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In what is said to be the first-ever such instance in the history of the Sabarimala Ayyappan temple, the Devaswom board on its own, has come forward to perform a special Puja for the veteran singer SP Balasubrahmanyam. An ‘Usha Puja’ followed by a ‘Gaana-archana’ (Musical offering) was performed for Lord Ayyappa, the presiding deity of the temple on Friday. &nbsp;Following the Puja rituals, a musician of the temple’s governing board played the Naadhaswaram, (a wind-based instrument) to the tune of SPB’s national award-winning song Shankara Naadhashareera from the film Shakaranbharanam(1979). Though this is a film song, it is dedicated to Lord Shiva.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/sp-balasubrahmanyam-film-industry-unites-to-pray-for-recovery-of-veteran-singer-321680#:~:text=The%20biggest%20names%20in%20Indian,a%20private%20hospital%20in%20Chennai.">SP Balasubrahmanyam: Film Industry unites to pray for recovery of veteran singer</a>

SPB, the 74-year old singer, who has won multiple national awards and Filmfare awards, is in a critical condition at the MGM hospital in Chennai. He was admitted on August 5 and since then, his condition has deteriorated and the singer is under ventilator and ECMO (Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation) support in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).&nbsp;

The famous hill shrine in Kerala’s Pathanamthitta district was opened on August 17 for monthly rituals but has been out of bounds for devotees, given the COVID-19 pandemic guidelines. Under these circumstances and considering the widespread prayers from people, the temple’s governing body performed the special pujas for his recovery and well-being.&nbsp;

It is notable that the singer has sung several songs in praise of the deity Swami Ayyappa. In 2015, he was awarded the Harivarasanam award that is instituted by the Kerala Government and the Travancore Devaswom Board, which manages the temple. The award is given to a person for their contribution to propagating the spirit of secularism, equanimity, and the universal brotherhood of Sabarimala through the songs.

SPB’s 2015 visit to the temple to receive the award is said to be his maiden visit. On receiving the award, SPB had said that music was his mother tongue and also sang his national-award winning song from 1979 - Shankara Naadha Shareera. He had also said that the Sabarimala Ayyappan temple was a universal place of worship where religion, caste, creed, social status did not matter, thus making it a model for the rest of the world.&nbsp;

“This Usha Puja and special ‘Gaana-Archana’ is for the recovery and well-being of the great Singer SPB. Cinema stars and commoners are praying for him alike and we have also spoken to his family. Musicians from the temple played three different instruments as a part of the musical offering. Ganesh, a Naadhaswaram player had also played the tune of SPB’s iconic 1979 song which is widely popular across Kerala and all other southern states. Such a musical offering has never been made before, for an individual, at the temple” a Travancore Devaswom Board Official told WION.&nbsp;

SPB, a Padma Bhushan awardee and multiple national award winner has contributed as a playback singer, music director, actor, dubbing artist, film producer predominantly in Tamil, Kannada, Telugu, Malayalam and Hindi. He has over 40,000 songs to his credit.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

In what is said to be the first-ever such instance in the history of the Sabarimala Ayyappan temple, the Devaswom board on its own, has come forward to perform a special Puja for the veteran singer SP Balasubrahmanyam.

In what is said to be the first-ever such instance in the history of the Sabarimala Ayyappan temple, the Devaswom board on its own, has come forward to perform a special Puja for the veteran singer SP Balasubrahmanyam. An ‘Usha Puja’ followed by a ‘Gaana-archana’ (Musical offering) was performed for Lord Ayyappa, the presiding deity of the temple on Friday. Following the Puja rituals, a musician of the temple’s governing board played the Naadhaswaram, (a wind-based instrument) to the tune of SPB’s national award-winning song Shankara Naadhashareera from the film Shakaranbharanam(1979). Though this is a film song, it is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Also read | SP Balasubrahmanyam: Film Industry unites to pray for recovery of veteran singer SPB, the 74-year old singer, who has won multiple national awards and Filmfare awards, is in a critical condition at the MGM hospital in Chennai. He was admitted on August 5 and since then, his condition has deteriorated and the singer is under ventilator and ECMO (Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation) support in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). The famous hill shrine in Kerala’s Pathanamthitta district was opened on August 17 for monthly rituals but has been out of bounds for devotees, given the COVID-19 pandemic guidelines. Under these circumstances and considering the widespread prayers from people, the temple’s governing body performed the special pujas for his recovery and well-being. It is notable that the singer has sung several songs in praise of the deity Swami Ayyappa. In 2015, he was awarded the Harivarasanam award that is instituted by the Kerala Government and the Travancore Devaswom Board, which manages the temple. The award is given to a person for their contribution to propagating the spirit of secularism, equanimity, and the universal brotherhood of Sabarimala through the songs. SPB’s 2015 visit to the temple to receive the award is said to be his maiden visit. On receiving the award, SPB had said that music was his mother tongue and also sang his national-award winning song from 1979 - Shankara Naadha Shareera. He had also said that the Sabarimala Ayyappan temple was a universal place of worship where religion, caste, creed, social status did not matter, thus making it a model for the rest of the world. “This Usha Puja and special ‘Gaana-Archana’ is for the recovery and well-being of the great Singer SPB. Cinema stars and commoners are praying for him alike and we have also spoken to his family. Musicians from the temple played three different instruments as a part of the musical offering. Ganesh, a Naadhaswaram player had also played the tune of SPB’s iconic 1979 song which is widely popular across Kerala and all other southern states. Such a musical offering has never been made before, for an individual, at the temple” a Travancore Devaswom Board Official told WION. SPB, a Padma Bhushan awardee and multiple national award winner has contributed as a playback singer, music director, actor, dubbing artist, film producer predominantly in Tamil, Kannada, Telugu, Malayalam and Hindi. He has over 40,000 songs to his credit.

Sabarimala temple performs first-ever musical Puja for recovery of veteran Singer SP Balasubrahmanyam

The Supreme Court on Friday refused to entertain a plea seeking setting up of a three-judge panel to inquire into the conduct of former Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi as a judge of the apex court.

Gogoi is now a Rajya Sabha MP.

A bench headed by Justice Arun Mishra termed as "infructuous" the public interest litigation (PIL), and said the petitioner did not press for a hearing in last two years and moreover, now Justice (retd) Gogoi has already demitted office.

"Why did not you (petitioner) press it for hearing in the last two years? This plea has become infructuous as he has demitted office," the bench, also comprising Justices B R Gavai and Krishna Murari, said.

"Sorry we can't entertain," the bench told petitioner Arun Ramchandra Hublikar, who had sought inquiry into the alleged "omission and commission" by Justice (retd) Gogoi as a judge of the apex court.

The petitioner claimed before the bench that he had met the secretary general of the top court for listing of his plea but it was not listed.

Justice Gogoi, the first person from the northeast to reach the top of judiciary and credited for bringing the curtains down on the decades old politically and religiously sensitive Ayodhya land dispute, had retired as the CJI on November 17 last year.

The Supreme Court on Friday refused to entertain a plea seeking setting up of a three-judge panel to inquire into the conduct of former Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi as a judge of the apex court.

The Supreme Court on Friday refused to entertain a plea seeking setting up of a three-judge panel to inquire into the conduct of former Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi as a judge of the apex court. Gogoi is now a Rajya Sabha MP. A bench headed by Justice Arun Mishra termed as "infructuous" the public interest litigation (PIL), and said the petitioner did not press for a hearing in last two years and moreover, now Justice (retd) Gogoi has already demitted office. "Why did not you (petitioner) press it for hearing in the last two years? This plea has become infructuous as he has demitted office," the bench, also comprising Justices B R Gavai and Krishna Murari, said. "Sorry we can't entertain," the bench told petitioner Arun Ramchandra Hublikar, who had sought inquiry into the alleged "omission and commission" by Justice (retd) Gogoi as a judge of the apex court. The petitioner claimed before the bench that he had met the secretary general of the top court for listing of his plea but it was not listed. Justice Gogoi, the first person from the northeast to reach the top of judiciary and credited for bringing the curtains down on the decades old politically and religiously sensitive Ayodhya land dispute, had retired as the CJI on November 17 last year.

Supreme Court rejects plea seeking inquiry into conduct of former CJI Ranjan Gogoi as judge

India on Thursday reported a spike of 69,652 cases, 977 deaths in the last 24 hours as the COVID-19 tally crossed the 28-lakh mark.

According to the Health Ministry's latest update, the COVID-19 tally in the country has risen to 28, 36,926 including 6, 86,395 active cases, 20, 96,665 cured/discharged/migrated &amp; 53,866 deaths.

Five most affected states by total tally of cases are Maharashtra (628,642), Tamil Nadu (349,654), Andhra Pradesh (306,261), Karnataka (249,000), and Uttar Pradesh (162,434). Maharashtra, the worst-hit state in India, recorded its highest one-day count of 13,165 coronavirus cases. Meanwhile, Delhi Disaster Management Authority has given its approval for opening of hotels and weekly markets in the national capital.

As many as 22,556,346 people around the world have been diagnosed with Covid-19. While more than 15,288,855 have recovered, 789,969 have died so far. The US, the worst-hit country, has 5,699,221 cases. It is followed by Brazil, which has 3,460,413.

(With inputs from agencies)

India on Thursday reported a spike of 69,652 cases, 977 deaths in the last 24 hours as the COVID-19 tally crossed the 28-lakh mark. According to the Health Ministry's latest update, the COVID-19 tally in the country has risen to 28, 36,926 including 6, 86,395 active cases, 20, 96,665 cured/discharged/migrated & 53,866 deaths.

India on Thursday reported a spike of 69,652 cases, 977 deaths in the last 24 hours as the COVID-19 tally crossed the 28-lakh mark. According to the Health Ministry's latest update, the COVID-19 tally in the country has risen to 28, 36,926 including 6, 86,395 active cases, 20, 96,665 cured/discharged/migrated & 53,866 deaths. Five most affected states by total tally of cases are Maharashtra (628,642), Tamil Nadu (349,654), Andhra Pradesh (306,261), Karnataka (249,000), and Uttar Pradesh (162,434). Maharashtra, the worst-hit state in India, recorded its highest one-day count of 13,165 coronavirus cases. Meanwhile, Delhi Disaster Management Authority has given its approval for opening of hotels and weekly markets in the national capital. As many as 22,556,346 people around the world have been diagnosed with Covid-19. While more than 15,288,855 have recovered, 789,969 have died so far. The US, the worst-hit country, has 5,699,221 cases. It is followed by Brazil, which has 3,460,413. (With inputs from agencies)

India sees biggest 1-day spike of 69,652 Coronavirus cases, tally crosses 28 lakh-mark

A militant who was killed in an encounter in Jammu and Kashmir's Kupwara district along with a top Lashkar-e-Toiba (LeT) commander was identified as a Pakistani ultra, police on Thursday said.

They said the Pakistani terrorist named Danish was killed in the encounter on Wednesday.

Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kashmir Vijay Kumar said the killing of the two militants was a big achievement for the security forces.

Kumar on Wednesday had said that one of the slain militants was LeT commander Naseer-u-din Lone, who was involved in killing of three CRPF jawans at Sopore on April 18 and another three CRPF jawans at Handwara on May 4 this year.

He said an AK-47 rifle, which was snatched from a CRPF jawan after the attack at Vangam Handwara on May 4, was recovered from Lone. This proved his involvement in the killing of the three CRPF jawans, he said on Thursday.

Killing of Lone and Danish is a big achievement for the forces, the IGP Kashmir said.

The Kashmir Zone Police on its official Twitter page uploaded a CCTV grab purportedly showing Lone firing on CRPF jawans at Aahad Baba Chowk in Sopore on April 18. The police wrote "justice done" on August 19 in the tweet.

The encounter at Ganipora Kralgund area of Handwara in north Kashmir's Kupwara district started after security forces cordoned off the area and launched a search operation.

The encounter was the second such operation on Wednesday. Earlier in the day, security forces killed two militants in Shopian district in south Kashmir.

A militant who was killed in an encounter in Jammu and Kashmir's Kupwara district along with a top Lashkar-e-Toiba (LeT) commander was identified as a Pakistani ultra, police on Thursday said.

A militant who was killed in an encounter in Jammu and Kashmir's Kupwara district along with a top Lashkar-e-Toiba (LeT) commander was identified as a Pakistani ultra, police on Thursday said. They said the Pakistani terrorist named Danish was killed in the encounter on Wednesday. Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kashmir Vijay Kumar said the killing of the two militants was a big achievement for the security forces. Kumar on Wednesday had said that one of the slain militants was LeT commander Naseer-u-din Lone, who was involved in killing of three CRPF jawans at Sopore on April 18 and another three CRPF jawans at Handwara on May 4 this year. He said an AK-47 rifle, which was snatched from a CRPF jawan after the attack at Vangam Handwara on May 4, was recovered from Lone. This proved his involvement in the killing of the three CRPF jawans, he said on Thursday. Killing of Lone and Danish is a big achievement for the forces, the IGP Kashmir said. The Kashmir Zone Police on its official Twitter page uploaded a CCTV grab purportedly showing Lone firing on CRPF jawans at Aahad Baba Chowk in Sopore on April 18. The police wrote "justice done" on August 19 in the tweet. The encounter at Ganipora Kralgund area of Handwara in north Kashmir's Kupwara district started after security forces cordoned off the area and launched a search operation. The encounter was the second such operation on Wednesday. Earlier in the day, security forces killed two militants in Shopian district in south Kashmir.

Militant killed in Kupwara encounter identified as Pakistani

Maharashtra reported its highest single-day spike of 14,492 coronavirus cases on Thursday, which pushed its overall count to 6,43,289, the state health department said.

The death of 326 patients increased the toll to 21,359, it said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/new-sero-survey-in-delhi-reveals-29-people-have-developed-covid-19-antibodies-322004">New sero survey In Delhi reveals 29% people have developed COVID-19 antibodies</a>

A total of 12,243 patients were discharged on Thursday following their recovery, the department said in a statement. 
With this, 4,59,124 COVID-19 patients have been discharged so far, it added.

There are 1,62,491 active cases in the state.

The recovery rate in the state is 71.37 per cent, while the fatality rate is 3.32 per cent.

Of the total number of cases on Thursday, 3,659 were in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR), including 1,275 in Mumbai city alone.

There were 83 deaths in the MMR on Thursday, which includes 46 in Mumbai.

The tally of cases in MMR is 2,99,165, which includes 1,32,822 in Mumbai city, while the number of deaths in the region has reached 11,968, including 7,314 in Mumbai.

Elsewhere in the state, Nashik city reported 745 new cases, Ahmednagar city 247, Jalgaon city 101, Pune city 1,682, Pimpri Chinchwad 1,000, Kolhapur city 173, Sangli city 281, Aurangabad city 291, Latur city 122, Nanded city 112, Nagpur city 924.

Of the total number of 326 deaths, 231 were from the last 48 hours, 63 from the last week and 32 others from the period before last week, the statement said.

As many as 34,14,809 people have been tested so far, the department said.

Currently, 11,76,261 people are in home quarantine and 37,639 in institutional quarantine.

Maharashtra's COVID-19 tally is as follows: Positive cases 6,43,289, deaths 21,359, recoveries 4,59,124, active cases 1,62,491 and people tested so far 34,14,809.&nbsp;

Maharashtra reported its highest single-day spike of 14,492 coronavirus cases on Thursday, which pushed its overall count to 6,43,289, the state health department said.

Maharashtra reported its highest single-day spike of 14,492 coronavirus cases on Thursday, which pushed its overall count to 6,43,289, the state health department said. The death of 326 patients increased the toll to 21,359, it said. Also read | New sero survey In Delhi reveals 29% people have developed COVID-19 antibodies A total of 12,243 patients were discharged on Thursday following their recovery, the department said in a statement. With this, 4,59,124 COVID-19 patients have been discharged so far, it added. There are 1,62,491 active cases in the state. The recovery rate in the state is 71.37 per cent, while the fatality rate is 3.32 per cent. Of the total number of cases on Thursday, 3,659 were in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR), including 1,275 in Mumbai city alone. There were 83 deaths in the MMR on Thursday, which includes 46 in Mumbai. The tally of cases in MMR is 2,99,165, which includes 1,32,822 in Mumbai city, while the number of deaths in the region has reached 11,968, including 7,314 in Mumbai. Elsewhere in the state, Nashik city reported 745 new cases, Ahmednagar city 247, Jalgaon city 101, Pune city 1,682, Pimpri Chinchwad 1,000, Kolhapur city 173, Sangli city 281, Aurangabad city 291, Latur city 122, Nanded city 112, Nagpur city 924. Of the total number of 326 deaths, 231 were from the last 48 hours, 63 from the last week and 32 others from the period before last week, the statement said. As many as 34,14,809 people have been tested so far, the department said. Currently, 11,76,261 people are in home quarantine and 37,639 in institutional quarantine. Maharashtra's COVID-19 tally is as follows: Positive cases 6,43,289, deaths 21,359, recoveries 4,59,124, active cases 1,62,491 and people tested so far 34,14,809.

Coronavirus: With more than 14,000 cases, Maharashtra records highest one-day rise

The doubling rate of coronavirus infection in the national capital has gone up to over 100 days, the Delhi government said on Thursday as it revealed that 29.1 per cent people who took part in the latest sero-prevalence survey have antibodies against COVID-19.

The national capital recorded 1,215 fresh coronavirus cases, taking the tally to 1.57 lakh, while the death toll from the disease mounted to 4,257, a health bulletin issued by the Delhi government said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-sees-biggest-1-day-spike-of-69652-coronavirus-cases-tally-crosses-28-lakh-mark-321870">India sees biggest 1-day spike of 69,652 Coronavirus cases, tally crosses 28 lakh-mark</a>

Twenty-two fatalities have been recorded in the last 24 hours, the health bulletin said. This is the highest number of deaths since August 7, when the city recorded 23 fatalities, according to the data.

On the sero-survey, Health Minister Satyendar Jain said 15,000 representative samples were taken in the August 1-7 survey from 11 districts, and the next exercise will begin from September 1.

"In the previous survey, it was found that over 22 per cent people had developed antibodies. Now, the August survey shows it is 29.1 per cent," meaning they had got infected and recovered," Jain said.

The minister also said the prevalence of antibodies found in males was 28.3 per cent and 32.2 per cent in females in the latest survey.

The sero-prevalence found in North East district was 29 per cent, South district 27 per cent, South East 33 per cent and New Delhi 24 per cent, Jain said.

"The rise, rather than the exponential rise is not there. So, people are taking safety precautions it seems. But, we cannot afford to be complacent and lower our guard, even though the positivity rate at present is 7 per cent," Jain said.

The findings also mean that 71 per cent still have chances of getting infection, he said. "Also, experts say, herd immunity is said to have been built in the community if 40-50 per cent or more develop anti-bodies, so we have to be still very watchful," he added.

The exercise was undertaken for a comprehensive assessment of the COVID-19 situation in Delhi and to formulate strategies based on its findings.

The previous sero-prevalance survey done from June 27 to July 10 by the Delhi government in association with the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), had used 21,387 samples and found that around 23 per cent of the people surveyed had an exposure to the novel coronavirus.

A statement by the Chief Minister's Office said for the month of August, the mortality rate in Delhi is 1.4 percent, while the country has a mortality rate of 1.92 percent. The recovery rate in Delhi is 90.2 per cent as compared to 72.5 per cent for the rest of the country, it added. 
&nbsp;

"The efforts made by Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal to deal with the Covid situation in Delhi are showing successful results. Delhi's position is much better than the rest of the country,"&nbsp;the statement said.

The statement also said there is a large drop in test positive rate between June 18 and August 16. Positivity rate of RT-PCR and rapid tests both have seen a sharp decrease, it added.

"At present, the doubling rate of coronavirus in Delhi has gone up to 101.5 days, as compared to the rest of the country which stands at 28.8 days,"&nbsp;the statement said.&nbsp;

 
On July 1, the doubling rate of coronavirus cases in Delhi was the same as with the rest of India at 20 days, it said.

"Since then, the doubling rate of Delhi has been steadily rising. It was 58 days on July 17, around 90 days on August 1, and has currently increased to 101.5 days. In comparison, for the rest of India, the doubling rate has remained between 20 and 27 days since July 1,"&nbsp;it added.

On the positivity rate, the statement said it has dropped for both RT-PCR tests and Rapid Antigen Tests.

"On June 18, 9,088 RT-PCR tests were conducted of which 2,804 positives emerged - a positivity rate of 30.85 per cent. In comparison, on August 16, 4,106 RT-PCR tests were conducted of which 434 positives emerged - a positivity rate of 10.57 per cent.

"Similarly, on June 18, 3,316 rapid tests were conducted in Delhi of which 247 positives emerged - a positivity rate of 7.42 per cent. In comparison, August 16, 10,882 rapid tests were conducted in Delhi of which 353 positives emerged - a positivity rate of 3.24 per cent,"&nbsp;the statement added.

On an average, the Delhi government roughly conducts 18,000-20,000 tests every day, but a majority of them are rapid tests, which experts say have very low sensitivity.

In a related development, the Delhi government has instructed its Excise department to issue necessary permits to hotels and restaurants to serve liquor.

The hotels and restaurants in the city were closed due to the coronavirus-triggered lockdown since March. Even after restaurants were allowed to start functioning during the 'unlock' phase, they were not allowed to serve liquor.

In a note to the excise commissioner of the Delhi government, Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia directed the department to issue necessary permission to serve liquor in the restaurants and clubs by licensees at tables and in hotel rooms.

The Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) on Wednesday approved opening of hotels and restaurants in the city.&nbsp;

The doubling rate of coronavirus infection in the national capital has gone up to over 100 days, the Delhi government said on Thursday as it revealed that 29.1 per cent people who took part in the latest sero-prevalence survey have antibodies against COVID-19.

The doubling rate of coronavirus infection in the national capital has gone up to over 100 days, the Delhi government said on Thursday as it revealed that 29.1 per cent people who took part in the latest sero-prevalence survey have antibodies against COVID-19. The national capital recorded 1,215 fresh coronavirus cases, taking the tally to 1.57 lakh, while the death toll from the disease mounted to 4,257, a health bulletin issued by the Delhi government said. Also read | India sees biggest 1-day spike of 69,652 Coronavirus cases, tally crosses 28 lakh-mark Twenty-two fatalities have been recorded in the last 24 hours, the health bulletin said. This is the highest number of deaths since August 7, when the city recorded 23 fatalities, according to the data. On the sero-survey, Health Minister Satyendar Jain said 15,000 representative samples were taken in the August 1-7 survey from 11 districts, and the next exercise will begin from September 1. "In the previous survey, it was found that over 22 per cent people had developed antibodies. Now, the August survey shows it is 29.1 per cent," meaning they had got infected and recovered," Jain said. The minister also said the prevalence of antibodies found in males was 28.3 per cent and 32.2 per cent in females in the latest survey. The sero-prevalence found in North East district was 29 per cent, South district 27 per cent, South East 33 per cent and New Delhi 24 per cent, Jain said. "The rise, rather than the exponential rise is not there. So, people are taking safety precautions it seems. But, we cannot afford to be complacent and lower our guard, even though the positivity rate at present is 7 per cent," Jain said. The findings also mean that 71 per cent still have chances of getting infection, he said. "Also, experts say, herd immunity is said to have been built in the community if 40-50 per cent or more develop anti-bodies, so we have to be still very watchful," he added. The exercise was undertaken for a comprehensive assessment of the COVID-19 situation in Delhi and to formulate strategies based on its findings. The previous sero-prevalance survey done from June 27 to July 10 by the Delhi government in association with the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), had used 21,387 samples and found that around 23 per cent of the people surveyed had an exposure to the novel coronavirus. A statement by the Chief Minister's Office said for the month of August, the mortality rate in Delhi is 1.4 percent, while the country has a mortality rate of 1.92 percent. The recovery rate in Delhi is 90.2 per cent as compared to 72.5 per cent for the rest of the country, it added. "The efforts made by Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal to deal with the Covid situation in Delhi are showing successful results. Delhi's position is much better than the rest of the country," the statement said. The statement also said there is a large drop in test positive rate between June 18 and August 16. Positivity rate of RT-PCR and rapid tests both have seen a sharp decrease, it added. "At present, the doubling rate of coronavirus in Delhi has gone up to 101.5 days, as compared to the rest of the country which stands at 28.8 days," the statement said. On July 1, the doubling rate of coronavirus cases in Delhi was the same as with the rest of India at 20 days, it said. "Since then, the doubling rate of Delhi has been steadily rising. It was 58 days on July 17, around 90 days on August 1, and has currently increased to 101.5 days. In comparison, for the rest of India, the doubling rate has remained between 20 and 27 days since July 1," it added. On the positivity rate, the statement said it has dropped for both RT-PCR tests and Rapid Antigen Tests. "On June 18, 9,088 RT-PCR tests were conducted of which 2,804 positives emerged - a positivity rate of 30.85 per cent. In comparison, on August 16, 4,106 RT-PCR tests were conducted of which 434 positives emerged - a positivity rate of 10.57 per cent. "Similarly, on June 18, 3,316 rapid tests were conducted in Delhi of which 247 positives emerged - a positivity rate of 7.42 per cent. In comparison, August 16, 10,882 rapid tests were conducted in Delhi of which 353 positives emerged - a positivity rate of 3.24 per cent," the statement added. On an average, the Delhi government roughly conducts 18,000-20,000 tests every day, but a majority of them are rapid tests, which experts say have very low sensitivity. In a related development, the Delhi government has instructed its Excise department to issue necessary permits to hotels and restaurants to serve liquor. The hotels and restaurants in the city were closed due to the coronavirus-triggered lockdown since March. Even after restaurants were allowed to start functioning during the 'unlock' phase, they were not allowed to serve liquor. In a note to the excise commissioner of the Delhi government, Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia directed the department to issue necessary permission to serve liquor in the restaurants and clubs by licensees at tables and in hotel rooms. The Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) on Wednesday approved opening of hotels and restaurants in the city.

New sero survey In Delhi reveals 29% people have developed COVID-19 antibodies

Marking a year of the Chandrayaan-2 integrated module having been inserted into lunar orbit, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has released its initial set of technical and mission data.&nbsp;

The agency goes on to state that though the soft-landing was unsuccessful, the orbiter had completed 4400 orbits around the moon and all eight on-board instruments are performing well. While the orbiter was meant to stay operational for one year, ISRO says that it has enough fuel for remaining in orbit for seven years.

The Indian space agency has said that the spacecraft is healthy and performance of its subsystems are normal. The orbiter is being maintained in 100 +/- 25 km polar orbit (circling the moon along the poles) with periodic orbit maintenance (OM) manoeuvres. When any satellite or spacecraft is in space in a certain orbit it swings wildly on a certain plane and moves a few hundred metres or even a few kilometres away from the intended path. That's when commands are issued to fire it's on-board liquid-fuelles Motors to steer it back on course.&nbsp;

So far, 17 such OMs were carried out since achieving 100 km lunar orbit on September 24, 2019. The statement from ISRO also adds that the eight scientific payloads on-board are being used optimally. Simply put, it means that the illumination on the lunar surface would vary throughout the year, depending on the sun’s position. Hence, ISRO is making use of multiple equipments to capture images and conduct studies when conventional imaging cameras cannot function owing to poor lighting. &nbsp;

According to ISRO, over the last year, the Terrain Mapping Camera 2(TMC 2) has been able to acquire images of nearly 4 million sq. km&nbsp;of lunar surface area&nbsp;during 220 orbits. TMC -2 is said to be the highest resolution camera that is currently in orbit around the moon. With a resolution of 30cm, it will be able to distinguish between objects that are 30cm apart.&nbsp;

It is besides the orbiter high-resolution camera (OHRC) has captured images of about 1056sq km area, this data can be used to select landing sites for future missions. The images from OHRC can also help scientists understand the boulders in a particular region and help in interpreting the geological features and their history.

While some of the salient results have been shared on the occasion of the anniversary of lunar orbit insertion, ISRO has stated that the public data release is planned for later this year, after validation by formal peer review. The agency believes that&nbsp;

India's second moon-probe Chandrayaan-2 was launched on July 22nd last year and had attempted a moon-landing on September 7th. However, the much-anticipated landing happened to end up in a crash landing, after ISRO lost contact with the Vikram lander, barely at an altitude of 2.1km from the lunar surface.&nbsp;

The mission was launched with the objectives of obtaining detailed information on the topography, mineralogy, surface chemical composition, thermo-physical characteristics and the lunar exosphere.

India’s first lunar mission Chandrayaan-1 is credited with finding extensive presence of surface water and the indication of sub-surface polar water-ice deposits. India is also working on Chandrayaan-3, the country's third moon probe, and it is expected to be launched sometime in 2021 or later.&nbsp;

Marking a year of the Chandrayaan-2 integrated module having been inserted into lunar orbit, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has released its initial set of technical and mission data.

Marking a year of the Chandrayaan-2 integrated module having been inserted into lunar orbit, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has released its initial set of technical and mission data. The agency goes on to state that though the soft-landing was unsuccessful, the orbiter had completed 4400 orbits around the moon and all eight on-board instruments are performing well. While the orbiter was meant to stay operational for one year, ISRO says that it has enough fuel for remaining in orbit for seven years. The Indian space agency has said that the spacecraft is healthy and performance of its subsystems are normal. The orbiter is being maintained in 100 +/- 25 km polar orbit (circling the moon along the poles) with periodic orbit maintenance (OM) manoeuvres. When any satellite or spacecraft is in space in a certain orbit it swings wildly on a certain plane and moves a few hundred metres or even a few kilometres away from the intended path. That's when commands are issued to fire it's on-board liquid-fuelles Motors to steer it back on course. So far, 17 such OMs were carried out since achieving 100 km lunar orbit on September 24, 2019. The statement from ISRO also adds that the eight scientific payloads on-board are being used optimally. Simply put, it means that the illumination on the lunar surface would vary throughout the year, depending on the sun’s position. Hence, ISRO is making use of multiple equipments to capture images and conduct studies when conventional imaging cameras cannot function owing to poor lighting. According to ISRO, over the last year, the Terrain Mapping Camera 2(TMC 2) has been able to acquire images of nearly 4 million sq. km of lunar surface area during 220 orbits. TMC -2 is said to be the highest resolution camera that is currently in orbit around the moon. With a resolution of 30cm, it will be able to distinguish between objects that are 30cm apart. It is besides the orbiter high-resolution camera (OHRC) has captured images of about 1056sq km area, this data can be used to select landing sites for future missions. The images from OHRC can also help scientists understand the boulders in a particular region and help in interpreting the geological features and their history. While some of the salient results have been shared on the occasion of the anniversary of lunar orbit insertion, ISRO has stated that the public data release is planned for later this year, after validation by formal peer review. The agency believes that India's second moon-probe Chandrayaan-2 was launched on July 22nd last year and had attempted a moon-landing on September 7th. However, the much-anticipated landing happened to end up in a crash landing, after ISRO lost contact with the Vikram lander, barely at an altitude of 2.1km from the lunar surface. The mission was launched with the objectives of obtaining detailed information on the topography, mineralogy, surface chemical composition, thermo-physical characteristics and the lunar exosphere. India’s first lunar mission Chandrayaan-1 is credited with finding extensive presence of surface water and the indication of sub-surface polar water-ice deposits. India is also working on Chandrayaan-3, the country's third moon probe, and it is expected to be launched sometime in 2021 or later.

A year in orbit, Chandrayaan-2 clicks millions of sq km of lunar surface

India's ministry of external affairs said today that the eighteenth meeting of India-China Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination (WMCC) was held earlier on Thursday.&nbsp;

"The two sides had a candid and in-depth exchange of views on the existing situation in border areas," MEA spokesman Anurag Srivastava said.

India and China reaffirmed that in "accordance with the agreements reached between the two foreign ministers and the two special representatives, the two sides will continue to sincerely work towards complete disengagement along the LAC."

The two sides also acknowledged the need to maintain close communication through both "diplomatic and military channels". The MEA added that the two sides have agreed to resolve "outstanding issues expeditiously".&nbsp;

India and China relations have gone downhill since the clash at Galwan Valley on June 15 in which 20 Indian soldiers were killed in action, although the Chinese side has suffered casualties as well, however, China's foreign ministry has refused to divulge the casualties.

Both sides have engaged in a series of diplomatic and military talks since the clash at Galwan in an attempt to calm the situation on the ground as disengagement of troops at Galwan began in earnest.

However, reports said that China has augmented surveillance in the central sector of the Indian Army and has upgraded its surveillance system in Uttrakahand.&nbsp;

India's ministry of external affairs said today that the eighteenth meeting of India-China Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination (WMCC) was held earlier on Thursday.

India's ministry of external affairs said today that the eighteenth meeting of India-China Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination (WMCC) was held earlier on Thursday. "The two sides had a candid and in-depth exchange of views on the existing situation in border areas," MEA spokesman Anurag Srivastava said. India and China reaffirmed that in "accordance with the agreements reached between the two foreign ministers and the two special representatives, the two sides will continue to sincerely work towards complete disengagement along the LAC." The two sides also acknowledged the need to maintain close communication through both "diplomatic and military channels". The MEA added that the two sides have agreed to resolve "outstanding issues expeditiously". India and China relations have gone downhill since the clash at Galwan Valley on June 15 in which 20 Indian soldiers were killed in action, although the Chinese side has suffered casualties as well, however, China's foreign ministry has refused to divulge the casualties. Both sides have engaged in a series of diplomatic and military talks since the clash at Galwan in an attempt to calm the situation on the ground as disengagement of troops at Galwan began in earnest. However, reports said that China has augmented surveillance in the central sector of the Indian Army and has upgraded its surveillance system in Uttrakahand.

India-China standoff: India, China agreed to work towards complete disengagement along LAC at WMCC meet: MEA

India on Thursday said they have asked Pakistan to allow Kulbhushan Jadhav get representation by an Indian lawyer.

In a press briefing, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesman Anurag Srivastava said New Delhi is in touch with Islamabad through diplomatic channels on Jadhav case.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/actions-of-nations-during-covid-19-determines-how-world-perceives-them-mea-321889">Actions of nations during Covid-19 determines how world perceives them: MEA</a>

"We believe for a free and fair trial in keeping with the letter and spirit of ICJ judgment in the Kulbhushan Jadhav case. We have asked that Jadhav be represented by an Indian lawyer," Srivastava said, as quoted by news agency ANI. &nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/national-recruitment-agency-will-prove-to-be-a-boon-for-crores-of-youngsters-says-pm-narendra-modi-321721">National Recruitment Agency will prove to be a boon for crores of youngsters, says PM Narendra Modi</a>

"However, it is important that Pakistan needs to address the core issues; these issues involve the provision of relevant documents and providing unimpeded consular access to Kulbhushan Jhadav."

Jadhav is a former Indian Navy officer, who was arrested four years ago by Pakistan and after a year was sentenced to death on charges of espionage and terrorism.&nbsp;&nbsp;

India on Thursday said they have asked Pakistan to allow Kulbhushan Jadhav get representation by an Indian lawyer. In a press briefing, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesman Anurag Srivastava said New Delhi is in touch with Islamabad through diplomatic channels on Jadhav case.

India on Thursday said they have asked Pakistan to allow Kulbhushan Jadhav get representation by an Indian lawyer. In a press briefing, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesman Anurag Srivastava said New Delhi is in touch with Islamabad through diplomatic channels on Jadhav case. Also read | Actions of nations during Covid-19 determines how world perceives them: MEA "We believe for a free and fair trial in keeping with the letter and spirit of ICJ judgment in the Kulbhushan Jadhav case. We have asked that Jadhav be represented by an Indian lawyer," Srivastava said, as quoted by news agency ANI. Also read | National Recruitment Agency will prove to be a boon for crores of youngsters, says PM Narendra Modi "However, it is important that Pakistan needs to address the core issues; these issues involve the provision of relevant documents and providing unimpeded consular access to Kulbhushan Jhadav." Jadhav is a former Indian Navy officer, who was arrested four years ago by Pakistan and after a year was sentenced to death on charges of espionage and terrorism.

Want Kulbhushan Jadhav represented by Indian lawyer: India

An Indian-origin student has joined Baltimore City Council president and mayoral candidate Brandon Scott to represent the US state of Maryland during the roll call at the 2020 Democratic National Convention that nominated Joe Biden as the party's presidential candidate.

During his brief appearance on Tuesday, Scott praised Biden for planning to increase the funding for public schools and historically Black colleges and universities.

Scott was joined by Biden delegate and college student Bianca Shah, CBS Baltimore reported.

"When Joe Biden rebuilds our middle class, he won't leave anyone behind," Shah said.

Biden will work to end racial discrimination, she said in the roll call segment broadcast on national television.

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We are so proud that Convention Delegate Bianca Shah and <a href="https://twitter.com/CouncilPresBMS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CouncilPresBMS</a> represented our great state of Maryland for the 2020 Democratic National Convention Roll Call ❤️🤍🖤💛<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamMaryland?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamMaryland</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DemConvention?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DemConvention</a> <a href="https://t.co/HEzzxI9h1J">pic.twitter.com/HEzzxI9h1J</a>
— Maryland Democratic Party (@mddems) <a href="https://twitter.com/mddems/status/1295903697063510017?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 19, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The segment was recorded in front of a statue of Frederick Douglass, a social reformer who fought for the abolition of slavery.

The virtual convention, which was supposed to be held in Milwaukee until plans changed due to the coronavirus, kicked off on Monday night.

Scott then announced Maryland was awarding one vote to Bernie Sanders and 119 for Biden.

The roll call vote process is traditionally a long affair with each delegation in the convention arena going around and pledging delegates to candidates.

On Twitter, Scott wrote the election is about getting the country back on track and that the convention is one important step in getting there.

"I will recognise great Marylanders like Harriet Tubman and Frederick Douglass, and cast the delegates for the next President of the United States, Joe Biden," he added.

Tubman was an American political activist. Born into slavery, Tubman escaped and subsequently made some 13 missions to rescue approximately 70 enslaved people, including family and friends.

An Indian-origin student has joined Baltimore City Council president and mayoral candidate Brandon Scott to represent the US state of Maryland during the roll call at the 2020 Democratic National Convention that nominated Joe Biden as the party's presidential candidate.

An Indian-origin student has joined Baltimore City Council president and mayoral candidate Brandon Scott to represent the US state of Maryland during the roll call at the 2020 Democratic National Convention that nominated Joe Biden as the party's presidential candidate. During his brief appearance on Tuesday, Scott praised Biden for planning to increase the funding for public schools and historically Black colleges and universities. Scott was joined by Biden delegate and college student Bianca Shah, CBS Baltimore reported. "When Joe Biden rebuilds our middle class, he won't leave anyone behind," Shah said. Biden will work to end racial discrimination, she said in the roll call segment broadcast on national television. We are so proud that Convention Delegate Bianca Shah and @CouncilPresBMS represented our great state of Maryland for the 2020 Democratic National Convention Roll Call ❤️🤍🖤💛#TeamMaryland #DemConvention pic.twitter.com/HEzzxI9h1J — Maryland Democratic Party (@mddems) August 19, 2020 × The segment was recorded in front of a statue of Frederick Douglass, a social reformer who fought for the abolition of slavery. The virtual convention, which was supposed to be held in Milwaukee until plans changed due to the coronavirus, kicked off on Monday night. Scott then announced Maryland was awarding one vote to Bernie Sanders and 119 for Biden. The roll call vote process is traditionally a long affair with each delegation in the convention arena going around and pledging delegates to candidates. On Twitter, Scott wrote the election is about getting the country back on track and that the convention is one important step in getting there. "I will recognise great Marylanders like Harriet Tubman and Frederick Douglass, and cast the delegates for the next President of the United States, Joe Biden," he added. Tubman was an American political activist. Born into slavery, Tubman escaped and subsequently made some 13 missions to rescue approximately 70 enslaved people, including family and friends.

Indian-origin student represents Maryland during Democratic Convention

Even as India Maldives Air travel bubble gets into place, the Maldives expects more Indian tourist to visit the Indian Ocean island country. The travel bubble was announced by the External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar during a virtual meeting with Maldives FM Abdulla Shahid earlier this month.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
The MD of Maldives Marketing &amp; Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC) which is the national tourism office of the Maldives Thoyyib Mohamed&nbsp;told WION that the travel bridge will be a "great boost for Maldives tourism."

Mohamed said, "India is the second-largest market for the industry and will help reignite the different sectors of the tourism industry. Given the close proximity between the two countries, this will open up the opportunity for Indian holidaymakers to take a long-awaited holiday, close to home."

The Maldives opened its borders to international tourists since July 15 and there are no quarantine restrictions for tourists. Tourists can travel straight from the airport to their respective resorts without entering Male, thereby providing a safe corridor.&nbsp;

Nearly half the country’s 160 plus resorts have started functioning and guesthouse industry comprising more than 800 guest houses in inhabited islands for budget-travellers are expected to commence soon.&nbsp;

In 2019, 167,000 Indian tourists, visiting the Maldives, which is a rise of more than 100 per cent over 2018. Improved flight connectivity from Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Delhi and Karnataka, and, a visa-free regime are among the several reasons that led to an increase in Indian tourists.

COVID-19 crisis had majorly impacted tourism in the country which is the mainstay of the economy. 2,400 active COVID-19 cases were reported in the country, a majority of them in capital Male.&nbsp;

Even as India Maldives Air travel bubble gets into place, the Maldives expects more Indian tourist to visit the Indian Ocean island country. The travel bubble was announced by the External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar during a virtual meeting with Maldives FM Abdulla Shahid earlier this month.

Even as India Maldives Air travel bubble gets into place, the Maldives expects more Indian tourist to visit the Indian Ocean island country. The travel bubble was announced by the External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar during a virtual meeting with Maldives FM Abdulla Shahid earlier this month. The MD of Maldives Marketing & Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC) which is the national tourism office of the Maldives Thoyyib Mohamed told WION that the travel bridge will be a "great boost for Maldives tourism." Mohamed said, "India is the second-largest market for the industry and will help reignite the different sectors of the tourism industry. Given the close proximity between the two countries, this will open up the opportunity for Indian holidaymakers to take a long-awaited holiday, close to home." The Maldives opened its borders to international tourists since July 15 and there are no quarantine restrictions for tourists. Tourists can travel straight from the airport to their respective resorts without entering Male, thereby providing a safe corridor. Nearly half the country’s 160 plus resorts have started functioning and guesthouse industry comprising more than 800 guest houses in inhabited islands for budget-travellers are expected to commence soon. In 2019, 167,000 Indian tourists, visiting the Maldives, which is a rise of more than 100 per cent over 2018. Improved flight connectivity from Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Delhi and Karnataka, and, a visa-free regime are among the several reasons that led to an increase in Indian tourists. COVID-19 crisis had majorly impacted tourism in the country which is the mainstay of the economy. 2,400 active COVID-19 cases were reported in the country, a majority of them in capital Male.

Maldives eyes Indian tourists as India-Maldives air travel bubble comes into place

On Thursday, the number of cases rose to 2,836,925 after 69,652 fresh cases were registered within a span of 24 hours.

India records 977 deaths in last 24 hours

India has registered a record number of new COVID-19 cases with the highest single-day spike of 69,652 cases. The country's tally crossed the 2.8 million mark. Watch report.

India COVID-19 tracker: Nearly 70,000 new cases and 977 deaths in last 24-hours

The Indian Coast Guard has commissioned Interceptor boat C-449, a 27.80 meters long vessel with a displacement of 105 tons. The induction of this ship is a part of ongoing efforts of the Coast Guard to strengthen Maritime &amp; Coastal Security along the Coasts of Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Andhra Pradesh. The ship will not only strengthen the security umbrella of the East Coast but also help augment patrolling to prevent illicit activities at sea.

K Shanmugam, Chief Secretary, Tamil Nadu commissioned the vessel in the presence of minimal dignitaries while following all protocols amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The vessel C-449 is Forty-Ninth amongst the Fifty Four in its series being indigenously designed and built by M/s Larsen and Toubro Ltd, Hazira (Surat). &nbsp;This commissioning ceremony is said to be first in-person (as opposed to virtual) Coast Guard ceremony since the outbreak of COVID-19.&nbsp;

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With its top speed of 45knots (85kmph) and advanced navigation &amp; communication equipment, coupled with modern systems, the vessel is undertaking multifarious tasks including Surveillance, Interdiction, Search and Rescue, in addition to assisting boats and crafts in distress at sea.

“In the East Region, C-449 will be the 10th vessel in the Interceptor boat category. Currently we have eight Offshore Patrol Vessels(OPV) and 15 fast patrol vessels, besides 5 Dornier aircraft and 3 Chetak helicopters. At the pan-India level, the Coast Guard has about five interceptor boats and seven OPVs in the pipeline” S. Paramesh, Inspector General, Coast Guard East Region told WION.&nbsp;

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The ship is commanded by Assistant Commandant Ashish Sharma and will be based at Krishnapatnam under the administrative and operational control of the Commander, Coast Guard District Headquarters No. 6, Visakhapatnam.&nbsp;

The Indian Coast Guard currently operates over 150 surface platforms and more than 60 aircraft.&nbsp;

K Natarajan, Director General, Indian Coast Guard had earlier said: “Our Coast Guard stands larger than many navies in the world and we further plan to boost our assets to 200 vessels and 100 aircraft by 2025. We also have bilateral and multilateral agreements with Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Mauritius, Seychelles, Maldives etc. Daily we deploy 30-40 ships and 10-12 aircraft for surveillance and in the last decade we have saved over 10,000 lives, in over 3100 missions against the fury of nature.”

The Indian Coast Guard has commissioned Interceptor boat C-449, a 27.80 meters long vessel with a displacement of 105 tons. The induction of this ship is a part of ongoing efforts of the Coast Guard to strengthen Maritime & Coastal Security along the Coasts of Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Andhra Pradesh.

The Indian Coast Guard has commissioned Interceptor boat C-449, a 27.80 meters long vessel with a displacement of 105 tons. The induction of this ship is a part of ongoing efforts of the Coast Guard to strengthen Maritime & Coastal Security along the Coasts of Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Andhra Pradesh. The ship will not only strengthen the security umbrella of the East Coast but also help augment patrolling to prevent illicit activities at sea. K Shanmugam, Chief Secretary, Tamil Nadu commissioned the vessel in the presence of minimal dignitaries while following all protocols amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The vessel C-449 is Forty-Ninth amongst the Fifty Four in its series being indigenously designed and built by M/s Larsen and Toubro Ltd, Hazira (Surat). This commissioning ceremony is said to be first in-person (as opposed to virtual) Coast Guard ceremony since the outbreak of COVID-19. With its top speed of 45knots (85kmph) and advanced navigation & communication equipment, coupled with modern systems, the vessel is undertaking multifarious tasks including Surveillance, Interdiction, Search and Rescue, in addition to assisting boats and crafts in distress at sea. “In the East Region, C-449 will be the 10th vessel in the Interceptor boat category. Currently we have eight Offshore Patrol Vessels(OPV) and 15 fast patrol vessels, besides 5 Dornier aircraft and 3 Chetak helicopters. At the pan-India level, the Coast Guard has about five interceptor boats and seven OPVs in the pipeline” S. Paramesh, Inspector General, Coast Guard East Region told WION. The ship is commanded by Assistant Commandant Ashish Sharma and will be based at Krishnapatnam under the administrative and operational control of the Commander, Coast Guard District Headquarters No. 6, Visakhapatnam. The Indian Coast Guard currently operates over 150 surface platforms and more than 60 aircraft. K Natarajan, Director General, Indian Coast Guard had earlier said: “Our Coast Guard stands larger than many navies in the world and we further plan to boost our assets to 200 vessels and 100 aircraft by 2025. We also have bilateral and multilateral agreements with Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Mauritius, Seychelles, Maldives etc. Daily we deploy 30-40 ships and 10-12 aircraft for surveillance and in the last decade we have saved over 10,000 lives, in over 3100 missions against the fury of nature.”

Indian Coast Guard commissions new Interceptor boat C-449 for East region

Indore was adjudged India's cleanest city for the fourth straight year in the central government's cleanliness survey announced on Thursday.

The second and third positions in the category were grabbed by Surat and Navi Mumbai respectively.

Varanasi has been adjudged the 'best Ganga town' in the central government's cleanliness survey.

The Swachh Survekshan awards 2020 were announced by Union Housing and Urban Affairs Minister Hardeep Singh Puri at a ceremony.

Indore was adjudged India's cleanest city for the fourth straight year in the central government's cleanliness survey announced on Thursday. The second and third positions in the category were grabbed by Surat and Navi Mumbai respectively.

Indore was adjudged India's cleanest city for the fourth straight year in the central government's cleanliness survey announced on Thursday. The second and third positions in the category were grabbed by Surat and Navi Mumbai respectively. Varanasi has been adjudged the 'best Ganga town' in the central government's cleanliness survey. The Swachh Survekshan awards 2020 were announced by Union Housing and Urban Affairs Minister Hardeep Singh Puri at a ceremony.

Indore gets cleanest city tag for fourth time in a row

Without mentioning China, External affairs minister S Jaishankar on Thursday pointed that "actions of nations" amidst COVID "determines how the world really perceives them".&nbsp;

Speaking at Sixth Roundtable of the ASEAN-India Network of Think Tanks (AINTT) he said, "Whatever we may profess, the actions of nations during times of crisis determines how the world really perceives them".

China has been aggressive with its neighbours including India which it had violent clashes at the line of actual control in the month of June.

Highlighting the issues with current global supply chains, Jaishankar through these "actions" countries "did bring up many of the risks inherent in the current global economy" &amp; therefore "concerns about supply chains are sought to be mitigated at the very least through greater emphasis on their diversification and resilience".

India, along with its partners like Australia, Japan &amp; US has been calling for diversification of supply chains which are currently china dominated.

Calling COVID an "unprecedented" crisis, he said, "None of us has seen a crisis of this proportion before, or indeed uncertainty of this level."&nbsp;

Explaining the economic impact he added, "Contraction of the world economy" due to the pandemic "will surely be the largest since the Great Depression."

He listed cumulative loss in the range of USD 5.8-8.8 trillion or approximately 6.5-9.7% of the global GDP due to the COVID pandemic.

Without mentioning China, External affairs minister S Jaishankar on Thursday pointed that "actions of nations" amidst COVID "determines how the world really perceives them".

Without mentioning China, External affairs minister S Jaishankar on Thursday pointed that "actions of nations" amidst COVID "determines how the world really perceives them". Speaking at Sixth Roundtable of the ASEAN-India Network of Think Tanks (AINTT) he said, "Whatever we may profess, the actions of nations during times of crisis determines how the world really perceives them". China has been aggressive with its neighbours including India which it had violent clashes at the line of actual control in the month of June. Highlighting the issues with current global supply chains, Jaishankar through these "actions" countries "did bring up many of the risks inherent in the current global economy" & therefore "concerns about supply chains are sought to be mitigated at the very least through greater emphasis on their diversification and resilience". India, along with its partners like Australia, Japan & US has been calling for diversification of supply chains which are currently china dominated. Calling COVID an "unprecedented" crisis, he said, "None of us has seen a crisis of this proportion before, or indeed uncertainty of this level." Explaining the economic impact he added, "Contraction of the world economy" due to the pandemic "will surely be the largest since the Great Depression." He listed cumulative loss in the range of USD 5.8-8.8 trillion or approximately 6.5-9.7% of the global GDP due to the COVID pandemic.

Actions of nations during Covid-19 determines how world perceives them: MEA

On the occasion of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi's 76th birth anniversary, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Thursday paid tribute to his father at Veer Bhumi here.

He offered rose petals and prayers at his father's memorial.

In a tweet earlier today, Rahul said, "Rajiv Gandhi was a man with a tremendous vision, far ahead of his times. But above all else, he was a compassionate and loving human being."

He further said that he was "incredibly lucky and proud" to have the former Prime Minister as his father.

"I am incredibly lucky and proud to have him as my father. We miss him today and every day," read the tweet.

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Rajiv Gandhi was a man with a tremendous vision, far ahead of his times. But above all else, he was a compassionate and loving human being. 
 
I am incredibly lucky and proud to have him as my father. 
 
We miss him today and everyday. <a href="https://t.co/jWUUZQklTi">pic.twitter.com/jWUUZQklTi</a>
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/1296265574759055360?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 20, 2020</a></blockquote>
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To mark the day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi earlier today paid tributes to the former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi on his 76th birth anniversary.

"On his birth anniversary, tributes to former Prime Minister Shri Rajiv Gandhi Ji," read PM Modi's tweet.

Rajiv Gandhi took over the charge of the Congress in 1984 following the assassination of his mother and then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. He became India's youngest Prime Minister at the age of 40.

Born on August 20 in 1944, he was assassinated by a Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) suicide bomber during an election rally in Sriperumbudur, Tamil Nadu on May 21, 1991.

On the occasion of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi's 76th birth anniversary, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Thursday paid tribute to his father at Veer Bhumi here.

On the occasion of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi's 76th birth anniversary, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Thursday paid tribute to his father at Veer Bhumi here. He offered rose petals and prayers at his father's memorial. In a tweet earlier today, Rahul said, "Rajiv Gandhi was a man with a tremendous vision, far ahead of his times. But above all else, he was a compassionate and loving human being." He further said that he was "incredibly lucky and proud" to have the former Prime Minister as his father. "I am incredibly lucky and proud to have him as my father. We miss him today and every day," read the tweet. Rajiv Gandhi was a man with a tremendous vision, far ahead of his times. But above all else, he was a compassionate and loving human being. I am incredibly lucky and proud to have him as my father. We miss him today and everyday. pic.twitter.com/jWUUZQklTi — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) August 20, 2020 × To mark the day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi earlier today paid tributes to the former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi on his 76th birth anniversary. "On his birth anniversary, tributes to former Prime Minister Shri Rajiv Gandhi Ji," read PM Modi's tweet. Rajiv Gandhi took over the charge of the Congress in 1984 following the assassination of his mother and then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. He became India's youngest Prime Minister at the age of 40. Born on August 20 in 1944, he was assassinated by a Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) suicide bomber during an election rally in Sriperumbudur, Tamil Nadu on May 21, 1991.

Rahul Gandhi pays tribute to father, former PM Rajiv Gandhi on his birth anniversary

Respiratory parameters of former president Pranab Mukherjee have shown a slight improvement, though he continues to be on ventilator support, the hospital said on Thursday.

Mukherjee, who was admitted to the Army's Research and Referral Hospital on August 10, developed a lung infection on Wednesday.

Doctors attending on him said his vital parameters remain stable.

"The respiratory parameters of Hon'ble Shri Pranab Mukherjee have shown slight improvement though he continues to be on ventilatory support. His vital and clinical parameters remain stable and are being closely monitored by a team of specialists," a hospital statement said.

Mukherjee was operated on for removal of a clot in the brain on August 10 at the Army Hospital in Delhi Cantonment. 
He was also tested positive for COVID-19.

Mukherjee was the 13th President of India from 2012 to 2017.&nbsp;

Respiratory parameters of former president Pranab Mukherjee have shown a slight improvement, though he continues to be on ventilator support, the hospital said on Thursday.

Respiratory parameters of former president Pranab Mukherjee have shown a slight improvement, though he continues to be on ventilator support, the hospital said on Thursday. Mukherjee, who was admitted to the Army's Research and Referral Hospital on August 10, developed a lung infection on Wednesday. Doctors attending on him said his vital parameters remain stable. "The respiratory parameters of Hon'ble Shri Pranab Mukherjee have shown slight improvement though he continues to be on ventilatory support. His vital and clinical parameters remain stable and are being closely monitored by a team of specialists," a hospital statement said. Mukherjee was operated on for removal of a clot in the brain on August 10 at the Army Hospital in Delhi Cantonment. He was also tested positive for COVID-19. Mukherjee was the 13th President of India from 2012 to 2017.

Pranab Mukherjee's respiratory parameters show slight improvement: Hospital

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Tuesday arrested doctor for his alleged links with the banned terrorist outfit Islamic State Khorasan Province (ISKP) and offshoot of ISIS. He has been booked under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA).

28-year-old Abdur Rahman who is a doctor by profession was arrested from his residence in Basavangudi in Bengaluru. The NIA has said that he is in contact with the Islamic State. He was working as an Ophthalmologist at M.S. Ramaiah Medical College, Bangalore.

During interrogation, Rahman confessed that he was conspiring with Jahanzaib Sami and other Syria-based ISIS operatives on secure messaging platforms to further ISIS activities, NIA said in a statement.

Significantly, Rahman had visited an ISIS medical camp in Syria in early 2014 for treatment of ISIS terrorists and stayed with Islamic State operatives for 10 days and returned to India, the NIA said.

"Rahman was in the process of developing a medical application for helping the injured ISIS cadres in the conflict-zones and a weaponry-related application for the benefit of ISIS fighters," the agency said.

After arresting Rahman, NIA carried out searches at 3 premises belonging to him in Bengaluru with the assistance of Karnataka Police and seized digital devices, mobile phone, laptop containing incriminating material.

They were also found to be in touch with Abdullah Basith, who was already lodged in Tihar jail in another NIA case (ISIS Abu Dabhi Module), the agency said, During the further investigation in the case, NIA arrested two more accused — Sadiya Anwar Sheikh and Nabeel Siddick Khatri — both residents of Pune, for being part of the conspiracy to "further the activities of ISIS/ISKP in India" and to "carry out subversive activities in the garb of anti-Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) protests".

The arrested accused will be produced before the NIA Special Court at New Delhi and NIA remand will be sought for his custodial interrogation, the agency said. Further investigation in the case is continued, NIA said.

(With inputs from agencies)

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Tuesday arrested doctor for his alleged links with the banned terrorist outfit Islamic State Khorasan Province (ISKP) and offshoot of ISIS.

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Tuesday arrested doctor for his alleged links with the banned terrorist outfit Islamic State Khorasan Province (ISKP) and offshoot of ISIS. He has been booked under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA). 28-year-old Abdur Rahman who is a doctor by profession was arrested from his residence in Basavangudi in Bengaluru. The NIA has said that he is in contact with the Islamic State. He was working as an Ophthalmologist at M.S. Ramaiah Medical College, Bangalore. During interrogation, Rahman confessed that he was conspiring with Jahanzaib Sami and other Syria-based ISIS operatives on secure messaging platforms to further ISIS activities, NIA said in a statement. Significantly, Rahman had visited an ISIS medical camp in Syria in early 2014 for treatment of ISIS terrorists and stayed with Islamic State operatives for 10 days and returned to India, the NIA said. "Rahman was in the process of developing a medical application for helping the injured ISIS cadres in the conflict-zones and a weaponry-related application for the benefit of ISIS fighters," the agency said. After arresting Rahman, NIA carried out searches at 3 premises belonging to him in Bengaluru with the assistance of Karnataka Police and seized digital devices, mobile phone, laptop containing incriminating material. They were also found to be in touch with Abdullah Basith, who was already lodged in Tihar jail in another NIA case (ISIS Abu Dabhi Module), the agency said, During the further investigation in the case, NIA arrested two more accused — Sadiya Anwar Sheikh and Nabeel Siddick Khatri — both residents of Pune, for being part of the conspiracy to "further the activities of ISIS/ISKP in India" and to "carry out subversive activities in the garb of anti-Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) protests". The arrested accused will be produced before the NIA Special Court at New Delhi and NIA remand will be sought for his custodial interrogation, the agency said. Further investigation in the case is continued, NIA said. (With inputs from agencies)

Bengaluru doctor making apps for ISIS arrested by NIA

India reported 64,531 fresh cases and 1092 deaths in the last 24-hours taking tally above 27 lakh-mark and toll above 52,000 on Wednesday.

According to the Union Health Ministry, the coronavirus tally in the country now stands at 27,67,273 including 6,76,514 active cases, 20,37,870 discharged/migrated and 52,889 deaths.

Key figures:&nbsp;

Total number of confirmed coronavirus cases: 27,67,273&nbsp; 
Active cases: 6,76,514&nbsp; 
Cured/discharged/migrated: 20,37,870&nbsp; 
Deaths: 52,889&nbsp; 
Fresh cases in 24 hours: 64,531&nbsp; 
One-day recoveries: 60,091&nbsp; 
One-day deaths: 1,092 
 
The number of global virus cases topped 22 million, with the US, Brazil and India accounting for more than half the total.&nbsp; 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

India reported 64,531 fresh cases and 1092 deaths in the last 24-hours taking tally above 27 lakh-mark and toll above 52,000 on Wednesday. According to the Union Health Ministry, the coronavirus tally in the country now stands at 27,67,273 including 6,76,514 active cases, 20,37,870 discharged/migrated and 52,889 deaths.

India reported 64,531 fresh cases and 1092 deaths in the last 24-hours taking tally above 27 lakh-mark and toll above 52,000 on Wednesday. According to the Union Health Ministry, the coronavirus tally in the country now stands at 27,67,273 including 6,76,514 active cases, 20,37,870 discharged/migrated and 52,889 deaths. Key figures: Total number of confirmed coronavirus cases: 27,67,273 Active cases: 6,76,514 Cured/discharged/migrated: 20,37,870 Deaths: 52,889 Fresh cases in 24 hours: 64,531 One-day recoveries: 60,091 One-day deaths: 1,092 The number of global virus cases topped 22 million, with the US, Brazil and India accounting for more than half the total. (With inputs from agencies)

Coronavirus in India: 64,531 fresh cases and 1092 deaths in the last 24-hours

India's foreign secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla meets Bangladesh's PM. Shringla conveyed Indian PM's special message to Sheikh Hasina. Proposal for the travel bubble & revival of the economy post COVID-19 were also discussed. Whereas Bangladesh's PM raised the issue of Rohingya's.

WION Fineprint: India's Foreign Sec Harsh Vardhan Shringla conveys PM'S special message

India had dispatched foreign secretary Harsh Shringla to Dhaka which had raised eyebrows.&nbsp;According to official accounts,&nbsp;Shringla's visit was meant to strengthen relationship between India and Bangladesh. However, there is the spectre of China over the engagement.

China reportedly wants to fund the construction of a dam on the Teesta river. After meeting Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, India's foreign secretary held talks with his counterpart in Beijing.

Bangladesh newspapers featured just one story on their front page - the visit by India’s foreign secretary to Dhaka and his interaction with the Prime Minister of Bangladesh.

Sheikh Hasina hasn’t met any other foreign dignitary in the last four months, neither has foreign secretary Harsh Shringla travelled outside India during the pandemic. So, the sudden meeting was closely watched both in India and Bangladesh.

Sources told WION on Tuesday that the foreign secretary delivered a message from Prime Minister Modi to Sheikh Hasina. India wanted to see how the two sides could take the relationship forward. On Wednesday, Shringla met with his Bangladeshi counterpart as they discussed ways to deepen cooperation in a post-coronavirus world including the possibility to open up an air bubble and priority access to the Oxford vaccine for Bangladesh.

New Delhi’s sudden effort to deepen ties with Dhaka was necessary. Shringla's sudden trip comes in the backdrop of a report which claims that China is ready to invest almost $1 billion in the Teesta river project which is a long-standing sticking point between India and Bangladesh.

Dhaka is demanding a greater share of the Teesta waters, specifically during December and May when the water supply to the fields of northern Bangladesh tends to dry up.

India and Bangladesh have failed to reach an agreement so far. The engagement this week signals a push as reports say&nbsp;India and Bangladesh have discussed a two-year roadmap for bilateral ties but both sides made no mention of the Teesta project or any other controversial issues.

The threat of the Dragon may have been contained in Bangladesh for now but it is far from over.

India had dispatched foreign secretary Harsh Shringla to Dhaka which had raised eyebrows. According to official accounts, Shringla's visit was meant to strengthen relationship between India and Bangladesh.

India had dispatched foreign secretary Harsh Shringla to Dhaka which had raised eyebrows. According to official accounts, Shringla's visit was meant to strengthen relationship between India and Bangladesh. However, there is the spectre of China over the engagement. China reportedly wants to fund the construction of a dam on the Teesta river. After meeting Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, India's foreign secretary held talks with his counterpart in Beijing. Bangladesh newspapers featured just one story on their front page - the visit by India’s foreign secretary to Dhaka and his interaction with the Prime Minister of Bangladesh. Sheikh Hasina hasn’t met any other foreign dignitary in the last four months, neither has foreign secretary Harsh Shringla travelled outside India during the pandemic. So, the sudden meeting was closely watched both in India and Bangladesh. Sources told WION on Tuesday that the foreign secretary delivered a message from Prime Minister Modi to Sheikh Hasina. India wanted to see how the two sides could take the relationship forward. On Wednesday, Shringla met with his Bangladeshi counterpart as they discussed ways to deepen cooperation in a post-coronavirus world including the possibility to open up an air bubble and priority access to the Oxford vaccine for Bangladesh. New Delhi’s sudden effort to deepen ties with Dhaka was necessary. Shringla's sudden trip comes in the backdrop of a report which claims that China is ready to invest almost $1 billion in the Teesta river project which is a long-standing sticking point between India and Bangladesh. Dhaka is demanding a greater share of the Teesta waters, specifically during December and May when the water supply to the fields of northern Bangladesh tends to dry up. India and Bangladesh have failed to reach an agreement so far. The engagement this week signals a push as reports say India and Bangladesh have discussed a two-year roadmap for bilateral ties but both sides made no mention of the Teesta project or any other controversial issues. The threat of the Dragon may have been contained in Bangladesh for now but it is far from over.

India's foreign secretary Harsh Shringla meets PM Sheikh Hasina as China eyes Teesta project

The Union Cabinet has approved the proposal for leasing out Jaipur, Guwahati and Thiruvananthapuram airports of Airports Authority of India (AAI) through Public Private Partnership (PPP). 
 
An official release said that the cabinet accorded its approval for leasing the three airports for operation, management and development to Adani Enterprises Ltd, who was declared as the successful bidder in global competitive bidding conducted by the Airports Authority of India. 
 
The lease is for a period of fifty years. The release said that the projects will bring efficiency in service delivery, expertise, enterprise and professionalism apart from harnessing the needed investments in the public sector.It said that the government had leased out the Airports Authority of India`s airports at Delhi and Mumbai on Public Private Partnership for Operation, Management and Development about a decade ago.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/new-age-of-air-travel-post-lockdown-to-witness-half-empty-aircraft-temperature-checks-at-airports-299929" hreflang="en">New age of air travel post-lockdown to witness half-empty aircraft, temperature checks at airports</a> 
 
The release said that these PPP experiments have helped create world-class airports and helped in the delivery of efficient and quality services to the airport passengers. The move has also helped AAI in enhancing its revenues and focusing on developing airports and air navigation infrastructure in the rest of the country, it said. 
 
The release said that revenue received by AAI from PPP partners enabled AAI to create infrastructure facilities in tier-two and tier-three cities and also to upgrade their airports to international standards. It said PPP airports in India are consistently ranked among the top 5 in their respective categories by the Airports Council International (ACI) in terms of Airport Service Quality (ASQ). 
 
"Therefore, Government decided to lease out more airports of AAI for Operation, Management and Development under PPP through Public Private Partnership Appraisal Committee (PPPAC)," the release said.The government has also constituted an Empowered Group of Secretaries (EGoS) to decide on any issue falling beyond the scope of PPPAC."PPPAC approved the transaction documents. The entire bidding process was carried out under the supervision and directions of EGoS which comprised of representatives of NITI Aayog, Department of Expenditure and Department of Economic Affairs (DEA) of Ministry of Finance (MoF)," the release said. 
 
Airports Authority of India released Request for Proposal in December 2018 through global competitive bidding wherein per passenger fee is the bidding parameter.The technical February last year and the financial bids of the qualified bidders were opened in February last year."Adani Enterprises Ltd. has won all the bids by quoting highest per passenger fee for all the three airports - Jaipur, Guwahati and Thiruvanathapuram," the release said.

The Union Cabinet has approved the proposal for leasing out Jaipur, Guwahati and Thiruvananthapuram airports of Airports Authority of India (AAI) through Public Private Partnership (PPP).

The Union Cabinet has approved the proposal for leasing out Jaipur, Guwahati and Thiruvananthapuram airports of Airports Authority of India (AAI) through Public Private Partnership (PPP). An official release said that the cabinet accorded its approval for leasing the three airports for operation, management and development to Adani Enterprises Ltd, who was declared as the successful bidder in global competitive bidding conducted by the Airports Authority of India. The lease is for a period of fifty years. The release said that the projects will bring efficiency in service delivery, expertise, enterprise and professionalism apart from harnessing the needed investments in the public sector.It said that the government had leased out the Airports Authority of India`s airports at Delhi and Mumbai on Public Private Partnership for Operation, Management and Development about a decade ago. Also read: New age of air travel post-lockdown to witness half-empty aircraft, temperature checks at airports The release said that these PPP experiments have helped create world-class airports and helped in the delivery of efficient and quality services to the airport passengers. The move has also helped AAI in enhancing its revenues and focusing on developing airports and air navigation infrastructure in the rest of the country, it said. The release said that revenue received by AAI from PPP partners enabled AAI to create infrastructure facilities in tier-two and tier-three cities and also to upgrade their airports to international standards. It said PPP airports in India are consistently ranked among the top 5 in their respective categories by the Airports Council International (ACI) in terms of Airport Service Quality (ASQ). "Therefore, Government decided to lease out more airports of AAI for Operation, Management and Development under PPP through Public Private Partnership Appraisal Committee (PPPAC)," the release said.The government has also constituted an Empowered Group of Secretaries (EGoS) to decide on any issue falling beyond the scope of PPPAC."PPPAC approved the transaction documents. The entire bidding process was carried out under the supervision and directions of EGoS which comprised of representatives of NITI Aayog, Department of Expenditure and Department of Economic Affairs (DEA) of Ministry of Finance (MoF)," the release said. Airports Authority of India released Request for Proposal in December 2018 through global competitive bidding wherein per passenger fee is the bidding parameter.The technical February last year and the financial bids of the qualified bidders were opened in February last year."Adani Enterprises Ltd. has won all the bids by quoting highest per passenger fee for all the three airports - Jaipur, Guwahati and Thiruvanathapuram," the release said.

Cabinet approves proposal for leasing out Jaipur, Guwahati and Thiruvananthapuram airports through PPP

Hailing the Supreme Court order on a CBI probe in actor Sushant Singh Rajput's death case as a "triumph of justice", the BJP and its allies expressed confidence on Wednesday that the central agency will bring out the truth. 
 
The ruling Congress and Shiv Sena in Maharashtra defended the Mumbai Police and alleged that the Nitish Kumar-led Bihar government is trying to take political advantage of the issue in view of the upcoming assembly polls. The Maharashtra Government had opposed an FIR by the Bihar police and a CBI probe in the sensational case. 
 
However, JD(U) president and Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar asserted that the Supreme Court order has vindicated his government, and asserted that its action had nothing to do with politics or elections.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/india-news/welcome-supreme-courts-decision-to-order-cbi-probe-in-sushants-case-says-bihar-deputy-cm-321630" hreflang="en">Welcome Supreme Court's decision to order CBI probe in Sushant's case, says Bihar Deputy CM</a> 
 
Soon after the apex court's verdict, senior BJP leader and Union Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad tweeted, "Justice triumphs! The soul of late actor Sushant Singh Rajput will surely now rest in peace with the assurance of a fair investigation by CBI on the FIR filed in Patna by Bihar Police whose request for transfer of the case to CBI has been validated by the Supreme Court." 
 
He also praised the "exemplary courage" shown by the actor's family and the "overpowering desire of the people of India" to see justice in the case and called it a new milestone. 
 
Congress spokesperson Shaktisinh Gohil said the CBI should now carry out a proper probe into the actor's death, and asserted that justice will not be delivered by the BJP-JD(U), which are in power in Bihar, making statements for "political gains". 
 
The Supreme Court on Wednesday upheld the transfer of the FIR, lodged at Patna against actress Rhea Chakraborty and others for allegedly abetting the suicide of actor Sushant Singh Rajput, to the CBI. 
 
The apex court said that the Bihar government is competent to transfer the case to the CBI for investigation. 
Rajput, 34, was found hanging from the ceiling of his apartment in suburban Bandra in Mumbai on June 14. 
 
The row over his death has acquired political dimensions in Bihar, his home state, ahead of the assembly polls there with almost all major parties, including the opposition RJD, backing the demand for a CBI probe. 
The BJP and its allies have been trying to put their rivals, including the Congress, on the defensive over the issue.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/entertainment/bollywood/news-Sushant-Singh-Rajput-case-Supreme-Court-orders-for-a-CBI-probe-321611" hreflang="en">Sushant Singh Rajput case: Supreme Court orders for a CBI probe</a> 
 
"With today's apex court order, it has become amply clear that whatever was done in Bihar was in accordance with the law and constitutional norms. And I am quite hopeful that justice will now be done in the case," Chief Minister Nitish Kumar said. 
 
BJP spokesperson Shahnawaz Hussain alleged that the Maharashtra government had been "stalling" the investigation and expressed confidence that the truth will now be brought out. 
Congress leader Gohil said the apex court in its ruling has stated that records of the case produced before it do not "prima facie suggest any wrongdoing by the Mumbai Police" and demanded that the BJP leaders apologise to the force. 
 
"I demand that the CBI should fulfill its duty and an investigation is completed at the earliest," he said at an online media briefing. 
 
Gohil said the Congress has repeatedly demanded that there should be a proper investigation in the case and the bereaved family should get justice. 
 
"Justice will not be delivered by the statements being made by BJP-JDU for political gains in view of the assembly polls. There should be a proper investigation in the case," he said. 
 
"The Mumbai police, considered among the good police forces in the world, was abused by the BJP people just because they were opposed to the Congress and Shiv Sena," the Rajya Sabha MP said. 
 
Former Maharashtra chief minister and senior BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis, who had been pushing for a CBI probe, said the Maharashtra government needs to introspect on the way it handled the case. 
 
Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut told reporters that "doubting" the integrity of Mumbai Police was a "conspiracy" and alleged that politicians maligned the force. He, however, did not take any name. 
Raut said the Mumbai Police had probed the case "in all fairness". 
 
Asked if the verdict was a setback to the Shiv Sena-led Maharashtra government, Raut said, "Such things do happen in legal battles." 
 
On whether the state government will challenge the verdict, Raut said it will respond after getting a copy of the judgement. 
 
Maharashtra Home Minister and NCP leader Anil Deshmukh also said he will comment only after studying the apex court order. 
 
Lok Janshakti Party president Chirag Paswan, who was an early votary of a CBI probe in the matter, said the SC verdict has "respected" the sentiments of crores of people. 
 
In a tweet, he expressed confidence that the CBI will not only bring out the truth but also "expose" those who tried to mislead the probe in the case of alleged suicide.

Hailing the Supreme Court order on a CBI probe in actor Sushant Singh Rajput's death case as a "triumph of justice", the BJP and its allies expressed confidence on Wednesday that the central agency will bring out the truth.

Hailing the Supreme Court order on a CBI probe in actor Sushant Singh Rajput's death case as a "triumph of justice", the BJP and its allies expressed confidence on Wednesday that the central agency will bring out the truth. The ruling Congress and Shiv Sena in Maharashtra defended the Mumbai Police and alleged that the Nitish Kumar-led Bihar government is trying to take political advantage of the issue in view of the upcoming assembly polls. The Maharashtra Government had opposed an FIR by the Bihar police and a CBI probe in the sensational case. However, JD(U) president and Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar asserted that the Supreme Court order has vindicated his government, and asserted that its action had nothing to do with politics or elections. Also read: Welcome Supreme Court's decision to order CBI probe in Sushant's case, says Bihar Deputy CM Soon after the apex court's verdict, senior BJP leader and Union Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad tweeted, "Justice triumphs! The soul of late actor Sushant Singh Rajput will surely now rest in peace with the assurance of a fair investigation by CBI on the FIR filed in Patna by Bihar Police whose request for transfer of the case to CBI has been validated by the Supreme Court." He also praised the "exemplary courage" shown by the actor's family and the "overpowering desire of the people of India" to see justice in the case and called it a new milestone. Congress spokesperson Shaktisinh Gohil said the CBI should now carry out a proper probe into the actor's death, and asserted that justice will not be delivered by the BJP-JD(U), which are in power in Bihar, making statements for "political gains". The Supreme Court on Wednesday upheld the transfer of the FIR, lodged at Patna against actress Rhea Chakraborty and others for allegedly abetting the suicide of actor Sushant Singh Rajput, to the CBI. The apex court said that the Bihar government is competent to transfer the case to the CBI for investigation. Rajput, 34, was found hanging from the ceiling of his apartment in suburban Bandra in Mumbai on June 14. The row over his death has acquired political dimensions in Bihar, his home state, ahead of the assembly polls there with almost all major parties, including the opposition RJD, backing the demand for a CBI probe. The BJP and its allies have been trying to put their rivals, including the Congress, on the defensive over the issue. Also read: Sushant Singh Rajput case: Supreme Court orders for a CBI probe "With today's apex court order, it has become amply clear that whatever was done in Bihar was in accordance with the law and constitutional norms. And I am quite hopeful that justice will now be done in the case," Chief Minister Nitish Kumar said. BJP spokesperson Shahnawaz Hussain alleged that the Maharashtra government had been "stalling" the investigation and expressed confidence that the truth will now be brought out. Congress leader Gohil said the apex court in its ruling has stated that records of the case produced before it do not "prima facie suggest any wrongdoing by the Mumbai Police" and demanded that the BJP leaders apologise to the force. "I demand that the CBI should fulfill its duty and an investigation is completed at the earliest," he said at an online media briefing. Gohil said the Congress has repeatedly demanded that there should be a proper investigation in the case and the bereaved family should get justice. "Justice will not be delivered by the statements being made by BJP-JDU for political gains in view of the assembly polls. There should be a proper investigation in the case," he said. "The Mumbai police, considered among the good police forces in the world, was abused by the BJP people just because they were opposed to the Congress and Shiv Sena," the Rajya Sabha MP said. Former Maharashtra chief minister and senior BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis, who had been pushing for a CBI probe, said the Maharashtra government needs to introspect on the way it handled the case. Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut told reporters that "doubting" the integrity of Mumbai Police was a "conspiracy" and alleged that politicians maligned the force. He, however, did not take any name. Raut said the Mumbai Police had probed the case "in all fairness". Asked if the verdict was a setback to the Shiv Sena-led Maharashtra government, Raut said, "Such things do happen in legal battles." On whether the state government will challenge the verdict, Raut said it will respond after getting a copy of the judgement. Maharashtra Home Minister and NCP leader Anil Deshmukh also said he will comment only after studying the apex court order. Lok Janshakti Party president Chirag Paswan, who was an early votary of a CBI probe in the matter, said the SC verdict has "respected" the sentiments of crores of people. In a tweet, he expressed confidence that the CBI will not only bring out the truth but also "expose" those who tried to mislead the probe in the case of alleged suicide.

BJP, allies welcome Supreme Court verdict in Sushant Singh Rajput case

Amid&nbsp;coup in the west&nbsp;African country of Mali, the Indian mission in Mali has advised caution for Indian nationals.

Indian envoy to Mali Anjani Kumar To WION, "All embassy members are at home and safe. We sent them back after first indication of disturbance. Requested all Indians to stay home in view of developments."

Mali's President Ibrahim Boubacar Keïta was removed after a mutiny by soldiers. The prime minister of the country has also been removed from office by the soldiers.&nbsp;

Around 250-300 Indians are present in the country. Most of them are in the retail business, mining, power and&nbsp;steel. &nbsp;

Ousted Malian President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita had visited India twice, once&nbsp;in 2018 to attend the Founding Conference of International Solar Alliance (ISA) and before that in 2015 to take part in the India-Africa Summit.&nbsp;

Amid coup in the west African country of Mali, the Indian mission in Mali has advised caution for Indian nationals. Indian envoy to Mali Anjani Kumar To WION, "All embassy members are at home and safe.

Amid coup in the west African country of Mali, the Indian mission in Mali has advised caution for Indian nationals. Indian envoy to Mali Anjani Kumar To WION, "All embassy members are at home and safe. We sent them back after first indication of disturbance. Requested all Indians to stay home in view of developments." Mali's President Ibrahim Boubacar Keïta was removed after a mutiny by soldiers. The prime minister of the country has also been removed from office by the soldiers. Around 250-300 Indians are present in the country. Most of them are in the retail business, mining, power and steel. Ousted Malian President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita had visited India twice, once in 2018 to attend the Founding Conference of International Solar Alliance (ISA) and before that in 2015 to take part in the India-Africa Summit.

Indian mission in Mali advises caution for Indian citizens amid coup

China is giving Dhaka a loan of $1 billion for the Teesta river management project.

Teesta is the fourth-largest trans-boundary river in Bangladesh and flows through five northern districts - Gaibandha, Kurigram, 
Lalmonirhat, Nilphamari and Rangpur.

At least 21 million people in Bangladesh are dependant on the Teesta river. Now, China is helping Bangladesh with the management project for the river with work expected to start in December.&nbsp;Reports say it was Bangladesh that asked China for $983 million loan.

The river, however, in no way concerns China. Beijing is concerned with just two things - it gets to debt-trap Bangladesh and it is an opportunity for China to control one of India's allies.

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Teesta originates in India in Tsolamo. The river flows through Sikkim and West Bengal before entering Bangladesh. It is one of the 54 rivers that enter Bangladesh from India.

The Teesta has been a source of discord between the two countries with negotiations on water sharing dating back to 1951 when Bangladesh was East Pakistan.

Seven decades and a new country later, the negotiations have not quite reached a fruitful end. The negotiations were expedited in 2009 but the water-sharing deal is still pending. Now Bangladesh claims that because of a particular dam on the Indian side the flow of the river is reduced during winters which lead to two-month-long water crisis every year.

Bangladesh has painted India in a bad light and for China it spells an opportunity. It is the first time China is getting involved in a river management project in Bangladesh.&nbsp;

The Teesta river crisis is China's opportunity to test waters and an opportunity to whip up an anti-India sentiment, it is almost Nepal deja vu and the bad news is that so far it appears to be working.

New Delhi has sent its foreign secretary to Bangladesh Harsh Vardhan Shringla on a day-long visit to Dhaka. India's foreign secretary is expected to call on Prime minister Sheikh Hasina and foreign minister Abdul Momen.

India will also be handing over around 10 broad gauge diesel locomotives to Dhaka.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, sources say the Teesta project is just one of the many projects that China is funding in Bangladesh. There are at least nine others with the total amount of loan reportedly at $6 billion. It is over and above the $22 billion Chinese loans that Bangladesh has already received, according to Bangladesh media.

China is giving Dhaka a loan of $1 billion for the Teesta river management project. Teesta is the fourth-largest trans-boundary river in Bangladesh and flows through five northern districts - Gaibandha, Kurigram, Lalmonirhat, Nilphamari and Rangpur.

China is giving Dhaka a loan of $1 billion for the Teesta river management project. Teesta is the fourth-largest trans-boundary river in Bangladesh and flows through five northern districts - Gaibandha, Kurigram, Lalmonirhat, Nilphamari and Rangpur. At least 21 million people in Bangladesh are dependant on the Teesta river. Now, China is helping Bangladesh with the management project for the river with work expected to start in December. Reports say it was Bangladesh that asked China for $983 million loan. The river, however, in no way concerns China. Beijing is concerned with just two things - it gets to debt-trap Bangladesh and it is an opportunity for China to control one of India's allies. Teesta originates in India in Tsolamo. The river flows through Sikkim and West Bengal before entering Bangladesh. It is one of the 54 rivers that enter Bangladesh from India. The Teesta has been a source of discord between the two countries with negotiations on water sharing dating back to 1951 when Bangladesh was East Pakistan. Seven decades and a new country later, the negotiations have not quite reached a fruitful end. The negotiations were expedited in 2009 but the water-sharing deal is still pending. Now Bangladesh claims that because of a particular dam on the Indian side the flow of the river is reduced during winters which lead to two-month-long water crisis every year. Bangladesh has painted India in a bad light and for China it spells an opportunity. It is the first time China is getting involved in a river management project in Bangladesh. The Teesta river crisis is China's opportunity to test waters and an opportunity to whip up an anti-India sentiment, it is almost Nepal deja vu and the bad news is that so far it appears to be working. New Delhi has sent its foreign secretary to Bangladesh Harsh Vardhan Shringla on a day-long visit to Dhaka. India's foreign secretary is expected to call on Prime minister Sheikh Hasina and foreign minister Abdul Momen. India will also be handing over around 10 broad gauge diesel locomotives to Dhaka. Meanwhile, sources say the Teesta project is just one of the many projects that China is funding in Bangladesh. There are at least nine others with the total amount of loan reportedly at $6 billion. It is over and above the $22 billion Chinese loans that Bangladesh has already received, according to Bangladesh media.

Now, China gives loan to Bangladesh for Teesta river project

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