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President Ram Nath Kovind, Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and chiefs of three defence services were among the dignitaries who paid their last respects to former president Pranab Mukherjee on Tuesday morning.

Mukherjee's mortal remains were brought to his residence, 10, Rajaji Marg, earlier today from the army hospital where he breathed his last on Monday.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, Chief of Defence Staff Gen Bipin Rawat, Army Chief Gen M M Naravane, Air Chief Marshal R K S Bhadauria and Navy Chief Admiral Karambir Singh were among others who paid homage to him.

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, BJP president J P Nadda, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, Union ministers Nirmala Sitharaman and Harsh Vardhan, Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury and CPI's D Raja also paid their respects to him.

Also Read: <a href="http://13.235.153.162/india-news/pranab-mukherjee-rise-of-the-political-president-324344">Pranab Mukherjee: Rise of the political President</a>

Cremation is scheduled in the afternoon.

The union government had on Monday announced a seven-day state mourning as a mark of respect for the former president.

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Mukherjee died following a 21-day battle with multiple ailments. He was 84.

A seven-time parliamentarian and recipient of Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian honour, he was one of the most admired and respected political figures.

President Ram Nath Kovind, Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and chiefs of three defence services were among the dignitaries who paid their last respects to former president Pranab Mukherjee on Tuesday morning.

President Ram Nath Kovind, Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and chiefs of three defence services were among the dignitaries who paid their last respects to former president Pranab Mukherjee on Tuesday morning. Mukherjee's mortal remains were brought to his residence, 10, Rajaji Marg, earlier today from the army hospital where he breathed his last on Monday. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, Chief of Defence Staff Gen Bipin Rawat, Army Chief Gen M M Naravane, Air Chief Marshal R K S Bhadauria and Navy Chief Admiral Karambir Singh were among others who paid homage to him. RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, BJP president J P Nadda, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, Union ministers Nirmala Sitharaman and Harsh Vardhan, Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury and CPI's D Raja also paid their respects to him. Also Read: Pranab Mukherjee: Rise of the political President Cremation is scheduled in the afternoon. The union government had on Monday announced a seven-day state mourning as a mark of respect for the former president. × Mukherjee died following a 21-day battle with multiple ailments. He was 84. A seven-time parliamentarian and recipient of Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian honour, he was one of the most admired and respected political figures.

PM Modi, President Kovind pay last respects to Pranab Mukherjee

A quad ministerial meet between India, US, Australia and Japan is being planned and is expected to take place in Delhi, according to US deputy secretary of state Stephen Biegun.

Speaking at&nbsp; the US-India Strategic Partnership Forum, Biegun said, "There’s going to be a meeting of the Quad, a ministerial meeting with the Quad this fall in Delhi – that’s the intention anyway – in person."

"I’d say this Quad concept has really helped India find a place in the Indo-Pacific – in the larger Indo-Pacific theatre. &nbsp;It’s also obviously indeed in our interest to have India as a partner in these issues,"&nbsp;Biegun added.

A source from one of the Quad country told WION,"details of the meet are&nbsp;still being worked out, but there is strong intent to hold something in coming months. Meet could happen after the Indian parliament's session is over."

Indian Parliament's monsoon session will take place from September 14 to October 1.

The Quad foreign ministers had met last year on the sidelines of United Nations General Assembly meeting in the New Year&nbsp;which was the first such meet of the grouping.

Underlining the common democratic set-up of the Quad countries, Biegun said, "Quad... represents&nbsp;four extraordinarily solid democracies" and "shared values that complement shared interests and creates a solid foundation. &nbsp;And so at its core, what the Quad is, is a combination of democracies."

Quad is viewed with suspicion by China which views it as a grouping that is anti-Bejing. Asked about Quad being an anti-China grouping, Biegun said,"I don’t think responding to the threat of China in and of itself or any potential challenge from China in and of itself would be enough of a driver. It also has to have a positive agenda."

"The purpose here can be to create a critical mass around the shared values and interests of those parties in a manner that attracts more countries in the Indo-Pacific,"&nbsp;Biegun added.

A quad ministerial meet between India, US, Australia and Japan is being planned and is expected to take place in Delhi, according to US deputy secretary of state Stephen Biegun.

A quad ministerial meet between India, US, Australia and Japan is being planned and is expected to take place in Delhi, according to US deputy secretary of state Stephen Biegun. Speaking at the US-India Strategic Partnership Forum, Biegun said, "There’s going to be a meeting of the Quad, a ministerial meeting with the Quad this fall in Delhi – that’s the intention anyway – in person." "I’d say this Quad concept has really helped India find a place in the Indo-Pacific – in the larger Indo-Pacific theatre. It’s also obviously indeed in our interest to have India as a partner in these issues," Biegun added. A source from one of the Quad country told WION,"details of the meet are still being worked out, but there is strong intent to hold something in coming months. Meet could happen after the Indian parliament's session is over." Indian Parliament's monsoon session will take place from September 14 to October 1. The Quad foreign ministers had met last year on the sidelines of United Nations General Assembly meeting in the New Year which was the first such meet of the grouping. Underlining the common democratic set-up of the Quad countries, Biegun said, "Quad... represents four extraordinarily solid democracies" and "shared values that complement shared interests and creates a solid foundation. And so at its core, what the Quad is, is a combination of democracies." Quad is viewed with suspicion by China which views it as a grouping that is anti-Bejing. Asked about Quad being an anti-China grouping, Biegun said,"I don’t think responding to the threat of China in and of itself or any potential challenge from China in and of itself would be enough of a driver. It also has to have a positive agenda." "The purpose here can be to create a critical mass around the shared values and interests of those parties in a manner that attracts more countries in the Indo-Pacific," Biegun added.

Quad ministerial meet in Delhi soon, says US deputy secretary of state Stephen Biegun

The Joint Entrance Examinations (JEE) Main for admission to the Indian Institutes of Technology (IIT) has begun with precautions amid COVID-19 on Tuesday, despite protests by Opposition parties and some students.Before entering the exam halls, the temperature of students was checked and sanitisers were also given to them in Delhi.

"I am carrying my own sanitiser and I had also undergone a temperature check," said Pranjal while speaking to ANI outside his examination centre at Arwachin Bharti Bhawan Sr Sec School in Vivek Vihar in New Delhi.

Even in Kolkata, candidates appearing for the exam were seen standing in queues while abiding by the social distancing norm at TCS Gitobitan.In Gorakhpur as well, announcements were being made for the candidates to maintain social distancing and other measures in the wake of COVID 19 spread.

In Kaluchal Chenab College of Education in Jammu, the candidates appearing for the JEE Main exam were standing at a distance for the temperature check and had covered their faces with a mask to contain the spread of the deadly virus.While JEE has been held today, the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test will take place on September 13.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The Joint Entrance Examinations (JEE) Main for admission to the Indian Institutes of Technology (IIT) has begun with precautions amid COVID-19 on Tuesday, despite protests by Opposition parties and some students.

The Joint Entrance Examinations (JEE) Main for admission to the Indian Institutes of Technology (IIT) has begun with precautions amid COVID-19 on Tuesday, despite protests by Opposition parties and some students.Before entering the exam halls, the temperature of students was checked and sanitisers were also given to them in Delhi. "I am carrying my own sanitiser and I had also undergone a temperature check," said Pranjal while speaking to ANI outside his examination centre at Arwachin Bharti Bhawan Sr Sec School in Vivek Vihar in New Delhi. Even in Kolkata, candidates appearing for the exam were seen standing in queues while abiding by the social distancing norm at TCS Gitobitan.In Gorakhpur as well, announcements were being made for the candidates to maintain social distancing and other measures in the wake of COVID 19 spread. In Kaluchal Chenab College of Education in Jammu, the candidates appearing for the JEE Main exam were standing at a distance for the temperature check and had covered their faces with a mask to contain the spread of the deadly virus.While JEE has been held today, the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test will take place on September 13.

JEE main begins across India with COVID-19 precautions

The G4 countries--India, Germany, Japan and Brazil have called out countries who are dragging their feet on United Nations Security Council (UNSC) reforms while slamming China and reiterated backing for Africa at the high table.&nbsp;

The letter was sent by India's deputy permanent representative to UN, Ambassador Nagaraj Naidu to President of the United Nations General assembly (UNGA) Tijjani Muhammad-Bande.

Without taking the name of China, the joint letter by G4 countries said,"after more than a decade towards text-based negotiations, the inter-government&nbsp;negotiations process has become a convenient smokescreen to hide behind for those who do not wish to see any reforms in the security council."

Explaining, "there is a need to ensure that the inter-governmental negotiations (IGN) process is not held hostage, procedurally and substantially, by those who do not wish to bring about reforms in the Security Council" and warning, if this happens then, "those who demand reform will be forced to look for other ways to finally make progress, including potentially outside the&nbsp;"IGN process".

China along with other UNSC members who are opposed to Japanese, German membership as part of UNSC solidarity has been stonewalling talks on expansion of membership.&nbsp;

Intergovernmental Negotiations framework is a group within the United Nations that looks at&nbsp;UNSC reforms but it has made no progress since 2009 when it was formed. The group's conversation is considered "informal" in nature and thus UNGA rule of procedure do not&nbsp;apply. &nbsp;

Also, no attempts have been made to put talks into the consolidated text to begin formal negotiations due to resistance by certain countries opposed to the expansion of UNSC membership. G4 have called for "urgent need for transparency and application of General Assembly's rules of procedure to the intergovernmental negotiations".&nbsp;

The letter by G4 backed Common African position for UNSC expansion as stipulated under Ezulwini Consensus and Sirte declaration. Ezulwini Consensus and Sirte declaration called&nbsp;for at least two&nbsp;permanent and five&nbsp;to two&nbsp;non-permanent UNSC seats to be given to African countries at the high table.

It said, "it is only correct and fair that the growing support expressed for the common African position in the two&nbsp;meetings of the IGN earlier this year are captured" in discussions.

G4 has asked letter to be circulated to all members of UN and called for the continuation of "discussions held in 74th session as soon as possible in the 75th session" of the UNGA.

The G4 countries--India, Germany, Japan and Brazil have called out countries who are dragging their feet on United Nations Security Council (UNSC) reforms while slamming China and reiterated backing for Africa at the high table.

The G4 countries--India, Germany, Japan and Brazil have called out countries who are dragging their feet on United Nations Security Council (UNSC) reforms while slamming China and reiterated backing for Africa at the high table. The letter was sent by India's deputy permanent representative to UN, Ambassador Nagaraj Naidu to President of the United Nations General assembly (UNGA) Tijjani Muhammad-Bande. Without taking the name of China, the joint letter by G4 countries said,"after more than a decade towards text-based negotiations, the inter-government negotiations process has become a convenient smokescreen to hide behind for those who do not wish to see any reforms in the security council." Explaining, "there is a need to ensure that the inter-governmental negotiations (IGN) process is not held hostage, procedurally and substantially, by those who do not wish to bring about reforms in the Security Council" and warning, if this happens then, "those who demand reform will be forced to look for other ways to finally make progress, including potentially outside the "IGN process". China along with other UNSC members who are opposed to Japanese, German membership as part of UNSC solidarity has been stonewalling talks on expansion of membership. Intergovernmental Negotiations framework is a group within the United Nations that looks at UNSC reforms but it has made no progress since 2009 when it was formed. The group's conversation is considered "informal" in nature and thus UNGA rule of procedure do not apply. Also, no attempts have been made to put talks into the consolidated text to begin formal negotiations due to resistance by certain countries opposed to the expansion of UNSC membership. G4 have called for "urgent need for transparency and application of General Assembly's rules of procedure to the intergovernmental negotiations". The letter by G4 backed Common African position for UNSC expansion as stipulated under Ezulwini Consensus and Sirte declaration. Ezulwini Consensus and Sirte declaration called for at least two permanent and five to two non-permanent UNSC seats to be given to African countries at the high table. It said, "it is only correct and fair that the growing support expressed for the common African position in the two meetings of the IGN earlier this year are captured" in discussions. G4 has asked letter to be circulated to all members of UN and called for the continuation of "discussions held in 74th session as soon as possible in the 75th session" of the UNGA.

G4 calls for UNSC reforms, slams China; reiterates backing for Africa at the high table

Amid tensions between India and China along the Line of Control(LAC), newswire ANI quoting official sources said that the Indian Army and Chinese Army will hold brigade commander level talks in Chushul to discuss issues related to the situation on the southern bank of Pangong lake today.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;

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The meeting is scheduled to begin at 9:30 am on Tuesday, ANI sources said.

The Indian Army had said that "on the night of August 29/30, PLA troops violated the previous consensus arrived at during military and diplomatic engagements during the standoff in eastern Ladakh and carried out provocative military movements to change the status quo."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/china-demands-india-withdraw-troops-from-border-to-avoid-escalation-324316">Also Read: China demands India withdraw troops from border to avoid escalation</a>

However, the Chinese Army was quoted by the state-run Global Times saying: "Indian troops have violated the consensus reached at the multi-level talks between India and China and again crossed the Line of Actual Control on Monday and purposely launched provocations."

India and China relations have hit rock bottom since the clash at Galwan Valley between Indian and Chinese troops on June 15 leading to the death of 20 Indian soldiers, although PLA had suffered casualties as well but China's foreign ministry has refused to divulge details.

Both sides have taken part in disengagement talks for the past two months with military commanders of both sides meeting, along with diplomatic efforts to disengage along the LAC. However, reports say the Chinese troops have not pulled back from several key areas in eastern Ladakh.

 
&nbsp;

Amid tensions between India and China along the Line of Control(LAC), newswire ANI quoting official sources said that the Indian Army and Chinese Army will hold brigade commander level talks in Chushul to discuss issues related to the situation on the southern bank of Pangong lake today.

Amid tensions between India and China along the Line of Control(LAC), newswire ANI quoting official sources said that the Indian Army and Chinese Army will hold brigade commander level talks in Chushul to discuss issues related to the situation on the southern bank of Pangong lake today. Watch: The meeting is scheduled to begin at 9:30 am on Tuesday, ANI sources said. The Indian Army had said that "on the night of August 29/30, PLA troops violated the previous consensus arrived at during military and diplomatic engagements during the standoff in eastern Ladakh and carried out provocative military movements to change the status quo." Also Read: China demands India withdraw troops from border to avoid escalation However, the Chinese Army was quoted by the state-run Global Times saying: "Indian troops have violated the consensus reached at the multi-level talks between India and China and again crossed the Line of Actual Control on Monday and purposely launched provocations." India and China relations have hit rock bottom since the clash at Galwan Valley between Indian and Chinese troops on June 15 leading to the death of 20 Indian soldiers, although PLA had suffered casualties as well but China's foreign ministry has refused to divulge details. Both sides have taken part in disengagement talks for the past two months with military commanders of both sides meeting, along with diplomatic efforts to disengage along the LAC. However, reports say the Chinese troops have not pulled back from several key areas in eastern Ladakh.

India-China standoff: Amid tensions along LAC, India, China brigade commander talks today

With 69,921 people testing positive for coronavirus infection, India's COVID-19 tally mounted to 3,691,166, while recoveries surged to 2,839,882 on Tuesday pushing the recovery rate to 76.94 per cent,according to the Union Health Ministry data.

The death toll climbed to 65,288 with 819 new fatalities being reported in a span of 24 hours,the data updated at 8 am showed.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/how-a-13-device-is-helping-delhi-fight-the-coronavirus-324261">Also read:&nbsp;How a $13 device is helping Delhi fight the coronavirus</a>

The COVID-19 case fatality rate has further declined to 1.77 per cent.

There are 785,996 active cases of coronavirus infection in the country which comprises 21.29 per cent of the total caseload, the data stated.

India's COVID-19 tally had crossed the 20-lakh mark on August 7 and went past 30 lakh on August 23.

According tothe ICMR, a cumulative total of 43,324,834 samples have been tested up to August 31 with 1,016,920 samples being tested on Monday.

With 69,921 people testing positive for coronavirus infection, India's COVID-19 tally mounted to 3,691,166, while recoveries surged to 2,839,882 on Tuesday pushing the recovery rate to 76.

With 69,921 people testing positive for coronavirus infection, India's COVID-19 tally mounted to 3,691,166, while recoveries surged to 2,839,882 on Tuesday pushing the recovery rate to 76.94 per cent,according to the Union Health Ministry data. The death toll climbed to 65,288 with 819 new fatalities being reported in a span of 24 hours,the data updated at 8 am showed. Also read: How a $13 device is helping Delhi fight the coronavirus The COVID-19 case fatality rate has further declined to 1.77 per cent. There are 785,996 active cases of coronavirus infection in the country which comprises 21.29 per cent of the total caseload, the data stated. India's COVID-19 tally had crossed the 20-lakh mark on August 7 and went past 30 lakh on August 23. According tothe ICMR, a cumulative total of 43,324,834 samples have been tested up to August 31 with 1,016,920 samples being tested on Monday.

COVID-19: Cases cross 3.5 million in India with 69,921 new cases

For the first time, a female IPS officer has been appointed as Inspector General (IG) of Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) Srinagar sector, one of the terrorist-affected areas in Jammu and Kashmir.

Charu Sinha, IPS officer of the 1996-batch Telangana cadre, will now be heading the Srinagar sector for CRPF as the Inspector General. This is not the first time when she has been assigned such a tough task, earlier also, she had worked as IG, the Bihar sector in CRPF and has dealt with Naxals.

Under her leadership, various anti-Naxals operations were carried out. Later, she was transferred to IG Jammu in CRPF where she spent a long and successful tenure. On Monday, a fresh order came appointing her as the IG Srinagar sector.Current Director-General CRPF AP Maheshwari headed the Srinagar sector as IG in 2005.

The sector, which started functioning in 2005 never had a female officer at the IG level. This sector involved in anti-terror operations and closely work with the Indian Army along with Jammu and Kashmir police.

"Srinagar sector is located at Brein Nishat, Srinagar (J-K). It started functioning in 2005. Srinagar Sector has operational jurisdiction over three districts of J-K- Budgam, Ganderbal, and Srinagar and Union Territory of Ladakh," the CRPF said.

"It includes 2 ranges, 22 executive units, and 3 Mahila companies. Apart from it, Srinagar Sector has administrative control on Group Centre-Srinagar," the paramilitary force added.

Sinha will also be heading all operations involved in this sector.Besides this, 6 IPS officers and 4 senior cadre officers have also been transferred or inducted in CRPF. IPS officers Maheshwar Dayal (Jharkhand sector), PS Ranpise (Jammu sector), Raju Bhargava (Work) have been inducted into the CRPF.

PS Ranpise will replace Charu Sinha as head of the Jammu sector.Similarly, Rajesh Kumar who was heading operations Kashmir in the J-K zone has been transferred and Sanjay Kaushik will head the Dehradun sector.Others who have been transferred are Rakesh Kumar Yadav, RNS Bahad, and Pramod Kumar Pandey.&nbsp;

For the first time, a female IPS officer has been appointed as Inspector General (IG) of Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) Srinagar sector, one of the terrorist-affected areas in Jammu and Kashmir.

For the first time, a female IPS officer has been appointed as Inspector General (IG) of Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) Srinagar sector, one of the terrorist-affected areas in Jammu and Kashmir. Charu Sinha, IPS officer of the 1996-batch Telangana cadre, will now be heading the Srinagar sector for CRPF as the Inspector General. This is not the first time when she has been assigned such a tough task, earlier also, she had worked as IG, the Bihar sector in CRPF and has dealt with Naxals. Under her leadership, various anti-Naxals operations were carried out. Later, she was transferred to IG Jammu in CRPF where she spent a long and successful tenure. On Monday, a fresh order came appointing her as the IG Srinagar sector.Current Director-General CRPF AP Maheshwari headed the Srinagar sector as IG in 2005. The sector, which started functioning in 2005 never had a female officer at the IG level. This sector involved in anti-terror operations and closely work with the Indian Army along with Jammu and Kashmir police. "Srinagar sector is located at Brein Nishat, Srinagar (J-K). It started functioning in 2005. Srinagar Sector has operational jurisdiction over three districts of J-K- Budgam, Ganderbal, and Srinagar and Union Territory of Ladakh," the CRPF said. "It includes 2 ranges, 22 executive units, and 3 Mahila companies. Apart from it, Srinagar Sector has administrative control on Group Centre-Srinagar," the paramilitary force added. Sinha will also be heading all operations involved in this sector.Besides this, 6 IPS officers and 4 senior cadre officers have also been transferred or inducted in CRPF. IPS officers Maheshwar Dayal (Jharkhand sector), PS Ranpise (Jammu sector), Raju Bhargava (Work) have been inducted into the CRPF. PS Ranpise will replace Charu Sinha as head of the Jammu sector.Similarly, Rajesh Kumar who was heading operations Kashmir in the J-K zone has been transferred and Sanjay Kaushik will head the Dehradun sector.Others who have been transferred are Rakesh Kumar Yadav, RNS Bahad, and Pramod Kumar Pandey.

In a first, female IPS officer to head terrorist-hit Srinagar sector for CRPF

Pritam Singh, Singapore's Indian-origin politician scripted history on Monday when the city-state's Parliament conferred the duties and privileges to him as the country's first Leader of the Opposition.

Singh's Workers' Party won 10 parliamentary seats out of the 93 it contested in the July 10 General Election, making it the biggest opposition presence in Singapore's parliamentary history.

As the House began proceedings on Monday, one of the first orders of business was a ministerial statement by the Leader of the House Indranee Rajah on formally recognising Singh, 43, as the country's first Opposition leader.

Addressing Parliament, Singh underlined the need to focus on foreigners and their living conditions. He said how foreign workers are managed and accommodated needs to be improved.

“Their (foreigners) presence gives Singapore a vitality that keeps us economically relevant and also provides jobs and opportunities to our fellow Singaporeans. Many of us count the foreigners in our midst - regardless of race, language or religion - as our friends," Channel News Asia quoted Singh as saying.

“It is precisely because we need foreigners to help power our economy that we need to pay more attention to the Singapore worker... some of whom feel excluded from (the) opportunities created in their homeland," Singh said.

Leader of House Indranee, who is also of Indian-origin from the ruling People's Action Party (PAP), said, "With more opposition MPs reflecting a 'strong desire among Singaporeans for a greater diversity of views in politics' as noted by the Prime Minister (Lee Hsien Loong) in his swearing-in speech.. It is timely and appropriate that the position of the Leader of the Opposition be more formally recognised."

The PAP has an absolute majority in the House with 83 elected members.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/singapore-is-battling-record-dengue-outbreak-with-lab-bred-mosquitoes-323766">Also read:&nbsp;Singapore is battling record dengue outbreak with lab-bred mosquitoes</a>

The House passed a motion to double Singh's speaking time from 20 minutes -- which is allotted to backbenchers -- to 40 minutes, the duration allotted to office holders.

Singh took the seat directly opposite Prime Minister Lee in the chamber.

This is similar to the practice in other countries that formally recognise the role of the Leader of the Opposition, Indranee pointed out.

Singh called on the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) to publish the names of "recalcitrant" employers who do not give locals a fair chance in hiring and promotion.

The MOM had recently placed 47 companies on the Fair Consideration Framework (FCF) watchlist for discriminatory hiring practices.

A wealth management firm on the list was found to have almost three-quarters of its professionals from the same country, he said.

In another similar case, a bank was found to have two-thirds of its professionals from a particular country.

“The obvious question is, how did those two companies get to those stages without the MOM taking action?" he asked.

“MOM website states at one point and I quote: ‘MOM does not tolerate unfair hiring practices and employers who do not give locals a fair chance in hiring and promotion will face scrutiny and stiff penalties if found to have unfair hiring practices," he said.

Following the General Election, Prime Minister Loong had said Singh will be designated the Leader of the Opposition in the 14th Parliament, and that he would be given staff support and resources to perform his duties.

There have been de facto leaders of the Opposition in the past, such as former Singapore People's Party chief Chiam See Tong. However, this is the first time the position is being recognised officially.

During her address on Monday, Indranee, 57, reiterated that Singh will be given an office in Parliament, staff support and resources, as well as additional allowance.

The Leader of the Opposition will generally be given the right of first response among MPs to ask the lead question to ministers on policies, bills and motions in Parliament.

This will be at the discretion of the Speaker and subject to existing conventions, she said.

As Leader of the Opposition, Singh's duties include leading and organising the Opposition's parliamentary business. He may also take on other duties such as attending official state functions and taking part in visits and meetings with members of the Government and the public service.

He will also, from time to time, receive briefings by the government on confidential issues, and the matters to be briefed will be determined by the government, said Indranee.

These duties and privileges are based on the conventions and practices of other Westminster-style parliamentary systems, but reflect adaptations to Singapore's political and parliamentary context, she added.

"With greater diversity of views, we can expect more robust debate and, in some cases, sharper exchanges. But we should work to ensure that diversity does not lead to polarity, of the country or of the people," said Indranee.

"Experience elsewhere shows that unity in diversity is not an assured outcome. Our goal should be to harness this diversity of views in a constructive manner, so that we can as a Parliament better serve the interests of Singaporeans and Singapore."

&nbsp;

Pritam Singh, Singapore's Indian-origin politician scripted history on Monday when the city-state's Parliament conferred the duties and privileges to him as the country's first Leader of the Opposition.

Pritam Singh, Singapore's Indian-origin politician scripted history on Monday when the city-state's Parliament conferred the duties and privileges to him as the country's first Leader of the Opposition. Singh's Workers' Party won 10 parliamentary seats out of the 93 it contested in the July 10 General Election, making it the biggest opposition presence in Singapore's parliamentary history. As the House began proceedings on Monday, one of the first orders of business was a ministerial statement by the Leader of the House Indranee Rajah on formally recognising Singh, 43, as the country's first Opposition leader. Addressing Parliament, Singh underlined the need to focus on foreigners and their living conditions. He said how foreign workers are managed and accommodated needs to be improved. “Their (foreigners) presence gives Singapore a vitality that keeps us economically relevant and also provides jobs and opportunities to our fellow Singaporeans. Many of us count the foreigners in our midst - regardless of race, language or religion - as our friends," Channel News Asia quoted Singh as saying. “It is precisely because we need foreigners to help power our economy that we need to pay more attention to the Singapore worker... some of whom feel excluded from (the) opportunities created in their homeland," Singh said. Leader of House Indranee, who is also of Indian-origin from the ruling People's Action Party (PAP), said, "With more opposition MPs reflecting a 'strong desire among Singaporeans for a greater diversity of views in politics' as noted by the Prime Minister (Lee Hsien Loong) in his swearing-in speech.. It is timely and appropriate that the position of the Leader of the Opposition be more formally recognised." The PAP has an absolute majority in the House with 83 elected members. Also read: Singapore is battling record dengue outbreak with lab-bred mosquitoes The House passed a motion to double Singh's speaking time from 20 minutes -- which is allotted to backbenchers -- to 40 minutes, the duration allotted to office holders. Singh took the seat directly opposite Prime Minister Lee in the chamber. This is similar to the practice in other countries that formally recognise the role of the Leader of the Opposition, Indranee pointed out. Singh called on the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) to publish the names of "recalcitrant" employers who do not give locals a fair chance in hiring and promotion. The MOM had recently placed 47 companies on the Fair Consideration Framework (FCF) watchlist for discriminatory hiring practices. A wealth management firm on the list was found to have almost three-quarters of its professionals from the same country, he said. In another similar case, a bank was found to have two-thirds of its professionals from a particular country. “The obvious question is, how did those two companies get to those stages without the MOM taking action?" he asked. “MOM website states at one point and I quote: ‘MOM does not tolerate unfair hiring practices and employers who do not give locals a fair chance in hiring and promotion will face scrutiny and stiff penalties if found to have unfair hiring practices," he said. Following the General Election, Prime Minister Loong had said Singh will be designated the Leader of the Opposition in the 14th Parliament, and that he would be given staff support and resources to perform his duties. There have been de facto leaders of the Opposition in the past, such as former Singapore People's Party chief Chiam See Tong. However, this is the first time the position is being recognised officially. During her address on Monday, Indranee, 57, reiterated that Singh will be given an office in Parliament, staff support and resources, as well as additional allowance. The Leader of the Opposition will generally be given the right of first response among MPs to ask the lead question to ministers on policies, bills and motions in Parliament. This will be at the discretion of the Speaker and subject to existing conventions, she said. As Leader of the Opposition, Singh's duties include leading and organising the Opposition's parliamentary business. He may also take on other duties such as attending official state functions and taking part in visits and meetings with members of the Government and the public service. He will also, from time to time, receive briefings by the government on confidential issues, and the matters to be briefed will be determined by the government, said Indranee. These duties and privileges are based on the conventions and practices of other Westminster-style parliamentary systems, but reflect adaptations to Singapore's political and parliamentary context, she added. "With greater diversity of views, we can expect more robust debate and, in some cases, sharper exchanges. But we should work to ensure that diversity does not lead to polarity, of the country or of the people," said Indranee. "Experience elsewhere shows that unity in diversity is not an assured outcome. Our goal should be to harness this diversity of views in a constructive manner, so that we can as a Parliament better serve the interests of Singaporeans and Singapore."

Indian-origin Pritam Singh becomes Singapore's first Leader of Opposition

India along with Japan, Germany and Brazil, part of the G4 countries on Monday called off China and coffee group's bluff on United Nation Security Council (UNSC) reforms as the United Nations decided on next step for reforms at the high table. &nbsp;

The coffee group of Uniting for Consensus (UFC) group, led by Italy has Pakistan, Turkey as its members and aims to counter bids by the G4 countries.

India shot off two letters, one on a standalone basis and another as part of G4 grouping to United Nations General assembly (UNGA) President highlighting 2 aspects--one backing Common African position, and another and more importantly on those who on the pretext of negotiations are stalling reforms--which clearly pointed to China.

The letter by India's deputy permanent representative to UN, Ambassador Nagaraj Naidu to President of the United Nations General assembly (UNGA) Tijjani Muhammad-Bande said, “after more than a decade towards text-based negotiations, the inter govt negotiations process has become a convenient smokescreen to hide behind for those who do not wish to see any reforms in the security council" 
Explaining, "there is a need to ensure that the inter-governmental negotiations (IGN) process is not held hostage, procedurally and substantially, by those who do not wish to bring about reforms in the security council" and warning, if this happens then, "those who demand reform will be forced to look for other ways to finally make progress, including potentially outside the" IGN process.

Intergovernmental Negotiations framework (IGN) is a group within the United Nations that is looking into UNSC reforms but it has made no progress since 2009 when it was formed. The group's conversation is considered "informal" in nature and thus UNGA rule of procedure done apply. &nbsp;

Also, no attempts have been made to put talks into the consolidated text to begin formal negotiations due to resistance by certain countries like China opposed to the expansion of UNSC membership. G4 have also called for "urgent need for transparency and application of general assembly's rules of procedure to the intergovernmental negotiations"&nbsp; 
 
On Africa, the letter said, "it is only correct and fair that the growing support expressed for the common African position in the 2 meetings of the IGN earlier this year are captured" in discussions. 
 
The "Common African position" for UNSC expansion has been stipulated under Ezulwini Consensus and Sirte Declaration, both of which call for at least 2 permanent and 5 to 2 non-permanent UNSC seats to be given to African countries at the high table. 
 
What is interesting is, the Chinese mission to the UN was quick to react and questioned the need for reforms in "haste". This when informal negotiations for reforms are underway for the last 10 year, thus bringing out the Bejing's mischief on reforms at UNSC. The Chinese mission in a statement said, "To start text-based negotiation in a haste or to impose a single document is not conducive to building a consensus and promoting unity".&nbsp; 
 
The Italian mission to UN, chair to the coffee group also reacted and in a letter called for "necessary political will and flexibility". Both the Chinese letter and coffee club's letter had no mention of Common African position. 
 
Earlier this year two&nbsp;IGN meetings have happened, but the rest 3 meetings are yet to happen. &nbsp;The developments of Monday will be part of UN record and will be raised by countries calling for reforms during the further negotiation process.

India along with Japan, Germany and Brazil, part of the G4 countries on Monday called off China and coffee group's bluff on United Nation Security Council (UNSC) reforms as the United Nations decided on next step for reforms at the high table.

India along with Japan, Germany and Brazil, part of the G4 countries on Monday called off China and coffee group's bluff on United Nation Security Council (UNSC) reforms as the United Nations decided on next step for reforms at the high table. The coffee group of Uniting for Consensus (UFC) group, led by Italy has Pakistan, Turkey as its members and aims to counter bids by the G4 countries. India shot off two letters, one on a standalone basis and another as part of G4 grouping to United Nations General assembly (UNGA) President highlighting 2 aspects--one backing Common African position, and another and more importantly on those who on the pretext of negotiations are stalling reforms--which clearly pointed to China. The letter by India's deputy permanent representative to UN, Ambassador Nagaraj Naidu to President of the United Nations General assembly (UNGA) Tijjani Muhammad-Bande said, “after more than a decade towards text-based negotiations, the inter govt negotiations process has become a convenient smokescreen to hide behind for those who do not wish to see any reforms in the security council" Explaining, "there is a need to ensure that the inter-governmental negotiations (IGN) process is not held hostage, procedurally and substantially, by those who do not wish to bring about reforms in the security council" and warning, if this happens then, "those who demand reform will be forced to look for other ways to finally make progress, including potentially outside the" IGN process. Intergovernmental Negotiations framework (IGN) is a group within the United Nations that is looking into UNSC reforms but it has made no progress since 2009 when it was formed. The group's conversation is considered "informal" in nature and thus UNGA rule of procedure done apply. Also, no attempts have been made to put talks into the consolidated text to begin formal negotiations due to resistance by certain countries like China opposed to the expansion of UNSC membership. G4 have also called for "urgent need for transparency and application of general assembly's rules of procedure to the intergovernmental negotiations" On Africa, the letter said, "it is only correct and fair that the growing support expressed for the common African position in the 2 meetings of the IGN earlier this year are captured" in discussions. The "Common African position" for UNSC expansion has been stipulated under Ezulwini Consensus and Sirte Declaration, both of which call for at least 2 permanent and 5 to 2 non-permanent UNSC seats to be given to African countries at the high table. What is interesting is, the Chinese mission to the UN was quick to react and questioned the need for reforms in "haste". This when informal negotiations for reforms are underway for the last 10 year, thus bringing out the Bejing's mischief on reforms at UNSC. The Chinese mission in a statement said, "To start text-based negotiation in a haste or to impose a single document is not conducive to building a consensus and promoting unity". The Italian mission to UN, chair to the coffee group also reacted and in a letter called for "necessary political will and flexibility". Both the Chinese letter and coffee club's letter had no mention of Common African position. Earlier this year two IGN meetings have happened, but the rest 3 meetings are yet to happen. The developments of Monday will be part of UN record and will be raised by countries calling for reforms during the further negotiation process.

India, G4 call off China's bluff on UNSC reforms

The Jammu and Kashmir police have been at the forefront in the fight against terrorism in the union territory but there are more modem challenges. WION visited Cyber police room in Srinagar which monitors fake accounts and handles trying to propagate hate and agenda.

The Jammu and Kashmir police have been at the forefront in the fight against terrorism in the union territory but there are more modem challenges. WION visited Cyber police room in Srinagar which monitors fake accounts and handles trying to propagate hate and agenda. The Jammu and Kashmir police have also been rescuing people from cyber frauds and an amount of 50 Lakh Indian rupees have been recovered to date. The Cyber labs at Srinagar monitors social media 24x7. Here young IT experts track, monitor, and counter fake identity cases. Cybercrime has emerged as a big challenge for law enforcement agencies in the valley with Pakistan attempting to take advantage of social media platforms. Officials say cyber teams have ensured that propaganda videos to provoke youth are stopped and those attempting to disseminate them are held. Thousand-plus handles have also been disabled which were using a fake identity to create chaos in Kashmir. The man behind this is Tahir Ashraf, who has worked hard to deal with such cases. "Many accounts are operated from not only Pakistan but other countries as well which try to propagate things to disturb the peace. Through different methods, we trace them. There was a handle who posted something which could've created communal tension, we took help from platforms and deleted them," says Tahir Ashraf, in charge Cyber police, Kashmir. Tahir's men are IT experts who keep a close eye on social media. On a usual day, there are cases regarding fake social identity and financial frauds. So far, 70 complaints of financial frauds, multiple online harassments and cyberbullying cases have been resolved. "Cyber policing is also one reason that violence near encounter sites have been down. We keep an eye on handles and websites which could result in law and order problem or someone who appreciates someone for joining terrorism. I think this has resulted in the reduction of violence," Tahir says. This is also the address which deals with countering terrorism and tracking them down to bring peace. In the past, several handles propagating fake news have been disabled and people.

Inside J&K police’s cyber room which tackles fake news and propaganda

One in four adults globally do not want to get vaccinated against COVID-19, largely due to their apprehensions about side-effects and effectiveness of the vaccine, but the proportion of such people is much less at about 13 per cent in India, a new survey showed on Tuesday.

The World Economic Forum-Ipsos survey of nearly 20,000 adults from 27 countries also put Indians as the third most optimistic population -- after China and Saudi Arabia -- about a COVID-19 vaccine being available in 2020 itself.

Globally, 74 per cent respondents said they would get a vaccine for COVID-19 if it is available, but more than half (59 per cent) do not expect that one will be available before the end of this year.

Arnaud Bernaert, Head of Shaping the Future of Health and Healthcare at the WEF, said, "the 26 per cent shortfall in vaccine confidence is significant enough to compromise the effectiveness of rolling out a COVID-19 vaccine.

It is therefore critical that governments and the private sector come together to build confidence and ensure that manufacturing capacity meets the global supply of a COVID-19 vaccination programme.

This will require cooperation between researchers and manufacturers and public funding arrangements that remove restrictions to vaccine access".

The countries where the COVID-19 vaccination intent was found to be the highest are China (97 per cent), Brazil (88 per cent), Australia (88 per cent), and India (87 per cent).

Those where it is lowest are Russia (54 per cent), Poland (56 per cent), Hungary (56 per cent), and France (59 per cent).

However, in most countries, those who agree outnumber those who disagree by a significant margin, the WEF said while announcing the survey results.

Across all 27 countries, 59 per cent respondents disagreed that "a vaccine for COVID-19 will be available to me before the end of 2020".

China stood out for its optimism with 87 per cent of those surveyed expecting a vaccine to be ready this year, followed by Saudi Arabia (75 per cent) and India (74 per cent).

By contrast, skepticism prevails in Germany, Belgium, Japan and Poland where fewer than one in four adults anticipate that a vaccine will be available at some point in the next four months, the WEF said.

The most frequently mentioned reason for not taking a vaccine among those who would not get one is worry about side effects, followed by the perception of effectiveness.

There are also several countries that feel they are not sufficiently at risk and a proportion who are against vaccines in general, the survey results showed.

Geneva-based WEF, which describes itself as an international organisation for public-private cooperation, said the survey was conducted between July 24 and August 7 by Ipsos, the world's third-largest market research firm, on its global advisor online survey platform.

The surveyed countries also included the US, Canada, Malaysia, South Africa, Turkey, South Korea, Peru, Argentina, Mexico, Spain, Netherlands, Sweden, and Italy.

One in four adults globally do not want to get vaccinated against COVID-19, largely due to their apprehensions about side-effects and effectiveness of the vaccine, but the proportion of such people is much less at about 13 per cent in India, a new survey showed on Tuesday.

One in four adults globally do not want to get vaccinated against COVID-19, largely due to their apprehensions about side-effects and effectiveness of the vaccine, but the proportion of such people is much less at about 13 per cent in India, a new survey showed on Tuesday. The World Economic Forum-Ipsos survey of nearly 20,000 adults from 27 countries also put Indians as the third most optimistic population -- after China and Saudi Arabia -- about a COVID-19 vaccine being available in 2020 itself. Globally, 74 per cent respondents said they would get a vaccine for COVID-19 if it is available, but more than half (59 per cent) do not expect that one will be available before the end of this year. Arnaud Bernaert, Head of Shaping the Future of Health and Healthcare at the WEF, said, "the 26 per cent shortfall in vaccine confidence is significant enough to compromise the effectiveness of rolling out a COVID-19 vaccine. It is therefore critical that governments and the private sector come together to build confidence and ensure that manufacturing capacity meets the global supply of a COVID-19 vaccination programme. This will require cooperation between researchers and manufacturers and public funding arrangements that remove restrictions to vaccine access". The countries where the COVID-19 vaccination intent was found to be the highest are China (97 per cent), Brazil (88 per cent), Australia (88 per cent), and India (87 per cent). Those where it is lowest are Russia (54 per cent), Poland (56 per cent), Hungary (56 per cent), and France (59 per cent). However, in most countries, those who agree outnumber those who disagree by a significant margin, the WEF said while announcing the survey results. Across all 27 countries, 59 per cent respondents disagreed that "a vaccine for COVID-19 will be available to me before the end of 2020". China stood out for its optimism with 87 per cent of those surveyed expecting a vaccine to be ready this year, followed by Saudi Arabia (75 per cent) and India (74 per cent). By contrast, skepticism prevails in Germany, Belgium, Japan and Poland where fewer than one in four adults anticipate that a vaccine will be available at some point in the next four months, the WEF said. The most frequently mentioned reason for not taking a vaccine among those who would not get one is worry about side effects, followed by the perception of effectiveness. There are also several countries that feel they are not sufficiently at risk and a proportion who are against vaccines in general, the survey results showed. Geneva-based WEF, which describes itself as an international organisation for public-private cooperation, said the survey was conducted between July 24 and August 7 by Ipsos, the world's third-largest market research firm, on its global advisor online survey platform. The surveyed countries also included the US, Canada, Malaysia, South Africa, Turkey, South Korea, Peru, Argentina, Mexico, Spain, Netherlands, Sweden, and Italy.

One in four adults globally do not want COVID-19 vaccination: Survey

India on Tuesday said that China engaged in provocative military manoeuvres in the late night of August 29 and August 30 in an attempt to change the status quo in the South Bank area of Pangong Lake.&nbsp;

In a statement issued by the Ministry of External Affairs informed that "on August 31, even as ground commanders of two sides were in discussions to de-escalate the situation, Chinese troops again engaged in provocative action. Due to timely defensive action, the Indian side was able to prevent these attempts to unilaterally alter the status quo."

Watch:

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The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said that India was able to prevent unilaterally attempts by China to alter the status quo once again after a similar incident had taken place on the intervening night of August 29-30 along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/china-demands-india-withdraw-troops-from-border-to-avoid-escalation-324316">Also Read:&nbsp;China demands India withdraw troops from border to avoid escalation</a>

Here's the full statement by the government

As you are aware, India and China have been closely engaged through diplomatic and military channels over the past three months to resolve the situation along the India-China border. It would also be recalled that earlier the two Foreign Ministers and the two Special Representatives had agreed that the situation should be handled in a responsible manner and either side should not take any provocative action or escalate matters and ensure peace and tranquillity as per bilateral agreements and protocol. 
&nbsp; 
The Chinese side, however, violated this understanding and engaged in provocative military manoeuvres in the late night of 29th and on 30th August in an attempt to change the status quo in the South Bank area of Pangong Lake. As stated yesterday by the Indian Army, the Indian side responded to these provocative actions and took appropriate defensive measures along the LAC in order to safeguard our interests and defend the territorial integrity. Furthermore, yesterday on 31st August, even as the ground commanders of the two sides were in discussions to de-escalate the situation, the Chinese troops again engaged in provocative action. Due to the timely defensive action, the Indian side was able to prevent these attempts to unilaterally alter the status quo. 
&nbsp; 
The actions and behaviour of the Chinese side since earlier this year along the LAC has been in clear violation of the bilateral agreements and protocols concluded between the two countries to ensure peace and tranquillity on the border. Such actions are also in complete disregard to the understandings reached between the two Foreign Ministers as also the Special Representatives. 
&nbsp; 
We have taken up the matter of recent provocative and aggressive actions with the Chinese side through both diplomatic and military channels and have urged them to discipline and control their frontline troops from undertaking such provocative actions. 
&nbsp; 
The Indian side is firmly committed to resolving all outstanding issues along the LAC in the Western Sector through peaceful dialogue. In this context, we expect the Chinese side to sincerely abide by the understanding reached earlier and earnestly work with India to resolve the situation and to restore peace and tranquillity in the border areas.

India on Tuesday said that China engaged in provocative military manoeuvres in the late night of August 29 and August 30 in an attempt to change the status quo in the South Bank area of Pangong Lake.

India on Tuesday said that China engaged in provocative military manoeuvres in the late night of August 29 and August 30 in an attempt to change the status quo in the South Bank area of Pangong Lake. In a statement issued by the Ministry of External Affairs informed that "on August 31, even as ground commanders of two sides were in discussions to de-escalate the situation, Chinese troops again engaged in provocative action. Due to timely defensive action, the Indian side was able to prevent these attempts to unilaterally alter the status quo." Watch: The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said that India was able to prevent unilaterally attempts by China to alter the status quo once again after a similar incident had taken place on the intervening night of August 29-30 along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). Also Read: China demands India withdraw troops from border to avoid escalation Here's the full statement by the government As you are aware, India and China have been closely engaged through diplomatic and military channels over the past three months to resolve the situation along the India-China border. It would also be recalled that earlier the two Foreign Ministers and the two Special Representatives had agreed that the situation should be handled in a responsible manner and either side should not take any provocative action or escalate matters and ensure peace and tranquillity as per bilateral agreements and protocol. The Chinese side, however, violated this understanding and engaged in provocative military manoeuvres in the late night of 29th and on 30th August in an attempt to change the status quo in the South Bank area of Pangong Lake. As stated yesterday by the Indian Army, the Indian side responded to these provocative actions and took appropriate defensive measures along the LAC in order to safeguard our interests and defend the territorial integrity. Furthermore, yesterday on 31st August, even as the ground commanders of the two sides were in discussions to de-escalate the situation, the Chinese troops again engaged in provocative action. Due to the timely defensive action, the Indian side was able to prevent these attempts to unilaterally alter the status quo. The actions and behaviour of the Chinese side since earlier this year along the LAC has been in clear violation of the bilateral agreements and protocols concluded between the two countries to ensure peace and tranquillity on the border. Such actions are also in complete disregard to the understandings reached between the two Foreign Ministers as also the Special Representatives. We have taken up the matter of recent provocative and aggressive actions with the Chinese side through both diplomatic and military channels and have urged them to discipline and control their frontline troops from undertaking such provocative actions. The Indian side is firmly committed to resolving all outstanding issues along the LAC in the Western Sector through peaceful dialogue. In this context, we expect the Chinese side to sincerely abide by the understanding reached earlier and earnestly work with India to resolve the situation and to restore peace and tranquillity in the border areas.

China's provocation at LAC is a clear violation of agreements: India

On Saturday night, the Indian Army thwarted an attempt by China to change the status quo near the Line of Actual Control (LAC) by deploying its troops

WION Dispatch: China alleges India violated its territorial integrity

'Plan was to occupy Southern Bank of Pangong Tso' claims India

The Galwan clash was the deadliest in 45 years. 20 Indian soldiers killed in action that took place on June 15.&nbsp;

The P.L.A's unprovoked attack on Indian soldiers added fuel to a long-smouldering conflict. The galwan clashes led to outrage. There were calls for a complete boycott of China in India.

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held talks with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi. Jaishankar said the Chinese attack was pre-meditated and Wang Yi was reminded of China's agreement to de-escalate and disengage along the line of actual control.

However, the very next day, the Chinese government claimed the entire Galwan Valley. The Chinese Foreign Ministry statement said: "The Galwan Valley is located on the chinese side of the lac in the western section of the sino-indian border.”

China was never serious about de-escalation. This became obvious in the conversations that followed.

On June 22, India and China held military-level talks. This was the second round of dialogue. The first one --- happened on June 6.&nbsp;

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Before the clashes in Galwan, India and China agreed on stepwise mutual disengagement. But the P.L.A. didn't pull back.&nbsp;

Almost eight days later, commanders from both sides met again. This was the third round of talks.

Both sides repeated calls for a phased de-escalation. The military level dialogue was unable to break the deadlock.&nbsp;

But India's National Security Adviser Ajit Doval spoke to Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi.&nbsp;

Ajit Doval and Wang Yi are special representatives of India and China on the boundary issue. The NSA said India is strongly committed to ensuring its sovereignty and territorial integrity. Both sides agreed to remain in touch.

There was some de-escalation on the border. The Chinese army moved back tents, vehicles and soldiers by 1-2 kilometres.&nbsp;

But this was way short of the promised complete de-escalation. India wanted china to withdraw to the pre-April 20 positions.

Beijing refused to budge, both sides have held discussions at least four times since July 6.

On July 14, the military level talks went on for almost 15 hours. 10 days later --- there was a diplomatic dialogue.

Followed by the fifth round of military talks on August 2 and the sixth round of talks on the August 8.

Major generals from both sides participated in this one. Then diplomats held talks on August 20. Within 9 days --- China broke its promise once again.

With its latest provocation --- Beijing has taken its discussions with India back to square one.

The Galwan clash was the deadliest in 45 years. 20 Indian soldiers killed in action that took place on June 15. The P.L.A's unprovoked attack on Indian soldiers added fuel to a long-smouldering conflict.

The Galwan clash was the deadliest in 45 years. 20 Indian soldiers killed in action that took place on June 15. The P.L.A's unprovoked attack on Indian soldiers added fuel to a long-smouldering conflict. The galwan clashes led to outrage. There were calls for a complete boycott of China in India. Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held talks with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi. Jaishankar said the Chinese attack was pre-meditated and Wang Yi was reminded of China's agreement to de-escalate and disengage along the line of actual control. However, the very next day, the Chinese government claimed the entire Galwan Valley. The Chinese Foreign Ministry statement said: "The Galwan Valley is located on the chinese side of the lac in the western section of the sino-indian border.” China was never serious about de-escalation. This became obvious in the conversations that followed. On June 22, India and China held military-level talks. This was the second round of dialogue. The first one --- happened on June 6. × Before the clashes in Galwan, India and China agreed on stepwise mutual disengagement. But the P.L.A. didn't pull back. Almost eight days later, commanders from both sides met again. This was the third round of talks. Both sides repeated calls for a phased de-escalation. The military level dialogue was unable to break the deadlock. But India's National Security Adviser Ajit Doval spoke to Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. Ajit Doval and Wang Yi are special representatives of India and China on the boundary issue. The NSA said India is strongly committed to ensuring its sovereignty and territorial integrity. Both sides agreed to remain in touch. There was some de-escalation on the border. The Chinese army moved back tents, vehicles and soldiers by 1-2 kilometres. But this was way short of the promised complete de-escalation. India wanted china to withdraw to the pre-April 20 positions. Beijing refused to budge, both sides have held discussions at least four times since July 6. On July 14, the military level talks went on for almost 15 hours. 10 days later --- there was a diplomatic dialogue. Followed by the fifth round of military talks on August 2 and the sixth round of talks on the August 8. Major generals from both sides participated in this one. Then diplomats held talks on August 20. Within 9 days --- China broke its promise once again. With its latest provocation --- Beijing has taken its discussions with India back to square one.

China's latest provocation on Galwan issue strains ties with India

With the belief that “there’s nothing in this world that can be achieved by one gender alone”, Veeralakshmi had been ferrying passengers as a cab driver since 2016. But now on, she has a bigger responsibility at hand - to ferry those in need of medical help to the nearest medical facility. She’s Tamil Nadu’s first woman ambulance driver and is said to be the only serving woman ambulance driver in India. She was officially appointed for the job, on Monday, at an event in the secretariat.&nbsp;

As the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu flagged-off 118 ambulances at the secretariat on Monday, Veeralakshmi was among the ambulance pilots who drove past. But her achievement towered above all, given that she had broken the gender barrier for many more women to follow suit. She drove past the podium on an Ambulance that was donated to the government by the ZEE group as a part of its Corporate Social Responsibility initiative.&nbsp;

The vehicles are meant to bolster the state’s effort in the fight against the deadly Covid-19 pandemic. 18 of the ambulances that were flagged-off, were donated to the Government by the ZEE Group as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative. These 18 are the first batch, among the total 45 ambulances that the media conglomerate would be handing over to the government.

A diploma-holder in automobile engineering, Veeralakshmi took to driving with the support of an NGO that works for women-empowerment. “About 6 years ago, an NGO supported me in getting the license and since then I’ve been driving different categories of vehicles and ferrying passengers. I’ve driven an Indica and a Swift Dzire and later also got my heavy vehicles license. Finally, it was this experience that also helped me land the new job” she told WION.&nbsp;

It was after the pandemic struck that she was forced to look for other jobs to support her family of four, as her cab-driver husband was also out of regular work amid the lockdown. That was what led her to apply for the ambulance-pilot job vacancy. With all relevant parameters being met, she was selected for the job and offered basic training, ambulance driving lessons, and first-aid lessons.&nbsp;

“The ambulance provided by Zee, which was flagged off by the Chief Minister is the first one that I drove and am confident of handling the other variants as well. I am very happy on having been selected for the job. This is a new task and comes with a huge responsibility and challenge, but I am ready to work hard and deliver” she says confidently.&nbsp;

Veeralakshmi adds that her son is too young to understand that she’s an ambulance-pilot, whereas her daughter knows that she ferries passengers. “People have always questioned me for having chosen to be a driver, but I believe that with adequate training and hard-work anyone can do it, irrespective of gender. When we can provide for our family and also motivate others by walking a different path, there's no reason to hesitate” she signs off, raring to go,save lives.

With the belief that “there’s nothing in this world that can be achieved by one gender alone”, Veeralakshmi had been ferrying passengers as a cab driver since 2016.

With the belief that “there’s nothing in this world that can be achieved by one gender alone”, Veeralakshmi had been ferrying passengers as a cab driver since 2016. But now on, she has a bigger responsibility at hand - to ferry those in need of medical help to the nearest medical facility. She’s Tamil Nadu’s first woman ambulance driver and is said to be the only serving woman ambulance driver in India. She was officially appointed for the job, on Monday, at an event in the secretariat. As the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu flagged-off 118 ambulances at the secretariat on Monday, Veeralakshmi was among the ambulance pilots who drove past. But her achievement towered above all, given that she had broken the gender barrier for many more women to follow suit. She drove past the podium on an Ambulance that was donated to the government by the ZEE group as a part of its Corporate Social Responsibility initiative. The vehicles are meant to bolster the state’s effort in the fight against the deadly Covid-19 pandemic. 18 of the ambulances that were flagged-off, were donated to the Government by the ZEE Group as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative. These 18 are the first batch, among the total 45 ambulances that the media conglomerate would be handing over to the government. A diploma-holder in automobile engineering, Veeralakshmi took to driving with the support of an NGO that works for women-empowerment. “About 6 years ago, an NGO supported me in getting the license and since then I’ve been driving different categories of vehicles and ferrying passengers. I’ve driven an Indica and a Swift Dzire and later also got my heavy vehicles license. Finally, it was this experience that also helped me land the new job” she told WION. It was after the pandemic struck that she was forced to look for other jobs to support her family of four, as her cab-driver husband was also out of regular work amid the lockdown. That was what led her to apply for the ambulance-pilot job vacancy. With all relevant parameters being met, she was selected for the job and offered basic training, ambulance driving lessons, and first-aid lessons. “The ambulance provided by Zee, which was flagged off by the Chief Minister is the first one that I drove and am confident of handling the other variants as well. I am very happy on having been selected for the job. This is a new task and comes with a huge responsibility and challenge, but I am ready to work hard and deliver” she says confidently. Veeralakshmi adds that her son is too young to understand that she’s an ambulance-pilot, whereas her daughter knows that she ferries passengers. “People have always questioned me for having chosen to be a driver, but I believe that with adequate training and hard-work anyone can do it, irrespective of gender. When we can provide for our family and also motivate others by walking a different path, there's no reason to hesitate” she signs off, raring to go,save lives.

Ready for big responsibility and challenges says Veeralakshmi, Tamil Nadu’s first woman Ambulance driver 

A group of Indian astronomers have discovered one of the farthest Star galaxies in the universe. 
 
"It is a matter of pride that India’s first Multi-Wavelength Space Observatory “AstroSat” has detected extreme-UV light from a galaxy located 9.3 billion light-years away from Earth.The galaxy called AUDFs01 was discovered by a team of Astronomers led by Dr Kanak Saha from the Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA) Pune," said Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh. 
 
The importance and uniqueness of this original discovery can be made out from the fact that it has been reported in the leading international journal “Nature Astronomy” published from Britain. 
 
India’s AstroSat/UVIT was able to achieve this unique feat because the background noise in the UVIT detector is much less than one on the Hubble Space Telescope of US based NASA.

Dr Jitendra Singh has congratulated India’s Space Scientists for once again proving to the world that India’s capability in Space technology has risen to a distinguished level from where our scientists are now offering cues and giving leads to the Space scientists in other parts of the world. 
 
According to Professor ShyamTandon, the excellent spatial resolution and high sensitivity is a tribute to the hard work of the UVIT core team of scientists for over a decade.

On January 6 this year, Indian astronomers had found a mysterious ring of hydrogen gas around a far-away galaxy that does not generate any star.

On August 25, a global team led by scientists had discovered one of the earliest galaxies in extreme ultraviolet light. AstroSat, India’s first multi-wavelength satellite that has five unique X-ray and ultraviolet telescopes working in tandem, has detected extreme UV light from a galaxy called AUDFs01, 9.3 billion light-years away from Earth.

(With inputs from agencies)

A group of Indian astronomers have discovered one of the farthest Star galaxies in the universe. "It is a matter of pride that India’s first Multi-Wavelength Space Observatory “AstroSat” has detected extreme-UV light from a galaxy located 9.

A group of Indian astronomers have discovered one of the farthest Star galaxies in the universe. "It is a matter of pride that India’s first Multi-Wavelength Space Observatory “AstroSat” has detected extreme-UV light from a galaxy located 9.3 billion light-years away from Earth.The galaxy called AUDFs01 was discovered by a team of Astronomers led by Dr Kanak Saha from the Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA) Pune," said Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh. The importance and uniqueness of this original discovery can be made out from the fact that it has been reported in the leading international journal “Nature Astronomy” published from Britain. India’s AstroSat/UVIT was able to achieve this unique feat because the background noise in the UVIT detector is much less than one on the Hubble Space Telescope of US based NASA. Dr Jitendra Singh has congratulated India’s Space Scientists for once again proving to the world that India’s capability in Space technology has risen to a distinguished level from where our scientists are now offering cues and giving leads to the Space scientists in other parts of the world. According to Professor ShyamTandon, the excellent spatial resolution and high sensitivity is a tribute to the hard work of the UVIT core team of scientists for over a decade. On January 6 this year, Indian astronomers had found a mysterious ring of hydrogen gas around a far-away galaxy that does not generate any star. On August 25, a global team led by scientists had discovered one of the earliest galaxies in extreme ultraviolet light. AstroSat, India’s first multi-wavelength satellite that has five unique X-ray and ultraviolet telescopes working in tandem, has detected extreme UV light from a galaxy called AUDFs01, 9.3 billion light-years away from Earth. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian Astronomers discover one of the farthest Star galaxies in the universe

Indian Law and Justice Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad wrote to Facebook’s Mark Zuckerberg on September 1, amid reports of the company’s selective filtration of content, where certain voices were amplified while others were stifled.

Prasad said that Facebook has been a novel experiment in democratising the expression of people and giving platform to millions of citizens to freely express their views. "This experiment should not be allowed to be hijacked by a vested lobby that abhors free speech”, he said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/technology/facebook-transparent-non-partisan-says-india-head-amid-political-controversy-322267" hreflang="en">Facebook 'transparent, non-partisan', says India head amid political controversy</a>

“I’ve been informed that in run up to 2019 Lok Sabha Polls, there was concerted effort by Facebook India to not just delete pages or substantially reduce their reach but also offer no right of appeal to affected people who're supportive of right-of-centre ideology”, he wrote.

The letter by Prasad highlighted instances of bias by Facebook against the incumbent Bharatiya Janta Party. Prasad said that leaks in media about Facebook are a result of an internal ideology war in the company.

Ravi Shankar Prasad added how Facebook India was dominated by people with a certain ideology.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/technology/india-parliamentary-panel-to-question-facebook-on-content-controversy-source-322130" hreflang="en">India parliamentary panel to question Facebook on content controversy: Source</a>

Through “selective leaks” from within the company, the ideology war within the company&nbsp;was ignored, he suggested. He added that media reports prove that the company is run by people “who belong to a particular political belief”.&nbsp;“As a transnational digital platform, Facebook must not only be fair and neutral, but also visibly seen to be so, to users of diverse beliefs and ideologies”, he added.

A report by the Wall Street Journal among many US outlets claimed that Facebook had been amplifying pro-government voices in India.

Owing to such allegations, Facebook’s representatives will appear in front of a parliamentary committee on September 2. The committee will be headed by Congress MP Shashi Tharoor.

Facebook India on August 21&nbsp;said the platform is "open, transparent and non-partisan" where people are allowed to "express themselves freely".

"Facebook is and always has been an open, transparent and non-partisan platform where people can express themselves freely. Over the last few days, we have been accused of bias in the way we enforce our policies," Facebook India Vice President and Managing Director Ajit Mohan had said in a blog post.&nbsp;

"Our Community Standards define what stays on our platform and are enforced globally... We enforce these policies globally without regard to anyone's political position, party affiliation or religious and cultural belief. We have removed and will continue to remove content posted by public figures in India when it violates our Community Standards," he wrote.

Indian Law and Justice Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad wrote to Facebook’s Mark Zuckerberg on September 1, amid reports of the company’s selective filtration of content, where certain voices were amplified while others were stifled.

Indian Law and Justice Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad wrote to Facebook’s Mark Zuckerberg on September 1, amid reports of the company’s selective filtration of content, where certain voices were amplified while others were stifled. Prasad said that Facebook has been a novel experiment in democratising the expression of people and giving platform to millions of citizens to freely express their views. "This experiment should not be allowed to be hijacked by a vested lobby that abhors free speech”, he said. Also read: Facebook 'transparent, non-partisan', says India head amid political controversy “I’ve been informed that in run up to 2019 Lok Sabha Polls, there was concerted effort by Facebook India to not just delete pages or substantially reduce their reach but also offer no right of appeal to affected people who're supportive of right-of-centre ideology”, he wrote. The letter by Prasad highlighted instances of bias by Facebook against the incumbent Bharatiya Janta Party. Prasad said that leaks in media about Facebook are a result of an internal ideology war in the company. Ravi Shankar Prasad added how Facebook India was dominated by people with a certain ideology. Also read: India parliamentary panel to question Facebook on content controversy: Source Through “selective leaks” from within the company, the ideology war within the company was ignored, he suggested. He added that media reports prove that the company is run by people “who belong to a particular political belief”. “As a transnational digital platform, Facebook must not only be fair and neutral, but also visibly seen to be so, to users of diverse beliefs and ideologies”, he added. A report by the Wall Street Journal among many US outlets claimed that Facebook had been amplifying pro-government voices in India. Owing to such allegations, Facebook’s representatives will appear in front of a parliamentary committee on September 2. The committee will be headed by Congress MP Shashi Tharoor. Facebook India on August 21 said the platform is "open, transparent and non-partisan" where people are allowed to "express themselves freely". "Facebook is and always has been an open, transparent and non-partisan platform where people can express themselves freely. Over the last few days, we have been accused of bias in the way we enforce our policies," Facebook India Vice President and Managing Director Ajit Mohan had said in a blog post. "Our Community Standards define what stays on our platform and are enforced globally... We enforce these policies globally without regard to anyone's political position, party affiliation or religious and cultural belief. We have removed and will continue to remove content posted by public figures in India when it violates our Community Standards," he wrote.

Law Minister Prasad urges Zuckerberg to protect FB from 'a lobby that abhors free speech'

The ties between India and China are "extremely consequential" for both the countries and the rest of the world, external affairs Minister S Jaishankar said on Monday, observing that it was important for the two sides to reach some kind of "understanding or equilibrium".

In an interactive session at the US-India Strategic Partnership Forum, Jaishankar said, like every other country in the world, India is also cognisant of the rise of China but added that India's rise has also been a global story.

The external affairs minister was answering questions relating to China's rise, its impact on India as well as ties between the two countries at the virtual event.

Jaishankar's remarks come in the backdrop of the four-month-long bitter border row between Indian and Chinese armies in eastern Ladakh which has led to a major strain in their overall ties including on trade and investment relationship. Both sides are engaged in talks to resolve the row.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/china-demands-india-withdraw-troops-from-border-to-avoid-escalation-324316">Also Read:&nbsp;China demands India withdraw troops from border to avoid escalation</a>

"Obviously like every other country in the world, we are very cognisant of the rise of China. We are an immediate neighbour of China. So obviously if you are a neighbour, you are very directly impacted by the rise of what I say in my book a potential global power," he said, referring to his yet-to-be-released book 'The India Way: Strategies for an Uncertain World'.

The external affairs minister said India too has been rising but it may not be to the same degree and at the same pace as China.

"But if you look at the last 30 years, India's rise is also a major global story. If you have two countries, two societies with a billion people each with the history and culture that they have, it is very important that they reach some kind of understanding or equilibrium between them," he said, without referring to any contentious issue.

"And this is a practical world. If a country is going to get more powerful, we are going to see its influence in geographies we have not seen before, we are going to see activities and capabilities that we have not seen before," he added.

"We will see that from China and I dare say, in some areas, they will see it of us," he added.

Talking about what he called the "modus vivendi" between India and China, he said the relationship is "extremely consequential" for both the countries and "actually for the rest of the world".

Asked about the close ties between China and Pakistan, he said it is not something new as it goes back to the early 1960s.

"Aspects of it have been of concern to us before. Even that is not new and obviously, that is something we factor in our relationship with both countries," he said.

About India's ties with the US, he said the relationship has been on an upswing in various key areas like trade and investment, technology and defence and security, adding there has been a much stronger "convergence of interests" between the two sides.

"We look upon it not as something which is tailored to a particular situation or necessarily focused on some country," he said, noting that the two sides have interests that will result in the greater good for the world.

Talking about regional issues, he said India's growth has to be a lifting tide for the entire region. At the same time, he pitched for greater investment by India in the neighbourhood.

Jaishankar also highlighted India's focus on self-reliance to boost economic growth as well as efforts to improve the overall prosperity of the region.

"India's growth has to be a lifting tide for the entire region," he said adding the country needs to invest in the neighbourhood and build more connectivity projects.

At the same time, he said, "we are actually doing it," he said.

Jaishankar said India has been a supplier of electricity to most of its neighbours in the last five years besides providing fuel to many of the countries.

He said India has been involved in developing waterways, ports, railway networks and other projects in the region.

"There is a lot of regional investment which India is making today and our sense is that you are going to get a much better-integrated region, a much more connected region. But one needs to go beyond that," he said.

On India's focus on self-reliance, he said if the country is seeking to expand its manufacturing capabilities, there would be a whole lot of business opportunities for foreign investors.

"We are much more interested in global value chains now passing through India using India's production capacities as the path of the chain," he said.

Jaishankar said a more knowledge-driven world economy will require more "trusted talent" and that is an opportunity for India, adding immigration will be a win-win proposition for both sides.

The ties between India and China are "extremely consequential" for both the countries and the rest of the world, external affairs Minister S Jaishankar said on Monday, observing that it was important for the two sides to reach some kind of "understanding or equilibrium".

The ties between India and China are "extremely consequential" for both the countries and the rest of the world, external affairs Minister S Jaishankar said on Monday, observing that it was important for the two sides to reach some kind of "understanding or equilibrium". In an interactive session at the US-India Strategic Partnership Forum, Jaishankar said, like every other country in the world, India is also cognisant of the rise of China but added that India's rise has also been a global story. The external affairs minister was answering questions relating to China's rise, its impact on India as well as ties between the two countries at the virtual event. Jaishankar's remarks come in the backdrop of the four-month-long bitter border row between Indian and Chinese armies in eastern Ladakh which has led to a major strain in their overall ties including on trade and investment relationship. Both sides are engaged in talks to resolve the row. Also Read: China demands India withdraw troops from border to avoid escalation "Obviously like every other country in the world, we are very cognisant of the rise of China. We are an immediate neighbour of China. So obviously if you are a neighbour, you are very directly impacted by the rise of what I say in my book a potential global power," he said, referring to his yet-to-be-released book 'The India Way: Strategies for an Uncertain World'. The external affairs minister said India too has been rising but it may not be to the same degree and at the same pace as China. "But if you look at the last 30 years, India's rise is also a major global story. If you have two countries, two societies with a billion people each with the history and culture that they have, it is very important that they reach some kind of understanding or equilibrium between them," he said, without referring to any contentious issue. "And this is a practical world. If a country is going to get more powerful, we are going to see its influence in geographies we have not seen before, we are going to see activities and capabilities that we have not seen before," he added. "We will see that from China and I dare say, in some areas, they will see it of us," he added. Talking about what he called the "modus vivendi" between India and China, he said the relationship is "extremely consequential" for both the countries and "actually for the rest of the world". Asked about the close ties between China and Pakistan, he said it is not something new as it goes back to the early 1960s. "Aspects of it have been of concern to us before. Even that is not new and obviously, that is something we factor in our relationship with both countries," he said. About India's ties with the US, he said the relationship has been on an upswing in various key areas like trade and investment, technology and defence and security, adding there has been a much stronger "convergence of interests" between the two sides. "We look upon it not as something which is tailored to a particular situation or necessarily focused on some country," he said, noting that the two sides have interests that will result in the greater good for the world. Talking about regional issues, he said India's growth has to be a lifting tide for the entire region. At the same time, he pitched for greater investment by India in the neighbourhood. Jaishankar also highlighted India's focus on self-reliance to boost economic growth as well as efforts to improve the overall prosperity of the region. "India's growth has to be a lifting tide for the entire region," he said adding the country needs to invest in the neighbourhood and build more connectivity projects. At the same time, he said, "we are actually doing it," he said. Jaishankar said India has been a supplier of electricity to most of its neighbours in the last five years besides providing fuel to many of the countries. He said India has been involved in developing waterways, ports, railway networks and other projects in the region. "There is a lot of regional investment which India is making today and our sense is that you are going to get a much better-integrated region, a much more connected region. But one needs to go beyond that," he said. On India's focus on self-reliance, he said if the country is seeking to expand its manufacturing capabilities, there would be a whole lot of business opportunities for foreign investors. "We are much more interested in global value chains now passing through India using India's production capacities as the path of the chain," he said. Jaishankar said a more knowledge-driven world economy will require more "trusted talent" and that is an opportunity for India, adding immigration will be a win-win proposition for both sides.

Important for India, China to reach some kind of understanding: Jaishankar at US-India Strategic Partnership Forum

The death toll in India due to deadly covid-19 climbed to 65,288 with 819 new fatalities being reported in a span of 24 hours, the data updated at 8 am showed.

On Monday, Maharashtra reported 184 deaths, Karnataka has added 113, followed by Tamil Nadu (91), AP (85), and UP (63) while overall 819 Covid-19 deaths were recorded.

These five states have reported 536 deaths which accounts for 65.4% of the deaths added to the total death tally. &nbsp;&nbsp;

As per the Union health ministry, Maharashtra has reported 11,852 new coronavirus cases, Andhra Pradesh (10,004), Karnataka (6,495), Tamil Nadu (5,956), and Uttar Pradesh (4,782) in the past 24 hours. 
 
Meanwhile, The COVID-19 case fatality rate has further declined to 1.77 per cent.

There are 785,996 active cases of coronavirus infection in the country which comprises 21.29 per cent of the total caseload, the data stated.

India's COVID-19 tally had crossed the 20-lakh mark on August 7 and went past 30 lakh on August 23.

According to the ICMR, a cumulative total of 43,324,834 samples have been tested up to August 31 with 1,016,920 samples being tested on Monday. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

The death toll in India due to deadly covid-19 climbed to 65,288 with 819 new fatalities being reported in a span of 24 hours, the data updated at 8 am showed. On Monday, Maharashtra reported 184 deaths, Karnataka has added 113, followed by Tamil Nadu (91), AP (85), and UP (63) while overall 819 Covid-19 deaths were recorded.

The death toll in India due to deadly covid-19 climbed to 65,288 with 819 new fatalities being reported in a span of 24 hours, the data updated at 8 am showed. On Monday, Maharashtra reported 184 deaths, Karnataka has added 113, followed by Tamil Nadu (91), AP (85), and UP (63) while overall 819 Covid-19 deaths were recorded. These five states have reported 536 deaths which accounts for 65.4% of the deaths added to the total death tally. As per the Union health ministry, Maharashtra has reported 11,852 new coronavirus cases, Andhra Pradesh (10,004), Karnataka (6,495), Tamil Nadu (5,956), and Uttar Pradesh (4,782) in the past 24 hours. Meanwhile, The COVID-19 case fatality rate has further declined to 1.77 per cent. There are 785,996 active cases of coronavirus infection in the country which comprises 21.29 per cent of the total caseload, the data stated. India's COVID-19 tally had crossed the 20-lakh mark on August 7 and went past 30 lakh on August 23. According to the ICMR, a cumulative total of 43,324,834 samples have been tested up to August 31 with 1,016,920 samples being tested on Monday. (With inputs from agencies)

Coronavirus in India: These five states account for 65% of deaths in the last 24 hours

The Government of Malaysia will block Indians from entering the country starting Monday due to the high rate of increase in COVID-19 positive cases in India. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-cases-cross-35-million-in-india-with-69921-new-cases-324418">Also read | COVID-19: Cases cross 3.5 million in India with 69,921 new cases</a> 
 
The ban will also simultaneously apply on citizens of Indonesia and the Philippines.

People with long-term passes, students, expatriates, permanent residents as well as family members of Malaysians will be highly affected by this decision.

All foreign tourists have been banned from entry since March.

Malaysia extended measures to curb the pandemic until the end of the year as the virus “is still actively spreading across the world," Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin said in a speech on Friday.

Meanwhile, With 69,921 people testing positive for coronavirus infection, India's COVID-19 tally mounted to 3,691,166, while recoveries surged to 2,839,882 on Tuesday pushing the recovery rate to 76.94 per cent, according to the Union Health Ministry data.

The death toll climbed to 65,288 with 819 new fatalities being reported in a span of 24 hours, the data updated at 8 am showed.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Government of Malaysia will block Indians from entering the country starting Monday due to the high rate of increase in COVID-19 positive cases in India. Also read | COVID-19: Cases cross 3.

The Government of Malaysia will block Indians from entering the country starting Monday due to the high rate of increase in COVID-19 positive cases in India. Also read | COVID-19: Cases cross 3.5 million in India with 69,921 new cases The ban will also simultaneously apply on citizens of Indonesia and the Philippines. People with long-term passes, students, expatriates, permanent residents as well as family members of Malaysians will be highly affected by this decision. All foreign tourists have been banned from entry since March. Malaysia extended measures to curb the pandemic until the end of the year as the virus “is still actively spreading across the world," Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin said in a speech on Friday. Meanwhile, With 69,921 people testing positive for coronavirus infection, India's COVID-19 tally mounted to 3,691,166, while recoveries surged to 2,839,882 on Tuesday pushing the recovery rate to 76.94 per cent, according to the Union Health Ministry data. The death toll climbed to 65,288 with 819 new fatalities being reported in a span of 24 hours, the data updated at 8 am showed. (With inputs from agencies)

Malaysia bans Indians from entering the country due to growing number of COVID-19 infections

As per the data released by the National Statistical Office (NSO), India’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) for the April-June quarter (Q1) slipped by a sharp 23.9 per cent.

First GDP numbers during COVID times

Former Indian President Pranab Mukherjee passes away yesterday at the age of 84. He was remembered not only by Indian leaders and citizens but getting last tributes from global leaders. America's Former Vice President Joe Biden and nominee for President this year tweeted 'He was a devout Public servant'. Russian President Vladimir Putin also tweeted and said 'Pranab Mukherjee was Russia's friend'.

World leaders remember Pranab Mukherjee

A French woman was arrested after she made what was called a 'nude' video at Lakshman Jhoola, a place sacred in Hinduism. The woman is currently out on bail. She was approached by the police on August 27 in Uttarakhand.

Lakshman Jhoola is a Holy bridge crissing the sacred Ganga River. Hindus believe that it was here Lakshmana, the mythical warrior and a deity crossed the river using Jute ropes.

Police have told the media that the woman, identified as Marie-Helene, shot the video on the bridge.

"She shot the video at Lakshman Jhula -- it is considered a holy bridge. She then did an obscene photoshoot at her hotel.The photos she shot were nude and she posted them on Instagram," said senior police officer RK Saklani. He was quoted by the CNN.

It is being reportedt that local followers of the woman's Instagram account alerted the authorities after they spotted the video and photos on Instagram.

Marie-Helene has apologised for her actions. She has been quoted in the media for being sorry for causing "...hurt to the local community". She has added that she was "lacking awareness on cultural specificities" 
&nbsp;

A French woman was arrested after she made what was called a 'nude' video at Lakshman Jhoola, a place sacred in Hinduism. The woman is currently out on bail. She was approached by the police on August 27 in Uttarakhand.

A French woman was arrested after she made what was called a 'nude' video at Lakshman Jhoola, a place sacred in Hinduism. The woman is currently out on bail. She was approached by the police on August 27 in Uttarakhand. Lakshman Jhoola is a Holy bridge crissing the sacred Ganga River. Hindus believe that it was here Lakshmana, the mythical warrior and a deity crossed the river using Jute ropes. Police have told the media that the woman, identified as Marie-Helene, shot the video on the bridge. "She shot the video at Lakshman Jhula -- it is considered a holy bridge. She then did an obscene photoshoot at her hotel.The photos she shot were nude and she posted them on Instagram," said senior police officer RK Saklani. He was quoted by the CNN. It is being reportedt that local followers of the woman's Instagram account alerted the authorities after they spotted the video and photos on Instagram. Marie-Helene has apologised for her actions. She has been quoted in the media for being sorry for causing "...hurt to the local community". She has added that she was "lacking awareness on cultural specificities"

Frenchwoman arrested for making 'nude' video on Lakshman Jhoola, the Holy bridge on river Ganga

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami flagged-off 118 ambulances at the Secretariat in the city. The vehicles are meant to bolster the state’s effort in the fight against the deadly COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

Eighteen ambulances that were flagged-off were donated to the government by the ZEE group as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility(CSR) initiative. The ambulances are the first batch, among the total set of 45 ambulances that the media conglomerate would be handing over to the government.

The ambulances are set to join the "108 Emergency service" that is run across the state of Tamil Nadu to provide rapid and free-of-cost medical transport to the nearest medical facilities. Of the ambulances launched on Monday, 108 units would serve as means for transport for citizens in case of a medical emergency and the 10 others are meant to be mobile blood banks.&nbsp;

In the event which was presided over by the chief minister, the state government commended the efforts of ZEE group for having donated the ambulances to strengthen the state's health infrastructure at a time when the country has been fighting the pandemic.

As on Sunday, Tamil Nadu has recorded a total of over 4.22 lakh COVID-19 cases which includes 3.62 lakh recoveries and 7,231 deaths. The capital city of Chennai alone has seen over 1.34 lakh cases. The state is witnessing nearly 6,000 cases in recent weeks and the state had performed over 4.5million RT-PCR coronavirus tests.&nbsp;

On the sidelines of the handing over ceremony and a day ahead of the Unlock 4.0 guidelines coming into effect across Tamil Nadu, the health secretary, Dr. J. Radhakrishnan spoke to WION.&nbsp;

WION: Starting September, Tamil Nadu is opening up as a part of Unlock 4.0. Everything, except for Educational institutions is opening up. How do we foresee a spike in cases and what is the government doing to prevent this spike ?&nbsp;

Dr. J. Radhakrishnan: Regard to COVID-19, the regular message during all phases of unlock has been to follow the &nbsp;Least Common denominator of - mask-wearing, physical distance and frequent hand-washing and cocooning the vulnerable. We have decided that every Government and private organization will have a Covid monitoring officer, with whom the government will interact. We have expanded the testing capacity to be able to conduct 1.5lakh RT-PCR tests in a day.&nbsp;

Even in the case of remotest symptom, we urge the public to come and get tested. We will continue the aggressive policy of testing 75,000 tests per day. We need public cooperation, this relaxation comes with a lot of duties. They need to understand that it’ll be a win-win if we all work together until there is a specific vaccine or cure.&nbsp;

WION: The daily case numbers in Tamil Nadu are consistent, despite the increase in the number of tests done. Daily cases have been around 5500-6000, how do you explain it?

Dr. J. Radhakrishnan: Numbers as far as the whole state is concerned, are consistent.&nbsp;

When we look at the districts, there is a marked shift. Earlier it was Chennai and surrounding districts, but now it is Coimbatore, Salem and Cuddalore. Earlier, our results were from about 60,000 RT-PCR tests but yesterday it was almost 83,000 tests. Now we are looking at positivity - roughly 9 districts are having more than 10% positivity rate.&nbsp;

Overall, our state’s weekly positivity has come down to below 8 per cent. We are de-segregating the data, giving district-level dashboards to collectors, informing them what is happening and getting feedback from districts. We are also seeing urban-rural differences from various pockets.&nbsp;

WION: As far as Chennai is concerned, about two months ago the cases were 2000 per day and now its come down by half. How is this turnaround made possible in terms of strategy?&nbsp;

Dr. J. Radhakrishnan: For Chennai, the Honorable Chief Minister pushed us to go in for aggressive testing - we went from 3000 tests per day to 13,000. We have a very focussed, specific strategy for slums, for row houses and for workplaces.&nbsp;

The city was divided into 15 zones and we had a coordinating mechanism, we started control rooms in every zone. Even senior ministers were assigned for that work, apart from that we had a marked increase in fever camps.&nbsp;

Even those with remotest symptoms were tested near the fever camps. It was a lot of micro-level and street level planning and we are continuing same.&nbsp;

As of now, North Chennai cases have come down and workplaces and business districts cases are on the rise.&nbsp;

WION: As a part of Unlock 4.0, does it mean that people coming in via flights or train will quarantine be relaxed or are any new guidelines in the works ?&nbsp;

Dr. J. Radhakrishnan: There is a separate guideline coming in for that also. For international flights there is 96hrs quarantine if they do RT-PCR test. Even then, when they come based on international flights, there is a specific kind of home quarantine or institutional quarantine.&nbsp;

In case the passengers are not tested, they will be tested. Detailed and separate comprehensive guidelines based on Government of India directives is being prepared. This will be issued in consultation with the Chief Minister and the public department.&nbsp;

WION: The Sero-survey that was performed in parts of Tamil Nadu, how have the results been? And what is the inference from the sero-survey ?

Dr. J. Radhakrishnan: So far, officially they have not submitted the sero-survey. They did it in parts of Chennai and we asked them to do it in other parts of the state as well. We are also awaiting.&nbsp;

Personally, I feel, the biggest challenge is that, even now, certain people avoid coming to the hospital for the first 3-4 days and some don’t even test. So they end up with severe lung involvement and that is why we start losing people.&nbsp;

That is the message we are giving, we urge people to come to the hospital before they get heavy lung involvement, so that they can get cured with available medicines.

Whether the sero-survey shows a higher disease prevalence and the disease comes down is one part. But we should really reduce the case fatality and that is the focus area. Last few weeks it has come down and now case fatality is at 1.71 per cent&nbsp;and we are want to slowly bring it to at least 1 per cent.&nbsp;

WION: There were some projections made by the MGR University pertaining to how the COVID-19 pandemic would evolve until March next year. What is the government’s approach towards those numbers and data?&nbsp;

Dr. J. Radhakrishnan: Various agencies give their projections. At the cutting-edge level we are looking at much more simpler messages, because more than creating a scare, our job is to sensitize people. At present, whatever others say, the full safeguard is mask-wearing, hand-washing, physical distancing and cocooning the elders.&nbsp;

If these are followed and if aggressive testing is done, even if somebody wants to get tested, they are able to get a test result within 24hours and that too - the reliable RT-PCR test.&nbsp;

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami flagged-off 118 ambulances at the Secretariat in the city. The vehicles are meant to bolster the state’s effort in the fight against the deadly COVID-19 pandemic.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami flagged-off 118 ambulances at the Secretariat in the city. The vehicles are meant to bolster the state’s effort in the fight against the deadly COVID-19 pandemic. Eighteen ambulances that were flagged-off were donated to the government by the ZEE group as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility(CSR) initiative. The ambulances are the first batch, among the total set of 45 ambulances that the media conglomerate would be handing over to the government. The ambulances are set to join the "108 Emergency service" that is run across the state of Tamil Nadu to provide rapid and free-of-cost medical transport to the nearest medical facilities. Of the ambulances launched on Monday, 108 units would serve as means for transport for citizens in case of a medical emergency and the 10 others are meant to be mobile blood banks. In the event which was presided over by the chief minister, the state government commended the efforts of ZEE group for having donated the ambulances to strengthen the state's health infrastructure at a time when the country has been fighting the pandemic. As on Sunday, Tamil Nadu has recorded a total of over 4.22 lakh COVID-19 cases which includes 3.62 lakh recoveries and 7,231 deaths. The capital city of Chennai alone has seen over 1.34 lakh cases. The state is witnessing nearly 6,000 cases in recent weeks and the state had performed over 4.5million RT-PCR coronavirus tests. On the sidelines of the handing over ceremony and a day ahead of the Unlock 4.0 guidelines coming into effect across Tamil Nadu, the health secretary, Dr. J. Radhakrishnan spoke to WION. WION: Starting September, Tamil Nadu is opening up as a part of Unlock 4.0. Everything, except for Educational institutions is opening up. How do we foresee a spike in cases and what is the government doing to prevent this spike ? Dr. J. Radhakrishnan: Regard to COVID-19, the regular message during all phases of unlock has been to follow the Least Common denominator of - mask-wearing, physical distance and frequent hand-washing and cocooning the vulnerable. We have decided that every Government and private organization will have a Covid monitoring officer, with whom the government will interact. We have expanded the testing capacity to be able to conduct 1.5lakh RT-PCR tests in a day. Even in the case of remotest symptom, we urge the public to come and get tested. We will continue the aggressive policy of testing 75,000 tests per day. We need public cooperation, this relaxation comes with a lot of duties. They need to understand that it’ll be a win-win if we all work together until there is a specific vaccine or cure. WION: The daily case numbers in Tamil Nadu are consistent, despite the increase in the number of tests done. Daily cases have been around 5500-6000, how do you explain it? Dr. J. Radhakrishnan: Numbers as far as the whole state is concerned, are consistent. When we look at the districts, there is a marked shift. Earlier it was Chennai and surrounding districts, but now it is Coimbatore, Salem and Cuddalore. Earlier, our results were from about 60,000 RT-PCR tests but yesterday it was almost 83,000 tests. Now we are looking at positivity - roughly 9 districts are having more than 10% positivity rate. Overall, our state’s weekly positivity has come down to below 8 per cent. We are de-segregating the data, giving district-level dashboards to collectors, informing them what is happening and getting feedback from districts. We are also seeing urban-rural differences from various pockets. WION: As far as Chennai is concerned, about two months ago the cases were 2000 per day and now its come down by half. How is this turnaround made possible in terms of strategy? Dr. J. Radhakrishnan: For Chennai, the Honorable Chief Minister pushed us to go in for aggressive testing - we went from 3000 tests per day to 13,000. We have a very focussed, specific strategy for slums, for row houses and for workplaces. The city was divided into 15 zones and we had a coordinating mechanism, we started control rooms in every zone. Even senior ministers were assigned for that work, apart from that we had a marked increase in fever camps. Even those with remotest symptoms were tested near the fever camps. It was a lot of micro-level and street level planning and we are continuing same. As of now, North Chennai cases have come down and workplaces and business districts cases are on the rise. WION: As a part of Unlock 4.0, does it mean that people coming in via flights or train will quarantine be relaxed or are any new guidelines in the works ? Dr. J. Radhakrishnan: There is a separate guideline coming in for that also. For international flights there is 96hrs quarantine if they do RT-PCR test. Even then, when they come based on international flights, there is a specific kind of home quarantine or institutional quarantine. In case the passengers are not tested, they will be tested. Detailed and separate comprehensive guidelines based on Government of India directives is being prepared. This will be issued in consultation with the Chief Minister and the public department. WION: The Sero-survey that was performed in parts of Tamil Nadu, how have the results been? And what is the inference from the sero-survey ? Dr. J. Radhakrishnan: So far, officially they have not submitted the sero-survey. They did it in parts of Chennai and we asked them to do it in other parts of the state as well. We are also awaiting. Personally, I feel, the biggest challenge is that, even now, certain people avoid coming to the hospital for the first 3-4 days and some don’t even test. So they end up with severe lung involvement and that is why we start losing people. That is the message we are giving, we urge people to come to the hospital before they get heavy lung involvement, so that they can get cured with available medicines. Whether the sero-survey shows a higher disease prevalence and the disease comes down is one part. But we should really reduce the case fatality and that is the focus area. Last few weeks it has come down and now case fatality is at 1.71 per cent and we are want to slowly bring it to at least 1 per cent. WION: There were some projections made by the MGR University pertaining to how the COVID-19 pandemic would evolve until March next year. What is the government’s approach towards those numbers and data? Dr. J. Radhakrishnan: Various agencies give their projections. At the cutting-edge level we are looking at much more simpler messages, because more than creating a scare, our job is to sensitize people. At present, whatever others say, the full safeguard is mask-wearing, hand-washing, physical distancing and cocooning the elders. If these are followed and if aggressive testing is done, even if somebody wants to get tested, they are able to get a test result within 24hours and that too - the reliable RT-PCR test.

Delaying COVID-19 tests and hospitalization a major threat, Tamil Nadu health secy Dr. J Radhakrishnan to WION

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Delaying COVID-19 tests and hospitalization a major threat, Tamil Nadu health secy Dr. J Radhakrishnan to WION