Fairfax may tap IDBI bank’s excess capital to help fund ₹52,878 crore buyout

Ohio Senate seat JD Vance vacated for vice presidency flips to Democrats as Sherrod Brown defeats Husted

WPL 2027 Schedule: RCB to face MI in opener as Vadodara and Mumbai confirmed as venues

The rise of Africa's drug kingpin 'Chubby Jos'

‘Dialled wrong number in season of dharna, go protest’: CJI’s quip on plea seeking rotation of SC-ST reserved seats

Who is Abdul El-Sayed’s wife Sarah Jukaku and what is her Indian connection?

US stocks rally as Dow surges 1,569 points after Democratic midterms sweep; biggest post-midterm gain in 44 years

Florida shooting: Two dead, including suspect, after gunfire at Citibank's Tampa-area complex

First handshake? Radio signal with all hallmarks of alien technology detected in China

Trump's 'best guy' Pete Hegseth on the chopping block? Why Republicans are now turning against him after midterms disaster

Trump has meltdown on Truth Social, vows to become ‘Political Pundit’

‘Iran handed Trump political defeat after strategic ones,’ says security chief Mohsen Rezaei

Ashwin shares reasons for Bhuvneshwar's struggle in NZ T20Is, says his 'chapter is maybe closed'

US Midterms 2026: Abdul El-Sayed wins Michigan race, becomes first Muslim American to be elected to US Senate

US Midterms 2026: Pooja Sethi defeats bigotry, makes history as first Hindu, Indian-American woman elected to Texas Legislature

US midterms: What went wrong for Trump? | Gravitas

US midterm elections: Donald Trump enters 'lame-duck presidency' era. What does it mean?

Iran exempts ships from India, China, Iraq, and Qatar from Strait of Hormuz restrictions

Keran Heritage Centre to give new impetus to border tourism in North Kashmir

Did aliens just send earth a signal? China detects mystery radio pulse from 238 light-years away

NASA invites people to fly their names to Saturn's moon, Titan, aboard Dragonfly

Spate of similar deaths raises alarm over heart health in children

"That run-out by Rohit changed the momentum": Gill reflects on India's 5-wicket win in 1st ODI vs NZ

Mahadev app co-founder Ravi Uppal arrested in Dubai days after kingpin Sourabh Chandrakar’s extradition

'Habibi, there's a delicious irony': What the word Abdul El-Sayed used on JD Vance actually means | US Midterms 2026

Doomsday warning? Why governments are warning people to stockpile emergency supplies for 72 hours

Drugs on the ballot: Did American voters back marijuana legalisation in 2026 US midterms?

'I was one of his child victims': Former Miss Teen USA contestant Larissa Portnoff accuses Trump of sexual abuse in viral video | WATCH

Israel's Ra'am party backs Gadi Eisenkot to lead next government after meeting with Herzog

US midterm elections: Major Republican upsets, historic firsts and an unexpected India connection | Gravitas

Indian Army marks Battle of Shalateng Day with veterans’ rally, educational outreach at Sharifabad

US Midterms: After Senate, House win, can Democrats force Trump to stop Iran war? Answer may surprise you

From Texas to South Carolina: How Democrats stormed Republican strongholds to redraw America's political map in US midterms 2026

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry announce first overseas engagement after UK return: Report

How 'Mitra', a robot became friend of patients, kin in times of Covid-19

India on Friday reported 96,424 new cases of the coronavirus disease – a global record high – taking the cumulative tally past 5.21 million mark.

India becomes second nation after US to record 5 Million plus cases

Schools in Meghalaya which are shut for six months due to the COVID-19 pandemic will partially reopen from next week for students to meet teachers to clarify their doubts, Education minister Lahkmen Rymbui said on Friday.

The schools will be open for students of class 9 to 12 to meet teachers to clear their doubts but there will be no regular classes and no classroom session, he said.

"Schools will be partially opened up from September 21 for students to come and meet their teachers and clarify doubts on subjects they find it difficult. There will be no regular classes and no classroom sessions," Rymbui told PTI.

The guidelines for reopening of schools have been issued on Thursday, he said.

The Education minister said the state government has rationalised the school curriculum for this academic year and the adjusted academic calendar for all levels in view of COVID-19 pandemic.

As per the guidelines issued by the Education Department principal secretary DP Wahlang, "regular" classroom activities in schools, colleges and other educational institutions would remain closed till September 30 across the state.

The direction from the Ministry of Home Affairs which emphasised on easing restrictions in areas outside containment areas across the country, has also been taken into consideration.

"Regular class activities for schools, colleges, and educational institutions will continue to remain closed up to September, 30," Wahlang said in the order.

Students who intend to attend the teacher-student counselling would have to get the written consent of their parents or guardians to visit the schools and educational institutions.

Schools should have flexibility in school timings, students visit and uniform code and ensure short duration visit of students, the notification said.

Elementary school teachers are to attend schools as per their roster duty chart developed by the school for compulsory transaction of daily or weekly lessons plans or worksheet accordingly via online or through parental distribution at the school campus, Wahlang said.

Schools have been asked to develop individual micro planning relating to flexibility in school timings, the scheduling of students visit and uniform code, he said.

The notification said that all schools should prepare a Continuous Learning Plan (CLP) to ensure all students are learning, continue online or distance learning modes and develop a 50 per cent attendance of teaching and non-teaching staff.

The department has laid strict emphasis on compliance of health protocols, such as maintaining physical distance, wearing masks, washing hands with soap and alcohol-based hand sanitisers and sanitising all teaching materials.

 
&nbsp;

Schools in Meghalaya which are shut for six months due to the COVID-19 pandemic will partially reopen from next week for students to meet teachers to clarify their doubts, Education minister Lahkmen Rymbui said on Friday.

Schools in Meghalaya which are shut for six months due to the COVID-19 pandemic will partially reopen from next week for students to meet teachers to clarify their doubts, Education minister Lahkmen Rymbui said on Friday. The schools will be open for students of class 9 to 12 to meet teachers to clear their doubts but there will be no regular classes and no classroom session, he said. "Schools will be partially opened up from September 21 for students to come and meet their teachers and clarify doubts on subjects they find it difficult. There will be no regular classes and no classroom sessions," Rymbui told PTI. The guidelines for reopening of schools have been issued on Thursday, he said. The Education minister said the state government has rationalised the school curriculum for this academic year and the adjusted academic calendar for all levels in view of COVID-19 pandemic. As per the guidelines issued by the Education Department principal secretary DP Wahlang, "regular" classroom activities in schools, colleges and other educational institutions would remain closed till September 30 across the state. The direction from the Ministry of Home Affairs which emphasised on easing restrictions in areas outside containment areas across the country, has also been taken into consideration. "Regular class activities for schools, colleges, and educational institutions will continue to remain closed up to September, 30," Wahlang said in the order. Students who intend to attend the teacher-student counselling would have to get the written consent of their parents or guardians to visit the schools and educational institutions. Schools should have flexibility in school timings, students visit and uniform code and ensure short duration visit of students, the notification said. Elementary school teachers are to attend schools as per their roster duty chart developed by the school for compulsory transaction of daily or weekly lessons plans or worksheet accordingly via online or through parental distribution at the school campus, Wahlang said. Schools have been asked to develop individual micro planning relating to flexibility in school timings, the scheduling of students visit and uniform code, he said. The notification said that all schools should prepare a Continuous Learning Plan (CLP) to ensure all students are learning, continue online or distance learning modes and develop a 50 per cent attendance of teaching and non-teaching staff. The department has laid strict emphasis on compliance of health protocols, such as maintaining physical distance, wearing masks, washing hands with soap and alcohol-based hand sanitisers and sanitising all teaching materials.

Schools in Meghalaya to partially reopen from Sep 21

An 18-year-old Indian has been included by the United Nations in the 2020 list of young leaders who promote sustainable development goals.&nbsp;

The global body has named Udit Singhal in the 2020 Class of 17 Young Leaders for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-defeats-china-becomes-member-of-united-nations-ecosoc-327590">India defeats China, becomes member of United Nations' ECOSOC</a>

The teenager is the founder of Glass2Sand, an initiative that is based on a zero-waste ecosystem to tackle the challenge of glass waste in Delhi.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-child-mortality-rate-declined-between-1990-and-2019-united-nations-326259#:~:text=According%20to%20the%20new%20mortality%20estimates%20released%20by%20UNICEF%2C%20the,in%202019%20from%20126%20in">India's child mortality rate declined between 1990 and 2019: United Nations</a>

The Office of the Secretary-General's Envoy on Youth on Friday said Singhal's initiative has prevented empty glass bottles of getting dumped into landfills and turned it into sands, making it commercially viable.

The statement by the UN envoy also said these bottles don't decompose for a million years, referring to the significance of the teenager's work.&nbsp;

"As a Young Leader for the SDGs, I will be an active agent of change. I hope to be able to encourage communities to embrace a better civic sense to create sustainable living spaces like when mountain-high landfills are detonated," Singhal said in the statement, reported news agency PTI.&nbsp;

The website of this teenager says that he started the project in late 2018 when the demand for glass bottles dropped considerably because of the requirement of large storage spaces and huge transporting cost.&nbsp;

It adds that Singhal's initiative helped in preventing 8,000 bottles from going into landfills and produced 4,815 kilograms of high-grade silica sand.

An 18-year-old Indian has been included by the United Nations in the 2020 list of young leaders who promote sustainable development goals. The global body has named Udit Singhal in the 2020 Class of 17 Young Leaders for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

An 18-year-old Indian has been included by the United Nations in the 2020 list of young leaders who promote sustainable development goals. The global body has named Udit Singhal in the 2020 Class of 17 Young Leaders for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Also read | India defeats China, becomes member of United Nations' ECOSOC The teenager is the founder of Glass2Sand, an initiative that is based on a zero-waste ecosystem to tackle the challenge of glass waste in Delhi. Also read | India's child mortality rate declined between 1990 and 2019: United Nations The Office of the Secretary-General's Envoy on Youth on Friday said Singhal's initiative has prevented empty glass bottles of getting dumped into landfills and turned it into sands, making it commercially viable. The statement by the UN envoy also said these bottles don't decompose for a million years, referring to the significance of the teenager's work. "As a Young Leader for the SDGs, I will be an active agent of change. I hope to be able to encourage communities to embrace a better civic sense to create sustainable living spaces like when mountain-high landfills are detonated," Singhal said in the statement, reported news agency PTI. The website of this teenager says that he started the project in late 2018 when the demand for glass bottles dropped considerably because of the requirement of large storage spaces and huge transporting cost. It adds that Singhal's initiative helped in preventing 8,000 bottles from going into landfills and produced 4,815 kilograms of high-grade silica sand.

Indian teenager named in UN's 2020 list of Young Leaders for Sustainable Goals

The impact of Abraham Accords and normalisation of ties between Israel -- with United Arab Emirates and Bahrain -- will be seen on both India and Pakistan. For India, it is a good news -- as it has close ties ties will all three countries.

To this end, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson said, "We have followed the Abraham Accords signed in Washington DC by UAE, Bahrain, Israel and the US. India has always supported peace and stability in West Asia which is our extended neighbourhood. As such, we welcome these agreements for normalisation of relations between Israel and UAE and Bahrain."

"We also continue our traditional support for the Palestinian cause and hope for early resumption of direct negotiations for an acceptable two-state solution," he added.

The first signs of realignment in the Arab world were seen during the Islamic Conference held at Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia in December 2019. This event saw the participation of leaders from Turkey, Iran and Qatar as well as representatives from other Muslim countries of the region.

Saudi Arabia, de facto leader of the Muslim world and Pakistan, heavily dependent on its largesse, were conspicuous by their absence. This led to speculation that Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, wanted to project his country as an alternate power centre of the Ummah and reclaim the erstwhile Caliphate. &nbsp;

This development perhaps catalysed Israel and UAE to sign a historic deal in August 2020 and establish full diplomatic relations. Similar deals also exist between Israel and two other Arab countries, Egypt and Jordan.

Further, reports have also surfaced suggesting diplomatic and intelligence co-operation between Israel and Saudi Arabia, possibly to counter the common threat of Iran and the rising stature of Turkey in the Ummah.&nbsp;

And then, it's the China angle to West Asian politics. A recently publicised document revealed that China and Iran may be considering the conclusion of a 25-year Strategic Partnership deal.

This deal would guarantee energy supply from Iran to China at cheap rates, while Iran would benefit from billions of dollars of Chinese investment to overcome crippling economic sanction imposed by the US after it withdrew from the Iran Nuclear Deal in 2018.

These developments are likely to lead to a realignment in West Asia with Turkey, Iran and Qatar forming one group and Saudi Arabia, UAE, Jordan, Egypt and Israel forming the other group.

The Chinese have interests in both groups but can be expected to invest in connecting Turkey's 'Middle Corridor' with its own Silk Route and also get Iran onboard in the BRI--Belt and road initative.

The result of the forthcoming presidential election in the US would influence Iran's stance. If President Trump is re-elected in end 2020, Iran would be left with no choice but to partner with Beijing, else it could look at re-implementing the Iran Nuclear Deal of 2015 with the newly-elected Democratic Party Administration. That would put the lid on Chinese aspirations in Iran.

Imran Khan's Pakistan has so far played a tight rope between the two groupings.

In July 2020, China signed a $1.5 billion contract with Pakistan for construction of the Azad Pattan and Kohala hydro-electric power projects in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir. &nbsp;

As part of the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), China is likely to invest about USD 62 Billion in Pakistan over 15 years. &nbsp;

It is common knowledge that Gwadar is being developed as a dual-use port to ensure that China has a permanent military base at the mouth of the Persian Gulf, just as it has in the Gulf of Aden at Djibouti. &nbsp;

With Turkey and possibly Iran likely to be important hubs in the Silk Route, Pakistan has no option but to remain engaged with this particular Arab group. In this grouping, Qatar, whose diplomatic relations with Saudi Arabia, UAE, Bahrain and Egypt have been severed since June 2017, is a natural partner and financer. &nbsp;

However, it will have to be seen how China engages with Turkey, Iran and Pakistan in the name of BRI, to expand its global footprint.&nbsp;

In that case, Imran Khan's Pakistan cannot think of taking sides against the oil rich Saudi Arabia -- which has agreed to commit $20 billion to create sustainable projects in Pakistan and likely to provide good returns in future. This includes an investment of about USD 8 Billion for construction of an oil refinery at Gwadar Port. &nbsp;

UAE has also invested in this area. &nbsp;

Not playing ball with the Saudis may impact 4 million Pakistani expatriate workers in the country in favour of Indians or Bangladeshis. &nbsp;

The key question also is whether Pakistan would be able to provide adequate security to make projects in Gwadar profitable in light of the ongoing insurgency in Baluchistan. Pakistan has for long maintained that it is the only Islamic country to possess nuclear weapons and has derived considerable mileage out of it. &nbsp;

By taking sides between the two likely power blocks in the Arab world, Pakistan might inadvertently compel the other block to develop nuclear weapons of their own. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Pakistan is also slowly but surely being sucked into a financial debt trap. While being on FATF's grey list means a lost of $10 billion according to Pakistani govt information, a blacklisting will be devastating for the economy. Infact, Pakistani PM himself has warned many times blacklisting will have a devastating impact on the economy and inflation will be sky rocketing.&nbsp;

It now seems the only way out for Imran Khan to deliver on his election promise of 'rooting out corruption' and embark on a path of inclusive development in the region. &nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The impact of Abraham Accords and normalisation of ties between Israel -- with United Arab Emirates and Bahrain -- will be seen on both India and Pakistan. For India, it is a good news -- as it has close ties ties will all three countries.

The impact of Abraham Accords and normalisation of ties between Israel -- with United Arab Emirates and Bahrain -- will be seen on both India and Pakistan. For India, it is a good news -- as it has close ties ties will all three countries. To this end, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson said, "We have followed the Abraham Accords signed in Washington DC by UAE, Bahrain, Israel and the US. India has always supported peace and stability in West Asia which is our extended neighbourhood. As such, we welcome these agreements for normalisation of relations between Israel and UAE and Bahrain." "We also continue our traditional support for the Palestinian cause and hope for early resumption of direct negotiations for an acceptable two-state solution," he added. The first signs of realignment in the Arab world were seen during the Islamic Conference held at Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia in December 2019. This event saw the participation of leaders from Turkey, Iran and Qatar as well as representatives from other Muslim countries of the region. Saudi Arabia, de facto leader of the Muslim world and Pakistan, heavily dependent on its largesse, were conspicuous by their absence. This led to speculation that Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, wanted to project his country as an alternate power centre of the Ummah and reclaim the erstwhile Caliphate. This development perhaps catalysed Israel and UAE to sign a historic deal in August 2020 and establish full diplomatic relations. Similar deals also exist between Israel and two other Arab countries, Egypt and Jordan. Further, reports have also surfaced suggesting diplomatic and intelligence co-operation between Israel and Saudi Arabia, possibly to counter the common threat of Iran and the rising stature of Turkey in the Ummah. And then, it's the China angle to West Asian politics. A recently publicised document revealed that China and Iran may be considering the conclusion of a 25-year Strategic Partnership deal. This deal would guarantee energy supply from Iran to China at cheap rates, while Iran would benefit from billions of dollars of Chinese investment to overcome crippling economic sanction imposed by the US after it withdrew from the Iran Nuclear Deal in 2018. These developments are likely to lead to a realignment in West Asia with Turkey, Iran and Qatar forming one group and Saudi Arabia, UAE, Jordan, Egypt and Israel forming the other group. The Chinese have interests in both groups but can be expected to invest in connecting Turkey's 'Middle Corridor' with its own Silk Route and also get Iran onboard in the BRI--Belt and road initative. The result of the forthcoming presidential election in the US would influence Iran's stance. If President Trump is re-elected in end 2020, Iran would be left with no choice but to partner with Beijing, else it could look at re-implementing the Iran Nuclear Deal of 2015 with the newly-elected Democratic Party Administration. That would put the lid on Chinese aspirations in Iran. Imran Khan's Pakistan has so far played a tight rope between the two groupings. In July 2020, China signed a $1.5 billion contract with Pakistan for construction of the Azad Pattan and Kohala hydro-electric power projects in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir. As part of the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), China is likely to invest about USD 62 Billion in Pakistan over 15 years. It is common knowledge that Gwadar is being developed as a dual-use port to ensure that China has a permanent military base at the mouth of the Persian Gulf, just as it has in the Gulf of Aden at Djibouti. With Turkey and possibly Iran likely to be important hubs in the Silk Route, Pakistan has no option but to remain engaged with this particular Arab group. In this grouping, Qatar, whose diplomatic relations with Saudi Arabia, UAE, Bahrain and Egypt have been severed since June 2017, is a natural partner and financer. However, it will have to be seen how China engages with Turkey, Iran and Pakistan in the name of BRI, to expand its global footprint. In that case, Imran Khan's Pakistan cannot think of taking sides against the oil rich Saudi Arabia -- which has agreed to commit $20 billion to create sustainable projects in Pakistan and likely to provide good returns in future. This includes an investment of about USD 8 Billion for construction of an oil refinery at Gwadar Port. UAE has also invested in this area. Not playing ball with the Saudis may impact 4 million Pakistani expatriate workers in the country in favour of Indians or Bangladeshis. The key question also is whether Pakistan would be able to provide adequate security to make projects in Gwadar profitable in light of the ongoing insurgency in Baluchistan. Pakistan has for long maintained that it is the only Islamic country to possess nuclear weapons and has derived considerable mileage out of it. By taking sides between the two likely power blocks in the Arab world, Pakistan might inadvertently compel the other block to develop nuclear weapons of their own. Pakistan is also slowly but surely being sucked into a financial debt trap. While being on FATF's grey list means a lost of $10 billion according to Pakistani govt information, a blacklisting will be devastating for the economy. Infact, Pakistani PM himself has warned many times blacklisting will have a devastating impact on the economy and inflation will be sky rocketing. It now seems the only way out for Imran Khan to deliver on his election promise of 'rooting out corruption' and embark on a path of inclusive development in the region.

Decoding the impact of Abraham Accords on Indian subcontinent

Harsimrat Badal walked out of Lok Sabha this evening when the House was taking up discussion on the Farmers’ Produce Trade and Commerce (Promotion and Facilitation) Bill, 2020,

Indian lawmaker Harsimrat Badal resigns from Union Cabinet in protest against farm Bills

Antibodies against COVID-19 infection have been found in 33% of people in the latest sero-prevalence survey in the national capital.

The figure was released after the preliminary analysis of the third survey of 17,000 samples.

The third serological survey, which collected samples from all 11 districts in the national capital, suggested that the prevalence of antibodies for COVID-19 went up from 29.1 per cent to around 33 per cent between August and September.

A sero prevalence survey uses serology tests to determine the number of people in a population or community who have antibodies against an infectious disease.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, India's COVID-19 tally of cases galloped past 51 lakh with a spike of 97,894 new cases and 1,132 deaths in last 24 hours.

The total coronavirus cases mounted to 51,18,254 including 10,09,976 active cases, 40,25,080 cured/discharged/migrated and 83,198 deaths, according to Union Ministry of Health data.

India on Wednesday became only the second country in the world, after the United States, to record more than 5 million cases.

(With inputs from agencies)

Antibodies against COVID-19 infection have been found in 33% of people in the latest sero-prevalence survey in the national capital. The figure was released after the preliminary analysis of the third survey of 17,000 samples.

Antibodies against COVID-19 infection have been found in 33% of people in the latest sero-prevalence survey in the national capital. The figure was released after the preliminary analysis of the third survey of 17,000 samples. The third serological survey, which collected samples from all 11 districts in the national capital, suggested that the prevalence of antibodies for COVID-19 went up from 29.1 per cent to around 33 per cent between August and September. A sero prevalence survey uses serology tests to determine the number of people in a population or community who have antibodies against an infectious disease. Meanwhile, India's COVID-19 tally of cases galloped past 51 lakh with a spike of 97,894 new cases and 1,132 deaths in last 24 hours. The total coronavirus cases mounted to 51,18,254 including 10,09,976 active cases, 40,25,080 cured/discharged/migrated and 83,198 deaths, according to Union Ministry of Health data. India on Wednesday became only the second country in the world, after the United States, to record more than 5 million cases. (With inputs from agencies)

33% Delhiites exposed to coronavirus, have Covid antibodies: Latest sero survey

Bengalis settled in various countries are taking online lessons to perform Durga Puja rituals themselves as the COVID-19 outbreak has forced priests from West Bengal to cancel their international travel plans.

Several priests from the state used to make annual journeys to countries from the United States to Japan to perform Durga Puja rituals for Bengalis settled there.

However, the coronavirus outbreak has changed the situation.

On being requested by several Bengalis settled abroad, an organisation, Sarva Bharatiya Prachya Vidya Academy, has decided to conduct online training sessions for Brahmins on September 27 and October 4, its founder Jayanta Kushari said on Wednesday.

They will be trained to perform 'yagna', 'ghot puja' (worshipping an urn symbolising the goddess) and other rituals of Durga Puja, he said.

"The COVID-19 outbreak has restricted our movement but Durga Puja cannot wait. After being requested by friends in India and abroad, we decided to conduct digital workshops where all puja rituals will be taught," Kushari told PTI.

The workshops will be held at a time convenient for all participants across different time zones, he said.

The organisation has been conducting workshops for people willing to work as priests apart from their regular jobs.

It had last month conducted a similar online session for 175 people in front of the semi-finished Durga idol at Shobhabazar Rajbari in north Kolkata.

"More people can attend online sessions than in physical workshops in the present scenario. This might be the norm even in post-COVID times," Kushari said.

Kolkata-based priest Srikanto Chakraborty said he is looking for offers from puja committees across the state after his regular London-based client informed him they are not organising Durga Puja this year.

Bengalis settled in various countries are taking online lessons to perform Durga Puja rituals themselves as the COVID-19 outbreak has forced priests from West Bengal to cancel their international travel plans.

Bengalis settled in various countries are taking online lessons to perform Durga Puja rituals themselves as the COVID-19 outbreak has forced priests from West Bengal to cancel their international travel plans. Several priests from the state used to make annual journeys to countries from the United States to Japan to perform Durga Puja rituals for Bengalis settled there. However, the coronavirus outbreak has changed the situation. On being requested by several Bengalis settled abroad, an organisation, Sarva Bharatiya Prachya Vidya Academy, has decided to conduct online training sessions for Brahmins on September 27 and October 4, its founder Jayanta Kushari said on Wednesday. They will be trained to perform 'yagna', 'ghot puja' (worshipping an urn symbolising the goddess) and other rituals of Durga Puja, he said. "The COVID-19 outbreak has restricted our movement but Durga Puja cannot wait. After being requested by friends in India and abroad, we decided to conduct digital workshops where all puja rituals will be taught," Kushari told PTI. The workshops will be held at a time convenient for all participants across different time zones, he said. The organisation has been conducting workshops for people willing to work as priests apart from their regular jobs. It had last month conducted a similar online session for 175 people in front of the semi-finished Durga idol at Shobhabazar Rajbari in north Kolkata. "More people can attend online sessions than in physical workshops in the present scenario. This might be the norm even in post-COVID times," Kushari said. Kolkata-based priest Srikanto Chakraborty said he is looking for offers from puja committees across the state after his regular London-based client informed him they are not organising Durga Puja this year.

COVID-19 forces Bengalis settled abroad to learn Durga Puja rituals online

India's Defence Minister Rajnath Singh today said that China has illegally occupied 38,000 sq km of India's territory in Ladakh, while Pakistan illegally gave away 5,180 square kilometres of PoK's area to Beijing citing the so-called '1963 boundary agreement.

Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on India-China border standoff

India's COVID-19 tally of cases galloped past 51 lakh with a spike of 97,894 new cases and 1,132 deaths in last 24 hours.

The total coronavirus cases mounted to 51,18,254 including 10,09,976 active cases, 40,25,080 cured/discharged/migrated and 83,198 deaths, according to Union Ministry of Health data.

Meanwhile, India on Wednesday became only the second country in the world, after the United States, to record more than 5 million cases.

The south Asian nation, the world's second-most populous country, has been reporting more new daily cases than the United States since mid-August and accounts for just over 16% of globally known cases.

The deadly Covid-19 across the world has now infected more than 29 million people and the numbers are expected to pass 30 million, with 9.39 lakh people succumbing to the virus that was first reported in late December 2019.

(With inputs from agencies)

India's COVID-19 tally of cases galloped past 51 lakh with a spike of 97,894 new cases and 1,132 deaths in last 24 hours. The total coronavirus cases mounted to 51,18,254 including 10,09,976 active cases, 40,25,080 cured/discharged/migrated and 83,198 deaths, according to Union Ministry of Health data.

India's COVID-19 tally of cases galloped past 51 lakh with a spike of 97,894 new cases and 1,132 deaths in last 24 hours. The total coronavirus cases mounted to 51,18,254 including 10,09,976 active cases, 40,25,080 cured/discharged/migrated and 83,198 deaths, according to Union Ministry of Health data. Meanwhile, India on Wednesday became only the second country in the world, after the United States, to record more than 5 million cases. The south Asian nation, the world's second-most populous country, has been reporting more new daily cases than the United States since mid-August and accounts for just over 16% of globally known cases. The deadly Covid-19 across the world has now infected more than 29 million people and the numbers are expected to pass 30 million, with 9.39 lakh people succumbing to the virus that was first reported in late December 2019. (With inputs from agencies)

India tally crosses 51-lakh mark with spike of 97,894 new cases

India on Thursday welcomed the signing of agreements by the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain to establish formal ties with Israel, and said it has always supported peace and stability in West Asia.

The UAE and Bahrain became the first Arab countries to normalise ties with Israel without a resolution of its decades-old dispute with the Palestinians who are demanding a separate state.

"We have followed the Abraham accords signed in Washington DC by UAE, Bahrain, Israel and the US. As I have said earlier, India has always supported peace and stability in West Asia which is our extended neighbourhood," External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said.

The pacts were inked on Tuesday in Washington in the presence of US President Donald Trump.

"As such we welcome these agreements for normalization of relations between Israel and UAE and Bahrain," he added.

At a media briefing, Srivastava also said India continues its "traditional support" for the Palestinian cause, and hopes for early resumption of direct negotiations for an acceptable "two-state solution".&nbsp;

India on Thursday welcomed the signing of agreements by the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain to establish formal ties with Israel, and said it has always supported peace and stability in West Asia.

India on Thursday welcomed the signing of agreements by the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain to establish formal ties with Israel, and said it has always supported peace and stability in West Asia. The UAE and Bahrain became the first Arab countries to normalise ties with Israel without a resolution of its decades-old dispute with the Palestinians who are demanding a separate state. "We have followed the Abraham accords signed in Washington DC by UAE, Bahrain, Israel and the US. As I have said earlier, India has always supported peace and stability in West Asia which is our extended neighbourhood," External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said. The pacts were inked on Tuesday in Washington in the presence of US President Donald Trump. "As such we welcome these agreements for normalization of relations between Israel and UAE and Bahrain," he added. At a media briefing, Srivastava also said India continues its "traditional support" for the Palestinian cause, and hopes for early resumption of direct negotiations for an acceptable "two-state solution".

India welcomes pacts by UAE, Bahrain to normalise ties with Israel

Greetings poured in from all corners of the world for Prime Minister Narendra Modi who turns 70 today.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has extended greetings to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, wishing him good health, happiness, well-being and success. Putin said he values the kind, friendly relations that have developed between the two over the last few years.&nbsp;

“Kindly accept my heartfelt congratulations on your 70th birth anniversary,” he wrote.

“Under your leadership, India is successfully moving along the path of socio-economic, scientific and technical development,” he said.

Prime Minister of Nepal, K P Sharma Oli also conveyed his greetings to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on his birthday.

Oli said that the two leaders will continue to work closely together towards strengthening relations between India and Nepal.

"Warm greetings to Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji on the auspicious occasion of your birthday. I wish you good health and happiness. We will continue working closely together to further strengthen relations between our two countries," Oli said in a tweet.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Apart from the wishes, 70,000 samplings, 70 kg laddoo have been offered in a Coimbatore temple and BJP is targetting to create a million selfie videos, all to wish the Prime Minister Narendra Modi a happy 70th birthday. Narendra Modi, born on September 17, 1950, marks a personal milestone during his tenure as the Prime Minister.

(With inputs from agencies)

Greetings poured in from all corners of the world for Prime Minister Narendra Modi who turns 70 today. Russian President Vladimir Putin has extended greetings to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, wishing him good health, happiness, well-being and success.

Greetings poured in from all corners of the world for Prime Minister Narendra Modi who turns 70 today. Russian President Vladimir Putin has extended greetings to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, wishing him good health, happiness, well-being and success. Putin said he values the kind, friendly relations that have developed between the two over the last few years. “Kindly accept my heartfelt congratulations on your 70th birth anniversary,” he wrote. “Under your leadership, India is successfully moving along the path of socio-economic, scientific and technical development,” he said. Prime Minister of Nepal, K P Sharma Oli also conveyed his greetings to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on his birthday. Oli said that the two leaders will continue to work closely together towards strengthening relations between India and Nepal. "Warm greetings to Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji on the auspicious occasion of your birthday. I wish you good health and happiness. We will continue working closely together to further strengthen relations between our two countries," Oli said in a tweet. Meanwhile, Apart from the wishes, 70,000 samplings, 70 kg laddoo have been offered in a Coimbatore temple and BJP is targetting to create a million selfie videos, all to wish the Prime Minister Narendra Modi a happy 70th birthday. Narendra Modi, born on September 17, 1950, marks a personal milestone during his tenure as the Prime Minister. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Narendra Modi’s 70th birthday: Wishes pour in from world leaders

India has told the United Nations as a "leading contributor to climate action", it has reduced 38 million tonnes of carbon emissions annually.&nbsp;

In a written statement at UN Security Council, India highlighted that in the last decade "around 3 million hectares of forest and tree cover has been added" which has "enhanced the combined forest and tree cover to24.56% of the total geographical area of the country."

It listed out that India aims to "restore 26 million hectares of degraded and deforested land and achieve land-degradation neutrality by 2030" and have set "additional targets of eliminating single-use plastic by 2022 and installing 450GW of renewable energy by 2030."

India's statement was at the Open Debate on "Humanitarian Effects of Environmental Degradation and Peace security".

India also pointed out principles such as “Common But Differentiated Responsibilities” are sacrosanct when it comes to environmental protection and "steering away from these principles....attempting to discuss such issues by obfuscating those responsible for addressing them will only do a disservice to the real issue rather than make it more meaningful to address them."

India has told the United Nations as a "leading contributor to climate action", it has reduced 38 million tonnes of carbon emissions annually. In a written statement at UN Security Council, India highlighted that in the last decade "around 3 million hectares of forest and tree cover has been added" which has "enhanced the combined forest and tree cover to24.

India has told the United Nations as a "leading contributor to climate action", it has reduced 38 million tonnes of carbon emissions annually. In a written statement at UN Security Council, India highlighted that in the last decade "around 3 million hectares of forest and tree cover has been added" which has "enhanced the combined forest and tree cover to24.56% of the total geographical area of the country." It listed out that India aims to "restore 26 million hectares of degraded and deforested land and achieve land-degradation neutrality by 2030" and have set "additional targets of eliminating single-use plastic by 2022 and installing 450GW of renewable energy by 2030." India's statement was at the Open Debate on "Humanitarian Effects of Environmental Degradation and Peace security". India also pointed out principles such as “Common But Differentiated Responsibilities” are sacrosanct when it comes to environmental protection and "steering away from these principles....attempting to discuss such issues by obfuscating those responsible for addressing them will only do a disservice to the real issue rather than make it more meaningful to address them."

Reduced 38 million tonnes of carbon emissions annually, India tells UN

The firm, Zhenhua Data Information Technology Co, is a pioneer in hybrid warfare and is linked to the country’s administration.

India raises Zhenhua snooping issue with Chinese envoy

Harsimrat Kaur Badal has submitted her resignation as Union minister to the Prime Minister's Office (PMO), principal advisor to Shiromani Akali Dal president Sukhbir Singh Badal said on Thursday.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
I have resigned from Union Cabinet in protest against anti-farmer ordinances and legislation. Proud to stand with farmers as their daughter &amp; sister.
— Harsimrat Kaur Badal (@HarsimratBadal_) <a href="https://twitter.com/HarsimratBadal_/status/1306611139296460802?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 17, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Harcharan Bains, the principal advisor, said Kaur submitted her resignation soon after the party chief announced in Lok Sabha that she would quit the Union Cabinet in protest against the three farm bills, tabled in Parliament by the Centre for passage.

Kaur, the Union Minister of Food Processing Industries, is the only SAD representative in the Modi government.

Harsimrat Kaur Badal has submitted her resignation as Union minister to the Prime Minister's Office (PMO), principal advisor to Shiromani Akali Dal president Sukhbir Singh Badal said on Thursday.

Harsimrat Kaur Badal has submitted her resignation as Union minister to the Prime Minister's Office (PMO), principal advisor to Shiromani Akali Dal president Sukhbir Singh Badal said on Thursday. I have resigned from Union Cabinet in protest against anti-farmer ordinances and legislation. Proud to stand with farmers as their daughter & sister. — Harsimrat Kaur Badal (@HarsimratBadal_) September 17, 2020 × Harcharan Bains, the principal advisor, said Kaur submitted her resignation soon after the party chief announced in Lok Sabha that she would quit the Union Cabinet in protest against the three farm bills, tabled in Parliament by the Centre for passage. Kaur, the Union Minister of Food Processing Industries, is the only SAD representative in the Modi government.

SAD's Harsimrat Kaur Badal resigns from union cabinet over farm bills

Three terrorists and a civilian have been killed while a CRPF deputy commandant rank officer has been injured after an encounter erupted in the Batmaloo area of Srinagar early this morning.

Acting on information about the presence of terrorists in the congested Batmaloo area, security forces launched a cordon and search operation.&nbsp;

Sources said that a lady identified as Kounsar Riyaz was killed in the crossfire while a CRPF officer was removed to an army hospital for treatment after he received bullet injures.

IGP Kashmir range told WION that three terrorists have been killed in the encounter.&nbsp;

The identity of the slain terrorists wasn’t immediately known as the operation was still under progress.

Three terrorists and a civilian have been killed while a CRPF deputy commandant rank officer has been injured after an encounter erupted in the Batmaloo area of Srinagar early this morning.

Three terrorists and a civilian have been killed while a CRPF deputy commandant rank officer has been injured after an encounter erupted in the Batmaloo area of Srinagar early this morning. Acting on information about the presence of terrorists in the congested Batmaloo area, security forces launched a cordon and search operation. Sources said that a lady identified as Kounsar Riyaz was killed in the crossfire while a CRPF officer was removed to an army hospital for treatment after he received bullet injures. IGP Kashmir range told WION that three terrorists have been killed in the encounter. The identity of the slain terrorists wasn’t immediately known as the operation was still under progress.

Three terrorists, woman killed, CRPF officer injured in Srinagar encounter 

Pakistan on Tuesday violated Shanghai Cooperation Organization(SCO) charter and put up a map showing Kashmir as its part at the SCO National Security Advisors (NSA) meet.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-foreign-ministers-meet-in-moscow-amid-standoff-at-lac-326678">Also Read: India, China foreign ministers meet in Moscow amid standoff at LAC</a>

While India strongly objected to it, and Russia which is the Chair of the SCO for this year tried to persuade Pakistan but Islamabad remained unfazed and continued with the map as the background.&nbsp;

India's NSA Ajit Doval took a strong exception to it and left the SCO NSA virtual meet after due "consultation" from host Russia.

Ministry of external affairs in a strong response said,"Pakistani NSA deliberately projected a fictitious map that Pakistan has recently been propagating" which was in "blatant disregard to the advisory by the host against it and in violation of the norms of the meeting".&nbsp;

Explaining, "After consultation with the host, the Indian side left the meeting in protest at that juncture."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-nsa-doval-leaves-sco-meet-after-paks-provocation-328033/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Government sources told WION that "Pakistan’s use of a fictitious map as a backdrop" which depicted "sovereign Indian territories as part of Pakistan" is a "blatant violation of the SCO Charter and against all its established norms of safeguarding the sovereignty and territorial integrity of SCO member states."

SCO Charter, article 2 states,"SCO member States shall adhere to the following principles.." which includes "mutual respect of sovereignty... territorial integrity of States and inviolability of State border".

In fact, Secretary of the National Security Council of Russia Nikolai Patrushev told Pakistani side it does not support what Islamabad has done and hoped Pakistan’s "provocative act will not affect India’s participation in SCO and definitely not cast any shadow on Patrushev’s warm personal relationship for NSA for whom he has the highest regard", sources elaborated.&nbsp;

The map was the same one issued by Pakistan on the first anniversary of the removal of special status for the erstwhile state of J&amp;K.

India, Pakistan, China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan are part of the SCO grouping. Both defence minister Rajnath Singh and external affairs minister S Jaishankar visited Moscow in last two weeks to participate in SCO defence and FMs meet.

Pakistan on Tuesday violated Shanghai Cooperation Organization(SCO) charter and put up a map showing Kashmir as its part at the SCO National Security Advisors (NSA) meet.

Pakistan on Tuesday violated Shanghai Cooperation Organization(SCO) charter and put up a map showing Kashmir as its part at the SCO National Security Advisors (NSA) meet. Also Read: India, China foreign ministers meet in Moscow amid standoff at LAC While India strongly objected to it, and Russia which is the Chair of the SCO for this year tried to persuade Pakistan but Islamabad remained unfazed and continued with the map as the background. India's NSA Ajit Doval took a strong exception to it and left the SCO NSA virtual meet after due "consultation" from host Russia. Ministry of external affairs in a strong response said,"Pakistani NSA deliberately projected a fictitious map that Pakistan has recently been propagating" which was in "blatant disregard to the advisory by the host against it and in violation of the norms of the meeting". Explaining, "After consultation with the host, the Indian side left the meeting in protest at that juncture." × Government sources told WION that "Pakistan’s use of a fictitious map as a backdrop" which depicted "sovereign Indian territories as part of Pakistan" is a "blatant violation of the SCO Charter and against all its established norms of safeguarding the sovereignty and territorial integrity of SCO member states." SCO Charter, article 2 states,"SCO member States shall adhere to the following principles.." which includes "mutual respect of sovereignty... territorial integrity of States and inviolability of State border". In fact, Secretary of the National Security Council of Russia Nikolai Patrushev told Pakistani side it does not support what Islamabad has done and hoped Pakistan’s "provocative act will not affect India’s participation in SCO and definitely not cast any shadow on Patrushev’s warm personal relationship for NSA for whom he has the highest regard", sources elaborated. The map was the same one issued by Pakistan on the first anniversary of the removal of special status for the erstwhile state of J&K. India, Pakistan, China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan are part of the SCO grouping. Both defence minister Rajnath Singh and external affairs minister S Jaishankar visited Moscow in last two weeks to participate in SCO defence and FMs meet.

India's NSA Ajit Doval walks out of SCO meet after Pakistan violates charter by projecting fictitious map

Security forces on Thursday seized huge cache of explosives near forests in Gadikhal village in Awantipora in J&K. During the search after acting on a tipoff, security officials found two explosive dumps which were reportedly concealed in underground locations.

Security forces on Thursday seized huge cache of explosives near forests in Gadikhal village in Awantipora in J&K. During the search after acting on a tipoff, security officials found two explosive dumps which were reportedly concealed in underground locations. The concealed plastic tanks had 416 high explosive gelatin sticks, reports said, including 50 detonators in another tank. The detonators were later destroyed by the bomb disposal squad. AN FIR was also filed by officials and investigation is underway.

Security forces recover over 400 explosive gelatin sticks, 50 detonators in J&K's Awantipora

Dr VK Saraswat, member of the Niti Aayog said that India needed to focus on small satellites (smallsats). He said small satellites would play a major role in the coming years. He was speaking at an international space conference on 'Ushering the new in Indian Space Sector'

Small satellites (smallsats) is a generic term used to refer to satellites that weigh lesser than 500kg.&nbsp;

“709 satellites were launched in the short interval between November 2018 and March 2020” Dr. VK Saraswat. He projects that 7,038 Small satellites would be launched between 2018 and 2027, where most of them would be used for earth observation, technology and telecommunication purposes. For context, there are only 2,666 in orbit as of March 2020 and a three-fold increase in being foreseen by 2027.&nbsp;

Speaking about the way the space business was evolving, he said that reusable rockets (one-stage or two-stage) and small expendable vehicles were going to be of immense value, as there was tremendous growth in re-usable and low-cost rockets. He also made a mention of ISRO’s upcoming Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV) which is aimed at this segment.

It is notable that the world record of launching maximum number of satellites into orbit is held by the Indian PSLV rocket - which placed 104 satellites in orbit. Over 80 satellites carried by that rocket were owned by an American firm that operates small satellites for imaging purposes. It is such constellations of small satellites that are being touted as the future.&nbsp;

Small satellites make technology accessible to all, by ensuring it is affordable and it serves as a platform to test new technologies. While larger satellites serve multiple purposes, smaller ones can be made for a single-purpose and can reduce the complexity, cost and development time.&nbsp;

According to statistics shared by Saraswat, there were about 1000 Smallsats launched between 2012-17 and about 700 of them were Cubesats. Cubesats are an even smaller category of Smallsats that are cubes with dimensions in multiples of 10cm.&nbsp;

However, Saraswat also referred to some challenges for the SmallSat category, in terms of new technologies for telemetry, tracking and command, besides network for ground and space segment. Also, the Prague Declaration of 2015 showed the need for smallest developers to adhere to international laws, regulations and procedures. &nbsp;There are also challenges in the domains of authorization, registration, frequency allocation, risk, liability, insurance and space debris mitigation.

Dr VK Saraswat, member of the Niti Aayog said that India needed to focus on small satellites (smallsats). He said small satellites would play a major role in the coming years.

Dr VK Saraswat, member of the Niti Aayog said that India needed to focus on small satellites (smallsats). He said small satellites would play a major role in the coming years. He was speaking at an international space conference on 'Ushering the new in Indian Space Sector' Small satellites (smallsats) is a generic term used to refer to satellites that weigh lesser than 500kg. “709 satellites were launched in the short interval between November 2018 and March 2020” Dr. VK Saraswat. He projects that 7,038 Small satellites would be launched between 2018 and 2027, where most of them would be used for earth observation, technology and telecommunication purposes. For context, there are only 2,666 in orbit as of March 2020 and a three-fold increase in being foreseen by 2027. Speaking about the way the space business was evolving, he said that reusable rockets (one-stage or two-stage) and small expendable vehicles were going to be of immense value, as there was tremendous growth in re-usable and low-cost rockets. He also made a mention of ISRO’s upcoming Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV) which is aimed at this segment. It is notable that the world record of launching maximum number of satellites into orbit is held by the Indian PSLV rocket - which placed 104 satellites in orbit. Over 80 satellites carried by that rocket were owned by an American firm that operates small satellites for imaging purposes. It is such constellations of small satellites that are being touted as the future. Small satellites make technology accessible to all, by ensuring it is affordable and it serves as a platform to test new technologies. While larger satellites serve multiple purposes, smaller ones can be made for a single-purpose and can reduce the complexity, cost and development time. According to statistics shared by Saraswat, there were about 1000 Smallsats launched between 2012-17 and about 700 of them were Cubesats. Cubesats are an even smaller category of Smallsats that are cubes with dimensions in multiples of 10cm. However, Saraswat also referred to some challenges for the SmallSat category, in terms of new technologies for telemetry, tracking and command, besides network for ground and space segment. Also, the Prague Declaration of 2015 showed the need for smallest developers to adhere to international laws, regulations and procedures. There are also challenges in the domains of authorization, registration, frequency allocation, risk, liability, insurance and space debris mitigation.

India needs to focus on small satellites for Digital India: Niti Aayog member

Amid continual tensions between New Delhi and Beijing at the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/india-china-standoff">Ladakh border region</a>, Chinese troops have started a new move which is seen as "loudspeaker" tactics for a possible distraction or bringing down the morale of Indian forces.&nbsp;

The People's Liberation Army (PLA) was seen playing Punjabi songs on the Finger 4 at the northern banks of the Pangong Tso, a report by the Hindustan Times claimed.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/chinese-scientist-says-covid-19-was-created-by-chinas-military-327862">Chinese scientist says covid-19 was created by China’s military</a>

Finger 4 is the same area where Indian forces gained dominating positions on August 29-30 after witnessing Chinese attempts of intrusion.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-spying-on-millions-around-the-world-by-harvesting-personal-details-from-the-dark-web-327896">China spying on millions around the world by harvesting personal details from the dark web</a>

The report further said on the southern banks of the lake, the loudspeakers installed by PLA told Indian forces in Hindi that the move to deploy forces at these heights in winters is futile.&nbsp;

Sources told news agency ANI that the Chinese 'loudspeakers' move is under constant watch by Indian soldiers and the idea behind this could be a possible distraction or "relieve the pressure".&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Beijing on Wednesday said it has been "honouring" agreements signed with New Delhi, adding it is committed to "peace and stability" in the border region.&nbsp;

"For the Chinese side, we have been honouring the agreements signed between China and India. We are committed to peace and stability in the border area. Meanwhile, we are committed to our sovereignty and territorial integrity," Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Amid continual tensions between New Delhi and Beijing at the Ladakh border region, Chinese troops have started a new move which is seen as "loudspeaker" tactics for a possible distraction or bringing down the morale of Indian forces.

Amid continual tensions between New Delhi and Beijing at the Ladakh border region, Chinese troops have started a new move which is seen as "loudspeaker" tactics for a possible distraction or bringing down the morale of Indian forces. The People's Liberation Army (PLA) was seen playing Punjabi songs on the Finger 4 at the northern banks of the Pangong Tso, a report by the Hindustan Times claimed. Also read | Chinese scientist says covid-19 was created by China’s military Finger 4 is the same area where Indian forces gained dominating positions on August 29-30 after witnessing Chinese attempts of intrusion. Also read | China spying on millions around the world by harvesting personal details from the dark web The report further said on the southern banks of the lake, the loudspeakers installed by PLA told Indian forces in Hindi that the move to deploy forces at these heights in winters is futile. Sources told news agency ANI that the Chinese 'loudspeakers' move is under constant watch by Indian soldiers and the idea behind this could be a possible distraction or "relieve the pressure". Meanwhile, Beijing on Wednesday said it has been "honouring" agreements signed with New Delhi, adding it is committed to "peace and stability" in the border region. "For the Chinese side, we have been honouring the agreements signed between China and India. We are committed to peace and stability in the border area. Meanwhile, we are committed to our sovereignty and territorial integrity," Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said.

India-China standoff: PLA plays Punjabi songs in Ladakh to distract Indian troops

Russia's sovereign wealth fund has agreed to supply 100 million doses of its coronavirus vaccine, Sputnik-V, to Indian drug company Dr Reddy's Laboratories

Russia to sell 100 million COVID vaccine doses to India

Union Power&nbsp;Minister RK Singh on Thursday said that the abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir will be one of the political issues in the upcoming Bihar Assembly elections due to be held before November 29 this year.&nbsp;

Speaking to ANI, RK Singh said, "Prime Minister Narendra Modi had promised earlier that Article 370 will be scrapped from Jammu and Kashmir and he scrapped it last year. No doubt that this will be one of the political issues in the Bihar Assembly election for BJP.

Arrah Lok Sabha MP RK Singh further stated that Article 370 was removed because it increased Jammu and Kashmir`s isolation from the country.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-committed-to-peace-but-prepared-for-all-contingencies-defence-minister-warns-china-328122">India committed to peace, but prepared for all 'contingencies': Defence Minister warns China</a>

"Our Prime Minister worked to provide electricity in most of the houses of the country. The Prime Minister further decided that every household will be given a gas connection and most of the poor people have been given a gas connection. Did any other Prime Minister think on these lines?" Singh questioned.&nbsp;

"The Prime Minister decided that he will give pucca houses to every poor and are providing. A total of 1,40,00,000 houses were built. The public knows that six months of free food grains were provided, funds were made available in the Jan Dhan account," he added.

Bihar has 243 Assembly seats and elections in the state are expected in October-November as the tenure of the current Assembly will end on November 29 this year. Election Commission has not yet taken a final call on poll dates in Bihar.

Union Power Minister RK Singh on Thursday said that the abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir will be one of the political issues in the upcoming Bihar Assembly elections due to be held before November 29 this year.

Union Power Minister RK Singh on Thursday said that the abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir will be one of the political issues in the upcoming Bihar Assembly elections due to be held before November 29 this year. Speaking to ANI, RK Singh said, "Prime Minister Narendra Modi had promised earlier that Article 370 will be scrapped from Jammu and Kashmir and he scrapped it last year. No doubt that this will be one of the political issues in the Bihar Assembly election for BJP. Arrah Lok Sabha MP RK Singh further stated that Article 370 was removed because it increased Jammu and Kashmir`s isolation from the country. ALSO READ | India committed to peace, but prepared for all 'contingencies': Defence Minister warns China "Our Prime Minister worked to provide electricity in most of the houses of the country. The Prime Minister further decided that every household will be given a gas connection and most of the poor people have been given a gas connection. Did any other Prime Minister think on these lines?" Singh questioned. "The Prime Minister decided that he will give pucca houses to every poor and are providing. A total of 1,40,00,000 houses were built. The public knows that six months of free food grains were provided, funds were made available in the Jan Dhan account," he added. Bihar has 243 Assembly seats and elections in the state are expected in October-November as the tenure of the current Assembly will end on November 29 this year. Election Commission has not yet taken a final call on poll dates in Bihar.

Scrapping of Article 370 will be an issue in Bihar Assembly polls: RK Singh

A week since foreign ministers of India and China met in Moscow, New Delhi has reiterated its call to Beijing for "complete disengagement" at the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/india-china-standoff">Line of Actual Control(LAC)</a>.

Watch:&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/who-is-on-chinas-radar-from-india-327921/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Ministry of external affairs spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said, "Chinese side should sincerely work with the Indian side for complete disengagement at the earliest from all friction areas including Pangong Lake as well as de-escalation in border areas in accordance with the bilateral agreements and protocols on the maintenance of peace and tranquillity in border areas."

"We hope the Chinese side will strictly respect and observe the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-standoff-indian-army-gains-upper-hand-and-control-of-commanding-heights-in-ladakh-326703">Line of Actual Control</a> and not make further attempts to unilaterally change status quo," Srivastava added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-committed-to-peace-but-prepared-for-all-contingencies-defence-minister-warns-china-328122">Also Read:&nbsp;India committed to peace, but prepared for all 'contingencies': Defence Minister warns China</a>

Both foreign ministers had met in Moscow last Thursday on the sidelines of Shanghai Cooperation Organisation FMs meet for two hours. After the meet, they came out with a joint statement calling for easing of tensions by disengagement.&nbsp;

Since then while the Chinese side hasn't indulged in any aggression at LAC, no movement has taken place to disengage by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/india-china-standoff-how-indian-military-is-preparing-for-the-treacherous-high-altitude-winter-against-pla-at-lac-327944">PLA</a> troops.

Meanwhile, statements from Beijing haven't been something that can instil confidence. Chinese foreign ministry in its daily presser on Thursday said, "It is imperative for India to immediately correct its mistakes" and "realize disengagement on the ground and take concrete action to ease up tensions in the relevant areas."

India has been focusing on diplomacy. India's defence minister Rajnath Singh speaking in both houses of the Parliament said New Delhi is committed to peaceful dialogue with the Chinese side including through diplomatic and military channels.&nbsp;

The situation remains precarious on the ground and as winter sets in the Indian army have started to send supplies for forces at the LAC.

A week since foreign ministers of India and China met in Moscow, New Delhi has reiterated its call to Beijing for "complete disengagement" at the Line of Actual Control(LAC).

A week since foreign ministers of India and China met in Moscow, New Delhi has reiterated its call to Beijing for "complete disengagement" at the Line of Actual Control(LAC). Watch: Ministry of external affairs spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said, "Chinese side should sincerely work with the Indian side for complete disengagement at the earliest from all friction areas including Pangong Lake as well as de-escalation in border areas in accordance with the bilateral agreements and protocols on the maintenance of peace and tranquillity in border areas." "We hope the Chinese side will strictly respect and observe the Line of Actual Control and not make further attempts to unilaterally change status quo," Srivastava added. Also Read: India committed to peace, but prepared for all 'contingencies': Defence Minister warns China Both foreign ministers had met in Moscow last Thursday on the sidelines of Shanghai Cooperation Organisation FMs meet for two hours. After the meet, they came out with a joint statement calling for easing of tensions by disengagement. Since then while the Chinese side hasn't indulged in any aggression at LAC, no movement has taken place to disengage by PLA troops. Meanwhile, statements from Beijing haven't been something that can instil confidence. Chinese foreign ministry in its daily presser on Thursday said, "It is imperative for India to immediately correct its mistakes" and "realize disengagement on the ground and take concrete action to ease up tensions in the relevant areas." India has been focusing on diplomacy. India's defence minister Rajnath Singh speaking in both houses of the Parliament said New Delhi is committed to peaceful dialogue with the Chinese side including through diplomatic and military channels. The situation remains precarious on the ground and as winter sets in the Indian army have started to send supplies for forces at the LAC.

India-China standoff: India reiterates calls to China for complete disengagement at LAC

Finland's Prime Minister Sanna Marin has sent her wishes to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on his birthday and lauded the Indian Diaspora which she said is "vibrant and growing" in her country.

In the letter, Marin said, "heartfelt congratulations to you and my best wishes for your good health and wellbeing". Adding, "There is much potential to deepen even further the bilateral relations between India and Finland".&nbsp;

There are 11,775 persons of Indian origin, 5159 NRIs &amp; 6616 PIOs in Finland. Many Indians work in Finnish high-tech and IT companies like Nokia. 
 
<img alt="Sanna Marin and the letter she sent" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c6260be9-bd50-4f14-86c2-379adf1bfe7b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/WhatsApp%20Image%202020-09-17%20at%202.14.16%20PM.jpeg" />

Both countries last year celebrated 70 years of diplomatic ties, with a letter saying, "our nations are staunch supporters of a rules-based international order.

At 34 years and born in November 1985, Sanna is the 2nd youngest serving state leader. She comes after Sebastian Kurz, the Chancellor of Austria with the age difference between the 2 being 10 months. Kurz was born in August of 1986.

The letter by Finland's PM mentioned the ongoing COVID crisis. She said," We are facing challenging times...The pandemic has clearly shown that national measures are not enough. We need international cooperation now more than ever".&nbsp;

She recalled the recent 15th EU India virtual summit that took place on 15th July. She said, "We have the opportunity now to turn the good spirits and broad array of deliverables from it into action".&nbsp;

Explaining, "to this end, Finland supports concrete cooperation between India and EU in many sectors, such as sustainable development.”

Finland's Prime Minister Sanna Marin has sent her wishes to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on his birthday and lauded the Indian Diaspora which she said is "vibrant and growing" in her country.

Finland's Prime Minister Sanna Marin has sent her wishes to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on his birthday and lauded the Indian Diaspora which she said is "vibrant and growing" in her country. In the letter, Marin said, "heartfelt congratulations to you and my best wishes for your good health and wellbeing". Adding, "There is much potential to deepen even further the bilateral relations between India and Finland". There are 11,775 persons of Indian origin, 5159 NRIs & 6616 PIOs in Finland. Many Indians work in Finnish high-tech and IT companies like Nokia. Both countries last year celebrated 70 years of diplomatic ties, with a letter saying, "our nations are staunch supporters of a rules-based international order. At 34 years and born in November 1985, Sanna is the 2nd youngest serving state leader. She comes after Sebastian Kurz, the Chancellor of Austria with the age difference between the 2 being 10 months. Kurz was born in August of 1986. The letter by Finland's PM mentioned the ongoing COVID crisis. She said," We are facing challenging times...The pandemic has clearly shown that national measures are not enough. We need international cooperation now more than ever". She recalled the recent 15th EU India virtual summit that took place on 15th July. She said, "We have the opportunity now to turn the good spirits and broad array of deliverables from it into action". Explaining, "to this end, Finland supports concrete cooperation between India and EU in many sectors, such as sustainable development.”

One of the youngest global leaders, Finland's PM sends happy birthday message to PM Narendra Modi; lauds Indian diaspora  

Rajnath Singh says that China has illegally occupied 38,000 sq km of India's territory in Ladakh, while Pakistan illegally gave away 5,180 square kilometre of PoK's area to Beijing citing the so-called '1963 boundary agreement.

Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh speaks in Parliament over LAC border standoff

Health Minister of India Dr Harshvardhan while addressing the lower house of the Parliament (Lok Sabha) briefs over the current scenario of COVID-19 in India and possibility of having a vaccine by initial months of next year.

'By early next year, we expect India to have a COVID vaccine', says Health Minister

india-news

India, News on India, stories on India, articles on India, India stories at Wion, India news, India latest news

india news