinese Intelligence agents in 2016. Sharma was also in contact with some Chinese intelligence officer, the police officer claimed, adding the freelance journalist got "Rs 40 lakh in one-and-a-half years and he was getting $1,000 for each information". Sharma was arrested September 14 based on inputs from central intelligence. Police have seized classified defence documents from him, the DCP said. He said that a Chinese woman and her Nepalese associate have also been arrested for allegedly paying Sharma large amounts of money routed through shell companies.

Arrested scribe Rajeev Sharma was passing info on India's border strategy to Chinese: Delhi Police

Amid the coronavirus pandemic, India's Parliament is likely to be adjourned next week, reports said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/parliament-session-may-be-cut-short-as-covid-19-cases-among-indian-lawmakers-rise-sources-328605">Also Read:&nbsp;Parliament session may be cut short as COVID-19 cases among Indian lawmakers rise</a>

The Parliament which had opened on September 14 amid the pandemic has been hit by the virus with at least 30 lawmakers infected with the coronavirus.

Reports say the final decision on curtailing the session has been left to the Speaker in Lok Sabha.

There is reportedly consensus among MPs to adjourn the Parliament. The current session of Parliament was due to function till October 1.

The House had opened amid restrictions as it was decided that the Question Hour and private members' business during the session would be done away with. The Zero Hour was also restricted and the sessions were&nbsp;held in two shifts - 9am to 1pm and 3pm to 7pm with no break during the session.

Both Houses were allowed to function on Saturdays and Sundays.&nbsp;

India's Upper House the Rajya Sabha conducted its session in the morning shift and the Lower House the Lok Sabha sat in the evening.

Amid the coronavirus pandemic, India's Parliament is likely to be adjourned next week, reports said. Also Read: Parliament session may be cut short as COVID-19 cases among Indian lawmakers rise The Parliament which had opened on September 14 amid the pandemic has been hit by the virus with at least 30 lawmakers infected with the coronavirus.

Amid the coronavirus pandemic, India's Parliament is likely to be adjourned next week, reports said. Also Read: Parliament session may be cut short as COVID-19 cases among Indian lawmakers rise The Parliament which had opened on September 14 amid the pandemic has been hit by the virus with at least 30 lawmakers infected with the coronavirus. Reports say the final decision on curtailing the session has been left to the Speaker in Lok Sabha. There is reportedly consensus among MPs to adjourn the Parliament. The current session of Parliament was due to function till October 1. The House had opened amid restrictions as it was decided that the Question Hour and private members' business during the session would be done away with. The Zero Hour was also restricted and the sessions were held in two shifts - 9am to 1pm and 3pm to 7pm with no break during the session. Both Houses were allowed to function on Saturdays and Sundays. India's Upper House the Rajya Sabha conducted its session in the morning shift and the Lower House the Lok Sabha sat in the evening.

Parliament session likely to be curtailed next week over COVID-19: Report

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Saturday ordered attaching of a property of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terrorist Irshad Ahmed Reshi, who was arrested by the agency in connection with an attack on a CRPF Group Centre in south Kashmir in 2017

The property, which is a house, is in the name of Irshad Reshi's father Nazir Ahmad Reshi in Pulwama district of Jammu and Kashmir.

The house along with 17 marlas of land, situated in Ratnipora village of Kakapora area in south Kashmir's Pulwama district, was attached as a property that represents proceeds of terrorism and that which has been used for furtherance of activities of the JeM terrorist organisation, an NIA spokesperson said in a statement.

The attaching of the property has been made in exercise of powers granted under Section 25 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), 1967.

The accused, Irshad Reshi, was an active Over Ground Worker (OGW) of the JeM militant group. He was also a close associate of slain militant and JeM commander Noor Mohammad Tantray alias Noor Trali.

The attack on the CRPF Group Centre at Lethpora in south Kashmir was executed under a conspiracy to avenge the death of Noor Trali, who was killed in an encounter with security forces in December 2017.

Irshad Reshi, who was arrested by the NIA in April 2019, was a key conspirator who provided logistic support like shelter and transport to the militants and conducted reconnaissance of the CRPF Group Centre before the attack.

Five CRPF personnel were killed when JeM terrorists carried out the attack on the CRPF Group Centre during the intervening night of December 30 and 31, 2017.

Three terrorists were killed retaliatory fire.

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Saturday ordered attaching of a property of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terrorist Irshad Ahmed Reshi, who was arrested by the agency in connection with an attack on a CRPF Group Centre in south Kashmir in 2017 The property, which is a house, is in the name of Irshad Reshi's father Nazir Ahmad Reshi in Pulwama district of Jammu and Kashmir.

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Saturday ordered attaching of a property of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terrorist Irshad Ahmed Reshi, who was arrested by the agency in connection with an attack on a CRPF Group Centre in south Kashmir in 2017 The property, which is a house, is in the name of Irshad Reshi's father Nazir Ahmad Reshi in Pulwama district of Jammu and Kashmir. The house along with 17 marlas of land, situated in Ratnipora village of Kakapora area in south Kashmir's Pulwama district, was attached as a property that represents proceeds of terrorism and that which has been used for furtherance of activities of the JeM terrorist organisation, an NIA spokesperson said in a statement. The attaching of the property has been made in exercise of powers granted under Section 25 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), 1967. The accused, Irshad Reshi, was an active Over Ground Worker (OGW) of the JeM militant group. He was also a close associate of slain militant and JeM commander Noor Mohammad Tantray alias Noor Trali. The attack on the CRPF Group Centre at Lethpora in south Kashmir was executed under a conspiracy to avenge the death of Noor Trali, who was killed in an encounter with security forces in December 2017. Irshad Reshi, who was arrested by the NIA in April 2019, was a key conspirator who provided logistic support like shelter and transport to the militants and conducted reconnaissance of the CRPF Group Centre before the attack. Five CRPF personnel were killed when JeM terrorists carried out the attack on the CRPF Group Centre during the intervening night of December 30 and 31, 2017. Three terrorists were killed retaliatory fire.

NIA orders attaching house belonging to arrested JeM terrorist

Indian aircraft carrier INS Viraat that had been decommissioned in 2017 took its last voyage on Saturday from western Mumbai city to Gujarat state.

INS Viraat served the Indian Navy for 30 years, will be dismantled after it reaches Alang town in the state, said media reports.

Before it was acquired by India, the vessel was the flagship of the Royal Navy of the United Kingdom in which she was famous for participating in the Falklands War.

It was commissioned by the Indian Navy on May 12, 1987, after serving the Royal Navy for 27 years. This makes the total operational service of the aircraft carrier to be about 57 years.

The aircraft carrier played important roles in Indian peacekeeping operations in Sri Lanka, Operation Jupiter in 1989, and the 1999 Kargil conflict between India and Pakistan.

Indian aircraft carrier INS Viraat that had been decommissioned in 2017 took its last voyage on Saturday from western Mumbai city to Gujarat state. INS Viraat served the Indian Navy for 30 years, will be dismantled after it reaches Alang town in the state, said media reports.

Indian aircraft carrier INS Viraat that had been decommissioned in 2017 took its last voyage on Saturday from western Mumbai city to Gujarat state. INS Viraat served the Indian Navy for 30 years, will be dismantled after it reaches Alang town in the state, said media reports. Before it was acquired by India, the vessel was the flagship of the Royal Navy of the United Kingdom in which she was famous for participating in the Falklands War. It was commissioned by the Indian Navy on May 12, 1987, after serving the Royal Navy for 27 years. This makes the total operational service of the aircraft carrier to be about 57 years. The aircraft carrier played important roles in Indian peacekeeping operations in Sri Lanka, Operation Jupiter in 1989, and the 1999 Kargil conflict between India and Pakistan.

Indian Navy's INS Viraat on last voyage to Gujarat, set to be dismantled

Two associates of militants were arrested in Pulwama district of Jammu and Kashmir and incriminating material was seized from their possession, police said on Saturday.

The two were arrested from Awantipora and Khrew areas of the south Kashmir district, a police spokesman said, without disclosing their names.

He said incriminating material of outfits Hizb-ul-Mujahdeen and Al-Badr was seized from the possession of the militant associates.

Cases have been registered and investigations initiated, the spokesman said.

Two associates of militants were arrested in Pulwama district of Jammu and Kashmir and incriminating material was seized from their possession, police said on Saturday.

Two associates of militants were arrested in Pulwama district of Jammu and Kashmir and incriminating material was seized from their possession, police said on Saturday. The two were arrested from Awantipora and Khrew areas of the south Kashmir district, a police spokesman said, without disclosing their names. He said incriminating material of outfits Hizb-ul-Mujahdeen and Al-Badr was seized from the possession of the militant associates. Cases have been registered and investigations initiated, the spokesman said.

Two terrorist associates held in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) said on Saturday it has arrested nine al Qaeda militants who were planning attacks in several locations including the capital New Delhi.

"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," the country's main counter-terrorism arm said in a statement.

Simultaneous raids were conducted&nbsp;on early Saturday morning at several locations in Murshidabad of West Bengal and Ernakulam of Kerala.

Six of the militants were arrested in West Bengal and while three in Kerala, the NIA said, adding the individuals were "associated with Pakistan sponsored module of al Qaeda".

All terrorists arrested are linked to a terror plot. 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, NIA said in a 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.&nbsp;

As per preliminary investigation, 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, NIA added.

India has stepped up an offensive against militants in the Muslim-majority region of Kashmir and elsewhere.

Last year, Indian forces killed the leader of an al Qaeda-affiliated militant group in Kashmir, triggering protests in parts of the disputed region.

​The arrested terrorists will be produced before the concerned Courts in Kerala and West Bengal for police custody and further investigation.

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) said on Saturday it has arrested nine al Qaeda militants who were planning attacks in several locations including the capital New Delhi.

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) said on Saturday it has arrested nine al Qaeda militants who were planning attacks in several locations including the capital New Delhi. "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," the country's main counter-terrorism arm said in a statement. Simultaneous raids were conducted on early Saturday morning at several locations in Murshidabad of West Bengal and Ernakulam of Kerala. Six of the militants were arrested in West Bengal and while three in Kerala, the NIA said, adding the individuals were "associated with Pakistan sponsored module of al Qaeda". All terrorists arrested are linked to a terror plot. 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, NIA said in a 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. As per preliminary investigation, 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, NIA added. India has stepped up an offensive against militants in the Muslim-majority region of Kashmir and elsewhere. Last year, Indian forces killed the leader of an al Qaeda-affiliated militant group in Kashmir, triggering protests in parts of the disputed region. The arrested terrorists will be produced before the concerned Courts in Kerala and West Bengal for police custody and further investigation.

NIA arrests nine Al-Qaeda terrorists from Kerala, Bengal in multiple raids

The Rajya Sabha passed the Epidemic Diseases Amendment Bill, 2020 on Saturday.

Speaking in the Upper House, Union Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan said that the bill was required to prevent offences against healthcare professionals.

"Many healthcare workers including doctors, paramedics were insulted in some form or the other, due to stigma attached to COVID-19. Centre government acted on this situation found that there was a need for a law, a prohibitory mechanism against such incidents," Dr Harsh Vardhan said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/parliament-session-may-be-cut-short-as-covid-19-cases-among-indian-lawmakers-rise-sources-328605">Also read|&nbsp;Parliament session may be cut short as COVID-19 cases among Indian lawmakers rise: Sources</a>

He said that the Centre had passed the Ordinance to make hurt of any nature or insulting the medical professionals a cognizable offence.

However, Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Derek O`Brien termed the Bill an attempt to encroach states` constitutionally assigned functioning.

Speaking at the Rajya Sabha while the discussions on the bill were underway, the TMC MP said that Bengal already had laws to deal with prevention of violence against doctors and healthcare workers.

"You thought of healthcare workers now? Bengal has Medicare Service Prevention of Violence and Damage to Property Act 2009. What happens to it? Bill is an attempt to encroach states` constitutionally assigned functioning," O`Brien said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/water-essential-element-to-human-right-committed-to-ensuring-access-says-india-at-human-rights-council-328600">Also read|&nbsp;Water essential element to human right, committed to ensuring access says India at Human Rights Council</a>

The TMC leader said that his state had passed the bill for healthcare workers` safety as far back as in 2009.

"You cannot cross the Constitutional bar, you do your work, and let the Chief Ministers do their work. There are sinister provisions also present in this bill," he further added.

The Upper House had earlier passed the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016 (Second Amendment) Bill.The Monsoon Session of the Parliament commenced on Monday and is slated to end on October 1.

The Rajya Sabha passed the Epidemic Diseases Amendment Bill, 2020 on Saturday. Speaking in the Upper House, Union Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan said that the bill was required to prevent offences against healthcare professionals.

The Rajya Sabha passed the Epidemic Diseases Amendment Bill, 2020 on Saturday. Speaking in the Upper House, Union Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan said that the bill was required to prevent offences against healthcare professionals. "Many healthcare workers including doctors, paramedics were insulted in some form or the other, due to stigma attached to COVID-19. Centre government acted on this situation found that there was a need for a law, a prohibitory mechanism against such incidents," Dr Harsh Vardhan said. Also read| Parliament session may be cut short as COVID-19 cases among Indian lawmakers rise: Sources He said that the Centre had passed the Ordinance to make hurt of any nature or insulting the medical professionals a cognizable offence. However, Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Derek O`Brien termed the Bill an attempt to encroach states` constitutionally assigned functioning. Speaking at the Rajya Sabha while the discussions on the bill were underway, the TMC MP said that Bengal already had laws to deal with prevention of violence against doctors and healthcare workers. "You thought of healthcare workers now? Bengal has Medicare Service Prevention of Violence and Damage to Property Act 2009. What happens to it? Bill is an attempt to encroach states` constitutionally assigned functioning," O`Brien said. Also read| Water essential element to human right, committed to ensuring access says India at Human Rights Council The TMC leader said that his state had passed the bill for healthcare workers` safety as far back as in 2009. "You cannot cross the Constitutional bar, you do your work, and let the Chief Ministers do their work. There are sinister provisions also present in this bill," he further added. The Upper House had earlier passed the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016 (Second Amendment) Bill.The Monsoon Session of the Parliament commenced on Monday and is slated to end on October 1.

Rajya Sabha passes the Epidemic Diseases Amendment Bill, 2020

Calling Water essential to human rights, India has said that it is committed to ensuring access to it for its citizens at the United Nations Human Rights Council or UN HRC. India's first secretary to United Nations in Geneva, Vimarsh Aryan said, "India is committed to ensuring access to water and sanitation in all spheres of life beyond the household, particularly in public spaces" which is "an essential element of the human rights to water and sanitation."

The Indian government has undertaken Jal Shakti Abhiyan which focuses on water conservation and water security.

Highlighting Sabka Saath, Sabka vikas, Sabka Vishwas motto of the Indian Govt, Vimarsh said,"with the objective of citizen-centric governance we have accorded highest priority to ensuring access to water and sanitation for all citizens through two flagship programmes — Swachh Bharat Mission and Jal Jeevan Mission".&nbsp;

Under the Swachh Bharat mission, all Indian states have already declared themselves open defecation free. The focus of Jal Jeevan Mission is on providing functional tap connection to all households in the country.

India's statement was at the interactive dialogue with the special rapporteur on the human rights to safe drinking water and sanitation at the 45th session of the Human Rights Council.

Calling Water essential to human rights, India has said that it is committed to ensuring access to it for its citizens at the United Nations Human Rights Council or UN HRC.

Calling Water essential to human rights, India has said that it is committed to ensuring access to it for its citizens at the United Nations Human Rights Council or UN HRC. India's first secretary to United Nations in Geneva, Vimarsh Aryan said, "India is committed to ensuring access to water and sanitation in all spheres of life beyond the household, particularly in public spaces" which is "an essential element of the human rights to water and sanitation." The Indian government has undertaken Jal Shakti Abhiyan which focuses on water conservation and water security. Highlighting Sabka Saath, Sabka vikas, Sabka Vishwas motto of the Indian Govt, Vimarsh said,"with the objective of citizen-centric governance we have accorded highest priority to ensuring access to water and sanitation for all citizens through two flagship programmes — Swachh Bharat Mission and Jal Jeevan Mission". Under the Swachh Bharat mission, all Indian states have already declared themselves open defecation free. The focus of Jal Jeevan Mission is on providing functional tap connection to all households in the country. India's statement was at the interactive dialogue with the special rapporteur on the human rights to safe drinking water and sanitation at the 45th session of the Human Rights Council.

Water essential element to human right, committed to ensuring access says India at Human Rights Council

India`s parliament session that began this week is likely to be cut short after 30 lawmakers were found infected with the coronavirus, two senior parliament officials said, as the number of cases in the country rose to 5.3 million.

The Indian parliament met for the first time in six months on September 14 and was to function until October 1, but the two officials said its duration could be reduced by a week.

"Since the commencement of the session the number of positive cases have gone up so the government is thinking of cutting short the session," said one of the two officials, who are involved in the functioning of parliament proceedings.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-indias-death-tally-crosses-85000-fatality-rate-drops-to-161-328573">Also read|&nbsp;COVID 19: India's death tally crosses 85,000; fatality rate drops to 1.61%</a>

The government has also mandated daily tests for journalist entering parliament to cover the session from Saturday. 
Piyush Soperna, joint director at the country`s upper house`s secretariat, said in an email response that it has no information on the issue of prematurely ending the parliament session next week.

India, which recorded 93,337 new infections in the last 24 hours, has been posting the highest single-day caseload in the world since early August, according to a Reuters tally.

India is the second-most badly hit country after United States with total recorded coronavirus cases at 5.3 million. 
However, deaths in India have been relatively low.

The virus has killed 1,247 people in last 24 hours, taking the total death toll to 85,619, government data showed on Saturday.

The lawmakers who have been infected include Nitin Gadkari, highways and medium and small enterprises minister in Prime Minister`s Narendra Modi`s cabinet.

On Wednesday, India`s government ordered its states not to hoard oxygen supplies and allow free movement to cope with the rising number of cases.

India`s parliament session that began this week is likely to be cut short after 30 lawmakers were found infected with the coronavirus, two senior parliament officials said, as the number of cases in the country rose to 5.

India`s parliament session that began this week is likely to be cut short after 30 lawmakers were found infected with the coronavirus, two senior parliament officials said, as the number of cases in the country rose to 5.3 million. The Indian parliament met for the first time in six months on September 14 and was to function until October 1, but the two officials said its duration could be reduced by a week. "Since the commencement of the session the number of positive cases have gone up so the government is thinking of cutting short the session," said one of the two officials, who are involved in the functioning of parliament proceedings. Also read| COVID 19: India's death tally crosses 85,000; fatality rate drops to 1.61% The government has also mandated daily tests for journalist entering parliament to cover the session from Saturday. Piyush Soperna, joint director at the country`s upper house`s secretariat, said in an email response that it has no information on the issue of prematurely ending the parliament session next week. India, which recorded 93,337 new infections in the last 24 hours, has been posting the highest single-day caseload in the world since early August, according to a Reuters tally. India is the second-most badly hit country after United States with total recorded coronavirus cases at 5.3 million. However, deaths in India have been relatively low. The virus has killed 1,247 people in last 24 hours, taking the total death toll to 85,619, government data showed on Saturday. The lawmakers who have been infected include Nitin Gadkari, highways and medium and small enterprises minister in Prime Minister`s Narendra Modi`s cabinet. On Wednesday, India`s government ordered its states not to hoard oxygen supplies and allow free movement to cope with the rising number of cases.

Parliament session may be cut short as COVID-19 cases among Indian lawmakers rise: Sources

Union Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar on Friday said eight beaches of the country have been recommended for the coveted 'Blue Flag' international eco-label.

He said clean beaches are a testimony to good environment in coastal areas and India's many beaches are among the best in the world.

Speaking on the eve of 'International Coastal Clean-Up Day' celebrated across 100 countries since 1986, Javadekar said for the first time, eight beaches of India have been recommended for the Blue Flag certification.

Blue Flag certification is a globally recognised eco-label accorded by an international agency 'Foundation for Environment Education, Denmark' based on 33 stringent criteria in four major heads--environmental education and information, bathing water quality, environment management and conservation and safety and services in the beaches. &nbsp;The 'Blue Flag' beach is an eco-tourism model endeavouring to provide the tourists/beachgoers clean and hygienic bathing water, facilities/amenities, safe and healthy environment and sustainable development of the area.

“I am very happy that people around the globe are launching 'Coastal Clean Up Day' today. We have also come up with our own hashtag – 'I am saving my beach'. Clean beaches are a testimony to good environment in the coastal area. It is very important, otherwise the problem of marine litter and many other problems of spilling oil, cause disturbances to aquatic life.

“We, today, are taking a vow to clean up our beaches and I am very proud that we have started our highly acclaimed programme BEAMS. So we are cleaning the beaches and today our beaches are much cleaner and many are among the best in the world. Therefore, we all must vow to clean up our beaches,” Javadekar said in a video message.

He also announced India's own eco-label 'Beach Environment and Aesthetics Management Services' (BEAMS) under its Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICZM) project.

The eight beaches recommended under the BEAMS are Shivrajpur in Gujarat, Ghoghla in Daman and Diu, Kasarkod and Padubidri in Karnataka, Kappad in Kerala, Rushikonda in Andhra Pradesh, Golden in Odisha and Radhanagar in Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

The recommendations are done by an independent national jury composed of eminent environmentalists and scientists. Blue Flag beaches are considered the cleanest beaches of the world, the environment ministry said.

BEAMS is one of the several other projects of ICZM that the central government is undertaking for sustainable development of coastal regions, striving for the globally recognised and coveted eco-label 'Blue Flag', it said.

A flag hoisting program was conducted simultaneously at these eight beaches virtually by the ministry and physically at the beaches by respective states/UTs through its MLAs and/or Chairman of Beach Management Committees, the ministry said.

Speaking on the occasion, Union Environment Secretary R P Gupta said high standards are being maintained to clean the beaches to keep the environment safe and in the next four to five years, 100 more beaches will be cleaned.

In a video message, World Bank's country director Zunaid Khan applauded India's efforts towards cleaning up its beaches and said India with its strategies for sustainable coastal zone management shall act as a lighthouse for other countries in the region, the ministry said in a statement.

Elaborating on BEAMS, the ministry said, its objective is to abate pollution in coastal waters, promote sustainable development of beach facilities, protect and conserve coastal ecosystems and natural resources, and seriously challenge local authorities and stakeholders to strive and maintain high standards of cleanliness, hygiene and safety for beachgoers in accordance with coastal environment and regulations.

Union Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar on Friday said eight beaches of the country have been recommended for the coveted 'Blue Flag' international eco-label.

Union Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar on Friday said eight beaches of the country have been recommended for the coveted 'Blue Flag' international eco-label. He said clean beaches are a testimony to good environment in coastal areas and India's many beaches are among the best in the world. Speaking on the eve of 'International Coastal Clean-Up Day' celebrated across 100 countries since 1986, Javadekar said for the first time, eight beaches of India have been recommended for the Blue Flag certification. Blue Flag certification is a globally recognised eco-label accorded by an international agency 'Foundation for Environment Education, Denmark' based on 33 stringent criteria in four major heads--environmental education and information, bathing water quality, environment management and conservation and safety and services in the beaches. The 'Blue Flag' beach is an eco-tourism model endeavouring to provide the tourists/beachgoers clean and hygienic bathing water, facilities/amenities, safe and healthy environment and sustainable development of the area. “I am very happy that people around the globe are launching 'Coastal Clean Up Day' today. We have also come up with our own hashtag – 'I am saving my beach'. Clean beaches are a testimony to good environment in the coastal area. It is very important, otherwise the problem of marine litter and many other problems of spilling oil, cause disturbances to aquatic life. “We, today, are taking a vow to clean up our beaches and I am very proud that we have started our highly acclaimed programme BEAMS. So we are cleaning the beaches and today our beaches are much cleaner and many are among the best in the world. Therefore, we all must vow to clean up our beaches,” Javadekar said in a video message. He also announced India's own eco-label 'Beach Environment and Aesthetics Management Services' (BEAMS) under its Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICZM) project. The eight beaches recommended under the BEAMS are Shivrajpur in Gujarat, Ghoghla in Daman and Diu, Kasarkod and Padubidri in Karnataka, Kappad in Kerala, Rushikonda in Andhra Pradesh, Golden in Odisha and Radhanagar in Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The recommendations are done by an independent national jury composed of eminent environmentalists and scientists. Blue Flag beaches are considered the cleanest beaches of the world, the environment ministry said. BEAMS is one of the several other projects of ICZM that the central government is undertaking for sustainable development of coastal regions, striving for the globally recognised and coveted eco-label 'Blue Flag', it said. A flag hoisting program was conducted simultaneously at these eight beaches virtually by the ministry and physically at the beaches by respective states/UTs through its MLAs and/or Chairman of Beach Management Committees, the ministry said. Speaking on the occasion, Union Environment Secretary R P Gupta said high standards are being maintained to clean the beaches to keep the environment safe and in the next four to five years, 100 more beaches will be cleaned. In a video message, World Bank's country director Zunaid Khan applauded India's efforts towards cleaning up its beaches and said India with its strategies for sustainable coastal zone management shall act as a lighthouse for other countries in the region, the ministry said in a statement. Elaborating on BEAMS, the ministry said, its objective is to abate pollution in coastal waters, promote sustainable development of beach facilities, protect and conserve coastal ecosystems and natural resources, and seriously challenge local authorities and stakeholders to strive and maintain high standards of cleanliness, hygiene and safety for beachgoers in accordance with coastal environment and regulations.

Eight Indian beaches recommended for coveted 'Blue Flag' certification: Javadekar

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday extended greetings to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on his 70th birthday and lauded his contribution to the strengthening of strategic partnership between India and Russia.

Modi expressed his warm appreciation for the gesture.

During the telephonic conversation, Modi thanked Putin for his personal commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with India, and said that he looked forward to welcoming President Putin in India for the next bilateral summit at a mutually convenient date.

Both leaders reiterated their strong commitment to further strengthen the 'Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership' between India and Russia, and expressed appreciation for the continued momentum in bilateral interactions despite the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

In this context, they referred to the recent productive visits to Moscow by Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar.

PM Modi thanked Putin for the successful Russian Chairmanship of the SCO and BRICS this year. He conveyed his eagerness to participate in the forthcoming SCO and BRICS Summit later this year, as well as the Council of SCO Heads of Government to be hosted by India.

Prime Minister Modi, born on September 17 in 1950, turned 70 on Thursday.

Putin even wrote Modi a letter wishing him on his birthday.

In the letter to Modi, Putin said, “Kindly accept my heartfelt congratulations on your 70th birth anniversary.”

Praising Modi, Putin said his activity as India’s head of the government has earned him the well-deserved respect of compatriots and high international prestige. “Under your leadership India is successfully moving along the path of socio-economic, scientific and technical development,” he said.

“It is hard to overestimate your personal contribution to the strengthening of the special and privileged strategic partnership between our countries,” Putin noted in the letter uploaded on the website of the Russian Embassy in New Delhi.

The president said he values the kind, friendly relations that have developed between him and Modi.

“I look forward to continue constructive dialogue with you and work closely together on topical issues of the bilateral and international agenda. From the bottom of my heart, I wish you good health, happiness, well-being and every success,” he said.

(with inputs)

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday extended greetings to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on his 70th birthday and lauded his contribution to the strengthening of strategic partnership between India and Russia.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday extended greetings to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on his 70th birthday and lauded his contribution to the strengthening of strategic partnership between India and Russia. Modi expressed his warm appreciation for the gesture. During the telephonic conversation, Modi thanked Putin for his personal commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with India, and said that he looked forward to welcoming President Putin in India for the next bilateral summit at a mutually convenient date. Both leaders reiterated their strong commitment to further strengthen the 'Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership' between India and Russia, and expressed appreciation for the continued momentum in bilateral interactions despite the COVID-19 pandemic. In this context, they referred to the recent productive visits to Moscow by Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar. PM Modi thanked Putin for the successful Russian Chairmanship of the SCO and BRICS this year. He conveyed his eagerness to participate in the forthcoming SCO and BRICS Summit later this year, as well as the Council of SCO Heads of Government to be hosted by India. Prime Minister Modi, born on September 17 in 1950, turned 70 on Thursday. Putin even wrote Modi a letter wishing him on his birthday. In the letter to Modi, Putin said, “Kindly accept my heartfelt congratulations on your 70th birth anniversary.” Praising Modi, Putin said his activity as India’s head of the government has earned him the well-deserved respect of compatriots and high international prestige. “Under your leadership India is successfully moving along the path of socio-economic, scientific and technical development,” he said. “It is hard to overestimate your personal contribution to the strengthening of the special and privileged strategic partnership between our countries,” Putin noted in the letter uploaded on the website of the Russian Embassy in New Delhi. The president said he values the kind, friendly relations that have developed between him and Modi. “I look forward to continue constructive dialogue with you and work closely together on topical issues of the bilateral and international agenda. From the bottom of my heart, I wish you good health, happiness, well-being and every success,” he said. (with inputs)

PM Modi, Putin reiterate commitment to further strengthen India-Russia ties in telephonic conversation

By Lakmina Jesmin Soma/ Sidhant Sibbal

India has allowed the export of around 25,000 tonnes of onions to Bangladesh on an emergency basis even as its export ban comes into effect. A source of High Commission of Bangladesh in New Delhi and High Commission of India in Dhaka confirmed the development.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/onion-prices-shoot-up-in-bangladesh-after-india-announces-export-ban-328184">Also Read:&nbsp;Onion prices shoot up in Bangladesh after India announces export ban</a>

An Indian government source said, "India has allowed export of around 25,000 MT of onions to Bangladesh which is already under transit/ processed for exports." adding, it is a "special gesture to our close friend".

India had announced onion export ban earlier this month. It majorly impacts neighbourhood and particularly Bangladesh. Around 250 trucks of onions have been stuck on various roads in India waiting to enter Bangladesh.

Meanwhile, a source of in the ministry of foreign affairs of Bangladesh MOFA told WION that Bangladesh High Commissioner to India Muhammad Imran on Friday informed foreign minister AK Abdul Momen about India's permission to export onions to Bangladesh.

Kolkata has 20089.31MT of onions already approved for exports before the ban was announced. It is the largest in any port/area of the country followed by Mumbai, Trichy and Nagpur.

Bangladesh had earlier raised the onion crisis with the Indian government after the ban was announced.

By Lakmina Jesmin Soma/ Sidhant Sibbal India has allowed the export of around 25,000 tonnes of onions to Bangladesh on an emergency basis even as its export ban comes into effect.

By Lakmina Jesmin Soma/ Sidhant Sibbal India has allowed the export of around 25,000 tonnes of onions to Bangladesh on an emergency basis even as its export ban comes into effect. A source of High Commission of Bangladesh in New Delhi and High Commission of India in Dhaka confirmed the development. Also Read: Onion prices shoot up in Bangladesh after India announces export ban An Indian government source said, "India has allowed export of around 25,000 MT of onions to Bangladesh which is already under transit/ processed for exports." adding, it is a "special gesture to our close friend". India had announced onion export ban earlier this month. It majorly impacts neighbourhood and particularly Bangladesh. Around 250 trucks of onions have been stuck on various roads in India waiting to enter Bangladesh. Meanwhile, a source of in the ministry of foreign affairs of Bangladesh MOFA told WION that Bangladesh High Commissioner to India Muhammad Imran on Friday informed foreign minister AK Abdul Momen about India's permission to export onions to Bangladesh. Kolkata has 20089.31MT of onions already approved for exports before the ban was announced. It is the largest in any port/area of the country followed by Mumbai, Trichy and Nagpur. Bangladesh had earlier raised the onion crisis with the Indian government after the ban was announced.

'Special gesture': India allows 25k tonnes of onions to Bangladesh

With nearly 100,000 fresh cases in the last 24 hours, the total coronavirus infections in the country rose over 5.2 million on Friday.&nbsp;

According to the latest updates by the health ministry, there were 96,424 new confirmed cases, taking the total count to 5,214,678. Also, the death toll jumped to 84,372 with 1,174 new fatalities.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-has-dragged-150-million-more-children-into-poverty-unicef-328144">Coronavirus has dragged 150 million more children into poverty: Unicef</a>

Since early August, India is recording the highest single-day cases and is now on course in terms of the number of infections to cross the worst-hit US.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/33-delhiites-exposed-to-coronavirus-have-covid-antibodies-latest-sero-survey-328105">33% Delhiites exposed to coronavirus, have Covid antibodies: Latest sero survey</a>

However, at 1.62 per cent, the fatality rate in the country is comparatively low.&nbsp;

Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan on Thursday told the Parliament that India's mortality rate is the lowest in the world and the country aims to bring it down to less than one per cent.&nbsp;

On Thursday, the health ministry said that only three states of Maharashtra, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh account to 48.5 per cent of the active cases in the country. And if states of Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu are taken, this per cent rises to 60 per cent.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the total number of cases across the globe have gone past 30 million and 944, 877 people have died of Covid-19, according to the tally by John Hopkins University.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

With nearly 100,000 fresh cases in the last 24 hours, the total coronavirus infections in the country rose over 5.2 million on Friday. According to the latest updates by the health ministry, there were 96,424 new confirmed cases, taking the total count to 5,214,678.

With nearly 100,000 fresh cases in the last 24 hours, the total coronavirus infections in the country rose over 5.2 million on Friday. According to the latest updates by the health ministry, there were 96,424 new confirmed cases, taking the total count to 5,214,678. Also, the death toll jumped to 84,372 with 1,174 new fatalities. Also read | Coronavirus has dragged 150 million more children into poverty: Unicef Since early August, India is recording the highest single-day cases and is now on course in terms of the number of infections to cross the worst-hit US. Also read | 33% Delhiites exposed to coronavirus, have Covid antibodies: Latest sero survey However, at 1.62 per cent, the fatality rate in the country is comparatively low. Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan on Thursday told the Parliament that India's mortality rate is the lowest in the world and the country aims to bring it down to less than one per cent. On Thursday, the health ministry said that only three states of Maharashtra, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh account to 48.5 per cent of the active cases in the country. And if states of Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu are taken, this per cent rises to 60 per cent. Meanwhile, the total number of cases across the globe have gone past 30 million and 944, 877 people have died of Covid-19, according to the tally by John Hopkins University.

India confirms nearly 100,000 coronavirus cases in last 24 hours; total cases jump to 5.2 million

Online payment platform Paytm was back in Google Play Store on Friday evening after having been removed for 'violating policies'. The app returned within some hours of its removal from the Google Play Store. &nbsp;

Removal of Paytm from the Play Store hit headlines everywhere on Friday afternoon.&nbsp;

"We don`t allow online casinos or support any unregulated gambling apps that facilitate sports betting. This includes if an app leads consumers to an external website that allows them to participate in paid tournaments to win real money or cash prizes, it is a violation of our policies," Suzanne Frey, Vice President, Product, Android Security and Privacy at Google said on a blog post.

However, the blog post did not explicitly mention Paytm. Reuters reported that Google separately confirmed that the removal of Paytm was indeed for policy violation.

The news made waves everywhere. During the day, Paytm took to Twitter to assure its users that their money was safe.

"Dear Paytm'ers, Paytm Android app is temporarily unavailable on Google's Play Store for new downloads or updates. It will be back very soon. All your money is completely safe, and you can continue to enjoy your Paytm app as normal," tweeted Paytm

"The company had not breached Google policies but was running an offer that gave its users stickers, for payments and money transfers, which could then be used to redeem cashbacks - a move Google deemed as gambling," the Paytm spokesman told Reuters.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/paytm-app-removed-from-google-play-store-is-alleged-violation-of-guidelines-the-reason-328389">Paytm app removed from Google Play Store. Is alleged violation of guidelines the reason?</a>

There has not been any statement so far from Google outlining in detail&nbsp;the way Paytm violated the policies of Play Store.

Around 7 pm on Friday evening, Paytm tweeted suggesting that the app was back in the Play Store.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Update: And we're back! 🥳
— Paytm (@Paytm) <a href="https://twitter.com/Paytm/status/1306950821217816576?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Paytm was launched about a decade ago. It got a filip after a tie-up with Uber and a major boost after demonetisation in India in the year 2016. Paytm got the benefit of its early start as Indians suddenly had to move to online payments after currency notes of Rs 500 and Rs 1000 were taken out of circulation.

(With agency inputs) 
&nbsp;

Online payment platform Paytm was back in Google Play Store on Friday evening after having been removed for 'violating policies'. The app returned within some hours of its removal from the Google Play Store.

Online payment platform Paytm was back in Google Play Store on Friday evening after having been removed for 'violating policies'. The app returned within some hours of its removal from the Google Play Store. Removal of Paytm from the Play Store hit headlines everywhere on Friday afternoon. "We don`t allow online casinos or support any unregulated gambling apps that facilitate sports betting. This includes if an app leads consumers to an external website that allows them to participate in paid tournaments to win real money or cash prizes, it is a violation of our policies," Suzanne Frey, Vice President, Product, Android Security and Privacy at Google said on a blog post. However, the blog post did not explicitly mention Paytm. Reuters reported that Google separately confirmed that the removal of Paytm was indeed for policy violation. The news made waves everywhere. During the day, Paytm took to Twitter to assure its users that their money was safe. "Dear Paytm'ers, Paytm Android app is temporarily unavailable on Google's Play Store for new downloads or updates. It will be back very soon. All your money is completely safe, and you can continue to enjoy your Paytm app as normal," tweeted Paytm "The company had not breached Google policies but was running an offer that gave its users stickers, for payments and money transfers, which could then be used to redeem cashbacks - a move Google deemed as gambling," the Paytm spokesman told Reuters. Also Read | Paytm app removed from Google Play Store. Is alleged violation of guidelines the reason? There has not been any statement so far from Google outlining in detail the way Paytm violated the policies of Play Store. Around 7 pm on Friday evening, Paytm tweeted suggesting that the app was back in the Play Store. Update: And we're back! 🥳 — Paytm (@Paytm) September 18, 2020 × Paytm was launched about a decade ago. It got a filip after a tie-up with Uber and a major boost after demonetisation in India in the year 2016. Paytm got the benefit of its early start as Indians suddenly had to move to online payments after currency notes of Rs 500 and Rs 1000 were taken out of circulation. (With agency inputs)

Paytm back on Google Play Store after getting removed for 'violating policies'

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar&nbsp;on Thursday called for an expansion of the partnership between&nbsp;India and&nbsp;Japan in third countries such as&nbsp;Russia's far east and Pacific Island.

The comments&nbsp;are significant since Russian far east borders China and China has been keen to grow its engagement with Pacific Islands.

Speaking at a FICCI virtual event, he said, "one is possibility of economic cooperation in Russian far east, because India has shown much greater willingness to be involved in economic projects there and the other is pacific island countries, we have development partnership and political footprints..has grown significantly".

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi&nbsp;visited&nbsp;Vladivostok last year&nbsp;for annual India-Russia bilateral Summit and announcing a Line of Credit of USD 1 billion for development projects in the Russian Far East region. The Line of Credit (LOC) will facilitate undertaking infrastructure and other development projects.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yoshihide-suga-formally-elected-as-japans-new-prime-minister-327826">Yoshihide Suga formally elected as Japan's new prime minister</a>

India is also increasing its outreach to Pacific island countries, especially via the Forum for India-Pacific Islands cooperation or FIPIC which has India and 14 Pacific Island countries, Cook Islands, Fiji, Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Micronesia, Nauru, Niue, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Tonga, Tuvalu and Vanuatu.

Both countries already have a partnership in third world countries&nbsp;for infrastructure and project development. Joint projects are underway in Sri Lanka, and with EAM saying both are "trying to see if we can cooperate in&nbsp;Bangladesh and Myanmar."

India, Japan engage via "act east forum" which is chaired by foreign secretary of India and Japanese envoy to Delhi. It coordinates Japanese investment in India's northeast and the wider region increasing connectivity to Bangladesh and Myanmar.

Jaishankar&nbsp;called Japan as India's "most trusted partners&nbsp;and great inspiration for modernisation in Asia," saying, "we had the Maruti revolution, the metro revolution and bullet revolution in the making..because of the history of Japan, because of the strengths of Japan, it makes you more invaluable partner in our own journey to modernity".

Ties between the two&nbsp;countries have substantially increased in the last few years due to former Japanese Prime Minister Abe Shinzo and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Jaishankar&nbsp;said, India, Japan ties have turned from "narrow bilateral relation" to "landscape of interaction now broader" and signifying "maturing of relations". Adding, it is not "Delhi talking to Tokyo", the relationship has "more conversations, has substance today..and reflects the journey of last 25 years".

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Thursday called for an expansion of the partnership between India and Japan in third countries such as Russia's far east and Pacific Island.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Thursday called for an expansion of the partnership between India and Japan in third countries such as Russia's far east and Pacific Island. The comments are significant since Russian far east borders China and China has been keen to grow its engagement with Pacific Islands. Speaking at a FICCI virtual event, he said, "one is possibility of economic cooperation in Russian far east, because India has shown much greater willingness to be involved in economic projects there and the other is pacific island countries, we have development partnership and political footprints..has grown significantly". Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Vladivostok last year for annual India-Russia bilateral Summit and announcing a Line of Credit of USD 1 billion for development projects in the Russian Far East region. The Line of Credit (LOC) will facilitate undertaking infrastructure and other development projects. Also read: Yoshihide Suga formally elected as Japan's new prime minister India is also increasing its outreach to Pacific island countries, especially via the Forum for India-Pacific Islands cooperation or FIPIC which has India and 14 Pacific Island countries, Cook Islands, Fiji, Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Micronesia, Nauru, Niue, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Tonga, Tuvalu and Vanuatu. Both countries already have a partnership in third world countries for infrastructure and project development. Joint projects are underway in Sri Lanka, and with EAM saying both are "trying to see if we can cooperate in Bangladesh and Myanmar." India, Japan engage via "act east forum" which is chaired by foreign secretary of India and Japanese envoy to Delhi. It coordinates Japanese investment in India's northeast and the wider region increasing connectivity to Bangladesh and Myanmar. Jaishankar called Japan as India's "most trusted partners and great inspiration for modernisation in Asia," saying, "we had the Maruti revolution, the metro revolution and bullet revolution in the making..because of the history of Japan, because of the strengths of Japan, it makes you more invaluable partner in our own journey to modernity". Ties between the two countries have substantially increased in the last few years due to former Japanese Prime Minister Abe Shinzo and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Jaishankar said, India, Japan ties have turned from "narrow bilateral relation" to "landscape of interaction now broader" and signifying "maturing of relations". Adding, it is not "Delhi talking to Tokyo", the relationship has "more conversations, has substance today..and reflects the journey of last 25 years".

EAM Jaishankar calls for expansion of India, Japan partnership to Russia, Pacific Island

During the search, “two explosive dumps were found in two plastic tanks concealed underground,” SP Awantipora, Tahir Saleem said.

Police recover explosives, huge cache of arms in J&K's Awantipora

Constant nudges from Indian PM Narendra Modi and the Indian Government helped the country tackle the coronavirus on several fronts. India has reported over 5.2 million cases and over 82,000 deaths, making the country one of the worst-hit in the world. Watch report.

COVID-19 Pandemic: Nudges from PM Modi and Indian govt helped create herd effect

India on Friday strongly raised the matter of Pakistan taking into custody Indian fishermen and has sought immediate consular access to them.&nbsp;

Pakistan maritime security agency(PMSA) has taken into custody 56 Indian fishermen along with ten Indian boats, alleging they crossed into Pakistani waters.

The development comes amid heightened tensions between the two countries. The ties between the two countries suffered a blow after Pakistan downgraded relations with India in the aftermath of New Delhi removing special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

Earlier this year in January, twenty Indian fishermen from Andhra Pradesh were released by the Pakistan government. A number of steps have been taken by the Indian Coast Guard to guide Indian fishermen not to cross-over the perceived International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) through various community interaction programmes.

All in all, since 2014, the Indian government has been able to secure release and repatriation of 2,133 Indian prisoners, including fishermen along with 57 boats from Pakistan’s custody.

India on Friday strongly raised the matter of Pakistan taking into custody Indian fishermen and has sought immediate consular access to them. Pakistan maritime security agency(PMSA) has taken into custody 56 Indian fishermen along with ten Indian boats, alleging they crossed into Pakistani waters.

India on Friday strongly raised the matter of Pakistan taking into custody Indian fishermen and has sought immediate consular access to them. Pakistan maritime security agency(PMSA) has taken into custody 56 Indian fishermen along with ten Indian boats, alleging they crossed into Pakistani waters. The development comes amid heightened tensions between the two countries. The ties between the two countries suffered a blow after Pakistan downgraded relations with India in the aftermath of New Delhi removing special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir. Earlier this year in January, twenty Indian fishermen from Andhra Pradesh were released by the Pakistan government. A number of steps have been taken by the Indian Coast Guard to guide Indian fishermen not to cross-over the perceived International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) through various community interaction programmes. All in all, since 2014, the Indian government has been able to secure release and repatriation of 2,133 Indian prisoners, including fishermen along with 57 boats from Pakistan’s custody.

India strongly raises issue of 56 Indian fishermen taken into custody by Pakistan

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday sharply criticised opposition and its ally Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) over farm sector reform bills, saying those opposing the measures are "deceiving", "lying" to peasants. &nbsp;

Modi's remarks came after its ally SAD quit government on Thursday with the resignation of Harsimrat Kaur Badal as the union minister of the food processing industry.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sads-harsimrat-kaur-badal-resigns-from-union-cabinet-over-farm-bills-328229">SAD's Harsimrat Kaur Badal resigns from union cabinet over farm bills</a>

The three bills that were passed by the Lower House (Lok Sabha) of the Parliament on Thursday and will now be tabled in the Upper House (Rajya Sabha) has been described as "anti-farmers" by the Opposition members.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-to-inaugurate-launch-seven-urban-infra-projects-in-bihar-327433">PM Modi to inaugurate, launch seven urban infra projects in Bihar</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-to-inaugurate-launch-seven-urban-infra-projects-in-bihar-327433">"</a>There are people who had ruled the country but are now attempting to confuse the farmers on this subject. They are spreading lies about these Bills. They are propagating that the benefit of MSP will not be given to the farmers by the government. It is also being said by them that the government will not buy paddy-wheat etc from farmers. This is a lie. Farmers of the country have to be careful of these people," Modi said, at a virtual event to launch rail projects in Bihar ahead of the assembly election in the state. &nbsp;

He also accused the opposition of standing with the "middlemen", adding that these leaders "pocketed" profits from these middlemen. &nbsp;

The prime minister asserted that the government will keep purchasing produce from the farmers and is committed to supporting them with the Minimum Support Price (MSP) as it has always been.&nbsp;

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday sharply criticised opposition and its ally Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) over farm sector reform bills, saying those opposing the measures are "deceiving", "lying" to peasants.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday sharply criticised opposition and its ally Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) over farm sector reform bills, saying those opposing the measures are "deceiving", "lying" to peasants. Modi's remarks came after its ally SAD quit government on Thursday with the resignation of Harsimrat Kaur Badal as the union minister of the food processing industry. Also read | SAD's Harsimrat Kaur Badal resigns from union cabinet over farm bills The three bills that were passed by the Lower House (Lok Sabha) of the Parliament on Thursday and will now be tabled in the Upper House (Rajya Sabha) has been described as "anti-farmers" by the Opposition members. Also read | PM Modi to inaugurate, launch seven urban infra projects in Bihar "There are people who had ruled the country but are now attempting to confuse the farmers on this subject. They are spreading lies about these Bills. They are propagating that the benefit of MSP will not be given to the farmers by the government. It is also being said by them that the government will not buy paddy-wheat etc from farmers. This is a lie. Farmers of the country have to be careful of these people," Modi said, at a virtual event to launch rail projects in Bihar ahead of the assembly election in the state. He also accused the opposition of standing with the "middlemen", adding that these leaders "pocketed" profits from these middlemen. The prime minister asserted that the government will keep purchasing produce from the farmers and is committed to supporting them with the Minimum Support Price (MSP) as it has always been.

They are 'lying', 'deceiving' peasants: PM Modi slams opposition over agri bills

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